Automated analyzers and piercer needles

Abstract

To wash the inside of a piercer needle without providing a washing unit that supplies washing water.SOLUTION: An autoanalyzer according to an embodiment is an autoanalyzer comprising a piercer needle that pierces a cap of a sample container that is sealed on a top face with the cap. The piercer needle comprises: a piercer nozzle that pierces the cap with its point; and a washing medium supply unit that supplies a washing medium for washing the inside of the piercer nozzle, the washing medium supply unit supplying the washing medium to the inside of the piercer nozzle from obliquely above with respect to an axial direction of the piercer nozzle.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The embodiments disclosed in the specification and drawings relate to an automated analyzer and a piercer needle. [Background technology]

[0002] Among the automated analyzers that analyze blood samples, there is a blood coagulation analyzer that analyzes target components based on the coagulation characteristics of blood. Blood samples are stored in sample containers that are sealed on the top with a cap. In such automated analyzers, before inserting a probe for aspirating the blood sample into the sample container, the cap is pierced with a piercer needle to prevent the probe from being clogged with cap debris.

[0003] However, when the cap is pierced with the piercer needle, blood on the cap may adhere to the tip of the piercer needle, or the tip may come into contact with blood, which may result in blood adhering to the piercer needle. For this reason, the piercer needle with blood on it must be cleaned, and for this cleaning, for example, a cleaning unit is used. During cleaning, the cleaning unit is disposed above the piercer needle and sprays cleaning water and cleaning air from above the piercer needle into the inside of the piercer needle.

[0004] However, this cleaning method requires that the piercer needle and the cleaning unit be in close contact with each other during cleaning. If the contact is insufficient, the sprayed cleaning water may splash around or the sprayed cleaning air may cause the cleaning water to flow back. In addition, during cleaning, the cleaning unit must move up and down like the piercer needle, which requires space to install a drive mechanism, resulting in increased manufacturing costs. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 5954114 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] One of the problems to be solved by the embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings is to enable cleaning of the inside of a piercer needle without providing a cleaning unit that supplies cleaning water. However, the problems to be solved by the embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings are not limited to the above problem. Problems corresponding to the effects of each configuration shown in the embodiments described below can also be positioned as other problems. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The automatic analyzer of this embodiment is an automatic analyzer equipped with a piercer needle that pierces the cap of a sample container whose upper surface is sealed by a cap, and the piercer needle is equipped with a piercer nozzle that pierces the cap with its tip, and a cleaning medium supply unit that supplies a cleaning medium to clean the inside of the piercer nozzle, and the cleaning medium supply unit supplies the cleaning medium into the inside of the piercer nozzle from diagonally above with respect to the axial direction of the piercer nozzle. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of an automatic analyzer according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an analysis mechanism in the automatic analyzer shown in FIG. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a top view of the photometric unit included in the analysis mechanism shown in FIG. 2. [Figure 4] FIG. 3 is a side view of the photometric unit of the analysis mechanism shown in FIG. 2. [Diagram 5] 3 is a configuration diagram of another example of a photometric unit included in the analysis mechanism shown in FIG. 2, seen from above. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing the trajectories of the movement of the sample dispensing probe and the piercer needle according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a configuration diagram of a piercer needle provided on a piercer needle arm of the automatic analyzer according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8]FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a piercer nozzle of a piercer needle in the automatic analyzer according to the first embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating the contents of a sample aspiration control process executed by the automatic analyzer according to the first embodiment. [Figure 10] 5A and 5B are side views of a piercer needle, a sample dispensing probe, and a sample container, illustrating the suction of a sample by the sample dispensing probe in the sample suction control process of the first embodiment. [Figure 11] 5A to 5C are side views of a piercer needle, a sample dispensing probe, and a sample container, illustrating wiping of sample adhering to the sample dispensing probe and piercer needle with cleaning air in the sample suction control process of the first embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 11 is an enlarged side view of a cap portion of a sample container, illustrating release to the atmosphere by a piercer nozzle in the sample suction control process of the first embodiment. [Figure 13] Figure 13(a) is a cross-sectional view of a piercer nozzle equipped with an atmosphere venting pipe provided outside the piercer nozzle, and Figure 13(b) is a side view of a piercer needle explaining the venting of a sample container to the atmosphere via the atmosphere venting pipe. [Figure 14] FIG. 14(a) is a cross-sectional view of a piercer nozzle equipped with a groove for venting to the atmosphere, and FIG. 14(b) is a side view of a piercer needle illustrating venting of a sample container to the atmosphere by the groove for venting to the atmosphere. [Figure 15] Figure 15(a) is a cross-sectional view of a piercer nozzle equipped with an atmosphere venting pipe installed inside the piercer nozzle, and Figure 15(b) is a side view of a piercer needle explaining the venting of a sample container to the atmosphere by the atmosphere venting pipe. [Figure 16] FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating the contents of a piercer needle cleaning control process executed by the automatic analyzer according to the first embodiment. [Figure 17] 4 is a diagram showing a state in which a piercer nozzle is inserted into a piercer needle cleaning pod in the piercer needle cleaning control process of the first embodiment. FIG. [Figure 18] 6A to 6C are views showing a state in which the inside and outside of the piercer nozzle are cleaned in the piercer needle cleaning control process of the first embodiment. [Figure 19]10 is a diagram showing a state in which the sample dispensing probe is inserted into the piercer nozzle and the sample dispensing probe is being washed together with the piercer nozzle in the piercer needle washing control process of the first embodiment. FIG. [Figure 20] 13A to 13C are diagrams illustrating the configuration of a piercer needle according to a second embodiment and the configuration of a supply mechanism that supplies a cleaning medium to a piercer nozzle of the piercer needle. [Figure 21] FIG. 13 is a schematic side view illustrating the configuration of a piercer needle according to a third embodiment, and the arrangement of a sample dispensing probe, a piercer needle, and a sample container. [Figure 22] 13 is a side view illustrating the arrangement of the internal drying head, piercer needle, and piercer needle cleaning pod when cleaning a piercer needle according to the third embodiment. FIG. [Diagram 23] FIG. 13 is a schematic side view illustrating the configuration of a piercer needle according to a modified example of the third embodiment, and the arrangement of a sample dispensing probe, a piercer needle, and a sample container. [Figure 24] 13 is a side view illustrating the arrangement of an internal drying head, a piercer needle, and a piercer needle cleaning pod when piercing a piercer needle in a modified example of the third embodiment. FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0009] Hereinafter, an automatic analyzer according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, components having substantially the same functions and configurations are denoted by the same reference numerals, and duplicated descriptions will be given only when necessary.

[0010] [First embodiment] 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of an automatic analyzer 1 according to a first embodiment. In this embodiment, the automatic analyzer 1 is, for example, a blood coagulation analyzer. In the following, this embodiment will be described using as an example a case in which a sample collected from a subject is blood and the automatic analyzer 1 is a blood coagulation analyzer, but this embodiment can also be applied to other types of samples and other types of automatic analyzers.

[0011] As shown in FIG. 1, the automatic analyzer 1 of this embodiment is configured to include an analysis mechanism 2, an analysis circuit 3, a drive mechanism 4, an input interface 5, an output interface 6, a communication interface 7, a memory circuit 8, and a control circuit 9.

[0012] The analysis mechanism 2 generates a mixed solution by mixing a blood sample, which is a specimen of a subject, with a coagulation reagent, which is a reagent used in each test item. Depending on the test item, the analysis mechanism 2 also mixes a standard solution diluted at a predetermined ratio with the reagent used in the test item. The analysis mechanism 2 continuously measures the optical property values ​​of the mixed solution of the blood sample and the reagent, or the mixed solution of the standard solution and the reagent. Through this measurement, standard data, which is represented by, for example, transmitted light intensity, absorbance, scattered light intensity, etc., and test data are generated.

[0013] The analysis circuit 3 is a processor that generates calibration data and analysis data related to the coagulation of a blood sample by analyzing the standard data and test data generated by the analysis mechanism 2. The analysis circuit 3 reads an analysis program from the storage circuit 8, for example, and analyzes the standard data and test data according to the read analysis program. The analysis circuit 3 may include a storage area that stores at least a portion of the data stored in the storage circuit 8.

[0014] The drive mechanism 4 drives the analysis mechanism 2 under the control of the control circuit 9. The drive mechanism 4 is realized by, for example, a gear, a stepping motor, a belt conveyor, a lead screw, and the like.

[0015] The input interface 5 receives settings such as analysis parameters for each test item related to a blood sample requested to be measured by an operator or via the hospital network NW. The input interface 5 is realized by, for example, a mouse, a keyboard, and a touchpad where instructions are input by touching the operation surface. The input interface 5 is connected to the control circuit 9, converts operation instructions input by the operator into electrical signals, and outputs the electrical signals to the control circuit 9. Note that in this specification, the input interface 5 is not limited to an interface having physical operation parts such as a mouse and a keyboard. For example, an electrical signal processing circuit that receives an electrical signal corresponding to an operation instruction input from an external input device provided separately from the automatic analyzer 1 and outputs the electrical signal to the control circuit 9 is also included as an example of the input interface 5.

[0016] The output interface 6 is connected to the control circuit 9 and outputs a signal supplied from the control circuit 9. The output interface 6 is realized by, for example, a display circuit, a printed circuit, and an audio device. The display circuit includes, for example, a CRT display, a liquid crystal display, an organic EL display, an LED display, and a plasma display. The display circuit also includes a processing circuit that converts data representing a display object into a video signal and outputs the video signal to the outside. The printed circuit includes, for example, a printer. The printed circuit also includes an output circuit that outputs data representing a print object to the outside. The audio device includes, for example, a speaker. The audio device also includes an output circuit that outputs an audio signal to the outside.

