Container storage apparatus, container storage method, and automated analysis system

Abstract

Provided is a container storage device that can equalize the frequencies with which a plurality of container storage cases are used, and reduce instances of having to perform maintenance by mitigating the progression of wear on components. The container storage device comprises: a case 203 that can retain and store a container 201 therein; a storage cabinet 9c that can store a plurality of the cases 203; and a control unit 12 that controls the storage cabinet 9c. The control unit 12 comprises: a count unit 121 that acquires a first value, for each of the plurality of cases 203, calculated on the basis of the number of times that the container 201 is inserted into the case 203, or the number of times that the container 201 is removed from the case 203; and a determination unit 123 that determines the next case 203 into which a container 201 conveyed from outside is to be inserted on the basis of the first value.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a container storage device, a container storage method, and an automatic analysis system.

Background Art

[0002] A mechanism for storing calibration and quality control materials to be cooled is known (see Patent Document 1). Specifically, it is a cooling storage assembly that is a plurality of detachable evaporation covers configured to be placed on the cooling base assembly without contacting a plurality of fluid tubes and configured to be moved by a sample handling robot arm.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] Since the cooling storage assembly stores a large number of specimen containers, a large number of specimen container storage positions capable of accommodating the specimen containers are arranged. When there are a large number of storage positions, the plurality of specimen containers may be stored unevenly in a predetermined position. In that case, wear of parts at some positions progresses, etc., and the frequency of maintenance increases, which places a burden on users and service technicians.

[0005] Patent Document 1 does not describe anything about the progress of wear of parts due to uneven storage in some positions.

[0006] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a container storage device, a container storage method, and an automatic analysis system that equalize the usage frequencies of a plurality of container storage positions, suppress the progress of wear of parts, and reduce the maintenance frequency.

[0007] An automated analysis system is a system that includes a container storage device and an automated analyzer. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] To achieve the above objective, the present invention is configured as follows.

[0009] A container storage device comprises a case capable of holding and storing containers inside, a storage cabinet capable of holding a plurality of the cases, and a control unit for controlling the storage cabinet, wherein the control unit includes a counting unit that acquires a first value for each of the plurality of cases based on the number of times the container has been inserted into the case or the number of times the container has been removed from the case, and a determination unit that determines which case the container transported from the outside should be inserted into next based on the first value.

[0010] Furthermore, in a method for storing containers in a storage facility, for each of the multiple cases held in the storage facility and capable of holding and storing containers inside, a first value is obtained based on the number of times the container has been inserted into the case or the number of times the container has been removed from the case, and based on the first value, the case into which the container transported from the outside should be inserted next is determined.

[0011] Furthermore, the automated analysis system comprises a container storage device and an automated analyzer, the automated analyzer comprising a sample container input / output unit, a sample container transport line, and an analysis unit. [Effects of the Invention]

[0012] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a container storage device, a container storage method, and an automated analysis system that equalize the frequency of use of multiple container storage cases, suppress the progression of wear on parts, and reduce the need for maintenance. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0013] [Figure 1]Block diagram showing an example of the basic configuration of an automatic analysis system. [Figure 2] Diagram showing the assignment of the specimen container storage positions on the specimen container storage disk. [Figure 3] Diagram showing the configuration of the specimen container storage case. [Figure 4] Flowchart showing the discrimination process for the loading specimen and the re-storage specimen. [Figure 5] Flowchart showing the storage process for the loading specimen container. [Figure 6] Flowchart showing the storage process for the re-storage specimen container. [Figure 7] Diagram showing the display unit of the container storage device. [Figure 8] Diagram showing the display unit after the container storage / discharge operation of the container storage device. [Figure 9] Functional block diagram of the control unit.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0014] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings.

Examples

[0015] (1) Explanation of the basic configuration (1-1) Specimen container loading / discharging unit 1 The specimen container loading / discharging unit 1 has a specimen container loading section 1a for loading the specimen rack

[0016] 11 into the automatic analyzer, and a specimen container discharging section 1d for discharging the specimen rack 11 from the automatic analyzer. The specimen container loading section 1a is connected to the feed line 3 of the specimen container transport lines 2 and 3. The specimen container discharging section 1d is connected to the feed line 3 of the specimen container transport lines 2 and 3). The specimen container transport line 2 transports the specimen rack 11 from the outside to the specimen container storage device 9. The specimen container transport line 3 transports the specimen rack 11 from the specimen container storage device 9 to the outside. Therefore, the specimen container transport line 2 can be defined as the rack loading line, and the specimen container transport line 3 can be defined as the rack unloading line.

[0016] The sample rack 11 into which the sample is loaded has the sample container 201 (shown in FIG. 3) placed thereon by the operator. The sample rack 11 installed in the sample container loading section 1a can also be substituted with a holder for one sample container.

[0017] (1-2) Sample container transfer lines 2, 3 The sample container transfer lines 2, 3 connect the sample container loading / discharging unit 1, the analysis unit 10, and the sample container storage unit 9. The sample container transfer lines 2, 3 fix the sample rack 11 on the transfer line and enable the transfer of the sample rack 11 between the above units.

[0018] The sample container transfer lines 2, 3 include a return line 2 for transferring the sample rack 11 from the analysis unit 10 to the sample container loading section 1a and a feed line 3 for transferring the sample rack 11 from the sample container loading section 1a to the analysis unit 10. The sample rack 11 transferred from the analysis unit 10 via the return line 2 is transferred to the sample container discharging section 1d or the transfer line 4 of the sample container storage unit 9.

