Pretreatment device and inspection system equipped with same

Abstract

In a pretreatment device, a body 20 is equipped with a sample container holding section 22a holding a plurality of sample containers 34 and a mixing container holding section 22b holding a plurality of mixing containers 36. A first rack 25 is detachable from the sample container holding section 22a and can integrally hold a preset number of the sample containers 34. A second rack 27 is detachable from the mixing container holding section 22b and can integrally hold the aforesaid preset number of the mixing containers 36. The arrangement of the preset number of the sample containers 34 held by the first rack 27 coincides with the arrangement of the preset number of the mixing containers 36 held by the second rack 27.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a pretreatment device capable of dispensing and mixing liquid samples from a plurality of sample containers, each containing a liquid sample, into a mixing container, and to an inspection system equipped with the same. [Background technology]

[0002] For example, in a genetic analyzer such as that disclosed in Patent Document 1 below, liquid is dispensed by moving a nozzle having a dispensing tip attached to the tip. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2007-175004 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] Some testing devices, such as genetic analyzers, can perform testing using a so-called pool testing method by dispensing and mixing liquid samples from multiple sample containers, each of which contains a liquid sample, into a mixing container. When testing is performed using this type of testing device, liquid samples are dispensed into the mixing container from multiple sample containers in advance in a pretreatment device, and the mixing container is set in the testing device.

[0005] The testing device performs a PCR test on the liquid sample mixed in the mixing container, and if the result is negative, it can confirm at once that all the liquid samples in each mixed sample container are negative, which can improve the efficiency of the test and reduce the cost of the test.

[0006] On the other hand, if the result of a PCR test on the liquid sample mixed in the mixing container is positive, it is possible to identify which sample was positive by setting the multiple sample containers before mixing in a testing device and testing the liquid sample (specimen) in each sample container individually. However, the task of setting each sample container individually in the testing device is cumbersome, and as a result, there is a risk of mixing up the samples.

[0007] The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned circumstances, and has an object to provide a pretreatment device that allows easy handling of a plurality of sample containers or mixing containers, and an inspection system equipped with the same. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] A first aspect of the present invention is a pretreatment device capable of dispensing and mixing liquid samples from a plurality of sample containers, each of which contains a liquid sample, into a mixing container, the pretreatment device comprising a main body, a sample container rack, and a mixing container rack. The main body is formed with a sample container holding section for holding a plurality of sample containers, and a mixing container holding section for holding a plurality of mixing containers. The sample container rack is detachable from the sample container holding section, and is capable of integrally holding a predetermined number of sample containers. The mixing container rack is detachable from the mixing container holding section, and is capable of integrally holding the predetermined number of mixing containers. The arrangement of the predetermined number of sample containers held in the sample container rack matches the arrangement of the predetermined number of mixing containers held in the mixing container rack.

[0009] A second aspect of the present invention is an inspection system including the pretreatment device, a memory unit, and an inspection device. The predetermined number of sample container racks can be attached and detached to the sample container holding unit, and each mixing container in the mixing container rack attached to the mixing container holding unit is positioned on each straight line on which the predetermined number of sample containers are arranged in each sample container rack attached to the sample container holding unit. The memory unit stores information about each mixing container in the mixing container rack and information about each sample container located on the same straight line as each mixing container in association with each other as sample information. The inspection device reads out the sample information from the memory unit. Effect of the Invention

[0010] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a pretreatment device that allows easy handling of a plurality of sample containers or mixing containers, and an inspection system equipped with the same. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of an inspection system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view showing a configuration example of a portion of the pretreatment device according to the present embodiment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a schematic plan view showing a configuration example of a table. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing an internal configuration of a pretreatment device. [Diagram 5] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a configuration example of a container. [Figure 6] FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing a configuration example of a first rack. [Figure 7] FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing a configuration example of a handle member. [Figure 8] FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing a configuration example of a second rack. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of an electrical configuration of a user terminal. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a display screen on a display unit of a user terminal. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0012] 1. Overview of the inspection system 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of an inspection system 10 according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the inspection system 10 includes a preprocessing device 12, an inspection device 14, and a user terminal 16.

[0013] The pretreatment device 12 is a device for pretreating a liquid by aspirating and discharging the liquid and performing dispensing and stirring operations. In this embodiment, a series of dispensing processes is performed by performing the dispensing operation at least once. Examples of the liquid used for the pretreatment include a liquid sample or a liquid reagent. The pretreatment device 12 in this embodiment is capable of aspirating and discharging the liquid via a tip 40 (see FIG. 3).

[0014] The testing device 14 is a device for testing the liquid after the pretreatment by the pretreatment device 12. One example of the test is a PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) test, but is not limited to this. The testing device 14 is also capable of aspirating and discharging the liquid via the tip 40, similar to the pretreatment device 12.

[0015] The user terminal 16 is a device including at least a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a communication unit for communicating with the outside, a non-volatile memory, and the like, and is a desktop PC, a notebook (laptop) PC, a tablet PC, or the like.

[0016] The preprocessing device 12, the inspection device 14, and the user terminal 16 are connected via a network 18. The network 18 here may be a LAN (Local Area Network), the Internet, etc. Also, the preprocessing device 12, the inspection device 14, and the user terminal 16 may be directly connected.

[0017] 2. Overall configuration of pretreatment device 2 is an exploded perspective view showing a configuration example of a portion of the pretreatment device 12 according to this embodiment. The pretreatment device 12 includes a main body 20 and a table 21. The main body 20 is configured as a hollow housing whose length in the width direction (X direction) is shorter than its length in the depth direction (Y direction). The main body 20 has an elongated shape whose length in the height direction (Z direction perpendicular to the X direction and Y direction) is longer than its length in the X direction. The table 21 includes a container holding part 22 and a first tip holding part 24. A container 23 is detachably attached to the table 21, and the container holding part 22 is set in the container 23.

