Inspection system, cartridge, inspection method, and inspection apparatus

Abstract

To determine the propriety of a cartridge with a simple configuration including a case where a cartridge is unused.SOLUTION: An inspection system (1) includes a cartridge (2) that is provided with identification information and an inspection device (3) that acquires the identification information and performs inspection. The inspection system performs a determination as to the propriety of the cartridge based on the identification information, controls the operation of the inspection device according to a result of the determination, and destroy the cartridge or writes information that the cartridge is used.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an inspection system, a cartridge, an inspection method, and an inspection apparatus.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, in an inspection apparatus or an inspection system for detecting an inspection target contained in a specimen, in order to obtain an appropriate inspection result, it has been required that an appropriate cartridge be attached to the inspection apparatus (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In such an inspection apparatus or inspection system, it is required to appropriately determine the suitability of using the cartridge in the inspection apparatus, including the case where the cartridge is unused.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] An inspection system according to an aspect of the present disclosure includes a cartridge to which identification information is assigned, and an inspection apparatus that acquires the identification information and performs an inspection, determines the suitability of the cartridge based on the identification information, controls the operation of the inspection apparatus according to the result of the determination, and destroys the cartridge or writes information indicating that the cartridge has been used.

[0006] Further, an inspection method according to an aspect of the present disclosure is an inspection method in an inspection system including an inspection apparatus that performs inspection using a cartridge to which identification information is attached, the method including: a step of acquiring the identification information from the cartridge; a step of determining the suitability of the cartridge based on the identification information; and a step of controlling the operation of the inspection apparatus according to the result of the determination to destroy the cartridge or write information indicating that the cartridge has been used.

[0007] Further, an inspection apparatus according to an aspect of the present disclosure is an inspection apparatus that performs inspection using a cartridge to which identification information is attached, the apparatus including: a connection unit that connects to the cartridge; a reading unit that reads the identification information; and a control unit that controls the operation according to the result of determination regarding the suitability of the cartridge based on the identification information to destroy the cartridge or write information indicating that the cartridge has been used.

[0008] Further, the above inspection system includes a cartridge to which identification information is attached and an inspection apparatus that acquires the identification information and performs inspection, and specifies measurement conditions in the inspection apparatus based on the identification information.

[0009] Further, the above inspection method is an inspection method in an inspection system including an inspection apparatus that performs inspection using a cartridge to which identification information is attached, the method including: a step of acquiring the identification information from the cartridge; a step of specifying measurement conditions in the inspection apparatus based on the identification information; and a step of controlling the operation of the inspection apparatus according to the measurement conditions.

[0010] Further, the above inspection apparatus is an inspection apparatus that performs inspection using a cartridge to which identification information is attached, the apparatus including: a connection unit that connects to the cartridge; a reading unit that reads the identification information; and a control unit that controls the operation according to the measurement conditions specified based on the identification information.

Advantages of the Invention

[0011] According to the invention related to the present disclosure, it is possible to determine the suitability of using a cartridge in an inspection device with a simple configuration, including the case where the cartridge is unused.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0012]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0013] 〔Embodiment 1〕 <Configuration of Inspection System 1> Hereinafter, an embodiment of the invention according to the present disclosure will be described in detail. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an inspection system 1 according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a view showing the appearance of an inspection device 3 and a cartridge 2 included in the inspection system 1 according to an embodiment. Note that in the inspection device 3 shown in FIG. 2, the cartridge 2 is not completely attached to the inspection device 3. That is, FIG. 2 shows a state in which the cartridge 2 is being inserted into the inspection device 3.

[0014] An inspection system 1 according to an embodiment is a system that can perform an inspection on an inspection target included in a specimen P and present the result of the inspection to an operator of the inspection device 3 and a requester who requested the inspection. The inspection system 1 according to an embodiment includes a cartridge 2, an inspection device 3, a printing device 4, and a portable terminal (mobile terminal) 5. In the inspection system 1, when the cartridge 2 is connected to the inspection device 3, the inspection device 3 may determine whether the cartridge 2 is appropriate. Further, the inspection device 3 may output the result of the determination. When it is determined that the cartridge 2 is appropriate, the inspection device 3 may start an inspection on the specimen P using the cartridge 2. That is, the cartridge 2 may be used for authentication for the inspection device 3 to start an inspection. The inspection device 3 may display the inspection result of the inspection.

[0015] Hereinafter, in this specification, as an example of the inspection system 1, a configuration for measuring the concentration of an inspection target substance contained in urine as the specimen P will be described. Note that the application target of the inspection system 1 may specifically be an inspection of various cancer tumor markers, viruses such as influenza, bacteria, or substances for inspecting a specific disease (for example, hemoglobin A1c in the case of diabetes). That is, the inspection system 1 may be used for quantitative analysis such as measuring the concentration of an inspection target contained in the specimen P, or qualitative analysis for identifying the type of a substance or the like contained in the specimen P.

[0016] In addition, for example, the inspection system 1 may be used for diagnosing the physiological tendency of a subject or a disease based on the inspection results. The results of the inspection system 1 may be, for example, the presence or absence of a virus, or the concentration of a specific substance (such as cholesterol) in the blood, or the physiological tendency of the subject or the diagnosis of a disease based on these. The physiological tendency may be, for example, the tendency related to the constitution of the subject, such as whether the subject is likely to produce a certain specific substance, whether the subject is likely to contract a certain specific disease, and whether the subject is likely to deteriorate severely when contracting a certain specific disease.

[0017] In addition, the results of the inspection system 1 may be the results obtained by combining the results inspected by the inspection device 3 and the biological information of the subject. Also, the inspection results derived by the inspection device 3 may be, for example, biological information obtained by attaching the inspection device 3 to the subject. The biological information may be, for example, blood pressure, heart rate, pulse wave, blood oxygen concentration, blood viscosity, echo image, and X-ray image. In addition, the inspection results may include the results of inspections performed on subjects such as humans and animals. Specifically, the results of the inspection system 1 may be, for example, the degree of fetal growth determined based on the results obtained by combining the inspection results derived by the inspection device 3 and the echo image obtained by performing an echo examination with the mother as the subject. Also, the results of the inspection system 1 may be the bone density estimated based on the results obtained by combining the inspection results derived by the inspection device 3 and the X-ray image obtained by X-ray imaging with the patient as the subject. In these cases, the inspection system 1 does not necessarily have to use the cartridge 2. That is, the inspection device 3 may, for example, import inspection data from other inspection devices and perform further inspections based on the inspection data. The biological information may be obtained from the inspection device 3 and other inspection devices, databases, etc. For example, the inspection device 3 may be connected to other inspection devices, databases, etc. by wire or wirelessly in a conventionally well-known manner.

[0018] In addition, the inspection device 3 may use a replaceable cartridge 2. Also, a plurality of types of cartridges 2 may be prepared according to the type of inspection. That is, the type of inspection performed by the inspection device 3 is not particularly limited. For example, the example of the specimen P is not limited to urine and may be any substance derived from a living body, such as blood, sweat, saliva, or nasal mucus. The cartridge 2 may be appropriately configured so that the inspection device 3 can detect these specimens P.

[0019] (Configuration of Cartridge 2) The cartridge 2 may be a disposable cartridge that is detachable from the inspection device 3. The cartridge 2 according to one embodiment includes a holding portion 21 that holds a liquid, a liquid receiving portion 22 that takes in the specimen P into the cartridge 2, and a sensor 23 (measurement device) that detects the inspection target contained in the specimen P. Also, a flow path (not shown) is formed inside the cartridge 2. The flow path may be connected to the holding portion 21 and the liquid receiving portion 22. That is, the specimen P and the liquid held by the holding portion 21 may be supplied to the flow path. For example, the specimen P and the liquid may be mixed in the flow path. Also, for example, the specimen P supplied to the flow path may be washed away by the liquid held in the holding portion 21. The flow path may be formed by a conventionally well-known technique.

[0020] The cartridge 2 may be formed of, for example, resin. The resin may be, for example, polycarbonate, cycloolefin polymer, polymethyl methacrylate resin, polydimethylsiloxane, or the like. The cartridge 2 according to one embodiment is composed of polymethyl methacrylate resin.

[0021] The cartridge 2 and the inspection device 3 can mutually input and output electrical signals. That is, the cartridge 2 and the inspection device 3 may be electrically connectable. Terminals or the like for electrically connecting the cartridge 2 and the inspection device 3 may be manufactured by a conventionally well-known method.

[0022] Note that the cartridge 2 does not necessarily have to be physically attached to the inspection device 3. For example, the cartridge 2 may be provided with a communication unit capable of communicating with the inspection device 3. In this case, the cartridge 2 may mutually transmit and receive various information such as electrical signals related to the inspection to and from the inspection device 3 by wired or wireless communication.

[0023] In addition, identification information may be given to the cartridge 2. The identification information may include product identification information which is information for identifying each individual cartridge 2. The product identification information may be, for example, the manufacturing number (serial number) of the cartridge 2. Further, the identification information may include inspection information which is information used by the inspection device 3 to perform an inspection using the cartridge 2. For example, the inspection information may be information about the type of inspection (including information about the inspection object) and / or information about conditions (e.g., reaction temperature and reaction time, etc.) corresponding to the type of inspection.