[0019] (1-3) Transfer line 4 The transfer line 4 is a part of the sample container storage unit 9 and is located between the sample container storage vault 9c (storage vault) and the return line 2 which is a sample container transfer line and the feed line 3 and is connected to the return line 2 and the feed line 3.

[0020] The transfer line 4 has one transfer position 5 which is the position where the sample transfer mechanism 9a grips the sample container 201 placed on the sample rack 11. The sample rack 11 transferred from the return line 2 moves on the transfer line and reaches the transfer position 5.

[0021] The transfer mechanism moving section 9a-1 moves the sample transfer mechanism 9a between the transfer position 5 and the sample container storage disk 9e.

[0022] In transfer position 5, the sample rack 11 can be stopped at the same number of stopping positions 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d, and 5e as the positions of the sample rack 11, so that the sample transport mechanism 9a can grasp the sample containers 201 at each position of the sample rack 11.

[0023] After the sample rack 11 transfers the sample container 201 to the sample container storage unit 9, the empty sample rack 11 is transported via the transfer line 4 to the empty rack storage unit 6. The empty rack storage unit 6 stores multiple sample racks 11 that do not contain any sample containers 201.

[0024] If multiple sample racks 11 are already stored in the empty rack storage section 6 and there is no more space to store them, the sample racks 11 are discharged to the sample container discharge section 1d via the feed line 3.

[0025] The specimen rack ID reader 7 is adjacent to the transfer line 4 and acquires barcode information of specimen racks 11 that have been transported to and from the transfer line 4. The specimen container sensor 8 is adjacent to the transfer line 4 and detects the presence or absence of specimen containers 201 on each position of the specimen rack 11.

[0026] (1-4) Sample container storage unit 9 The specimen container storage unit 9 is a device for housing specimen containers 201. The specimen container storage unit 9 is located between the transfer position 5 and the specimen container storage cabinet shutter 9f, and has a specimen transport mechanism 9a that grasps the specimen container 201 placed at the transfer position 5 and transports it into the specimen container storage cabinet 9c. The specimen transport mechanism 9a has a home position adjacent to the transfer position 5.

[0027] Furthermore, the specimen container storage unit 9 is located between the transfer position 5 and the specimen container storage cabinet 9c and includes a specimen container ID reader 9b that acquires information from a barcode label attached to the specimen container 201, a specimen container storage cabinet 9c adjacent to the transfer position 5 that separates the inside of the cabinet from the external environment with a hollow structure, maintains the inside of the cabinet at the desired temperature, has an opening 9h (second opening) at the top for inserting and removing the specimen container 201, and has an axis inside for fixing the specimen container storage disc 9e, and a specimen container storage position 9d for storing the specimen container 201, and is equipped with a specimen container storage disc 9e that rotates horizontally around the center of the specimen container storage cabinet 9c and a mechanism fixed to the storage position 9d of the specimen container 201 for airtight storage of the specimen container 201.

[0028] The specimen container storage unit 9 consists of a cylindrical specimen container storage case 203 (shown in Figure 3) having an openable and closable lid on top for inserting and removing specimen containers 201, a specimen container storage cabinet shutter 9f equipped with an opening and closing mechanism that closes the opening 9h of the specimen container storage cabinet 9c while specimens are being stored and opens when specimen containers 201 are being inserted or removed, and a lid opening and closing mechanism 9g that has a home position adjacent to the specimen container storage cabinet shutter 9f and opens and closes the lid of the specimen container storage case 203 from outside the specimen container storage cabinet 9c.

[0029] (1-5) Analysis Unit 10 The analysis unit 10 is an analytical section that measures the concentration and physical properties of specific substances contained in a sample.

[0030] The analysis unit 10 is connected to the feed line 3 and the return line 2, and measures the concentration and physical properties of the sample contained in the sample container 201 on the transported sample rack 11. The analysis unit 10 may be an analysis unit that performs analysis to determine the concentration of a target substance from the electromotive force when the sample passes through an electrode, or an analysis unit that performs analysis to calculate the concentration of a target substance from the absorbance of the sample at a specific wavelength.

[0031] Furthermore, the analysis unit 10 may be an analysis section that performs analysis to specifically detect a target substance in a sample using an immunoassay, or an analysis section that performs analysis to calculate the amount of substance by mass spectrometry after isolating the target substance by liquid chromatography.

[0032] (1-6) Specimen rack 11 The sample rack 11 is a rack for transporting sample containers 201 between the sample container input / output unit 1, the analysis unit 10, and the sample container storage unit 9 on the sample container transport line, which consists of a return line 2 and a feed line 3. The sample rack 11 has a mechanism for vertically fixing the sample containers 201 and a mechanism for moving along the sample container transport line. The sample rack 11 has multiple holes (position No. 1, position No. 2, position No. 3, etc.) on which one or more sample containers 201 can be fixed. When placing sample containers 201 in multiple positions, the sample containers 201 are placed sequentially starting from position 1.

[0033] Furthermore, each sample rack 11 is assigned a unique number, which is written on a one-dimensional barcode, two-dimensional barcode, or RFID tag attached to the sample rack 11.

[0034] (1-7) Control Unit 12 The control unit 12 controls the mechanical operation of each unit of the sample container storage unit 9 and the automatic analyzer (sample container input / output unit 1, return line 2 which is the sample container transport line, feed line 3, and analysis unit 10).

[0035] Furthermore, the control unit 12 performs calculations on data acquired by the analysis unit 10, acquires operation logs for each unit, calculates the average number of times the lids of the sample container storage cases 203 (shown in Figure 3) are opened and closed for each area in the sample container storage unit 9, and determines the sample container storage position 9d.