[0018] Furthermore, the pretreatment device 12 is equipped with a second tip holding section 26. The second tip holding section 26 is for holding used tips 40. In Fig. 2, the second tip holding section 26 is illustrated in a state where it is separated from the table 21, but this second tip holding section 26 is used in a state where it is accommodated in the space 28 of the table 21.

[0019] 2, the table 21 is shown in a state separated from the main body 20, but the table 21 is built into the space 30 of the main body 20. Furthermore, an opening 32 is provided in the wall that defines the space 30.

[0020] The second tip holding part 26 can be removed from and attached to the table 21 through the opening 32. In addition, as described above, the table 21 is built into the main body 20, and therefore it can also be said that the second tip holding part 26 can be removed from and attached to the main body 20.

[0021] Fig. 3 is a schematic plan view showing an example of the configuration of the table 21. Fig. 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the internal configuration of the pretreatment device 12. As shown in Figs. 3 and 4, the container holding section 22 holds a plurality of containers that contain liquids used in pretreatment. The container holding section 22 also includes a sample container holding section 22a and a mixing container holding section 22b. That is, the sample container holding section 22a and the mixing container holding section 22b are formed within the main body 20 of the pretreatment device 12.

[0022] The sample container holder 22a holds a plurality of sample containers 34 for containing liquid samples. The liquid sample is, for example, a specimen sample collected from a living body, and examples thereof include saliva and blood. The mixing container holder 22b holds a plurality of mixing containers 36 for mixing liquid samples dispensed from the plurality of sample containers 34. The first tip holder 24 holds a plurality of tips 40. During a dispensing operation, the tip 40 held by the first tip holder 24 is attached to the tip attachment / detachment part 48b (see FIG. 4). The mixing container 36 is an example of a destination for discharging the liquid aspirated into the tip 40.

[0023] In addition, a cover member 42 is provided on the table 21. This cover member 42 is a thin plate-like member, and covers the space 28 within the table 21. In other words, when the second tip holding portion 26 is attached to the table 21, the cover member 42 covers the second tip holding portion 26.

[0024] The cover member 42 has a through hole 42a. A plurality of hook portions 42b for hooking the tip 40 passing through the through hole 42a are formed on the cover member 42. The width of the hook portions 42b in the Y direction is larger than the outer diameter of the lower end of the tip detachment portion 48b and smaller than the outer diameter of the upper end of the tip 40.

[0025] A tip (used tip) 40 after being used in a dispensing operation can be removed from tip detachment part 48b and held in second tip holding part 26 by displacing tip detachment part 48b so that its upper end surface is hooked onto hook part 42b. A new tip 40 is attached to tip detachment part 48b from first tip holding part 24 every time a dispensing operation is performed, and after use it is held in second tip holding part 26. Second tip holding part 26 can hold a plurality of used tips 40.

[0026] In this embodiment, a first rack 25 detachable from the sample container holding section 22a and a second rack 27 detachable from the mixing container holding section 22b are used. The first rack 25 is a sample container rack capable of integrally holding a predetermined number of sample containers 34. The second rack 27 is a mixing container rack capable of integrally holding a predetermined number of mixing containers 36. The number of sample containers 34 that the first rack 25 can hold is equal to the number of mixing containers 36 that the second rack 27 can hold. The sample containers 34 and the mixing containers 36 may or may not have the same outer diameter, but in this embodiment, they have the same cylindrical shape with a bottom.

[0027] The mixing container holding section 22b can be fitted with one second rack 27. In contrast, the sample container holding section 22a can be fitted with a plurality of first racks 25. Specifically, it is preferable that the same number of first racks 25 as the number of mixing containers 36 that can be held in the second rack 27 or more can be detachably attached to the sample container holding section 22a.

[0028] In this embodiment, in addition to the first racks 25a in the same number as the number of mixing containers 36 that can be held in the second rack 27, one additional first rack 25b can be attached to and detached from the sample container holding section 22a. However, the additional first rack 25b is not limited to one, and may be two or more. Also, a configuration may be adopted in which the first racks 25 in the same number as the number of mixing containers 36 that can be held in the second rack 27 are attachable to and detachable from the sample container holding section 22a without providing the additional first rack 25b.

[0029] Each first rack 25 is formed with a plurality of openings 251 for accommodating one sample container 34 each. In this example, four openings 251 are formed and arranged at equal intervals in a straight line. This allows each first rack 25 to hold four sample containers 34 arranged in a straight line. However, the number of sample containers 34 that can be held in each first rack 25 is not limited to four, and may be three or less, or five or more. Furthermore, each first rack 25 may be configured to hold the sample containers 34 in an arrangement other than in a straight line.

[0030] On the other hand, the second rack 27 is formed with openings 271 for accommodating the mixing containers 36 one by one. In this example, four openings 271 are formed in a straight line at equal intervals. This allows the second rack 27 to hold four mixing containers 36 in a straight line. However, the number of mixing containers 36 that can be held in the second rack 27 is not limited to four, and may be three or less, or five or more. In addition, the second rack 27 may be configured to hold the mixing containers 36 in an arrangement other than in a straight line.

[0031] In this embodiment, the openings 251 of the first rack 25 and the openings 271 of the second rack 27 have the same shape and are formed in a circular shape slightly larger than the sample containers 34 and the mixing containers 36. The intervals between the openings 251 in the first rack 25 and the intervals between the openings 271 in the second rack 27 match. That is, the positional relationship between the openings 251 in the first rack 25 and the positional relationship between the openings 271 in the second rack 27 match. Therefore, it can be said that the arrangement of the multiple sample containers 34 held in the first rack 25 matches the arrangement of the multiple mixing containers 36 held in the second rack 27. Note that "match" here means "approximately match", and even if there is a slight difference (deviation) in the arrangement that can be said to be matched, it is included in the concept of "match".