[0024] A code (e.g., barcode or QR code (registered trademark)) indicating the identification information may be affixed or printed on the cartridge 2. In this case, the inspection device 3 can acquire the identification information from the code by reading the code affixed to the housing of the cartridge 2.

[0025] Note that the identification information may be encrypted. That is, the above-mentioned code affixed or printed on the cartridge 2 may be generated based on the encrypted identification information. The encryption method is not particularly limited, but may be, for example, encryption using a secret key. In the manufacturing process, the identification information may be encrypted with a secret key and the encrypted identification information may be coded (e.g., barcoded or QR code (registered trademark) coded). Thereby, a code including the encrypted identification information can be generated. Also, the secret key used for encryption may be stored in advance in the storage unit 33 of the inspection device 3 or may be acquired by the inspection device 3 from an external device.

[0026] In the cartridge 2, the position where the code is attached or printed is not particularly limited. For example, when the cartridge 2 is heated by the inspection device 3, the code may be attached or printed at a position away from the heated portion of the cartridge 2. That is, the code may be attached or printed at a position in the cartridge 2 where heat is less likely to be transmitted than other portions. For example, when the lower surface of the cartridge 2 is heated, the code may be attached or printed on the upper surface of the cartridge (the surface opposite to the heated surface). In this case, the possibility that the code disappears or fades due to heat during or after the inspection is reduced. Therefore, the inspection system 1 can determine whether the cartridge is appropriate during or after the inspection. Further, the inspection system 1 can reduce the reading error of the code by the inspection device 3. That is, according to the cartridge 2 according to one embodiment, the malfunction of the inspection device 3 can be reduced. Note that the code may be formed of, for example, ink that is less likely to disappear in color due to heat. Or, for example, the code may use ink that changes color at a temperature higher than the temperature at which the cartridge 2 is heated.

[0027] Also, for example, when the cartridge 2 is heated by the inspection device 3, the code may be attached or printed at a position close to the heated portion of the cartridge 2. That is, the code may be attached or printed at a position in the cartridge 2 where heat is more likely to be transmitted than other portions. For example, when the lower surface of the cartridge 2 is heated, the code may be attached or printed on the lower surface of the cartridge 2 (the same surface as the heated surface). In this case, the inspection device 3 can erase or fade the code by heat. Therefore, the possibility that the cartridge 2 once used in the inspection device 3 is reused in the same inspection device 3 or another inspection device 3 can be reduced. That is, according to the cartridge 2 according to one embodiment, malfunction of the inspection device 3 can be reduced. Note that the code may be created with, for example, ink that disappears or fades in color by heat. Also, the heating of the cartridge 2 (heating to the code) may be performed after the determination regarding the suitability of the cartridge 2. Specifically, the heating of the cartridge 2 (heating to the code) may be before the inspection, may be simultaneous with the inspection, or may be after the inspection.

[0028] However, in another aspect, the identification information may be provided to the cartridge 2. For example, a chip with the identification information recorded therein may be pre-embedded inside the cartridge 2. The chip can be configured by well-known techniques and may use, for example, a memory such as an SSD (Solid State Drive). In this case, the identification information of the chip in the cartridge 2 is read directly or indirectly (non-contact) by the inspection device 3. Specifically, the inspection device 3 may be provided with a reader that can be electrically connected to the inside of the cartridge 2. The reader may acquire the identification information from the chip when electrically connected to the cartridge 2. Note that the chip may be destroyed by any method after the determination or inspection regarding the suitability of the cartridge 2 is completed. For example, the inspection device 3 may electrically destroy the chip by short-circuiting or the like. Also, for example, the inspection device 3 may physically destroy the chip with a tool such as a drill provided in the device. Also, for example, the inspection device 3 may write information indicating that the chip has been used and control so that the inspection result is not output when the inspection device 3 reads the information.

[0029] The holding part 21 can hold various liquids. That is, various liquids are enclosed inside the holding part 21. The holding part 21 may be formed of any material according to the type of liquid used for the inspection. For example, when enclosing a liquid that is likely to oxidize, the holding part 21 may be formed of a material with a low oxygen permeability. For example, when using an acidic liquid, the holding part 21 may be formed of an acid-resistant material. Therefore, the holding part 21 may be formed of, for example, aluminum, polypropylene, and polyethylene. In one embodiment, the holding part 21 is formed of polypropylene. Note that the holding part 21 may be formed by a conventionally known technique such as casting.

[0030] The shape of the holding part 21 is not limited to a specific shape as long as it can hold the liquid. The holding part 21 may be, for example, a frustum such as a frustum of a cone, a frustum of a triangular pyramid, and a frustum of a quadrangular pyramid, or a pyramid such as a cone, a triangular pyramid, and a quadrangular pyramid, or a prism such as a cylinder, a triangular prism, and a quadrangular prism, or any combination thereof. In one embodiment, the holding part 21 is a frustum of a cone. Further, the holding part 21 may supply the liquid held by the holding part 21 to the sensor 23 by being pressed by a rod (not shown) of the inspection device 3.

[0031] The liquid receiving part 22 can take in the specimen P into the inside of the cartridge 2 and supply it to the sensor 23. That is, the liquid receiving part 22 is connected to the flow path of the cartridge 2. The shape of the liquid receiving part 22 is not particularly limited. The liquid receiving part 22 may be formed integrally with the flow path of the cartridge 2. Or, the liquid receiving part 22 may be formed separately from the flow path of the cartridge 2. The liquid receiving part 22 may be formed by a conventionally well-known technique.

[0032] FIG. 3 is a plan view showing the configuration of the sensor 23. The sensor 23 according to one embodiment is a sensor using elastic waves, and includes a detection part 24, a reference part 25, a pair of first IDT (Inter Digital Transducer) electrodes 26A, a pair of second IDT electrodes 26B, and a substrate 27. The detection part 24, the reference part 25, the pair of first IDT electrodes 26A, and the pair of second IDT electrodes 26B may be located on the substrate 27.

[0033] The sensor 23 may be, for example, a sensor that utilizes elastic waves, QCM (Quartz Crystal Microbalance), SPR (Surface Plasmon Resonance), or FET (Field Effect Transistor), etc. That is, the sensor 23 only needs to be able to mutually convert an electrical signal and elastic waves, QCM, SPR, FET, etc. Note that the sensor 23 may be manufactured by a conventionally well-known method. The sensor 23 according to one embodiment is a sensor that utilizes elastic waves. That is, the sensor 23 can mutually convert an electrical signal and elastic waves. Also, in this case, the inspection information included in the identification information may include information specific to a sensor that utilizes elastic waves, such as the initial phase of the elastic wave and the orientation of the substrate 27.

[0034] A substance (reactant) that reacts with the inspection target may be fixed to the detection unit 24. Therefore, the inspection target contained in the specimen P can react with the reactant in the detection unit 24. The detection unit 24 may be made of, for example, metal. Specifically, the detection unit 24 may be made of, for example, metals such as gold, chromium, and titanium, or a combination of these metals. Also, the detection unit 24 may be a single-layer metal film composed of a single material or a multi-layer metal film composed of a plurality of materials. Note that the detection unit 24 is not limited to these metals as long as it can fix the reactant. That is, the detection unit 24 may be made of any material capable of fixing the reactant. The detection unit 24 may be manufactured by a conventionally well-known method.

[0035] The reactant may be, for example, an antibody, an enzyme, etc. That is, the inspection target may be an antigen, a substrate, etc. Note that the inspection target is not limited to these examples. For example, the inspection target may be an antibody, an enzyme, etc. That is, the reactant may be, for example, an antigen, a substrate, etc. That is, the combination of the inspection target and the reactant may be appropriately selected according to the symptom, disease, etc. to be inspected by the inspection device 3.

[0036] A pair of first IDT electrodes 26A can generate an elastic wave between the pair of first IDT electrodes 26A. Among the generated elastic waves, the elastic wave propagating on the surface of the substrate 27 is also called a surface acoustic wave (SAW). The pair of first IDT electrodes 26A may be positioned on the substrate 27 so as to sandwich the detection unit 24. In the sensor 23 according to one embodiment, an electrical signal is input to one of the pair of first IDT electrodes 26A under the control of the inspection device 3. The input electrical signal is converted into an elastic wave propagating toward the detection unit 24 and transmitted from one of the first IDT electrodes 26A. The transmitted elastic wave passes through the detection unit 24. The other first IDT electrode 26A can receive the elastic wave that has passed through the detection unit 24. The received elastic wave is converted into an electrical signal. The converted electrical signal is output to the inspection device 3. The pair of first IDT electrodes 26A may be formed of, for example, a metal such as gold, chromium, or titanium, or a combination of these metals. Also, the pair of first IDT electrodes 26A may be a single-layer electrode composed of a single material or a multi-layer electrode composed of a plurality of materials.

