Analysis System

Abstract

To provide an analysis system that can measure a sample in a proper condition.SOLUTION: In the analysis system: a detector detects a sample supplied from a sample supply unit; a calibration curve acquisition unit 3 acquires a calibration curve indicative of a relationship between concentration of a reference sample and detection intensity of the reference sample; a determination unit 5 determines whether or not detection intensity of the sample outputted by the detector is larger than a set threshold; when the detection intensity of the sample is larger than the threshold, a determination unit 6 determines a dilution rate of the sample on the basis of the detection intensity and the threshold; when the detection intensity of the sample is equal to or less than the threshold, a processing unit quantifies concentration of the sample on the basis of the detection intensity and the calibration curve acquired by the calibration curve acquisition unit 3; and the sample supply unit dilutes the sample at the dilution rate determined by the determination unit 6, and then supplies the diluted sample.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an analysis system.

Background Art

[0002] In the measurement of a sample using an analyzer such as a chromatograph, a calibration curve showing the relationship between the concentration of a standard sample and the detection intensity of the standard sample is generated by detecting a plurality of samples (standard samples) having known concentrations. In addition, a sample (unknown sample) having an unknown concentration is detected. Based on the calibration curve generated using the standard sample and the detection intensity of the unknown sample, the concentration of the unknown sample is quantified (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] Measurement of a sample in an analyzer requires a relatively long working time, so the burden on the measurement staff is large. Therefore, in recent years, in the analysis industry, it has become more common to have simple workers such as part-time workers perform the measurement. In this case, the administrator of the analyzer can analyze the sample by examining the measurement results obtained by the analysis staff without operating the analyzer.

[0005] However, since the measurement staff do not have sufficient knowledge about the analyzer, they are often unable to determine whether the sample has been measured under appropriate conditions in the analyzer. If the sample is not measured under appropriate conditions, the sample cannot be accurately analyzed. Therefore, there is a need to develop an analysis system that can measure a sample under appropriate conditions.

[0006] The objective of the present invention is to provide an analytical system capable of measuring samples under appropriate conditions. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] One aspect of the present invention includes a sample supply unit that supplies a sample, a detection unit that detects the sample supplied by the sample supply unit and outputs the detection intensity of the sample, and the relationship between the concentration of a standard sample and the detection intensity of the standard sample. , and the maximum detection intensity of the standard sample A calibration curve acquisition unit acquires a calibration curve showing the results, and a determination unit determines whether the detection intensity of the sample output by the detection unit is greater than a set threshold, and if the detection intensity of the sample is greater than the threshold, the detection intensity against The aforementioned threshold The ratio Sample dilution ratio as A determination unit that makes a determination, and a processing unit that, when the detection intensity of the sample is below the threshold, quantifies the concentration of the sample based on the detection intensity and the calibration curve obtained by the calibration curve acquisition unit. The setting unit sets the threshold value based on the maximum detection intensity of the standard sample in the calibration curve acquired by the calibration curve acquisition unit. The present invention relates to an analytical system comprising the following: the sample supply unit dilutes the sample at the dilution ratio determined by the determination unit and supplies it. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present invention, a sample can be measured under appropriate conditions. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] This diagram shows the configuration of an analysis system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] This diagram shows the configuration of the analysis and control unit shown in Figure 1. [Figure 3] This figure shows an example of a calibration curve. [Figure 4] This flowchart shows an example of an algorithm for quantitative analysis of a sample in a reference example. [Figure 5] Figure 2 is a flowchart showing an example of sample quantification processing by the analytical control unit. [Figure 6]Figure 2 is a flowchart showing an example of sample quantification processing by the analytical control unit. [Figure 7] This diagram shows the configuration of the analysis control unit in a modified example. [Figure 8] This flowchart shows an example of the quantitative analysis of a sample in a modified case. [Figure 9] This flowchart shows an example of the quantitative analysis of a sample in a modified case. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] (1) Configuration of the analysis system Hereinafter, an analysis system according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Figure 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of an analysis system according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in Figure 1, the analysis system 300 comprises a control device 100 and an analysis device 200.

