Stirring bar and automated analyzer

Abstract

To improve data performance.SOLUTION: A stirrer according to an embodiment comprises: a stirring part that stirs a mixture of a sample and a reagent in a reaction vessel into which the sample and the reagent are dispensed, wherein a cross section of the stirring part orthogonal to a longitudinal direction has two pairs of opposite outwardly-projecting apices, two line segments connecting the apices of the pairs are orthogonal to each other on the cross section, and the shape of the cross section is formed into a line symmetrical shape with respect to each of the line segments connecting the apices of the pairs; and an attachment part for attaching the stirring part.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0005]

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

Background Art

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

[0003] Conventionally, an automatic analyzer has a stirrer that uniformly stirs a mixed solution of a sample and a reagent dispensed into a reaction vessel. The automatic analyzer uniformly stirs the mixed solution in the reaction vessel by rotating this stirrer in the mixed solution. Generally, a rectangular shape has been used for the shape of this stirrer from the viewpoint of manufacturing cost and the like.

[0004] However, when a rectangular stirrer rotates at high speed while stirring the mixed solution in the reaction vessel, the axis of the stirrer shakes, so the mixed solution cannot be uniformly stirred, and there is a possibility that the data performance may deteriorate. Also, in order to reduce the shaking of the axis of the stirrer, if the mixed solution in the reaction vessel is stirred without rotating at high speed, the mixed solution in the reaction vessel cannot be efficiently stirred, and similar to the case of rotating at high speed, there is a possibility that the data performance may deteriorate. For this reason, in the stirrer used in an automatic analyzer, it is desired to improve the data performance while avoiding problems such as the inability to efficiently stir the mixed solution in the reaction vessel due to the shaking of the axis of the stirrer.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

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

[0007] The stirring bar according to the embodiment is a stirring section for stirring a mixture of the sample and the reagent in a reaction vessel in which the sample and the reagent have been dispensed, and comprises a stirring section having a cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the stirring section having two pairs of opposing outwardly convex vertices, two line segments connecting the pairs of vertices in the cross section being perpendicular to each other, and the shape of the cross section being formed to be symmetric with respect to each of the line segments connecting the pairs of vertices, and a mounting section for attaching the stirring section. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] A block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of an automated analyzer according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 1 shows an example of the configuration of the analytical mechanism in the automated analyzer. [Figure 3] Figure 2 shows a top view of the photometric unit included in the analysis mechanism. [Figure 4] Figure 2 shows a side view of the photometric unit included in the analysis mechanism. [Figure 5] Figure 2 shows another example of the photometric unit included in the analysis mechanism, viewed from above. [Figure 6] A diagram showing an example of the shape of a stirring bar according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7]A comparative explanatory diagram for comparing and explaining the cross-sectional shape of the stirrer according to the comparative example and the cross-sectional shape of the stirrer according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8] A comparative explanatory diagram for comparing and explaining the cross-sectional shape of the stirrer according to the comparative example and the cross-sectional shape of the stirrer according to the first embodiment. [Figure 9] A flowchart diagram for explaining the content of the cleaning control process executed by the automatic analyzer according to the first embodiment. [Figure 10] A conceptual diagram for explaining an operation example of the cleaning control process executed by the automatic analyzer according to the first embodiment. [Figure 11] A flowchart diagram for explaining the content of the stirring control process executed by the automatic analyzer according to the first embodiment. [Figure 12] A conceptual diagram for explaining an operation example of the stirring control process executed by the automatic analyzer according to the first embodiment. [Figure 13] A diagram showing an example of the shape of the stirrer according to the second embodiment. [Figure 14] A diagram showing an example of the shape of the stirrer according to the second embodiment. [Figure 15] A diagram for explaining the cross-sectional shape according to the second embodiment. [Figure 16] A diagram showing an example of the shape of the stirrer according to the third embodiment. [Figure 17] An explanatory diagram for explaining the cross-sectional shape according to the third embodiment. [Figure 18] A diagram showing an example of the shape of the stirrer according to Modification 1 of the first to third embodiments. [Figure 19] A diagram showing an example of the shape of the stirrer according to Modification 2 of the first to third embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

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

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

[0011] The analysis mechanism 2 generates a mixed solution by mixing a blood sample, which is a specimen of a subject, and a coagulation reagent, which is a reagent used for each test item. Further, depending on the test item, the analysis mechanism 2 mixes a standard solution diluted at a predetermined magnification and a reagent used for this test item. The analysis mechanism 2 continuously measures the optical physical property values of the mixed solution of the blood sample and the reagent and the mixed solution of the standard solution and the reagent. By this measurement, for example, standard data and test data represented by transmitted light intensity, absorbance, scattered light intensity, etc. are generated.

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

[0013] The drive mechanism 4 drives the analysis mechanism 2 according to the control of the control circuit 9. The drive mechanism 4 is realized, for example, by gears, stepping motors, belt conveyors, lead screws, etc. In particular, the drive mechanism 4 includes a stirrer drive mechanism 41 for driving a stirrer described later. Note that the stirrer drive mechanism 41 constitutes the stirrer drive unit in this embodiment.

[0014] The input interface 5 accepts settings such as analysis parameters for each test item related to a blood sample requested for measurement by the user or via the hospital network NW. The input interface 5 is implemented by, for example, a mouse, keyboard, and a touchpad on which instructions are input by touching the operating surface. The input interface 5 is connected to the control circuit 9, converts the operation instructions input by the user into electrical signals, and outputs the electrical signals to the control circuit 9. In this specification, the input interface 5 is not limited to those equipped with physical operating components such as a mouse and keyboard. For example, an electrical signal processing circuit that receives electrical signals corresponding to operation instructions input from an external input device provided separately from the automatic analyzer 1 and outputs these electrical signals to the control circuit 9 is also included as an example of the input interface 5.

