Observation system, sheet arrangement adjustment mechanism, sheet supply cartridge, sheet recovery cartridge, and observation method

Abstract

The present invention addresses the problem of providing an observation system, a sheet arrangement adjustment mechanism, a sheet supply / collection cartridge, and an observation method which can quickly and easily prepare an object to be observed in an observable state and improve work efficiency related to observation.　To solve the above problem, provided are: an observation system including an arrangement means (3) for arranging an object (S) to be observed on a first sheet (2a), and an observation means (4) for observing the object (S) in a state in which a second sheet (2b) is superimposed on the first sheet (2a) on which the object (S) has been arranged, and the object is fixed between the sheets; an observation method; a sheet arrangement adjustment mechanism provided in observation system; and a sheet supply / collection cartridge. According to the present invention, the observation is performed in a state in which the object (S) is disposed / fixed between the two sheets (2a, 2b), and thus a sample can be prepared and observed without preparation production. Accordingly, a process related to sample preparation can be greatly simplified, and observation work can be quickly performed.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an observation system, a sheet arrangement adjustment mechanism, a sheet supply cartridge, a sheet recovery cartridge, and an observation method. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, improvements in information processing and observation techniques have made it possible to acquire and analyze large amounts of data. As a result, it has become increasingly important to acquire and analyze observation data on various objects, compile the data into a database, and make effective use of the data.

[0003] In particular, when obtaining observation data through microscopic observation, it is now possible to obtain not only image data relating to the shape of the object being observed, but also measurement data in combination with various optical analysis means, and the amount of information that can be used as observation data has increased dramatically.

[0004] While the technology for acquiring and analyzing various observation data has improved, the preparation of specimens (samples) to make the objects suitable for observation is largely done manually, and as the amount of objects to be observed increases, the labor costs and time required for preparing specimens of the objects to be observed become significant. In order to create a database of observation data and to effectively use the data, it is necessary to quickly perform the work of observing large amounts of objects to be observed, so improvements in the efficiency of sample preparation of objects to be observed are being considered.

[0005] For example, Patent Document 1 describes an apparatus for automatically processing objects to be observed (biological specimens) that includes a slide tray for holding slides on which the objects to be observed are placed, a device for transporting the slide tray, a fluid module for supplying reagents, and an automatic cover glass mounting processing device. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] JP 2013-92532 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0007] As described in Patent Document 1, it is known to automate the preparation of so-called slides using a cover glass and a slide glass in order to quickly observe a plurality of observation objects. However, preparation of a slide generally requires complicated steps as sample preparation operations, starting with placing an object to be observed on a slide glass, supplying reagents, placing a cover glass, transporting the sample to the microscope stage, etc. Therefore, although the automation of slide preparation described in Patent Document 1 can significantly reduce labor costs, there remain issues regarding the preparation of a large number of samples and the efficiency of sample observation.

[0008] In addition, with the recent advances in technology in the medical and biological fields, there has been an increase in the number of cells and microorganisms being handled as observation objects. In this case, there is a trend to observe living organisms such as live cells and living microorganisms (hereinafter simply referred to as "living organisms"), rather than dead cells or dead microorganisms, and to obtain the observation data. In the case of a conventional specimen form such as a slide, the state or position of the observation object may change during the process of preparing the slide and transporting it to the microscope stage, which makes the operation of obtaining observation data even more complicated and makes it difficult to obtain accurate observation data. In addition, when a living organism is used as the observation object, sample preparation using a multi-well plate having multiple wells (holes) is also known, but in this case, there is a problem that it is difficult to fix the living organism and make observation difficult. For this reason, a new observation technique that does not rely on slides or multi-well plates used in conventional sample preparation is required.

[0009] The object of the present invention is to provide an observation system, a sheet placement adjustment mechanism, a sheet supply cartridge, a sheet recovery cartridge, and an observation method that can improve the efficiency of observation work by making it quick and easy to prepare an object to be observed so that it can be observed. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] As a result of extensive research into the above-mentioned problems, the inventors discovered that by positioning and fixing the object to be observed between two sheets and performing the observation, and by providing a mechanism for adjusting the position of the sheets and for supplying and recovering them during observation, it is possible to quickly and easily carry out the work of preparing a sample of the object to be observed, and thus completed the present invention. That is, the present invention provides the following observation system, sheet arrangement adjustment mechanism, sheet supply cartridge, sheet recovery cartridge, and observation method.

[0011] To solve the above problems, the observation system of the present invention is characterized by comprising a first sheet, a placement means for placing an object to be observed on the first sheet, a second sheet that is overlaid on the first sheet after the object to be observed has been placed on the first sheet, and an observation means for observing the object to be observed while it is fixed between the first sheet and the second sheet.

[0012] The observation system of the present invention arranges and fixes the observation object between two sheets, and performs the observation in this state, thereby enabling sample preparation and observation without the preparation of a slide using a cover glass and a slide glass. This greatly simplifies the process of sample preparation, and enables the observation work to be performed quickly. In addition, since the observation object is fixed between two sheets, no external force stronger than necessary is applied to the observation object. This makes it easy to handle living organisms such as living cells and living microorganisms as the observation object. Therefore, the observation system of the present invention can improve the work efficiency related to the observation of a large number of observation objects, and can also improve the work efficiency in database creation of observation data related to living organisms and effective use of the data.

[0013] Moreover, one embodiment of the observation system of the present invention is characterized in that recovery means for recovering the observation target is provided downstream of the observation means. According to this feature, by collecting the observation object after observation, it becomes possible to preserve the observation object as a specimen together with the observation data. In particular, it becomes possible to collect objects such as living organisms that are rare or have high value as specimens. Furthermore, the collected observation object can be used as a sample to supplement the database of observation data, or the observation object itself can be reused.

[0014] In one embodiment of the observation system of the present invention, the recovery means comprises a means for peeling off the first sheet and the second sheet and taking out the observation object. In conventional observations using preparations, it is difficult to peel off the cover glass from the slide glass, and it is difficult to recover the observed object after observation. On the other hand, according to this feature, the two overlapping sheets can be easily peeled off, so that the observed object between the first sheet and the second sheet can be easily recovered by removing it from between the two sheets after observation. In particular, when a living organism is used as the observed object, it can also be used as a technique for separating and recovering a specific living organism.

[0015] In addition, one embodiment of the observation system of the present invention is characterized in that the recovery means comprises a means for cutting off the sheet with the observation object fixed between the first sheet and the second sheet. This feature makes it possible to collect the observation target together with the sheet after observation. This makes it possible not only to collect the observation target directly, but also to collect and preserve the observation target while it is fixed to the sheet. In particular, when a living organism is used as the observation target, this can also be used as a technique for separating and collecting a specific living organism.

[0016] Moreover, one embodiment of the observation system of the present invention is characterized in that it includes a sheet moving mechanism that moves the first sheet and the second sheet, and the sheet moving mechanism has a speed adjustment function. This feature makes it easy to continuously perform sample preparation and sample observation. This further improves the efficiency of work related to observation of a large number of objects to be observed. In addition, by adjusting the moving speed of the sheet, it becomes easy to adjust the amount of objects to be observed placed on the sheet. This makes it possible to perform work related to sample preparation of objects to be observed more quickly and easily.

[0017] In addition, in one embodiment of the observation system of the present invention, the observation means is equipped with a sheet positioning adjustment mechanism that adjusts the positioning of the first sheet and the second sheet, and the sheet positioning adjustment mechanism is characterized by having a fixing jig for attaching the first sheet and the second sheet, and a support portion that maintains smooth surfaces of the first sheet and the second sheet. This feature makes it possible to easily adjust the distance and alignment between the first sheet and the second sheet, suppress distortion or bending of the sheet during observation of the object to be observed, reliably fix the object to be observed, and improve the observation accuracy. This makes it possible to further improve the efficiency of the work related to sample preparation and the work related to observation of the object to be observed.

[0018] In one embodiment of the observation system of the present invention, the observation means comprises a microscope and a camera. According to this feature, by combining a microscope and a camera for observation, it is possible to obtain information on the observation object itself (observation data) and at the same time obtain information necessary for the observation work, which can further improve the work efficiency for observing a large number of observation objects.

[0019] Furthermore, one embodiment of the observation system of the present invention is characterized in that it is equipped with a control means for adjusting operations related to the placement means and / or the observation means, and the operations include at least one of an operation of placing the object to be observed on a sheet, an operation related to operating the observation means, and an operation related to obtaining and storing observation data. According to this feature, it is possible to improve the accuracy of the observation data acquired by the observation means and to improve the efficiency of the work related to the observation.

[0020] In addition, one embodiment of the observation system of the present invention is characterized in that the control means also adjusts the retrieval operation related to the retrieval means. According to this feature, it is possible to further improve the efficiency of the observation work.

[0021] In addition, one embodiment of the observation system of the present invention is characterized in that the control means also adjusts the sheet operation related to the sheet moving mechanism. According to this feature, it is possible to further improve the efficiency of the observation work.

[0022] In one embodiment of the observation system of the present invention, the first sheet and the second sheet are characterized in that one or a part of the sheets have different surface properties against water. According to this feature, by making the surface properties against water different in either one or some of the first and second sheets, when an aqueous solution containing an object to be observed is placed on the first sheet and then the second sheet is superimposed, the aqueous solution spreads appropriately between the sheets, making it easy to maintain a constant distance between the sheets. This makes it possible to stably fix the object to be observed and to further improve the efficiency of the observation process.

[0023] In addition, the sheet positioning adjustment mechanism of the present invention for solving the above problems is a sheet positioning adjustment mechanism that adjusts the position of a sheet used to observe an object to be observed, and is characterized by having a fixing jig for attaching the sheet on which the object to be observed is placed, and a support part that maintains the smooth surface of the sheet. According to this feature, it is possible to easily adjust the distance and alignment between the first sheet and the second sheet, suppress distortion or bending of the sheets when observing an object to be observed, reliably fix the object to be observed, and improve the observation accuracy. In addition, by applying this sheet arrangement adjustment mechanism to an existing observation means (e.g., a microscope, etc.), it is possible to provide an observation system and observation means that can further improve the efficiency of work related to sample preparation and work related to observation of the object to be observed, without requiring major equipment updates.

