Automated analyzer, and method for disposing of reaction tubes in an automated analyzer.

Abstract

To reduce downtime of an automatic analyzer.SOLUTION: An automatic analyzer according to an embodiment comprises: a gripping mechanism that includes a plurality of contact parts to grip reaction tubes, wherein the plurality of contact parts is closed to grip the reaction tubes and the plurality of contact parts is opened to release the reaction tubes; and a wall part that is provided, in a reaction tube discarding position where the reaction tubes are discarded, at a position where the same is brought into contact with the reaction tubes partially supported by the plurality of contact parts of the gripping mechanism before the plurality of contact parts is fully opened.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings relate to an automatic analyzer.

Background Art

[0002] An automatic analyzer is a device that analyzes the components of a test sample, such as blood collected from a subject or a standard sample for each test item, by optically measuring a mixed solution obtained by mixing the sample with a reagent corresponding to each test item.

[0003] Such an automatic analyzer includes a blood coagulation type automatic analyzer that discharges blood as a sample into a reaction tube and observes and measures the coagulation process after mixing with a reagent. In such a blood coagulation type automatic analyzer, since the blood in the reaction tube has coagulated internally after the measurement of the measurement item is completed, it cannot be washed and reused. Therefore, the reaction tube after the measurement is completed is gripped by a pair of claw portions of the reaction tube conveyance unit and conveyed to the reaction tube disposal position. Then, at the reaction tube disposal position, when the pair of claw portions are opened, the reaction tube after the measurement is completed is put into the disposal port and discarded.

[0004] However, at the reaction tube disposal location, even if one pair of claws opens, the reaction tube may stick to the claws, preventing it from being inserted into the disposal port and thus not being disposed of. In this case, an operational error may occur in the reaction tube transport unit, or reaction tubes that have finished measuring may be scattered inside the device, forcing the user to temporarily stop the automated analyzer to address these issues. This results in downtime for the automated analyzer, potentially leading to a decrease in throughput. Furthermore, this issue is not limited to blood coagulation type automated analyzers, but also occurs in other automated analyzers that require the disposal of reaction tubes. Therefore, it is desirable to reduce downtime for the automated analyzer while preventing operational errors in the reaction tube transport unit and scattering of reaction tubes that have finished measuring inside the device, by enabling the disposal of reaction tubes even if they stick to the pair of claws in the automated analyzer. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2020-169827 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2010-078335 [Patent Document 3] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2020-186997 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0006] One of the problems that the embodiments disclosed herein and in the drawings aim to solve is to reduce the downtime of automated analyzers. However, the problems that the embodiments disclosed herein and in the drawings aim to solve are not limited to the above problem. Problems corresponding to the effects of each configuration shown in the embodiments described later can also be positioned as other problems. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The automated analyzer according to this embodiment includes a gripping mechanism having a plurality of contact parts for gripping a reaction tube, the gripping mechanism gripping the reaction tube when the plurality of contact parts close and releasing the reaction tube when the plurality of contact parts open, and a wall portion provided at a reaction tube disposal position where the reaction tube is discarded, at a position where the plurality of contact parts of the gripping mechanism come into contact with the reaction tube which is partially supported by the plurality of contact parts before the plurality of contact parts of the gripping mechanism fully open. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] A block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of an automated analyzer according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 1 shows an example of the configuration of the analytical mechanism in the automated analyzer. [Figure 3] This diagram illustrates the shape of the reaction tube used in the analytical apparatus shown in Figure 2. [Figure 4] Figure 2 shows a top view of the photometric unit included in the analysis mechanism. [Figure 5] Figure 2 shows a side view of the photometric unit included in the analysis mechanism. [Figure 6] Figure 2 shows another example of the photometric unit included in the analysis mechanism, viewed from above. [Figure 7] Figure 2 is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration of the reaction tube transport unit and transport drive mechanism included in the analytical apparatus shown. [Figure 8] Figure 2 shows an example of the configuration of the reaction tube transport unit included in the analytical mechanism. [Figure 9] Figure 2 shows an example of the configuration of the gripping mechanism of the reaction tube transport unit in the analytical apparatus, viewed from above. [Figure 10] Figure 2 illustrates the opening and closing operation of a pair of claws by the opening and closing mechanism of the analysis device shown. [Figure 11] Figure 2 illustrates an example of the configuration of the waste unit included in the analysis mechanism shown. [Figure 12] A diagram showing an example of the configuration of the first passage and wall of the waste reaction tube in the waste unit according to the first embodiment. [Figure 13] In the automatic analyzer according to the first embodiment, a diagram for explaining an example of the configuration of the wall portion and the process in which the reaction tube is discarded into the first waste reaction tube passage. [Figure 14] In the automatic analyzer according to the first embodiment, a diagram for explaining the process in which the reaction tube is discarded into the first waste reaction tube passage during normal times. [Figure 15] In the automatic analyzer according to the first embodiment, a diagram for explaining the process in which the reaction tube is discarded into the first waste reaction tube passage during normal times. [Figure 16] In the automatic analyzer according to the first embodiment, a diagram for explaining the process in which the reaction tube is discarded into the first waste reaction tube passage when the reaction tube is partially supported by a pair of claw portions. [Figure 17] In the automatic analyzer according to the first embodiment, a diagram for explaining the process in which the reaction tube is discarded into the first waste reaction tube passage when the reaction tube is partially supported by a pair of claw portions. [Figure 18] In the automatic analyzer according to the first embodiment, a diagram for explaining the process in which the reaction tube is discarded into the first waste reaction tube passage when the reaction tube is partially supported by a pair of claw portions. [Figure 19] In the automatic analyzer according to the first embodiment, a diagram for explaining the process in which the reaction tube is discarded into the first waste reaction tube passage when the reaction tube is partially supported by a pair of claw portions. [Figure 20] A flowchart for explaining the content of the reaction tube discard process executed by the automatic analyzer according to the first embodiment. [Figure 21] In the automatic analyzer according to the first embodiment, a diagram showing the state in which the gripping mechanism grips the reaction tube disposed at the reaction tube installation position. [Figure 22] In the automatic analyzer according to the first embodiment, a diagram showing that the reaction tube has been moved to the reaction tube discard position. [Figure 23] In the automatic analyzer according to Modification 1, a diagram for explaining an example of the configuration of the wall portion and the process in which the reaction tube is discarded into the first waste reaction tube passage. [Figure 24]A diagram for explaining an example of the configuration of a wall portion and the process in which a reaction tube is discarded into a first discarded reaction tube passage in the automatic analyzer according to Modification 2. [Figure 25] A diagram for explaining an example of the configuration of a wall portion and the process in which a reaction tube is discarded into a first discarded reaction tube passage in the automatic analyzer according to the second embodiment. [Figure 26] A block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the automatic analyzer according to the third embodiment. [Figure 27] A diagram for explaining an example of the installation position of a sensor and the process in which a reaction tube is discarded into a first discarded reaction tube passage in the automatic analyzer according to the third embodiment. [Figure 28] A flowchart for explaining the content of the notification process executed by the automatic analyzer according to the third embodiment.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0009] Hereinafter, embodiments of the automatic analyzer will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, components having substantially the same functions and configurations will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and duplicate explanations will be made only when necessary.

[0010] 〔First Embodiment〕 FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the automatic analyzer according to the first embodiment. In the present embodiment, this automatic analyzer is, for example, a blood coagulation analyzer. As shown in FIG. 1, the automatic analyzer 1 according to the present embodiment includes an analysis mechanism 2, an analysis circuit 3, a drive mechanism 4, an input interface 5, an output interface 6, a communication interface 7, a storage circuit 8, and a control circuit 9.

[0011] Analysis mechanism 2 generates a mixture of the blood sample, which is the subject's sample, and the coagulation reagent, which is the reagent used for each test item. Furthermore, depending on the test item, analysis mechanism 2 mixes a standard solution diluted to a predetermined ratio with the reagent used for that test item. Analysis mechanism 2 continuously measures the optical properties of the blood sample-reagent mixture and the standard solution-reagent mixture. This measurement generates standard data, expressed, for example, transmitted light intensity, absorbance, scattered light intensity, etc., as well as the subject data.

[0012] The analysis circuit 3 is a processor that generates calibration data and analysis data related to blood sample coagulation by analyzing the standard data and test data generated by the analysis mechanism 2. For example, the analysis circuit 3 reads an analysis program from the memory circuit 8 and analyzes the standard data and test data according to the read analysis program. The analysis circuit 3 may also include a memory area that stores at least a portion of the data stored in the memory circuit 8.

[0013] The drive mechanism 4 drives the analysis mechanism 2 according to the control of the control circuit 9. The drive mechanism 4 is implemented by, for example, gears, a stepping motor, a belt conveyor, and a lead screw. In particular, the drive mechanism 4 includes a transport drive mechanism 41 for driving the reaction tube transport unit, which will be described later. The transport drive mechanism 41 constitutes the transport drive unit in this embodiment.

[0014] The input interface 5 accepts settings such as analysis parameters for each test item related to a blood sample requested for measurement by the user or via the hospital network NW. The input interface 5 is implemented by, for example, a mouse, keyboard, and a touchpad on which instructions are input by touching the operating surface. The input interface 5 is connected to the control circuit 9, converts the operation instructions input by the user into electrical signals, and outputs the electrical signals to the control circuit 9. In this specification, the input interface 5 is not limited to those equipped with physical operating components such as a mouse and 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 these electrical signals to the control circuit 9 is also included as an example of the input interface 5.