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

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

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

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

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

[0020] Figure 2 shows an example of the configuration of the analysis mechanism 2 in the automated analyzer 1 shown in Figure 1. As shown in Figure 2, the analysis mechanism 2 according to this embodiment is configured to include a reaction disk 201, a constant temperature unit 202, a rack sampler 203, and a reagent storage unit 204.

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

[0022] The constant temperature unit 202 stores a heat transfer medium set to a predetermined temperature and raises the temperature of the mixed liquid contained in the reaction vessel 2011 by immersing the reaction vessel 2011 in the stored heat transfer medium.

[0023] The rack sampler 203 provides movable support for a sample rack 2031 capable of holding multiple sample containers, each containing blood samples that have been requested for measurement. In the example shown in Figure 2, a sample rack 2031 capable of holding five sample containers in parallel is shown.

[0024] The rack sampler 203 is provided with a transport area 2032 for transporting sample racks 2031. That is, using this transport area 2032, the sample racks 2031 are transported from the input position where they are placed to the collection position where the sample racks 2031 are retrieved after measurement is complete. In the transport area 2032, multiple sample racks 2031 aligned in the longitudinal direction are moved in direction D1 by the drive mechanism 4.

[0025] Furthermore, the rack sampler 203 is provided with a retraction area 2033 that retracts the sample rack 2031 from the transport area 2032 in order to move the sample container held by the sample rack 2031 to a predetermined sample aspiration position. The sample aspiration position is set at a position where, for example, the rotational trajectory of the sample dispensing probe 207 intersects with the movement trajectory of the opening of the sample container supported by the rack sampler 203 and held by the sample rack 2031. In the retraction area 2033, the transported sample rack 2031 is moved in direction D2 by the drive mechanism 4.

[0026] Furthermore, the rack sampler 203 is provided with a return area 2034 for returning the sample rack 2031, which holds the sample container in which the sample has been aspirated, to the transport area. In the return area 2034, the sample rack 2031 is moved in direction D3 by the drive mechanism 4.

[0027] The reagent cabinet 204 holds multiple reagent containers 100 containing standard solutions and reagents used in various tests performed on blood samples, while keeping them cool. A rotating table is rotatably mounted inside the reagent cabinet 204. The rotating table holds the multiple reagent containers 100 in a ring-like arrangement. In this embodiment, although not shown in Figure 2, the reagent cabinet 204 is covered by a removable reagent cover.

[0028] Furthermore, the analysis mechanism 2 according to this embodiment, shown in Figure 2, comprises a sample dispensing arm 206, a sample dispensing probe 207, a reagent dispensing arm 208, a reagent dispensing probe 209, and a photometric unit 210.

[0029] The sample dispensing arm 206 is positioned between the reaction disk 201 and the rack sampler 203. The sample dispensing arm 206 is provided by a drive mechanism 4 so as to be able to move vertically up and down and rotate horizontally. The sample dispensing arm 206 holds a sample dispensing probe 207 at one end.

[0030] The sample dispensing probe 207 rotates along an arc-shaped rotational trajectory as the sample dispensing arm 206 rotates. A sample aspiration position is provided on this rotational trajectory for aspirating a sample from a sample container held by a sample rack 2031 on the rack sampler 203. Additionally, a sample dispensing position is provided on the rotational trajectory of the sample dispensing probe 207 for dispensing the sample aspirated by the sample dispensing probe 207 into the reaction vessel 2011. The sample dispensing position corresponds, for example, to the intersection of the rotational trajectory of the sample dispensing probe 207 and the movement trajectory of the reaction vessel 2011 held on the reaction disk 201.

[0031] The sample dispensing probe 207 is driven by the drive mechanism 4 and moves vertically at the sample aspiration position or the sample dispensing position. The sample dispensing probe 207 also aspirates a sample from the sample container located directly below the sample aspiration position, according to the control circuit 9. The sample dispensing probe 207 also dispenses the aspirated sample into the reaction vessel 2011 located directly below the sample dispensing position, according to the control circuit 9.

[0032] The reagent dispensing arm 208 is located between the reaction disk 201 and the reagent storage compartment 204. The reagent dispensing arm 208 is provided by a drive mechanism 4 so as to be able to move vertically up and down and rotate horizontally. The reagent dispensing arm 208 holds a reagent dispensing probe 209 at one end.

[0033] The reagent dispensing probe 209 rotates along an arc-shaped rotational trajectory as the reagent dispensing arm 208 rotates. A reagent aspiration position is provided on this rotational trajectory. The reagent aspiration position is, for example, located at the intersection of the rotational trajectory of the reagent dispensing probe 209 and the movement trajectory of the opening of the reagent container 100, which is placed in an annular shape on the rotating table of the reagent storage 204. Additionally, a reagent dispensing position is set on the rotational trajectory of the reagent dispensing probe 209 for dispensing the reagent aspirationd by the reagent dispensing probe 209 into the reaction vessel 2011. The reagent dispensing position corresponds, for example, to the intersection of the rotational trajectory of the reagent dispensing probe 209 and the movement trajectory of the reaction vessel 2011 held on the reaction disk 201.