[0024] In addition, the sheet supply cartridge of the present invention for solving the above problem is a sheet supply cartridge that supplies a sheet used for observing an object to be observed, and is characterized in that it is equipped with a sheet for placing the object to be observed, and a storage section that stores the sheet in a manner that allows it to be fed out. This feature makes it easy to supply the sheet on which the observation object is placed, and makes it easy to replace and store the sheet, which makes it possible to further improve the efficiency of sample preparation and observation of the observation object.

[0025] In addition, the sheet recovery cartridge of the present invention for solving the above problem is a sheet recovery cartridge that recovers a sheet used for observing an object to be observed, and has the characteristic of being equipped with a recovery section that recovers and stores the sheet on which the object to be observed is placed. According to this feature, after the observation object is placed and the observation is completed, the sheet can be easily collected, and the work related to sheet replacement and storage can be easily performed. In addition, when the observation object is a living body, the post-processing of the sheet is also easy. This makes it possible to further improve the efficiency of the work related to sample preparation and the work related to observation of the observation object.

[0026] In addition, the observation method of the present invention for solving the above problems is characterized by comprising a first sheet and a second sheet, and includes a placement step of placing an object to be observed on the first sheet, a step of overlapping the first sheet and the second sheet after the object to be observed has been placed on the first sheet, and an observation step of observing the object to be observed while fixed between the first sheet and the second sheet. In the observation method of the present invention, the observation object is placed and fixed between two sheets, and the observation is performed in this state, which enables sample preparation and sample observation without the preparation of a slide using a cover glass and a slide glass. This greatly simplifies the process related to sample preparation, and enables the observation work to be performed quickly. In addition, since the observation object is fixed between two sheets, no external force stronger than necessary is applied to the observation object. This makes it easy to handle living organisms such as living cells and living microorganisms as the observation object. Therefore, the observation method of the present invention can improve the work efficiency related to the observation of a large number of observation objects, and can also improve the work efficiency in database creation of observation data related to living organisms and effective use of the data. Effect of the Invention

[0027] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an observation system, a sheet placement adjustment mechanism, a sheet supply cartridge, a sheet recovery cartridge, and an observation method that can improve the efficiency of observation work by making it quick and easy to prepare the object to be observed so that it can be observed. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0028] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic explanatory diagram of an observation system according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] 1A is a schematic diagram showing a change in the amount of liquid in an observation object placed on a sheet in accordance with the moving speed of the sheet in the observation system according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a schematic explanatory diagram showing another aspect of the observation system in the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a schematic explanatory diagram showing the structure of a seat arrangement adjustment mechanism in the observation system according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 5] FIG. 4 is a schematic explanatory diagram showing another example of the seat arrangement adjusting mechanism in the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] FIG. 4 is a schematic explanatory diagram showing another example of the seat arrangement adjusting mechanism in the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] FIG. 4 is a schematic explanatory diagram showing another example of the seat arrangement adjusting mechanism in the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] FIG. 4 is a schematic explanatory diagram showing another example of the seat arrangement adjusting mechanism in the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a schematic explanatory diagram showing the structure of a sheet feeding cartridge in the observation system according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is a schematic explanatory diagram showing the structure of a sheet recovery cartridge in the observation system according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a schematic explanatory diagram of an observation system according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12]FIG. 11 is a schematic explanatory diagram showing another aspect of the observation system in the second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] FIG. 11 is a schematic explanatory diagram of an observation system according to a third embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0029] Hereinafter, embodiments of the observation system, the sheet arrangement adjustment mechanism, the sheet supply cartridge, the sheet recovery cartridge, and the observation method according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. The observation method in the present invention is replaced with the description of the operation of the observation system in the present invention. Note that the observation system, sheet position adjustment mechanism, sheet supply cartridge, sheet recovery cartridge, and observation method described in the embodiments are merely examples used to explain the observation system, sheet position adjustment mechanism, sheet supply cartridge, sheet recovery cartridge, and observation method of the present invention, and are not limited to these.

[0030] In the observation system of the present invention, the object to be observed is not particularly limited, and can be anything that requires the accumulation and analysis of observation data through observation in various fields. The form of the object to be observed may be anything that can be placed on a sheet, and may be in the form of a liquid or solid, or a solution containing the object to be observed. With the recent progress in medicine and biology, the importance of accumulating and analyzing observation data related to cells, microorganisms, etc. is increasing. Therefore, the observation object of the present invention can be cells, microorganisms, etc., for which collection of observation data is considered important in medicine and biology. In particular, it is preferable to use as the observation object those living organisms such as living cells and living microorganisms that are difficult to observe by conventional sample preparation using a slide. Other examples of the observation object of the present invention include powders and solid flakes of metals and rocks, as well as fine particles of organic and inorganic substances. In the following embodiment, the observation subject will be mainly described as an aqueous solution containing a living organism, but the observation subject is not limited to this.

[0031] [First embodiment] (Observation System) FIG. 1 is a schematic explanatory diagram showing the structure of an observation system in a first embodiment of the present invention. As shown in Fig. 1, the observation system 1A in this embodiment includes a first sheet 2a, a second sheet 2b, a placement means 3 for placing an observation target S, and an observation means 4. The first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b are provided with a sheet moving mechanism 5. In Fig. 1, the dashed arrows indicate connections that enable data input / output and control.

[0032] In the observation system 1A in this embodiment, the observation object S is placed on the first sheet 2a by the placement means 3, and then the second sheet 2b is placed on top of it to fix the observation object S between the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b, and observation is performed in this state by the observation means 4. That is, instead of a conventional preparation consisting of a cover glass and a slide glass, the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b in this embodiment are overlapped as a sample and observed. In addition, by providing a sheet moving mechanism 5 on the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b, it is possible to perform a series of operations from sample preparation to sample observation. This simplifies the work of transporting the sample in conventional observation using a preparation, and makes it possible to improve the work efficiency related to the observation.

[0033] Each component of the observation system 1A will be described in detail below.

[0034] The first sheet 2a is for placing the observation object S and supporting the observation object S. The second sheet 2b is placed on the first sheet 2a on which the observation object S is placed, thereby fixing the observation object S.

[0035] The first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b may be any sheet on which the observation object S can be placed and which can be observed by the observation means 4, and there are no particular limitations on the material or shape of the sheet. The first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b may have any shape as long as they have a width that can sufficiently secure the observation field by the observation means 4 described later. The first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b may have a shape, for example, of a roll-shaped film. This can facilitate the movement of the sheets by the sheet moving mechanism 5 described later. The first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b are preferably structured to be replaceable in a cartridge type. This makes it easy to replace the sheets, thereby improving the efficiency of the observation work.

[0036] Examples of materials for the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b in this embodiment include materials that are light-transmitting, insoluble in water, and impermeable to water. It is more preferable that the materials are resistant to organic solvents. Examples of such materials include resin films and glass films. For example, by using inexpensive resin films such as polyethylene films, polypropylene films, and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) films, which are widely available in the market, as the resin film, the running costs associated with observation can be reduced. It is known that polyethylene films have high transmittance for terahertz waves, and can be particularly suitably used when electron beam observation is used as the observation means 4. Moreover, it is more preferable that the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b are made of a material that is light-transmitting and has little autofluorescence or light absorption. This can suppress the influence on the observation in the observation means 4. Examples of such materials include resin films with little light absorption, such as cycloolefin films, and glass films. In particular, glass films are preferably used as a substitute for slides for optical observation. The autofluorescence and light absorption in the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b may be dealt with by correcting them as background during observation in the observation means 4. Furthermore, the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b are preferably resistant to various sterilization processes (electron beam sterilization, ultraviolet sterilization, heat sterilization, etc.). This makes it possible to suppress the inclusion of bacteria and microorganisms other than the observation target when a living organism is used as the observation target S. Furthermore, when a living organism is used as the observation target S, the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b may be selected or given oxygen permeability / non-permeability. For example, when the living organism is anaerobic, it is preferable to select a material having oxygen non-permeability for the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b. On the other hand, when the living organism is aerobic, it is preferable to select a material having oxygen permeability for the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b. This makes it possible to control the effect of oxygen on the living organism during the observation work.

[0037] The first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b may be made of the same material or different materials. The first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b may have the same thickness or different thicknesses. For example, when the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b are bonded or cut by the recovery means 9 described later, a thin sheet surface suitable for thermal bonding of the sheets and a thick sheet surface suitable for cutting or storing the sheets may be combined.

[0038] The first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b may be subjected to a surface treatment, but the type of the surface treatment is not particularly limited. For example, one example of the surface treatment is a treatment related to the surface properties against water, such as hydrophilic treatment or water repellency treatment. Note that the surface properties against water include those related to hydrophilicity / hydrophobicity, as well as wetting properties and the contact angle of water. At this time, the hydrophilic treatment or water-repellent treatment may be performed on the entire sheet, but the hydrophilic treatment or water-repellent treatment may be performed in a certain pattern. For example, the hydrophilic treatment is performed so that a square, rectangular, circular or elliptical pattern is arranged at a certain interval, and the observation object S made of an aqueous solution is placed on the hydrophilic treatment area by the placement means 3 described later. This makes it possible to stably place the observation object S on the surface-treated area. In particular, it is preferable that either one or some of the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b have different surface properties against water. This allows the aqueous solution containing the object to be observed S to be appropriately spread between the sheets when the second sheet 2b is superimposed on the first sheet 2a, making it easy to keep the gap between the sheets constant. This makes it possible to stably fix the object to be observed and to improve the efficiency of the work involved in the observation by the observation means 4.

[0039] Another example of the surface treatment is to apply a substance for immobilizing the observation object S. For example, when the observation object S is a living organism, the substance to be applied to the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b may be an antibody against the living organism, or a protein, peptide, enzyme, nucleic acid, base, sugar chain, phospholipid, glycolipid, etc. that binds to the living organism. This makes it possible to stably position the observation object S at the location where the surface treatment has been performed. Another example of the surface treatment is to apply a reagent for observing the observation object S. Examples of such a reagent include a staining reagent, a fluorescent reagent, and various probes. This makes it easier to observe the observation object S at the site where the surface treatment has been performed by the observation means 4, and makes it possible to improve the efficiency of the observation work.