[0015] The output interface 6 is connected to the control circuit 9 and outputs signals supplied from the control circuit 9. The output interface 6 is implemented by, for example, a display circuit, a printing circuit, and an audio device. The display circuit includes, for example, a CRT display, a liquid crystal display, an organic EL display, an LED display, and a plasma display. The display circuit also includes a processing circuit that converts data representing the display target into a video signal and outputs the video signal to the outside. The printing circuit includes, for example, a printer. The printing circuit also includes an output circuit that outputs data representing the print target to the outside. The audio device includes, for example, a speaker. The audio device also includes an output circuit that outputs an audio signal to the outside.

[0016] Communication interface 7 connects, for example, to the hospital network NW. Communication interface 7 communicates data with the HIS (Hospital Information System) via the hospital network NW. Alternatively, communication interface 7 may communicate data with the HIS via the Laboratory Information System (LIS), which is connected to the hospital network NW.

[0017] The memory circuit 8 is composed of a magnetic or optical recording medium, or a semiconductor memory, or other recording medium that can be read by the processor. Note that the memory circuit 8 does not necessarily need to be implemented by a single storage device. For example, the memory circuit 8 can be implemented by multiple storage devices.

[0018] Furthermore, the memory circuit 8 stores the analysis program executed by the analysis circuit 3 and the control program for realizing the functions provided in the control circuit 9. The memory circuit 8 stores the calibration data generated by the analysis circuit 3 for each test item. The memory circuit 8 stores the analysis data generated by the analysis circuit 3 for each blood sample. The memory circuit 8 stores the test orders entered by the user or the test orders received by the communication interface 7 via the hospital network NW.

[0019] The control circuit 9 is a processor that functions as the central hub of the automated analyzer 1. The control circuit 9 realizes the functions corresponding to the operation program stored in the memory circuit 8 by executing the operation program stored in the memory circuit 8. The control circuit 9 may also have a memory area that stores at least a portion of the data stored in the memory circuit 8.

[0020] Figure 2 shows an example of the configuration of the analysis mechanism 2 in the automated analyzer 1 shown in Figure 1. As shown in Figure 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 unit 204.

[0021] The reaction disk 201 holds multiple reaction tubes (cuvettes) 2011 arranged in a ring. The reaction disk 201 transports the reaction tubes 2011 along a predetermined path. Specifically, during the analysis of a sample, the reaction disk 201 is rotated and stopped alternately at predetermined time intervals by the drive mechanism 4. The reaction tubes 2011 are made of, for example, polypropylene (PP) or acrylic.

[0022] Figure 3 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the shape of the reaction tube 2011 used in the analysis mechanism 2 shown in Figure 2. As shown in Figure 3, the reaction tube 2011 according to this embodiment has a flange portion 2011_1, a body portion 2011_2, and a lower end portion 2011_3. The flange portion 2011_1 is an annular member provided around the body portion 2011_2. The outer diameter of this flange portion 2011_1 is formed to be larger than the outer diameter of the body portion 2011_2. The body portion 2011_2 is a bottomed cylindrical member with an open top surface. An opening is formed at the upper end of this body portion 2011_2. The side surface of the body portion 2011_2 is, for example, cylindrical. The lower end portion 2011_3 is the lower end of the body portion 2011_2, and the shape of the lower end portion 2011_3 is, for example, a partial sphere. Furthermore, the side of the fuselage section 2011_2 constitutes the side section in this embodiment.

[0023] In this embodiment, the shape of the flange portion 2011_1 is annular, but is not limited to this. That is, the shape of the flange portion 2011_1 is arbitrary and may be, for example, rectangular. Also, in this embodiment, the shape of the side surface of the body portion 2011_2 is cylindrical, but is not limited to this. That is, the shape of the side surface of the body portion 2011_2 is arbitrary and may be a straight tube, a rectangular tube, or a combination of cylindrical and rectangular tube shapes. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the shape of the lower end portion 2011_3 of the reaction tube 2011 is partially spherical, but is not limited to this. That is, the shape of the lower end portion 2011_3 is arbitrary and may be partially cylindrical.

[0024] The constant temperature unit 202 stores a heat transfer medium set to a predetermined temperature and raises the temperature of the mixed liquid contained in the reaction tube 2011 by immersing the reaction tube 2011 in the stored heat transfer medium.

[0025] The rack sampler 203 provides movable support for a sample rack 2031 capable of holding multiple sample containers, each containing blood samples that have been requested for measurement. In the example shown in Figure 2, a sample rack 2031 capable of holding five sample containers in parallel is shown.

[0026] The rack sampler 203 is provided with a transport area 2032 for transporting sample racks 2031. That is, using this transport area 2032, the sample racks 2031 are transported from the input position where they are placed to the collection position where the sample racks 2031 are retrieved after measurement is complete. In the transport area 2032, multiple sample racks 2031 aligned in the longitudinal direction are moved in direction D1 by the drive mechanism 4.

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

[0028] Furthermore, the rack sampler 203 is provided with a return area 2034 for returning the sample rack 2031, which holds the sample container in 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 cabinet 204 holds multiple reagent containers 100 containing standard solutions and reagents used in various tests performed on blood samples, while keeping them cool. A rotating table is rotatably mounted inside the reagent cabinet 204. The rotating table holds the multiple reagent containers 100 in a ring-like arrangement. In this embodiment, although not shown in Figure 2, the reagent cabinet 204 is covered by a removable reagent cover.

[0030] Furthermore, the analysis mechanism 2 according to this embodiment, shown in Figure 2, comprises a sample dispensing arm 206, a sample dispensing probe 207, a reagent dispensing arm 208, a reagent dispensing probe 209, and a photometric unit 210.

[0031] The sample dispensing arm 206 is positioned between the reaction disk 201 and the rack sampler 203. The sample dispensing arm 206 is provided by a drive mechanism 4 so as to be able to move vertically up and down and rotate horizontally. 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 trajectory as the sample dispensing arm 206 rotates. A sample aspiration position is provided on this rotational trajectory for aspirating a sample from a sample container held by a sample rack 2031 on the rack sampler 203. Additionally, a sample dispensing position is provided on the rotational trajectory of the sample dispensing probe 207 for dispensing the sample aspirated by the sample dispensing probe 207 into the reaction tube 2011. The sample dispensing position corresponds, for example, to the intersection of the rotational trajectory of the sample dispensing probe 207 and the movement trajectory of the reaction tube 2011 held on the reaction disk 201.

[0033] The sample dispensing probe 207 is driven by the drive mechanism 4 and moves vertically at the sample aspiration position or the sample dispensing position. The sample dispensing probe 207 also aspirates a sample from the sample container located directly below the sample aspiration position, according to the control circuit 9. The sample dispensing probe 207 also dispenses the aspirated sample into the reaction tube 2011 located directly below the sample dispensing position, according to the control circuit 9.

[0034] The reagent dispensing arm 208 is located between the reaction disk 201 and the reagent storage compartment 204. The reagent dispensing arm 208 is provided by a drive mechanism 4 so as to be able to move vertically up and down and rotate horizontally. 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 trajectory as the reagent dispensing arm 208 rotates. A reagent aspiration position is provided on this rotational trajectory. The reagent aspiration position is, for example, located at the intersection of the rotational trajectory of the reagent dispensing probe 209 and the movement trajectory of the opening of the reagent container 100, which is placed in an annular shape on the rotating table of the reagent storage unit 204. Additionally, a reagent dispensing position is set on the rotational trajectory of the reagent dispensing probe 209 for dispensing the reagent aspirationd by the reagent dispensing probe 209 into the reaction tube 2011. The reagent dispensing position corresponds, for example, to the intersection of the rotational trajectory of the reagent dispensing probe 209 and the movement trajectory of the reaction tube 2011 held on the reaction disk 201.

[0036] The reagent dispensing probe 209 is driven by the drive mechanism 4 and moves vertically at the reagent aspiration position or reagent dispensing position on its rotational trajectory. The reagent dispensing probe 209 also aspirates reagent from the reagent container stopped at the reagent aspiration position, according to the control circuit 9. The reagent dispensing probe 209 also dispenses the aspirated reagent into the reaction tube 2011 located directly below the reagent dispensing position, according to the control circuit 9.

[0037] Furthermore, in the analysis mechanism 2 according to this embodiment, the same number of photometric units as the number of reaction tubes 2011 that can be held in the reaction disk 201 are provided inside. These photometric units constitute the photometric section in this embodiment. Figures 4 and 5 are schematic diagrams showing examples of the configuration of these photometric units. Figure 4 is a top view of the photometric unit provided in the analysis mechanism shown in Figure 2. Figure 5 is a side view of the photometric unit provided in the analysis mechanism shown in Figure 2.

[0038] The photometric unit 210 continuously measures the optical properties of the mixture of sample and reagent dispensed into the reaction tube 2011. In the analytical mechanism 2 according to this embodiment, multiple photometric units 210 are provided. For example, the number of photometric units 210 is the same as the number of reaction tubes that can be held by the reaction disk 201. That is, one photometric unit 210 is provided for each reaction tube held by the reaction disk 201. Since the configuration of each photometric unit 210 is the same, Figures 4 and 5 show one photometric unit 210 as a representative example.