[0034] The reagent dispensing probe 209 is driven by the drive mechanism 4 and moves vertically at the reagent aspiration position or reagent dispensing position on its rotational trajectory. The reagent dispensing probe 209 also aspirates reagent from the reagent container stopped at the reagent aspiration position, according to the control circuit 9. The reagent dispensing probe 209 also dispenses the aspirated reagent into the reaction vessel 2011 located directly below the reagent dispensing position, according to the control circuit 9.

[0035] Furthermore, in the analysis mechanism 2 according to this embodiment, the same number of photometric units as the number of reaction vessels 2011 that can be held in the reaction disk 201 are provided inside. These photometric units constitute the photometric section in this embodiment. Figures 3 and 4 are schematic diagrams showing examples of the configuration of the photometric unit 210. Figure 3 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the positional relationship of each component when the photometric unit 210 is viewed from above the reaction disk 201. Figure 4 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the positional relationship of each component when the photometric unit 210 is viewed from the cross-sectional direction of the reaction disk 201.

[0036] The photometric unit 210 continuously measures the optical properties of the mixture of sample and reagent dispensed into the reaction vessel 2011. In the analytical mechanism 2 according to this embodiment, multiple photometric units 210 are provided. For example, the number of photometric units 210 is equal to the number of reaction vessels that can be held by the reaction disk 201. That is, one photometric unit 210 is provided for each reaction vessel held by the reaction disk 201. Since the configuration of each photometric unit 210 is the same, Figures 3 and 4 show one photometric unit 210 as a representative example.

[0037] The photometric unit 210 shown in Figures 3 and 4 includes, for example, a light source 2101 and photodetectors 2102 and 2103. For example, the photometric unit 210 has the light source 2101 on the annular center side of the reaction vessel 2011, which is held annularly by the reaction disk 201. The light source 2101 is positioned to irradiate light toward the outside of the ring in which the reaction vessels 2011 are arranged. Note that the photodetectors 2102 and 2103 may consist of only one of these.

[0038] The light source 2101 generates light of two different wavelengths. For example, the light source 2101 generates a first light with a longer wavelength and a second light with a shorter wavelength. For example, the wavelength of the first light is included in the red wavelength range of 620-750 nm, and the wavelength of the second light is included in the violet to blue wavelength range of 380-495 nm. Note that the wavelengths of the first and second light may each be included in the red wavelength range of 620-750 nm. The light source 2101 can be realized by, for example, a multi-wavelength LED capable of generating light of multiple wavelengths, two LEDs that each generate light of a predetermined wavelength, and a light source unit that transmits light of a desired wavelength from a wide wavelength range using a filter.

[0039] The light source 2101 generates first and second light according to the control of the control circuit 9. Specifically, for example, the light source 2101 alternately generates first and second light at a predetermined period. In this case, for example, the light source 2101 alternately generates first and second light at a period of 0.05 seconds, which is half of the smallest measurement unit of solidification, for example, 0.1 seconds. The light irradiated from the light source 2101 is incident on the reaction vessel 2011.

[0040] The light source 2101 may generate light of one wavelength specified by the control circuit 9. Alternatively, the light source 2101 may generate the first and second wavelengths of light simultaneously. However, in this case, filters for excluding unwanted wavelengths of light must be provided in the photodetectors 2102 and 2103.

[0041] The photodetector 2102 is positioned opposite the light source 2101, with the reaction vessel 2011 in between. Light emitted from the light source 2101 enters the reaction vessel 2011 from the first side wall and exits from the second side wall opposite the first side wall. The photodetector 2102 detects the light emitted from the reaction vessel 2011. The photodetector 2102 is, for example, an example of a transmitted light receiving unit.

[0042] Specifically, for example, the photodetector 2102 detects light transmitted through a mixture of standard solution and reagent in the reaction vessel 2011. The photodetector 2102 samples the detected light at predetermined time intervals, for example, every 0.1 seconds, and generates standard data represented by transmitted light intensity or absorbance. The predetermined time interval is synchronized, for example, with the frequency of the first light. The photodetector 2102 may also be configured to detect only light with a wavelength corresponding to the wavelength of the first light. The photodetector 2102 also detects light transmitted through a mixture of blood sample and reagent in the reaction vessel 2011. The photodetector 2102 samples the detected light at predetermined time intervals and generates test data represented by transmitted light intensity or absorbance. The photodetector 2102 outputs the generated standard data and test data to the analysis circuit 3.

[0043] The photodetector 2103 is positioned so that the irradiation axis of the light from the light source 2101 and the light receiving axis of the photodetector 2103 intersect at approximately 90 degrees within the reaction vessel 2011. Light emitted from the light source 2101 enters the reaction vessel 2011 from the first side wall, is scattered by particles in the mixed liquid, and then exits from the third side wall adjacent to the first side wall at a 90-degree angle. The photodetector 2103 detects the light emitted from the reaction vessel 2011. The photodetector 2103 is, for example, an example of a scattered light receiving unit.

[0044] Specifically, for example, the photodetector 2103 detects light scattered by the mixture of standard solution and reagent in the reaction vessel 2011. The photodetector 2103 samples the detected light at predetermined time intervals, for example, every 0.1 seconds, and generates standard data represented by scattered light intensity, etc. The predetermined time interval is synchronized, for example, with the frequency of the second light emission. The photodetector 2103 may also be configured to detect only light with a wavelength corresponding to the wavelength of the second light, for example. The photodetector 2103 also detects light scattered by the mixture of blood sample and reagent in the reaction vessel 2011. The photodetector 2103 samples the detected light at predetermined time intervals and generates test data represented by scattered light intensity, etc. The photodetector 2103 outputs the generated standard data and test data to the analysis circuit 3.