[0037] In the detection unit 24, when the inspection target reacts with the reactant, the propagation characteristics of the elastic wave propagating on the substrate 27 change. Specifically, when the inspection target reacts with the reactant, the weight applied to the substrate 27 or the viscosity of the liquid contacting the surface of the substrate 27 changes. The magnitude of these changes correlates with the reaction amount of the inspection target and the reactant. Also, the characteristics of the elastic wave (for example, phase, amplitude, or period, etc.) change by propagating through the detection unit 24. The magnitude of the change in characteristics correlates with the magnitude of the weight applied to the substrate 27 or the magnitude of the viscosity of the liquid contacting the surface of the substrate 27. Therefore, the inspection device 3 can detect the inspection target based on the change in the characteristics of the elastic wave by using the sensor 23. Specifically, the inspection device 3 can measure, for example, the concentration of the inspection target contained in the specimen P.

[0038] Note that the sensor 23 may have two or more combinations of the detection unit 24 and the pair of IDT electrodes 26A. In this case, the inspection device 3 may detect different types of target substances for each combination. Alternatively, the inspection device 3 may detect the same type of target substance in a plurality of combinations and compare the respective detection results, for example.

[0039] Unlike the detection unit 24, no reactant is fixed to the reference unit 25. That is, in the reference unit 25, no reaction between the inspection target and the reactant occurs. Therefore, the reference unit 25 can function as a control for the detection unit 24. The reference unit 25 may be configured the same as or similar to the detection unit 24.

[0040] The pair of second IDT electrodes 26B can generate an elastic wave between the pair of second IDT electrodes 26B. The pair of second IDT electrodes 26B may be positioned on the substrate 27 so as to sandwich the reference unit 25. In the sensor 23 according to one embodiment, an electrical signal is input to one of the pair of second IDT electrodes 26B under the control of the inspection device 3. The input electrical signal is converted into an elastic wave propagating toward the reference unit 25 and transmitted from one of the second IDT electrodes 26B. The transmitted elastic wave passes through the reference unit 25. The other second IDT electrode 26B can receive the elastic wave that has passed through the reference unit 25. The received elastic wave is converted into an electrical signal. The converted electrical signal is output to the inspection device 3. The pair of second IDT electrodes 26B may be configured the same as or similar to the pair of first IDT electrodes 26A.

[0041] The substrate 27 is, for example, a substrate having piezoelectricity. Specifically, the substrate 27 is, for example, a quartz substrate. Note that the substrate 27 is not limited to a quartz substrate as long as it can propagate an elastic wave. That is, the substrate 27 may be made of any material that can propagate an elastic wave. Further, the substrate 27 may be manufactured by a conventionally well-known method.

[0042] (Configuration of the inspection device 3) The inspection device 3 includes a control unit 31, a connection unit 32, a memory unit 33, a display unit 34 (display device), a communication unit 35, and an input unit 36. Further, the control unit 31 includes an information acquisition unit 37, an inspection control unit 38, an arithmetic unit 39, a code generation unit 40, and an output control unit 41. Further, the memory unit 33 may have a database 42.

[0043] The information acquisition unit 37 may acquire identification information from the cartridge 2. The information acquisition unit 37 may output the identification information to the inspection control unit 38 and the arithmetic unit 39. For example, when a code is printed on the cartridge 2, the information acquisition unit 37 can read each piece of information from an image of the code. Further, when the cartridge 2 is replaced, the information acquisition unit 37 can acquire the identification information again.

[0044] The database 42 may include the identification information of the cartridge 2. When the inspection control unit 38 acquires the identification information of the cartridge 2 from the information acquisition unit 37, the inspection control unit 38 may refer to the database 42 in the memory unit 33 and collate the identification information of the cartridge 2 with the identification information registered in the database 42. Thereby, the inspection control unit 38 can make a determination regarding the suitability of the cartridge 2. The inspection control unit 38 may perform an operation according to the result of the determination. In other words, the inspection control unit 38 controls the operation of the inspection device according to the result of the determination. Note that the inspection control unit 38 may perform the determination by executing a determination program stored in advance in the memory unit 33 for making the determination. Further, when an input to start the inspection is made by the operator of the inspection device 3, the inspection control unit 38 may control the inspection environment of the cartridge 2 based on the information on the inspection conditions included in the inspection information.

[0045] For example, the inspection control unit 38 may collate the product identification information of the cartridge 2 included in the database 42 with the product identification information included in the identification information assigned to the cartridge 2 to determine whether the cartridge 2 is a proper product.

[0046] When a code containing encrypted identification information is attached to the cartridge 2, when the cartridge 2 is connected to the inspection device 3, the information acquisition unit 37 reads the code. The inspection control unit 38 decrypts the encrypted identification information included in the read code with the secret key stored in the storage unit 33. If decryption with the secret key fails, the inspection control unit 38 may determine that the cartridge 2 is not a proper product. That is, the inspection control unit 38 may determine whether the encrypted identification information can be decrypted with the secret key in determining whether the cartridge 2 is a proper product. If decryption with the secret key is successful, the inspection control unit 38 may start the inspection considering that the cartridge 2 is a proper product, or may perform a further authenticity determination by comparing the decrypted identification information with the product identification information in the database 42.

[0047] A proper product includes, for example, a dedicated product used for the inspection of the inspection device 3, a product approved by a certification body based on laws (such as the law in Japan regarding ensuring the quality, effectiveness, and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, etc.), or a genuine product manufactured through a regular route. That is, if the cartridge 2 is a proper product such as a dedicated product or a genuine product, the inspection control unit 38 may determine that the cartridge 2 is proper.

[0048] Also, if the cartridge 2 is a product other than a proper product such as a dedicated product used for other inspections or a counterfeit product manufactured through an irregular route, the inspection control unit 38 may determine that the cartridge 2 is not proper. The inspection device 3 may start the inspection when it determines that the cartridge 2 is proper. Also, when it determines that the cartridge 2 is not proper, the inspection control unit 38 may output the determination result to the output control unit 41 without starting the inspection and cause the display unit 34 to display a message prompting the replacement of the cartridge 2.

[0049] For example, the inspection control unit 38 may collate the inspection information included in the database 42 with the inspection information included in the identification information assigned to the cartridge 2 to determine whether the cartridge 2 matches the type of inspection. That is, the inspection control unit 38 may determine whether the cartridge 2 can be used for the inspection of the inspection apparatus 3. That is, when the inspection control unit 38 determines that the cartridge 2 can be used for the inspection of the inspection apparatus 3, it may determine that the cartridge 2 is appropriate. Further, when the inspection control unit 38 determines that the cartridge 2 cannot be used for the inspection of the inspection apparatus 3, it may determine that the cartridge 2 is not appropriate. For example, even if the cartridge 2 is a proper product, when it is for an inspection different from the inspection performed by the inspection apparatus 3 (for example, when the cartridge 2 inspects influenza virus but the inspection apparatus 3 inspects blood glucose level), the inspection control unit 38 may determine that the cartridge 2 is not appropriate. When the inspection control unit 38 determines that the cartridge 2 can be used for the inspection of the inspection apparatus 3, it may determine that the cartridge 2 is appropriate. When it is determined that the cartridge 2 is appropriate, the inspection apparatus 3 may start the inspection. Further, when it is determined that the cartridge 2 is not appropriate, the inspection control unit 38 may output the determination result to the output control unit 41 without starting the inspection, and cause the display unit 34 to display a message prompting the replacement of the cartridge 2.

[0050] Note that the inspection device 3 may periodically update the identification information included in the database 42. For example, when the inspection system 1 is connected to a network, the inspection device 3 may update the identification information via the network. The inspection device 3 may update the identification information included in the database 42 each time the cartridge 2 is determined, in which case the identification information in the database 42 is updated before the determination. Also, for example, an external device such as a USB (Universal Serial Bus) storing new identification information may be connected to the inspection device 3 to update the identification information. In this case, the inspection device 3 only needs to appropriately have a port for connecting the external device. By periodically updating the identification information, the inspection device 3 can obtain new inspection items, new cartridges, new authentication algorithms, etc. That is, in the inspection system 1, the convenience during the use of the inspection system 1 can be improved.

[0051] When the arithmetic unit 39 acquires an electrical signal from the sensor 23, it may calculate the concentration of the inspection target as an inspection result. The arithmetic unit 39 may output the calculated inspection result to the code generation unit 40 and the output control unit 41.

[0052] The code generation unit 40 may acquire the inspection result from the arithmetic unit 39 and generate a code (e.g., QR code (registered trademark), barcode) indicating the inspection result. The code generation unit 40 may output the generated code to the output control unit 41.

[0053] The output control unit 41 controls various outputs of the inspection device 3. Specifically, when the output control unit 41 acquires a determination result regarding the suitability of the cartridge 2 from the inspection control unit 38, it may display the determination result on the display unit 34. Also, when the output control unit 41 acquires an inspection result from the arithmetic unit 39, it may display the inspection result on the display unit 34. Further, the output control unit 41 may output the code and the inspection result acquired from the code generation unit 40 to the printing device 4 via the communication unit 35. Note that the output control unit 41 may also display the inspection result on the display unit 34.