[0039] The photometric unit 210 shown in Figures 4 and 5 includes, for example, a light source 2101 and photodetectors 2102 and 2103. For example, the photometric unit 210 has the light source 2101 on the annular center side of the reaction tube 2011, which is held in an annular shape by the reaction disk 201. The light source 2101 is positioned to irradiate light toward the outside of the ring in which the reaction tubes 2011 are arranged. Note that the photodetectors 2102 and 2103 may consist of only one of these.

[0040] The light source 2101 generates light of two different wavelengths. For example, the light source 2101 generates a first light with a longer wavelength and a second light with a shorter wavelength. For example, the wavelength of the first light is included in the red wavelength range of 620-750 nm, and the wavelength of the second light is included in the violet to blue wavelength range of 380-495 nm. Note that the wavelengths of the first and second light may each be included in the red wavelength range of 620-750 nm. The light source 2101 can be realized by, for example, a multi-wavelength LED capable of generating 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 a wide wavelength range using a filter.

[0041] The light source 2101 generates first and second light according to the control of the control circuit 9. Specifically, for example, the light source 2101 alternately generates first and second light at a predetermined period. In this case, the light source 2101 alternately generates first and second light at a period of 0.05 seconds, which is half of the smallest measurement unit of solidification, for example, 0.1 seconds. The light irradiated from the light source 2101 is incident on the reaction tube 2011.

[0042] The light source 2101 may generate light of one wavelength specified by the control circuit 9. Alternatively, the light source 2101 may generate the first and second wavelengths of light simultaneously. However, in this case, filters for excluding unwanted wavelengths of light must be provided in the photodetectors 2102 and 2103.

[0043] The photodetector 2102 is positioned opposite the light source 2101, with the reaction tube 2011 in between. Light emitted from the light source 2101 enters the reaction tube 2011 from the first side wall and exits from the second side wall opposite the first side wall. The photodetector 2102 detects the light emitted from the reaction tube 2011. The photodetector 2102 is, for example, an example of a transmitted light receiving unit.

[0044] Specifically, for example, the photodetector 2102 detects light transmitted through the mixture of standard solution and reagent in the reaction tube 2011. The photodetector 2102 samples the detected light at predetermined time intervals, for example, every 0.1 seconds, and generates standard data represented by transmitted light intensity or absorbance. The predetermined time interval is synchronized, for example, with the frequency of the first light generation. The photodetector 2102 may also be configured to detect only light with a wavelength corresponding to the wavelength of the first light. The photodetector 2102 also detects light transmitted through the mixture of blood sample and reagent in the reaction tube 2011. The photodetector 2102 samples the detected light at predetermined time intervals and generates test data represented by transmitted light intensity or absorbance. The photodetector 2102 outputs the generated standard data and test data to the analysis circuit 3.

[0045] The photodetector 2103 is positioned so that the irradiation axis of the light from the light source 2101 and the light receiving axis of the photodetector 2103 intersect at approximately 90 degrees within the reaction tube 2011. Light emitted from the light source 2101 enters the reaction tube 2011 from the first side wall, is scattered by particles in the mixed liquid, and then exits from the third side wall, which is adjacent to the first side wall at a 90-degree angle. The photodetector 2103 detects the light emitted from the reaction tube 2011. The photodetector 2103 is, for example, an example of a scattered light receiving unit.

[0046] Specifically, for example, the photodetector 2103 detects light scattered by the mixture of standard solution and reagent in the reaction tube 2011. The photodetector 2103 samples the detected light at predetermined time intervals, for example, every 0.1 seconds, and generates standard data represented by scattered light intensity, etc. The predetermined time interval is synchronized, for example, with the frequency of the second light emission. The photodetector 2103 may also be configured to detect only light with a wavelength corresponding to the wavelength of the second light, for example. The photodetector 2103 also detects light scattered by the mixture of blood sample and reagent in the reaction tube 2011. The photodetector 2103 samples the detected light at predetermined time intervals and generates test data represented by scattered light intensity, etc. The photodetector 2103 outputs the generated standard data and test data to the analysis circuit 3.

[0047] The photodetectors 2102 and 2103 may also output the detected light intensity as a detection signal to the analysis circuit 3. In this case, the analysis circuit 3 samples the detection signal at predetermined time intervals, for example, every 0.1 seconds, and generates standard data and test data.

[0048] Figure 6 is a top view configuration diagram of another example of the photometric unit 210 included in the analysis mechanism 2 shown in Figure 2. Similar to Figure 4, Figure 6 shows an example of the positional relationship of each component when the photometric unit 210 is viewed from above the reaction disk 201. The photometric unit 210 shown in Figure 6 has two LEDs 51 and 52 as light sources 2101. In the example shown in Figure 6, the light irradiation axis of LED 52 is tilted by a predetermined angle with respect to the light irradiation axis of LED 51.

[0049] The photodetector 2102 is positioned opposite the LED 51 across the reaction tube 2011, similar to the examples in Figures 4 and 5. On the other hand, the photodetector 2103 is positioned such that the light irradiation axis of the LED 52 and the light receiving axis of the photodetector 2103 intersect at approximately 90 degrees within the reaction tube 2011.

[0050] Furthermore, the analysis mechanism 2 according to this embodiment, shown in Figure 2, includes a reaction tube supply unit 211, a reaction tube transport unit 212, an opening / closing mechanism 213, and a waste unit 214.

[0051] The reaction tube supply unit 211 supplies empty reaction tubes 2011. The reaction tube supply unit 211 is located near the outer circumference of the reaction disk 201. The reaction tube supply unit 211 is configured, for example, with a reaction tube housing unit 2111 and a reaction tube supply rail 2112. The reaction tube housing unit 2111 houses, for example, multiple empty reaction tubes 2011. The reaction tube housing unit 2111 supplies empty reaction tubes 2011 to the reaction tube supply rail 2112 by the control circuit 9. The reaction tube supply rail 2112 is, for example, inclined toward the reaction tube supply position from the reaction tube housing unit 2111. Therefore, the reaction tubes 2011 slide along the reaction tube supply rail 2112 due to gravity and move toward the reaction tube supply position. The reaction tube supply position is, for example, the position where the rotating track, which is the transport path for the reaction tube 2011 in the reaction tube transport unit 212, intersects with the moving track of the reaction tube 2011 on the reaction tube supply rail 2112.

[0052] The reaction tube transport unit 212 transports the reaction tube 2011. In this embodiment, the reaction tube transport unit 212 transports, for example, the reaction tube 2011, which has been placed on the reaction disk 201 and whose measurement has been completed, to the reaction tube disposal location where the reaction tube 2011 is discarded.

[0053] The reaction tube transport unit 212 may also transport the reaction tube 2011 from the reaction tube supply unit 211 to the reaction disk 201. Alternatively, a separate reaction tube transport unit 212 may transport the reaction tube 2011 from the reaction tube supply unit 211 to the reaction disk 201, in addition to the reaction tube transport unit 212 that transports the reaction tube 2011 to the reaction tube disposal position after measurement is complete.

[0054] Here, the reaction tube transport unit 212 will be described in detail with reference to Figures 7 to 9. Figure 7 is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration of the reaction tube transport unit 212 and transport drive mechanism 41 provided in the analysis mechanism shown in Figure 2. Figure 8 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the reaction tube transport unit 212 provided in the analysis mechanism shown in Figure 2. Figure 9 is a top view of an example of the configuration of the gripping mechanism of the reaction tube transport unit 212 provided in the analysis mechanism shown in Figure 2. As shown in Figure 7, the reaction tube transport unit 212 according to this embodiment is configured to include, for example, a reaction tube transport arm 2121 and a gripping mechanism 2122.

[0055] The reaction tube transport arm 2121 is provided by the transport drive mechanism 41 of the drive mechanism 4 so as to be able to move vertically up and down and rotate horizontally. This reaction tube transport arm 2121 is equipped with a gripping mechanism 2122 at one end.

[0056] The gripping mechanism 2122 is a mechanism for gripping the reaction tube 2011 at a predetermined position or for releasing the reaction tube 2011. The gripping mechanism 2122 according to this embodiment is composed of a pair of claws 2122_1, a shaft 2122_2, a rotating shaft 2122_3, and a biasing member 2122_4.

[0057] The pair of claws 2122_1 are members that grip the reaction tube 2011. The pair of claws 2122_1 grip or release the reaction tube 2011 by opening and closing around the rotation axis 2122_3. In this embodiment, the gripping mechanism 2122 grips the reaction tube 2011 when the pair of claws 2122_1 close and releases the reaction tube 2011 when the pair of claws 2122_1 open. In addition, as shown in Figure 8, the pair of claws 2122_1 in this embodiment grips the reaction tube 2011 by, for example, gripping the flange portion 2011_1 of the reaction tube 2011. In this embodiment, an example is described in which the reaction tube 2011 is gripped by only one pair of claws 2122_1. However, other configurations besides one pair of claws can be appropriately adopted as long as the grip is achieved by multiple contact points, such as providing three claws at 120° angle intervals.

[0058] The shaft 2122_2 is a member that protrudes from each of the pair of claw portions 2122_1. In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 9, for example, when a force is applied to the shaft 2122_2 in the a1 direction, that is, by narrowing the distance between the shafts 2122_2, the pair of claw portions 2122_1 are opened with the rotation axis 2122_3 as the center of rotation.

