Container, automatic analyzer, and automatic analysis system

Abstract

To reduce the possibility that an operator is exposed to a sample and a reagent which are contained in a liquid remaining in a reaction container.SOLUTION: A container 110 is used for measuring a measurement object 120 by an automated analytical device and includes an opening part 111, a main body part 113, and a deformed part 115. The main body part 113 is configured so as to be able to store the measurement object 120. The deformed part 115 is deformed so as to be able to close the opening part 111.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The embodiments disclosed in this specification and drawings relate to a container, an automated analyzer, and an automated analysis system. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, automated analyzers that perform qualitative and quantitative analysis of specimen samples such as blood and urine are known. In an automated analyzer, the specimen is mixed with reagents used for each test item in a reaction vessel (cuvette) to cause a reaction, and the physical properties of this mixture are measured, for example, optically. When a disposable reaction vessel is used, after the measurement is completed, the reaction vessel containing the mixture is placed in a collection unit provided in the automated analyzer. The reaction vessels accumulated in the collection unit are removed from the instrument by an operator and discarded.

[0003] Samples may contain infectious substances such as bacteria and viruses, and reagents may contain chemicals that are harmful to the human body. Therefore, it is important to ensure that workers working with automated analyzers are not exposed to samples or reagents.

[0004] In conventional automated analyzers, there is a possibility that liquid remaining in the reaction vessels may scatter in the collection unit. Furthermore, when disposing of reaction vessels accumulated in the collection unit, there is a possibility that the liquid remaining in the reaction vessels may scatter to the surrounding area. In this case, there is a risk that operators may be exposed to specimens, reagents, etc. contained in the liquid remaining in the reaction vessels during analysis using the automated analyzer, disposal of reaction vessels accumulated in the collection unit, maintenance of the automated analyzer, etc. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Special Publication No. 2011-522240 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] One of the problems to be solved by the embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings is to reduce the possibility that an operator will be exposed to specimens, reagents, etc. contained in the liquid remaining in the reaction vessel. However, the problems to be solved by the embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings are not limited to the above problem. Problems corresponding to the effects of the configurations shown in the embodiments described below can also be positioned as other problems. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The container according to the embodiment is a container used for measuring a substance to be measured by an automatic analyzer, and has an opening, a main body, and a deformable portion. The main body is configured to be able to contain the substance to be measured. The deformable portion is configured to be able to close the opening by deforming. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of an example of an automatic analysis system including an automatic analysis device according to this embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an analysis mechanism of an automatic analyzer. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a top view of the measurement unit of the analysis mechanism. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a side view of the measuring unit. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a top view of another example of the measuring unit. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a container of the automatic analysis system. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining an example of a method for measuring a measurement target substance contained in a container. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the deformation portion of the container. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing another example of the configuration of the deformation portion of the container. [Figure 10]FIG. 10 is a top view of the container of FIG. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a deformation mode of the deformation portion. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a diagram showing another example of the deformation mode of the deformation portion. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing still another example of the deformation mode of the deformation portion. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the recovery mechanism and deformation mechanism of the automatic analyzer. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing another example of the configuration of the recovery mechanism and the deformation mechanism. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawings attached to this specification, the scale and aspect ratios of the actual objects have been appropriately changed and exaggerated for the sake of ease of illustration and understanding.

[0010] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of an automatic analysis system 100 according to this embodiment. The automatic analysis system 100 includes an automatic analyzer 1 and a container 110. In this embodiment, the automatic analyzer 1 is, for example, a blood coagulation analyzer. As shown in FIG. 1, the automatic analyzer 1 according to this embodiment is configured to include an analysis mechanism 2, an analysis circuit 3, a drive mechanism 4, a collection mechanism 5, a deformation mechanism 6, an input interface 7, an output interface 8, a communication interface 9, a memory circuit 10, and a control circuit 11.

[0011] The analysis mechanism 2 generates a mixture by mixing a blood sample, which is a specimen from a subject, with a coagulation reagent, which is a reagent used for each test item. Depending on the test item, the analysis mechanism 2 also mixes a standard solution diluted at a predetermined ratio with the reagent used for that test item. The analysis mechanism 2 continuously measures the optical properties of the mixture of the blood sample and the reagent, or the mixture of the standard solution and the reagent. This measurement generates standard data, represented by, for example, transmitted light intensity, absorbance, scattered light intensity, etc., and test data.

[0012] The analysis circuit 3 is a processor that generates calibration data and analysis data related to the coagulation of blood samples by analyzing the standard data and test data generated by the analysis mechanism 2. The analysis circuit 3, for example, reads an analysis program from the storage circuit 10 and analyzes the standard data and test data in accordance with the read analysis program. The analysis circuit 3 may also include a storage area for storing at least a portion of the data stored in the storage circuit 10.

[0013] The drive mechanism 4 drives the analysis mechanism 2 under the control of the control circuit 11. The drive mechanism 4 is realized by, for example, a gear, a stepping motor, a belt conveyor, a lead screw, and the like.

[0014] After the measurement is completed, the recovery mechanism 5 recovers and stores the containers 110 from the reaction disk 201. The recovery mechanism 5 includes a recovery arm 51 and a recovery unit 53 (see FIGS. 14 and 15). The operation of the recovery mechanism 5 will be described later.

[0015] When collecting the container 110 after the measurement is completed, the deformation mechanism 6 deforms the deformation portion 115 of the container 110 removed from the reaction disk 201. In particular, the deformation mechanism 6 closes the opening 111 of the container 110 by deforming the deformation portion 115 of the container 110. The deformation mechanism 6 and the container 110 will be described in detail later.