[0054] The connection part 32 can be connected to the cartridge 2 to exchange various information. Specifically, the connection part 32 can be, for example, a communication module for performing wireless or wired communication, or a mechanism (terminal) that enables the inspection device 3 and the cartridge 2 to be electrically connected when the cartridge 2 is attached to the connection part 32, allowing information to be exchanged by electrical signals. When the connection part 32 is a communication module, the connection part 32 can function as a reading part for reading the identification information of the cartridge 2.

[0055] A database 42 may be pre-stored in the storage part 33. The database 42 may be a database regarding the identification information of the appropriate cartridge 2. The database 42 may store information for identifying the identification information of the usable cartridge 2, or information for identifying the identification information of the unusable cartridge 2 (for example, the cartridge 2 that has been used once). Further, a determination program for determining the suitability of the cartridge 2 may be stored in the storage part 33. Also, information such as arithmetic expressions and calibration curve data used by the arithmetic part 39 for arithmetic may be stored in the storage part 33.

[0056] When a code indicating information such as identification information is printed on the cartridge 2, the inspection device 3 may further include an imaging part 43 (camera) as a reading part for reading the code attached to the cartridge 2.

[0057] (Configuration of the printing device 4) The printing device 4 includes a receiving part 45, a control part 46, an output part 47, and a printing part 48. The control part 46 of the printing device 4 may obtain the inspection result and the code indicating the inspection result via the receiving part 45. Also, the control part 46 may control the output part 47 to output a medium such as paper. The control part 46 may control the printing part 48 to print the inspection result and the code on the medium output from the output part 47.

[0058] (Configuration of the mobile terminal 5) The mobile terminal 5 is a mobile terminal device that acquires a code indicating an inspection result and displays the inspection result indicated by the code. The mobile terminal 5 is a general-purpose portable information processing terminal device such as a smartphone or a tablet terminal, for example, but its type is not particularly limited. The mobile terminal 5 includes a control unit 51, a communication unit 52, an input unit 53, an imaging unit 54, and a display unit 55.

[0059] The control unit 51 includes an imaging control unit 56, an inspection result reading unit 57, and an output control unit 58. When an input operation for activating the imaging unit 54 is performed from the input unit 53, the imaging control unit 56 may activate the imaging unit 54. Further, the imaging control unit 56 may control the imaging unit 54 according to an input from the input unit 53 and image the code printed by the printing device 4.

[0060] The inspection result reading unit 57 may acquire an image of the code imaged by the imaging unit 54. The inspection result reading unit 57 can analyze the image of the code and read the inspection result included in the code. After acquiring the inspection result from the inspection result reading unit 57, the output control unit 58 may control the display unit 55 to display the inspection result.

[0061] The input unit 53 is an input device that receives an input operation from an operator of the inspection device 3 and may be a touch panel, for example. The imaging unit 54 is a digital camera that performs imaging under the control of the imaging control unit 56. The display unit 55 is a display device that displays the inspection result, and for example, the touch panel of the input unit 53 may also serve as the display unit 55.

[0062] <An example of the processing flow of the inspection device> FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing flow performed in the inspection device 3. First, when the cartridge 2 is connected to the connection unit 32 of the inspection device 3, the information acquisition unit 37 acquires the identification information given to the cartridge 2 via the connection unit 32 (S1). The information acquisition unit 37 outputs the identification information to the inspection control unit 38 and the arithmetic unit 39.

[0063] When the inspection control unit 38 acquires the identification information, it refers to the database 42 in the storage unit 33 and determines the suitability of the cartridge 2 (S2). Specifically, when the identification information of the cartridge 2 is registered in the database 42 as the identification information of a proper cartridge 2, the inspection control unit 38 determines that the cartridge 2 is a proper cartridge.

[0064] The inspection control unit 38 performs an operation according to the result of the determination. Specifically, when it is determined that the cartridge 2 is not a proper cartridge (NO in S2), the inspection control unit 38 causes the display unit 34 to display the determination result and a message prompting the replacement of the cartridge 2 via the output control unit 41 (S3).

[0065] When the cartridge 2 is replaced (YES in S4), the process returns to the process of S1, the information acquisition unit 37 acquires the identification information of the cartridge 2 again (S1), and the inspection control unit 38 determines the suitability of the cartridge 2 again (S2).

[0066] On the other hand, when it is determined that the cartridge 2 is a proper cartridge (YES in S2), the inspection control unit 38 outputs the determination result to the output control unit 41. When the output control unit 41 acquires the determination result, it controls the display unit 34 to display a screen indicating that the cartridge 2 mounted on the inspection device 3 is proper as the determination result and a screen prompting the start operation of the inspection (S5).

[0067] After S5, when an operation to start the inspection is performed from the input unit 36 by the operator of the inspection apparatus 3, the inspection is started in the inspection apparatus 3. The inspection control unit 38 controls the cartridge 2 based on the inspection information and adjusts the inspection conditions (S6). Specifically, the inspection control unit 38 controls the rod of the inspection apparatus 3 to press the holding unit 21 of the cartridge 2, and supplies the liquid (specimen P) held by the holding unit 21 to the sensor 23. Also, the specimen P is supplied from the liquid receiving unit 22 to the sensor 23 through the flow path. Further, the inspection control unit 38 adjusts the temperature of the cartridge 2 so as to reach a temperature suitable for the inspection. Also, the inspection control unit 38 sets the reaction time of the specimen P on the sensor 23. Thereafter, the inspection control unit 38 controls the sensor 23 to generate an elastic wave.

[0068] The calculation unit 39 acquires the inspection information included in the identification information from the information acquisition unit 37, and acquires an electrical signal indicating an elastic wave from the sensor 23. The calculation unit 39 refers to the storage unit 33 and acquires information necessary for calculations such as arithmetic expressions according to the type of inspection indicated by the inspection information to obtain the inspection result. The calculation unit 39 calculates the concentration of the inspection target as the inspection result based on the information necessary for the calculation and the electrical signal of the elastic wave (S7).

[0069] For example, the calculation unit 39 can detect the inspection target based on the electrical signal (detection signal) of the elastic wave that has passed through the detection unit 24 with reference to the electrical signal (reference signal) of the elastic wave that has passed through the reference unit 25. Specifically, if the inspection target is included in the specimen P, a difference occurs between the detection signal and the reference signal because the inspection target reacts with the reactant. Therefore, for example, the calculation unit 39 can detect the inspection target by taking the difference between the reference signal from the detection signal. The calculation unit 39 outputs the calculated inspection result to the code generation unit 40 and the output control unit 41.

[0070] When the code generation unit 40 acquires the inspection result, it may generate a code indicating the inspection result. The code generation unit 40 may output the generated code to the output control unit 41.

[0071] When the output control unit 41 acquires the inspection result from the arithmetic unit 39, it controls the display unit 34 to display the inspection result (S8). Further, when the output control unit 41 acquires the inspection result and the code indicating the inspection result, it outputs them to the printing device 4 via the communication unit 35.

[0072] When the control unit 46 of the printing device 4 acquires the inspection result and the code indicating the inspection result from the inspection device 3 via the receiving unit 45, it controls the output unit 47 and the printing unit 48 to print and output the inspection result and the code on a medium such as paper.

[0073] <Flow of processing of the mobile terminal 5> FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of processing performed in the mobile terminal 5. The imaging control unit 56 of the mobile terminal 5 activates the imaging unit 54 by an input operation of a user (the requester who requested the inspection) and images the code printed on a medium such as paper (S11). The inspection result reading unit 57 acquires the image of the code and reads the information (inspection result) indicated by the code (S12). The inspection result reading unit 57 outputs the read inspection result to the output control unit 58. When the output control unit 58 acquires the inspection result, it controls the display unit 55 to display the inspection result (S13).

[0074] Note that the inspection device 3 may directly transmit the inspection result to the communication unit 52 of the mobile terminal 5 via the communication unit 35. In this case, the processing of S11 to S13 may be omitted.

[0075] <Effects of the inspection system 1> The inspection system 1 according to an embodiment includes a cartridge 2 to which identification information is assigned, and an inspection device 3 that performs an inspection using the cartridge 2. Further, the inspection device 3 can acquire the identification information of the cartridge 2 and perform a determination regarding the suitability of the cartridge 2 based on the identification information before the start of the inspection. According to the above configuration, the identification information assigned to the cartridge 2 may be read, and a determination regarding the suitability of the cartridge 2 may be made before a series of inspections is started. Therefore, the suitability of the cartridge 2 can be determined with a simple configuration.

[0076] A cartridge 2 according to an embodiment includes a sensor 23 that detects an inspection target included in a specimen P. Further, the determination in the inspection apparatus 3 may be performed before the supply of the specimen P to the sensor 23. With the above configuration, since the suitability of the cartridge 2 is determined before the start of the operations related to a series of inspections, it is possible to prevent operations for inappropriate inspections from being performed.