[0011] The control device 100 is, for example, a personal computer and consists of a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 110, RAM (Random Access Memory) 120, ROM (Read-Only Memory) 130, storage unit 140, operation unit 150, display unit 160, input / output interface (I / F) 170, and bus 180. The CPU 110, RAM 120, ROM 130, storage unit 140, operation unit 150, display unit 160, and input / output interface (I / F) 170 are connected to the bus 180.

[0012] RAM120 consists of, for example, volatile memory and is used as a workspace for CPU110. ROM130 consists of, for example, non-volatile memory. System programs are stored in ROM130. The analysis control unit 10 is composed of CPU110, RAM120, and ROM130. Details of the analysis control unit 10 will be described later.

[0013] The storage unit 140 includes a storage medium such as a hard disk or a semiconductor memory. The storage unit 140 stores a batch file indicating the analysis sequence of the sample and a control program of the analyzer 200 and the like. The batch file or the control program and the like may be stored in a storage medium different from the storage unit 140. By the CPU 110 executing the control program stored in the storage unit 140 and the like on the RAM 120, the quantification process of the sample according to the batch file is performed.

[0014] The operation unit 150 is an input device such as a keyboard, a mouse, or a touch panel. The display unit 160 is a display device such as a liquid crystal display unit. The user of the analysis system 300 can make various specifications to the control device 100 by operating the operation unit 150. The display unit 160 can display analysis results such as a calibration curve or a chromatogram obtained by measuring the sample. The input / output I / F 170 is connected to the analyzer 200.

[0015] In this example, the analyzer 200 is a liquid chromatograph and includes a mobile phase supply unit 210, a sample supply unit 220, a separation column 230, and a detector 240. The mobile phase supply unit 210 includes, for example, a liquid delivery pump and pumps a mobile phase such as an aqueous solution or an organic solvent. The mobile phase supply unit 210 may include a plurality of liquid delivery pumps and a gradient mixer and perform gradient liquid delivery of the mobile phase.

[0016] The sample supply unit 220 is, for example, an autosampler and supplies the sample to the separation column 230 together with the mobile phase supplied by the mobile phase supply unit 210. The sample includes a standard sample having a known concentration and an unknown sample having an unknown concentration. Further, when the dilution rate of the sample is set in the sample supply unit 220, the sample supply unit 220 dilutes the sample at the set dilution rate using a diluent having the same components as the mobile phase when supplying the sample.

[0017] The separation column 230 is housed inside a column thermostat (not shown) and adjusted to a predetermined constant temperature. The separation column 230 separates the introduced sample into its components based on differences in chemical properties or composition. The detector 240 is, for example, a PDA (photodiode array) or a UV (ultraviolet) detector. The detector 240 may also be a mass spectrometer. The detector 240 detects the components of the sample separated by the separation column 230 and outputs the detection intensity.

[0018] (2) Configuration of the control device Figure 2 shows the configuration of the analysis control unit 10 in Figure 1. As shown in Figure 2, the analysis control unit 10 includes, as functional units, a batch acquisition unit 1, a measurement execution unit 2, a calibration curve acquisition unit 3, a setting unit 4, a determination unit 5, a decision unit 6, and a processing unit 7. The CPU 110 in Figure 1 executes a control program stored in the memory unit 140, etc., thereby realizing the functional units of the analysis control unit 10. Some or all of the functional units of the analysis control unit 10 may be realized by hardware such as electronic circuits.

[0019] The batch acquisition unit 1 acquires batch files stored in the storage unit 140, etc., based on a specification from the operation unit 150. The user can specify the desired batch file to be used for measuring the sample to the batch acquisition unit 1 by operating the operation unit 150. The measurement execution unit 2 controls the operation of the mobile phase supply unit 210, sample supply unit 220, separation column 230 (column thermostat) and detector 240 of the analyzer 200 according to the batch file acquired by the batch acquisition unit 1.

[0020] The calibration curve acquisition unit 3 acquires a calibration curve showing the relationship between the concentration of a standard sample and the detection intensity of the standard sample. Figure 3 shows an example of a calibration curve. In Figure 3, the horizontal axis represents the concentration of the standard sample, and the vertical axis represents the detection intensity of the standard sample. In this example, in the analyzer 200, multiple standard samples are sequentially detected by the detector 240 according to the analysis sequence indicated by the batch file. The calibration curve acquisition unit 3 generates the calibration curve shown in Figure 3 based on the detection intensity of each standard sample output from the detector 240 and the concentration of each standard sample.