[0016] The input interface 7 receives, for example, settings such as analytical parameters for each test item related to a blood sample requested for measurement by an operator or via the hospital network NW. The input interface 7 is realized, for example, by a mouse, a keyboard, and a touchpad where instructions are input by touching the operation surface. The input interface 7 is connected to the control circuit 11, converts operation instructions input by the operator into electrical signals, and outputs the electrical signals to the control circuit 11. Note that in this specification, the input interface 7 is not limited to those having physical operation components such as a mouse and a keyboard. For example, an electrical signal processing circuit that receives electrical signals corresponding to operation instructions input from an external input device provided separately from the automatic analyzer 1 and outputs the electrical signals to the control circuit 11 is also included as an example of the input interface 7.

[0017] The output interface 8 is connected to the control circuit 11 and outputs a signal supplied from the control circuit 11. The output interface 8 is realized by, for example, a display circuit, a printed circuit, an audio device, etc. Display circuits include, for example, CRT displays, liquid crystal displays, organic EL displays, LED displays, and plasma displays. Note that the display circuit also includes a processing circuit that converts data representing a display object into a video signal and outputs the video signal to the outside. Printed circuits include, for example, a printer, etc. Note that the printed circuit also includes an output circuit that outputs data representing a print object to the outside. Audio devices include, for example, a speaker, etc. Note that the audio device also includes an output circuit that outputs an audio signal to the outside.

[0018] The communication interface 9 is connected to, for example, an intra-hospital network NW. The communication interface 9 performs data communication with an HIS (Hospital Information System) via the intra-hospital network NW. Note that the communication interface 9 may also perform data communication with an HIS via a laboratory information system (LIS) connected to the intra-hospital network NW.

[0019] The storage circuit 10 includes a processor-readable storage medium such as a magnetic or optical storage medium, or a semiconductor memory. The storage circuit 10 does not necessarily have to be realized by a single storage device. For example, the storage circuit 10 may be realized by multiple storage devices.

[0020] The memory circuitry 10 stores an analysis program executed by the analysis circuitry 3 and a control program for realizing the functions of the control circuitry 11. The memory circuitry 10 stores the calibration data generated by the analysis circuitry 3 for each test item. The memory circuitry 10 stores the analysis data generated by the analysis circuitry 3 for each blood sample. The memory circuitry 10 stores test orders input by an operator or test orders received by the communication interface 9 via the hospital network NW.

[0021] The control circuit 11 is a processor that functions as the core of the automatic analyzer 1. The control circuit 11 executes a program stored in the memory circuit 10 to realize a function corresponding to the executed program. The control circuit 11 may also include a memory area for storing at least a portion of the data stored in the memory circuit 10.

[0022] Fig. 2 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a part of the configuration of the analysis mechanism 2 shown in Fig. 1. As shown in Fig. 2, the analysis mechanism 2 according to this embodiment is configured to include a reaction disk 201, a constant temperature unit 202, a rack sampler 203, and a reagent storage 204.

[0023] The reaction disk 201 holds a plurality of containers 110 arranged in a ring. The containers 110 are also called reaction containers or cuvettes. The reaction disk 201 transports the containers 110 along a predetermined path. Specifically, during the sample analysis operation, the reaction disk 201 is alternately rotated and stopped at predetermined time intervals by the drive mechanism 4. The containers 110 are formed from, for example, polypropylene (PP) or acrylic.

[0024] The thermostatic unit 202 stores a heat medium set at a predetermined temperature, and raises the temperature of the mixed liquid contained in the container 110 by immersing the container 110 in the stored heat medium.

[0025] The rack sampler 203 movably supports a sample rack 2031 capable of holding a plurality of sample containers, and these sample containers contain blood samples, which are samples requested to be measured. In the example shown in Figure 2, the sample rack 2031 is capable of holding five sample containers in parallel.

[0026] The rack sampler 203 is provided with a transport area 2032 for transporting the sample rack 2031. That is, using this transport area 2032, the sample rack 2031 is transported from an input position where the sample rack 2031 is input to a recovery position where the sample rack 2031 is recovered after measurement has been completed. In the transport area 2032, a plurality of sample racks 2031 aligned in the longitudinal direction are moved in direction D1 by the drive mechanism 4.

[0027] The rack sampler 203 is also provided with a retraction region 2033 that retracts the sample rack 2031 from the transport region 2032 in order to move the sample container held in the sample rack 2031 to a predetermined sample aspiration position. The sample aspiration position is provided, for example, at a position where the rotational path of the sample dispensing probe 207 intersects with the movement path of the opening of the sample container supported by the rack sampler 203 and held in the sample rack 2031. In the retraction region 2033, the transported sample rack 2031 is moved in direction D2 by the drive mechanism 4.

[0028] The rack sampler 203 is also provided with a return area 2034 for returning the sample rack 2031, which holds the sample container into which the sample has been aspirated, to the transport area. In the return area 2034, the sample rack 2031 is moved in direction D3 by the drive mechanism 4.

[0029] The reagent storage 204 keeps a plurality of reagent containers 200, which contain standard solutions and reagents used in various test items performed on blood samples, refrigerated. A turntable is rotatably provided within the reagent storage 204. The turntable holds a plurality of reagent containers 200 arranged in a circular ring shape. In this embodiment, the reagent storage 204 is covered with a removable reagent cover, although this is not shown in FIG. 2 .

[0030] Furthermore, the analyzing mechanism 2 according to this embodiment shown in FIG. 2 includes a sample dispensing arm 206, a sample dispensing probe 207, a reagent dispensing arm 208, and a reagent dispensing probe 209.

[0031] The sample dispensing arm 206 is provided between the reaction disk 201 and the rack sampler 203. The sample dispensing arm 206 is provided so as to be movable up and down in the vertical direction and rotatable in the horizontal direction by a drive mechanism 4. The sample dispensing arm 206 holds a sample dispensing probe 207 at one end.