[0032] As shown in Fig. 3, when the second rack 27 is attached to the mixing container holding section 22b, the multiple mixing containers 36 held by the second rack 27 are aligned in a straight line in the X direction. In contrast, when the first rack 25a is attached to the sample container holding section 22a, the multiple sample containers 34 held by the first rack 25a are aligned in a straight line in the Y direction. Also, one mixing container 36 in the second rack 27 is located on the straight line (extension in the Y direction) on which the multiple sample containers 34 are aligned in each first rack 25a. That is, each mixing container 36 held by the second rack 27 is located on each straight line on which the multiple sample containers 34 are aligned in each first rack 25a.

[0033] On the other hand, when the additional first rack 25b is attached to the sample container holder 22a, the multiple sample containers 34 held in the first rack 25b are aligned in a straight line in the X direction. That is, the direction in which the multiple sample containers 34 are aligned in the additional first rack 25b is parallel to the direction in which the multiple mixing containers 36 are aligned in the second rack 27. Also, each sample container 34 in the additional first rack 25b is located on each straight line (extension in the Y direction) in which the multiple sample containers 34 are aligned in each first rack 25a.

[0034] As a result, in this embodiment, the sample container holding section 22a can hold a total of 20 sample containers 34 in four columns in the X direction and five rows in the Y direction. Each sample container 34 contains a sample collected from a different living organism. Furthermore, the first tip holding section 24 can hold the same number of tips 40 as the sample containers 34 (a total of 20 tips, four columns in the X direction and five rows in the Y direction). The mixing container holding section 22b can hold four mixing containers 36 lined up in the X direction. However, the numbers of sample containers 34, mixing containers 36, and tips 40 are not limited to the above numbers.

[0035] Each mixing container 36 corresponds to five sample containers 34 and five tips 40 arranged in the same row in the X direction. Liquid samples in the sample containers 34 arranged in the same row are dispensed into each mixing container 36 using the tips 40 arranged in the same row. This allows the liquid samples in the multiple sample containers 34 arranged in the same row to be mixed in each mixing container 36.

[0036] Specifically, when mixing liquid samples in each sample container 34 in the mixing container 36 in the first row in the X direction, first, the tip 40 held in the first row of the first column in the first tip holder 24 is attached to the tip detachment part 48b. Then, the liquid sample in the sample container 34 held in the first row of the first column in the sample container holder 22a is aspirated into the tip 40, and then the liquid sample in the tip 40 is discharged into the mixing container 36 held in the first row in the mixing container holder 22b. After the liquid sample is discharged, the used tip 40 is removed and held in the second tip holder 26.

[0037] Next, the tip 40 held in the second row of the first column in the first tip holder 24 is attached to the tip attachment / detachment section 48b. Then, after the liquid sample in the sample container 34 held in the second row of the first column in the sample container holder 22a is aspirated into the tip 40, the liquid sample in the tip 40 is discharged into the mixing container 36 held in the first column in the mixing container holder 22b. This allows the liquid sample already contained in the mixing container 36 to be mixed with the liquid sample discharged from the tip 40. After the liquid sample is discharged, the used tip 40 is removed and held in the second tip holder 26.

[0038] Thereafter, the tips 40 held in each row of the first column in the first tip holder 24 are similarly attached to the tip attachment / detachment unit 48b, and the liquid samples in the sample containers 34 held in each row of the first column in the sample container holder 22a are sequentially aspirated into the tips 40, and then discharged into the mixing container 36 held in the first column in the mixing container holder 22b. By repeating such an operation, the liquid samples in the sample containers 34 held in each row of the first column in the sample container holder 22a are collected and mixed in the mixing container 36 in the first column in the mixing container holder 22b. The mixing is performed by repeatedly aspirating and discharging the liquid sample into the tip 40. Alternatively, a method such as shaking the container may be used. By performing the dispensing operation in the same manner for the other columns (second to fourth columns), the liquid samples dispensed from the multiple sample containers 34 in each column can be mixed in the mixing container 36.

[0039] This dispensing method is used in a test called the pool test. In the pool test, a PCR test is performed on the liquid sample mixed in the mixing container 36, and if the result is negative, it is possible to confirm at once that all the liquid samples in the mixed sample containers 34 are negative. This makes it possible to improve the efficiency of the test and reduce the cost of the test.

[0040] 4, the pretreatment device 12 includes an electrically controllable dispensing mechanism 48. The dispensing mechanism 48 is a mechanism for aspirating and dispensing liquid, and includes a syringe 48a, a tip detachment part 48b, and a plunger 48c. The syringe 48a is a cylindrical member, into which the plunger 48c is slidably inserted.

[0041] The tip detachment part 48b is a cylindrical member having a smaller diameter than the syringe 48a, and allows the tip 40 to be detached. For example, a thin and long cylindrical nozzle communicating with the inside of the syringe 48a is used as the tip detachment part 48b. The tip 40 is formed in a thin and long cylindrical shape that gradually tapers toward the lower end, and the lower end of the tip detachment part 48b is pressed into the upper end of the tip detachment part 48b, thereby attaching the tip 40 to the tip detachment part 48b.

[0042] Although not shown, the dispensing mechanism 48 includes an actuator such as a motor, a connecting member connected to the plunger 48c, and a transmission mechanism that transmits the driving force of the actuator to the connecting member as a movement in the Z direction.