[0017] The communication interface 7 is connected to, for example, a hospital network NW. The communication interface 7 performs data communication with a Hospital Information System (HIS) via the hospital network NW. The communication interface 7 may also perform data communication with a Laboratory Information System (LIS) via a laboratory department system connected to the hospital network NW.

[0018] The memory circuit 8 includes a processor-readable recording medium such as a magnetic or optical recording medium, or a semiconductor memory. The memory circuit 8 does not necessarily have to be realized by a single storage device. For example, the memory circuit 8 may be realized by a plurality of storage devices.

[0019] The memory circuitry 8 stores an analysis program executed by the analysis circuitry 3 and a control program for realizing the functions of the control circuitry 9. The memory circuitry 8 stores the calibration data generated by the analysis circuitry 3 for each test item. The memory circuitry 8 stores the analysis data generated by the analysis circuitry 3 for each blood sample. The memory circuitry 8 stores a test order input by an operator or a test order received by the communication interface 7 via the hospital network NW.

[0020] The control circuit 9 is a processor that functions as the core of the automatic analyzer 1. The control circuit 9 executes a program stored in the memory circuit 8 to realize a function corresponding to the executed program. The control circuit 9 may include a memory area for storing at least a part of the data stored in the memory circuit 8.

[0021] Fig. 2 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a part of the configuration of the analysis mechanism 2 shown in Fig. 1. As shown in Fig. 2, the analysis mechanism 2 according to this embodiment is configured to include a reaction disk 201, a constant temperature unit 202, a rack sampler 203, and a reagent storage 204.

[0022] The reaction disk 201 holds a plurality of reaction vessels (cuvettes) 2011 arranged in a ring shape. The reaction disk 201 transports the reaction vessels 2011 along a predetermined path. Specifically, during the sample analysis operation, the reaction disk 201 is alternately rotated and stopped at predetermined time intervals by the drive mechanism 4. The reaction vessels 2011 are made of, for example, polypropylene (PP) or acrylic. The reaction disk 201 constitutes the holder in this embodiment.

[0023] The thermostatic section 202 stores a heat medium set at a predetermined temperature, and increases the temperature of the mixture contained in the reaction vessel 2011 by immersing the reaction vessel 2011 in the stored heat medium.

[0024] The rack sampler 203 movably supports a sample rack 2031 capable of holding a plurality of sample containers, and these sample containers contain blood samples, which are samples requested to be measured. In the example shown in Figure 2, the sample rack 2031 capable of holding five sample containers in parallel is shown.

[0025] The rack sampler 203 is provided with a transport area 2032 for transporting the sample rack 2031. That is, using this transport area 2032, the sample rack 2031 is transported from an input position where the sample rack 2031 is input to a recovery position where the sample rack 2031 after measurement is recovered. In the transport area 2032, a plurality of sample racks 2031 aligned in the longitudinal direction are moved in the direction D1 by the drive mechanism 4.

[0026] The rack sampler 203 is also provided with a retraction area 2033 that retracts the sample rack 2031 from the transport area 2032 in order to move the sample container held by the sample rack 2031 to a predetermined sample suction position. The sample suction position is provided, for example, at a position where the rotation path of the sample dispensing probe 207 intersects with the movement path of the opening of the sample container supported by the rack sampler 203 and held by the sample rack 2031. In the retraction area 2033, the transported sample rack 2031 is moved in direction D2 by the drive mechanism 4.

[0027] The rack sampler 203 is also provided with a return area 2034 for returning the sample rack 2031 holding the sample container into which the sample has been aspirated, to the transport area. In the return area 2034, the sample rack 2031 is moved in a direction D3 by the drive mechanism 4.

[0028] The reagent storage 204 holds and cools a plurality of reagent containers 100 containing standard solutions and reagents used in each test item performed on blood samples. A turntable is rotatably provided within the reagent storage 204. The turntable holds the plurality of reagent containers 100 placed in a circular ring shape. In this embodiment, the reagent storage 204 is covered by a removable reagent cover, although this is not shown in FIG. 2.

[0029] Furthermore, the analysis mechanism 2 according to this embodiment shown in FIG. 2 includes a sample dispensing arm 206, a sample dispensing probe 207, a reagent dispensing arm 208, a reagent dispensing probe 209, a piercer needle arm 300, and a piercer needle 310.

[0030] The sample dispensing arm 206 is provided between the reaction disk 201 and the rack sampler 203. The sample dispensing arm 206 is provided so as to be movable up and down in the vertical direction and rotatable in the horizontal direction by a driving mechanism 4. The sample dispensing arm 206 holds a sample dispensing probe 207 at one end.

[0031] The sample dispensing probe 207 rotates along an arc-shaped rotation orbit in association with the rotation of the sample dispensing arm 206. A sample suction position for aspirating a sample from a sample container held in a sample rack 2031 on the rack sampler 203 is provided on this rotation orbit. In addition, a sample dispensing position for dispensing a sample aspirated by the sample dispensing probe 207 into a reaction container 2011 is provided on the rotation orbit of the sample dispensing probe 207. The sample dispensing position corresponds to, for example, an intersection point between the rotation orbit of the sample dispensing probe 207 and the movement orbit of the reaction container 2011 held on the reaction disk 201.

[0032] The sample dispensing probe 207 is driven by the drive mechanism 4 and moves up and down at the sample suction position or the sample dispensing position. The sample dispensing probe 207 also aspirates a sample from a sample container located immediately below the sample suction position under the control of a sample suction control function 93, which will be described later. The sample dispensing probe 207 also dispenses the aspirated sample into a reaction container 2011 located immediately below the sample dispensing position under the control of the sample suction control function 93. The sample dispensing arm 206 and the sample dispensing probe 207 constitute an example of a sample dispensing mechanism in this embodiment.

[0033] The reagent dispensing arm 208 is provided between the reaction disk 201 and the reagent storage 204. The reagent dispensing arm 208 is provided so as to be movable up and down in the vertical direction and rotatable in the horizontal direction by the drive mechanism 4. The reagent dispensing arm 208 holds a reagent dispensing probe 209 at one end.

[0034] The reagent dispensing probe 209 rotates along an arc-shaped rotation orbit in association with the rotation of the reagent dispensing arm 208. A reagent aspirating position is provided on this rotation orbit. The reagent aspirating position is provided, for example, at a position where the rotation orbit of the reagent dispensing probe 209 intersects with the movement orbit of the opening of the reagent container 100 placed in an annular shape on the turntable of the reagent storage 204. In addition, a reagent dispensing position for dispensing the reagent aspirated by the reagent dispensing probe 209 into the reaction container 2011 is set on the rotation orbit of the reagent dispensing probe 209. The reagent dispensing position corresponds to, for example, the intersection of the rotation orbit of the reagent dispensing probe 209 and the movement orbit of the reaction container 2011 held on the reaction disk 201.

[0035] The reagent dispensing probe 209 is driven by the drive mechanism 4 and moves up and down at a reagent aspirating position or a reagent dispensing position on the rotation orbit. The reagent dispensing probe 209 also aspirates reagent from a reagent container stopped at the reagent aspirating position under the control of the control circuit 9. The reagent dispensing probe 209 also dispenses the aspirated reagent into a reaction container 2011 located directly below the reagent dispensing position under the control of the control circuit 9. The reagent dispensing arm 208 and the reagent dispensing probe 209 constitute an example of a reagent dispensing mechanism in this embodiment.

[0036] The piercer needle arm 300, like the sample dispensing arm 206, is provided between the reaction disk 201 and the rack sampler 203. The piercer needle arm 300 is provided so as to be movable up and down in the vertical direction and rotatable in the horizontal direction by a driving mechanism 4. The piercer needle arm 300 holds a piercer needle 310 at one end.

[0037] The piercer needle 310 rotates along an arc-shaped rotation orbit in association with the rotation of the piercer needle arm 300. The piercer needle 310 pierces a cap that seals the upper surface of a sample container in order for the sample dispensing probe 207 to aspirate a sample. In this embodiment, the cap is made of, for example, a rubber plug so that it can pierce. Therefore, a sample suction position common to the sample dispensing arm 206 is located on the rotation orbit of the piercer needle arm 300. The piercer needle 310 is driven by the drive mechanism 4, and pierces the cap by moving up and down at the sample suction position. Therefore, the piercer needle arm 300 and the piercer needle 310 constitute an example of a sample dispensing auxiliary mechanism in this embodiment.

[0038] Furthermore, the analysis mechanism 2 according to this embodiment is provided therein with photometric units in the same number as the reaction containers 2011 that can be held on the reaction disk 201. These photometric units constitute the photometric section in this embodiment. FIGS. 3 and 4 are schematic diagrams showing a configuration example of the photometric unit 211. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the positional relationship of each component when the photometric unit 211 is viewed from above the reaction disk 201. FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the positional relationship of each component when the photometric unit 211 is viewed from the cross-sectional direction of the reaction disk 201.

[0039] The photometric unit 211 continuously measures optical property values ​​of a mixture of a sample and a reagent dispensed into the reaction vessel 2011. In the analysis mechanism 2 according to this embodiment, a plurality of photometric units 211 are provided. For example, the same number of photometric units 211 as the reaction vessels that can be held on the reaction disk 201 are provided. That is, one photometric unit 211 is provided for one reaction vessel held on the reaction disk 201. Since the configurations of the respective photometric units 211 are similar, one photometric unit 211 is representatively illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4.

[0040] 3 and 4 includes, for example, a light source 2111 and photodetectors 2112 and 2113. For example, the light measurement unit 211 includes the light source 2111 on the annular center side of the reaction vessels 2011 held in an annular shape by the reaction disk 201. The light source 2111 is provided so as to irradiate light toward the outside of the ring in which the reaction vessels 2011 are arranged.