[0032] The sample dispensing probe 207 rotates along an arc-shaped rotational path in accordance with the rotation of the sample dispensing arm 206. A sample suction position for aspirating a sample from a sample container held in a sample rack 2031 on the rack sampler 203 is provided on this rotational path. In addition, a sample dispensing position for dispensing the sample aspirated by the sample dispensing probe 207 into a container 110 is provided on the rotational path of the sample dispensing probe 207. The sample dispensing position corresponds to, for example, the intersection of the rotational path of the sample dispensing probe 207 and the movement path of the container 110 held on the reaction disk 201.

[0033] The sample dispensing probe 207 is driven by the drive mechanism 4 and moves up and down at the sample suction position or the sample dispensing position. The sample dispensing probe 207 also aspirates a sample from a sample container located directly below the sample suction position under the control of the control circuit 11. The sample dispensing probe 207 also dispenses the aspirated sample into a container 110 located directly below the sample dispensing position under the control of the control circuit 11. The sample dispensing arm 206 and the sample dispensing probe 207 together constitute an example of a dispensing mechanism in this embodiment.

[0034] The reagent dispensing arm 208 is provided between the reaction disk 201 and the reagent storage 204. The reagent dispensing arm 208 is provided so as to be movable up and down in the vertical direction and rotatable in the horizontal direction by a drive mechanism 4. The reagent dispensing arm 208 holds a reagent dispensing probe 209 at one end.

[0035] The reagent dispensing probe 209 rotates along an arc-shaped rotational path in accordance with the rotation of the reagent dispensing arm 208. A reagent aspirating position is provided on this rotational path. The reagent aspirating position is provided, for example, at a position where the rotational path of the reagent dispensing probe 209 intersects with the movement path of the opening of the reagent container 200, which is placed in an annular shape on the turntable of the reagent storage 204. In addition, a reagent dispensing position is set on the rotational path of the reagent dispensing probe 209 for dispensing the reagent aspirated by the reagent dispensing probe 209 into the container 110. The reagent dispensing position corresponds to, for example, the intersection of the rotational path of the reagent dispensing probe 209 and the movement path of the container 110 held on the reaction disk 201.

[0036] The reagent dispensing probe 209 is driven by the drive mechanism 4 and moves up and down at a reagent aspirating position or a reagent dispensing position on the rotation orbit. The reagent dispensing probe 209 also aspirates reagent from the reagent container 200 stopped at the reagent aspirating position under the control of the control circuit 11. The reagent dispensing probe 209 also dispenses the aspirated reagent into a container 110 located directly below the reagent dispensing position under the control of the control circuit 11. The reagent dispensing arm 208 and the reagent dispensing probe 209 constitute another example of a dispensing mechanism in this embodiment.

[0037] Furthermore, the analysis mechanism 2 according to this embodiment is provided therein with photometric units 211, the number of which is equal to the number of containers 110 that can be held on the reaction disk 201. These photometric units 211 constitute the measurement section in this embodiment. Therefore, in this specification, the photometric unit 211 is also referred to as the measurement section 211. FIGS. 3 and 4 are schematic diagrams showing an example of the configuration of this photometric unit 211. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the positional relationship of each component when the photometric unit 211 is viewed from above the reaction disk 201. FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the positional relationship of each component when the photometric unit 211 is viewed from the cross-sectional direction of the reaction disk 201.

[0038] The photometric unit 211 continuously measures the optical property values ​​of the mixture (substance to be measured) of the sample and reagent dispensed into the container 110. The analysis mechanism 2 according to this embodiment is provided with a plurality of photometric units 211. For example, the analysis mechanism 2 is provided with the same number of photometric units 211 as the number of reaction containers that can be held on the reaction disk 201. That is, one photometric unit 211 is provided for one reaction container held on the reaction disk 201. Since the configurations of the respective photometric units 211 are similar, one photometric unit 211 is shown as a representative in FIGS. 3 and 4.

[0039] 3 and 4 includes, for example, a light source 2111 and photodetectors 2112 and 2113. For example, the photometry unit 211 includes the light source 2111 on the annular center side of the containers 110 held in an annular shape by the reaction disk 201. The light source 2111 is provided so as to irradiate light toward the outside of the ring in which the containers 110 are arranged.

[0040] The light source 2111 is an example of a light irradiation unit that generates light of two wavelengths. The light source 2111 generates, for example, a first light having a long wavelength and a second light having a short wavelength. For example, the wavelength of the first light is within the red wavelength range of 620 to 750 nm, and the wavelength of the second light is within the violet to blue wavelength range of 380 to 495 nm. The wavelengths of the first and second lights may each be within the red wavelength range of 620 to 750 nm. The light source 2111 is realized by, for example, a multi-wavelength LED that can generate light of multiple wavelengths, two LEDs that each generate light of a predetermined wavelength, and a light source unit that transmits light of a desired wavelength from light of a wide wavelength range using a filter.

[0041] The light source 2111 emits first and second light beams under the control of the control circuit 11. Specifically, for example, the light source 2111 alternately emits the first and second light beams at a predetermined cycle. At this time, the light source 2111 alternately emits the first and second light beams at a cycle of, for example, 0.05 seconds, which is half of 0.1 seconds, which is the smallest measurement unit of coagulation. The light emitted from the light source 2111 is incident on the container 110.

[0042] The light source 2111 may be configured to emit light of one wavelength designated by the control circuit 11. The light source 2111 may also be configured to emit the first and second lights simultaneously. In this case, however, it is necessary to provide the photodetectors 2112 and 2113 with filters for filtering out light of unnecessary wavelengths.

[0043] The photodetector 2112 is disposed at a position facing the light source 2111 across the container 110. Light emitted from the light source 2111 enters the container 110 from a first side wall and exits from a second side wall opposite the first side wall. The photodetector 2112 detects the light emitted from the container 110. The photodetector 2112 is, for example, an example of a transmitted light receiving unit.