[0043] The dispensing mechanism 48 can aspirate and discharge an amount of liquid according to the stroke amount of the plunger 48c. Using the dispensing mechanism 48, dispensing operation can be performed by aspirating and discharging liquid in a container (sample container 34) held in the container holding unit 22. Note that the above-mentioned dispensing mechanism 48 is merely an example, and the configuration of the dispensing mechanism 48 is not particularly limited as long as it can aspirate and discharge liquid.

[0044] 4, the pretreatment device 12 includes an electrically controllable support mechanism 50. The support mechanism 50 is a mechanism for displaceably supporting the dispensing mechanism 48, and includes an actuator such as a motor, a support member 50a for supporting components constituting the dispensing mechanism 48, and a transmission mechanism for transmitting the driving force of the actuator to the support member 50a as a movement in the Z direction.

[0045] The support mechanism 50 can support the dispensing mechanism 48 and displace it in the Z direction. That is, the support mechanism 50 can support the tip attachment / detachment part 48b and displace it in the Z direction. Note that the above-mentioned support mechanism 50 is merely an example, and the configuration of the support mechanism 50 is not particularly limited as long as it can support the tip attachment / detachment part 48b and the like and displace it in the Z direction. The support mechanism 50 may also be configured to displace the dispensing mechanism 48 in the horizontal direction (XY direction).

[0046] 4, the pre-processing device 12 further includes an electrically controllable holding mechanism 52. The holding mechanism 52 is a mechanism for displaceably holding the table 21, and includes an actuator such as a motor, a holding member for holding the table 21, etc. The holding mechanism 52 also includes a transmission mechanism for transmitting the driving force of the actuator to the holding member as movement in the X and Y directions.

[0047] The holding mechanism 52 can hold the table 21 and displace it in the horizontal direction. That is, the holding mechanism 52 can hold the container holding part 22 and displace the container holding part 22 in the horizontal direction to perform alignment with the dispensing mechanism 48. This makes it possible to align the tip 40 held by the first tip holding part 24 below the tip detachment part 48b, or to align the sample container 34 held by the sample container holding part 22a or the mixing container 36 held by the mixing container holding part 22b below the tip 40 attached to the tip detachment part 48b.

[0048] The above-described holding mechanism 52 is merely an example, and the configuration of the table 21 is not particularly limited as long as the table 21 can be displaced in the horizontal direction while being held. The holding mechanism 52 may be configured to displace the table 21 in the Z direction as well.

[0049] 3. Configuring the container 5 is a perspective view showing a configuration example of the container 23. The container 23 is a box-shaped member with an open top, and is formed with a first storage section 231 that stores the first rack 25 and a second storage section 232 that stores the second rack 27. The first rack 25 can be inserted and removed from the first storage section 231 from above, and the second rack 27 can be inserted and removed from the second storage section 232 from above.

[0050] The first storage section 231 includes four first storage sections 231a that store the first racks 25a, and one first storage section 231b that stores an additional first rack 25b. The four first storage sections 231a are partitioned by partition walls 233. Each partition wall 233 is a thin plate-like member, and can store the four first racks 25a in the first storage section 231a in a state where they are close to each other.

[0051] A part of the wall surface constituting the second accommodating section 232 is formed so as to extend upward, thereby constituting a guide section 234. When the second rack 27 is accommodated in the second accommodating section 232, the side surface of the second rack 27 is brought into sliding contact with the guide section 234, thereby making it possible to guide the second rack 27 into the second accommodating section 232. The upper end of the guide section 234 is bent or curved outward (the side opposite to the second accommodating section 232 side), thereby making it easy to insert the second rack 27 into the second accommodating section 232 side.

[0052] A handle portion 235 is provided on the upper portion of the container 23 to be grasped when carrying the container 23. The handle portion 235 is attached so as to be displaceable with respect to the container 23. In this example, the handle portion 235 is rotatable with respect to the container 23, and while the handle portion 235 is grasped in a state in which it extends upward, the handle portion 235 is stored in a state in which it extends horizontally as shown in FIG.

[0053] In this manner, all containers (sample container 34 and mixing container 36) can be set in container 23. Therefore, by mounting container 23 on table 21 with all containers set in advance, sample container 34 and mixing container 36 can be easily set in pretreatment device 12.

[0054] 4. Configuration of the first rack 6 is a perspective view showing a configuration example of the first rack 25. Each of the first racks 25 (the four first racks 25a and the additional first rack 25b) has the same shape. However, it is not necessary that all of the first racks 25 have the same shape, and they may have a shape different from the shapes described below.

[0055] The first rack 25 has two horizontal plates 252, two vertical plates 253, and one bottom plate 254. The bottom plate 254 has an elongated shape, and the vertical plates 253 extend upward from both ends in the longitudinal direction. The two vertical plates 253 extend parallel to each other in the horizontal direction with a gap between them.

[0056] The two horizontal plates 252 have an elongated shape with the same length as the bottom plate 254, and extend horizontally parallel to the bottom plate 254. The two horizontal plates 252 extend parallel to each other at a distance in the up-down direction, and both ends of each are fixed to the vertical plate 253. The distance between the upper horizontal plate 252 and the lower horizontal plate 252 is approximately the same as the distance between the lower horizontal plate 252 and the bottom plate 254.

[0057] Each horizontal plate 252 has a plurality of (for example, four) openings 251 arranged at equal intervals in the longitudinal direction. When viewed from above, each opening 251 formed in the upper horizontal plate 252 overlaps with each opening 251 formed in the lower horizontal plate 252. Therefore, each sample container 34 inserted from above into each opening 251 of the upper horizontal plate 252 is inserted into each opposing opening 251 in the lower horizontal plate 252 and held so as to extend in the vertical direction.