[0041] The light source 2111 is an example of a light irradiation unit that generates light of two types of wavelengths. The light source 2111 generates, for example, a first light having a long wavelength and a second light having a short wavelength. For example, the wavelength of the first light is included in the red wavelength range of 620 to 750 nm, and the wavelength of the second light is included in the purple to blue wavelength range of 380 to 495 nm. The wavelengths of the first and second lights may each be included in the red wavelength range of 620 to 750 nm. The light source 2111 is realized by, for example, a multi-wavelength LED capable of generating light of multiple wavelengths, two LEDs each generating light of a specific wavelength, and a light source unit that transmits light of a desired wavelength from light of a wide wavelength range using a filter.

[0042] The light source 2111 generates the first and second lights under the control of the control circuit 9. Specifically, for example, the light source 2111 alternately generates the first and second lights at a predetermined cycle. At this time, the light source 2111 alternately generates the first and second lights at a cycle of, for example, 0.05 seconds, which is half of 0.1 seconds, which is the minimum measurement unit of coagulation. The light irradiated from the light source 2111 is incident on the reaction vessel 2011.

[0043] The light source 2111 may be configured to generate light of one wavelength designated by the control circuit 9. The light source 2111 may also be configured to generate the first and second lights simultaneously. In this case, however, it is necessary to provide the photodetectors 2112 and 2113 with filters for removing light of unnecessary wavelengths.

[0044] The photodetector 2112 is disposed at a position facing the light source 2111 across the reaction vessel 2011. Light emitted from the light source 2111 enters the reaction vessel 2011 from a first side wall and exits from a second side wall opposite the first side wall. The photodetector 2112 detects the light emitted from the reaction vessel 2011. The photodetector 2112 is, for example, an example of a transmitted light receiving unit.

[0045] Specifically, for example, the photodetector 2112 detects light transmitted through a mixture of a standard solution and a reagent in the reaction vessel 2011. The photodetector 2112 samples the detected light at a predetermined time interval, for example, at an interval of 0.1 seconds, and generates standard data represented by transmitted light intensity, absorbance, or the like. The predetermined time interval is synchronized with, for example, the occurrence frequency of the first light. Note that, for example, the photodetector 2112 may detect only light of a wavelength corresponding to the wavelength of the first light. In addition, the photodetector 2112 detects light transmitted through a mixture of a blood sample and a reagent in the reaction vessel 2011. The photodetector 2112 samples the detected light at a predetermined time interval, and generates test data represented by transmitted light intensity, absorbance, or the like. The photodetector 2112 outputs the generated standard data and test data to the analysis circuit 3.

[0046] The photodetector 2113 is disposed such that the irradiation axis of the light from the light source 2111 and the light receiving axis of the photodetector 2113 intersect at approximately 90 degrees in the reaction vessel 2011. The light emitted from the light source 2111 enters the first side wall of the reaction vessel 2011, is scattered by particles in the mixed liquid, and then is emitted from a third side wall adjacent to the first side wall and separated by 90 degrees. The photodetector 2113 detects the light emitted from the reaction vessel 2011. The photodetector 2113 is, for example, an example of a scattered light receiving unit.

[0047] Specifically, for example, the photodetector 2113 detects light scattered by a mixture of a standard solution and a reagent in the reaction vessel 2011. The photodetector 2113 samples the detected light at a predetermined time interval, for example, at an interval of 0.1 seconds, and generates standard data represented by scattered light intensity or the like. The predetermined time interval is synchronized with, for example, the occurrence frequency of the second light. Note that the photodetector 2113 may detect only light of a wavelength corresponding to the wavelength of the second light, for example. The photodetector 2113 also detects light scattered by a mixture of a blood sample and a reagent in the reaction vessel 2011. The photodetector 2113 samples the detected light at a predetermined time interval, and generates test data represented by scattered light intensity or the like. The photodetector 2113 outputs the generated standard data and test data to the analysis circuit 3.

[0048] The photodetectors 2112 and 2113 may output the detected light intensity as a detection signal to the analysis circuit 3. At this time, the analysis circuit 3 samples the detection signal at a predetermined time interval, for example, at 0.1 second intervals, and generates standard data and test data.

[0049] Fig. 5 is a schematic diagram showing another configuration example of the photometry unit 211 according to this embodiment. Like Fig. 3, Fig. 5 shows an example of the positional relationship of each component when the photometry unit 211 is viewed from above the reaction disk 201. The photometry unit 211 shown in Fig. 5 has two LEDs 51 and 52 as a light source 2111. In the example shown in Fig. 5, the irradiation axis of the light of the LED 52 is inclined at a predetermined angle with respect to the irradiation axis of the light of the LED 51.

[0050] 3 and 4, the photodetector 2112 is disposed at a position facing the LED 51 across the reaction vessel 2011. On the other hand, the photodetector 2113 is disposed in the reaction vessel 2011 such that the irradiation axis of the light from the LED 52 and the light receiving axis of the photodetector 2113 intersect at approximately 90 degrees.

[0051] As shown in FIG. 1 again, the analysis circuit 3 executes an analysis program stored in the storage circuit 8 to realize a function corresponding to the program. For example, the analysis circuit 3 has an analysis function 31 and a composite analysis function 32 by executing the analysis program. That is, in this embodiment, the analysis circuit 3 constitutes an analysis processing unit that obtains an analysis result of a component contained in a sample based on the result of measurement by the photometric unit 211. Note that, in this embodiment, a case where the analysis function 31 and the composite analysis function 32 are realized by a single processor will be described, but this is not limiting. For example, the analysis circuit may be constituted by combining a plurality of independent processors, and the analysis function 31 and the composite analysis function 32 may be realized by each processor executing an analysis program.

[0052] The analysis function 31 is a function for analyzing the standard data and test data generated by the analysis mechanism 2, and is an example of an analysis unit. Specifically, for example, in the analysis function 31, the analysis circuit 3 calculates a clotting time based on the standard data, and generates calibration data from the calculated clotting time. The analysis circuit 3 outputs the generated calibration data to the control circuit 9.

[0053] In addition, in the analysis function 31, the analysis circuit 3 measures the coagulation process in the mixed liquid by, for example, analyzing the test data. Specifically, for example, in the analysis of a mixed liquid to which a highly reactive reagent has been added, the analysis circuit 3 analyzes the test data obtained by detecting transmitted light. The analysis circuit 3 acquires a change in the received light intensity for the blood coagulation reaction based on the test data. Note that, in the following, the description will proceed with the change in the received light intensity as a reaction curve. The analysis circuit 3 detects an inflection point, a saturation point, etc. in the reaction curve as the coagulation end point. The detection of the inflection point, the saturation point, etc. at this time is performed using a mathematical algorithm, for example, the first derivative, the second derivative, or other calculation method of the reaction curve. The analysis circuit 3 calculates the coagulation point and the coagulation time, which is the time it takes to reach the coagulation point, based on the detected coagulation end point. Note that, for an abnormal specimen in which coagulation does not progress after the addition of a highly reactive reagent, the analysis circuit 3 may analyze the test data obtained by detecting scattered light.

[0054] Furthermore, for example, in the case of analysis of a mixed solution to which a weakly and slowly reacting reagent has been added, the analysis circuit 3 analyzes the test data obtained by detecting scattered light. Note that in this embodiment, a weakly and slowly reacting reagent is sometimes described as a weakly reacting reagent, but these terms are treated as being equivalent. The analysis circuit 3 obtains a reaction curve based on the test data, and calculates information related to the coagulation of the blood sample, such as the coagulation end point, coagulation point, and coagulation time, from the obtained reaction curve.

[0055] Depending on the test item, the analysis circuit 3 calculates a concentration value, etc. based on the calculated coagulation time and the calibration data of the test item corresponding to the test data. The analysis circuit 3 outputs analysis data including the coagulation end point, coagulation point, coagulation time, concentration value, etc. to the control circuit 9.

[0056] The composite analysis function 32 is a function for combining and analyzing two types of test data generated by the analysis mechanism 2, and is an example of a composite analysis unit. Specifically, in the composite analysis function 32, the analysis circuit 3 acquires test data obtained by detecting transmitted light and test data obtained by detecting scattered light. The analysis circuit 3 calculates information related to the coagulation of the blood sample, such as the coagulation end point, coagulation point, and coagulation time, from a reaction curve based on the test data for transmitted light and a reaction curve based on the test data for scattered light.

[0057] The composite analysis function 32 is performed, for example, under control of the control circuit 9 and in accordance with the analysis results of the analysis function 31. For example, the analysis circuit 3 performs the composite analysis function 32 in response to an instruction from the control circuit 9. The analysis circuit 3 also performs the composite analysis function 32 in cases where, for example, a weakly reactive reagent is added in the analysis function 31 and the reaction is slower than expected.

[0058] The analysis circuit 3 outputs analysis data including the coagulation end point, coagulation point, coagulation time, and the like to the control circuit 9.

[0059] The control circuit 9 shown in Fig. 1 executes a control program stored in the memory circuit 8 to realize a function corresponding to the program. For example, the control circuit 9 has a system control function 91, a photometry control function 92, a sample suction control function 93, and a piercer needle cleaning control function 94 by executing the control program. Note that, in this embodiment, a case will be described in which the system control function 91, the photometry control function 92, the sample suction control function 93, and the piercer needle cleaning control function 94 are realized by a single processor, but this is not limiting. For example, the control circuit may be configured by combining multiple independent processors, and each processor may execute a control program to realize these various functions.

[0060] The system control function 91 is a function that comprehensively controls each part of the automatic analyzer 1 based on input information input from the input interface 5. For example, in the system control function 91, the control circuit 9 controls the analysis circuit 3 to perform an analysis according to a test item.

[0061] The photometry control function 92 is a function for controlling the wavelength of light used in measurement, and is an example of a photometry control section. Specifically, in the photometry control function 92, the control circuit 9, for example, refers to the test order stored in the memory circuit 8, and acquires reagent information to be used in the test item to be measured next. The control circuit 9 determines whether the reaction of the reagent to be used next is weak or not, based on, for example, the test item name, reagent name, information regarding reaction, information regarding retest, etc., included in the acquired reagent information.