[0045] The photodetectors 2102 and 2103 may also output the detected light intensity as a detection signal to the analysis circuit 3. In this case, the analysis circuit 3 samples the detection signal at predetermined time intervals, for example, every 0.1 seconds, and generates standard data and test data.

[0046] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram showing another configuration example of the photometric unit 210 according to this embodiment. Similar to Figure 3, Figure 5 shows an example of the positional relationship of each component when the photometric unit 210 is viewed from above the reaction disk 201. The photometric unit 210 shown in Figure 5 has two LEDs 51 and 52 as light sources 2101. In the example shown in Figure 5, the light irradiation axis of LED 52 is tilted by a predetermined angle with respect to the light irradiation axis of LED 51.

[0047] The photodetector 2102 is positioned opposite the LED 51 across the reaction vessel 2011, similar to the examples in Figures 3 and 4. On the other hand, the photodetector 2103 is positioned such that the light irradiation axis of the LED 52 and the light receiving axis of the photodetector 2103 intersect at approximately 90 degrees within the reaction vessel 2011.

[0048] Furthermore, the analysis mechanism 2 according to this embodiment, shown in Figure 2, comprises a stirring bar arm 211, a stirring bar 212, and a washing tank 213.

[0049] The stirring bar arm 211 is positioned between the reaction disc 201 and the washing tank 213. The stirring bar arm 211 is provided by a drive mechanism 4 so as to be able to move vertically up and down and rotate horizontally. The stirring bar arm 211 also holds a stirring bar 212 at one end.

[0050] The stirring bar 212 rotates along an arc-shaped rotational trajectory as the stirring bar arm 211 rotates. A stirring position is provided on this rotational trajectory for stirring the mixture in the reaction vessel 2011 on the reaction disk 201. A cleaning position is also provided on the rotational trajectory of the stirring bar arm 211 for cleaning the stirring bar 212 used for stirring the mixture in the cleaning tank 213. The stirring position is located above the opening of the reaction vessel 2011, and corresponds, for example, to the intersection of the rotational trajectory of the stirring bar 212 and the movement trajectory of the reaction vessel 2011 held on the reaction disk 201. The cleaning position is located above the opening of the cleaning tank 213, and corresponds, for example, to the intersection of the rotational trajectory of the stirring bar 212 and the opening of the cleaning tank 213.

[0051] The stirring bar 212 moves vertically in the stirring position or washing position by the drive mechanism 4. Furthermore, the stirring bar 212 can stir the liquid by rotating it within the reaction vessel 2011 by driving the stirring bar drive mechanism 41 according to the control of the control circuit 9. In addition, the stirring bar 212 is made of a material such as resin or metal. Note that this stirring bar 212 and the stirring bar drive mechanism 41 constitute the stirring unit in this embodiment.

[0052] The shape of the stirring bar 212 will be described in detail with reference to Figures 6 to 8. Figure 6 is a diagram showing an example of the shape of the stirring bar 212 according to this embodiment, where Figure 6(a) is a front view of the stirring bar 212 according to this embodiment, Figure 6(b) is a bottom view of the stirring bar 212 according to this embodiment, Figure 6(c) is a side view of the stirring bar 212 according to this embodiment, and Figure 6(d) is an AA cross-sectional view showing an example of the cross-sectional shape of the stirring bar 212 according to this embodiment. Figures 7 and 8 are comparative explanatory diagrams for comparing and explaining the cross-sectional shape of the stirring bar according to the comparative example and the cross-sectional shape of the stirring bar 212 according to this embodiment, where Figures 7(a) and 8(a) show the case where the cross-sectional shape of the stirring bar according to the comparative example is rectangular, and Figures 7(b) and 8(b) show the case where the cross-sectional shape of the stirring bar 212 according to this embodiment is rhomboid. As shown in Figure 6, the stirring bar 212 according to this embodiment is configured to include a stirring section 2121 and a mounting section 2122.

[0053] The stirring section 2121 is the part that stirs the mixture in the reaction vessel 2011 into which the sample and reagents have been dispensed. For example, the stirring section 2121 is configured such that the cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the stirring section 2121 has two pairs of opposing outwardly convex vertices, and the two line segments connecting the vertices of the pair are perpendicular to each other in the cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the stirring section 2121, and the shape of the cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the stirring section 2121 is formed to be symmetric with respect to each of the line segments connecting the vertices of the pair.

[0054] Specifically, as shown in Figure 6(d), the stirring section 2121 according to this embodiment has four outwardly convex vertices in a cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the stirring section 2121: vertices a1, b1, c1, and d1. Of these four vertices, vertices a1 and c1 and vertices b1 and d1 are opposite each other, forming pairs of vertices. The line segments LS1 and LS2 are two line segments connecting these pairs of vertices: vertices a1 and c1 and vertices b1 and d1. As shown in Figure 6(d), line segments LS1 and LS2 are perpendicular and have different lengths. The shapes formed by connecting adjacent vertices a1, b1, c1, and d1 with straight lines are symmetrical with respect to line segments LS1 and LS2, respectively. That is, as shown in Figure 6(d), the cross-sectional shape of the stirring section 2121 according to this embodiment is rhombic.