[0040] In addition, various types of identification information for facilitating identification during observation may be incorporated into the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b. Examples of such identification information include size-related identification information such as grids and scale bars, and position-related identification information such as markers provided at predetermined intervals, guides such as codes (numbering, character codes, bar codes, etc.). Examples of means for incorporating the identification information include printing the identification information on the first sheet 2a or the second sheet 2b in advance, or manually writing it in.

[0041] The arrangement means 3 is for carrying out an arrangement step of arranging the observation target S on the first sheet 2a. The placement means 3 in this embodiment is not particularly limited as long as it can place the observation object S. It is preferable to select the placement means 3 according to the form (liquid or solid) of the observation object S.

[0042] A specific example of the positioning means 3 is one that includes a dispensing unit 30, a supply unit 31 that supplies the object to be observed S to the dispensing unit 30, and a control mechanism 32 that controls the angle and position of the dispensing unit 30, as shown in Figure 1.

[0043] The dispensing unit 30 is used when the observation object S is a liquid, and dispenses the observation object S by dropping it onto the first sheet 2a. The dispensing unit 30 may be any device having a structure suitable for dripping and discharging liquid, such as a tip or a syringe. The material of the dispensing unit 30 is not particularly limited and can be selected according to the properties of the observation target S. Examples of the material of the dispensing unit 30 include plastic, metal, and glass.

[0044] It is preferable that the dispensing unit 30 has a replaceable structure. This allows the dispensing unit 30 to be replaced depending on the type of the observation object S or changes in the observation conditions, making it possible to suppress contamination such as the mixing of other observation objects S during observation. In addition, from the viewpoint of suppressing contamination, the dispensing unit 30 can be made washable and washed every time the type of observation object S is changed. Here, from the viewpoint of improving the efficiency of the observation work, it is preferable to make the dispensing unit 30 replaceable, and in this case, an inexpensive plastic tip is used as the dispensing unit 30 and can be replaced in a disposable form. This allows the next observation object S to be placed by a short operation of only replacing the tip, making it possible to perform observation in a substantially continuous state. On the other hand, when a metal or glass tip or syringe is used as the dispensing unit 30, it is preferable to provide a means for cleaning the dispensing unit 30. This allows the dispensing unit 30 to be used repeatedly, and the cost of replacing the dispensing unit 30 can be reduced.

[0045] The supply unit 31 supplies the observation object S to the dispensing unit 30 . The supply unit 31 may be any unit capable of supplying the observation target S to the dispensing unit 30, and the specific structure thereof is not particularly limited. The supply unit 31 in this embodiment may include, for example, a storage unit 31a for storing the observation object S, and a supply line 31b and a pump 31c for supplying the observation object S to the dispensing unit 30, as shown in FIG.

[0046] The storage section 31a in the supply section 31 is not particularly limited as long as it can store the observation target S (liquid). Examples include a water tank, a flask, a beaker, and a tube. When storing a solution containing the observation target S, a stirring mechanism may be provided in the storage section 31a. This can increase the dispersibility of the observation target S in the solution and prevent only the solution not containing the observation target S from being supplied to the dispensing section 30.

[0047] The supply line 31b and the pump 31c are not particularly limited as long as they can transport the observation object S (liquid). For example, the supply line 31b may be a tube made of resin or metal. The pump 31c may be a pump capable of accurately supplying a predetermined volume, such as various metering pumps or a pump provided with a flow rate control valve. This makes it easy to set conditions for the arrangement of the observation object S, thereby improving the efficiency of the observation work.

[0048] The control mechanism 32 is for controlling the angle and position of the dispensing unit 30 . The control mechanism 32 may include a support connected to the dispensing unit 30 and a drive mechanism for driving the support along the XYZ axis and the rotation axis. The drive mechanism may be operated manually, or may be provided with a control unit for controlling by numerical input or automatically by a program or the like. This makes it possible to adjust the angle and position of the dispensing unit 30 relative to the first sheet 2a and place the observation target S at any position on the first sheet 2a. The control mechanism 32 may also adjust the angle and position of the dispensing unit 30 and place the observation target S on the second sheet 2b. This makes it possible to place different objects on the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b, as described later.

[0049] One example of the position control of the dispensing unit 30 by the control mechanism 32 is to move the dispensing unit 30 to a position off the first sheet 2a when the observation work is temporarily stopped and then restarted, such as during or immediately after cleaning of the dispensing unit 30, or immediately after changing the type of observation target S, and then move the dispensing unit 30 onto the first sheet 2a and place the observation target S. This prevents waste liquid unsuitable for observation from being placed on the first sheet 2a, making it possible to improve the efficiency of the observation work.

[0050] The arrangement means 3 is not limited to the configuration shown in Fig. 1. For example, a plurality of arrangement means 3 may be provided. When a plurality of arrangement means 3 is provided, what is arranged on the first sheet 2a by the arrangement means 3 is not only the observation object S, but also a reagent required for observing the observation object S may be arranged. In particular, when the observation object S is a solution containing a living organism, it is preferable to arrange a staining reagent that is widely used in observing living organisms by the arrangement means 3. At this time, it is preferable to mix the observation object S and the staining reagent by overlapping the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b, rather than directly supplying the staining reagent to the observation object S arranged on the first sheet 2a. This makes it possible to suppress contamination in the dispensing unit 30. For example, the observation object S and the staining reagent may be arranged adjacent to each other on the first sheet 2a so as not to come into contact with each other, or the angle of the dispensing unit 30 that arranges the observation object S and the angle of the dispensing unit 30 that arranges the staining reagent may be different, and the observation object S and the staining reagent may be arranged on the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b, respectively.

[0051] Furthermore, the items arranged by the arranging means 3 other than the observation object S are not limited to reagents (staining reagents) necessary for observing the observation object S, but include chemical substances (reagents) for observing the effects of environmental changes on the observation object S. For example, if the observation object S is a solution containing a living organism, a solution with a high salt concentration or pH can be arranged by the arranging means 3 and mixed with the observation object S to observe the effects of the salt concentration or pH on the living organism. This makes it possible to quickly and easily obtain observation data accompanying environmental changes to the observation object S.

[0052] As another example of the arrangement means 3, a dispensing tool such as a pipette may be used as the dispensing unit 30 and the supply unit 31, and the observation objects S may be arranged manually. This is particularly useful when the number of observation objects S to be arranged is small, such as when considering the setting of observation conditions, such as the selection of the material and surface treatment conditions of the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b. In addition, the arrangement means 3 may be a pipette or a syringe pump in which the process from sucking up to discharging the observation objects S is automated. This makes it easy to automate the arrangement process, and therefore it is possible to improve the work efficiency related to observation. In addition, by performing position control by the control mechanism 32, it is possible to switch the object to be sucked up as the observation object S, and automatically and continuously switch between multiple observation objects S.

[0053] Another example of the arrangement means 3 is to provide a distribution section equipped with a pick-up device such as tweezers instead of the dispensing section 30. This makes it possible to arrange a solid slice as the observation target S on the first sheet 2a. Note that the pick-up device in the distribution section may be any structure capable of gripping and carrying the solid slice as the observation target S, and examples of such a structure include a structure for pinching a solid slice like general tweezers, and a structure for suction like suction tweezers.

[0054] After the object to be observed S is arranged on the first sheet 2a by the arrangement means 3, the second sheet 2b is placed on top of it, so that the object to be observed S can be fixed between the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b. The means for overlapping the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b is not particularly limited. For example, the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b can be overlapped using a sheet moving mechanism 5 described later. This makes it easy to automate the work related to sample preparation.

[0055] The observation means 4 is for performing an observation step of observing the observation target S fixed between the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b. The observation means 4 is not particularly limited as long as it can acquire observation data of the observation object S. Examples include image acquisition means for acquiring information related to the shape of the observation object S, optical analysis means, radiation analysis means, magnetic field analysis means, and electron beam diffraction means for acquiring information based on various analyses of the observation object S. The observation means 4 in this embodiment may be configured as a microscope. In particular, it is preferable to use an optical microscope. This makes it possible to obtain an enlarged image of the observation target S and to observe it in detail, and also makes it easy to combine it with various analysis means.

[0056] The observation means 4 may include an objective lens 40, an eyepiece, and a reflector (light source) that are generally used in observations using an optical microscope. It is preferable to provide an image acquisition means (such as a CCD camera) for acquiring images instead of the eyepiece, thereby enabling automatic collection of image data. This makes it possible to improve the efficiency of work related to acquisition and analysis of observation data. Note that FIG. 1 illustrates only the objective lens 40 as the observation means 4, and omits other components. In the observation system 1A of this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, two sheets (a first sheet 2a and a second sheet 2b) held by a sheet moving mechanism 5 are placed below the objective lens 40, and an observation object S fixed between the two sheets is observed, so it is not necessary to provide a stage as in a general optical microscope. 1 shows the structure of an upright microscope in which the objective lens 40 is above the observation object S, but the present invention is not limited to this, and may also use the structure of an inverted microscope in which the objective lens 40 is below the observation object S. Also, a plurality of objective lenses 40 may be provided to observe the observation object S from a plurality of directions.

[0057] It is preferable to organize and analyze the observation data obtained by the observation means 4 as necessary. For example, a data storage unit and a data analysis unit that accumulate and analyze data can be provided, and the necessary calculation processing can be performed by inputting the observation data. This makes it possible to create a database of the observation data related to the observation object S and to make effective use of the data.

[0058] The seat moving mechanism 5 supports and moves the first seat 2a and the second seat 2b. The sheet moving mechanism 5 includes unwinding rolls 50a and 50b as an unwinding section 50 that unwinds and supplies the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b, and winding rolls 51a and 51b as a winding section 51 that winds and collects the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b, and a drive unit for rotating and driving the winding section 51 (winding rolls 51a and 51b) is provided (not shown). Note that FIG. 1 shows a winding section 51 having winding rolls 51a and 51b, but is not limited thereto. For example, the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b unwound from the unwinding section 50 (unwinding rolls 50a and 50b) may be wound and collected by one winding roll. This makes it possible to simplify the structure of the device.

[0059] The sheet moving mechanism 5 preferably has a speed adjusting function 53 for adjusting the moving speed of the sheet. For example, the speed adjusting function 53 may be provided with a rotation drive control unit 53a capable of recording the number of rotations or measuring the winding diameter and controlling the number of rotations for a drive unit related to the rotation drive of the winding unit 51. This makes it possible to adjust the winding (recovery) speed of the sheet, and thus the moving speed of the sheet.