[0062] The sample suction control function 93 is a function for controlling the above-mentioned sample dispensing mechanism and sample dispensing assistant mechanism to aspirate a predetermined amount of sample from a sample container. Specifically, the sample suction control function 93 moves the piercer needle 310 downward at the sample suction position to pierce the cap of the sample container, and lowers the sample dispensing probe 207 through the inside of the piercer needle 310 until it reaches the sample, thereby aspirating the sample. After the sample is aspirated, the sample dispensing probe 207 is raised to withdraw the sample dispensing probe 207 from the sample container, and then the piercer needle 310 is raised to withdraw the piercer needle 310 from the sample container.

[0063] The piercer needle cleaning control function 94 is a function that controls the cleaning of the piercer needle 310. Specifically, the piercer needle 310 is cleaned by moving the piercer needle 310 to a piercer needle cleaning position and supplying a cleaning medium to the piercer needle 310. In this embodiment, the piercer needle cleaning control function 94 cleans the inside and outside of the piercer needle 310.

[0064] The above is a description of the overall configuration of the automatic analyzer 1 according to this embodiment. Next, drive control of the sample dispensing arm 206 and the piercer needle arm 300 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0065] Fig. 6 is a plan view of the analysis mechanism 2 as seen from above. The in-plane direction of the paper is the horizontal direction, and the direction perpendicular to the paper is the up-down direction. Fig. 6 shows the operation of the above-mentioned sample dispensing mechanism and sample dispensing assistant mechanism. That is, it shows the sample dispensing arm 206 and sample dispensing probe 207 as the sample dispensing mechanism, and the piercer needle arm 300 and piercer needle 310 as the sample dispensing assistant mechanism.

[0066] The sample dispensing probe 207 is attached to the tip of the sample dispensing arm 206 so that the tip that aspirates and dispenses the sample is located downward. The sample dispensing arm 206 is driven to rotate about a sample dispensing probe drive shaft 210 in a horizontal plane. The rotation of the sample dispensing arm 206 causes the sample dispensing probe 207 to rotate along an arc-shaped rotation path in the horizontal plane. Specifically, the sample dispensing probe 207 moves so as to describe an arc-shaped path in the horizontal plane, and the movable range is indicated by a path T1.

[0067] Furthermore, the sample dispensing arm 206 moves up and down as the sample dispensing probe drive shaft 210 moves up and down. The sample dispensing arm 206 moves up and down, and the sample dispensing probe 207 moves up and down. In this embodiment, the sample dispensing probe 207 moves up and down, for example, at position P1, which is the sample suction position, or at a position where the sample dispensing probe washing pod 215 is provided.

[0068] As shown in Fig. 6, the piercer needle arm 300 is installed at a position different from the sample dispensing arm 206 and at a lower height than the sample dispensing arm 206. A piercer needle 310 is held at the tip of the piercer needle arm 300 with the tip facing downward. Like the sample dispensing arm 206, the piercer needle arm 300 is driven to rotate in a horizontal plane around a piercer needle drive shaft 320. This rotational drive moves the piercer needle 310 along an arc-shaped trajectory in the horizontal plane. Specifically, the piercer needle 310 moves so as to describe an arc-shaped trajectory in the horizontal plane, and the movable range is indicated by trajectory T2.

[0069] Furthermore, piercer needle arm 300 moves in the vertical direction as piercer needle drive shaft 320 moves in the vertical direction. And, as piercer needle arm 300 moves in the vertical direction, piercer needle 310 moves in the vertical direction. In this embodiment, piercer needle 310 moves in the vertical direction, for example, at position P1, which is a sample suction position, or at a piercer needle washing position.

[0070] The sample aspirating position is provided at a common position on the trajectory T1 and the trajectory T2. Specifically, the sample aspirating position is set at position P1, which is on the trajectory T1 of the sample dispensing probe 207 and on the trajectory T2 of the piercer needle 310. At this position P1, the piercer needle 310 pierces the cap of the sample container, and the sample dispensing probe 207 aspirates the sample.

[0071] In the automated analyzer 1 according to this embodiment, a sample dispensing probe washing pod 215 is provided on the track T1, and a piercer needle washing pod 330 is provided at a piercer needle washing position on the track T2. The sample dispensing probe washing pod 215 can wash samples and the like adhering to the sample dispensing probe 207, and the piercer needle washing pod 330 can wash samples and the like adhering to the piercer needle 310.

[0072] Next, the piercer needle 310 will be described with reference to Figures 7 and 8. The piercer needle 310 according to this embodiment includes a piercer nozzle 311 and a cleaning medium supply unit 312.

[0073] The piercer nozzle 311 pierces the cap of the sample container with its tip. That is, the driving mechanism 4 causes the piercer nozzle 311 to descend from an upper position of the sample container, and penetrate a cap such as a rubber stopper sealing the upper surface of the sample container from above to pierce the cap. For this reason, the tip of the piercer nozzle 311 has a pointed shape that can pierce the cap. In addition, the main body of the piercer nozzle 311 has a cylindrical shape. Specifically, a probe communication hole PH is provided inside the piercer nozzle 311. The sample dispensing probe 207 moves inside the probe communication hole PH of the piercer nozzle 311. That is, the sample dispensing probe 207 moves up and down through the probe communication hole PH to reach the sample contained inside the sample container and aspirate the sample. Therefore, the inner diameter of the probe communication hole PH is designed to be larger than the outer diameter of the sample dispensing probe 207.

[0074] The piercer nozzle 311 also includes an air release channel AR. This air release channel AR opens the inside of the sample container to the atmosphere when the piercer nozzle 311 pierces the cap. That is, the air release channel AR connects the inside of the sample container to the outside of the sample container. In general, the inside of the sample container sealed with the cap is in a negatively pressurized vacuum state. Therefore, if the inside of the sample container is not opened to the atmosphere, the sample may flow back to the cleaning medium supply unit 312. Therefore, in order to suppress the backflow of the sample, it is required to connect the inside of the sample container to the atmosphere. Therefore, in this embodiment, the air release channel AR is provided in the piercer nozzle 311, and the inside of the sample container is opened to the atmosphere when the cap is pierced. In the piercer needle 310 shown in FIG. 7, the air release channel AR is formed by cutting out a part of the side wall of the piercer nozzle 311, but the method of forming the air release channel AR is not limited to this. For example, as shown in FIG. 8, the inside of piercer nozzle 311 may have a double structure, with an atmosphere-opening flow path portion AR being formed between outer cylindrical nozzle 311a and inner cylindrical nozzle 311b.

[0075] As shown in FIG. 7, the cleaning medium supply unit 312 supplies a cleaning medium for cleaning the inside of the piercer nozzle 311. In this embodiment, cleaning water and cleaning air are used as the cleaning medium. For this reason, cleaning water and cleaning air are supplied from the cleaning medium supply unit 312 to the inside of the piercer nozzle 311. In this embodiment, the cleaning medium supply unit 312 includes a cleaning air flow path section 312a and a cleaning water flow path section 312b. That is, the cleaning air flows through the cleaning air flow path section 312a and is supplied to the inside of the piercer nozzle 311, and the cleaning water flows through the cleaning water flow path section 312b and is supplied to the inside of the piercer nozzle 311.

[0076] The cleaning medium supply unit 312 is provided on the upper part of the piercer nozzle 311 so as to extend obliquely upward from the piercer nozzle 311, and supplies a cleaning medium to the inside of the piercer nozzle 311. In particular, in this embodiment, the cleaning medium supply unit 312 is provided at a position a certain distance below the tip of the piercer nozzle 311 so as to obliquely intersect with the axial direction of the piercer nozzle 311. The cleaning medium supply unit 312 is attached to the piercer nozzle 311 by any method, such as welding. That is, in this embodiment, the cleaning medium supply unit 312 is directly attached to the piercer nozzle 311.

[0077] By providing cleaning medium supply section 312 facing diagonally upward, a cleaning medium is supplied into the inside of piercer nozzle 311 from diagonally above with respect to the axial direction of piercer nozzle 311. Therefore, for example, when the cleaning medium is cleaning water, it is possible to reduce the resistance of the water flow caused by the cleaning water supplied from cleaning water flow path section 312b hitting the inside of the side wall of piercer needle 310. Also, when the cleaning medium is cleaning air, it is possible to mitigate the pressure loss caused by the cleaning air supplied from cleaning air flow path section 312a hitting the inside of the side wall of piercer needle 310.

[0078] Thus, in this embodiment, the cleaning medium supply unit 312 is directly attached to the piercer nozzle 311 and is provided integrally with the piercer nozzle 311. Therefore, the inside of the piercer nozzle 311 can be cleaned without providing a cleaning unit that comes into close contact with the piercer needle 310 during cleaning or a mechanism for moving this cleaning unit up and down. This reduces constraints on the layout of the configuration of the automatic analyzer 1. Also, the inside of the piercer nozzle 311 can be cleaned without strict alignment between the piercer needle 310 and the cleaning unit.

[0079] In the automated analyzer 1 according to this embodiment, as shown in Fig. 7, the cleaning air flow path section 312a is disposed above the cleaning water flow path section 312b. By disposing them in this manner, cleaning air is supplied to the inside of the piercer nozzle 311 from above the cleaning water. This makes it possible to supply a small amount of cleaning air from the cleaning air flow path section 312a while supplying cleaning water from the cleaning water flow path section 312b, thereby preventing the cleaning water from flowing back upward in the piercer nozzle 311. In addition, splashes of the cleaning water can be prevented from scattering from the upper part of the piercer needle 310.