[0059] The rotating shaft 2122_3 is attached to each of the pair of claw portions 2122_1 and is the axial member that serves as the rotation center of the pair of claw portions 2122_1. The biasing member 2122_4 is a member that biases the pair of claw portions 2122_1. In this embodiment, the biasing member 2122_4 is, for example, a spring. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 9, the biasing member 2122_4 in this embodiment biases the pair of claw portions 2122_1 in the direction b1, which is the direction in which they close, with the rotating shaft 2122_3 as the rotation center.

[0060] In this embodiment, the gripping mechanism 2122 opens a pair of claws 2122_1 around the rotation axis 2122_3 by narrowing the distance between the shafts 2122_2, but the configuration of the gripping mechanism 2122 is not limited to this. That is, the configuration of the gripping mechanism 2122 is arbitrary, and for example, the gripping mechanism 2122 may open a pair of claws 2122_1 around the rotation axis 2122_3 by widening the distance between the shafts 2122_2, or it may be configured to open a pair of claws 2122_1 by an electrical configuration such as a motor.

[0061] Furthermore, in the gripping mechanism 2122 according to this embodiment, the gripping mechanism 2122 is a mechanism that moves each of a pair of claw portions 2122_1, but the gripping mechanism 2122 may also be configured to connect the pair of claw portions 2122_1 with gears or the like, so that the pair of claw portions 2122_1 open in conjunction with each other.

[0062] The reaction tube transport unit 212 according to this embodiment transports the reaction tube 2011 such that the gripping mechanism 2122 and the reaction tube 2011 gripped by the gripping mechanism 2122 pass through a transport path. The transport path for the gripping mechanism 2122 and the reaction tube 2011 gripped by the gripping mechanism 2122 is formed, for example, on an arc-shaped rotating trajectory associated with the rotation of the reaction tube transport arm 2121. On this transport path, for example, a reaction tube disposal position and a reaction tube installation position on the reaction disk 201 are provided. The reaction tube installation position on the reaction disk 201 is, for example, the position where the rotating trajectory which is the transport path for the reaction tube 2011 on the reaction disk 201 intersects with the rotating trajectory which is the transport path for the reaction tube 2011 gripped by the gripping mechanism 2122.

[0063] The opening / closing mechanism 213 is a mechanism that opens and closes a pair of claw portions 2122_1 of the gripping mechanism 2122. The opening / closing mechanism 213 is installed, for example, near the reaction tube disposal location.

[0064] Figure 10 illustrates the opening and closing operation of a pair of claw portions 2122_1 by the opening and closing mechanism 213 provided in the analysis mechanism 2 shown in Figure 2. As shown in Figure 10, the opening and closing mechanism 213 according to this embodiment includes a notch 2131 that guides the shaft 2122_2. When the gripping mechanism 2122 descends, the opening and closing mechanism 213 opens the pair of claw portions 2122_1 by the notch 2131 operating the shaft 2122_2.

[0065] Specifically, as shown in Figure 10, the shape of the notch portion 2131 according to this embodiment is such that it slopes towards the center of the opening / closing mechanism 213 as it goes from the top to the bottom of the opening / closing mechanism 213. In other words, the shape of the notch portion 2131 is such that the width of the notch portion 2131 narrows as it goes from the top to the bottom of the opening / closing mechanism 213. The shafts 2122_2 protruding from each of the pair of claw portions 2122_1 come into contact with the notch portion 2131 when the gripping mechanism 2122 is lowered by the transport drive mechanism 41. Then, as the gripping mechanism 2122 is lowered further by the transport drive mechanism 41, the shafts 2122_2 that have come into contact with the notch portion 2131 move downward along the notch portion 2131, so that the distance between the shafts 2122_2 narrows. In other words, when the gripping mechanism 2122 is lowered by the transport drive mechanism 41, the opening / closing mechanism 213 opens the pair of claws 2122_1 by narrowing the distance between the shafts 2122_2 that protrude from each of the pair of claws 2122_1 through the notch 2131.

[0066] Furthermore, the shaft 2122_2 that abuts against the notch 2131 rises along the notch 2131 when the gripping mechanism 2122 rises due to the transport drive mechanism 41. At this time, the biasing member 2122_4 biases the pair of claw portions 2122_1 in the closing direction. As a result, the shaft 2122_2 that abuts against the notch 2131 rises along the notch 2131, and the biasing force of the biasing member 2122_4 widens the distance between the shafts 2122_2. In other words, the opening and closing mechanism 213 closes the pair of claw portions 2122_1 by widening the distance between the shafts 2122_2 protruding from each of the pair of claw portions 2122_1 when the gripping mechanism 2122 rises due to the transport drive mechanism 41. This notch 2131 constitutes a guide portion according to this embodiment.

[0067] In this embodiment, the opening / closing mechanism 213 opens the pair of claw portions 2122_1 by narrowing the distance between the shafts 2122_2 protruding from each of the pair of claw portions 2122_1 through the notch 2131. However, the configuration of the opening / closing mechanism 213 is not limited to this. That is, the configuration of the opening / closing mechanism 213 is arbitrary. For example, if the gripping mechanism 2122 opens the pair of claw portions 2122_1 around the rotation axis 2122_3 by widening the distance between the shafts 2122_2, the opening / closing mechanism 213 may open each of the pair of claw portions 2122_1 by widening the distance between the shafts 2122_2 protruding from each of the pair of claw portions 2122_1 through the notch 2131. Furthermore, if the gripping mechanism 2122 is a mechanism that opens a pair of claw portions 2122_1 in conjunction, the opening / closing mechanism 213 may also be configured to open the pair of claw portions 2122_1 in conjunction.

[0068] Figure 11 shows an example of the configuration of the waste unit 214 provided in the analysis mechanism 2 shown in Figure 2. As shown in Figure 11, the waste unit 214 according to this embodiment is configured to include a first waste reaction tube passage 2141, a wall portion 2142, a second waste reaction tube passage 2143, and a waste reaction tube housing portion 2144.

[0069] Referring to Figures 12 and 13, an example of the configuration of the first waste reaction tube passage 2141 and the wall portion 2142 will be described. Figure 12 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the first waste reaction tube passage 2141 and the wall portion 2142 in the waste unit 214 according to this embodiment. Figure 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the wall portion 2142 and the process by which the reaction tube 2011 is disposed of in the first waste reaction tube passage 2141 in the automatic analyzer 1 according to this embodiment. The first waste reaction tube passage 2141 discharges the reaction tube 2011, which is the opening of the first waste reaction tube passage 2141, into the second waste reaction tube passage 2143 at the reaction tube disposal position. The reaction tube disposal position is, for example, the position where the outlet 2141_1 of the first waste reaction tube passage 2141 intersects with the rotating trajectory, which is the transport path of the reaction tube 2011 held by the gripping mechanism 2122. The first passage 2141 of the waste reaction tube constitutes the waste section in this embodiment.

[0070] The wall portion 2142 is positioned to contact the reaction tube 2011, which is partially supported by the pair of claw portions 2122_1, before the pair of claw portions 2122_1 fully open. Specifically, in this embodiment, as shown in Figures 12 and 13, the wall portion 2142 is provided on the inside of the left and right side walls of the waste reaction tube first passage 2141, perpendicular to the opening and closing direction of the pair of claw portions 2122_1.

[0071] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the wall portion 2142 is a downward-extending plate-shaped member 2142a provided inside the waste reaction tube first passage 2141. As shown in Figures 12 and 13, the plate-shaped member 2142a has a bent portion 2142a_1 with rounded corners. Because the bent portion 2142a_1 of this plate-shaped member 2142a is rounded, the flange portion 2011_1 of the reaction tube 2011 falls into the waste reaction tube first passage 2141 without getting caught on the plate-shaped member 2142a.

[0072] The reason for providing the wall portion 2142 will be explained by describing the process by which the reaction tube 2011 is discarded into the first waste reaction tube passage 2141 with reference to Figures 13 to 19. Figures 14 and 15 are diagrams illustrating the process by which the reaction tube 2011 is discarded into the first waste reaction tube passage 2141 under normal conditions in the automatic analyzer 1 according to this embodiment. Figures 16 to 19 are diagrams illustrating the process by which the reaction tube 2011 is discarded into the first waste reaction tube passage 2141 when the reaction tube 2011 is partially supported by a pair of claw portions 2122_1 in the automatic analyzer 1 according to this embodiment. First, an example of the process by which the reaction tube 2011 is discarded into the first waste reaction tube passage 2141 under normal conditions will be described with reference to Figures 13 to 15.

[0073] As shown in Figure 13, first, the automated analyzer 1 transports the reaction tube 2011 to be discarded to the reaction tube disposal position. At this reaction tube disposal position, the automated analyzer 1 drives the transport drive mechanism 41 to start the descent of the gripping mechanism 2122, thereby starting the descent of the reaction tube 2011 that has been transported to the reaction tube disposal position. As shown in Figure 13, before the descent of the reaction tube 2011 begins, the lower end portion 2011_3 of the reaction tube 2011 is located above the disposal port 2141_1, and the pair of claw portions 2122_1 are closed.