[0021] The setting unit 4 sets a threshold for the detection intensity of the sample. In this example, the setting unit 4 sets the threshold based on the maximum value of the detection intensity of the standard sample in the calibration curve shown in Figure 3, which is acquired by the calibration curve acquisition unit 3. In this case, a threshold for appropriately diluting the sample can be easily set. For example, the threshold may be the maximum value of the detection intensity of the standard sample, a value that is a predetermined amount smaller than the maximum value of the detection intensity of the standard sample, or a value that is a predetermined percentage smaller than the maximum value of the detection intensity of the standard sample.

[0022] Alternatively, as shown by the dashed line in Figure 2, the setting unit 4 may accept the specification of the threshold value to be set from the operation unit 150. In this case, the user can specify any threshold value to the setting unit 4 by operating the operation unit 150. In this configuration, it is preferable that the threshold value be specified as a value that is greater than or equal to the minimum and maximum value of the detection intensity of the standard sample in the calibration curve in Figure 3 acquired by the calibration curve acquisition unit 3.

[0023] In the analyzer 200, an unknown sample is detected by the detector 240 according to the analysis sequence indicated by the batch file. The determination unit 5 acquires the detection intensity of the unknown sample output by the detector 240. The determination unit 5 also determines whether the acquired detection intensity of the unknown sample is greater than the threshold set by the setting unit 4.

[0024] If the determination unit 5 determines that the detection intensity of the unknown sample is greater than the threshold, the determination unit 6 determines the dilution ratio of the unknown sample based on the detection intensity and the threshold. In this example, the ratio of the threshold to the detection intensity of the unknown sample is determined as the dilution ratio. In this case, the unknown sample can be easily and appropriately diluted. The determination unit 6 sets the determined dilution ratio in the sample supply unit 220 of the analyzer 200. As a result, the sample supply unit 220 supplies the unknown sample diluted at the set dilution ratio.

[0025] If the determination unit 5 determines that the detection intensity of the unknown sample is below a threshold, the processing unit 7 quantifies the concentration of the unknown sample based on the detection intensity and the calibration curve acquired by the calibration curve acquisition unit 3. The processing unit 7 may also further generate a chromatogram based on the retention time of the unknown sample in the separation column 230 of the analyzer 200 and the detection intensity of the unknown sample.

[0026] (3) Reference example Figure 4 is a flowchart showing an example of a sample quantification algorithm in a reference example. Below, an example of sample quantification in a reference example will be explained using the analysis system 300 in Figure 1, the analysis control unit 10 in Figure 2, and the flowchart in Figure 4.

[0027] First, the batch acquisition unit 1 determines whether a batch file has been specified (step S1). If no batch file is specified, the batch acquisition unit 1 waits until a batch file is specified. If a batch file is specified, the batch acquisition unit 1 acquires the specified batch file from the storage unit 140, etc. (step S2). Subsequently, the analysis sequence from steps S3 to S15, indicated by the batch file acquired in step S2, is executed sequentially.

[0028] Specifically, the measurement execution unit 2 controls the operation of the analyzer 200 to measure a first standard sample having a first concentration (step S3). As a result, in the analyzer 200, the mobile phase supply unit 210 supplies the mobile phase, and the sample supply unit 220 supplies the first standard sample to the separation column 230 along with the mobile phase supplied by the mobile phase supply unit 210. The detector 240 detects the first standard sample that has passed through the separation column 230 and outputs the detection intensity.

[0029] Similarly, the measurement execution unit 2 controls the operation of the analyzer 200 to measure a second standard sample having a second concentration (step S4). The measurement execution unit 2 controls the operation of the analyzer 200 to measure a third standard sample having a third concentration (step S5). The measurement execution unit 2 controls the operation of the analyzer 200 to measure a fourth standard sample having a fourth concentration (step S6). The calibration curve acquisition unit 3 acquires the calibration curve shown in Figure 3 based on the detection intensities of the first to fourth standard samples output by the detector 240 in steps S3 to S6, and the concentrations of the first to fourth standard samples (step S7).