[0060] By providing the sheet moving mechanism 5 with a speed adjustment function 53, it becomes possible to control the amount of the observation target S dropped from the placement means 3 and placed on the first sheet 2a. Fig. 2 is a schematic diagram showing the change in the amount of liquid in the observation object S placed on the first sheet 2a in accordance with the sheet moving speed. Note that Fig. 2 is a plan view of the first sheet 2a as viewed from above. When a certain amount of the observation object S is dropped onto the first sheet 2a by the dispensing unit 30 and the supply unit 31 of the arrangement means 3, if the moving speed of the sheet is appropriate, as shown in FIG. 2A, the certain amount of the observation object S dropped by the arrangement means 3 is arranged on the first sheet 2a as one droplet. On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 2B, if the moving speed of the sheet becomes slow, the observation object S becomes elongated along the moving direction of the sheet, and the observation field at the time of observation is unnecessarily widened. Also, as shown in FIG. 2C, if the moving speed of the sheet becomes fast, the certain amount of the observation object S dropped by the arrangement means 3 is distributed into multiple droplets. Therefore, by controlling the rotation drive control unit 53a as the speed adjustment function 53 so that the moving speed of the sheet is appropriate, it is possible to make the liquid amount and the droplet shape of the observation object S arranged on the first sheet 2a suitable for observation by the observation means 4. 2, the sheet moving speed when a certain amount of the observation target S dropped by the arrangement means 3 is arranged as one droplet is expressed as the appropriate speed, but whether the sheet moving speed is appropriate or not may be set depending on whether it satisfies a desired amount as the liquid amount (distribution amount) of the observation target S to be arranged on the first sheet 2a. For example, the sheet moving speed when a certain amount of the observation target S is dropped by the arrangement means 3 and arranged so as to be distributed to multiple places on the first sheet 2a as shown in FIG. 2C may be set as the appropriate speed.

[0061] The sheet moving mechanism 5 in this embodiment may have a function of controlling the movement and stopping of the sheet in addition to a speed adjustment function 53 for adjusting the moving speed of the sheet. For example, the driving unit for the rotational drive of the winding unit 51 may be controlled to move the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b a certain distance or for a certain time, and then stop them for a certain time. Here, this control may be performed by the rotational drive control unit 53a, or a separate control unit may be provided. As a result, when observing the observation target S with the observation means 4, the observation target S can be moved intermittently and observed while the observation target S is in a stationary state, which makes it possible to improve the accuracy of the observation. Further, another example of the control related to the sheet movement in the sheet moving mechanism 5 is to switch between different operation modes, such as an operation of repeating movement and stopping of the sheet as an operation mode for observing the observation object S, and an operation of moving the sheet at a constant speed as an operation mode for arranging the observation object S. This allows more freedom in setting the observation conditions in the observation means 4, and allows the observation object S to be arranged more accurately.

[0062] The sheet moving mechanism 5 in this embodiment may be provided with a tension control means for controlling the tension of the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b. For example, a tension detection unit may be provided between the unwinding unit 50 and the winding unit 51. This allows the tension of the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b to be controlled more precisely, and it is possible to reduce distortion of the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b and deviation in the moving speed of the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b, thereby improving the accuracy of observation. Other examples of the tension control means include providing a drive unit and a rotation drive control unit related to the rotation drive in the unwinding unit 50, and installing a rotation drive unit as a sheet feeding unit between the unwinding unit 50 and the dispensing unit 30. This allows the tension to be controlled more precisely.

[0063] In the sheet moving mechanism 5 in this embodiment, it is preferable that either or both of the unwinding roll 50a and the winding roll 51a that support and move the first sheet 2a, and the unwinding roll 50b and the winding roll 51b that support and move the second sheet 2b, are vertically movable, which makes it possible to adjust the distance between the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b.

[0064] As shown in FIG. 1, it is preferable to provide a plurality of support rollers 52a that can move up and down as a support mechanism 52 for applying an appropriate tension to the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b and overlapping the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b. This allows the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b to be moved stably. Furthermore, by providing the support mechanism 52, the accuracy of the position adjustment for overlapping the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b can be improved, and the distance between the two sheets can be easily adjusted. Note that, although FIG. 1 shows the support mechanism 52 provided on the second sheet 2b side, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the support mechanism 52 may be provided on the first sheet 2a side, or on both the first sheet 2a side and the second sheet 2b side. Furthermore, there is no particular limitation on the location and number of the support mechanisms 52. 1, support mechanisms 52 may be provided on both the upstream and downstream sides of the objective lens 40 in the observation means 4 in the sheet movement direction and above the sheet (above the second sheet 2b), enabling stable support of the sheet. Another example is providing the support mechanism 52 below the sheet (below the first sheet 2a) or on the side of each sheet where the observation target S is placed. Also, the number of support mechanisms 52 may be reduced to simplify the structure.

[0065] The support mechanism 52 may also be provided with a speed adjustment function 53 for adjusting the moving speed of the sheet. For example, a measuring unit for measuring the number of rotations or the rotation speed of the support roller 52a and a rotation drive control unit capable of controlling the rotation drive of the support roller 52a may be provided. Each sheet (first sheet 2a and second sheet 2b) moves in accordance with the rotation drive of the support roller 52a. Therefore, by controlling the rotation drive of the support roller 52a, it is possible to adjust the moving speed of the sheet.

[0066] Furthermore, in addition to the support mechanism 52, an adjustment mechanism 54 for adjusting the distance between the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b may be provided separately. Fig. 3 is a schematic explanatory diagram showing another aspect of the observation system 1A in the first embodiment of the present invention. Note that in Fig. 3, the arrangement means 3 other than the dispensing unit 30 is omitted. Also, the description of the same configuration as that shown in Fig. 1 is omitted. The adjustment mechanism 54 may be, for example, a pressing member that presses the sheet (first sheet 2a or second sheet 2b) near the objective lens 40 of the observation means 4 from below or above. Note that Fig. 3 shows the adjustment mechanism 54 provided with a pressing member 54a that presses up the first sheet 2a from below. The pressing member 54a is also provided with a mechanism (not shown) that allows it to move up and down. The pressing member 54a preferably has a structure having a space for ensuring an observation field by the observation means 4. A specific example of the pressing member 54a is a cylindrical member having a cavity. This makes it possible to ensure an observation field by the observation means 4 and to evenly press up the first sheet 2a.

[0067] (Seat arrangement adjustment mechanism) As described above, the distance and alignment between the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b affect stable fixation of the observation target S, improvement of observation accuracy, etc. For this reason, it is preferable that the observation means 4 in the observation system 1A of this embodiment be provided with a sheet arrangement adjustment mechanism 6 equipped with an adjustment means for the distance and alignment between the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b, and a function for improving observation accuracy.

[0068] Fig. 4 is a schematic explanatory diagram showing the structure of the seat arrangement adjustment mechanism in the observation system 1A of this embodiment. Note that Fig. 4 is a schematic explanatory diagram enlarging the parts related to the observation means 4 and the seat arrangement adjustment mechanism 6 in the observation system 1A, and some parts of the arrangement means 3 and the seat moving mechanism 5 are not shown. Also, explanations of the same configurations as those shown in Fig. 1 are omitted. The seat arrangement adjustment mechanism 6 in this embodiment includes a fixing jig 61 for attaching the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b, and a support part 62 for maintaining the smooth surfaces of the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b.

[0069] The fixing jig 61 is a means to which the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b are attached, and is used to adjust the distance and alignment of the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b with respect to the observation means 4. The fixing jig 61 may be any device capable of adjusting the distance and alignment of the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b with respect to the observation field of the observation means 4, and the specific structure is not particularly limited. An example of the structure of the fixing jig 61 will be described later. The material of the fixing jig 61 is not particularly limited. Examples of the material include a single or multiple materials such as metal, resin, glass, ceramic, rubber, and wood. Since the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b attached to the fixing jig 61 come into contact with the fixing jig 61 when they are moved, the fixing jig 61 may be painted or surface-treated in consideration of the frictional force (friction coefficient) between the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b. The fixing jig 61 may also be provided with a static elimination mechanism. This allows the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b to move smoothly via the fixing jig 61. The fixing jig 61 may be provided with a function other than that related to the attachment of the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b, for example, the surface of the member 610 may be provided with antibacterial, germicidal, water-repellent, hydrophobic, etc. Furthermore, the fixing jig 61 may be provided with a temperature adjustment function so that it also functions as an incubator or a heat panel. This makes it possible to adjust conditions (increase in the number of observation objects S (cultivation) and activity state of the observation object S) suitable for observation, particularly when the observation object S is a living organism.

[0070] The support section 62 is a means for maintaining the smooth surfaces of the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b. The support section 62 may be any structure capable of maintaining the smooth surfaces of the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b so that the moving first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b are not distorted or bent, and the holding of the observation target S and the observation accuracy are not affected, and the specific structure is not particularly limited. An example of the structure of the support section 62 will be described later. The material of the support portion 62 is not particularly limited. Examples of the material include a single or multiple materials such as metal, resin, glass, ceramic, rubber, and wood. Since the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b come into contact with the support portion 62 when they move, the support portion 62 may be painted or surface-treated in consideration of the frictional force (friction coefficient) between the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b. The support portion 62 may also be provided with a static elimination mechanism. This allows the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b to move smoothly via the support portion 62. The support portion 62 may be provided with other functions, such as antibacterial, germicidal, water-repellent, and hydrophobic functions.

[0071] As an example of the structure of the fixing jig 61, as shown in FIG. 4, a rectangular parallelepiped member 610 having spaces (slits, gaps, etc.) for attaching the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b can be used. As shown in FIG. 4, the fixing jig 61 has a hole 611a for providing a range 611 (a range corresponding to the observation field of the observation means 4) in which the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b are exposed. The size of the range 611 (hole 611a) is not particularly limited as long as it is a size that allows the observation object S to be observed by the observation means 4. For example, when the observation means 4 is a microscope, the size of the range 611 (hole 611a) can be a size corresponding to the lens diameter of the objective lens 40.