[0074] Next, as shown in Figure 14, when the lower end 2011_3 of the reaction tube 2011 being lowered by the transport drive mechanism 41 reaches a position below the waste port 2141_1, the pair of claws 2122_1 begin to open due to the opening / closing mechanism 213. That is, when the lower end 2011_3 of the reaction tube 2011 being lowered by the transport drive mechanism 41 reaches a position below the waste port 2141_1, the shaft 2122_2 that is in contact with the notch 2131 begins to descend along the notch 2131, and the distance between the shafts 2122_2 begins to narrow, causing the pair of claws 2122_1 to begin to open. In this way, since the pair of claws 2122_1 begin to open after the lower end 2011_3 of the reaction tube 2011 has entered the waste port 2141_1, scattering of the reaction tube 2011 into the apparatus can be reduced.

[0075] Furthermore, the position below the waste port 2141_1 may be a position below the upper surface of the first waste reaction tube passage 2141, and as shown in Figure 14, if a wall portion 2142 is attached to the first waste reaction tube passage 2141, it may be a position below the upper surface of the wall portion 2142.

[0076] Then, as shown in Figure 15, when the opening of the pair of claws 2122_1 becomes larger than the size of the flange portion 2011_1 of the reaction tube 2011, the reaction tube 2011 is released from the pair of claws 2122_1, and the reaction tube 2011 is discarded into the first waste reaction tube passage 2141. Note that the opening of the pair of claws 2122_1 refers to the degree to which the pair of claws 2122_1 are open.

[0077] As described above, under normal circumstances, the opening of the pair of claws 2122_1 becomes larger than the size of the flange portion 2011_1 of the reaction tube 2011, thereby freeing the reaction tube 2011 from the pair of claws 2122_1, and allowing the reaction tube 2011 to be discarded into the first waste reaction tube passage 2141.

[0078] Next, referring to Figures 13 and 16 to 19, the process by which the reaction tube 2011 is discarded into the first waste reaction tube passage 2141 when the reaction tube 2011 is partially supported by a pair of claws 2122_1 will be explained. Note that the explanation of Figure 13 is the same as the explanation of Figure 13 described above, so the explanation will be omitted.

[0079] Next, as shown in Figure 16, when the lower end 2011_3 of the reaction tube 2011 being lowered by the transport drive mechanism 41 reaches a position below the waste port 2141_1, the pair of claws 2122_1 begin to open due to the opening / closing mechanism 213. That is, when the lower end 2011_3 of the reaction tube 2011 being lowered by the transport drive mechanism 41 reaches a position below the waste port 2141_1, the shaft 2122_2 that is in contact with the notch 2131 begins to descend along the notch 2131, and the distance between the shafts 2122_2 begins to narrow, causing the pair of claws 2122_1 to begin to open. At this time, the reaction tube 2011, which is gripped by a pair of claw portions 2122_1, may move together with one of the claw portions 2122_1, for example, by sticking to the pair of claw portions 2122_1. In the example shown in Figure 16, the flange portion 2011_1 of the reaction tube 2011 is stuck to the right claw portion of the pair of claw portions 2122_1, and therefore moves together with the right claw portion.

[0080] Next, as shown in Figure 17, the pair of claws 2122_1 continue to open due to the opening / closing mechanism 213, causing the reaction tube 2011 to no longer be supported by the left claw. On the other hand, the flange portion 2011_1 of the reaction tube 2011 is attached to the right claw of the pair of claws 2122_1, so the reaction tube 2011 is partially supported by the right claw. Therefore, the reaction tube 2011, which is partially supported by the right claw, does not fall into the waste reaction tube first passage 2141, but moves further in the opening direction of the pair of claws 2122_1 together with the right claw. Partial support by the claw portion means that a part of the reaction tube 2011, such as the flange portion 2011_1 or the body portion 2011_2 of the reaction tube 2011, is supported by one of the pair of claw portions 2122_1, or is supported by both of the pair of claw portions 2122_1.

[0081] Then, as shown in Figure 18, the reaction tube 2011 contacts the wall 2142 while being partially supported by the right claw. At this time, as shown in Figures 18 and 19, the reaction tube 2011, which is partially supported by the right claw, contacts the wall 2142 before the pair of claws 2122_1 fully open. Then, the pair of claws 2122_1 open further from the position where the reaction tube 2011 contacts the wall 2142, so the reaction tube 2011 detaches from the pair of claws 2122_1, and as shown in Figure 19, the reaction tube 2011 is discarded into the first waste reaction tube passage 2141.

[0082] In other words, when the reaction tube 2011 is discarded into the first waste reaction tube passage 2141, even if the reaction tube 2011 is partially supported by the pair of claws 2122_1 by clinging to them, the reaction tube 2011 that is partially supported by the pair of claws 2122_1 will come into contact with the wall portion 2142 located at the position where it contacts the reaction tube 2011 that is partially supported by the pair of claws 2122_1 before the pair of claws 2122_1 of the gripping mechanism 2122 fully open, thereby detaching from the pair of claws 2122_1 and being discarded into the first waste reaction tube passage 2141.

[0083] As shown in Figure 17, when the side of the body portion 211_2 of the reaction tube 2011 being lowered by the transport drive mechanism 41 passes through the waste port 2141_1, the opening of the pair of claw portions 2122_1 is smaller than the width of the waste port 2141_1. As a result, after the side of the body portion 2011_2 of the reaction tube 2011 enters the waste port 2141_1, the reaction tube 2011, which is partially supported by the pair of claw portions 2122_1, moves further in the direction in which the pair of claw portions 2122_1 open, allowing the reaction tube 2011, which is partially supported by the pair of claw portions 2122_1, to come into contact with the wall portion 2142. Furthermore, the width of the waste port 2141_1 is, for example, the width between the wall portions 2142 attached to each of the side walls of the waste reaction tube first passage 2141, as shown in Figure 17.

[0084] Furthermore, while the explanation in Figures 16 to 19 describes the case where the reaction tube 2011 is attached to the right claw, if the reaction tube 2011 is attached to the left claw, the reaction tube 2011 is also discarded into the first waste reaction tube passage 2141 by bringing the reaction tube 2011 into contact with the wall portion 2142 provided on the left side, just as in the case where it is attached to the right claw.

[0085] Returning to Figure 11, the second waste reaction tube passage 2143 allows the reaction tube 2011, discharged from the first waste reaction tube passage 2141, to pass towards the waste reaction tube housing section 2144 and be discharged into the waste reaction tube housing section 2144. In this embodiment, the second waste reaction tube passage 2143 is formed from a hollow pipe-shaped member, and the reaction tube 2011 passes through this hollow portion.

[0086] In other words, the reaction tube 2011 discharged from the first waste reaction tube passage 2141 is discharged into the second waste reaction tube passage 2143. The second waste reaction tube passage 2143 has an inclined path that slopes downward from the first waste reaction tube passage 2141 toward the waste reaction tube housing section 2144. Therefore, the reaction tube 2011 discharged from the first waste reaction tube passage 2141 to the second waste reaction tube passage 2143 slides down this inclined path toward the waste reaction tube housing section 2144. Then, it is disposed of into the waste reaction tube housing section 2144 from the outlet of the second waste reaction tube passage 2143 toward the waste reaction tube housing section 2144. As can be seen from this, the inclination angle of the second waste reaction tube passage 2143 is arbitrary, but at a minimum, an inclination angle is required that allows the discarded reaction tube 2011 to slide smoothly down the inclined path.

[0087] The waste reaction tube storage section 2144 houses the reaction tubes 2011 discarded from the waste reaction tube second passage 2143. In other words, the waste reaction tube storage section 2144 acts as a waste box, accumulating multiple discarded reaction tubes 2011. When a certain amount of reaction tubes 2011 have accumulated in the waste reaction tube storage section 2144, the user removes the accumulated reaction tubes 2011 along with the waste reaction tube storage section 2144 and sets a new, empty waste reaction tube storage section 2144 in the same position.

[0088] Therefore, in the automatic analyzer 1 according to this embodiment, the waste reaction tube housing section 2144 is located at the front when viewed from the user's position using the automatic analyzer 1. In addition, in this embodiment, the first waste reaction tube passage 2141 is located at the rear when viewed from the user's position using the automatic analyzer 1, and the second waste reaction tube passage 2143 extends from the front to the rear, connecting the first waste reaction tube passage 2141 and the waste reaction tube housing section 2144. With this arrangement, the user can easily remove the waste reaction tube housing section 2144 into which the reaction tubes 2011 have accumulated, and also easily set up a new, empty waste reaction tube housing section 2144.

[0089] The control circuit 9 shown in Figure 1 realizes the functions corresponding to the control program stored in the memory circuit 8 by executing the program. For example, the control circuit 9 has a system control function 91 and a transport control function 92 by executing the control program. In this embodiment, the case in which the system control function 91 and the transport control function 92 are realized by a single processor is described, but it is not limited to this. 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.

[0090] The system control function 91 is a function that comprehensively controls each part of the automatic analyzer 1 based on input information received from the input interface 5. For example, in the system control function 91, the control circuit 9 controls the drive mechanism 4 and the analysis mechanism 2, thereby controlling the sample dispensing arm 206 and the reagent dispensing arm 208 to dispense samples and reagents into the reaction tube 2011, and also controls the analysis circuit 3 to perform analysis according to the test items.

[0091] The transport control function 92 controls the vertical movement and horizontal rotation of the reaction tube transport arm 2121 of the reaction tube transport unit 212 by controlling the analysis mechanism 2 and the drive mechanism 4. Specifically, the transport control function 92 controls the reaction tube transport arm 2121 to move the gripping mechanism 2122 to the reaction tube installation position or the reaction tube disposal position, and controls the reaction tube transport arm 2121 to move the gripping mechanism 2122 up and down at the reaction tube installation position or the reaction tube disposal position.