[0036] The control unit 12 is equipped with a storage unit 13 such as a hard disk, and the storage unit 13 records calculation results, operation logs of each mechanism, the number of times the lid of the sample container storage case 203 at each sample container storage position 9d is opened and closed (first value), stored sample information (sample type, expiration date, lot), sample container information acquired by the sample container ID reading unit 9b, and the number of the sample rack 11 acquired by the sample rack ID reading unit 7.

[0037] The display unit 14 is connected to the control unit 12 and displays data handled by the control unit 12 on the screen. For example, the display unit 14 displays the cumulative number of times the lid of each sample container storage position 9d has been opened and closed, the status of each position, various system alarms, and information on samples being stored.

[0038] The control unit 15 is connected to the control unit 12 and receives operational instructions from the operator for each mechanism. For example, it receives instructions for storing / discharging sample containers and requests for analysis of samples being stored.

[0039] The specimen container storage device comprises a case 203 capable of holding a container 201 inside, a storage cabinet 9c capable of holding multiple cases 203, and a control unit 12 that controls the storage cabinet 9c.

[0040] The automated analyzer comprises a sample container input / output unit 1, a return line 2 and a feed line 3 which are sample container transport lines, and an analysis unit 10.

[0041] (2) Explanation of the assignment of sample container storage positions on the sample container storage disk 9e Figure 2 shows the sample container storage disk 9e.

[0042] In Figure 2, the center of the specimen container storage disk 9e is fixed to an axis inside the specimen container storage cabinet 9c, and rotates horizontally in any direction (clockwise / counterclockwise) around the axis. Multiple specimen container storage positions 9d (No. 1 to No. 30 in this embodiment) are defined on the specimen container storage disk 9e.

[0043] In this embodiment, the positions of the sample container storage positions 9d are determined at regular intervals in a concentric pattern from the center of the circular sample container storage disk 9e.

[0044] Each specimen container storage position 9d is equipped with a mechanism for vertically fixing the specimen container storage case 203.

[0045] Furthermore, the specimen container storage disk 9e is divided into two or more regions. In this embodiment, regions 101, 102, 103, 104, and 105 are shown, divided by multiple straight lines radiating from the center of the circular specimen container storage disk 9e. All specimen container storage positions 9d belong to one of regions 101, 102, 103, 104, or 105.

[0046] All specimen container storage positions 9d and regions 101, 102, 103, 104, and 105 are assigned integer numbers sequentially starting from 1. These numbers are treated as position numbers in specimen container storage position 9d and as block numbers in the regions.

[0047] Note that the specimen container storage disk 9e may be a shape other than circular, such as a triangle or a square, or other polygonal shape.

[0048] Each sample container storage position 9d is divided into two statuses: available and unavailable. The unavailable status is assigned to, for example, a sample container storage position 9d in which a sample container 201 is already stored, a sample container position in which a stored sample container 201 is being discharged to the analysis unit 10, and a sample container storage position 9d in which the number of times the lid of the sample container storage case 203 has been opened and closed has reached a predetermined number. The available status is assigned to all sample container storage positions 9d except those in the unavailable status.

[0049] (3) Description of specimen container storage case 203 and specimen container 201 Figure 3 shows a schematic diagram of how the sample container 201 is stored in the sample container storage case 203.

[0050] In Figure 3, the sample container 201 is cylindrical, with one end closed and the other end having an opening 209 (first opening). The outer diameter and length of the cylinder are specified, and a one-dimensional barcode label, a two-dimensional barcode label, or an RFID tag containing sample information such as the sample type, expiration date, and lot number is affixed to the side. The sample container 201 is filled with a quality control sample, calibrator, general sample, or sample 202, which is a cleaning solution for cleaning the analysis unit 10, to be analyzed by the analysis unit 10.

[0051] The specimen container storage case 203 is cylindrical, with an open end. Inside the specimen container storage case 203, there is a tube retaining packing 204 for vertically fixing the specimen container 201, an openable and closable case lid 205, a lid fixing part 206 for fixing the case lid 205, and a lid opening and closing handle 207 for the lid opening and closing mechanism 9g to open and close the case lid 205.

[0052] The case lid 205 is equipped with an evaporation prevention gasket 208 to maintain airtightness inside the sample container storage case 203 and prevent evaporation of the sample contained in the sample container 201.

[0053] When storing the sample container 201, the lid opening / closing mechanism 9g works in conjunction with the lid opening / closing handle 207 of the case lid 205 to open the case lid 205. The sample container transport mechanism 9a secures the grasped sample container 201 to the tube retaining packing 204 and then returns to the home position. The lid opening / closing mechanism 9g closes the case lid 205 and then returns to the home position.

[0054] In this embodiment, the number of times the sample container 201 is inserted into and removed from the sample container storage case 203 is counted as the number of times the case lid 205 is opened and closed. The number of times the lid opening / closing mechanism 9g opens and closes the case lid 205, returns to the home position without error, and the opening and closing operation is completed normally is counted by the control unit 12. This count is added for each position. In addition to the insertion and removal of the sample container 201, the number of times the case lid 205 is opened and closed during maintenance may also be included in the count of opening and closing the case lid 205. Alternatively, the number of times the opening and closing operation is completed normally may be counted by detecting the operation of the case lid 205 and the lid fixing part 206 with a sensor.