[0030] Next, the measurement execution unit 2 controls the operation of the analyzer 200 to measure the first unknown sample (step S8). In this case, in the analyzer 200, the mobile phase supply unit 210 supplies the mobile phase, and the sample supply unit 220 supplies the first unknown sample to the separation column 230 together with the mobile phase supplied by the mobile phase supply unit 210. The detector 240 detects the first unknown sample that has passed through the separation column 230 and outputs the detection intensity. Subsequently, the processing unit 7 quantifies the concentration of the first unknown sample based on the calibration curve obtained in step S7 and the detection intensity of the first unknown sample output by the detector 240 in step S8 (step S9).

[0031] Similarly, the measurement execution unit 2 controls the operation of the analyzer 200 to measure the second unknown sample (step S10). The processing unit 7 quantifies the concentration of the second unknown sample based on the calibration curve and the detection intensity of the second unknown sample output in step S10 (step S11).

[0032] Furthermore, the measurement execution unit 2 controls the operation of the analyzer 200 to measure the third unknown sample (step S12). The processing unit 7 quantifies the concentration of the third unknown sample based on the calibration curve and the detection intensity of the third unknown sample output in step S12 (step S13).

[0033] Furthermore, the measurement execution unit 2 controls the operation of the analyzer 200 to measure the fourth unknown sample (step S14). The processing unit 7 quantifies the concentration of the fourth unknown sample based on the calibration curve and the detection intensity of the fourth unknown sample output in step S14 (step S15), and ends the sample quantification process.

[0034] The above quantitative processing allows for the quantification of the concentrations of the first to fourth unknown samples. However, the detection intensities of the first to fourth unknown samples output in steps S8, S10, S12, and S14 are not necessarily between the minimum and maximum detection intensities of the standard sample in the calibration curve shown in Figure 3, obtained in step S7. If the detection intensities of the first to fourth unknown samples are greater than the maximum detection intensity of the standard sample, the linearity of the calibration curve cannot be guaranteed. Therefore, the concentrations of the first to fourth unknown samples cannot be accurately quantified in steps S9, S11, S13, and S15.

[0035] (4) Quantitative processing Figures 5 and 6 are flowcharts illustrating an example of sample quantification processing by the analysis control unit 10 in Figure 2. The quantification processing in Figure 5 is performed by the CPU 110 in Figure 1 executing a control program stored in the memory unit 140, etc., on the RAM 120. Below, an example of sample quantification processing in this embodiment will be described using the analysis system 300 in Figure 1, the analysis control unit 10 in Figure 2, and the flowcharts in Figures 5 and 6.

[0036] In the quantitative processing in this embodiment, first, steps S1 and S2, similar to steps S1 and S2 in Figure 4, are executed. This executes the analysis sequence from steps S3 to S15, as shown in the batch file obtained in step S2. In this embodiment, steps S7a, S8a, 8b, S10a, 10b, S12a, 12b, and S14a, 14b are executed as appropriate during the analysis sequence shown in the batch file.

[0037] Specifically, after step S2, steps S3 to S7, similar to those shown in Figure 4, are executed sequentially. After step S7, the setting unit 4 sets a threshold value for the detection intensity of the sample based on the maximum detection intensity of the standard sample in the calibration curve obtained in step S7 (step S7a). The setting unit 4 may also set a value specified by the user through the operation unit 150 as the threshold value for the detection intensity of the sample. In this case, step S7a may be executed before step S7.

[0038] Next, the measurement execution unit 2 controls the operation of the analyzer 200 to measure the first unknown sample, similar to step S8 in Figure 4 (step S8). The determination unit 5 determines whether the detection intensity of the first unknown sample output by the detector 240 in step S8 is greater than the threshold set in step S7a (step S8a).

[0039] If the detection intensity of the first unknown sample is greater than the threshold, the determination unit 6 determines the dilution ratio of the first unknown sample based on the detection intensity and the threshold (step S8b), and returns to step S8. As a result, the dilution ratio determined in step S8b is set in the sample supply unit 220 of the analyzer 200. Also in step S8, the diluted first unknown sample is measured again. The amount of sample measured at this time is the same as the amount of sample measured before dilution. Steps S8 to S8b are repeated until the detection intensity of the first unknown sample falls below the threshold.

[0040] In step S8a, if the detection intensity of the first unknown sample is below the threshold, the processing unit 7 quantifies the concentration of the first unknown sample based on the calibration curve obtained in step S7 and the detection intensity of the first unknown sample output by the detector 240 in step S8, similar to step S9 in Figure 4 (step S9).