[0080] Next, the sample aspiration control process by the automatic analyzer 1 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 9 to Fig. 15. Fig. 9 is a flow chart illustrating a series of steps in the sample aspiration control process for aspirating a sample contained in a sample container. This sample aspiration control process is executed by the sample aspiration control function 93 of the control circuit 9.

[0081] When the sample suction control process is started, the sample suction control function 93 of the control circuit 9 moves the piercer needle 310 to the sample suction position (step S10). That is, the driving mechanism 4 rotates the piercer needle arm 300 to move the piercer needle 310 to position P1 in FIG. 6. Next, the sample suction control function 93 similarly moves the sample dispensing probe 207 to the sample suction position (step S12). That is, the driving mechanism 4 rotates the sample dispensing arm 206 to move the sample dispensing probe 207 to position P1. As a result, the sample dispensing probe 207 and the piercer needle 310 are vertically aligned at position P1.

[0082] A sample container containing a sample to be aspirated is placed at position P1, which is the sample aspirating position. The timing of placing the sample container may be such that the sample container is placed at position P1 prior to the movement of the piercer needle 310 and the sample dispensing probe 207 in steps S10 and S12, or the sample container may be placed at position P1 simultaneously with the movement of the piercer needle 310 and the sample dispensing probe 207, or the sample container may be placed at position P1 after the movement of the piercer needle 310 and the sample dispensing probe 207.

[0083] Next, the sample suction control function 93 of the control circuit 9 lowers the piercer needle 310 at position P1 (step S14). As a result, the piercer nozzle 311 of the piercer needle 310 pierces the cap that seals the sample container, thereby opening it to the atmosphere.

[0084] Next, the sample suction control function 93 of the control circuit 9 lowers the sample dispensing probe 207 so as to pass through the inside of the piercer needle 310 (step S16). Specifically, like the piercer nozzle 311, the sample dispensing probe 207 is lowered at position P1.

[0085] Fig. 10 is a side view showing a schematic arrangement of the sample container SH, the piercer needle 310, and the sample dispensing probe 207 after the sample dispensing probe 207 has been lowered in step S16. As shown in Fig. 10, a probe communication hole PH is formed inside the piercer needle 310. The sample dispensing probe 207 moves from above to below so as to pass through the probe communication hole PH, and is lowered to the sample SP contained in the sample container SH.

[0086] When the sample dispensing probe 207 descends, the cap CP of the sample container SH has already been pierced by the piercer needle 310. The sample dispensing probe 207 passes through a probe communication hole PH formed inside the piercer needle 310 that has pierced the cap CP, thereby preventing debris from the cap CP from entering the sample dispensing probe 207 and causing clogging.

[0087] Next, the sample suction control function 93 of the control circuit 9 causes the sample SP to be aspirated from the tip of the sample dispensing probe 207 (step S18). The amount of sample SP to be aspirated is determined in advance by the sample suction control function 93 etc. depending on the test item etc.

[0088] After aspirating the sample SP, the sample aspirating control function 93 of the control circuit 9 raises the sample dispensing probe 207 and supplies cleaning air to the inside of the piercer needle 310 (step S20). That is, the sample dispensing probe 207, which penetrates the probe communication hole PH inside the piercer needle 310, is raised while still passing through the probe communication hole PH. At that time, cleaning air is supplied from the cleaning air flow path portion 312a to the inside of the piercer nozzle 311.

[0089] Fig. 11 is a side view showing a schematic arrangement of the sample container SH, the piercer needle 310, and the sample dispensing probe 207 when the sample dispensing probe 207 is raised in step S20. As shown in Fig. 11, the sample dispensing probe 207 is raised so that the sample dispensing probe 207, which penetrates the probe communication hole PH inside the piercer needle 310, is pulled out through the probe communication hole PH. Therefore, the sample dispensing probe 207 can be pulled out from the sample container SH without touching the cap CP of the sample container SH.

[0090] 11, the cleaning air is supplied from the cleaning air flow path section 312a to the inside of the piercer nozzle 311, and then flows below the piercer nozzle 311. In this manner, the cleaning air supplied from the cleaning medium supply section 312 wipes away the sample adhering to the sample dispensing probe 207 and the sample adhering to the piercer nozzle 311. That is, the cleaning air wipes away the sample adhering to the outside of the side wall of the sample dispensing probe 207, and wipes away the sample adhering to the inside of the side wall of the piercer nozzle 311.

[0091] 9, after the sample dispensing probe 207 is raised, the sample suction control function 93 of the control circuit 9 raises the piercer needle 310 (step S22). That is, the piercer needle 310 that has pierced the cap CP of the sample container SH is raised and pulled out from the cap CP. With this step S22, the sample suction control process according to this embodiment is completed.

[0092] Now, with reference to Figs. 12 to 15, the opening of the inside of the sample container SH to the atmosphere by the piercer nozzle 311 will be described in detail. Fig. 12 is a schematic diagram explaining that the opening of the inside of the sample container SH to the atmosphere is performed by the atmosphere opening channel section AR, and shows the state in which the piercer nozzle 311 is perforating the cap CP. This atmosphere opening channel section AR connects the inside and outside of the sample container SH. By perforating the cap CP, the channel F2 is connected via the atmosphere opening channel section AR of the piercer nozzle 311, and the inside and outside of the sample container SH are connected. Then, the inside of the sample container SH is opened to the atmosphere.

[0093] 12, the air vent flow path section AR is provided all along the inner circumference of the piercer nozzle 311, but this air vent flow path section AR may be provided outside the piercer nozzle 311. Figures 13(a) and 13(b) are diagrams illustrating an example of a piercer nozzle 311 in which an air vent flow path section AR is provided outside the piercer nozzle 311. Specifically, Figure 13(a) is a schematic horizontal cross-sectional view of the piercer nozzle 311, and Figure 13(b) is a schematic vertical side view.

[0094] 13(a) and 13(b), in this example, an atmosphere vent pipe 313 is provided outside the side wall of the piercer nozzle 311 along the axial direction of the piercer nozzle 311. This atmosphere vent pipe 313 constitutes an atmosphere vent flow path portion AR.

[0095] For example, the atmosphere vent pipe 313 can be attached to the outside of the side wall of the piercer nozzle 311 by welding or the like. As shown in FIG. 13(b), a flow path F2 is formed inside this atmosphere vent pipe 313, and the inside of the sample container SH is connected to the outside and opened to the atmosphere. The vertical length of the atmosphere vent pipe 313 is longer than the thickness of the cap CP. That is, the inside and outside of the sample container SH are separated by the cap CP. For this reason, the minimum length of the atmosphere vent pipe 313 is required to be the length required to penetrate the cap CP.

[0096] 14(a) and 14(b), a flow path portion AR for venting to the atmosphere can also be formed by providing a groove for venting to the atmosphere along the axial direction on the side wall of the piercer nozzle 311. Like Figures 13(a) and 13(b), Figure 14(a) is a schematic horizontal cross-sectional view of the piercer nozzle 311, and Figure 14(b) is a schematic vertical side view.

[0097] 14(a) and 14(b), in this example, a recess is partially formed in the side wall of the piercer nozzle 311 along the axial direction of the piercer nozzle 311, and this recess serves as the atmosphere vent groove W. This atmosphere vent groove W, formed along the axial direction of the piercer nozzle 311, constitutes the atmosphere vent flow path AR.

[0098] 14(b), the atmosphere vent pipe 313 forms a flow path F2, and the inside of the sample container SH is connected to the outside and opened to the atmosphere. Similarly to the atmosphere vent pipe 313, the vertical length of the atmosphere vent groove W is longer than the thickness of the cap CP. That is, the length required to connect the cap CP is the minimum length required for the atmosphere vent groove W.

[0099] 15(a) and 15(b), an atmosphere vent pipe 314 may be provided inside the side wall of the piercer nozzle 311 along the axial direction, and the atmosphere vent flow path AR may be formed by this atmosphere vent pipe 314. Like Figures 13(a) and 13(b), Figure 15(a) is a schematic horizontal cross-sectional view of the piercer nozzle 311, and Figure 15(b) is a schematic vertical side view.

[0100] 15(a) and 15(b), in this example, an atmosphere vent pipe 314 is provided inside the side wall of the piercer nozzle 311 along the axial direction of the piercer nozzle 311. This atmosphere vent pipe 314 constitutes an atmosphere vent flow path portion AR.

[0101] For example, the atmosphere vent pipe 314 can be attached to the side wall of the piercer nozzle 311 by welding or the like. As shown in Fig. 15(b), a flow path F2 is formed inside this atmosphere vent pipe 314, and the inside of the sample container SH is connected to the outside and opened to the atmosphere. The upper end of the atmosphere vent pipe 314 is at the same height as the upper end of the piercer nozzle 311. In other words, the atmosphere vent pipe 314 opens the inside of the sample container SH to the atmosphere from the upper end of the piercer nozzle 311.

[0102] 12 to 15, the piercer nozzle 311 is used to open the inside of the sample container SH to the atmosphere, but the piercer needle 310 of this embodiment can be provided with any of the above-mentioned atmosphere opening flow channel sections AR. In addition, any of the atmosphere opening flow channel sections AR can communicate the inside and outside of the sample container SH to realize opening to the atmosphere.

[0103] According to the sample suction control process in the present embodiment described above, the sample contained in the inside of the sample container SH can be aspirated. Specifically, when the piercer needle 310 pierces the cap CP, the air release channel section AR opens the inside of the sample container SH to the air. This allows the inside of the sample container SH to communicate with the outside air, preventing the sample from flowing back into the cleaning medium supply section 312. When the sample dispensing probe 207 is raised, cleaning air is supplied from the cleaning air channel section 312a of the cleaning medium supply section 312 to the inside of the piercer nozzle 311. The cleaning air can wipe off the sample adhering to the sample dispensing probe 207 and the piercer needle 310.