[0077] Further, the inspection system 1 includes a printing apparatus 4 that acquires the results of an inspection from the inspection apparatus 3 and prints the results of the inspection and a code indicating the results of the inspection on a medium. Further, a portable terminal 5 included in the inspection system 1 includes an imaging unit 54 that reads the printed code. The inspection system 1 can display the code read by the imaging unit 54 on the display unit 55 of the portable terminal 5.

[0078] In the above configuration, since a code indicating the inspection results is printed, the inspection results can be handed over as paper by a doctor or the like, who is the inspector, to the person who requested the inspection. The person who requested the inspection can input the inspection results into the portable terminal 5 and display them by reading the code using the portable terminal 5.

[0079] Further, the inspection apparatus 3 may include a display unit 34 that displays information. The output control unit 41 may display the results of an inspection regarding the inspection target on the display unit 34. According to the above configuration, the results of the inspection can be notified to the operator of the inspection apparatus 3.

[0080] <Modification> In the above-described Embodiment 1, the determination result regarding the suitability of the cartridge 2 was only displayed on the inspection apparatus 3. However, in the inspection system 1, the inspection apparatus 3 may transmit the determination result to the portable terminal 5, and the portable terminal 5 may display the determination result on the display unit 55.

[0081] In this case, after the inspection control unit 38 determines the suitability of the cartridge 2, the inspection control unit 38 may transmit the result of the determination to the communication unit 52 of the portable terminal 5 via the communication unit 35. When the control unit 51 of the portable terminal 5 acquires the result of the determination, the control unit 51 may control the display unit 55 to display the result of the determination.

[0082] Accordingly, it is possible to notify the requester of the inspection, who is the owner of the mobile terminal 5, whether the inspection has been performed using the appropriate cartridge 2.

[0083] Further, the identification information of the cartridge 2 may include specific information for identifying the inspection device 3 corresponding to (capable of using) the cartridge 2. In this case, the inspection control unit 38 may determine that the cartridge 2 is appropriate when the cartridge 2 is used in the inspection device 3 corresponding to the specific information of the cartridge 2. The inspection device 3 may start the inspection when the cartridge 2 is appropriate. That is, the inspection system 1 according to one embodiment may start the inspection when the cartridge 2 is used in the inspection device 3 corresponding to the specific information.

[0084] Specifically, the information acquisition unit 37 may acquire the specific information included in the identification information of the cartridge 2 and output it to the inspection control unit 38. The inspection control unit 38 may determine whether the inspection device indicated by the acquired specific information is the own device (appropriate inspection device) by comparing the specific information with the identification information of the own device. Further, the inspection control unit 38 may determine the propriety of the cartridge 2 based on the identification information of the cartridge 2. When the inspection device 3 is an appropriate inspection device and the cartridge 2 is determined to be appropriate from the identification information of the cartridge 2, the inspection may be started. On the other hand, when the inspection device 3 is not an appropriate inspection device or when it is determined from the identification information of the cartridge 2 that the cartridge 2 is not appropriate, the inspection control unit 38 may perform a display prompting the replacement of the cartridge 2 without starting the inspection.

[0085] Also, the expiration date of the cartridge 2 may be pre-recorded in the database 42 of the memory unit 33. That is, for example, the inspection control unit 38 may collate the expiration date of the cartridge 2 included in the database 42 with the expiration date included in the identification information assigned to the cartridge 2 to determine whether the cartridge 2 is used within the expiration date. That is, the inspection control unit 38 may determine whether the cartridge 2 can be used for inspection. Specifically, the inspection control unit 38 may refer to the database 42 and acquire information about the expiration date of the cartridge 2. Subsequently, the inspection control unit 38 may determine whether the expiration date has passed. When performing the inspection, the inspection control unit 38 may determine that the cartridge 2 is suitable for inspection if the expiration date of the cartridge 2 has not passed. Also, when performing the inspection, if the expiration date of the cartridge 2 has passed, the inspection control unit 38 may determine that the cartridge 2 is not appropriate. When it is determined that the cartridge 2 is suitable for inspection, the inspection device 3 may start the inspection. Also, when it is determined that the cartridge 2 is not suitable for inspection, the inspection control unit 38 may cause the display unit 34 to display a message prompting the replacement of the cartridge 2 without starting the inspection. Note that the expiration date may be, for example, the expiration date guaranteed by the manufacturer or the recommended usage period in the cartridge 2, etc.

[0086] Alternatively, the inspection control unit 38 may determine whether the cartridge 2 is appropriate based on the expiration date included in the identification information assigned to the cartridge 2. In this case, the information acquisition unit 37 may acquire information about the expiration date of the cartridge 2 and output it to the inspection control unit 38. When the inspection control unit 38 acquires information about the expiration date, it may determine whether the expiration date of the cartridge 2 has passed. When performing the inspection, if the expiration date of the cartridge 2 has not passed, the inspection control unit 38 may determine that the cartridge 2 is appropriate. Also, when performing the inspection, if the expiration date of the cartridge 2 has passed, the inspection control unit 38 may determine that the cartridge 2 is not appropriate. When the inspection device 3 determines that the cartridge 2 is suitable for inspection, it may start the inspection. Also, when it is determined that the cartridge 2 is not suitable for inspection, the inspection control unit 38 may cause the display unit 34 to display a message prompting the replacement of the cartridge 2 without starting the inspection.

[0087] Further, when the cartridge 2 is appropriate, the inspection device 3 may start the inspection without receiving a start operation from the input unit 36 by the operator. According to the above configuration, the time from cartridge 2 installation to inspection result display can be shortened.

[0088] Also, the inspection device 3 may communicate with an external management server that manages the database 42 via the communication unit 35 and update the database 42. Thereby, the database 42 can be kept in the latest state. Such communication may be performed periodically or when the user performs an input operation instructing an update.

[0089] Also, the inspection information may include information necessary for calculations such as arithmetic expressions and calibration curve data. In this case, after acquiring the inspection information and the electrical signal, the calculation unit 39 can calculate the inspection result using the information included in the inspection information without referring to the storage unit 33.

[0090] Further, the inspection system 1 may include a display device having a display unit separately from the display unit 34 provided in the inspection device 3. In this case, the inspection device 3 may cause the display device to display the determination result regarding the suitability of the cartridge 2 or various inspection results.

[0091] 〔Embodiment 2〕 Other embodiments of the invention according to the present disclosure will be described below. For convenience of explanation, members having the same functions as the members described in Embodiment 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will not be repeated. The same applies to other embodiments.

[0092] FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an inspection system 1A according to another embodiment. Different from the inspection system 1, the inspection system 1A has a determination server (management device) 6. The inspection device of the inspection system 1A is referred to as an inspection device 3A.

[0093] In the inspection system 1A, the inspection control unit 38A does not perform a determination regarding the suitability of the cartridge 2, and the determination may be made by the determination server 6. Therefore, the information acquisition unit 37A may transmit the acquired identification information to the determination server 6 via the communication unit 35. The output control unit 41A can acquire the determination result from the determination server 6 via the communication unit 35. Further, the output control unit 41A may control the display unit 34 to display a screen according to the acquired determination result.

[0094] The determination server 6 may receive the identification information of the cartridge 2 from the inspection device 3A via a communication unit (not shown) and perform a determination regarding the suitability of the cartridge 2. The determination server 6 includes a control unit 61 and a storage unit 62. The control unit 61 includes a determination unit 63. The determination unit 63 may receive the identification information from the inspection device 3A and execute a determination program for determining the suitability of the cartridge 2. Further, the determination unit 63 may transmit the result of the determination to the inspection device 3A. The determination program and the database 64 may be stored in advance in the storage unit 62. The database 64 may be a database similar to the database 42.

[0095] <An example of the processing flow of the inspection device 3A> FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing flow performed in the inspection device 3A. First, when the cartridge 2 is connected to the inspection device 3A, the information acquisition unit 37A acquires the identification information of the cartridge 2 via the connection unit 32 in the same manner as in S1 (S21). The information acquisition unit 37A outputs the acquired inspection information to the inspection control unit 38A and the calculation unit 39.

[0096] Next, the information acquisition unit 37A transmits the identification information to the determination server 6 via the communication unit 35 (S22). When the determination unit 63 of the determination server 6 acquires the identification information, it refers to the database 64 and determines whether the cartridge 2 is appropriate. Since the method of this determination is the same as the method performed by the inspection control unit 38 in S2, the description thereof is omitted.

[0097] When the determination unit 63 determines whether the cartridge 2 is appropriate, it transmits the result of the determination to the inspection device 3A. The output control unit 41A acquires the result of the determination as to whether the cartridge 2 is appropriate from the determination server 6 via the communication unit 35 (S23). When the acquired determination result indicates that "the cartridge 2 is not appropriate" (NO in S24), the output control unit 41A performs the processes of S25 and S26 in the same manner as in S3 and S4. On the other hand, when the acquired determination result indicates that "the cartridge 2 is appropriate" (YES in S24), the output control unit 41A performs the processes from S27 to S30 in the same manner as in S5 to S8.

[0098] <Effect of the inspection system 1A> The inspection system 1A according to another embodiment includes a determination server 6 that acquires the identification information of the cartridge 2 from the inspection device 3A via a communication network. Further, the determination server 6 can determine whether the cartridge 2 is appropriate based on the identification information.