[0041] Similarly, the measurement execution unit 2 controls the operation of the analyzer 200 to measure the second unknown sample (step S10). The determination unit 5 determines whether the detection intensity of the second unknown sample output by the detector 240 in step S10 is greater than the threshold set in step S7a (step S10a).

[0042] If the detection intensity of the second unknown sample is greater than the threshold, the determination unit 6 determines the dilution ratio of the second unknown sample based on the detection intensity and the threshold (step S10b), and returns to step S10. If the detection intensity of the second unknown sample is less than or equal to the threshold, the processing unit 7 quantifies the concentration of the second unknown sample based on the calibration curve obtained in step S7 and the detection intensity of the second unknown sample output by the detector 240 in step S10 (step S11).

[0043] The measurement execution unit 2 controls the operation of the analyzer 200 to measure the third unknown sample (step S12). The determination unit 5 determines whether the detection intensity of the third unknown sample output by the detector 240 in step S12 is greater than the threshold set in step S7a (step S12a).

[0044] If the detection intensity of the third unknown sample is greater than the threshold, the determination unit 6 determines the dilution ratio of the third unknown sample based on the detection intensity and the threshold (step S12b), and returns to step S12. If the detection intensity of the third unknown sample is less than or equal to the threshold, the processing unit 7 quantifies the concentration of the third unknown sample based on the calibration curve obtained in step S7 and the detection intensity of the third unknown sample output by the detector 240 in step S12 (step S13).

[0045] The measurement execution unit 2 controls the operation of the analyzer 200 to measure the fourth unknown sample (step S14). The determination unit 5 determines whether the detection intensity of the fourth unknown sample output by the detector 240 in step S14 is greater than the threshold set in step S7a (step S14a).

[0046] If the detection intensity of the fourth unknown sample is greater than the threshold, the determination unit 6 determines the dilution ratio of the fourth unknown sample based on the detection intensity and the threshold (step S14b), and returns to step S14. If the detection intensity of the fourth unknown sample is less than or equal to the threshold, the processing unit 7 quantifies the concentration of the fourth unknown sample based on the calibration curve obtained in step S7 and the detection intensity of the fourth unknown sample output by the detector 240 in step S14 (step S15), and terminates the sample quantification process.

[0047] (5) Variant Figure 7 shows the configuration of the analysis control unit 10 in a modified example. As shown in Figure 7, the analysis control unit 10 further includes a batch generation unit 8 as a functional unit. The batch generation unit 8 generates a new batch file indicating the analysis sequence of an unknown sample if the determination unit 5 determines that the detection intensity of any unknown sample in the analysis sequence indicated by the batch file is greater than a threshold. The batch file newly generated by the batch generation unit 8 is linked to the batch file acquired by the batch acquisition unit 1.

[0048] The measurement execution unit 2 controls the operation of the analyzer 200 according to the analysis sequence indicated by the batch file acquired by the batch acquisition unit 1. After the completion of the analysis sequence, if a new batch file is generated by the batch generation unit 8, the measurement execution unit 2 controls the operation of the analyzer 200 according to the newly generated batch file.

[0049] Figures 8 and 9 are flowcharts illustrating an example of sample quantification in a modified example. Below, an example of sample quantification in a modified example will be explained using the analysis system 300 in Figure 1, the analysis control unit 10 in Figure 7, and the flowcharts in Figures 8 and 9.

[0050] In the quantitative processing in the modified example, steps S1 and S2, similar to those in Figure 4, are first executed. This executes the analysis sequence from steps S3 to S15, as shown in the batch file obtained in step S2. In this modified example, after the completion of the analysis sequence shown in the batch file obtained in step S2, the following processing from step S16 onwards is executed.

[0051] Specifically, after step S15, the setting unit 4 sets a threshold value for the detection intensity of the sample based on the maximum detection intensity of the standard sample in the calibration curve obtained in step S7 (step S16). Step S16 may be performed before step S15. Alternatively, the setting unit 4 may set a value specified by the user through the operation unit 150 as the threshold value for the detection intensity of the sample. In this case, step S16 may be performed before step S7.