[0055] The number of times the case lid 205 is opened and closed allows for the estimation of the degree of wear on the evaporation prevention gasket 208, as well as the degree of wear and deterioration of the lid fixing part 206 and the lid opening / closing handle 207. Therefore, the operator can manage the number of times the case lid 205 is opened and closed and predetermine when to replace the sample container storage case 203.

[0056] For each position, an average value is calculated for the number of times the case lids 205 have been opened and closed. The average value (second value) is calculated for each block by dividing the total number of cumulative lid opening and closing times for all container storage cases within that block by the total number of sample container storage cases 203 within that block.

[0057] The number of times the sample container 201 is inserted into / removed from the sample container storage case 203 may be obtained not only by the number of times the case lid 205 is opened and closed, but also by sensing the operation of the sample container transport mechanism 9a, or it may be calculated based on the usage history for each sample container position 9d.

[0058] (4) Storage and Disposal Flow of Sample Container 201 (4-1) Storage of specimen container 201 The operation of this embodiment, configured as described above, will now be explained.

[0059] The operator first places the sample rack 11, which contains the sample container 201, into the sample container input section 1a of the sample container input / output unit 1, and then issues an instruction via the control unit 15 to store the sample container 201 in the sample container storage cabinet 9c. The sample rack 11 placed in the sample container input section 1a is transported to the transfer line 4 via the return line 2.

[0060] On the transfer line 4, the sample rack ID reader 7 obtains the number of the sample rack 11, and the sample container sensor 8 obtains the number of sample containers 201 placed on the sample rack 11. After this, the sample rack 11 is transported to the transfer position 5.

[0061] The control unit 12 selects one sample container storage position 9d on the sample container storage disk 9e, which is determined based on the number of times the case lid 205 is opened and closed. The sample container transport mechanism 9a on the home position starts operation, grasps the sample container 201, and moves it to the sample container ID reading unit 9b. The sample container ID reading unit 9b acquires information (sample type, expiration date, lot number) from the barcode label attached to the sample container 201, and the control unit 12 stores the acquired sample information.

[0062] After the specimen container storage disk 9e in the specimen container storage cabinet 9c rotates so that the designated position is directly below the storage cabinet specimen container storage shutter 9f, the specimen container storage cabinet 9c opens the specimen container storage shutter 9f. The lid opening / closing mechanism 9g starts operating from the home position and opens the case lid 208 of the specimen container storage case 203 inside the specimen container storage cabinet 9c.

[0063] The specimen container transport mechanism 9a inserts the grasped specimen container 201 into the specimen container storage case 203. After releasing the specimen container 201, the specimen container transport mechanism 9a rises and returns to its home position. The lid opening / closing mechanism 9g closes the lid of the specimen container storage case 203 in the specimen container storage cabinet 9c. Upon returning to its home position, information indicating that the specimen container has been stored is sent to the control unit 12, and the number of times the lid of the specimen container storage case 203 has been opened and closed in the specimen container storage position 9d is incremented by "1".

[0064] The specimen container storage cabinet 9c closes its shutter 9f, and the control unit 12 updates the status of the specimen container storage position 9d. Once all specimen containers 201 on the specimen rack 11 have been stored, the specimen rack 11 that does not contain any specimen containers 201 is transported to the empty rack storage unit 6.

[0065] (4-2) Discharge of sample container 201 The operator issues a command via the control unit 15 to discharge a designated sample container 201 from the sample container storage unit 9c to the analysis unit 10 or to the sample container discharge unit 1d of the sample container input / output unit 1. A sample rack 11 without a sample container 201 is transported from the empty rack storage unit 6 to the transfer line 4. After the sample rack ID reader 7 obtains the number of the sample rack 11, the sample rack 11 is transported to the transfer position 5.

[0066] The specimen container storage disk 9e rotates so that the designated specimen container storage position 9d is directly below the specimen container storage cabinet shutter 9f. When the specimen container storage cabinet 9c opens the specimen container storage cabinet shutter 9f, the lid opening / closing mechanism 9g starts moving from its home position and opens the lid of the container storage case inside the specimen container storage cabinet 9c.

[0067] The sample container transport mechanism 9a, in the home position, starts operating, grasps the sample container 201 in the sample container storage case 203, and moves it to the sample container ID reading unit 9b. The lid opening / closing mechanism 9g closes the case lid 205 of the sample container storage case 203 and returns to the home position, at which point the number of times the lid of the sample container storage case 203 has been opened and closed in the sample container storage position 9d is incremented by "1".

[0068] The sample container ID reading unit 9b acquires information (ID, sample type, expiration date, lot number) from the label attached to the sample container 201 and links the acquired sample container information with the position information of the sample rack 11. The sample container transport mechanism 9a places the grasped sample container 201 onto the sample rack 11, releases the sample container 201, and returns to the home position. The sample container storage unit 9c closes the sample container storage unit shutter 9f. After the discharge of the sample container 201 that has been instructed to be discharged is completed, or after all positions on the sample rack 11 are filled, the control unit 12 links the number of the sample rack 11 with its destination (analysis unit 10, or sample container discharge unit 1d).

[0069] The sample rack 11 on which the sample containers 201 are placed is transported via the feed line 3 to the analysis unit 10 or the sample container discharge section 1d of the sample container input / output unit 1.

[0070] (5) Determining the container storage position (5-1) Loading Sample Container Identification Flow A loading sample container is a sample container 201 stored in the sample container storage unit 9 that is not linked to any of the sample container storage positions 9d. A loading sample container is a sample container 201 that has been newly instructed to be stored by an operator.