[0072] As shown in FIG. 4, the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b pass through the space of the member 610, and the movement of the sheets is restricted by the inner wall surface of the member 610. At this time, by arranging the range 611 (hole 611a) of the fixing jig 61 so as to be within the observation field of the observation means 4, the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b can be reliably aligned. In other words, it becomes easy to ensure that the observation target S is within the observation field of the observation means 4. In addition, the spatial height of the member 610 (length in the Z direction in FIG. 4) defines the distance between the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b. Therefore, by providing the fixing jig 61, it becomes possible to easily perform the distance and alignment of the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b.

[0073] When the observation means 4 is a microscope, the member 610 preferably has a structure that allows it to be placed and fixed on the stage of the microscope. For example, the member 610 may be provided with a locking means (screw, clip, etc.) for locking the member 610 to the stage of the microscope, or with an adhesive means (adhesive, adhesive tape, etc.) for bonding the member 610 to the stage of the microscope, or with a structure that fits into the stage of the microscope. The member 610 may also be provided with a structure that allows the use of a fixing member for the slide glass provided on the stage of the microscope. This makes it possible to easily perform the work of aligning the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b with respect to the observation means 4. Here, the object to which the member 610 of the fixing jig 61 is fixed is not limited to the stage of a microscope, and other objects to which the member 610 can be fixed include the microscope body and a table on which the microscope is installed (such as a vibration isolation table). In addition, when the member 610 is arranged and fixed to the stage of the microscope, it is not limited to being arranged and fixed directly on the stage of the microscope. For example, an auxiliary member that connects the stage of the microscope and the member 610 may be provided, and the member 610 may be fixed to the stage of the microscope via the auxiliary member.

[0074] Moreover, the configuration of the member 610 and the area 611 in the fixing jig 61 is not limited to that shown in Fig. 4. Other examples of the fixing jig 61 in this embodiment will be described with reference to Figs.

[0075] Fig. 5 is a schematic explanatory diagram showing another example of the fixing jig in the seat arrangement adjustment mechanism of the present embodiment. Note that Fig. 5 is a YZ plan view of Fig. 4, and the hole 611a is not shown. The member 610 of the fixing jig 61 is not limited to the rectangular parallelepiped shape shown in Fig. 4. For example, as shown in Fig. 5A, the member 610 may be a rectangular parallelepiped with some or both sides open. This makes it possible to easily attach the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b. Furthermore, in order to improve the accuracy of the alignment of the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b by the member 610, a structure 612 for more reliably restricting the movement of the sheet may be provided in the member 610. For example, as shown in Fig. 5B, a protrusion 612a or a guide member 612b may be provided on the member 610. This makes it possible to more reliably adjust the distance and alignment of the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b.

[0076] 5C, member 610 of fixing jig 61 may be structured to be partially separable and may be composed of a plurality of structures such as members 610a and 610b. This makes it possible to easily attach first sheet 2a and second sheet 2b to sheet arrangement adjustment mechanism 6 before carrying out the process related to observation. In this case, the separable structure (members 610a, 610b) may be provided with an adjustment mechanism that allows the spatial height (Z direction in FIG. 5) and width (Y direction in FIG. 5) of the member 610 to be adjusted. For example, a fitting structure that allows the fixing position to be changed in multiple stages when the members 610a and 610b are combined may be provided, or a locking member (clip, screw, rubber band, etc.) that can lock the members 610a and 610b at any position may be used. This allows the adjustable range of the distance and alignment between the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b to be expanded, and the application range of requirements related to observation by the observation system 1A of this embodiment (such as the type of observation target S and the size of the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b) can be expanded.

[0077] Fig. 6 is also a schematic explanatory diagram showing another aspect of the fixing jig in the seat arrangement adjustment mechanism of this embodiment. Fig. 6 shows a plan view (XY plan view in Fig. 4) seen from the observation means 4 side in Fig. 4 and a II cross-sectional view (YZ plan view in Fig. 4). 6, in order to form the range 611 of the fixing jig 61, the sheet arrangement adjustment mechanism 6 may be configured such that the shape of the member 610 has a U-shaped cross section that extends over both widthwise ends of the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b (FIG. 6A), or the member 610 is provided outside the range 611 (FIG. 6B). This makes it possible to form the range 611 without providing holes 611a.

[0078] One example of the structure of the support part 62 is one consisting of a support member 620 that supplies the first sheet 2a and / or the second sheet 2b toward the fixing jig 61 while applying an appropriate tension to the first sheet 2a and / or the second sheet 2b, as shown in Figure 4. The support member 620 has a contact portion 620a that comes into contact with the first sheet 2a and / or the second sheet 2b supplied from the unwinding portion 50 of the sheet moving mechanism 5, and as the sheets move via this contact portion 620a, an appropriate tension is applied to the first sheet 2a and / or the second sheet 2b, making it possible to suppress the occurrence of distortion or bending of the sheets. In addition, while FIG. 4 shows the support portion 62 being provided on the first sheet 2a side, this is not limited to this and it may be provided on the second sheet 2b side, or on both the first sheet 2a side and the second sheet 2b side. Further, there is no particular limitation on the location and number of the support parts 62. For example, as shown in Fig. 4, the support parts 62 may be provided on the upstream side, downstream side, or both the upstream side and downstream side of the objective lens 40 in the observation means 4 in the moving direction of the sheet. In this case, a plurality of support parts 62 may be provided continuously on the upstream side and / or downstream side. Furthermore, the support section 62 may also serve as the support mechanism 52 described above, thereby reducing the number of components in the observation system 1A.

[0079] The shapes of the support member 620 and the contact portion 620a are not particularly limited. For example, as shown in Fig. 4, the shape of the support member 620 may be a rectangular parallelepiped, and the contact portion 620a may be a rectangular planar shape. Other examples include a columnar shape of the support member 620 with a polygonal or circular cross section (XZ plane in Fig. 4), and the contact portion 620a may be a linear shape formed by contact between the apex of the polygon and the sheet, a planar shape formed by contact between the polygonal surface and the sheet, or an arc shape formed by contact between the circular surface and the sheet. Furthermore, the support member 620 may be a fixed rectangular parallelepiped (columnar body) as shown in FIG. 4, or may be a cylindrical body that is rotatably driven, such as a roller. When the supporting members 620 are provided on the first sheet 2a side and the second sheet 2b side, the shapes of the supporting members 620 may be the same or different. When the supporting members 620 are provided on the upstream side and the downstream side in the moving direction of the sheet, the shapes of the supporting members 620 may be the same or different.

[0080] The seat arrangement adjustment mechanism 6 in this embodiment may be configured such that the fixing jig 61 and the support portion 62 are integrated together. FIG. 7 is a schematic explanatory diagram showing another aspect of the seat arrangement adjusting mechanism of this embodiment. As shown in Fig. 7, the first sheet 2a and / or the second sheet 2b are supplied obliquely at the end of the member 610 in the length direction (X direction in Fig. 4) in the fixing jig 61, so that each sheet is supplied into the member 610 under tension. This causes the end of the member 610 in the length direction to function as the contact portion 620a of the support portion 62. In addition, the member 610 may be integrated with the structure of the supporting member 620 described above. This makes it possible to reduce the number of members in the seat arrangement adjustment mechanism 6.

[0081] The sheet arrangement adjustment mechanism 6 in this embodiment may be provided with a function that is useful not only when the sheets are moved but also when they are observed, as a means for adjusting the distance and alignment between the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b, as well as a function for improving observation accuracy. FIG. 8 is a schematic explanatory diagram showing another aspect of the seat arrangement adjusting mechanism of this embodiment. 8, the sheet arrangement adjustment mechanism 6 in this embodiment includes a sheet fixing portion 621 that fixes the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b to a fixing jig 61 as a support portion 62. This makes it possible to maintain the smooth surface of the sheet and suppress the occurrence of distortion or bending of the sheet, not only when the movement of the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b is stopped during observation, but also when the fixing jig 61 is moved to align the sheet with the observation field of the observation means 4. The sheet fixing part 621 may be any one capable of fixing the first sheet 2a and / or the second sheet 2b to the member 610 of the fixing jig 61, and the specific structure is not particularly limited. For example, as shown in FIG. 8A, a structure capable of moving up and down within the member 610 of the fixing jig 61 is provided as the sheet fixing part 621, and the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b are pressed against the member 610 via the sheet fixing part 621. As another example, as shown in FIG. 8B, a structure capable of moving laterally is provided as the sheet fixing part 621 against the side surface (open surface) of the member 610 of the fixing jig 61, and the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b are fixed by pressing them against the member 610 via the sheet fixing part 621. Furthermore, the means for fixing the sheet by the sheet fixing part 621 is not limited to pressing a structure that can move up and down or laterally. For example, the sheet fixing part 621 may be made of a material with a large frictional force (friction coefficient) such as rubber, and the sheet may be fixed by friction. In this case, by using a roller made of a material with a large frictional force as the sheet fixing part 621, it is possible to restrict the movement of the sheet by friction. This makes it possible to move the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b while suppressing distortion or bending of the sheet, and to move the fixing jig 61 to align the sheet with the observation field of the observation means 4.

[0082] In the observation system 1A of this embodiment, the provision of a sheet arrangement adjustment mechanism makes it easy to adjust the distance and alignment between the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b, suppresses distortion or bending of the sheet during observation of the observation object, and enables the observation object to be securely fixed and the observation accuracy to be improved. This makes it possible to further improve the efficiency of the work related to sample preparation and the work related to observation of the observation object. In addition, the configuration related to the seat arrangement adjustment mechanism can be made independent as the seat arrangement adjustment mechanism of the present invention. By applying this seat arrangement adjustment mechanism to an existing observation means 4 (e.g., a microscope, etc.), it is possible to provide the observation system and observation means of the present invention without requiring a large-scale device update.

[0083] (Sheet supply / collection cartridge) Regarding the supply and recovery of sheets in the observation system 1A of this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, a sheet supply and recovery mechanism other than the unwinding rolls 50a, 50b as an unwinding section 50 that unwinds and supplies the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b, and the winding rolls 51a, 51b as a winding section 51 that winds and recovers the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b, may be provided.

[0084] An example of such a sheet supply / recovery mechanism is a cartridge type that houses the functions related to sheet supply and recovery in a casing. By using a cartridge type mechanism for sheet supply / recovery, it becomes easy to replace and store the sheet. In addition, since the sheet is inside the casing, it becomes easy to prevent foreign matter from being mixed in or attached to the sheet before supply or after recovery during observation or sheet movement.