[0104] Next, the piercer needle cleaning control process by the automatic analyzer 1 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 16 to Fig. 19. Fig. 16 is a flowchart illustrating a series of steps in the piercer needle cleaning control process for cleaning the piercer needle 310. This piercer needle cleaning control process is executed by the piercer needle cleaning control function 94 of the control circuit 9.

[0105] When the piercer needle cleaning control process is started, the piercer needle cleaning control function 94 of the control circuit 9 moves the piercer needle 310 to the piercer needle cleaning position (step S30). That is, the driving mechanism 4 rotates the piercer needle arm 300 to move the piercer needle 310 to the position of the piercer needle cleaning pod 330 in FIG.

[0106] Next, the piercer needle cleaning control function 94 of the control circuit 9 lowers the piercer needle 310 at the position of the piercer needle cleaning pod 330 (step S32). The automated analyzer 1 according to this embodiment is provided with the piercer needle cleaning pod 330 as a piercer nozzle cleaning mechanism. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 6, the piercer needle cleaning pod 330 is provided on the trajectory T2 of the piercer needle 310.

[0107] 17 is a schematic side view illustrating the configuration of a piercer needle washing pod 330 included in the automated analyzer 1 according to this embodiment. As shown in Fig. 17, the piercer needle washing pod 330 includes an upper cover 331 having an opening AP1 on its upper surface, a washing tank 332 sealed by the upper cover 331, and an external washing medium discharge part 333 provided in the washing tank 332.

[0108] An opening AP1 is formed in the center of top lid 331. The inner diameter of this opening AP1 is sufficiently larger than the outer diameter of piercer nozzle 311. Therefore, even if the movement of piercer needle 310 in step S30 is slightly off, piercer nozzle 311 can descend without coming into contact with top lid 331.

[0109] The cleaning tank 332 accommodates the piercer nozzle 311 inserted into the interior through the opening AP1. An external cleaning medium discharger 333 is provided on the inner periphery of the cleaning tank 332. In Fig. 17, three external cleaning medium dischargers 333 are provided in the cleaning tank 332, but the number of external cleaning medium dischargers 333 arranged is not limited to this.

[0110] The external cleaning medium discharger 333 discharges a cleaning medium for cleaning the outside of the sidewall of the piercer nozzle 311. Therefore, in this step S32, as shown in Fig. 17, the piercer nozzle 311 of the piercer needle 310 is lowered from the opening AP1 until it reaches the inside of the piercer needle cleaning pod 330 so that the cleaning medium discharged from the external cleaning medium discharger 333 hits the piercer nozzle 311.

[0111] 16, the piercer needle cleaning control function 94 of the control circuit 9 supplies cleaning water and cleaning air from the cleaning medium supply unit 312 to the inside of the piercer nozzle 311 (step S34). As a result, the supplied cleaning water cleans the inside of the side wall of the piercer nozzle 311, and the supplied cleaning air suppresses splashing of the cleaning water.

[0112] Fig. 18 is a schematic side view illustrating the state of piercer needle cleaning pod 330 and piercer nozzle 311 at this time, and corresponds to Fig. 117 described above. As shown in Fig. 18, with piercer nozzle 311 inserted in cleaning tank 332, cleaning medium is supplied from cleaning medium supply unit 312 to the inside of piercer nozzle 311. That is, in this embodiment, cleaning air is supplied from cleaning air flow path unit 312a, and cleaning water is supplied from cleaning water flow path unit 312b.

[0113] As a result, as shown by flow path F3, cleaning water is supplied to the inside of piercer nozzle 311, cleaning the inside of piercer nozzle 311. As described above, cleaning water flow path portion 312b of cleaning medium supply portion 312 is attached to the upper portion of piercer nozzle 311, facing diagonally downward in the axial direction. This reduces the resistance of the flowing water when the cleaning water hits the inside side surface of piercer nozzle 311, and suppresses splashes caused by the cleaning water hitting the inside side surface of piercer nozzle 311. The inside of piercer nozzle 311 can be cleaned from top to bottom with this cleaning water.

[0114] Also, cleaning air is supplied from above the cleaning water. As a result, as shown by flow path F4, the cleaning air suppresses the cleaning water from above. In other words, the cleaning water is prevented from flowing above the piercer nozzle 311 and the cleaning water is prevented from splashing upward. In addition, since the cleaning air flow path section 312a is also attached diagonally upward, pressure loss of the cleaning air is also reduced.

[0115] In this embodiment, the amount of cleaning air supplied from the cleaning air flow path section 312a in step S34 is less than the amount of cleaning air supplied from the cleaning air flow path section 312a in step S20 in the above-mentioned sample suction control process. This is because the purpose of supplying this cleaning air can be achieved if the scattering of droplets caused by the splashing of cleaning water can be prevented.

[0116] In step S34, cleaning air may be prevented from being supplied to the inside of piercer nozzle 311. In other words, if the upward scattering of cleaning water droplets is negligible or tolerable, the supply of cleaning air is not necessary. In this case, in step S34, cleaning water is supplied from cleaning water flow path 312b of cleaning medium supply unit 312 to the inside of piercer nozzle 311.

[0117] Next, as shown in FIG. 16, the piercer needle cleaning control function 94 of the control circuit 9 supplies external cleaning water and external cleaning air from the external cleaning medium discharge unit 333 to the piercer nozzle 311 (step S36). This cleans the outer wall of the piercer nozzle 311. Specifically, for example, as shown by the flow path F5 in FIG. 18, external cleaning water and external cleaning air are supplied as cleaning media from the external cleaning medium discharge unit 333 to clean the outer wall of the piercer nozzle 311. Note that in this embodiment, either the cleaning of the inside of the piercer nozzle 311 in step S34 or the cleaning of the outside of the piercer nozzle 311 in step S36 may be performed first. Furthermore, the cleaning of the inside of the piercer nozzle 311 in step S34 and the cleaning of the outside of the piercer nozzle 311 in step S36 may be performed simultaneously in parallel.

[0118] In addition, in the above step S34 or step S36, the outer wall of the sample dispensing probe 207 may be washed. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 19, the inside and outside of the piercer nozzle 311 may be washed while the sample dispensing probe 207 is positioned in the probe communication hole PH of the piercer nozzle 311. In other words, while the sample dispensing probe 207 is present, a cleaning medium is supplied from the cleaning medium supply unit 312. As a result, the outer wall of the sample dispensing probe 207 is washed with the cleaning medium. With this configuration, the sample dispensing probe 207 and the piercer nozzle 311 can be washed simultaneously. In this case, it is necessary to design the sample dispensing probe 207 so that it can move to the position of the piercer needle washing pod 330. For example, it is necessary to configure the sample dispensing probe 207 to be movable to the position of the piercer needle washing pod 330 by extending and retracting the sample dispensing arm 206 shown in FIG. 6.

[0119] 16, after cleaning of the piercer nozzle 311 in steps S34 and S36 is completed, the piercer needle cleaning control function 94 of the control circuit 9 raises the piercer needle 310 (step S38). That is, the piercer needle 310 is raised in the opposite direction to step S32. With this step S38, the piercer needle cleaning control process ends.

[0120] As described above, according to the automatic analyzer 1 of this embodiment, the cleaning medium supply unit 312 is provided inside the piercer nozzle 311 so as to supply a cleaning medium from diagonally above with respect to the axial direction of the piercer nozzle 311. By supplying the cleaning medium from the cleaning medium supply unit 312 to the inside of the piercer nozzle 311, the inside of the piercer nozzle 311 can be cleaned without providing a separate cleaning mechanism. This reduces constraints on the layout of the configuration of the automatic analyzer 1. In addition, the inside of the piercer nozzle 311 can be cleaned without strict alignment when cleaning the piercer needle 310.

[0121] Furthermore, by providing the cleaning medium supply unit 312 at an angle to the axial direction of the piercer nozzle 311, it is possible to reduce the resistance when the cleaning medium hits the inner wall of the piercer nozzle 311, and to mitigate the pressure loss of the cleaning medium. When the cleaning medium is cleaning water and cleaning air, the cleaning air is supplied from above the cleaning water. This allows the cleaning air to press down on the cleaning water from above, preventing the cleaning water from flowing back above the piercer nozzle 311 and preventing splashes of the cleaning water above the piercer nozzle 311.

[0122] Furthermore, in the automated analyzer 1 according to this embodiment, when the piercer nozzle 311 pierces the cap CP, the atmosphere release channel section AR connects the inside and outside of the sample container SH. This allows the inside of the sample container SH to be opened to the atmosphere. Therefore, even if the sample container SH is under negative pressure, it is possible to prevent the sample from flowing back into the cleaning medium supply section 312.

[0123] Furthermore, in the automated analyzer 1 according to this embodiment, when the sample dispensing probe 207 that has aspirated the sample from the sample container SH is raised, cleaning air is supplied from the cleaning air flow path section 312a. This allows the sample adhering to the sample dispensing probe 207 and the piercer nozzle 311 to be wiped away with the cleaning air.

[0124] Second Embodiment In the above-described first embodiment, cleaning air flow path section 312a and cleaning water flow path section 312b are provided in piercer nozzle 311, and cleaning air and cleaning water are supplied to them, respectively. In the second embodiment, cleaning medium supply section 312 is provided with solenoid valve 40 as a switching valve for the cleaning medium to be supplied, and cleaning air or cleaning water is switched and supplied to the inside of piercer nozzle 311. The second embodiment will be described below, focusing on the parts that differ from the first embodiment.

[0125] Fig. 20 is a diagram for explaining the configuration of piercer needle 310 in this embodiment, and corresponds to Fig. 7 of the first embodiment. The right side of Fig. 20 is an enlarged schematic diagram of region II of piercer needle 310.