[0058] An intermediate plate 255 extending in the vertical direction is formed on the bottom plate 254. One intermediate plate 255 is formed to extend upward from the center of the length of the bottom plate 254, but two or more intermediate plates may be formed. The intermediate plate 255 extends to the height of the upper horizontal plate 252 and is connected to the upper horizontal plate 252 and the lower horizontal plate 252. As a result, the intermediate plate 255 serves as a reinforcing member for maintaining the shape of the first rack 25.

[0059] In this embodiment, a long hole 256 is formed so as to extend upward from the joint between the bottom plate 254 and the intermediate plate 255 through the center of the intermediate plate 255. This long hole 256 is for connecting a handle member 29 (see FIG. 7) to be described later to the first rack 25.

[0060] 5. Structure of handle components 7 is a perspective view showing a configuration example of the handle member 29. The handle member 29 is a member for easily carrying the first rack 25 (each of the first racks 25a and 25b), and is detachable from the first rack 25. However, the handle member 29 may have a shape different from the shape described below.

[0061] The handle member 29 has a vertical plate 291, a bottom plate 292, and a handle portion 293. The bottom plate 292 has an elongated shape, and the vertical plate 291 extends upward from one end in the short direction of the bottom plate 292. The handle portion 293 is a U-shaped member, and both ends thereof are joined to the upper end of the vertical plate 291, and is bent or curved toward the opposite side to the bottom plate 292 so as to extend horizontally.

[0062] A locking portion 294 extending in the up-down direction is formed on the vertical plate 291 of the handle member 29. This locking portion 294 is for locking the handle member 29 to the long hole 256 (see FIG. 6) of the first rack 25. One locking portion 294 is formed so as to extend upward from the center in the longitudinal direction of the bottom plate 292, but if a plurality of long holes 256 are formed in the first rack 25, the same number of locking portions 294 may be formed.

[0063] The locking portion 294 has, for example, a root portion 294a that protrudes horizontally (toward the bottom plate 292) from the vertical plate 291, and a head portion 294b that is connected to the tip edge of the root portion 294a and extends parallel to the vertical plate 291. The head portion 294b extends in a direction perpendicular to the root portion 294a, and the locking portion 294 has a T-shape when viewed from above.

[0064] When connecting the handle member 29 to the first rack 25, the first rack 25 is brought close from above along the surface of the vertical plate 291 of the handle member 29 on the bottom plate 292 side (the surface on the side on which the locking portion 294 is formed). At this time, the upper end of the root portion 294a of the locking portion 294 is inserted from the lower end of the long hole 256 so that the root portion 294a of the locking portion 294 passes through the long hole 256 of the first rack 25. Thereafter, by sliding the first rack 25 downward relative to the handle member 29, the root portion 294a of the locking portion 294 is inserted from the lower end to the upper end of the long hole 256, and the bottom plate 254 of the first rack 25 abuts against the bottom plate 292 of the handle member 29.

[0065] In this state, the intermediate plate 255 of the first rack 25 is sandwiched between the head 294b of the locking portion 294 of the handle member 29 and the vertical plate 291. This makes it possible to prevent the first rack 25 from coming off the handle member 29 in the horizontal direction.

[0066] In this embodiment, guide parts 295 extending in the up-down direction are formed on both horizontal ends of the vertical plate 291 of the handle member 29. Each guide part 295 protrudes from the surface of the vertical plate 291 on the bottom plate 292 side (the surface on the side on which the locking part 294 is formed). The distance between each guide part 295 is slightly larger than the width of the first rack 25 (the distance between the two vertical plates 253). Therefore, when connecting the handle member 29 to the first rack 25, the first rack 25 is slid from above to below so that each vertical plate 253 of the first rack 25 is aligned with each guide part 295, whereby the locking part 294 of the handle member 29 can be well guided into the long hole 256 of the first rack 25.

[0067] 6. Configuration of the second rack 8 is a perspective view showing a configuration example of the second rack 27. The second rack 27 has a shape similar to that of the first rack 25 in a state in which the handle member 29 is connected to the first rack 25. However, the first rack 25 may have a shape different from that described below.

[0068] The second rack 27 has a vertical plate 272, a bottom plate 273, a handle portion 274, and two horizontal plates 275. The bottom plate 273 has an elongated shape, and the vertical plate 272 extends upward from one end in the short direction of the bottom plate 273. The handle portion 274 is a U-shaped member, and both ends thereof are joined to the upper end of the vertical plate 272, and is bent or curved toward the opposite side to the bottom plate 273 so as to extend horizontally.

[0069] The two horizontal plates 275 have an elongated shape with the same length as the bottom plate 273, and extend horizontally parallel to the bottom plate 273. The two horizontal plates 275 extend parallel to each other at a distance from each other in the up-down direction, and one end of each horizontal plate in the short direction is joined to the vertical plate 272. The distance between the upper horizontal plate 275 and the lower horizontal plate 275 is approximately the same as the distance between the lower horizontal plate 275 and the bottom plate 273.

[0070] The above-mentioned multiple (for example, four) openings 271 are formed in each horizontal plate 275 at equal intervals in the longitudinal direction. When viewed from above, each opening 271 formed in the upper horizontal plate 275 overlaps with each opening 271 formed in the lower horizontal plate 275. Therefore, each mixing container 36 inserted from above into each opening 271 of the upper horizontal plate 275 is inserted into each opposing opening 271 in the lower horizontal plate 275 and held so as to extend in the vertical direction.

[0071] In this manner, in this embodiment, the multiple mixing containers 36 held in the mixing container holding section 22b are held integrally by using the second rack 27. This allows the multiple mixing containers 36 to be brought into the inspection device 14 at once by removing the second rack 27 from the mixing container holding section 22b. Similarly, the multiple sample containers 34 held in the sample container holding section 22a are also configured to be inserted and removed integrally into and from each of the first storage sections 231a and 231b by using the first rack 25.