[0085] First, an example of a sheet supply cartridge will be described. FIG. 9 is a schematic explanatory diagram of a sheet supply cartridge in the observation system 1A of this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 9, the sheet supply cartridge 7 of this embodiment includes a storage section 70 that stores a sheet (a first sheet 2a in FIG. 9A) on which an observation object S is arranged so that the sheet can be fed out.

[0086] The storage section 70 in the sheet supply cartridge 7 of this embodiment may be any section that stores a sheet (the first sheet 2a or the second sheet 2b) and feeds the stored sheet toward the observation means 4 or the sheet arrangement adjustment mechanism 6 via the sheet moving mechanism 5, and may, for example, be provided with a casing 71, a shaft 72, and a power transmission section 73, as shown in Figure 9. The casing 71 has a shaft 72 around which a sheet is wound and a power transmission unit 73 connected to the shaft 72 and transmitting power for rotational drive to the shaft 72, and is provided with a sheet supply port 71a for feeding the sheet out of the casing 71. In this case, it is preferable to use a rotation drive unit that is engaged and connected to the power transmission unit 73 and rotates the sheet moving mechanism 5 as the sheet moving mechanism 5. As a result, the sheet feeding cartridge 7 of this embodiment can complete operations related to sheet feeding and sheet replacement by a simple operation of engaging the power transmission unit 73 with the sheet moving mechanism 5 (rotation drive unit). In particular, by connecting the sheet moving mechanism 5 and the power transmission unit 73 so that the engagement position is always constant, the operation related to alignment in sheet feeding is simplified, and the efficiency of observation work can be further improved.

[0087] It is preferable that the casing 71 has a separable structure. This makes it easy to remove the shaft 72 from inside the casing 71 when the sheet wound around the shaft 72 runs out and replace it with a new shaft 72 with the sheet wound around it. This makes it possible to use the casing 71 repeatedly.

[0088] The sheet supply port 71a of the casing 71 is preferably sealed with a thin film (seal) with an adhesive to prevent foreign matter from entering the casing 71 before use. The thin film used for sealing may be used to connect the sheets together when replacing the sheets. This makes the work of replacing the sheets easier. Furthermore, the sheet supply port 71a may be provided with a sheet locking structure that locks the sheet to prevent the sheet from being drawn into the casing 71. Examples of such a sheet locking structure include providing the sheet supply port 71a with a structure made of a material with a high frictional force (friction coefficient) or providing a structure such as a check valve. The sheet may be locked using the above-mentioned thin sealing film (seal). Furthermore, the sheet supply port 71a may be provided with a mechanism for cutting the sheet. This makes it easy to cut off the sheet after observation is completed, and makes it easy to collect the sheet supplied for observation and store the sheet before supply. In this case, it is preferable to provide a structure for cutting the sheet so that the cut edge of the sheet is oblique. This makes it easy to introduce the sheet into the sheet arrangement adjustment mechanism 6 when supplying it again.

[0089] Regarding the sheet supply cartridges 7 of this embodiment, the number of cartridges to be used is not particularly limited. For example, as shown in Fig. 9A, an independent storage section 70 may be provided for each sheet (first sheet 2a and second sheet 2b), and multiple cartridges may be used to supply the sheets. When multiple sheet supply cartridges 7 are used, as shown in Fig. 9A, a power transmission section 73 may be provided for each shaft 72 of each casing 71, or one power transmission section 73 may be connected to multiple shafts 72 to transmit power related to the rotational drive. 9B, the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b may be stored in a casing 71 of the storage section 70, and one cartridge may be used to supply the sheets. In this case, it is preferable to use a structure in which one power transmission section 73 transmits power for rotational drive to two shafts 72. This allows the casing 71 to be made compact, and the configuration of the sheet moving mechanism 5 to be simplified.

[0090] The structure of the storage section 70 of this embodiment is not limited to that shown in FIG. For example, as shown in Fig. 9, the shaft 72 is not limited to a structure in which the sheet is directly wound around it, but may have a structure in which a separate structure around which the sheet is wound is provided and this structure is fitted and connected to the shaft 72. When a separate structure around which the sheet is wound is provided, it is possible to suppress the effect of the winding of the sheet on the shaft 72. 9, the power transmission unit 73 is not limited to a structure in which it is provided separately from the shaft 72, but may be integrated with the shaft 72. When the shaft 72 and the power transmission unit 73 are integrated with each other, the casing 71 can be made smaller.

[0091] Furthermore, when the observation object S is a living body, it is preferable to sterilize the sheet before placing the observation object S. Therefore, it is preferable that the storage section 70 is made of a material that can be sterilized by autoclave or electromagnetic waves (electron beam, ultraviolet light, etc.). Examples of such materials include glass and resin.

[0092] Next, an example of the sheet recovery cartridge will be described. FIG. 10 is a schematic explanatory diagram of a sheet recovery cartridge in the observation system 1A of this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 10, the sheet recovery cartridge 8 of this embodiment includes a recovery section 80 that recovers and stores a sheet (the first sheet 2a in FIG. 10A) on which the observation target S is placed.

[0093] The collection section 80 in the sheet collection cartridge 8 of this embodiment may be any section that collects and stores a sheet (first sheet 2a or second sheet 2b) sent from the observation means 4 or the sheet position adjustment mechanism 6 via the sheet moving mechanism 5, and may, for example, be equipped with a casing 81, a shaft 82, and a power transmission section 83, as shown in Figure 10. The casing 81 contains an axis 82 around which the sheet is wound, and a power transmission unit 83 connected to the axis 82 and transmitting power for rotational drive to the axis 82, and is provided with a sheet collection port 81a through which the sheet is fed from the outside of the casing 81. In this case, it is preferable to use a rotational drive unit that is engaged and connected to the power transmission unit 83 and rotates the sheet moving mechanism 5. As a result, the sheet collection cartridge 8 of this embodiment can complete the operation for collecting the sheet by a simple operation of engaging the power transmission unit 83 with the sheet moving mechanism 5 (rotational drive unit). In particular, by connecting the sheet moving mechanism 5 and the power transmission unit 83 so that the engagement position is always constant, the operation for aligning the sheet when collecting the sheet is simplified, and the efficiency of the observation work can be further improved.

[0094] It is preferable that the casing 81 has a separable structure. This makes it easy to remove the sheet together with the shaft 82 from inside the casing 81 when the amount of sheet wound around the shaft 82 reaches the allowable upper limit, and to replace it with a new shaft 82. This makes it possible to use the casing 81 repeatedly.

[0095] The sheet collection port 81a of the casing 81 is preferably sealed with a thin film (seal) with an adhesive to prevent foreign matter from entering the casing 81 before use. The thin film used for sealing may be used to connect the sheets together when collecting the sheets. This makes the sheet collection process easier. The sheet collection port 81a may also be provided with a sheet locking structure that locks the sheet to prevent the sheet from being pulled into the casing 81. Examples of such a sheet locking structure include providing the sheet collection port 81a with a structure made of a material with a high frictional force (friction coefficient) or providing a structure such as a check valve. The sheet may also be locked using the above-mentioned thin sealing film (seal).

[0096] Regarding the sheet recovery cartridges 8 of this embodiment, the number of cartridges to be used is not particularly limited. For example, as shown in Fig. 10A, an independent recovery section 80 may be provided for each sheet (first sheet 2a and second sheet 2b), and multiple cartridges may be used for recovering the sheets. When multiple sheet recovery cartridges 8 are used, as shown in Fig. 10A, a power transmission section 83 may be provided for each shaft 82 of each casing 81, or one power transmission section 83 may be connected to multiple shafts 82 to transmit power for rotational drive. 10B, two shafts 82 for winding the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b may be disposed inside the casing 81 of the collection unit 80, and one cartridge may be used for collecting the sheets. In this case, it is preferable to use a structure in which one power transmission unit 83 transmits power for rotational drive to the two shafts 82. This allows the casing 81 to be made smaller, and the configuration of the sheet moving mechanism 5 to be simplified. Furthermore, a plurality of sheets (both the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b) may be collected in one cartridge by winding the plurality of sheets (both the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b) around a single shaft 82 provided inside the casing 81. This allows the casing 81 to be made even more compact.

[0097] The structure of the recovery section 80 in this embodiment is not limited to that shown in FIG. For example, as shown in Fig. 10, the shaft 82 is not limited to a structure in which the sheet is directly wound around it, but may have a structure in which a separate structure around which the sheet is wound is provided and this structure is fitted and connected to the shaft 82. When a separate structure around which the sheet is wound is provided, it is possible to suppress the effect of the sheet winding on the shaft 82. 10, the power transmission unit 83 is not limited to a structure in which it is provided separately from the shaft 82, but may be integrated with the shaft 82. When the shaft 82 and the power transmission unit 83 are integrated with each other, the casing 81 can be made smaller.

[0098] Furthermore, when the observation subject S is a living organism, it is preferable to perform post-processing for safe disposal of the collected sheet. Therefore, it is preferable that the collection section 80 is made of a material that can be sterilized in an autoclave or with electromagnetic waves (electron beams, ultraviolet rays, etc.) or incinerated. Examples of such materials include glass and resin, and it is particularly preferable to use a material made of resin that does not generate harmful substances when incinerated.

[0099] In the observation system 1A of this embodiment, by providing a cartridge for supplying and collecting sheets, it is possible to easily supply and collect the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b, and to easily perform sheet replacement and storage. This makes it possible to further improve the efficiency of sample preparation and observation of the observation target. Furthermore, the configuration related to the sheet supply / recovery cartridge can be made independent as the sheet supply / recovery cartridge of the present invention. By applying this sheet supply / recovery cartridge to an existing observation means 4 (e.g., a microscope, etc.), the observation system and observation means of the present invention can be provided without requiring major equipment updates.