[0052] Next, the determination unit 5 determines whether the detection intensity of any unknown sample output by the detector 240 in steps S8, S10, S12, and S14 is greater than the threshold set in step S16 (step S17). If the detection intensity of all unknown samples is below the threshold, the determination unit 5 terminates the quantitative analysis of the samples. If the detection intensity of any unknown sample is greater than the threshold, the batch generation unit 8 generates a new batch file showing the analysis sequence of the unknown sample (step S18). The new batch file generated in step S18 is linked to the batch file obtained in step S2.

[0053] In this example, it is determined that the detection intensities of the first and fourth unknown samples are greater than the threshold. In this case, the determination unit 6 determines the dilution ratio of the first unknown sample based on the detection intensity of the first unknown sample output in step S8 and the threshold (step S19). As a result, the dilution ratio determined in step S19 is set in the sample supply unit 220 of the analyzer 200. Subsequently, the measurement execution unit 2 controls the operation of the analyzer 200 to measure the first unknown sample according to the analysis sequence indicated by the new batch file generated in step S18 (step S20).

[0054] In this case, in the analyzer 200, the mobile phase supply unit 210 supplies the mobile phase, and the sample supply unit 220 dilutes the first unknown sample with the mobile phase supplied by the mobile phase supply unit 210 at a set dilution ratio and supplies it to the separation column 230. The detector 240 detects the first unknown sample that has passed through the separation column 230 and outputs the detection intensity. Subsequently, the processing unit 7 quantifies the concentration of the first unknown sample based on the calibration curve obtained in step S7 and the detection intensity of the first unknown sample output by the detector 240 in step S20 (step S21).

[0055] Similarly, the determination unit 6 determines the dilution ratio of the fourth unknown sample based on the detection intensity and threshold value of the fourth unknown sample output in step S14 (step S22). Subsequently, the measurement execution unit 2 controls the operation of the analyzer 200 to measure the fourth unknown sample according to the analysis sequence indicated by the new batch file generated in step S18 (step S23). Then, the processing unit 7 quantifies the concentration of the fourth unknown sample based on the calibration curve and the detection intensity of the fourth unknown sample output in step S23 (step S24).

[0056] Next, the determination unit 5 determines whether the detection intensity of any unknown sample output by the detector 240 in steps S20 and S23 is greater than the threshold set in step S16 (step S25). If the detection intensity of all unknown samples is below the threshold, the determination unit 5 terminates the quantitative analysis of the samples. If the detection intensity of any unknown sample is greater than the threshold, the batch generation unit 8 generates a new batch file showing the analysis sequence of the unknown sample, similar to step S18 (step S26). Thereafter, the same process as in steps S19 to S25 is repeated until the detection intensity of all unknown samples is below the threshold.

[0057] (6) Effects If the concentration of the unknown sample supplied by the sample supply unit 220 is relatively high, the detection intensity of the unknown sample output by the detector 240 may become excessively high. In the analysis system 300 according to this embodiment, in such cases, the dilution ratio of the unknown sample is determined by the determination unit 6 based on the detection intensity and the threshold value. The unknown sample is then diluted by the sample supply unit 220 at the determined dilution ratio and supplied.

[0058] This configuration reduces the detection intensity of the unknown sample output by the detector 240. Therefore, it becomes easier to quantify the concentration of the sample using the detection intensity within the range where the linearity of the calibration curve acquired by the calibration curve acquisition unit 3 is ensured. As a result, even if the person in charge of measurement does not have sufficient knowledge of the analytical instrument 200, the unknown sample can be measured under appropriate conditions.

[0059] In this embodiment, a batch file indicating the analysis sequence of the sample is acquired by the batch acquisition unit 1, and the operation of the analyzer 200 is controlled by the measurement execution unit 2 according to the analysis sequence. In this case, the sample can be easily measured based on the batch file.

[0060] In the quantitative processing shown in Figures 5 and 6, during the analysis sequence, each time the determination unit 5 determines that the detection intensity of an unknown sample is greater than a threshold, the sample supply unit 220 is controlled to dilute the unknown sample at the dilution ratio determined by the determination unit 6 and supply it. The detector 240 is also controlled to detect the unknown sample supplied by the sample supply unit 220 after it has been diluted.