[0071] Furthermore, a re-storage sample container is a sample container that is already linked to one of the sample container storage positions 9d. A sample container 201 that was once stored in the sample container storage unit 9 is transported to the analysis unit 10 and stored again is considered a re-storage sample container.

[0072] Figure 4 is a flowchart for determining whether or not the sample container 201 to be stored is a loading sample container.

[0073] First, the sample rack 11 on which the sample container 201 is placed is transported to the transfer line 4 of the sample container storage unit 9 (step S10). The sample rack ID reader 7 obtains the number of the sample rack 11, which is the sample rack information (step S11). The control unit 12 compares the number of the sample rack 11 transported from the sample container storage unit 9 to the analysis unit 10 with the number of the sample rack 11 obtained by the sample rack ID reader 7. The control unit 12 determines whether the sample rack 11 is the sample rack 11 that was transported from the sample container storage unit 9 to the analysis unit 10 (re-storage sample rack) (step S12). If the determination in step S12 is NO, the loading sample container storage process is performed (step S13). If the determination in step S12 is YES, the re-storage process is performed (step S14).

[0074] (5-2) Loading Sample Container Storage Processing Flow Figure 5 is a flowchart showing the storage process for the loading sample container 201. If the loading sample container identification flow (Figure 4) determines that the sample rack 11 transported to the transfer line 4 is carrying a loading sample container (step S14), the flow shown in Figure 5 is performed (step S101).

[0075] First, the sample container sensor 8 adjacent to the transfer line 4 measures the number of sample containers 201 placed on the sample rack 11 (step S102). If the number of sample containers 201 on the sample rack 11 is zero, the sample rack 11 without any samples is transported to the empty rack storage unit 6 or the sample rack discharge unit (step S103). In step S102, if the number of sample containers 201 on the sample rack 11 is one or more, the storage unit 13 stores the measured number of containers as [number of sample containers on the rack]. The control unit 12 subtracts [number of sample containers already stored in the rack] from [number of sample containers on the rack] to calculate the number of sample containers 201 placed on the sample rack 11 (step S104). [Number of sample containers already stored in the rack] is zero if the sample rack 11 has just been transported by the transfer line 4.

[0076] In step S104, if the calculated number of sample containers 201 on the sample rack 11 is zero, the sample rack 11 without any samples on it is transported to the empty rack storage unit 6 or the sample rack discharge unit (step S103). In step S104, if the calculated number of sample containers 201 on the sample rack 11 is one or more, it is determined whether there is one or more usable positions remaining among all the sample container storage positions 9d (step S105). If the number of usable positions is zero, the sample rack 11 with the sample containers 201 on it is discharged from the sample container discharge unit 1d (step S106), a system alarm is displayed on the display unit 14, and the operator is notified that the sample containers 201 that could not be stored have been discharged and that there are no usable sample container storage positions 9d remaining (step S107).

[0077] In step S105, if there is one or more available positions, the sample rack 11 is transported to the stopping position 5a (pos.1) of the transfer position 5.

[0078] Furthermore, the sample rack 11 at stopping position 5a moves to stopping position 5b (pos.2), the sample rack 11 at stopping position 5b moves to stopping position 5c (pos.3), the sample rack 11 at stopping position 5c (pos.3) moves to stopping position 5d (pos.4), and the sample rack 11 at stopping position 5d moves to stopping position 5e (pos.5) (step S108).

[0079] Subsequently, it is determined for all blocks (101-105) whether at least one usable position remains (step S109), and blocks with zero usable positions are excluded from the block candidates for container storage (step S110).

[0080] For blocks with one or more usable positions remaining, it is determined whether any positions have been stored / discharged within a certain period of time (step S111). If one or more positions remain, the block containing the position with the most recent update history of lid opening / closing counts is excluded from the blocks of container storage candidates to avoid continuous use of that block (step S112). Based on the storage history of the data stored in the storage unit 13, the control unit 12 controls the system to prevent the sample container 201 from being stored in the same block (area) twice in a row.

[0081] In step 111, if the result is zero (zero positions stored / discharged within a certain time), or if, after performing step S112, it is determined whether there are any usable positions remaining (step S113).

[0082] In step S113, if there are zero available positions, the block containing the position with the most recent update history of lid opening and closing counts is designated as a block that can be stored in the container (step S114). In step S113, if there is one or more available positions, the block with the smallest average cumulative lid opening and closing count of the sample container storage case 203 is selected from among the blocks that can be stored in the container (step S115).

[0083] Then, it is determined whether there are multiple selected blocks (step S116), and if there are two or more, the block with the smallest block number among them is selected (step S117). If only one block was selected in step S115, or after step S117 is performed, the block in which the sample container 201 will be stored is determined.

[0084] From the blocks determined to be container storage blocks, the position with the fewest cumulative opening and closing times of the lid of the sample container storage case 203 is selected (step S118). Then, it is determined whether there are multiple selected positions (step S119), and if there are two or more, the position with the smallest position number is selected (step S120). If there is only one position with the fewest cumulative opening and closing times of the lid of the sample container storage case 203, or after performing step S120, the selected position is determined to be the sample container storage position 9d.