[0055] As shown in Figure 7(b), the rhombus shape is symmetric with respect to line segments LS1 and LS2. When the rhombus shape is rotated around the intersection IP1 of line segments LS1 and LS2, the forces acting on each vertex of the rhombus (e.g., F1 and F2) act symmetrically with respect to line segments LS1 and LS2. In other words, when the cross-sectional shape of the stirring section 2121 is rhombus-shaped, the centrifugal direction is symmetric, making it less likely for the axis of rotation to wobble. Note that in Figure 7(b), for illustrative purposes, line segment LS2 is offset from the center of intersection IP1, but in reality, line segment LS2 is a line segment that passes through the center of intersection IP1. On the other hand, as shown in Figure 7(a), for example, a rectangular shape is not symmetrical with respect to the diagonal line segments LS1a and LS2a. When the rectangular shape is rotated around the intersection IP1a of line segments LS1a and LS2a, the forces acting on each vertex of the rectangular shape (e.g., F1a and F2a) do not act symmetrically with respect to line segments LS1a and LS2a. In other words, when the cross-sectional shape of the stirring section 2121 is rectangular, the centrifugal direction is not symmetrical with respect to line segments LS1a and LS2a, making the axis of rotation prone to wobbling.

[0056] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 8(b), since all four sides of a rhombus shape are of equal length, when the rhombus shape is rotated around the intersection IP1, each of the four sides will experience equal resistance. Therefore, when the cross-sectional shape of the stirring section 2121 is rhombus-shaped, eccentricity is less likely to occur. On the other hand, as shown in Figure 8(a), since two sides of a rectangle are of different lengths, when the rectangle is rotated around the intersection IP1a, each of the two sides will experience different resistance. Therefore, when the cross-sectional shape of the stirring section 2121 is rectangular, eccentricity is more likely to occur.

[0057] In particular, when resin is used as the material for the stirring bar 212, eccentricity is more likely to occur because resin has low rigidity. Therefore, the cross-sectional shape of the stirring section 2121 is important. For this reason, the cross-sectional shape of the stirring section 2121 is preferably symmetrical with respect to each line segment connecting the vertices of the pair, and is preferably a rhombic shape, as is the case with the cross-sectional shape of the stirring section 2121 in this embodiment.

[0058] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 6(a) and 6(c), the shape of the stirring section 2121 according to this embodiment is such that its thickness decreases towards the tip 1 of the stirring section 2121. In other words, the shape of the stirring section 2121 according to this embodiment is formed so that its thickness decreases as it approaches the tip 1 of the stirring section 2121.

[0059] In the example shown in Figure 6(d), line segments LS1 and LS2 had different lengths, but line segments LS1 and LS2 may be of equal length. That is, the cross-sectional shape of the stirring section 2121 according to this embodiment may be, for example, square. Also, in the example shown in Figure 6(d), the adjacent vertices a1, b1, c1, and d1 were connected by straight lines to form a shape symmetric with respect to line segments LS1 and LS2, respectively, but the lines connecting the adjacent vertices a1, b1, c1, and d1 are not limited to straight lines. That is, the type of line connecting the adjacent vertices a1, b1, c1, and d1 is arbitrary, and the adjacent vertices a1, b1, c1, and d1 may be connected by curves, or a combination of straight lines and curves may be used to connect the adjacent vertices a1, b1, c1, and d1.

[0060] The mounting portion 2122 is formed integrally with the stirring portion 2121 and is the part for attaching the stirring portion 2121 to the stirring bar drive mechanism 41. That is, because the mounting portion 2122 is attached to the stirring bar drive mechanism 41, when the stirring bar drive mechanism 41 rotates, the stirring portion 2121 can be rotated via the mounting portion 2122. The cross-sectional shape of the mounting portion 2122 is not particularly limited. That is, the cross-sectional shape of the mounting portion 2122 is arbitrary, and for example, it may be the same rhomboid shape as the cross-sectional shape of the stirring portion 2121, or it may be a different shape from the stirring portion 2121, such as a circular shape, elliptical shape, or square shape.

[0061] The stirring section 2121 and the mounting section 2122 have a rotation axis AX1 that passes through the intersection IP1 where line segments LS1 and LS2 intersect orthogonally and is aligned with the longitudinal direction of the stirring section 2121. That is, since the stirring section 2121 and the mounting section 2122 have the same rotation axis, the rotation axis of the stirring bar 212 is also the rotation axis AX1. The stirring bar driving mechanism 41 rotates the stirring bar 212 with the rotation axis AX1 of the stirring bar 212 as the center of rotation according to this embodiment.

[0062] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the stirring section 2121 and the mounting section 2122 are made of a single material because they are integrally formed. However, the stirring section 2121 and the mounting section 2122 may be made of different materials.

[0063] The cleaning tank 213 is a container capable of storing cleaning solution for cleaning the stirring bar 212 after stirring the mixture in the reaction vessel 2011. The cleaning tank 213 can be used to store the cleaning solution by, for example, closing a solenoid valve, and to discharge the cleaning solution from the cleaning tank 213 by opening the solenoid valve. The cleaning tank 213 may be used to clean the stirring bar 212 by, for example, immersing it in the cleaning solution, or to perform ultrasonic cleaning using the cleaning solution in the cleaning tank 213.

[0064] The control circuit 9 shown in Figure 1 realizes the functions corresponding to the control program stored in the memory circuit 8 by executing the program. For example, the control circuit 9 has a system control function 91 and a stirrer control function 92 by executing the control program. In this embodiment, the case in which the system control function 91 and the stirrer control function 92 are realized by a single processor is described, but it is not limited to this. For example, the control circuit may be configured by combining multiple independent processors, and these various functions may be realized by each processor executing a control program.

[0065] The system control function 91 is a function that comprehensively controls each part of the automatic analyzer 1 based on input information received from the input interface 5. For example, in the system control function 91, the control circuit 9 controls the drive mechanism 4 and the analysis mechanism 2, thereby controlling the sample dispensing arm 206 and the reagent dispensing arm 208 to dispense samples and reagents into the reaction vessel 2011, and also controls the analysis circuit 3 to perform analysis according to the test items.