[0061] This quantitative process ensures that if the detection intensity of any unknown sample becomes excessively high during the analysis sequence, the unknown sample is diluted during the analysis sequence. This allows each unknown sample to be measured under appropriate conditions during the analysis sequence.

[0062] On the other hand, in the quantitative processing shown in Figures 8 and 9, if the determination unit 5 determines that the detection intensity of any unknown sample is greater than the threshold during the analysis sequence, the batch generation unit 8 generates a new batch file showing the analysis sequence of that unknown sample. After the completion of the previous analysis sequence, the sample supply unit 220 is controlled to supply the sample whose detection intensity was determined to be greater than the threshold, diluted at the dilution ratio determined by the determination unit 6, according to the analysis sequence shown in the new batch file. The detector 240 is also controlled to detect the sample supplied by the sample supply unit 220 after it has been diluted.

[0063] This quantitative process ensures that if the detection intensity of any sample becomes excessively high during the previous analysis sequence, the sample is diluted after the completion of that sequence. This allows the sample with excessively high detection intensity in the previous analysis sequence to be measured under appropriate conditions during the analysis sequence indicated by a new batch file.

[0064] (7) Other embodiments (a) In the above embodiment, the calibration curve acquisition unit 3 acquires a calibration curve based on the measurement of standard samples according to the analysis sequence indicated by the batch file, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. If a calibration curve is stored in the storage unit 140 or the like, the calibration curve acquisition unit 3 may acquire the calibration curve from the storage unit 140 or the like.

[0065] (b) In the above embodiment, the analysis control unit 10 includes the setting unit 4, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. If a threshold value for the detection intensity of the sample is set in advance, the analysis control unit 10 does not need to include the setting unit 4.

[0066] (c) In the above embodiment, the determination unit 6 determines the ratio of the threshold to the detection intensity of the unknown sample as the sample dilution ratio, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. The determination unit 6 may determine the sample dilution ratio by performing other calculations based on the detection intensity and the threshold.

[0067] (8) Aspect Those skilled in the art will understand that the above-described exemplary embodiments are specific examples of the following embodiments.

[0068] (Article 1) An analysis system relating to one aspect is: A sample supply unit that supplies the sample, A detection unit that detects the sample supplied by the sample supply unit and outputs the detection intensity of the sample, A calibration curve acquisition unit that acquires a calibration curve showing the relationship between the concentration of a standard sample and the detection intensity of the standard sample, A determination unit that determines whether the detection intensity of the sample output by the detection unit is greater than a set threshold, If the detection intensity of the sample is greater than the threshold, a determination unit determines the dilution ratio of the sample based on the detection intensity and the threshold, The system includes a processing unit that, when the detection intensity of the sample is below the threshold, quantifies the concentration of the sample based on the detection intensity and the calibration curve acquired by the calibration curve acquisition unit. The sample supply unit may supply the sample after diluting it at the dilution ratio determined by the determination unit.

[0069] In this analysis system, if the detection intensity of the sample output by the detector becomes excessively high due to the relatively high concentration of the sample supplied by the sample supply unit, the dilution ratio of the sample is determined by the determination unit based on the detection intensity and the threshold value. The sample is then diluted by the sample supply unit according to the determined dilution ratio and supplied. Therefore, the detection intensity of the sample output by the detector is reduced. Consequently, it becomes easier to quantify the concentration of the sample using the detection intensity within the range that ensures the linearity of the calibration curve acquired by the calibration curve acquisition unit. As a result, the sample can be measured under appropriate conditions.

[0070] (Section 2) The analysis system described in Section 1 is: The system may further include a setting unit that sets the threshold value based on the maximum detection intensity of the standard sample in the calibration curve acquired by the calibration curve acquisition unit.

[0071] In this case, a threshold for appropriately diluting the sample can be easily set.

[0072] (Article 3) The analysis system described in Article 1 is: The system may further include a setting unit that accepts the specification of the threshold and sets the accepted threshold.

[0073] In this case, you can set any threshold value.

[0074] (Article 4) In the analysis system described in any one of paragraphs 1 to 3, The determination unit may determine the ratio of the threshold value to the detection intensity of the sample as the dilution ratio.

[0075] In this case, the sample can be easily and appropriately diluted.