[0092] Furthermore, the system control function 91 and the transport control function 92 shown in Figure 1 constitute the system control unit and the transport control unit, respectively, in this embodiment.

[0093] Next, the reaction tube disposal process will be described with reference to Figure 20. Figure 20 is a flowchart illustrating the contents of the reaction tube disposal process performed by the automatic analyzer 1 according to this embodiment. In this reaction tube disposal process, the reaction tube 2011, after measurement has been completed, is disposed of in the disposal unit 214. For example, this reaction tube disposal process is performed when the measurement of the mixed liquid in the reaction tube 2011 is completed.

[0094] As shown in Figure 20, first, the automatic analyzer 1 moves the gripping mechanism 2122 of the reaction tube transport unit 212 to the reaction tube installation position (step S11). This process of moving to the reaction disk 201 is realized by the transport control function 92 in the control circuit 9. Specifically, the automatic analyzer 1 controls the reaction tube transport arm 2121 of the reaction tube transport unit 212 to move the gripping mechanism 2122 of the reaction tube transport unit 212 to the reaction tube installation position on the reaction disk 201.

[0095] Next, as shown in Figure 20, the automatic analyzer 1 grasps the reaction tube 2011 (step S13). This process of grasping the reaction tube 2011 is realized by the transport control function 92 in the control circuit 9. Specifically, at the reaction tube installation position, the automatic analyzer 1 lowers the reaction tube transport arm 2121 and uses the grasping mechanism 2122 to grasp the reaction tube 2011, which has been measured and is placed on the reaction disk 201.

[0096] Figure 21 shows how the gripping mechanism 2122 grips the reaction tube 2011, which is placed at the reaction tube installation position, in the automatic analyzer 1 according to this embodiment. As shown in Figure 21, the transport control function 92 controls the reaction tube transport arm 2121 at the reaction tube installation position to lower the gripping mechanism 2122. The transport control function 92 then uses a pair of claws 2122_1 of the gripping mechanism 2122 to grip the flange portion 2011_1 of the reaction tube 2011 after measurement has been completed.

[0097] Next, as shown in Figure 20, the automatic analyzer 1 moves the gripping mechanism 2122 of the reaction tube transport unit 212 to the reaction tube disposal position (step S15). This process of moving the reaction tube transport unit 212 to the reaction tube disposal position is realized by the transport control function 92 in the control circuit 9. Specifically, the automatic analyzer 1 controls the reaction tube transport arm 2121 of the reaction tube transport unit 212 to move the reaction tube 2011, which has been gripped by the gripping mechanism 2122 and whose measurement has been completed, to the reaction tube disposal position.

[0098] Figure 22 shows the automatic analyzer 1 according to this embodiment, after the reaction tube 2011 has been moved to the reaction tube disposal position. As shown in Figure 22, the transport control function 92 controls the reaction tube transport arm 2121 of the reaction tube transport unit 212 to move the reaction tube 2011, after measurement has been completed, from the reaction tube installation position to above the disposal port 2141_1 of the first disposal reaction tube passage 2141, which is the reaction tube disposal position.

[0099] Next, as shown in Figure 20, the automatic analyzer 1 discards the reaction tube 2011 (step S17). This discarding of the reaction tube 2011 is achieved by the transport control function 92 in the control circuit 9. Specifically, at the reaction tube discard position, the automatic analyzer 1 lowers the reaction tube transport arm 2121 of the reaction tube transport unit 212, causing the opening / closing mechanism 213 to open a pair of claws 2122_1, thereby discarding the reaction tube 2011, which has finished being measured, into the first discard reaction tube passage 2141.

[0100] More specifically, if the reaction tube 2011 is not attached to the pair of claws 2122_1 and is not partially supported by the pair of claws 2122_1, the automatic analyzer 1 will release the reaction tube 2011 from the pair of claws 2122_1 by opening the pair of claws 2122_1 to a size greater than the flange portion 2011_1 of the reaction tube 2011, and the reaction tube 2011 can be disposed of into the first waste reaction tube passage 2141. Furthermore, even if the reaction tube 2011 is partially supported by a pair of claws 2122_1, such as by sticking to them, the automatic analyzer 1 can detach the reaction tube 2011 from the pair of claws 2122_1 and discard it into the first waste reaction tube passage 2141 by bringing the reaction tube 2011, which is partially supported by the pair of claws 2122_1, into contact with the wall 2142 before the pair of claws 2122_1 fully open.

[0101] Then, by performing step S17, the reaction tube disposal process is terminated.

[0102] As described above, according to the automatic analyzer 1 of this embodiment, if the reaction tube 2011 is partially supported by a pair of claws 2122_1, and the reaction tube 2011 gripped by the pair of claws 2122_1 of the gripping mechanism 2122 cannot be discarded even though the pair of claws 2122_1 has opened, the automatic analyzer 1 can detach the reaction tube 2011 from the pair of claws 2122_1 and discard it into the first discard reaction tube passage 2141 by bringing the reaction tube 2011, which is partially supported by the pair of claws 2122_1, into contact with the wall portion 2142 before the pair of claws 2122_1 fully opens, thereby reducing the downtime of the automatic analyzer. In other words, in this embodiment, a plate-shaped member 2142a is provided inside the first waste reaction tube passage 2141 as the wall portion 2142, and by bringing the reaction tube 2011, which is partially supported by the pair of claw portions 2122_1, into contact with the plate-shaped member 2142a before the pair of claw portions 2122_1 fully open, the reaction tube 2011, which is partially supported by the pair of claw portions 2122_1, can be detached from the pair of claw portions 2122_1 and discarded into the first waste reaction tube passage 2141. As a result, the automatic analyzer 1 can prevent operational errors of the reaction tube transport unit 212 caused by the reaction tube 2011 not being discarded being gripped again, and can prevent the scattering of reaction tubes 2011 into the device after measurement is complete.

[0103] In the reaction tube disposal process according to the first embodiment described above, the example given was the disposal of a reaction tube 2011 that has been installed at the reaction tube installation position of the reaction disk 201 and has finished measurement into the disposal port 2141_1. However, the reaction tubes 2011 to be disposed of at the reaction tube disposal position are not limited to reaction tubes 2011 that have finished measurement. For example, if a defective product is found among the empty reaction tubes 2011 supplied by the reaction tube supply unit 211, the automatic analyzer 1 may control the reaction tube transport arm 2121 to transport the defective empty reaction tube 2011 from the reaction tube supply position to the reaction tube disposal position, and dispose of the defective empty reaction tube 2011 into the first disposal reaction tube passage 2141.

[0104] [Variation 1] In the automatic analyzer 1 according to the first embodiment described above, the plate-shaped member 2142a, which is provided inside the waste port 2141_1 and extends downward from the waste reaction tube first passage 2141, may have a tapered shape that widens downward from the waste reaction tube first passage 2141.

[0105] Figure 23 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the wall portion 2142 and the process by which the reaction tube 2011 is discarded into the waste reaction tube first passage 2141 in the automated analyzer 1 according to Modification 1, and corresponds to Figure 13 described above. As shown in Figure 23, in the automated analyzer 1 according to Modification 1, the wall portion 2142 is a plate-shaped member 2142a provided inside the waste reaction tube first passage 2141 and extending downward from the waste reaction tube first passage 2141, and the plate-shaped member 2142a has a tapered shape that widens downward from the waste reaction tube first passage 2141.

[0106] As described above, in the automated analyzer 1 according to this modified example, the wall portion 2142 is a plate-shaped member 2142a provided inside the waste reaction tube first passage 2141 and extending downward from the waste reaction tube first passage 2141. The plate-shaped member 2142a has a tapered shape that widens downward from the waste reaction tube first passage. Therefore, by bringing the reaction tube 2011, which is partially supported by a pair of claw portions 2122_1, into contact with the plate-shaped member 2142a, the reaction tube 2011, which is partially supported by a pair of claw portions 2122_1, can be detached from the pair of claw portions 2122_1 and disposed of into the waste reaction tube first passage 2141. At the same time, the possibility of the reaction tube 2011 coming into contact with the plate-shaped member 2142a, which is the wall portion 2142, after it has been disposed of into the waste reaction tube first passage 2141 can be reduced. Therefore, the reaction tube 2011 discarded into the first waste reaction tube passage 2141 is discharged into the second waste reaction tube passage 2143 without losing momentum, and the discarded reaction tube 2011 can be stored in the waste reaction tube housing section 2144 without getting stuck in the second waste reaction tube passage 2143. In other words, in the automatic analyzer 1 according to this modified example, the possibility of the discarded reaction tube 2011 becoming clogged inside the second waste reaction tube passage 2143 can be reduced.

[0107] [Variation 2] In the automatic analyzer 1 according to the first embodiment described above, instead of the plate-shaped member 2142a extending downward from the waste reaction tube first passage 2141, which is provided inside the waste port 2141_1, the inner side wall of the waste reaction tube first passage 2141 may be made into a wall portion 2142 that contacts the reaction tube 2011, which is partially supported by a pair of claw portions 2122_1.