[0099] In the above configuration, based on the identification information acquired from the inspection device 3, the determination server 6 can determine the suitability of the cartridge 2. If the determination server 6 is connected to a plurality of inspection devices 3 via the Internet or the like, the identification information of the cartridge 2 can be comprehensively managed, and unauthorized use such as using the identification number used in one inspection device 3 in another inspection device 3 can be detected.

[0100] 〔Embodiment 3〕 Other embodiments of the invention according to the present disclosure will be described below. For the sake of convenience of explanation, members having the same functions as the members described in Embodiment 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will not be repeated.

[0101] FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an inspection system 1B according to an embodiment. Different from the inspection system 1, the inspection system 1B has an inspection device 3B. As shown in FIG. 8, in addition to the configuration of the inspection device 3, the inspection device 3B includes a control unit 31B having an arithmetic unit 39B, an operation control unit 70, and a destruction unit 71. In the inspection system 1B, after the arithmetic unit 39B calculates the inspection result, the cartridge 2 used in the inspection is destroyed.

[0102] The arithmetic unit 39B calculates the inspection result in the same manner as the arithmetic unit 39, and outputs the inspection result to the code generation unit 40 and the output control unit 41. Further, the arithmetic unit 39B outputs information indicating that the inspection has ended to the operation control unit 70 at the same time as the output of the inspection result.

[0103] When the operation control unit 70 acquires information indicating that the inspection has ended from the arithmetic unit 39B, it controls the destruction unit 71 to destroy the cartridge 2 connected to the inspection device 3B.

[0104] The destruction unit 71 destroys the cartridge 2 according to the control of the operation control unit 70. The method for the destruction unit 71 to destroy the cartridge 2 is not particularly limited, as long as the inspection device 3B cannot perform an inspection using the cartridge 2 when the destroyed cartridge 2 is reconnected to the inspection device 3B. For example, the destruction unit 71 may destroy the cartridge 2 by physically making it impossible for the cartridge 2 to be connected to the inspection device 3, such as by folding the terminals of the cartridge 2 or making holes in the terminals.

[0105] Alternatively, when a code including identification information is printed on the cartridge 2, the destruction unit 71 may make it impossible for the inspection device 3 to perform an inspection using the cartridge 2 by making the code unreadable. For example, the destruction unit 71 may overwrite the code with ink so that the code cannot be read from above the barcode. Also, when the code is printed using ink that disappears by heat, the destruction unit 71 may be a heating unit that performs heating, and may erase the code by heating the code.

[0106] Note that when using a method that makes it difficult to visually confirm that the cartridge 2 has been destroyed, it is preferable for the inspection device 3 to add information to the destroyed cartridge 2 that allows the fact that the cartridge 2 has been destroyed to be visually confirmed. For example, the inspection device 3 may print characters such as "used" on the destroyed cartridge 2.

[0107] <Effect of the inspection system 1B> In the inspection system 1B according to another embodiment, the destruction unit 71 destroys the cartridge 2 after the inspection is completed. Thereby, the possibility that the used cartridge 2 is reused can be reduced.

[0108] 〔Embodiment 4〕 Other embodiments of the invention according to the present disclosure will be described below.

[0109] FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an inspection system 1C according to another embodiment. The inspection system 1C is different from the inspection system 1 of the first embodiment in that the inspection apparatus 3C has a signal output unit 73 and the control unit 31 has a signal control unit 72. The inspection apparatus of the inspection system 1C is referred to as the inspection apparatus 3C.

[0110] In the inspection system 1C, when the cartridge 2 is connected to the inspection apparatus 3C, the inspection apparatus 3C may specify the measurement conditions of the inspection apparatus 3 based on the identification information of the cartridge 2.

[0111] In the fourth embodiment, the identification information may include characteristic information that is related to the characteristics of the sensor 23 provided in the cartridge 2 as part of the inspection information. The characteristic information may include sensitivity information of the sensor 23, information on the electrical signal input to the sensor 23 (electrical signal information), or parameter information for analyzing the output value from the sensor 23. The electrical signal information may be, for example, information on the frequency of the electrical signal input to the sensor 23 (frequency information). The characteristic information is used to improve the accuracy of the inspection using the cartridge 2. The identification information may also include product identification information. The product identification information may be, for example, the manufacturing number (serial number) of the cartridge 2 assigned to each individual cartridge 2. Alternatively, the product identification information may be a lot number assigned to each manufacturing lot of the cartridge 2.

[0112] FIG. 10 is an example of a table showing the items included in the identification information of the cartridge 2. In the example shown in FIG. 10, the identification information includes the element sensitivity (immobilization amount) indicating the sensitivity of the sensor 23 as sensitivity information, the frequency of the electrical signal input to the sensor 23 as an example of the electrical signal information, and calibration curve parameters a to e as parameter information.

[0113] Frequency information is, for example, information indicating a frequency suitable for measurement by the cartridge 2. In one embodiment, in the sensor 23, an electrical signal is input to one of the pair of first IDT electrodes 26A. In the measurement by the sensor 23, it is advantageous to use a frequency at which the amplitude ratio (amplitude attenuation amount) of the output signal with respect to the input signal is smaller. The frequency at which the amplitude attenuation amount is the smallest (optimal frequency) may vary for each individual sensor 23 or for each manufacturing lot of the sensor 23 due to, for example, the physical or mechanical characteristics of the sensor 23. Therefore, the frequency information included in the identification information may be information indicating the optimal frequency for each individual sensor 23. By performing measurement using the optimal frequency, the inspection system 1C can improve inspection capabilities including inspection accuracy or inspection sensitivity.

[0114] Note that the electrical signal information may be information other than the frequency information of the electrical signal input to the sensor 23 suitable for measurement by the cartridge 2.

[0115] Parameter information is, for example, a parameter of an arithmetic expression used by the inspection device 3 to calculate the concentration of the inspection target from the output value of the sensor 23. In one embodiment, when the inspection device 3C (arithmetic unit 39C) acquires the electrical signal output from the sensor 23 and calculates a phase difference signal that is the phase difference from the electrical signal input to the sensor 23, for example, the concentration of the inspection target can be calculated as an inspection result using the arithmetic expression (approximate function) shown in the following formula (1). The phase difference signal may be obtained from the difference between the absolute phase of the electrical signal input to the sensor 23 and the absolute phase of the electrical signal output from the sensor 23. The arithmetic expression may be stored in the storage unit 33C.

Equation

[0116] The sensitivity information is, for example, information indicating the sensitivity of sensor 23. The sensitivity of sensor 23 may differ for each individual sensor 23 or for each production lot of sensor 23 with respect to the electrical signal input to sensor 23.

[0117] For example, consider the case where the same concentration of the inspection target is measured using two sensors 23 whose arithmetic expressions used to calculate the concentration of the inspection target from the output value of sensor 23 are in a similar relationship. If the sensitivities to the input electrical signals are different, different electrical signals are output from each sensor 23. Therefore, the concentrations calculated as the results of calculations using the phase difference signals calculated from the electrical signals are calculated differently.

[0118] For example, although the above formula (1) can be converted into the following formula (2), in the case of sensors 23 with different sensitivities to the input electrical signal, the relationship between the phase difference signal and the concentration is represented by the following formula (3). That is, since the concentration of the inspection target is obtained from the phase difference signal by the following formula (4) obtained by converting the following formula (3), the concentration is calculated differently from the above formula (1).

Equation

Equation

Equation

[0119] By correcting the parameters of the arithmetic expression used to calculate the concentration of the inspection target from the output value of the sensor 23 using the sensitivity information, the concentration can be calculated more accurately. For example, the above formula (4) can also be said to be a formula in which the parameters a and d of the above formula (1) are corrected to α × a and α × d, respectively. Therefore, by correcting the parameters a and d of the arithmetic expression to α × a and α × d, respectively, the concentration can be accurately calculated.

[0120] In the inspection system 1C of Embodiment 4, the signal control unit 72 may specify the measurement conditions of the inspection device 3 based on the identification information. For example, the signal control unit 72 can use the frequency information included in the identification information as the frequency of the electrical signal output to the sensor 23.

[0121] When the signal control unit 72 specifies the frequency, it may output signal information indicating the frequency to the signal output unit 73. The signal output unit 73 may output an electrical signal to the cartridge 2 based on the signal information received from the signal control unit 72.

[0122] In the inspection system 1C of Embodiment 4, the calculation unit 39C may specify an arithmetic expression suitable for the cartridge 2 by using the arithmetic expression (for example, formula (1)) stored in the storage unit 33C and the parameter information included in the identification information of the cartridge 2. In the present disclosure, the specification of such an arithmetic expression is also included in the concept of specifying the measurement conditions. Subsequently, the calculation unit 39C may analyze the output value from the sensor 23 using the specified arithmetic expression.

[0123] When the calculation unit 39C acquires an electrical signal from the sensor 23, it may output the inspection result calculated using the specified arithmetic expression to the code generation unit 40 and the output control unit 41.