[0072] 2 to 5, in this embodiment, the second rack 27 is detachable from the mixing container holding portion 22b while still having the handle portion 274. In contrast, the first rack 25 is detachable from the sample container holding portion 22a with the handle member 29 removed. That is, by removing the handle member 29, a plurality of first racks 25 can be accommodated in the container 23 in a state where they are close to each other, and more sample containers 34 can be held in the sample container holding portion 22a in a space-saving manner.

[0073] 6 and 7, an identification number (e.g., numbers "1" to "4") for identifying the sample container 34 (individual specimen) may be written on the upper horizontal plate 252 of the first rack 25 and the handle portion 293 of the handle member 29 in association with the sample container 34 inserted into each opening 251. Also, as shown in FIG. 8, an identification number (e.g., numbers "P1" to "P4") for identifying the mixing container 36 (pooled specimen) may be written on the handle portion 274 of the second rack 27 in association with the mixing container 36 inserted into each opening 271.

[0074] 7. Electrical configuration Fig. 9 is a block diagram showing an example of the electrical configuration of the user terminal 16. As shown in Fig. 9, the user terminal 16 includes a control unit 100, a display control circuit 110, an operation detection circuit 120, a communication unit 130, a display unit 140, and an operation unit 150.

[0075] The control unit 100, the display control circuit 110, the operation detection circuit 120, and the communication unit 130 are electrically connected to each other via wiring 108 such as a bus. In addition, the display control circuit 110 is electrically connected to the display unit 140, and the operation detection circuit 120 is electrically connected to the operation unit 150.

[0076] The control unit 100 is responsible for overall control of the user terminal 16. The control unit 100 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 102. The control unit 100 also includes a RAM (Random Access Memory) 104 and a storage unit 106 that the CPU 102 can directly access.

[0077] The CPU 102 controls each component of the user terminal 16. The RAM 104 is used as a work area and a buffer area for the CPU 102. The storage unit 106 is a non-volatile memory, and for example, a hard disk drive (HDD) or a solid state drive (SSD) is used as the storage unit 106.

[0078] The storage unit 106 stores a control program for controlling each component of the user terminal 16, data required for executing the control program (execution data), and the like. The storage unit 106 may be configured to include the RAM 104. The storage unit 106 may also be provided as a server separate from the user terminal 16. In this case, the server may be connected to the network 18.

[0079] The display control circuit 110 includes a GPU, a VRAM, and the like, and the GPU outputs signals for displaying various screens on the display unit 140 using image data stored in the RAM 104 under the instruction of the CPU 102. The display unit 140 is a general-purpose display device such as an LCD (Liquid crystal display) or an EL (Electro-Luminescence) display.

[0080] The operation detection circuit 120 outputs a signal corresponding to the operation of the operation unit 150 to the control unit 100. The operation unit 150 includes hardware keys (operation keys) provided on the user terminal 16. However, all or some of the various operation keys may be displayed on the display unit 140 as software keys. The operation unit 150 may also include an input device such as a keyboard or a mouse. The input device may further include a touch panel. In this case, the touch panel is provided on the display surface of the display unit 140. A touch panel display in which the touch panel and the display are integrally formed may also be used.

[0081] The communication unit 130 includes a communication circuit for connecting to the network 18 by wire or wirelessly, and communicates with the outside via the network 18 in response to an instruction from the CPU 102. The user terminal 16 can communicate with the preprocessing device 12 and the inspection device 14 via the communication unit 130. Therefore, it is possible to store data input from the preprocessing device 12 or the inspection device 14 in the storage unit 106, and to output data stored in the storage unit 106 to the preprocessing device 12 or the inspection device 14.

[0082] In this embodiment, information on each sample container 34 and information on each mixing container 36 are stored as sample information in the storage unit 106 of the user terminal 16. The information on each sample container 34 is, for example, information on the liquid sample (individual sample) in each sample container 34, and can be exemplified by identification information for identifying the individual sample (sample ID, sample name, patient name, sample collection date, etc.). The information on each mixing container 36 is, for example, information on the mixed liquid sample (pooled sample) in each mixing container 36, and can be exemplified by identification information for identifying the pooled sample (sample ID, sample name, patient name, sample collection date, etc.). Note that each piece of identification information may be input by the user operating the operation unit 150, or may be read from an information storage unit (such as a barcode or two-dimensional code) attached to the sample container 34 or the mixing container 36.

[0083] 8. Example of display screen 10 is a diagram showing an example of a display screen on the display unit 140 of the user terminal 16. In this example, a specimen information input screen for inputting specimen information is displayed on the display unit 140. The specimen information input screen includes a sequence display area 141 and a specimen information input area 142.

[0084] The arrangement display area 141 is an area for displaying the relative positional relationship (arrangement) of each sample container 34 and each mixing container 36. That is, in the arrangement display area 141, symbols representing each sample container 34 and each mixing container 36 are displayed so as to correspond to the arrangement of each sample container 34 and each mixing container 36 in the container holder 22 (sample container holder 22a and mixing container holder 22b).

[0085] Each mixing container 36 is indicated by the symbols "P1" to "P4" in the array display area 141. That is, each mixing container 36 held in the second rack 27 is indicated by the symbols "P1" to "P4" in association with the second rack 27.

[0086] Each sample container 34 is indicated by the symbols "1" to "5" in the array display area 141. Among the sample containers 34, each sample container 34 held in each first rack 25a is indicated by the symbols "1" to "4" in association with the four first racks 25a. Moreover, each sample container 34 held in the additional first rack 25b is indicated by the symbol "5" in association with the first rack 25b.