[0085] The sample container 201 is stored in the sample container storage case 203 at the determined position (step S121). In other words, the case 203 into which the sample container 201 should be inserted next is determined. At this time, the sample container ID reading unit 9b acquires information on the sample container 201, and the storage unit 13 stores this information. After the operation of the lid opening / closing mechanism 9g, the presence or absence of an error in the lid opening / closing mechanism position sensor (not shown), which determines errors in the lid opening / closing mechanism, is determined (step S122). If there is an error, the operation of the sample container storage unit 9 is stopped (step S123), a system alarm is displayed on the display unit 14, and the operator is notified that the mechanism of the sample container storage unit 9 did not operate normally (step S124). If there is no error, the sample information is linked to the sample container storage position 9d, and the [number of sample containers stored in the rack] and the cumulative number of times the case lid 205 of that position is opened and closed are increased by 1 (step S125).

[0086] Subsequently, the number of sample containers 201 on the sample rack 11 is calculated again (step S104), and if the result is one or more, the flow is continued. If the result in step S104 is zero, the sample rack 11 without any sample containers 201 is transported to the empty rack storage unit 6 or the sample rack discharge unit (step S103), and the loading sample container storage processing flow is terminated (step S126).

[0087] (5-3) Re-storage processing flow Figure 6 is a flowchart showing the storage process for re-storage sample containers. If the loading sample identification flow determines that the sample rack 11 transported to the transfer line 4 contains re-storage sample containers, this flow is executed (step S201).

[0088] First, the sample container sensor 8 measures the number of sample containers 201 placed on the sample rack 11, and the storage unit 13 stores the measured number as [number of sample containers on the rack] (step S202). The control unit 12 subtracts [number of sample containers already stored in the rack] from [number of sample containers on the rack] to calculate the number of sample containers 201 placed on the sample rack 11 (step S203). If the calculated number of sample containers 201 on the sample rack 11 is zero, the sample rack 11 without any samples is transported to the empty rack storage unit 6 or the sample rack discharge unit (step S204). If the calculated number of sample containers 201 on the sample rack 11 is 1 or more, the sample rack 11 is transported to the stop position 5a of the transfer position 5. Furthermore, the sample rack 11 at stopping position 5a moves to stopping position 5b, the sample rack 11 at stopping position 5b moves to stopping position 5c, the sample rack 11 at stopping position 5c moves to stopping position 5d, and the sample rack 11 at stopping position 5d moves to stopping position 5e (step S205).

[0089] The control unit 12 determines the original sample container storage position 9d as the sample container storage position 9d based on the sample container information linked to the sample rack number (step S206). The sample container 201 is stored in the sample container storage case 203 at the determined position (step S207). At this time, the sample container ID reading unit 9b acquires information on the sample container 201, and the storage unit 13 stores this information. After the operation of the lid opening / closing mechanism 9g, it is determined whether or not there is an error in the mechanism position sensor value (step S208). If there is an error, the operation of the sample container storage unit 9 is stopped (step S209), and a system alarm is displayed on the display unit 14 (step S210). If there is no error, the sample information is linked to the sample container storage position 9d, the [number of sample containers stored in the rack] is increased by 1 (step S211), and the cumulative number of times the lid of the sample container storage case 203 at that position is opened and closed is increased by 1 (step S212). Step S214 determines whether the cumulative number of times the lid of the sample container storage case 203 has been opened and closed has reached the upper limit. If it has reached the limit, a system alarm is displayed on the display unit 14 (Step S215), and the process returns to Step S203. If the number of times is not at the upper limit in Step S214, the process returns to Step S203 without going through Step S215.

[0090] Subsequently, the number of sample containers on the sample rack 11 is calculated again (step S203), and if the result is 1 or more, the flow is continued. If the result is zero, the sample rack 11 without any sample containers 201 is transported to the empty rack storage unit 6 or the sample rack discharge unit (step S204), and the re-storage processing flow is terminated (step S213).

[0091] (6) Changes in the display unit 14 due to storage and discharge of the sample container 201 Figure 7 shows the display unit 14 which displays the number of times the lid has been opened and closed. The display unit 14 displays block information 301 and 302 for each block number. In addition, for each block, the cumulative number of times the case lid 205 of each sample container storage position 9d has been opened and closed 303, 304, 305, 306, 307, 308, 309, 310, 311, 312, 313, and 314 are displayed.

[0092] Additionally, the average cumulative number of lid openings and closings for each block is displayed, such as 315 and 316. For example, in information 301 for block 1, the average value of 315 is calculated by summing the number of lid openings and closings for position No. 1 (303), position No. 2 (304), position No. 3 (305), position No. 4 (306), position No. 5 (307), and position No. 6 (308), and dividing this sum by the number of positions in block 1.

[0093] In information 302 of block 2, similar to information 301 of block 1, the average value 316 is shown, which is calculated by summing the number of times the lid was opened and closed at position No. 7 (309), position No. 8 (310), position No. 9 (311), position No. 10 (312), position No. 11 (313), and position No. 12 (314), and then dividing this sum by the number of positions in block 1.

[0094] Figure 8 shows the display unit 14 showing the cumulative number of times the case lid 205 of each sample container storage position 9d is opened and closed after the sample container 201 discharge / storage operation is performed from the state shown in Figure 7. Suppose that the sample containers 201 at positions No. 1 and No. 2, which were stored in block 1, are discharged to the analysis unit 10 and then stored again in the sample container storage unit 9. In this case, at position No. 1, the number of times the lid is opened and closed is increased by "1" when the sample container is discharged, and then increased by another "1" when it is stored again. Therefore, the number of times the lid is opened and closed at position No. 1, 401, is the value obtained by increasing "2" from the number of times it was opened and closed before the operation, 303. Similarly, the number of times the lid is opened and closed at position No. 2, 402, is the value obtained by increasing "2" from the number of times it was opened and closed before the operation, 304.