[0126] 20, the piercer needle 310 according to this embodiment, like the first embodiment, includes a piercer nozzle 311 and a cleaning medium supply unit 312 that supplies a cleaning medium to the inside of the piercer nozzle 311 from diagonally above with respect to the axial direction of the piercer nozzle. Furthermore, the piercer needle 310 according to this embodiment includes an electromagnetic valve 40 as a switching valve. The electromagnetic valve 40 is an example of a switching valve, and other types of valves can also be used as the switching valve.

[0127] First, with reference to FIG. 20, the cleaning medium switching operation using the solenoid valve 40 in this embodiment will be described.

[0128] In the automatic analyzer 1 according to this embodiment, the cleaning medium supply unit 312 is configured to include a common flow path portion C0 through which cleaning water and cleaning air flow. Furthermore, the automatic analyzer 1 according to this embodiment is configured to include an electromagnetic valve 40 connected to this common flow path portion C0, a cleaning water supply pump 50 that supplies cleaning water, and a cleaning air supply compressor 60 that supplies cleaning air. The electromagnetic valve 40 and the cleaning water supply pump 50 are connected by a flow path portion C1, and the electromagnetic valve 40 and the cleaning air supply compressor 60 are connected by a flow path portion C2. Note that other configurations of the automatic analyzer 1 according to this embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment, and therefore will not be described.

[0129] Cleaning water is supplied from the cleaning water supply pump 50 to the cleaning medium supply unit 312 through the flow path C1, the solenoid valve 40, and the common flow path C0. On the other hand, cleaning air is supplied from the cleaning air supply compressor 60 to the cleaning medium supply unit 312 through the flow path C2, the solenoid valve 40, and the common flow path C0. Therefore, cleaning water and cleaning air flow through the common flow path C0. The solenoid valve 40 functions as a switching valve that switches between supplying cleaning water, supplying cleaning air, or supplying both cleaning water and cleaning air to the common flow path C0. The switching by the solenoid valve 40 is performed, for example, by the system control function 91 of the control circuit 9.

[0130] 9, the solenoid valve 40 is switched to supply cleaning air, and cleaning air is supplied from the cleaning air supply compressor 60 to the cleaning medium supply unit 312. As a result, cleaning air is supplied to the inside of the piercer nozzle 311.

[0131] 16, the solenoid valve 40 switches to supply both cleaning water and cleaning air, so that cleaning water is supplied to the cleaning medium supply unit 312 of the cleaning water supply pump 50, and cleaning air is supplied from the cleaning air supply compressor 60 to the cleaning medium supply unit 312. Alternatively, the solenoid valve 40 switches to supply cleaning water, so that cleaning water is supplied to the cleaning medium supply unit 312 of the cleaning water supply pump 50.

[0132] As described above, the cleaning water and cleaning air supplied to the cleaning medium supply unit 312 through the common flow path portion C0 are supplied to the inside of the piercer nozzle 311 as shown by flow path F6. This cleans the inside of the piercer nozzle 311. Note that in this embodiment, as in the first embodiment, the sample suction control function 93 executes a sample suction control process, and the piercer needle cleaning control function 94 executes a piercer needle cleaning control process. These processes are also similar to those in the first embodiment, so an overall description thereof will be omitted.

[0133] As described above, according to the automatic analyzer 1 of this embodiment, the solenoid valve 40 serving as a switching valve can be used to switch between supplying cleaning water, supplying cleaning air, or supplying both cleaning water and cleaning air to the cleaning medium supply unit 312. Therefore, by providing one common flow path portion C0 in the cleaning medium supply unit 312 of the piercer nozzle 311, a piercer needle 310 similar to that of the first embodiment can be realized.

[0134] Third Embodiment In the above-described first and second embodiments, the cleaning medium supply unit 312 is directly attached to the piercer nozzle 311. On the other hand, in the third embodiment, the cleaning medium supply unit 312 is attached to the piercer nozzle 311 via an adapter. The following mainly describes the differences from the first embodiment.

[0135] 21 is a diagram illustrating a piercer needle 310 according to this embodiment. In the piercer needle 310 according to this embodiment, a cleaning medium supply unit 312 is attached to a piercer nozzle 311 via an adapter 315. In other words, the cleaning medium supply unit 312 is provided in the adapter 315. The adapter 315 is attached above the piercer nozzle 311.

[0136] Specifically, a guide portion 3151 is provided facing upward of the adapter 315, and a cleaning medium supply portion 312 is coupled to a side surface of the adapter 315. Note that, similar to the first embodiment, this cleaning medium supply portion 312 is provided obliquely with respect to the axial direction of the piercer nozzle 311. Therefore, the cleaning medium supply portion 312 supplies cleaning water, which is an example of a cleaning medium, to the inside of the piercer nozzle 311 from obliquely above with respect to the axial direction of the piercer nozzle 311.

[0137] Guide section 3151 is provided with an insertion port 3152 that is tapered in the vertical direction and has a wide inner diameter at the top and a narrow inner diameter at the bottom. That is, insertion port 3152 is wider on the upper side where sample dispensing probe 207 is inserted and narrower on the lower side toward piercer nozzle 311. Therefore, adapter 315 functions as a guide ring for inserting sample dispensing probe 207 into piercer nozzle 311, and eases the requirement for accuracy in aligning sample dispensing probe 207 and piercer needle 310.

[0138] The cleaning medium supply unit 312 is provided at an angle at a lower position where the inner diameter of the insertion opening 3152 of the guide unit 3151 is wider. In other words, it is provided at an angle at the lower part of the adapter 315. For example, a tube 3121 is attached to the cleaning medium supply unit 312, and cleaning water is supplied as a cleaning medium. This causes the inside of the piercer nozzle 311 to be cleaned from above to below.

[0139] 21, in this embodiment, an insulating spacer 311c is provided above the piercer nozzle 311. That is, the adapter 315 may be attached to the piercer nozzle 311 via the insulating spacer 311c.

[0140] The piercer needle 310 according to this embodiment is configured as described above. In this embodiment as well, the cleaning medium supply unit 312 supplies the cleaning medium from diagonally above the axial direction of the piercer nozzle 311, so that it is possible to reduce the flow resistance when the cleaning water hits the inside of the piercer nozzle 311. In addition, the adapter 315 provided with the cleaning medium supply unit 312 also functions as a guide ring when the sample dispensing probe 207 is inserted. Therefore, the requirement for accuracy in aligning the sample dispensing probe 207 and the piercer needle 310 can be relaxed.

[0141] The control of the piercer needle 310 and the sample dispensing probe 207 is the same as in the first embodiment. That is, the piercer nozzle 311 moves in the vertical Y1 direction to pierce the cap CP of the sample container SH. Then, the sample dispensing probe 207 moves in the vertical Y1 direction, passing through the inside of the adapter 315 and the piercer nozzle 311 to aspirate the sample.

[0142] Next, cleaning of the piercer needle 310 in this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 22. In this embodiment as well, cleaning of the piercer needle 310 is performed using a piercer needle cleaning pod 330. That is, the piercer nozzle 311 is inserted into the cleaning tank 332 from an opening AP1 of an upper cover 331 of the piercer needle cleaning pod 330, and the inside and outside of the piercer nozzle 311 are cleaned.

[0143] When cleaning the piercer nozzle 311, cleaning water and cleaning air are supplied as in the first embodiment. However, in this embodiment, cleaning air is supplied from above the adapter 315. Specifically, an internal drying head 70 is temporarily connected above the adapter 315. Then, cleaning air is supplied from the internal drying head 70 to the inside of the piercer nozzle 311.

[0144] The internal drying head 70 moves along the axial direction of the piercer nozzle 311. That is, the internal drying head 70 moves in the Y2 direction, which is the vertical direction. This allows the internal drying head 70 to be connected to the adapter 315. Therefore, the cleaning air is supplied along the axial direction of the piercer nozzle 311 toward the lower side of the piercer nozzle 311. This further reduces the pressure loss of the cleaning air. The cleaning water is supplied from the cleaning water flow path section 312b of the cleaning medium supply section 312 provided obliquely on the side surface of the adapter 315.

[0145] Also, similar to the first embodiment, piercer needle arm 300 and piercer needle 310 are driven by drive mechanism 4. In the example of Fig. 22, piercer needle drive shaft 320 rotates in the Y3 direction by drive of drive mechanism 4. Also, piercer needle drive shaft 320 moves up and down in the Y2 direction, which is the up-down direction, by drive of drive mechanism 4.

[0146] In this embodiment, for example, in step S34 of the piercer needle cleaning control process of Figure 16 described above, cleaning air is supplied to the inside of the piercer nozzle 311 via the internal drying head 70, and cleaning water is supplied to the inside of the piercer nozzle 311 via the cleaning medium supply unit 312.

[0147] The sample dispensing probe washing pod 215 has the same configuration as the piercer needle washing pod 330. That is, the sample dispensing probe washing pod 215 is composed of an upper cover 2151 having an opening AP2, and a washing tank 2152 that houses the sample dispensing probe 207 therein.

[0148] Also in this embodiment, similarly to the first embodiment, a sample suction control process is executed by a sample suction control function 93, and a piercer needle cleaning control process is executed by a piercer needle cleaning control function 94. These processes are similar to those in the first embodiment, and therefore a general description thereof will be omitted.

[0149] As described above, according to the automated analyzer 1 of this embodiment, the cleaning medium supply unit 312 of the piercer needle 310 is attached to the piercer nozzle 311 via the adapter 315. Therefore, similar to the above-described first embodiment, cleaning water can be supplied to the inside of the piercer nozzle 311 from obliquely above with respect to the axial direction of the piercer nozzle 311 via the cleaning medium supply unit 312.

[0150] On the other hand, cleaning air as a cleaning medium is supplied from above the piercer nozzle 311 along the axial direction through the internal drying head 70. This makes it possible to minimize the power loss that occurs when supplying cleaning air.