[0087] Therefore, the symbols "P1" to "P4" corresponding to each mixing container 36 and the symbols "1" to "5" corresponding to the four or five sample containers 34 that contain the liquid samples to be mixed in each mixing container 36 are displayed in a straight line.

[0088] In this embodiment, information on each mixing container 36 in the second rack 27 and information on each sample container 34 located on the same straight line as each mixing container 36 can be associated with each other and stored as specimen information in the storage unit 106. That is, for each of the four mixing containers 36 corresponding to the symbols "P1" to "P4" in the array display area 141, five (or four) sample containers 34 corresponding to the symbols "1" to "5" located on the same straight line (vertical column) are linked, and the specimen information on those mixing containers 36 and sample containers 34 is stored in the storage unit 106 in a linked state.

[0089] The specimen information input area 142 is an area for inputting information regarding each sample container 34 and each mixing container 36. The specimen information input area 142 includes a pool specimen selection area 143 and an information input area 144.

[0090] The pooled specimen selection area 143 is an area for selecting one of the mixing containers 36. That is, by selecting one of "P1" to "P4" in the pooled specimen selection area 143, one of the four mixing containers 36 held in the second rack 27 can be selected.

[0091] The information input area 144 is an area for inputting sample information for the mixing container 36 selected in the pooled sample selection area 143 and the sample containers 34 linked to the mixing container 36. Figure 10 shows a state in which "P1" is selected in the pooled sample selection area 143, and information on the mixing container 36 corresponding to "P1" and information on the five sample containers 34 linked to the mixing container 36 can be input in the information input area 144.

[0092] The information input area 144 includes an individual specimen information input area 144a and a pool specimen information input area 144b. The pool specimen information input area 144b is an area for inputting information (pool specimen information) about each mixing container 36 in the second rack. The individual specimen information input area 144a is an area for inputting information (individual specimen information) about each sample container 34 associated with each mixing container 36, i.e., each sample container 34 located on the same straight line as each mixing container 36.

[0093] In this example, the individual specimen information input area 144a and the pool specimen information input area 144b are displayed in a list in one area (information input area 144) so ​​as to correspond to each other. The individual specimen information input area 144a and the pool specimen information input area 144b include a selection field for selecting whether or not to perform pretreatment for each sample container 34 or each mixing container 36, as well as fields for inputting various information such as a specimen ID, a specimen name, or a patient name.

[0094] The user can start pre-processing by selecting whether each sample container 34 or each mixing container 36 is to be pre-processed, inputting the sample ID, and then selecting the start button 145. That is, the pre-processing device 12 performs pre-processing only on each selected sample container 34 and each mixing container 36. Also, by selecting the stop button 146, the started pre-processing can be stopped. Note that input of other information such as the sample name and patient name is optional, and the start button 145 can be selected without inputting any information.

[0095] The specimen information (information on each specimen container 34 and each mixing container 36) input as described above and stored in the memory unit 106 can be read out by the inspection device 14. That is, the inspection device 14 can perform an inspection using the specimen information read out from the memory unit 106. Specifically, it is possible to arbitrarily search for any of the specimen containers 34 or mixing containers 36 using the specimen information read out from the memory unit 106, or to perform a refined search.

[0096] In the testing device 14, when a test result is positive for the pooled specimens (liquid specimens mixed in each mixing container 36) in each mixing container 36 held in the second rack 27, information (individual specimen information) on each sample container 34 linked to the mixing container 36 determined to be positive can be searched for and read from the storage unit 106. The search operation at this time may be configured to automatically perform the search with a single operation, such as a click operation on the test result (graph, etc.) displayed on the display unit 140.

[0097] As described above, the user can read out information (individual specimen information) relating to each sample container 34 linked to the mixing container 36 that has been determined to be positive from the memory unit 106, and set the multiple sample containers 34 corresponding to that individual specimen information together with the first rack 25 into the testing device 14, thereby testing the individual specimens without mixing up the specimens.

[0098] 9. Aspects It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the exemplary embodiments described above are examples of the following aspects.

[0099] (Item 1) A pretreatment device according to one aspect comprises: A pretreatment device capable of dispensing and mixing liquid samples from a plurality of sample containers, each of which contains a liquid sample, into a mixing container, comprising: A main body having a sample container holder for holding a plurality of sample containers and a mixing container holder for holding a plurality of mixing containers; a sample container rack that is detachable from the sample container holder and can integrally hold a predetermined number of sample containers; a mixing container rack that is detachable from the mixing container holding unit and can integrally hold the predetermined number of mixing containers; An arrangement of the predetermined number of sample containers held in the sample container rack may match an arrangement of the predetermined number of mixing containers held in the mixing container rack.

[0100] According to the pretreatment device described in paragraph 1, pretreatment can be performed using a sample container rack and a mixing container rack with matching arrangements. When setting the sample containers or mixing containers after pretreatment in the testing device, it is only necessary to move the sample container rack or mixing container rack, making it easy to handle multiple sample containers or mixing containers.

[0101] (2) In the pretreatment device according to (1), The sample container rack is capable of holding the predetermined number of sample containers in a straight line, The mixing vessel rack may be capable of holding the predetermined number of mixing vessels arranged in a straight line.

[0102] According to the pretreatment device described in paragraph 2, a plurality of sample containers or mixing containers can be arranged in a straight line by the sample container rack and the mixing container rack, making it easy to handle them.

[0103] (Item 3) In the pretreatment device according to item 2, One mixing vessel in the mixing vessel rack attached to the mixing vessel holding section may be positioned on a straight line in which the predetermined number of sample vessels are arranged in the sample vessel rack attached to the sample vessel holding section.