[0044] Specifically, for example, the photodetector 2112 detects light transmitted through a mixture of a standard solution and a reagent in the container 110. The photodetector 2112 samples the detected light at predetermined time intervals, for example, at 0.1 second intervals, and generates standard data represented by transmitted light intensity, absorbance, or the like. The predetermined time intervals are synchronized, for example, with the frequency of generation of the first light. Note that the photodetector 2112 may detect only light of a wavelength corresponding to the wavelength of the first light, for example. The photodetector 2112 also detects light transmitted through a mixture of a blood sample and a reagent in the container 110. The photodetector 2112 samples the detected light at predetermined time intervals and generates test data represented by transmitted light intensity, absorbance, or the like. The photodetector 2112 outputs the generated standard data and test data to the analysis circuit 3.

[0045] The photodetector 2113 is disposed so that the irradiation axis of light from the light source 2111 and the light receiving axis of the photodetector 2113 intersect at approximately 90 degrees within the container 110. The light emitted from the light source 2111 is incident on a first side wall of the container 110, is scattered by particles in the mixed liquid, and then is emitted from a third side wall adjacent to the first side wall and separated by 90 degrees. The photodetector 2113 detects the light emitted from the container 110. The photodetector 2113 is, for example, an example of a scattered light receiving unit.

[0046] Specifically, for example, the photodetector 2113 detects light scattered by the mixture of the standard solution and the reagent in the container 110. The photodetector 2113 samples the detected light at a predetermined time interval, for example, at 0.1 second intervals, and generates standard data represented by the scattered light intensity or the like. The predetermined time interval is synchronized, for example, with the frequency of generation of the second light. Note that the photodetector 2113 may be configured to detect only light of a wavelength corresponding to the wavelength of the second light, for example. The photodetector 2113 also detects light scattered by the mixture of the blood sample and the reagent in the container 110. The photodetector 2113 samples the detected light at a predetermined time interval, and generates test data represented by the scattered light intensity or the like. The photodetector 2113 outputs the generated standard data and test data to the analysis circuit 3.

[0047] The photodetectors 2112 and 2113 may output the detected light intensity as a detection signal to the analysis circuit 3. At this time, the analysis circuit 3 samples the detection signal at predetermined time intervals, for example, at 0.1 second intervals, and generates standard data and test data.

[0048] Fig. 5 is a schematic diagram showing another example of the configuration of the photometric unit 211 according to this embodiment. Similar to Fig. 3, Fig. 5 shows an example of the positional relationship of the components of the photometric unit 211 when viewed from above the reaction disk 201. The photometric unit 211 shown in Fig. 5 has two LEDs 51 and 52 as a light source 2111. In the example shown in Fig. 5, the light irradiation axis of the LED 52 is inclined at a predetermined angle with respect to the light irradiation axis of the LED 51.

[0049] 3 and 4, the photodetector 2112 is disposed at a position facing the LED 51 across the container 110. On the other hand, the photodetector 2113 is disposed in the container 110 so that the irradiation axis of the light from the LED 52 and the light receiving axis of the photodetector 2113 intersect at approximately 90 degrees.

[0050] As shown in FIG. 1 again, the analysis circuit 3 executes an analysis program stored in the storage circuit 10 to realize functions corresponding to the program. For example, the analysis circuit 3 has an analysis function 31 and a composite analysis function 32 by executing the analysis program. That is, in this embodiment, the analysis circuit 3 constitutes an analysis processing unit that obtains an analysis result of components contained in a sample based on the measurement result by the photometric unit 211. Note that, although this embodiment describes a case where the analysis function 31 and the composite analysis function 32 are realized by a single processor, this is not limiting. For example, the analysis circuit may be configured by combining multiple independent processors, and the analysis function 31 and the composite analysis function 32 may be realized by each processor executing an analysis program.

[0051] The analysis function 31 is a function that analyzes the standard data and test data generated by the analysis mechanism 2, and is an example of an analysis unit. Specifically, for example, in the analysis function 31, the analysis circuit 3 calculates the clotting time based on the standard data and generates calibration data from the calculated clotting time. The analysis circuit 3 outputs the generated calibration data to the control circuit 11.

[0052] In addition, in the analysis function 31, the analysis circuit 3 measures the coagulation process in the mixed solution, for example, by analyzing test data. Specifically, for example, when analyzing a mixed solution to which a highly reactive reagent has been added, the analysis circuit 3 analyzes test data obtained by detecting transmitted light. The analysis circuit 3 acquires changes in received light intensity regarding the blood coagulation reaction based on the test data. Note that the following description will be given assuming that the changes in received light intensity are a reaction curve. The analysis circuit 3 detects inflection points and saturation points, etc. in the reaction curve as the coagulation end point. The detection of these inflection points and saturation points, etc., is performed using a mathematical algorithm, for example, the first derivative, second derivative, or other calculation method of the reaction curve. Based on the detected coagulation end point, the analysis circuit 3 calculates the coagulation point and the coagulation time, which is the time it takes to reach the coagulation point. Note that for abnormal samples in which coagulation does not progress after the addition of a highly reactive reagent, the analysis circuit 3 may analyze test data obtained by detecting scattered light.

[0053] Furthermore, for example, when analyzing a mixed solution containing a reagent that reacts weakly and slowly, the analysis circuit 3 analyzes test data obtained by detecting scattered light. Note that in this embodiment, a reagent that reacts weakly and slowly is sometimes referred to as a "weakly reacting reagent," but these terms are treated as synonymous. The analysis circuit 3 obtains a reaction curve based on the test data, and calculates information related to the coagulation of the blood sample, such as the coagulation end point, coagulation point, and coagulation time, from the obtained reaction curve.

[0054] Furthermore, depending on the test item, the analysis circuit 3 calculates concentration values ​​etc. based on the calculated coagulation time and the calibration data for the test item corresponding to the test data. The analysis circuit 3 outputs analysis data including the coagulation end point, coagulation point, coagulation time, concentration values ​​etc. to the control circuit 11.