[0066] The stirring bar control function 92 controls the stirring bar arm 211 and the stirring bar 212 attached to the stirring bar arm 211 by controlling the analysis mechanism 2 and the drive mechanism 4. Specifically, the stirring bar control function 92 controls the stirring bar arm 211 to move the stirring bar 212 to the stirring position and to stir the mixture in the reaction vessel 2011. The stirring bar control function 92 also controls the stirring bar arm 211 to move the stirring bar 212 to the washing position and to wash the stirring bar 212.

[0067] Furthermore, the system control function 91 and the stirrer control function 92 shown in Figure 1 constitute the system control unit and the stirrer control unit, respectively, in this embodiment.

[0068] Next, with reference to Figures 9 and 10, an example of the operation of the automatic analyzer 1 in this embodiment at the cleaning position of the stirrer 212 will be described. Figure 9 is a flowchart illustrating the contents of the cleaning control process performed by the automatic analyzer 1 in this embodiment. Figure 10 is a conceptual diagram illustrating an example of the operation of the cleaning control process performed by the automatic analyzer 1 in this embodiment. In the cleaning control process shown in Figure 9, the automatic analyzer 1 controls the stirrer arm 211 to immerse the stirrer 212 in the cleaning solution in the cleaning tank 213 and clean the stirrer 212. This cleaning control process is performed, for example, after stirring the mixed liquid in the reaction vessel 2011.

[0069] As shown in Figure 9, first, the automatic analyzer 1 moves the agitator 212 to the cleaning position (step S11). This process of moving to the cleaning position is realized by the agitator control function 92 in the control circuit 9. Specifically, the automatic analyzer 1 controls the agitator arm 211 to move the agitator 212 to the cleaning position, which is a position above the opening of the cleaning tank 213.

[0070] Next, as shown in Figure 9, the automatic analyzer 1 lowers the stirring bar 212 (step S13). This process of lowering the stirring bar 212 is realized by the stirring bar control function 92 in the control circuit 9. Specifically, the automatic analyzer 1 controls the stirring bar arm 211 to lower the stirring bar 212 to the cleaning liquid in the cleaning tank 213 at the cleaning position. More specifically, the automatic analyzer 1 lowers the tip of the stirring bar 212, which has been moved to the cleaning position which is above the opening of the cleaning tank 213 as shown in Figure 10(a), so that it is immersed in the cleaning liquid in the cleaning tank 213 as shown in Figure 10(b).

[0071] Next, as shown in Figure 9, the automatic analyzer 1 cleans the stirring bar 212 (step S15). This cleaning of the stirring bar 212 is performed by the stirring bar control function 92 in the control circuit 9. Specifically, the automatic analyzer 1 immerses the stirring bar 212 in the cleaning solution in the cleaning tank 213 to clean it. In step S15, the automatic analyzer 1 may also drive the stirring bar drive mechanism 41 to rotate the stirring bar 212 immersed in the cleaning solution in the cleaning tank 213, thereby cleaning the stirring bar 212. Furthermore, to enhance the cleaning effect, the cleaning tank 213 may be subjected to ultrasonic cleaning.

[0072] Next, as shown in Figure 9, the automatic analyzer 1 raises the stirring bar 212 at a first speed (step S17). This process of raising the stirring bar 212 at a first speed is realized by the stirring bar control function 92 in the control circuit 9. Specifically, the automatic analyzer 1 controls the stirring bar arm 211 to raise the stirring bar 212 at a first speed. More specifically, the automatic analyzer 1 raises the tip of the stirring bar 212, which is immersed in the cleaning liquid in the cleaning tank 213 shown in Figure 10(b), to a position above the liquid surface of the cleaning liquid shown in Figure 10(c) at a low speed, which is the first speed. By raising the stirring bar 212 at a low speed from within the cleaning liquid to a position above the liquid surface of the cleaning liquid in this way, the cleaning liquid adhering to the stirring bar 212 can be moved to the liquid surface side by the effect of surface tension. The automatic analyzer 1 can reduce the amount of residual cleaning liquid adhering to the stirring bar 212.

[0073] Next, as shown in Figure 9, the automatic analyzer 1 rotates the stirring bar 212 (step S19). This rotation of the stirring bar 212 is achieved by the stirring bar control function 92 in the control circuit 9. Specifically, as shown in Figure 10(c), after the tip of the stirring bar 212 reaches a position above the liquid surface of the cleaning solution, the automatic analyzer 1 controls the stirring bar drive mechanism 41 to rotate the stirring bar 212 at a position above the liquid surface of the cleaning solution. By rotating the stirring bar 212 at a position above the liquid surface of the cleaning solution in this way, the cleaning solution adhering to the stirring bar 212 can be removed. Therefore, the amount of residual cleaning solution adhering to the stirring bar 212 can be further reduced.

[0074] In step S19, the automatic analyzer 1 may rotate the agitator 212 while raising it before the tip of the agitator 212 reaches a position above the liquid surface of the washing solution; or it may stop raising the agitator 212 and rotate it after the tip of the agitator 212 reaches a position above the liquid surface of the washing solution; or it may rotate the agitator 212 while raising it after the tip of the agitator 212 reaches a position above the liquid surface of the washing solution.