[0100] In addition, the observation system 1A in this embodiment is preferably provided with a control means C that adjusts various operations in the arrangement means 3, the observation means 4, and the sheet moving mechanism 5. More specifically, as shown in Fig. 1, a control unit C1 is provided that is connected to the arrangement means 3, the observation means 4, and the sheet moving mechanism 5 and enables input / output and control of data. A control unit C1 may be provided for each of the various means, but as shown in Fig. 1, it is preferable to connect multiple means to one control unit C1 and enable comprehensive control. This makes it possible to easily and efficiently adjust the various operations and perform operations related to the adjustments. Here, examples of the operations to be controlled by the control unit C1 include operations related to the operation of the observation means 4, operations related to the acquisition and storage of observation data by the observation means 4, operations of arranging the observation target S on the sheet (first sheet 2a) by driving control of the supply unit 31 and the control mechanism 32 of the arrangement means 3 based on data related to the observation result by the observation means 4, operations directly related to the horizontal movement of the sheet, such as the sheet moving speed and the movement / stop of the sheet by the speed adjustment function 53 (rotation drive control unit 53a) and the rotation drive control of the support mechanism 52 in the sheet moving mechanism 5, and sheet operations such as operations related to assisting the horizontal movement of the sheet by driving control of the support mechanism 52 and the adjustment mechanism 54. In addition, it is preferable to control not only individual operations of each means, but also operations resulting from a combination of multiple operations of each means. For example, a series of operations such as the acquisition of observation data by the observation means 4 in accordance with the timing when the sheet movement mechanism 5 stops the movement of the sheet, and a series of operations related to the arrangement means 3, the observation means 4, and the sheet moving mechanism 5 for each observation target S for multiple observation targets S can be controlled. This makes it possible to improve the accuracy of the observation data acquired by the observation means 4 and improve the efficiency of the work involved in the observation.

[0101] Hereinafter, more specific examples of operations to be controlled by the control means C (control unit C1) in this embodiment will be listed, but the present invention is not limited to these. For example, actions relating to the operation of the observation means 4 include the operation of a microscope or a camera. Operations related to the acquisition and storage of observation data by the observation means 4 include, for acquisition of observation data, setting and selection of the observation method using a microscope, the observation time and observation conditions (magnification, etc.), as well as the photographing method using a camera, the photographing time, the number of photographs and the photographing conditions, etc. Meanwhile, for storage of observation data, setting and selection of the data name, data storage format and data storage location, etc. In addition, the operation of placing the object S to be observed on the sheet (first sheet 2a) by the placement means 3 includes setting and selecting the supply amount, supply speed, supply interval, etc. when placing (supplying) the object S to be observed on the sheet. Furthermore, the sheet operations related to the sheet moving mechanism 5 include setting and selection of the sheet movement speed, movement time, stopping time, and time until switching the type of observation object S, as well as judgment and execution regarding emergency stops, and management of the sheet quantity. As described above, any one of these actions may be the object of control, or any combination of a plurality of actions may be the object of control. From the viewpoint of improving the efficiency of the observation work, it is preferable to control a plurality of actions.

[0102] The observation system 1A in this embodiment may be provided with configurations other than those described above. For example, the observation system 1A in this embodiment is preferably provided with a means for preventing the intrusion of impurities from the outside. Such a means may include providing a sealed section capable of housing the arrangement means 3 and the sheet moving mechanism 5, and blocking contact with the external environment. The entire observation system 1A may be installed in an environment such as a clean room or clean bench. This makes it possible to suppress the influence of impurities from the outside during observation. Also, a member for more reliably suppressing the intrusion of impurities from the outside may be further provided. Examples of such a member include providing a filter or the like in the sealed section. Incidentally, the intrusion of impurities from the outside may be prevented by using a sheet supply cartridge 7 and a sheet recovery cartridge 8.

[0103] As another means for preventing the intrusion of external impurities, a static elimination mechanism such as an ionizer may be provided in the observation system 1A in this embodiment to eliminate static electricity from the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b. This makes it possible to reduce adhesion of impurities to the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b, and also to reduce the effect of static electricity on other devices.

[0104] As described above, the observation system and observation method of this embodiment allow the observation object to be placed and fixed between two sheets and observed in this state, thereby enabling sample preparation and observation without the need to prepare a slide using a cover glass and a slide glass. This significantly simplifies the steps involved in sample preparation and enables observation work to be performed quickly. In addition, since the observation object is fixed between two sheets, no external force stronger than necessary is applied to the observation object. This makes it easy to handle living organisms such as living cells and living microorganisms as the observation object. Therefore, the observation system and observation method of this embodiment can improve the work efficiency related to the observation of a large number of observation objects, and can also improve the work efficiency in database creation of observation data related to living organisms and effective use of the data.

[0105] In addition, the sheet placement adjustment mechanism of this embodiment makes it easy to adjust the distance and alignment between the first sheet and the second sheet, suppresses distortion or bending of the sheets when observing the object to be observed, ensures secure fixation of the object to be observed, and improves observation accuracy. Furthermore, the sheet supply cartridge and sheet recovery cartridge of this embodiment make it easy to supply and recover the first sheet and the second sheet, and makes it possible to easily perform tasks such as sheet replacement and storage. This makes it possible to achieve even greater efficiency in the work related to sample preparation and the work related to observation of the object to be observed.

[0106] [Second embodiment] Fig. 11 is a schematic explanatory diagram showing an observation system in the second embodiment of the present invention, and Fig. 12 is a schematic explanatory diagram showing another aspect of the observation system in the second embodiment of the present invention. The observation system 1B according to the second embodiment is configured by providing a recovery means 9 for recovering the observation target S after the observation means 4 in addition to the components of the observation system 1A in the first embodiment. Note that a description of the same components as those in the first embodiment will be omitted.

[0107] The observation system 1B in this embodiment includes a recovery means 9 that recovers the observation target S after observation by the observation means 4. The recovery means 9 is not particularly limited as long as it can recover the observation target S.

[0108] An example of the recovery means 9 is a means for removing the observation target S fixed between the sheets after peeling off the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b.

[0109] One example of the recovery means 9 in this embodiment is to provide a suction section 90 that sucks up the observation object S on the first sheet 2a as a means for peeling off the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b by making the movement directions of the sheets different downstream of the observation means 4 via a support mechanism 52 (support roller 52a) as shown in Figure 11, and extracting the observation object S that was fixed between the sheets.

[0110] The suction unit 90 is not particularly limited as long as it can suck and recover the observation target S. For example, it may be a device that sucks up liquid using a tip or a syringe connected to a suction device (such as a vacuum pump). In addition, the suction unit 90 may be provided with a mechanism that can be driven along the XYZ axes and the rotation axis, and may be capable of recovering any observation target S on the first sheet 2a.

[0111] Another example of the collecting means 9 is a means for cutting off the sheet while the observation target S is fixed between the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b. More specifically, as shown in Fig. 12, a cutting section 91 is provided downstream of the observation means 4 in the sheet movement direction, and the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b on which the observation target S is fixed are cut together and collected as a sample slice 91a. In this case, the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b are made of a material that bonds by heat, and the cutting section 91 is provided with a heatable cylindrical member and a blade-like member that can separate the sheets. In this way, by pressing the cutting section 91 from the second sheet 2b side, the sheets are bonded and separated from each other, and the sample slice 91a can be collected.

[0112] The observation object S fixed in the collected sample slice 91a can be directly collected by peeling off the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b. The observation object S may be stored in the state where it is fixed in the sample slice 91a. In this case, the collection and storage of the observation object S can be performed in an integrated manner.

[0113] The observation object S directly collected by the collection means 9 may be stored in a separate storage container. The observation object S collected as the sample slice 91a by the collection means 9 may also be stored in a separate storage container. In this case, it is preferable to link the information on the observation data of the collected observation object S with the information on the storage container so that it can be referenced. This makes it easier to make decisions regarding the utilization of the collected observation object S. Furthermore, when the observation target S is a living organism, the observation system 1B in this embodiment is capable of not only observing the living organism but also isolating and recovering a specific living organism. Furthermore, after determining the usefulness of the living organism and the necessity of proliferation from the obtained observation data for the living organism recovered in the observation system 1B, the recovered living organism may be placed in a culture medium for proliferation as necessary. In this case, the sample slice 91a may be cultured together. When culturing the sample slice 91a together, it is preferable to use materials for the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b that have physical properties such as oxygen permeability suitable for culturing the recovered living organism.

[0114] Moreover, in the observation system 1B in this embodiment, it is preferable to provide a control means C that adjusts various operations in the collection means 9 in addition to adjusting various operations in the placement means 3, observation means 4, and sheet moving mechanism 5. More specifically, as shown in Fig. 11, a control unit C2 that is connected to the placement means 3, observation means 4, sheet moving mechanism 5, and collection means 9 and enables input / output and control of data may be provided. Note that in Fig. 11, the connection between the winding roll 51b and the speed adjustment function 53 (arrow indicated by dashed line) is not shown. Here, examples of operations to be controlled by the control unit C2 include various operations related to the above-mentioned placement means 3, observation means 4, and sheet moving mechanism 5, as well as recovery operations related to the recovery means 9 (operations related to the suction unit 90 and cutting unit 91). Specific examples of the recovery operation include setting / selection of the amount of material to be aspirated and separated by the aspirator 90, and setting / selection of the timing of cutting the sheet by the cutter 91 (recovery of the sample piece 91a). In addition, it is preferable that the collection operation of the collection means 9 and the various operations of the arrangement means 3, observation means 4, and sheet moving mechanism 5 be combined to be controlled. This makes it possible to improve the efficiency of observation-related work.

[0115] In conventional observations using preparations, it is difficult to peel off the cover glass from the slide glass, and it is also difficult to retrieve the object after observation. On the other hand, in the observation system 1B of this embodiment, the two overlapping sheets can be easily peeled off, so that the observation object between the first sheet and the second sheet can be collected after observation. In particular, when a living organism is used as the observation object, it can also be used as a technique for separating and collecting a specific living organism.

[0116] [Third embodiment] FIG. 13 is a schematic explanatory diagram showing an observation system according to the third embodiment of the present invention. The observation system 1C according to the third embodiment is the observation system 1A, 1B according to the first or second embodiment, further comprising cameras 41a, 41b as the observation means 4. FIG. 13 shows an observation system 1C according to this embodiment in which cameras 41a, 41b are added to the configuration of the first embodiment. Here, explanations of the same components as those in the first embodiment will be omitted. Also, illustration and explanation of the control means C will be omitted.