[0124] Also, in the inspection system 1C of Embodiment 4, the calculation unit 39C may specify the sensitivity of the sensor 23 as one of the measurement conditions by using the sensitivity information included in the identification information of the cartridge 2, and correct the parameters of the arithmetic expression.

[0125] When the sensitivity information is included in the identification information of the cartridge 2, when the calculation unit 39C acquires an electric signal from the sensor 23, the calculation unit 39C corrects the parameters of the arithmetic expression using the specified sensitivity. Thereafter, the calculation unit 39C may output the inspection result calculated using the arithmetic expression in which the phase difference signal and the corrected parameters are substituted to the code generation unit 40 and the output control unit 41.

[0126] Note that the signal control unit 72 or the calculation unit 39C may specify the measurement conditions based on the product identification information included in the identification information. Specifically, the signal control unit 72 or the calculation unit 39C may acquire, for example, the measurement conditions corresponding to the product identification information via the communication network. In this case, the inspection system 1C may include a determination server 6C (not shown) having the same configuration as the determination server 6 described in the second embodiment (see FIG. 6). The information acquisition unit 37C may transmit the product identification information to the determination server 6C via the communication unit 35C. The determination server 6C may specify the measurement conditions corresponding to the product identification information, for example, by referring to a table showing the correspondence between the product identification information and the measurement conditions. The signal control unit 72 can acquire the measurement conditions specified by the determination server 6C via the communication unit 35C.

[0127] In the fourth embodiment, the aspect in which the inspection device 3C specifies the measurement conditions of the inspection device 3 based on the identification information of the cartridge 2 when the cartridge 2 is connected to the inspection device 3C has been described. However, the specification of the measurement conditions may be made, for example, after it is determined whether the cartridge is appropriate based on the identification information. Specifically, for example, it may be performed in the step (S6) of adjusting the inspection conditions in the flowchart shown in FIG. 4.

[0128] <Effect of the inspection system 1C> The inspection system 1C according to the fourth embodiment includes a cartridge 2 to which identification information is assigned, and an inspection device 3C that acquires and inspects the identification information, and specifies measurement conditions in the inspection device 3C based on the identification information.

[0129] In the above configuration, since the measurement conditions can be specified according to the characteristics of the cartridge 2, more accurate measurement can be performed.

[0130] 〔Example of Realization by Software〕 The control blocks of the inspection systems 1, 1A, and 1C (particularly the information acquisition units 37 to 37C, the inspection control units 38 to 38A, the arithmetic unit 39, the code generation unit 40, the control unit 46, the inspection result reading unit 57, and the determination unit 63) may be realized by a logic circuit (hardware) formed on an integrated circuit (IC chip) or the like, or may be realized by software.

[0131] In the latter case, the inspection systems 1, 1A, and 1C may include a computer that executes instructions of a program, which is software for realizing each function. This computer may include, for example, one or more processors and a computer-readable recording medium storing the program. Then, in the computer, the object of the invention according to the present disclosure may be achieved by the processor reading and executing the program from the recording medium. As the processor, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) can be used. As the recording medium, in addition to a "non-transitory tangible medium" such as a ROM (Read Only Memory), a tape, a disk, a card, a semiconductor memory, a programmable logic circuit, etc. can be used. Further, a RAM (Random Access Memory) or the like for expanding the program may be further provided. Also, the program may be supplied to the computer via any transmission medium (such as a communication network or a broadcast wave) capable of transmitting the program. Note that one aspect of the present disclosure can also be realized in the form of a data signal embedded in a carrier wave, in which the program is embodied by electronic transmission.

[0132] As described above, the invention according to the present disclosure has been described based on the drawings and examples. However, the invention according to the present disclosure is not limited to each of the above-described embodiments. That is, the invention according to the present disclosure can be variously modified within the scope shown in the present disclosure, and embodiments obtained by appropriately combining the technical means disclosed in different embodiments are also included in the technical scope of the invention according to the present disclosure. In other words, it should be noted that those skilled in the art can easily make various modifications or corrections based on the present disclosure. Also, it should be noted that these modifications or corrections are included in the scope of the present disclosure.

[0133] For example, in the above embodiment, the cartridge 2 has the sensor 23, and the mode in which the cartridge 2 detects the inspection object has been described. However, the invention according to the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the sensor 23 may be provided in the inspection apparatus 3. That is, the detection of the inspection object may be performed only by the inspection apparatus 3. In this case, the cartridge 2 is used for authentication.

[0134] For example, the cartridge 2 may be used for authentication for the inspection apparatus 3 to start an inspection. That is, for example, when the identification information given to the cartridge 2 matches the identification information of the cartridge 2 that the inspection apparatus 3 has, the inspection apparatus 3 may start the inspection. Also, for example, when these identification information do not match, it may be displayed on the display unit 34 of the inspection apparatus 3 and / or the display unit 55 of the portable terminal 5 that the cartridge 2 is not suitable.

[0135] Also, for example, in addition to authentication for the inspection apparatus 3 to start an inspection, the cartridge 2 may be used to supply various liquids such as the specimen P and the reagents used for the inspection to the inspection apparatus 3. That is, for example, when the identification information given to the cartridge 2 matches the identification information of the cartridge 2 that the inspection apparatus 3 has, various liquids are supplied from the cartridge 2 to the inspection apparatus 3, and the inspection apparatus 3 may start the inspection.

[0136] (Different aspects of the present disclosure) (Item 1) A cartridge to which identification information is assigned, and an inspection device that acquires and inspects the identification information, and includes: An inspection system that determines the suitability of the cartridge based on the identification information and controls the operation of the inspection device according to the result of the determination.

[0137] (Item 2) The inspection system according to Item 1, wherein the operation of the inspection device is controlled so that the determination is made before the start of the inspection.

[0138] (Item 3) The cartridge includes a sensor that detects an inspection target included in a specimen. The inspection system according to Item 1 or 2, wherein the operation of the inspection device is controlled so that the determination is made before the specimen is supplied to the sensor.

[0139] (Item 4) The inspection system according to any one of Items 1 to 3, wherein the inspection device further includes a program for making the determination.

[0140] (Item 5) The inspection system further includes a management device that acquires the identification information from the inspection device via a communication network. The inspection system according to any one of Items 1 to 4, wherein the management device further includes a program for making the determination.

[0141] (Item 6) The inspection device includes a display unit that displays the result of the inspection or the result of the determination. The inspection system according to any one of Items 1 to 5, wherein the result of the inspection or the result of the determination is displayed on the display unit.

[0142] (Item 7) The inspection system further includes a display device including a display unit that displays the result of the inspection or the result of the determination. The inspection system according to any one of items 1 to 6, wherein the display unit provided in the display device displays the result of the inspection or the result of the determination.

[0143] (Item 8) The inspection system according to any one of items 1 to 7, further including a mobile terminal having a display unit for displaying the result of the inspection or the result of the determination.

[0144] (Item 9) The inspection system according to item 8, wherein the inspection device transmits the result of the determination to the mobile terminal.

[0145] (Item 10) The inspection system further includes a printing device that acquires the result of the inspection from the inspection device and prints a code indicating the result of the inspection on a medium, The mobile terminal further includes an imaging unit that reads the printed code, The inspection system according to item 8 or 9, wherein the mobile terminal displays the result of the inspection on the display unit provided in the mobile terminal based on the code read by the imaging unit.

[0146] (Item 11) The identification information includes product identification information of the cartridge, The inspection system according to any one of items 1 to 10, wherein the determination is a determination as to whether the cartridge is a proper product.

[0147] (Item 12) The inspection system further includes a secret key for decrypting the encrypted information, The identification information is encrypted, The inspection system according to any one of items 1 to 10, wherein in determining whether the cartridge is a proper product, it is determined whether the identification information can be decrypted by the secret key.

[0148] (Item 13) The identification information includes information regarding the type of the inspection, The inspection system according to any one of items 1 to 12, wherein the determination is a determination as to whether the cartridge matches the type of inspection of the inspection apparatus.

[0149] (Item 14) The identification information includes information regarding the expiration date of the cartridge, The inspection system according to any one of items 1 to 13, wherein the determination is a determination as to whether the expiration date of the cartridge has expired.

[0150] (Item 15) A cartridge used in the inspection system according to any one of items 1 to 14, Specific information for specifying the inspection apparatus corresponding to the cartridge is provided, The cartridge to which the specific information is provided so that the inspection is started when the cartridge is used in the inspection apparatus corresponding to the specific information of the cartridge.

[0151] (Item 16) An inspection method in an inspection system including an inspection apparatus that performs an inspection using a cartridge to which identification information is provided, A step of obtaining the identification information from the cartridge, A step of determining the suitability of the cartridge based on the identification information, An inspection method including a step of controlling the operation of the inspection apparatus according to the result of the determination.

[0152] (Item 17) The step of performing the determination is performed before starting the inspection in the step of controlling the operation of the inspection apparatus, and the inspection method according to item 16.