[0151] In this embodiment, when cleaning the piercer nozzle 311, the internal drying head 70 is temporarily connected to the piercer needle 310 to supply cleaning air. This is because, even if the internal drying head 70 and the piercer needle 310 are not in close contact with each other and cleaning air leaks out from the gap, since it is air, the impact is limited compared to when cleaning water leaks out.

[0152] In this embodiment, as in the first and second embodiments, a cleaning medium supply unit 312 that supplies both cleaning water and cleaning air may be connected to the piercer nozzle 311 via an adapter 315. In this case, the above-mentioned internal drying head 70 and its drive mechanism are not necessary.

[0153] [Modification of the third embodiment] In the above-described third embodiment, the cleaning medium supply unit 312 is provided obliquely on the side surface of the adapter 315. On the other hand, in the modified example of the third embodiment, the cleaning medium supply unit 312 is provided perpendicularly to the side surface of the adapter 315. The following mainly describes the differences from the above-described third embodiment.

[0154] Fig. 23 is a diagram for explaining piercer needle 310 according to this modified example, and corresponds to Fig. 21 of the third embodiment. Fig. 24 is a diagram for explaining cleaning of piercer needle 310 according to this modified example, and corresponds to Fig. 22 of the third embodiment. As can be seen from Figs. 23 and 24, in this modified example, as in the third embodiment, piercer needle 310 according to this embodiment is configured to include piercer nozzle 311, cleaning medium supply unit 312, and adapter 315.

[0155] In this modified example, the cleaning medium supply unit 312 is also provided in the adapter 315. The adapter 315 is attached to the top of the piercer nozzle 311. Therefore, the cleaning medium supply unit 312 is attached to the piercer nozzle 311 via the adapter 315. Therefore, a guide unit 3151 is provided on the top of the adapter 315, and the cleaning medium supply unit 312 is provided on the side of the adapter 315.

[0156] 23 and 24, cleaning medium supply unit 312 is provided vertically below adapter 315. Cleaning water is supplied to cleaning water flow path 312b of cleaning medium supply unit 312 through, for example, tube 3121. This allows cleaning water to be supplied to the inside of piercer nozzle 311, and the inside of piercer nozzle 311 is cleaned from above to below. In addition, adapter 315 is attached to piercer nozzle 311 via insulating spacer 311c.

[0157] The piercer needle 310 according to this modified example is configured as described above. As described above, this modified example has the same configuration as the above-described third embodiment, except that the cleaning medium is supplied from the cleaning medium supply unit 312 to the inside of the piercer nozzle 311 perpendicularly to the axial direction of the piercer nozzle 311. Therefore, like the third embodiment, the sample suction control function 93 executes a sample suction control process, and the piercer needle cleaning control function 94 executes a piercer needle cleaning control process.

[0158] In the above description, an example has been described in which the "processor" in the control circuit 9 reads out and executes a program corresponding to each processing function from a storage circuit, but the embodiment is not limited to this. The term "processor" refers to circuits such as a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a programmable logic device (e.g., a simple programmable logic device (SPLD), a complex programmable logic device (CPLD), and a field programmable gate array (FPGA)). When the processor is, for example, a CPU, the processor realizes each processing function by reading out and executing a program stored in a storage circuit. On the other hand, when the processor is, for example, an ASIC, instead of storing the program in a storage circuit, the processing function is directly incorporated as a logic circuit in the circuit of the processor. Note that each processor in this embodiment is not limited to being configured as a single circuit for each processor, and may be configured as one processor by combining multiple independent circuits to realize its processing function. Furthermore, multiple components in FIG. 1 may be integrated into one processor to realize the processing functions.

[0159] Although some embodiments have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, modifications, and combinations of embodiments can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included in the scope of the invention and its equivalents as described in the claims, as well as in the scope and spirit of the invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0160] 1...automatic analyzer, 2...analysis mechanism, 3...analysis circuit, 4...drive mechanism, 5...input interface, 6...output interface, 7...communication interface, 8...memory circuit, 9...control circuit, 40...solenoid valve, 50...cleaning water supply pump, 60...cleaning air supply compressor, 70...internal drying head, 91...system control function, 92...photometric control function, 93...sample suction control function, 94...piercer needle cleaning control function, 100...reagent container, 201...reaction disk, 202...constant temperature section, 203...rack sampler, 204...reagent storage, 206...sample dispensing arm, 207...sample dispensing probe, 208...reagent dispensing arm, 209...reagent dispensing probe, 210...sample dispensing probe drive shaft, 211...photometric unit, 215...sample dispensing probe washing pod, 300...piercer needle arm, 310...piercer needle, 311...piercer nozzle, 312...cleaning medium supply section, 312a...cleaning air flow path section, 312b...cleaning water flow path section, 313...air vent pipe, 314...air vent pipe, 315...adapter, 320...piercer needle drive shaft, 330...piercer needle washing pod, 331...top cover, 332...cleaning tank, 333...external cleaning medium discharge section, 2011...reaction vessel, 2031...sample rack, 2032...transport area, 2033...area, 2034...area, 2111...light source, 2112...photodetector, 2113...photodetector, 2151...top cover, 2152...cleaning tank, 3121...tube, AR...air vent flow path section, CP...cap, SH...sample vessel

Claims

1. 1. An automated analyzer including a piercer needle for piercing a cap of a sample container, the cap being sealed at the top, The piercer needle is a piercer nozzle having a tip for piercing the cap; a cleaning medium supplying unit that supplies a cleaning medium for cleaning the inside of the piercer nozzle, the cleaning medium being supplied to the inside of the piercer nozzle from obliquely above with respect to an axial direction of the piercer nozzle; Equipped with the cleaning medium is cleaning water and cleaning air; the cleaning medium supply unit includes a common flow path unit through which the cleaning water and the cleaning air flow, an automatic analyzer comprising a switching valve that switches between supplying the cleaning water, supplying the cleaning air, or supplying both the cleaning water and the cleaning air to the common flow path portion.

2. The cleaning medium supply unit includes a cleaning water flow path unit through which the cleaning water flows, and a cleaning air flow path unit through which the cleaning air flows. The automated analyzer according to claim 1 .

3. The automatic analyzer according to claim 2 , wherein the cleaning air flow path section is disposed above the cleaning water flow path section.

4. The piercer needle further includes an air release flow channel portion that communicates the inside of the sample container with the atmosphere outside the sample container when the piercer needle pierces the cap. The automatic analyzer according to claim 1 .

5. The air vent flow passage is configured by providing an air vent pipe along the axial direction on the outside or inside of a side wall of the piercer nozzle, or by providing an air vent groove along the axial direction on the side wall of the piercer nozzle. The automatic analyzer according to claim 4.

6. a probe that moves in the axial direction inside the piercer nozzle to aspirate the sample contained in the sample container; the outer wall of the probe is cleaned with the cleaning medium supplied by the cleaning medium supply unit; The automatic analyzer according to claim 1 .

7. 1. An automated analyzer including a piercer needle for piercing a cap of a sample container, the cap being sealed at the top, The piercer needle is a piercer nozzle having a tip for piercing the cap; a cleaning medium supplying unit that supplies a cleaning medium for cleaning the inside of the piercer nozzle, the cleaning medium being supplied to the inside of the piercer nozzle from obliquely above with respect to an axial direction of the piercer nozzle; Equipped with the cleaning medium is cleaning water and cleaning air; the automated analyzer further includes a probe that moves in the axial direction inside the piercer nozzle to aspirate the sample contained in the sample container; After the sample is aspirated by the probe, the sample adhering to the exterior of the side wall of the probe is wiped off with the cleaning air supplied by the cleaning medium supply unit.

8. a piercer nozzle cleaning mechanism for cleaning the piercer nozzle, The piercer nozzle cleaning mechanism includes: a cleaning tank having an opening on an upper surface thereof and accommodating the piercer nozzle inserted therein through the opening; an external cleaning medium discharge portion that discharges a cleaning medium for cleaning the exterior of the side wall of the piercer nozzle; The automatic analyzer according to claim 1 , further comprising:

9. 9. The automatic analyzer according to claim 8, wherein the cleaning water and the cleaning air are supplied from the cleaning medium supply unit to the inside of the piercer nozzle while the piercer nozzle is inserted into the cleaning tank, thereby cleaning the inside of the side wall of the piercer nozzle.

10. The automated analyzer of claim 1 , wherein the cleaning medium supply is attached directly to the piercer nozzle.

11. The automated analyzer according to claim 1 , wherein the cleaning medium supply unit is attached to the piercer nozzle via an adapter.

12. A piercer needle for use in an automatic analyzer, comprising: a piercer nozzle for piercing a cap of a sample container whose upper surface is sealed by the cap; a cleaning medium supplying unit for supplying a cleaning medium for cleaning the inside of the piercer nozzle, the cleaning medium being supplied to the inside of the piercer nozzle from an obliquely upward direction with respect to an axial direction of the piercer nozzle; Equipped with the cleaning medium is cleaning water and cleaning air; the cleaning medium supply unit includes a common flow path unit through which the cleaning water and the cleaning air flow, A piercer needle comprising a switching valve that switches between supplying the cleaning water, supplying the cleaning air, or supplying both the cleaning water and the cleaning air to the common flow path portion.

13. A piercer needle for use in an automatic analyzer, comprising: a piercer nozzle for piercing a cap of a sample container whose upper surface is sealed by the cap; a cleaning medium supplying unit for supplying a cleaning medium for cleaning the inside of the piercer nozzle, the cleaning medium being supplied to the inside of the piercer nozzle from an obliquely upward direction with respect to an axial direction of the piercer nozzle; Equipped with the cleaning medium is cleaning water and cleaning air; the automated analyzer includes a probe that moves in the axial direction inside the piercer nozzle to aspirate the sample contained in the sample container; After the sample is aspirated by the probe, the sample adhering to the exterior of the side wall of the probe is wiped off by the cleaning air supplied by the cleaning medium supply unit.

Images