[0055] The composite analysis function 32 is a function for combining and analyzing two types of test data generated by the analysis mechanism 2, and is an example of a composite analysis unit. Specifically, in the composite analysis function 32, the analysis circuit 3 acquires test data obtained by detecting transmitted light and test data obtained by detecting scattered light. The analysis circuit 3 calculates information related to coagulation of the blood sample, such as the coagulation endpoint, coagulation point, and coagulation time, from a reaction curve based on the test data for transmitted light and a reaction curve based on the test data for scattered light.

[0056] The composite analysis function 32 is performed, for example, under control of the control circuit 11 and in accordance with the analysis results of the analysis function 31. For example, the analysis circuit 3 performs the composite analysis function 32 in response to instructions from the control circuit 11. Furthermore, the analysis circuit 3 performs the composite analysis function 32, for example, in the case where a weakly reactive reagent is added in the analysis function 31 and the reaction is slower than expected.

[0057] The analysis circuit 3 outputs analysis data including the coagulation end point, coagulation point, coagulation time, etc. to the control circuit 11.

[0058] 1 executes a control program stored in the memory circuit 10 to realize functions corresponding to the program. For example, by executing the control program, the control circuit 11 has a system control function 91, a photometry control function 92, a recovery control function 93, and a transformation control function 94. Note that, although the present embodiment describes a case in which the system control function 91, photometry control function 92, recovery control function 93, and transformation control function 94 are realized by a single processor, this is not limiting. For example, the control circuit may be configured by combining multiple independent processors, and these various functions may be realized by each processor executing a control program.

[0059] The system control function 91 is a function that controls all parts of the automatic analyzer 1 based on input information input from the input interface 7. For example, in the system control function 91, the control circuit 11 controls the analysis circuit 3 to perform an analysis according to the test item.

[0060] The photometry control function 92 is a function for controlling the wavelength of light used in measurement, and is an example of a photometry control unit. Specifically, in the photometry control function 92, the control circuit 11, for example, references the test order stored in the memory circuit 10 and acquires reagent information to be used for the test item to be measured next. The control circuit 11 determines whether the reaction of the reagent to be used next is weak based on, for example, the test item name, reagent name, information regarding the reaction, information regarding the retest, etc. contained in the acquired reagent information.

[0061] The recovery control function 93 is a function that controls the recovery mechanism 5. For example, in the recovery control function 93, the control circuit 11 controls the recovery arm 51 to remove the container 110 for which measurement by the photometric unit 211 has been completed from the reaction disk and to transfer the removed container 110 to the accumulation section.

[0062] The deformation control function 94 is a function for deforming the deformation portion 115 of the container 110. For example, in the deformation control function 94, the control circuit 11 controls the deformation mechanism 6 so as to deform the deformation portion 115 of the container 110 taken out from the reaction disk 201.

[0063] Next, the container 110 of this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 6 to Fig. 10. Fig. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the container 110, and Fig. 7 is a diagram for explaining an example of a method for measuring the measurement target substance 120 contained in the container 110.

[0064] The container 110 in this embodiment is a container that contains a measurement target substance 120. The measurement target substance 120 is a substance that is to be measured in the measurement section (photometric unit) 211 of the automatic analyzer 1. The measurement target substance 120 may be, for example, a mixture of a specimen and a reagent. When the automatic analyzer 1 is a blood coagulation analyzer, the measurement target substance 120 may be, for example, a mixture of a blood specimen and a coagulation reagent.

[0065] Container 110 includes opening 111, main body 113, and deformation portion 115. Opening 111 is an opening for introducing target substance 120 into container 110. The specimen, standard solution, reagent, etc. contained in container 110 are dispensed through opening 111. Main body 113 is a portion that holds target substance 120. The specimen, standard solution, reagent, etc. dispensed through opening 111 are held in main body 113 and mixed as necessary. The mixed specimen, standard solution, reagent, etc. may also react with each other within main body 113.

[0066] The deforming portion 115 is a portion configured to be able to close the opening 111 by deforming. In this specification, "closing" the opening 111 means reducing the opening area of ​​the opening 111 and is not limited to completely blocking the opening 111 (i.e., reducing the opening area to zero). Even if the opening 111 is not completely blocked when the deforming portion 115 is deformed, the opening area of ​​the opening 111 is reduced, thereby preventing the target substance 120 from leaking from the container 110 when the container 110 containing the target substance 120 is transported from the reaction disk 201 to the collection unit 53 or while the container 110 is being accumulated in the collection unit 53. In particular, when the target substance 120 has solidified in the container 110, reducing the opening area of ​​the opening 111 can more effectively prevent the target substance 120 from leaking from the container 110. The opening area of ​​opening 111 after deformation of deforming portion 115 is preferably 50% or less of the opening area of ​​opening 111 before deformation of deforming portion 115, more preferably 30% or less, and even more preferably 10% or less.

[0067] The container 110 is usually used with the opening 111 positioned at the top so that the measurement target substance 120 does not spill out. In this specification, the side of the container 110 where the opening 111 is located is referred to as the top, and the side where the main body part 113 is located relative to the opening 111 is referred to as the bottom. The direction connecting the opening 111 and the main body part 113 is referred to as the first direction d1. When held on the reaction disk 201, the first direction d1 roughly coincides with the vertical direction. A second direction d2 and a third direction d3 are defined as directions perpendicular to the first direction d1. The first direction d1, the second direction d2, and the third direction d3 are perpendicular to each other.

[0068] In the example shown in FIG. 6, the deformation portion 115 is located above the main body portion 113. In other words, the main body portion 113 is located below the deformation portion 115. The deformation portion 115 is located between the opening 111 and the main body portion 113. Note that in FIGS. 6 to 9, the boundary between the main body portion 113 and the deformation portion 115 is indicated by a dashed line. However, the boundary between the main body portion 113 and the deformation portion 115 may not actually be visible as a line. In this case, for example, the region where grooves 117 and 119 (described below) are arranged or the region made of a thermoresponsive material constitutes the deformation portion 115.