[0117] The observation system 1C in this embodiment is provided with cameras 41a and 41b in addition to the configuration of a microscope as the observation means 4. The cameras 41a and 41b may be any cameras capable of obtaining an image in which the outline of the observation target S (or droplet) fixed between the sheets can be discerned, and may have a lower magnification than the objective lens 40. In addition, the locations and number of the cameras 41a and 41b are not particularly limited. For example, as shown in Fig. 13, the cameras may be provided on both the upstream side and the downstream side of the objective lens 40 in the moving direction of the sheet, or on only one side. Furthermore, the observation system 1C in this embodiment may be provided with a light source near the cameras 41a and 41b in order to, for example, sharpen the images acquired by the cameras 41a and 41b. Note that, in order to suppress effects on various analyses (particularly optical analysis and the like) in the observation means 4, a control mechanism may be provided that controls the illumination range, illumination time, illumination timing, and the like of the light source.

[0118] By providing a camera 41a upstream of the objective lens 40 and acquiring an image, it becomes possible to grasp the shape of the observation object S (or droplet) before it reaches the observation site by the objective lens 40 of the observation means 4. It also becomes possible to record the position information of the observation object S. It is preferable to grasp the position of the observation object S (or droplet) by the camera 41a, and adjust the position of the objective lens 40 and the moving speed of the sheet based on this position information. This makes it possible to improve the efficiency of the observation work. In this case, as described above, if identification information related to the position information is incorporated into the sheet, the accuracy of the position adjustment is improved. In particular, by knowing in advance that the positioning means 3 has not properly positioned the observation object S, that there is a missing sample or a state unsuitable for observation, it becomes possible to observe only the parts suitable for observation when observing with the objective lens 40. This makes it possible to improve the efficiency of the observation work.

[0119] Furthermore, by providing a camera 41b downstream of the objective lens 40 and acquiring an image, it becomes possible to record and grasp the position information of the observation target S after the observation by the objective lens 40 is completed. This makes it possible to specify the recovery position when recovering the observation target S by the recovery means 9, and makes it possible to quickly adjust the position of the recovery means 9. At this time, as described above, if identification information related to the position information is incorporated in the sheet, the accuracy of identifying the recovery position is improved.

[0120] Various parameters may be calculated based on information on the shape and position of the observation target S obtained by capturing images by the cameras 41a and 41b and on identification information provided on the sheet. Also, the sheet moving mechanism 5 may be controlled based on the calculated parameters. Calculation of such parameters includes, for example, calculation of the moving speed of the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b, calculation of the tension of the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b, estimation of the distance between the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b, etc. In addition, control of the sheet moving mechanism 5 based on these parameters may involve, for example, detecting a discrepancy in the moving speed of the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b, or excessive or insufficient tension in the first sheet 2a and the second sheet 2b, and correcting the moving speed, position, tension, etc. of the sheets to achieve a state suitable for observation.

[0121] As described above, the observation system 1C in this embodiment uses a microscope and a camera as an observation means to perform observation, thereby making it possible to obtain information about the object being observed (observation data) and to simultaneously obtain information necessary for the observation work. This makes it possible to further improve the work efficiency for observing a large number of objects being observed.

[0122] The above-described embodiment shows an example of the observation system and observation method. The observation system and observation method according to the present invention are not limited to the above-described embodiment, and the observation system and observation method according to the above-described embodiment may be modified without departing from the gist of the claims.

[0123] For example, an oil immersion lens may be used as the observation means of the observation system in this embodiment. When an oil immersion lens is used as the observation means, an oil supply unit that supplies oil for the oil immersion lens may be provided on the second sheet, and the oil and the oil immersion lens may come into contact as the second sheet moves, or the oil immersion lens itself may be provided with an oil supply unit. This allows observation at high magnification.

[0124] Also, for example, the observation system of this embodiment may be provided with a function for estimating the remaining amount of the first sheet and the second sheet in the unwinding section and issuing a warning when the remaining amount falls below a certain amount. This makes it possible to prevent the sheet from running out during sample preparation and sample observation, causing the work to be interrupted without notice. Note that, as a means for estimating the remaining amount of the sheet in the unwinding section, a marker may be provided in advance on the sheet itself, or the remaining amount of the rolled sheet in the unwinding section may be estimated from the number of rotations of the winding roll on the winding section side, the moving speed and time of the sheet, and the measurement results of the winding diameter of the unwinding section using a contact or non-contact sensor. On the other hand, if the first sheet and the second sheet are wound up too much in the winding section that winds up the sheet, unexpected contact with other components (such as the observation means and the sheet arrangement adjustment mechanism) may occur, which may cause a problem to the observation system. Therefore, a function for estimating the amount of the sheet wound in the winding section and issuing a warning or stopping the driving of the winding section when the amount reaches a certain amount or more may be provided. In addition to the number of rotations of the winding roll on the winding section side, the amount of the sheet in the winding section may be estimated from the moving speed and time of the sheet, and the measurement result of the winding diameter of the winding section using a contact or non-contact sensor. In addition, if the amount of the sheet in the winding section increases too much, the winding diameter of the winding section will expand, causing the sheet to float up from the support mechanism in the sheet moving mechanism or the support section in the sheet arrangement adjustment mechanism. Therefore, a function for issuing a warning or stopping the driving of the winding section may be provided when it is determined that the contact state with the sheet cannot be maintained in the support mechanism in the sheet moving mechanism or the support section in the sheet arrangement adjustment mechanism. Here, means for checking the contact state between the support mechanism or support part and the sheet include providing a detection means that directly detects the presence or absence of contact using a sensor, etc., and, in cases where the support mechanism or support part involves rotation, providing a detection means that indirectly detects the presence or absence of contact by detecting the presence or absence of rotation.

[0125] Also, for example, the sheets (first sheet and second sheet) in this embodiment may have holes at regular intervals on both ends of the width direction. In this case, the shaft shape of the drive part of the sheet moving mechanism is designed to be gear-shaped, and the teeth of the gear are designed to mesh with the holes in the sheets. This allows the sheet to move smoothly and makes it possible to suppress the occurrence of positional deviation, distortion, and bending during the sheet movement.

[0126] Also, for example, the winding section in this embodiment may be provided with a covering section to prevent scattering of the observation object S and the chemicals used for observation. Examples of the covering section include a resin case such as an acrylic case. This makes it possible to prevent scattering of the observation object S and the chemicals when the observation object S and the chemicals are wound in the winding section, and also to prevent scattering of the observation object S and the chemicals due to drying. Note that instead of providing a covering section, the configuration of a sheet recovery cartridge may be used. [Industrial Applicability]

[0127] The observation system and observation method of the present invention can be used for observing various observation objects, and are particularly suitable for use in observing a living body as an observation object. [Explanation of symbols]

[0128] 1A, 1B, 1C Observation system, 2a First sheet, 2b Second sheet, 3 Placement means, 30 Dispensing section, 31 Supply section, 31a Storage section, 31b Supply line, 31c Pump, 32 Control mechanism, 4 Observation means, 40 Objective lens, 41a, 41b Camera, 5 Sheet moving mechanism, 50 unwinding section, 50a, 50b unwinding roll, 51 winding section, 51a, 51b winding roll, 52 support mechanism, 52a support roller, 53 speed adjustment function, 53a rotation drive control section, 54 adjustment mechanism, 54a pressing member, 6 sheet arrangement adjustment mechanism, 61 fixing jig, 610, 610a, 610b member, 611 range, 611a hole, 612 structure, 612a protrusion, 612b guide member, 62 support section, 620 support member, 620a contact section, 621 sheet fixing section, 7 sheet supply cartridge, 70 storage section, 71 casing, 71a sheet supply port, 72 shaft, 73 power transmission section, 8 sheet recovery cartridge, 80 recovery section, 81 casing, 81a Sheet collection port, 82 shaft, 83 power transmission unit, 9 collection means, 90 suction unit, 91 cutting unit, 91a sample slice, C control means, C1, C2 control unit, S observation object

Claims

1. A first sheet; A placement means for placing an object to be observed on the first sheet; a second sheet that is superimposed on the first sheet after the object to be observed is placed on the first sheet; an observation means for observing the object to be observed while it is fixed between the first sheet and the second sheet; and a control means for adjusting an operation related to the positioning means.

2. 2. The observation system according to claim 1, wherein the control means controls at least one of the amount, speed, and interval of the observation objects arranged on the first sheet.

3. 3. The observation system according to claim 1, further comprising a recovery means for recovering the observation target, provided downstream of the observation means.

4. 4. The observation system according to claim 3, wherein the recovery means comprises a means for peeling off the first sheet and the second sheet and taking out the observation target.

5. 4. The observation system according to claim 3, wherein the recovery means comprises means for cutting off a sheet with the object to be observed fixed between the first sheet and the second sheet.

6. 6. The observation system according to claim 1, further comprising a sheet moving mechanism for moving the first sheet and the second sheet, the sheet moving mechanism having a speed adjustment function.

7. the observation means includes a seat arrangement adjustment mechanism that adjusts the arrangement of the first seat and the second seat, The seat arrangement adjustment mechanism includes: A fixing jig for attaching the first sheet and the second sheet; The observation system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising a support portion that maintains smooth surfaces of the first sheet and the second sheet.

8. 8. The observation system according to claim 1, wherein the observation means comprises a microscope and a camera.

9. The control means 9. The observation system according to claim 1, further comprising: a controller for controlling the observation means; and a controller for controlling the observation means ...

10. 6. The observation system according to claim 3, wherein the control means also adjusts a retrieval operation of the retrieval means.

11. 7. The observation system according to claim 6, wherein the control means also adjusts a seat movement associated with the seat moving mechanism.

12. The observation system according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the first sheet and the second sheet have different surface properties against water at one or a part of the sheet.

13. A sheet arrangement adjustment mechanism that adjusts the arrangement of a sheet used for observing an object to be observed, A fixture for mounting a sheet on which an object to be observed is placed; A support portion that maintains a smooth surface of the sheet, A seat arrangement adjustment mechanism, characterized in that the fixing jig limits movement of the seat in a short side direction of the seat.

14. A first sheet and a second sheet are provided, a placement step of placing an observation object on the first sheet; a step of overlapping the first sheet and a second sheet after the observation object is placed on the first sheet; an observation step of observing the observation object fixed between the first sheet and the second sheet; and a control step of adjusting an operation related to the placing step.

Images