[0095] Furthermore, suppose that new sample containers 201 are stored in positions No. 7, No. 8, and No. 9 of Block 2. In this case, at position No. 7, the number of times the lid is opened and closed when storing and discharging the sample container is increased by "1".

[0096] Therefore, the number of lid openings and closings for position No. 7, 407, is the value obtained by adding "1" to the number of openings and closings before operation, which was 309 (97).

[0097] The lid opening and closing counts for positions No. 8 and No. 9, 408 and 409, are the same as for position No. 7, obtained by adding "1" to the pre-operation opening and closing counts of 310 and 311.

[0098] Since the case lids 205 for positions No. 3, No. 4, No. 5, No. 6, No. 10, No. 11, and No. 12 were not opened or closed, the number of lid openings and closings after the operation (403, 404, 405, 406, 410, 411, 412) is the same as the number of lid openings and closings before the operation (305, 306, 307, 308, 312, 313, 315).

[0099] Furthermore, even after the case lid 205 has been opened and closed, the average cumulative number of lid openings and closings, 413 and 414, are displayed for each block. For example, in the information 301 of block 1, the average value of 413 is shown, calculated by summing the number of lid openings and closings for position No. 1 (401), position No. 2 (402), position No. 3 (403), position No. 4 (404), position No. 5 (405), and position No. 6 (406), and dividing this value by the number of positions in block 1.

[0100] In information 302 of block 2, similar to information 301 of block 1, the average value of 414 is shown, which is calculated by summing the number of times the lid was opened and closed at position No. 7 (407), position No. 8 (408), position No. 9 (409), position No. 10 (410), position No. 11 (411), and position No. 12 (412), and dividing this sum by the number of positions in block 1.

[0101] Figure 9 is a functional block diagram of the control unit 12, which is a functional block diagram relating to counting the number of times the sample container storage position 9d on the sample container storage disk 9e is used, determining which block to use from blocks 101 to 105, and determining the position to use. Other operation controls are omitted.

[0102] In Figure 9, the storage position usage counting unit 121 (counting unit) counts the number of times each sample container storage position 9d is used based on the operation of the lid opening / closing mechanism 9g in the sample container storage cabinet 9c, and stores the data in the storage unit 13. The used block determination unit 122 determines the block among blocks 101 to 105 that has the smallest average cumulative lid opening / closing count based on the data stored in the storage unit 13.

[0103] The position determination unit 123 (determination unit) determines, based on the data stored in the storage unit 13, which is the position with the lowest usage frequency among the sample container storage positions 9d of the block determined by the block usage determination unit 122 to be used. In other words, it determines the case 203 in which the sample container 201 should be inserted next.

[0104] The operation control unit 124 controls the operation of the sample container storage unit 9c, the sample container transport mechanism 9a, and the sample mechanism movement unit 9a-1 so that the usage position determined by the usage position determination unit 123 is used.

[0105] As described above, according to the embodiments of the present invention, it is possible to provide a container storage device, a container storage method, and an automated analysis system that equalize the usage frequency of multiple container storage positions, suppress the progression of wear on parts, and reduce the frequency of maintenance.

[0106] The above example illustrates the application of the present invention to a sample container. However, the present invention is applicable not only to sample containers but also to reagent containers and quality control sample containers. [Explanation of symbols]

[0107] 1...Sample container input / output unit, 1a...Sample container input section, 1d...Sample container output section, 2...Return line, 3...Feed line, 4...Transfer line, 5...Transfer position, 6...Empty rack storage section, 7...Sample rack ID reading section, 8...Sample container sensor, 9...Sample container storage unit, 9a...Sample container transport mechanism, 9a-1...Transport mechanism movement section, 9b...Sample container ID reading section, 9c...Sample container storage cabinet, 9d...Sample container storage position, 9e...Sample container storage disk, 9f...Sample container storage cabinet shutter, 9g... 10. Lid opening / closing mechanism, 9h. Opening (second opening), 11. Analysis unit, 12. Sample rack, 13. Control unit, 14. Storage unit, 15. Operation unit, 101. Block 1, 102. Block 2, 103. Block 3, 104. Block 4, 105. Block 5, 121. Storage position usage count unit (counting unit), 122. Used block determination unit, 123. Used position determination unit (determination unit), 124. Operation control unit, 201. Sample container, 202. Sample, 203. Sample container storage Tube case, 204...Tube retaining packing, 205...Case lid, 206...Lid fixing part, 207...Handle for opening and closing the lid, 208...Evaporation prevention packing, 209...Opening (first opening), 301...Block information for block number 1, 302...Block information for block number 2, 303...Average number of lid openings and closings in block 1, 304...Average number of lid openings and closings in block 2, 305...Number of lid openings and closings in position 1, 306...Number of lid openings and closings in position 2, 307...Number of lid openings and closings in position 3, 308...Position Number of lid openings and closings for position 4, 309... Number of lid openings and closings for position 5, 310... Number of lid openings and closings for position 6, 311... Number of lid openings and closings for position 7, 312... Number of lid openings and closings for position 8, 313... Number of lid openings and closings for position 9, 314... Number of lid openings and closings for position 10, 315... Number of lid openings and closings for position 11, 316... Number of lid openings and closings for position 12, 401... Average number of lid openings and closings in block 1 after lid opening and closing operation, 402... Average number of lid openings and closings in block 2 after lid opening and closing operation, 403... Number of lid openings and closings for position 1 after lid opening and closing operation,404...Number of lid openings and closings in position 2 after lid opening / closing operation, 405...Number of lid openings and closings in position 3 after lid opening / closing operation, 406...Number of lid openings and closings in position 4 after lid opening / closing operation, 407...Number of lid openings and closings in position 5 after lid opening / closing operation, 408...Number of lid openings and closings in position 6 after lid opening / closing operation, 409...Number of lid openings and closings in position 7 after lid opening / closing operation, 410...Number of lid openings and closings in position 8 after lid opening / closing operation, 411...Number of lid openings and closings in position 9 after lid opening / closing operation, 412...Number of lid openings and closings in position 10 after lid opening / closing operation, 413...Number of lid openings and closings in position 11 after lid opening / closing operation, 414...Number of lid openings and closings in position 12 after lid opening / closing operation,