[0075] Next, as shown in Figure 9, the automatic analyzer 1 raises the agitator 212 at a second speed (step S21). The process of raising the agitator 212 at a second speed is realized by the agitator control function 92 in the control circuit 9. Specifically, the automatic analyzer 1 controls the agitator arm 211 to raise the agitator 212 at a second speed. More specifically, as shown in Figure 10(c), in step S17, after reaching a position above the liquid surface of the washing solution, the automatic analyzer 1 raises the tip of the agitator 212 to the washing position, which is above the opening of the washing tank 213, at a second speed faster than the first speed. In this way, by raising the agitator 212 from the position above the liquid surface of the washing solution to the washing position at a second speed faster than the first speed, the time required to rise to the washing position can be shortened compared to when it is raised from the washing solution to the washing position at the first speed, thus avoiding a decrease in throughput.

[0076] The automated analyzer 1 terminates the washing control process according to this embodiment by executing step S21.

[0077] In addition, in the cleaning control process, the rotation of the stirring bar 212 in step S19 can be omitted. That is, the automatic analyzer 1 may raise the tip of the stirring bar 212, which is immersed in the cleaning solution in the cleaning tank 213, to a position above the liquid surface of the cleaning solution at a first speed, and then raise the tip of the stirring bar 212 to a position above the opening of the cleaning tank 213 at a second speed without rotating the stirring bar 212.

[0078] Next, with reference to Figures 11 and 12, an example of the operation of the stirring bar 212 at the stirring position of the automatic analyzer 1 according to this embodiment will be described. Figure 11 is a flowchart illustrating the contents of the stirring control process performed by the automatic analyzer 1 according to this embodiment. Figure 12 is a conceptual diagram illustrating an example of the operation of the stirring control process performed by the automatic analyzer 1 according to this embodiment. In the stirring control process shown in Figure 9, the automatic analyzer 1 controls the stirring bar arm 211 to stir the mixture in the reaction vessel 2011 with the stirring bar 212. For example, this stirring control process is performed when the reaction vessel 2011 to be stirred moves to a predetermined position.

[0079] As shown in Figure 11, first, the automatic analyzer 1 moves the stirring bar 212 to the stirring position (step S31). This process of moving to the stirring position is realized by the stirring bar control function 92 in the control circuit 9. Specifically, the automatic analyzer 1 controls the stirring bar arm 211 to move the stirring bar 212 to the stirring position, which is above the opening of the reaction vessel 2011.

[0080] Next, as shown in Figure 11, the automatic analyzer 1 lowers the stirring bar 212 (step S33). This process of lowering the stirring bar 212 is realized by the stirring bar control function 92 in the control circuit 9. Specifically, the automatic analyzer 1 controls the stirring bar arm 211 to lower the stirring bar 212 to the mixed liquid in the reaction vessel 2011 at the stirring position.

[0081] Next, as shown in Figure 11, the automatic analyzer 1 stirs the mixture (step S35). This stirring of the mixture is achieved by the stirrer control function 92 in the control circuit 9. Specifically, the automatic analyzer 1 controls the stirrer drive mechanism 41 to rotate the stirrer 212 inside the reaction vessel 2011, thereby stirring the mixture inside the reaction vessel 2011. In step S35, the stirrer drive mechanism 41 rotates the stirrer 212 with the rotation axis AX1, which is aligned with the longitudinal direction of the stirrer 212 as the center of rotation, as shown in Figure 6. This allows the automatic analyzer 1 to rotate the stirrer 212 without the rotation axis AX1 wobbling.

[0082] Next, as shown in Figure 11, the automatic analyzer 1 raises the stirring bar 212 at a third speed (step S37). This process of raising the stirring bar 212 at a third speed is realized by the stirring bar control function 92 in the control circuit 9. Specifically, the automatic analyzer 1 controls the stirring bar arm 211 to raise the stirring bar 212 at a third speed. More specifically, the automatic analyzer 1 raises the tip of the stirring bar 212, which is immersed in the mixed liquid in the reaction vessel 2011 shown in Figure 12(a), to a predetermined position above the liquid surface of the mixed liquid shown in Figure 12(b) at a low speed, which is the third speed. By raising the stirring bar 212 at a low speed from within the mixed liquid to a predetermined position above the liquid surface of the mixed liquid in this way, the mixed liquid adhering to the stirring bar 212 can be moved to the liquid surface side by the effect of surface tension. In other words, the automatic analyzer 1 can reduce the amount of residual mixed liquid adhering to the stirring bar 212.

[0083] Next, as shown in Figure 11, the automatic analyzer 1 raises the stirring bar 212 at a fourth speed (step S39). The process of raising the stirring bar 212 at a fourth speed is realized by the stirring bar control function 92 in the control circuit 9. Specifically, the automatic analyzer 1 controls the stirring bar arm 211 to raise the stirring bar 212 at a fourth speed. More specifically, as shown in Figure 12(b), in step S37, after reaching a position above the liquid surface of the mixture, the automatic analyzer 1 raises the tip of the stirring bar 212 at a fourth speed faster than the third speed to the stirring position, which is above the opening of the reaction vessel 2011. In this way, by raising the stirring bar from a predetermined position above the liquid surface of the mixture to the stirring position at a fourth speed faster than the third speed, the time required to rise to the stirring position can be shortened compared to when it is raised from within the mixture to the stirring position at a third speed, thus avoiding a decrease in throughput.

[0084] The automatic analyzer 1 terminates the stirring control process according to this embodiment by executing step S39.