[0069] In the example shown in FIGS. 6 to 10 , the container 110 has a rectangular shape in a cross section perpendicular to the first direction d1, but the specific shape of the container 110 is not limited thereto. For example, the container 110 may have other shapes, such as a polygon (e.g., a triangle, a pentagon, or a hexagon), a circle, or an ellipse, in a cross section perpendicular to the first direction d1. Furthermore, the container 110 may have a shape that combines straight lines and curves in a cross section perpendicular to the first direction d1. Furthermore, the shape of the cross section perpendicular to the first direction d1 may change depending on the position in the first direction d1. For example, the container 110 may have a rectangular cross-sectional shape at the opening 111 and the deforming portion 115, and a circular cross-sectional shape at the main body portion 113.

[0070] As shown in FIG. 7, in the measurement unit 211 of the automatic analyzer 1, light emitted from the light source 2111 is incident on the main body 113 of the container 110. The photodetectors 2112 and 2113 detect the light emitted from the main body 113. Therefore, the measurement unit 211 performs measurement in the main body 113, which is located below the deformation unit 115. Note that in FIG. 7, the container 110 is arranged in the measurement unit 211 so that the direction in which the light emitted from the light source 2111 travels coincides with the third direction d3, but the orientation of the container 110 is not limited thereto. For example, the container 110 may be arranged in the measurement unit 211 so that the direction in which the light emitted from the light source 2111 travels coincides with the second direction d2. In addition, in the measurement unit 211, the container 110 may be arranged in a rotated state around the first direction d1 so that the second direction d2 and the third direction d3 have any angle in the horizontal plane with respect to the direction in which the light emitted from the light source 2111 travels.

[0071] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the deformation portion 115 of the container 110, FIG. 9 is a diagram showing another example of the configuration of the deformation portion 115, and FIG. 10 is a top view of the container 110 of FIG.

[0072] In the example shown in FIG. 8 , the deforming portion 115 includes at least one spiral groove 117. The groove 117 is formed in a wall portion that constitutes the side surface of the container 110 at the deforming portion 115. The deforming portion 115 may include only one continuous groove 117, or may include multiple grooves 117. In the example shown, the groove 117 is formed on the outer surface of the container 110, but the groove 117 may also be formed on the inner surface of the container 110. The portion of the wall of the deforming portion 115 where the groove 117 is formed has a reduced thickness. This makes the portion of the wall of the deforming portion 115 where the groove 117 is formed weaker than the other portions. Therefore, when an external force acts on the deforming portion 115, the deforming portion 115 deforms starting from the portion where the groove 117 is formed. In the container 110 shown in Figure 8, the deformation mechanism 6 of the automatic analyzer 1 twists the deformation portion 115 or the opening 111 relative to the main body portion 113 around an axis extending in the first direction d1, thereby closing the opening 111.

[0073] 9 and 10, the deformation portion 115 includes at least one groove 119 extending in the first direction d1. In particular, the groove 119 extends parallel to the first direction d1. The groove 119 is formed in a wall portion that constitutes the side surface of the container 110 in the deformation portion 115. The deformation portion 115 may include only one groove 119, or may include multiple grooves 119. Note that, although the groove 119 is formed on the outer surface of the container 110 in the illustrated example, the groove 119 may also be formed on the inner surface of the container 110.

[0074] In the example shown in FIGS. 9 and 10 , the deformable portion 115 has a rectangular shape in a cross section perpendicular to the first direction d1, and grooves 119 are formed in each of the two wall portions facing in the third direction d3. In this example, grooves 119 are not formed in the two wall portions facing in the second direction d2. As in the example described with reference to FIG. 8 , the portions of the wall portions of the deformable portion 115 where the grooves 119 are formed have lower strength than the other portions. As a result, the strength of the two wall portions facing in the third direction d3 is lower than the strength of the two wall portions facing in the second direction d2. When an external force acts on the deformable portion 115, the deformable portion 115 deforms starting from the portions where the grooves 119 are formed. In the container 110 shown in FIG. 9 , the deformable portion 115 is crushed in the second direction d2 by the deformation mechanism 6 of the automated analyzer 1, thereby closing the opening 111.

[0075] 11 and 12, an example of a method for closing the opening 111 of the container 110 shown in Fig. 9 and Fig. 10 will be described. Fig. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a deformation mode of the deformation portion 115, and Fig. 12 is a diagram showing another example of a deformation mode of the deformation portion 115. In Fig. 11 and Fig. 12, the container 110 is shown as viewed from above.

[0076] In the example shown in FIG. 11 , the deformation mechanism 6 has a pair of pressing members 61. The pair of pressing members 61 are configured to be movable toward and away from each other. In this example, first, the container 110 is positioned so that the deformation portion 115 is located between the pair of pressing members 61. At this time, the container 110 is positioned so that the direction in which the pair of pressing members 61 face each other coincides with the second direction d2 of the container 110. That is, the container 110 is positioned so that, in a cross section perpendicular to the first direction d1, the wall portion in which the groove 119 is formed extends along the direction in which the pair of pressing members 61 face each other. Next, the pair of pressing members 61 are moved toward each other to crush the deformation portion 115. As a result, the deformation portion 115 deforms starting from the portion in which the groove 119 is formed, and the opening 111 is closed.

[0077] In the example shown in FIG. 12 , the deformation mechanism 6 has a pair of guide members 65. The pair of guide members 65 is configured so that the deformation portion 115 of the container 110 can move between the two guide members 65. The distance between the two guide members 65 becomes smaller toward the downstream side along the traveling direction of the container 110. The container 110 moves between the two guide members 65 with the opposing direction of the pair of guide members 65 coinciding with the second direction d2 of the container 110. That is, in a cross section perpendicular to the first direction d1, the container 110 moves between the two guide members 65 with the wall portion in which the groove 119 is formed extending along the opposing direction of the pair of pressing members 61. In this example, as the deformation portion 115 moves between the two guide members 65, the distance between the two guide members 65 becomes smaller, and the deformation portion 115 is crushed by the two guide members 65. As a result, the deforming portion 115 deforms starting from the portion where the groove 119 is formed, and the opening 111 is closed.