[0153] (Item 18) An inspection apparatus that performs an inspection using a cartridge to which identification information is provided, A connection part that connects to the cartridge, A reading part that reads the identification information, An inspection apparatus comprising: a control unit that controls an operation according to a result of determination regarding the suitability of the cartridge based on the identification information.

[0154] (Item 19) The determination is performed before the start of the inspection. The inspection apparatus according to Item 18.

[0155] (Item 20) Further comprising: a display unit that displays information. The inspection apparatus according to Item 18 or 19, which displays the result of the inspection on the display unit. The inspection apparatus according to Item 18 or 19, which displays the result of the inspection on the display unit.

[0156] (Item 21) A cartridge to which identification information is assigned. The inspection apparatus that acquires the identification information and performs an inspection. A inspection system that specifies measurement conditions in the inspection apparatus based on the identification information. Including: a cartridge to which identification information is assigned. The inspection apparatus that acquires the identification information and performs an inspection. A inspection system that specifies measurement conditions in the inspection apparatus based on the identification information. The inspection system according to Item 21, which specifies measurement conditions in the inspection apparatus based on the identification information.

[0157] (Item 22) The cartridge includes a measurement device. The inspection system according to Item 21, which analyzes an output value from the measurement device using the identification information. The inspection system according to Item 21, which analyzes an output value from the measurement device using the identification information.

[0158] (Item 23) The cartridge includes a measurement device. The identification information includes sensitivity information indicating the sensitivity of the measurement device. The inspection system according to Item 21 or 22, which corrects an output value from the measurement device using the sensitivity information. The inspection system according to Item 21 or 22, which corrects an output value from the measurement device using the sensitivity information.

[0159] (Item 24) The inspection system according to any one of Items 21 to 23, which determines the suitability of the cartridge based on the identification information and controls the operation of the inspection apparatus according to the result of the determination.

[0160] (Item 25) The identification information includes product identification information. The inspection device acquires the measurement conditions corresponding to the product identification information via a communication network, and is the inspection system according to any one of Items 21 to 24.

[0161] (Item 26) An inspection method in an inspection system including an inspection device that performs inspection using a cartridge to which identification information is attached, a step of acquiring the identification information from the cartridge; a step of specifying measurement conditions in the inspection device based on the identification information; and a step of controlling the operation of the inspection device according to the measurement conditions, the inspection method including these steps.

[0162] (Item 27) An inspection device that performs inspection using a cartridge to which identification information is attached, including a connection part that connects to the cartridge, a reading part that reads the identification information, and a control part that controls the operation according to measurement conditions specified based on the identification information.

Description of Signs

[0163] 1 Inspection system 2 Cartridge 3 Inspection device 4 Printing device 5 Portable terminal (mobile terminal) 6 Judgment server (management device) 23 Sensor (measurement device) 31 Control part 32 Connection part 34 Display part (display device) 54 Imaging part 55 Display part

Claims

1. A cartridge to which identification information is assigned, and an inspection device that acquires the identification information and inspects an inspection target included in a specimen taken into the cartridge, determines whether the cartridge is suitable based on the identification information, controls the operation of the inspection device according to the result of the determination, destroys the cartridge, or writes information indicating that the cartridge has been used, the cartridge has a measurement device that measures the inspection target and outputs a signal, the identification information includes parameter information regarding a plurality of parameters specified for each measurement device, An inspection system that calculates an inspection result by analyzing an output value from the measurement device using an arithmetic expression specified by the parameter information.

2. the cartridge has a chip, the identification information is assigned to the chip, destruction of the cartridge is executed by destroying the chip, writing of the information is executed by writing information indicating that it has been used to the chip, the inspection system according to claim 1.

3. Destruction of the cartridge or writing of the information is performed after determination of the suitability of the cartridge or after completion of the inspection, the inspection system according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The inspection system according to claim 1, wherein the operation of the inspection device is controlled so that the determination is made before the start of the inspection.

5. the cartridge includes a sensor that detects the inspection target, The inspection system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the operation of the inspection device is controlled so that the determination is made before supplying the specimen to the sensor.

6. The inspection system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the inspection device further includes a program for making the determination.

7. further includes a management device that acquires the identification information from the inspection device via a communication network, The management device further includes a program for making the determination, the inspection system according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. the inspection device includes a display unit that displays the inspection result or the result of the determination, The inspection system according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the inspection result or the result of the determination is displayed on the display unit.

9. Further including a display device including a display unit for displaying the inspection result or the determination result. The inspection system according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the inspection result or the determination result is displayed on the display unit included in the display device.

10. The inspection system according to any one of claims 1 to 9, further including a mobile terminal including a display unit for displaying the inspection result or the determination result.

11. The inspection system according to claim 10, wherein the inspection device transmits the determination result to the mobile terminal.

12. Further including a printing device that acquires the inspection result from the inspection device and prints a code indicating the inspection result on a medium. The mobile terminal further includes an imaging unit for reading the printed code. The inspection system according to claim 10 or 11, wherein the mobile terminal displays the inspection result on the display unit included in the mobile terminal based on the code read by the imaging unit.

13. The identification information includes product identification information of the cartridge. The inspection system according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the determination is a determination as to whether the cartridge is a proper product.

14. Further including a secret key for decrypting the encrypted information. The identification information is encrypted. The inspection system according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein in determining whether the cartridge is a proper product, it is determined whether the identification information can be decrypted by the secret key.

15. The identification information includes information regarding the type of inspection. The inspection system according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the determination is a determination as to whether the cartridge matches the type of inspection of the inspection device.

16. The identification information includes information regarding the expiration date of the cartridge. The inspection system according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the determination is a determination as to whether the expiration date of the cartridge has expired.

17. A cartridge used in the inspection system according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein specific information for identifying the inspection device corresponding to the cartridge is provided, and the specific information is provided so that the inspection is started when the cartridge is used in the inspection device corresponding to the specific information of the cartridge.

18. A testing method in a testing system including a testing device that performs a test on a test target included in a specimen taken into the cartridge using a cartridge provided with identification information, wherein the cartridge has a measuring device that measures the test target and outputs a signal, the identification information includes parameter information regarding a plurality of parameters specified for each of the measuring devices, the testing method includes: a step of acquiring the identification information from the cartridge; a step of determining the suitability of the cartridge based on the identification information; a step of controlling the operation of the testing device according to the result of the determination, and performing destruction of the cartridge or writing information indicating that the cartridge has been used; a step of calculating a test result by analyzing an output value from the measuring device using an arithmetic expression specified by the parameter information.

19. The testing method according to claim 18, wherein the step of making the determination is performed before starting the test in the step of controlling the operation of the testing device.

20. A testing device that performs a test on a test target included in a specimen taken into the cartridge using a cartridge provided with identification information, comprising a connection part connected to the cartridge, a reading part that reads the identification information, and a control part that controls its operation according to the result of determination regarding the suitability of the cartridge based on the identification information, and performs destruction of the cartridge or writing information indicating that the cartridge has been used, wherein the cartridge has a measuring device that measures the test target and outputs a signal, the identification information includes parameter information regarding a plurality of parameters specified for each of the measuring devices, and the testing device includes an arithmetic unit that calculates a test result by analyzing an output value from the measuring device using an arithmetic expression specified by the parameter information.

21. The testing device according to claim 20, wherein the determination is made before starting the test.

22. further comprising a display part that displays information, and the testing device according to claim 20 or 21, wherein the test result is displayed on the display part.

23. a cartridge provided with identification information, and a testing device that acquires the identification information and performs a test on a test target included in a specimen taken into the cartridge. The inspection system according to claim 1, wherein measurement conditions in the inspection apparatus are specified based on the identification information.

24. The cartridge includes a measurement device that measures the inspection target and outputs a signal. The identification information includes sensitivity information indicating the sensitivity of the measurement device. The inspection system according to claim 23, wherein an output value from the measurement device is corrected using the sensitivity information to calculate an inspection result.

25. The identification information includes product identification information. The inspection system according to claim 23 or 24, wherein the inspection apparatus acquires the measurement conditions corresponding to the product identification information via a communication network.

26. An inspection method in an inspection system including an inspection apparatus that performs an inspection using a cartridge to which identification information is assigned, the method comprising: acquiring the identification information from the cartridge; specifying measurement conditions in the inspection apparatus based on the identification information; and controlling the operation of the inspection apparatus according to the measurement conditions, the inspection method according to claim 18.

27. An inspection apparatus that performs an inspection using a cartridge to which identification information is assigned, the apparatus comprising: a connection part that connects to the cartridge; a reading part that reads the identification information; and a control part that controls an operation according to measurement conditions specified based on the identification information, the inspection apparatus according to claim 20.

28. The inspection system according to claim 1, wherein the inspection apparatus has a storage part that stores the arithmetic expression.

29. The measurement device is a sensor that uses elastic waves. The arithmetic expression is specified using the following formula (1) and the parameter information. 【Number 1】 In the above formula, x is a phase difference signal obtained from a difference between an absolute phase of an electrical signal input to the measurement device and an absolute phase of an electrical signal output from the measurement device, y is the concentration of the inspection target, and a to e are the plurality of parameters, the inspection system according to claim 1.

Images