[0076] (Article 5) The analysis system described in any one of paragraphs 1 to 4 is: A batch acquisition unit that acquires a first batch file showing the first analysis sequence of the sample, The system may further include a measurement execution unit that controls the operation of the sample supply unit and the detection unit according to the first analysis sequence.

[0077] In this case, the sample can be easily measured based on the first batch file.

[0078] (Paragraph 6) In the analysis system described in Paragraph 5, The measurement execution unit may, during the first analysis sequence, control the sample supply unit to supply the sample diluted at the dilution ratio determined by the determination unit each time the determination unit determines that the detection intensity of the sample is greater than the threshold, and control the detection unit to detect the sample supplied by the sample supply unit.

[0079] With this configuration, if the detection intensity of any sample becomes excessively high during the first analysis sequence, the sample is diluted during the first analysis sequence. This allows each sample to be measured under appropriate conditions during the first analysis sequence.

[0080] (Section 7) The analysis system described in Section 5 is: In the first analysis sequence, if the determination unit determines that the detection intensity of any sample is greater than a threshold, the system further includes a batch generation unit that generates a second batch file indicating a second analysis sequence for that sample. The measurement execution unit may, after the completion of the first analysis sequence, control the sample supply unit to supply samples whose detection intensity is determined to be greater than the threshold value, diluted at the dilution ratio determined by the determination unit, in accordance with the second analysis sequence, and control the detection unit to detect the samples supplied by the sample supply unit.

[0081] With this configuration, if the detection intensity of any sample becomes excessively high during the first analysis sequence, the sample is diluted after the completion of the first analysis sequence. This allows the sample whose detection intensity became excessively high during the first analysis sequence to be measured under appropriate conditions during the second analysis sequence. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0082] 1...Batch acquisition unit, 2...Measurement execution unit, 3...Calibration curve acquisition unit, 4...Setting unit, 5...Determination unit, 6...Decision unit, 7...Processing unit, 8...Batch generation unit, 10...Analysis control unit, 100...Control device, 110...CPU, 120...RAM, 130...ROM, 140...Storage unit, 150...Operation unit, 160...Display unit, 170...Input / output I / F, 180...Bus, 200...Analyzer, 210...Mobile phase supply unit, 220...Sample supply unit, 230...Separation column, 240...Detector, 300...Analysis system

Claims

1. A sample supply unit that supplies the sample, A detection unit that detects the sample supplied by the sample supply unit and outputs the detection intensity of the sample, A calibration curve acquisition unit acquires a calibration curve that shows the relationship between the concentration of a standard sample and the detection intensity of the standard sample, and the maximum value of the detection intensity of the standard sample. A determination unit that determines whether the detection intensity of the sample output by the detection unit is greater than a set threshold, A determination unit determines the ratio of the detection intensity to the threshold value as the dilution ratio of the sample when the detection intensity of the sample is greater than the threshold value, A processing unit that, when the detection intensity of the sample is below the threshold, quantifies the concentration of the sample based on the detection intensity and the calibration curve obtained by the calibration curve acquisition unit, The system includes a setting unit that sets the threshold value based on the maximum detection intensity of the standard sample in the calibration curve acquired by the calibration curve acquisition unit, The sample supply unit is an analytical system that supplies a sample diluted at the dilution ratio determined by the determination unit.

2. A batch acquisition unit that acquires a first batch file showing the first analysis sequence of a sample, The analysis system according to claim 1, further comprising a measurement execution unit that controls the operation of the sample supply unit and the detection unit in accordance with the first analysis sequence.

3. The analysis system according to claim 2, wherein the measurement execution unit controls the sample supply unit to supply the sample diluted at the dilution ratio determined by the determination unit each time the determination unit determines that the detection intensity of the sample is greater than the threshold during the first analysis sequence, and controls the detection unit to detect the sample supplied by the sample supply unit.

4. In the first analysis sequence, if the determination unit determines that the detection intensity of any sample is greater than a threshold, the system further includes a batch generation unit that generates a second batch file indicating a second analysis sequence for that sample. The analysis system according to claim 2, wherein the measurement execution unit, after the completion of the first analysis sequence, controls the sample supply unit to supply a sample whose detection intensity is determined to be greater than the threshold value, diluted at the dilution ratio determined by the determination unit, in accordance with the second analysis sequence, and controls the detection unit to detect the sample supplied by the sample supply unit.

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