[0108] Figure 24 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the wall portion 2142 and the process by which the reaction tube 2011 is discarded into the waste reaction tube first passage 2141 in the automated analyzer 1 according to Modified Example 2, and corresponds to Figure 13 described above. As shown in Figure 24, in the automated analyzer 1 according to Modified Example 2, the wall portion 2142 is the inner side wall 2142b of the waste reaction tube first passage 2141. That is, in the automated analyzer 1 according to Modified Example 1, the width of the inner side wall 2142b of the waste reaction tube first passage 2141 is narrowed compared to the waste reaction tube first passage 2141 according to the first embodiment described above, so that the reaction tube 2011, which is partially supported by the pair of claw portions 2122_1, can contact the inner side wall 2142b of the waste reaction tube first passage 2141 before the pair of claw portions 2122_1 fully open. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 24, the corner 2142b_1 where the inner side wall 2142b of the first waste reaction tube passage 2141 intersects with the upper part of the first waste reaction tube passage 2141 has a rounded shape.

[0109] As described above, in the automated analyzer 1 according to Modified Example 2, the wall portion 2142 is the inner side wall 2142b of the first waste reaction tube passage 2141. In the event that the reaction tube 2011 is partially supported by a pair of claw portions 2122_1, and the reaction tube 2011 cannot be discarded even though the pair of claw portions 2122_1 has opened, the reaction tube 2011, which is partially supported by the pair of claw portions 2122_1, is brought into contact with the inner side wall 2142b of the first waste reaction tube passage 2141, thereby releasing the reaction tube 2011 from the pair of claw portions 2122_1 and allowing it to be discarded into the first waste reaction tube passage 2141. This reduces the downtime of the automated analyzer 1. In other words, in the automated analyzer 1 according to this modified example, the reaction tube 2011, which is partially supported by a pair of claws 2122_1, can be detached from the pair of claws 2122_1 and disposed of in the first waste reaction tube passage 2141 without providing additional parts such as a plate-shaped member 2142a to the first waste reaction tube passage 2141. This reduces costs while preventing operational errors in the reaction tube transport unit 212 caused by re-grabbing reaction tubes 2011 that have not been disposed of, and also prevents the scattering of reaction tubes 2011 into the apparatus after measurement is complete.

[0110] Furthermore, the corner 2142b_1 where the inner side wall 2142b of the waste reaction tube first passage 2141 intersects with the upper part of the waste reaction tube first passage 2141 has a rounded shape, so that the flange portion 2011_1 of the reaction tube 2011 does not get caught on the corner 2142b_1, and the reaction tube 2011 can be disposed of into the waste reaction tube first passage 2141.

[0111] In the modified example described above, the inner side wall 2142b of the first waste reaction tube passage 2141 may have a tapered shape that widens downward toward the first waste reaction tube passage 2141. By having the inner side wall 2142b of the first waste reaction tube passage 2141 have a tapered shape that widens downward toward the first waste reaction tube passage 2141, the possibility of the reaction tube 2011 coming into contact with the wall portion 2142 after being discarded into the first waste reaction tube passage 2141 can be reduced, similar to the modified example 1. As a result, the reaction tube 2011 can be discharged into the second waste reaction tube passage 2143 without losing momentum, and can be stored in the waste reaction tube housing portion 2144 without getting stuck in the second waste reaction tube passage 2143, thereby reducing the possibility of clogging in the second waste reaction tube passage 2143.

[0112] [Second Embodiment] In the automatic analyzer 1 according to the first embodiment described above, the wall portion 2142 was a plate-shaped member 2142a that extended downwards from the first waste reaction tube passage 2141, which was provided inside the waste port 2141_1. However, in the second embodiment, the wall portion 2142 is composed of a protrusion. The differences from the first embodiment described above will be explained below.

[0113] Figure 25 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the wall portion 2142 and the process by which the reaction tube 2011 is discarded into the waste reaction tube first passage 2141 in the automatic analyzer 1 according to the second embodiment, and corresponds to Figure 13 described above. As shown in Figure 25, in the automatic analyzer 1 according to this embodiment, the wall portion 2142 is composed of protrusions 2142c. As shown in Figure 25, these protrusions 2142c are provided on the left and right inner side walls of the waste reaction tube first passage 2141, and the protrusions 2142c have inclined surfaces that are inclined toward the inside and downward of the waste reaction tube first passage 2141.

[0114] As described above, according to the automatic analyzer 1 of this embodiment, the wall portion 2142 is made of projections 2142c provided on the left and right inner side walls of the waste reaction tube first passage 2141. In the event that the reaction tube 2011 is partially supported by a pair of claw portions 2122_1, and the reaction tube 2011 cannot be discarded even though the pair of claw portions 2122_1 has opened, the reaction tube 2011, which is partially supported by the pair of claw portions 2122_1, can be brought into contact with the projections 2142c, thereby releasing the reaction tube 2011 from the pair of claw portions 2122_1 and discarding it into the waste reaction tube first passage 2141. This reduces the downtime of the automatic analyzer. In other words, in the automatic analyzer 1 according to this embodiment, a projection 2142c is provided inside the first waste reaction tube passage 2141, and by bringing the reaction tube 2011, which is partially supported by the pair of claws 2122_1, into contact with the projection 2142c before the pair of claws 2122_1 fully open, the reaction tube 2011, which is partially supported by the pair of claws 2122_1, can be detached from the pair of claws 2122_1 and discarded into the first waste reaction tube passage 2141. As a result, the automatic analyzer 1 can prevent operational errors of the reaction tube transport unit 212 caused by the reaction tube 2011 not being discarded being gripped again, and prevent the scattering of reaction tubes 2011 into the device after measurement is complete.

[0115] Furthermore, since the projection 2142c has an inclined surface that slopes inward and downward toward the inside and downward of the waste reaction tube first passage 2141, the flange portion 2011_1 of the reaction tube 2011 does not get caught on the projection 2142c, and the reaction tube 2011 can be disposed of into the waste reaction tube first passage 2141.

[0116] [Third Embodiment] In addition to the automatic analyzer 1 according to the first and second embodiments described above, this system detects when the reaction tube 2011 comes into contact with the wall portion 2142 and issues a warning if the detected result meets predetermined conditions. The differences from the first and second embodiments described above will be explained below.

[0117] Figure 26 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the automatic analyzer 1 according to the third embodiment, and corresponds to Figure 1 in the first embodiment described above. As shown in Figure 26, the automatic analyzer 1 in this embodiment is configured by adding a notification function 93 to the control circuit 9 compared to the automatic analyzer 1 according to the first embodiment described above. The notification function 93 corresponds to the notification unit in this embodiment. Furthermore, the configuration and functions other than the notification function 93 are the same as in Figure 1 in the first embodiment described above, so their explanation is omitted.

[0118] Notification function 93 is a function that issues a warning when the result detected by the sensor meets predetermined conditions. Specifically, notification function 93 is a function that notifies the user or requests regular maintenance or parts replacement from the manufacturer or other relevant parties when the sensor detects that the reaction tube 2011 has come into contact with the wall portion 2142 and the result detected by the sensor meets predetermined conditions. The predetermined conditions are, for example, when the frequency of occurrence of the number of times the reaction tube 2011 has come into contact with the wall portion 2142 within a certain period, that is, the number of times the sensor has detected contact within a certain period, reaches a predetermined frequency.

[0119] Figure 27 is a diagram illustrating an example of the sensor installation position and the process by which the reaction tube 2011 is discarded into the first waste reaction tube passage 2141 in the automated analyzer 1 according to the third embodiment, and corresponds to Figure 13 in the first embodiment described above. As shown in Figure 27, the sensor 215 is provided, for example, at a position close to the waste port 2141_1 of the right wall portion 2142. The sensor 215 according to this embodiment is a sensor that detects when the reaction tube 2011 comes into contact with the wall portion 2142, and is composed of various sensors such as a pressure sensor or an optical sensor.

[0120] In the example shown in Figure 27, the sensor 215 is provided on the right wall 2142, but the location where the sensor 215 is provided is not limited to the right wall 2142. That is, the location where the sensor 215 is provided is arbitrary; for example, it may be provided on the left wall 2142, or on both the left and right walls 2142.

[0121] Figure 28 is a flowchart illustrating the contents of the notification process performed by the automated analyzer 1 according to the third embodiment. In this notification process, contact between the reaction tube 2011 and the wall portion 2142 is detected, and a warning is issued if the detected result meets predetermined conditions. For example, this notification process is performed at the time it is detected that the reaction tube 2011 has come into contact with the wall portion 2142.

[0122] As shown in Figure 28, first, the automatic analyzer 1 determines whether or not it has detected that the reaction tube 2011 has come into contact with the wall portion 2142 (step S21). This process of determining whether or not contact has been detected is realized by the notification function 93 in the control circuit 9. Specifically, the automatic analyzer 1 determines whether or not the reaction tube 2011 has come into contact with the wall portion 2142 using a sensor 215 provided on the wall portion 2142. If the automatic analyzer 1 has not detected that the reaction tube 2011 has come into contact with the wall portion 2142 (step S21: No), the automatic analyzer 1 waits by repeating step S21 until it detects that the reaction tube 2011 has come into contact with the wall portion 2142.

[0123] On the other hand, if step S21 detects that the reaction tube 2011 has come into contact with the wall portion 2142 (step S21: Yes), the automatic analyzer 1 determines whether or not a predetermined condition has been met (step S23). This process of determining whether or not a predetermined condition has been met is realized by the notification function 93 in the control circuit 9. Specifically, the automatic analyzer 1 determines whether or not the result detected by the sensor 215 has met a predetermined condition (step S23). If the predetermined condition has not been met (step S23: No), the automatic analyzer 1 waits by repeating steps S21 and S23 until it detects that the reaction tube 2011 has come into contact with the wall portion 2142 and the predetermined condition has been met.