[0078] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing yet another example of the deformation mode of deformation portion 115. In FIG. 13, container 110 is shown as viewed from above. In the example shown in FIG. 13, grooves 119 are formed in each of two adjacent wall portions of the four wall portions that make up deformation portion 115. As a result, the strength of the two adjacent wall portions in which grooves 119 are formed is smaller than the strength of the other two wall portions. In this example, when an external force is applied by deformation mechanism 6 to the corner where the two adjacent wall portions in which grooves 119 are formed meet, toward the corner where the other two wall portions meet, the two adjacent wall portions in which grooves 119 are formed are deformed, and opening 111 is closed.

[0079] As another example of the deformable portion 115, the deformable portion 115 may be formed from a thermally responsive material. A thermally responsive material is a material that deforms when heated. Examples of the thermally responsive material include a heat-shrinkable material and a thermoplastic material. Examples of the heat-shrinkable material that can be used include polyamide and polyvinyl chloride. Examples of the thermoplastic material that can be used include polyethylene and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene resin (ABS resin). In this case, the main body 113 of the container 110 and the deformable portion 115 may be made of different materials. For example, the main body 113 may be made from a material that is not thermally responsive.

[0080] When the deformation portion 115 is formed of a thermoresponsive material, the deformation mechanism 6 may be a mechanism that deforms the deformation portion 115 by heating the deformation portion 115. Such a deformation mechanism 6 has a heating unit that heats the deformation portion 115. The heating unit has, for example, a heating device such as an electric heating wire. When the deformation portion 115 is formed of a heat-shrinkable material, the deformation portion 115 shrinks and deforms when heated by the heating device. This closes the opening 111. When the deformation portion 115 is formed of a thermoplastic material, the deformation portion 115 softens and deforms when heated by the heating device. This also closes the opening 111. Note that the deformation mechanism 6 may have, in addition to the heating device, a device that applies an external force to the deformation portion 115. Examples of the device that applies an external force to the deformation portion 115 include a device that applies a force to twist the deformation portion 115 or the opening 111 relative to the main body 113, and a device that applies a force to crush the deformation portion 115. By applying an external force to the deformed portion 115 that has been shrunk or softened by heating it with a heating device, it is possible to further deform the deformed portion 115. Therefore, the opening area of ​​the opening 115 can be further reduced.

[0081] Fig. 14 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the recovery mechanism 5 and the deformation mechanism 6, and Fig. 15 is a diagram showing another example of the configuration of the recovery mechanism 5 and the deformation mechanism 6. In Fig. 14 and Fig. 15, the recovery mechanism 5 and the deformation mechanism 6 are shown as viewed from above.

[0082] In the example shown in FIG. 14 , the recovery mechanism 5 includes a recovery arm 51 and a recovery unit 53. The recovery arm 51 is, for example, a robot arm and is configured to be rotatable about a rotation axis 52. The recovery unit 53 is a unit that accumulates used containers 110. The recovery unit 53 is, for example, a box-shaped member with an opening at the top. The recovery arm 51 grasps a container 110 that has been measured by the measurement unit 211 and removes it from the reaction disk 201, rotates about the rotation axis 52, and opens the container 110 over the opening of the recovery unit 53. This causes the container 110 to be introduced into the recovery unit 53. When a predetermined amount of containers 110 has accumulated in the recovery unit 53, an operator removes the containers 110 from the recovery unit 53 and discards them. The recovery unit 53 may be disposed integrally with the automatic analyzer 1 or separately from the automatic analyzer 1.

[0083] 14, the deformation mechanism 6 is disposed in the movement path of the container 110 held by the collection arm 51 between the reaction disk 201 and the collection unit 53. In this case, the container 110 taken out from the reaction disk 201 moves as the collection arm 51 rotates, and reaches the deformation mechanism 6. In the deformation mechanism 6, the deformation unit 115 of the container 110 is deformed, and the opening 111 is closed. Thereafter, the collection arm 51 rotates, and the container 110 moves toward the collection unit 53. When the deformation mechanism 6 is configured in this manner, there is no need to make any changes to the collection arm 51 in order to add the deformation mechanism 6.

[0084] 15, the deformation mechanism 6 is attached to the recovery arm 51 and moves together with the recovery arm 51. In this example, the container 110 removed from the reaction disk 201 moves as the recovery arm 51 rotates, and heads toward the recovery unit 53. The deformation unit 115 of the container 110 is deformed by the deformation mechanism 6 attached to the recovery arm 51. That is, the deformation mechanism 6 deforms the deformation unit 115 while transporting the container 110 from the reaction disk 201 to the recovery unit 53. This shortens the time from when the container 110 is removed from the reaction disk 201 to when it is placed into the recovery unit 53.

[0085] The container 110 of this embodiment is a container 110 used for measuring a substance 120 to be measured by an automatic analyzer 1, and has an opening 111, a main body portion 113 capable of accommodating the substance 120 to be measured, and a deformation portion 115 capable of closing the opening 111 by deformation.

[0086] In the container 110 of this embodiment, the deformation portion 115 is located above the main body portion 113 .

[0087] The automatic analyzer 1 of this embodiment has a measurement unit 211 that performs any measurement on the target substance 120 contained in a container 110 having an opening 111, a main body 113 that can accommodate the target substance 120, and a deformation unit 115 that can close the opening 111 by deformation, and the measurement unit 211 performs the measurement in the main body 113 that is located below the deformation unit 115.

[0088] The automatic analyzer 1 of this embodiment has a deformation mechanism 6 that deforms the deformation portion 115 to close the opening 111.