[0104] According to the pretreatment device described in paragraph 3, the mixing container and a plurality of sample containers holding liquid samples to be mixed in the mixing container can be arranged in a straight line, thereby enabling smooth pretreatment and preventing mix-up of samples.

[0105] (4) In the pretreatment device according to the third aspect, The predetermined number of sample container racks are detachably attached to the sample container holding unit, Each mixing vessel in the mixing vessel rack attached to the mixing vessel holding section may be positioned on each straight line on which the predetermined number of sample vessels are arranged in each sample vessel rack attached to the sample vessel holding section.

[0106] According to the pretreatment device described in paragraph 4, a plurality of mixing containers can be held in a mixing container rack, and each mixing container can be aligned in a straight line with a plurality of sample containers that contain liquid samples to be mixed in the mixing container. Therefore, the mixing container and the sample container can be linked in a plurality of pairs, improving the efficiency of pretreatment.

[0107] (5) In the pretreatment device according to the above (4), The sample container holding unit is capable of attaching and detaching an additional sample container rack in addition to the predetermined number of sample container racks, Each sample container in the additional sample container rack attached to the sample container holding section may be positioned on each straight line in which the predetermined number of sample containers are arranged in each sample container rack attached to the sample container holding section.

[0108] According to the pretreatment device described in paragraph 5, the sample containers held in the additional sample container rack can also be linked to the mixing container and arranged in a straight line, thereby further improving the efficiency of pretreatment.

[0109] (Item 6) In the pretreatment device according to item 4 or 5, a handle member detachable from each of the predetermined number of sample container racks; The predetermined number of sample vessel racks may be detachably attached to the sample vessel holder with the handle members removed.

[0110] According to the pretreatment device described in item 6, by attaching the handle member to the sample container rack, the sample container rack can be easily moved by gripping the handle member. Also, by removing the handle member, a plurality of sample container racks can be stored in close proximity to the sample container holder, and more sample containers can be held in the sample container holder in a space-saving manner.

[0111] (7) An inspection system according to one aspect comprises: A pretreatment device according to any one of items 4 to 6, a storage unit that associates information about each mixing container in the mixing container rack with information about each sample container located on the same straight line as each mixing container, and stores the information as specimen information; The apparatus may further include a testing device that reads out the sample information from the memory unit.

[0112] According to the testing system described in the seventh aspect, the sample information can be read out from the storage unit in the testing device, and testing can be performed using the sample information.

[0113] (Item 8) In the inspection system according to item 7, A display unit on which the input screen for the sample information is displayed is further provided, The sample information input screen may display an input area for information about each mixing container in the mixing container rack in correspondence with an input area for information about each sample container located on the same straight line as each mixing container.

[0114] According to the inspection system described in paragraph 8, input areas for information regarding each container are displayed in correspondence with a mixing container and multiple sample containers that hold liquid samples to be mixed in the mixing container, making it easy to understand the correspondence and preventing erroneous input. [Explanation of symbols]

[0115] 10 Inspection System 12 Pretreatment device 14 Inspection equipment 16 User terminals 22a Sample container holder 22b Mixing container holder 25 1st Rack 27 2nd Rack 29 Handle parts 34 Sample Container 36 Mixing container 106 Storage section 140 Display section 142 Sample information input area

Claims

1. A pretreatment device capable of dispensing and mixing liquid samples from a plurality of sample containers, each of which contains a liquid sample, into a mixing container, comprising: A main body having a sample container holder for holding a plurality of sample containers and a mixing container holder for holding a plurality of mixing containers; a sample container rack that is detachable from the sample container holder and can integrally hold a predetermined number of sample containers; a mixing container rack that is detachable from the mixing container holding unit and can integrally hold the predetermined number of mixing containers; A pretreatment device, wherein an arrangement of the predetermined number of sample containers held in the sample container rack matches an arrangement of the predetermined number of mixing containers held in the mixing container rack.

2. The sample container rack is capable of holding the predetermined number of sample containers in a straight line, The pretreatment device according to claim 1 , wherein the mixing container rack is capable of holding the predetermined number of mixing containers arranged in a straight line.

3. 3. The pretreatment device according to claim 2, wherein one mixing container in the mixing container rack attached to the mixing container holding section is positioned on a straight line in which the predetermined number of sample containers are arranged in the sample container rack attached to the sample container holding section.

4. The predetermined number of sample container racks are detachably attached to the sample container holding unit, 4. The pretreatment device according to claim 3, wherein each mixing container in the mixing container rack mounted in the mixing container holding section is positioned on each straight line on which the predetermined number of sample containers are arranged in each sample container rack mounted in the sample container holding section.

5. The sample container holding unit is capable of attaching and detaching an additional sample container rack in addition to the predetermined number of sample container racks, The pretreatment device according to claim 4 , wherein each sample container in the additional sample container rack mounted in the sample container holding section is positioned on each straight line in which the predetermined number of sample containers are arranged in each sample container rack mounted in the sample container holding section.

6. a handle member detachable from each of the predetermined number of sample container racks; 5. The pretreatment device according to claim 4, wherein the predetermined number of sample container racks are detachable from the sample container holder with the handle members removed.

7. A pretreatment device according to any one of claims 4 to 6, a storage unit that associates information about each mixing container in the mixing container rack with information about each sample container located on the same straight line as each mixing container, and stores the information as specimen information; and a testing device that reads out the sample information from the memory unit.

8. A display unit on which the input screen for the sample information is displayed is further provided, The inspection system according to claim 7, wherein the sample information input screen displays an input area for information about each mixing container in the mixing container rack in association with an input area for information about each sample container located on the same straight line as each mixing container.

Images