[0124] On the other hand, if a predetermined condition is met (step S23: Yes), the automatic analyzer 1 issues a warning (step S25). This warning notification process is implemented by the notification function 93 in the control circuit 9. Specifically, the automatic analyzer 1 notifies the user via the output interface 6 that the result detected by the sensor 215 has met a predetermined condition. The automatic analyzer 1 also notifies relevant parties, such as the manufacturer, via the communication interface 7 that it is time for regular maintenance or parts replacement.

[0125] Then, after the process of notifying the warning in step S25 is completed, the automatic analyzer 1 returns to step S21 and repeats the process from S21.

[0126] As described above, the automatic analyzer 1 according to this embodiment is equipped with a sensor 215 that detects when the reaction tube 2011 comes into contact with the wall portion 2142, and when the result detected by the sensor 215 satisfies predetermined conditions, a warning is sent to a notification recipient such as the user or manufacturer, thereby reducing the downtime of the automatic analyzer. In other words, the automatic analyzer 1 sends a warning to a notification recipient such as the user or manufacturer when the reaction tube 2011 frequently comes into contact with the wall portion 2142, allowing the user or manufacturer to perform maintenance or replace parts. As a result, the automatic analyzer 1 can prevent operational errors of the reaction tube transport unit 212 caused by the reaction tube 2011 not being discarded being gripped again, and prevent the scattering of reaction tubes 2011 after measurement has finished into the device.

[0127] [Other modifications according to the first to third embodiments] Although the automated analyzer 1 of the first to third embodiments described above has been described as an automated analyzer for performing blood coagulation analysis tests, the embodiments are not limited to this. That is, the first to third embodiments can also be applied to other automated analyzers that require the disposal of reaction tube 2011, such as automated analyzers for performing biochemical tests.

[0128] In the above explanation, the term "processor" refers to circuits such as CPUs (Central Processing Units), GPUs (Graphics Processing Units), Application Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs), and Programmable Logic Devices (e.g., Simple Programmable Logic Devices (SPLDs), Complex Programmable Logic Devices (CPLDs), and Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs)). A processor functions by reading and executing a program stored in a memory circuit. Alternatively, instead of storing the program in a memory circuit, the processor may be configured to directly incorporate the program into its circuitry. In this case, the processor functions by reading and executing the program incorporated into the circuitry. Furthermore, a processor is not limited to being a single circuit; it may also be composed of multiple independent circuits combined to form a single processor and achieve its functions. Additionally, multiple components may be integrated into a single processor to achieve its functions.

[0129] Although several embodiments have been described above, these embodiments are presented only as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. The novel apparatus and methods described herein can be implemented in a variety of other forms. Furthermore, various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made to the embodiments of the apparatus and methods described herein, without departing from the spirit of the invention. The appended claims and equivalents are intended to include such embodiments and modifications that are included in the scope and spirit of the invention. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0130] 1...Automatic analyzer, 2...Analysis mechanism, 3...Analysis circuit, 4...Drive mechanism, 5...Input interface, 6...Output interface, 7...Communication interface, 8...Memory circuit, 9...Control circuit, 91...System control function, 92...Transportation control function

Claims

1. A gripping mechanism comprising a plurality of contact parts for gripping a reaction tube, wherein the gripping mechanism grips the reaction tube when the plurality of contact parts close and releases the reaction tube when the plurality of contact parts open, The reaction tube is discarded at the reaction tube disposal location where the reaction tube is discarded, and the gripping mechanism includes a wall portion provided at a position that contacts the reaction tube, which is partially supported by the plurality of contact portions, before the plurality of contact portions of the gripping mechanism fully open, The plurality of contact portions include a pair of claw portions, Each of the pair of claw portions is provided with a shaft protruding from the pair of claw portions, The device further comprises a transport drive unit that raises and lowers the gripping mechanism, and an opening and closing mechanism that opens and closes the pair of claws. The opening and closing mechanism includes a guide portion that guides the shaft, The opening and closing mechanism is an automatic analyzer in which, at the reaction tube disposal position, the gripping mechanism is lowered by the transport drive unit, causing the shaft to move along the guide unit, thereby opening the pair of claws.

2. A gripping mechanism comprising a plurality of contact parts for gripping a reaction tube, wherein the plurality of contact parts grip the reaction tube when they close and the plurality of contact parts release the reaction tube when they open, At the reaction tube disposal position where the reaction tube is discarded, a wall portion is provided at a position that contacts the reaction tube, which is partially supported by the plurality of contact portions of the gripping mechanism, before the plurality of contact portions of the gripping mechanism fully open, The reaction tube is disposed of in a waste section, The plurality of contact portions include a pair of claw portions, The device further comprises a transport drive unit that raises and lowers the gripping mechanism, and an opening and closing mechanism that opens and closes the pair of claws. The opening and closing mechanism, when the conveying drive unit lowers the gripping mechanism at the reaction tube disposal position, opens the pair of claws. When the lower end of the reaction tube being lowered by the transport drive unit reaches a position below the waste port, which is the opening of the waste unit, the pair of claws begin to open due to the opening / closing mechanism. The wall portion is composed of protrusions having inclined surfaces that slope inward and downward toward the inside and downward of the waste portion, in an automated analyzer.

3. A gripping mechanism comprising a plurality of contact parts for gripping a reaction tube, wherein the plurality of contact parts grip the reaction tube when they close and the plurality of contact parts release the reaction tube when they open, At the reaction tube disposal position where the reaction tube is discarded, a wall portion is provided at a position that contacts the reaction tube, which is partially supported by the plurality of contact portions of the gripping mechanism, before the plurality of contact portions of the gripping mechanism fully open, The reaction tube is disposed of in a waste section, The wall portion is composed of protrusions having inclined surfaces that slope inward and downward toward the inside and downward of the waste portion, in an automated analyzer.

4. A gripping mechanism comprising a plurality of contact parts for gripping a reaction tube, wherein the plurality of contact parts grip the reaction tube when they close and the plurality of contact parts release the reaction tube when they open, The reaction tube is discarded at the reaction tube disposal location where the reaction tube is discarded, and the gripping mechanism includes a wall portion provided at a position that contacts the reaction tube, which is partially supported by the plurality of contact portions, before the plurality of contact portions of the gripping mechanism fully open, The position of the wall portion is such that the reaction tube comes into contact with the wall portion after the contact portion begins to open, causing the reaction tube to detach from the contact portion, in an automated analyzer.

5. The automatic analyzer according to claim 4, wherein the position of the wall portion is the position in which the reaction tube contacts the wall portion when it moves in the direction that opens the contact portion after the contact portion has started to open.

6. The plurality of contact portions include a pair of claw portions, The device further comprises a transport drive unit that raises and lowers the gripping mechanism, and an opening and closing mechanism that opens and closes the pair of claws. The automatic analyzer according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the opening and closing mechanism opens the pair of claws when the conveying drive unit lowers the gripping mechanism at the reaction tube disposal position.

7. Each of the pair of claw portions is provided with a shaft protruding from the pair of claw portions, The opening and closing mechanism includes a guide portion that guides the shaft, The automatic analyzer according to claim 2 or claim 6, wherein the opening and closing mechanism, when the gripping mechanism is lowered by the transport drive unit at the reaction tube disposal position, causes the shaft to move along the guide portion, thereby opening the pair of claw portions.

8. The automatic analyzer according to claim 1 or claim 7, wherein the guide portion causes the pair of claw portions to open by narrowing the distance between the shafts in the pair of claw portions.

9. The reaction tube further comprises a waste section into which the waste is disposed of. The automatic analyzer according to claim 6, wherein when the lower end of the reaction tube being lowered by the transport drive unit reaches a position below the waste port, which is the opening of the waste unit, the pair of claws begin to open by the opening / closing mechanism.

10. The automatic analyzer according to claim 9, wherein when the side portion of the reaction tube being lowered by the transport drive unit passes the waste port, the opening of the pair of claws is smaller than the width of the waste port.

11. The automatic analyzer according to claim 9 or claim 10, wherein the wall portion is a downwardly extending plate-shaped member provided inside the waste portion.

12. The automatic analyzer according to claim 9 or claim 10, wherein the wall portion is the inner side wall of the waste portion.

13. The automatic analyzer according to any one of claims 1 to 12, further comprising a sensor for detecting when the reaction tube comes into contact with the wall.

14. The automatic analyzer according to claim 13, further comprising a notification unit that notifies a warning when the result detected by the sensor meets predetermined conditions.

15. A gripping mechanism comprising a plurality of contact parts for gripping a reaction tube, wherein the plurality of contact parts grip the reaction tube when they close and the plurality of contact parts release the reaction tube when they open, A method for disposing of a reaction tube in an automatic analyzer, comprising: a wall portion provided at a reaction tube disposal position where the reaction tube is discarded, which contacts the reaction tube, partially supported by the plurality of contact portions of the gripping mechanism, before the plurality of contact portions of the gripping mechanism fully open; The process of opening the contact portion at the reaction tube disposal location, After the contact portion begins to open, the reaction tube is brought into contact with the wall portion to remove the reaction tube from the contact portion; A method for disposing of reaction tubes in an automated analyzer, comprising the following components.

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