Claims

1. A case that can hold and store containers inside, A storage cabinet capable of holding multiple of the aforementioned cases, A control unit for controlling the storage unit, Equipped with, The control unit, A counting unit that obtains a first value calculated based on the number of times the container has been inserted into the case or the number of times the container has been removed from the case for each of the multiple cases, Based on the first value, a determination unit determines the case into which the container transported from the outside should be inserted next, A container storage device characterized by being equipped with the following features.

2. In the container storage device according to claim 1, The aforementioned storage facility has multiple areas, Each of the multiple regions is configured to accommodate the multiple cases, The counting unit acquires a second value for each of the plurality of regions, calculated based on the number of times the container was inserted or the number of times the container was removed. The container storage device is characterized in that the determination unit determines the region into which the container transported from the outside should next be inserted, based on the second value.

3. In the container storage device according to claim 2, The container storage device is characterized in that the control unit includes a storage unit that stores the first value for each of the plurality of cases, and the determination unit controls the storage unit to prevent the container from being stored in the same area twice in a row, based on the history of the storage unit.

4. In the container storage device according to claim 3, The container storage device is characterized in that the case has a first opening formed therein, from which the container can be inserted and removed, a lid that can open and close the first opening, and a packing that seals the inside of the case 203 with the lid.

5. In the container storage device according to claim 4, The first value is the cumulative number of times the lid of the case is opened and closed. A container storage device characterized in that the second value is the value obtained by dividing the sum of the first values ​​for all cases in a predetermined region by the total number of cases in that region.

6. In the container storage device according to claim 5, The aforementioned storage unit is equipped with a horizontally rotating disk inside, The disk is configured to be able to fix the case, A container storage device characterized in that the storage cabinet has a second opening that can be connected to the outside, and is equipped with a storage cabinet shutter that can open and close the second opening.

7. In the container storage device according to claim 6, A container transport mechanism for inserting the container into the case and removing it from the case, A lid opening and closing mechanism for opening and closing the lid of the aforementioned case, A container storage device characterized by being equipped with the following features.

8. In the container storage device according to claim 7, The container storage device is characterized in that the first value is the number of times the lid opening and closing operation was successfully completed after the lid opening and closing mechanism performed the operation of opening and closing the lid of the case.

9. In the container storage device according to claim 8, A transfer line for transporting the rack on which the aforementioned containers are placed, A storage section for storing the aforementioned racks, A rack loading line for bringing in the aforementioned racks from the outside, A rack unloading line for unloading the aforementioned racks to the outside, A container storage device characterized by being equipped with the following features.

10. In the container storage device according to claim 9, The storage unit stores information about the container held in the case, The storage unit stores the information even after the container has been discharged from the case. The container storage device is characterized in that, when the container that has been discharged outside the case is to be stored again in the storage unit, the decision unit decides, based on the information, to store it in the same case.

11. In the method of storing containers in a storage facility, For each of the multiple cases held in the storage facility and capable of holding and storing containers inside, a first value is obtained based on the number of times the container has been inserted into the case or the number of times the container has been removed from the case. Based on the first value, the case in which the container transported from the outside should be inserted next is determined. A container storage method characterized by the following features.

12. In the container storage method described in claim 11, The aforementioned storage facility has multiple areas, Each of the multiple regions is configured to accommodate the multiple cases, For each of the multiple regions, a second value is obtained, calculated based on the number of times the container was inserted or removed. A container storage method characterized by determining the region into which the container, which has been transported from the outside, should next be inserted, based on the second value.

13. In the container storage method described in claim 12, For each of the multiple cases, the first value is stored in the storage unit. A container storage method characterized by controlling the storage so that the container is not stored in the same area twice in a row, based on the storage history of the storage unit.

14. In the container storage method described in claim 13, The case comprises a first opening through which the container can be inserted and removed, and a lid that can open and close the first opening. The first value is the cumulative number of times the lid of the case is opened and closed. A container storage method characterized in that the second value is the value obtained by dividing the sum of the first values ​​in all cases within a predetermined region by the total number of cases within that region.

15. In the container storage method described in claim 14, The storage unit stores information about the container held in the case, The storage unit stores the information even after the container has been discharged from the case. A container storage method characterized in that, when the container that has been discharged outside the case is to be stored again in the storage facility, it is decided to store it in the same case based on the information.

16. A container storage device and an automatic analyzer according to claim 1, Equipped with, The aforementioned automated analyzer is Sample container loading / unloading unit, Sample container transport line, Analysis unit, An automated analysis system characterized by having the following features.

17. In the automated analysis system according to claim 16, A transfer line for transporting the rack on which the aforementioned containers are placed, A storage section for storing the aforementioned racks, A rack loading line for bringing in the aforementioned racks from the outside, A rack unloading line for unloading the aforementioned racks to the outside, An automated analysis system characterized by having the following features.

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