[0089] The automatic analysis system 100 of this embodiment comprises a container 110 having an opening 111, a main body 113 capable of containing a substance to be measured 120, and a deformation part 115 capable of closing the opening 111 by deformation, and an automatic analysis device 1 having a measurement part 211 that performs any measurement on the substance to be measured 120 contained in the container 110, and the measurement part 211 performs the measurement in the main body 113 located below the deformation part 115.

[0090] The container 110, which is discarded after measurement by the measurement unit 211, still contains the target substance 120. The target substance 120 includes a specimen, a reagent, and the like. The specimen may contain infectious substances such as bacteria and viruses. The reagent may also contain chemicals that are harmful to the human body. According to the container 110, automatic analyzer 1, and automatic analysis system 100 of this embodiment, the opening 111 can be closed by deforming the deformation portion 115. This prevents the target substance 120 from leaking from the container 110 when the container 110 containing the target substance 120 is transported from the reaction disk 201 to the collection unit 53 or while the container 110 is being stored in the collection unit 53. This reduces the possibility of an operator being exposed to the specimen, reagent, or the like contained in the target substance 120 that has leaked from the container 110 during analysis using the automatic analyzer 1, disposal of the container 110 stored in the collection unit 53, maintenance of the automatic analyzer 1, and the like. That is, exposure of the operator to infectious substances such as bacteria and viruses that may be contained in the specimen, and chemical substances that may be contained in the reagent and are harmful to the human body, is effectively prevented.

[0091] In the container 110 of this embodiment, the deformation 115 includes at least one spiral groove 117 .

[0092] In the automatic analyzer 1 of this embodiment, the deformation mechanism 6 deforms the deformation portion 115 by twisting the deformation portion 115.

[0093] According to such container 110 and automatic analyzer 1, deformable portion 115 can be easily deformed by twisting deformable portion 115.

[0094] In the container 110 of this embodiment, the deformation portion 115 includes at least one groove 119 extending in the vertical direction.

[0095] In the automatic analyzer 1 of this embodiment, the deformation mechanism 6 deforms the deformation portion 115 by squeezing the deformation portion 115.

[0096] According to such a container 110 and automatic analyzer 1, the deformable portion 115 can be easily deformed by squeezing the deformable portion 115.

[0097] In the container 110 of this embodiment, the deformation portion 115 is formed from a material that is thermally responsive.

[0098] In the automatic analyzer 1 of this embodiment, the deformation mechanism 6 heats the deformation part 115 to deform the deformation part 115.

[0099] According to such a container 110 and automatic analyzer 1, the deformable portion 115 can be easily deformed by heating the deformable portion 115.

[0100] In the above description, the term "processor" refers to a circuit such as a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or a programmable logic device (e.g., a simple programmable logic device (SPLD), a complex programmable logic device (CPLD), or a field programmable gate array (FPGA)). If the processor is a CPU, the processor executes a program stored in a memory circuit to implement each processing function. On the other hand, if the processor is an ASIC, the program is not stored in a memory circuit, but the processing function is directly incorporated into the processor circuit as a logic circuit. In this embodiment, each processor is not limited to being configured as a single circuit. Alternatively, the processor may be configured as a single processor by combining multiple independent circuits to implement its processing function. Furthermore, the multiple components in FIG. 1 may be integrated into a single processor to implement its processing function.

[0101] Although several embodiments and modifications have been described, these embodiments and modifications are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments and modifications can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, modifications, and combinations of embodiments and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and modifications are included within the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as within the scope of the invention and its equivalents as set forth in the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0102] 1 Automatic analyzer 2 Analysis mechanism 3 Analysis circuit 4 Drive mechanism 5. Recovery Mechanism 6 Transformation mechanism 7 Input Interface 8 Output Interfaces 9. Communication Interface 10 Memory circuit 11 Control circuit 51 Recovery Arm 52 Rotation axis 53 Recovery Department 61 Pressing member 65 Guide member 91 System Control Functions 92 Photometric control function 93 Recovery control function 94 Deformation control function 100 Automatic Analysis System 110 Container 111 Opening 113 Main body 115 Deformed part 117 Groove 119 Groove 120 Measurement target substances 200 reagent containers 201 Reaction Disk 202 Constant temperature section 203 Rack Sampler 204 Reagent Storage 206 Sample dispensing arm 207 Sample Dispensing Probe 208 Reagent dispensing arm 209 Reagent Dispensing Probe 211 Measurement unit (photometric unit)

Claims

1. A container used for measuring a target substance by an automatic analyzer, An opening; a main body capable of accommodating the measurement target substance; a deformable portion located above the main body portion and capable of closing the opening by being deformed.

2. The container of claim 1 , wherein the deformation includes at least one spiral groove.

3. The container according to claim 1 , wherein the deformation portion includes at least one groove extending in the vertical direction.

4. The container according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the deformable portion is formed of a material having thermal responsiveness.

5. a measuring unit that performs an arbitrary measurement on a substance to be measured contained in a container having an opening, a main body that can contain the substance to be measured, and a deformable unit that can close the opening by being deformed; a deformation mechanism that deforms the deformation portion to close the opening, The measurement unit performs the measurement in the main body unit, which is located below the deformation unit.

6. The automatic analyzer according to claim 5 , wherein the deformation mechanism deforms the deformation portion by twisting the deformation portion.

7. The automated analyzer according to claim 5 , wherein the deformation mechanism deforms the deformation portion by squeezing the deformation portion.

8. 7. The automatic analyzer according to claim 5, wherein the deformation mechanism deforms the deformation portion by heating the deformation portion.

9. a container having an opening, a main body capable of containing a substance to be measured, and a deformable portion located above the main body and capable of closing the opening by being deformed; an automatic analyzer including a measurement unit that performs an arbitrary measurement on the measurement target substance contained in the container, and a deformation mechanism that deforms the deformation unit to close the opening, An automatic analysis system, wherein the measurement unit performs the measurement in the main body unit located below the deformation unit.

Images