[0085] As described above, according to the automatic analyzer 1 of this embodiment, the automatic analyzer 1 is equipped with a stirring bar 212 for stirring the mixed liquid in the reaction vessel 2011. The cross-section of the stirring section 2121 of the stirring bar 212 has two pairs of opposing outwardly convex vertices, and the two line segments connecting the vertices of the pair in the cross-section of the stirring section 2121 are orthogonal to each of the line segments connecting the vertices of the pair, so that the shape of the cross-section of the stirring section 2121 is a rhombic shape which is symmetrical with respect to each of the line segments connecting the vertices of the pair. Therefore, when the stirring bar 212 is rotated to stir the mixed liquid in the reaction vessel 2011, the mixture can be stirred efficiently, and thus the data performance can be improved. In other words, in this embodiment, the automatic analyzer 1 uses a stirring bar 212 whose stirring section 2121 has a rhombic cross-section to stir the mixed liquid in the reaction vessel 2011. Therefore, even when the stirring bar 212 is rotated at high speed, the axis of the stirring bar 212 is less likely to wobble, the mixed liquid can be stirred uniformly, and the data performance can be improved.

[0086] Furthermore, the stirring bar 212 according to this embodiment has a shape that becomes thinner towards the tip TIP1 of the stirring section 2121. Therefore, when the stirring section 2121 is detached from the mixed liquid or washing water, any remaining liquid such as the mixed liquid or washing water adhering to the stirring section 2121 can be transferred to the mixed liquid or washing water side by surface tension, making it less likely for any remaining liquid to remain on the stirring section 2121. As a result, the stirring bar 212 can reduce the amount of remaining liquid adhering to the stirring section 2121, and the possibility of bringing washing water into the reaction vessel 2011 where stirring will be performed next is reduced. In other words, the introduction of washing water into the reaction vessel 2011 can cause dilution of the mixed liquid in the reaction vessel 2011, which is a factor that can cause measurement errors in the amount of components in the mixed liquid, thus enabling the acquisition of stable data.

[0087] [Second Embodiment] In the automatic analyzer 1 according to the first embodiment described above, the shape of the stirring bar 212 is defined as a rhomboid shape in the cross-section of the stirring section 2121, but it is not limited to this. In the second embodiment, the shape of the stirring bar 212 is defined as a shape in which the cross-section of the stirring section 2121 is defined as a shape in which one pair of vertices of two pairs of vertices is connected by a pair of arc-shaped curves. The following describes the parts that differ from the first embodiment described above. Note that the configuration of the automatic analyzer 1 and analysis mechanism 2 according to the second embodiment is equivalent to that of Figures 1 and 2, so the description is omitted. Also, the configuration of the photometric unit 210 and other configurations according to the second embodiment are equivalent to those of Figures 3, 4, and 5 according to the first embodiment, so the description is omitted. Furthermore, the contents of the washing control process and stirring control process are equivalent to those of Figures 9 to 12, so the description is omitted.

[0088] The shape of the stirring bar 212 according to this embodiment will be described in detail with reference to Figures 13 to 15. Figure 13 is a diagram showing an example of the shape of the stirring bar 212 according to the second embodiment, and corresponds to Figure 6 in the first embodiment described above. Figure 13(a) is a front view of the stirring bar 212 according to this embodiment, Figure 13(b) is a bottom view of the stirring bar 212 according to this embodiment, Figure 13(c) is a side view of the stirring bar 212 according to this embodiment, and Figure 13(d) is a BB cross-sectional view showing an example of the cross-sectional shape of the stirring bar according to this embodiment. Figure 14 is a diagram showing an example of the shape of the stirring bar 212 according to the second embodiment. Figure 15 is a diagram illustrating the cross-sectional shape of the stirring bar 212 according to the second embodiment. As shown in Figure 13, the stirring bar 212 according to this embodiment is configured to include a stirring section 2121a and a mounting section 2122. The configuration of the mounting section 2122 is the same as that of the first embodiment, so its description will be omitted.

[0089] The stirring section 2121a is the part that stirs the mixture in the reaction vessel 2011 into which the sample and reagents have been dispensed. In this embodiment, the shape of the cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the stirring section 2121a is, for example, an arc-ellipse shape in which one pair of vertices is connected by a pair of arc-shaped curves. Specifically, the arc-ellipse shape of the cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the stirring section 2121a is, as shown in Figure 14, a shape in which the pair of vertices, vertex a2 and vertex c2, are connected by a pair of arc-shaped curves consisting of an arc-shaped curve CA1 with radius R centered at center O1 and an arc-shaped curve CA2 with radius R centered at center O2.

[0090] In the explanation of Figure 14 above, the arc-shaped curve was described as the arc of a perfect circle with radius R, but the arc-shaped curve is not limited to the arc of a perfect circle. The arc-shaped curve may be, for example, an arc-shaped curve composed of multiple arcs of different radii, an elliptical arc-shaped curve, or any other type of arc-shaped curve.

[0091] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 13(d), the stirring section 2121a according to this embodiment has, in addition to vertices a2 and c2, vertices b2 and d2 in a cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the stirring section 2121a. These vertices b2 and d2 are formed at the midpoints between vertices a2 and c2 in the arc-shaped curve CA1 and the arc-shaped curve CA2, respectively. Of these four vertices, vertices a2 and c2 and vertices b2 and d2 face each other, forming pairs of vertices. The line segments LS3 and LS4 are two line segments connecting the pairs of vertices a2 and c2 and vertices b2 and d2. As shown in Figure 13(d), these line segments LS3 and LS4 are perpendicular and have different lengths.

[0092] As shown in Figure 15, this arc-shaped ellipse is symmetric with respect to line segments LS3 and LS4. When the arc-shaped ellipse is rotated around the intersection IP2 of line segments LS3 and LS4, the forces acting on each vertex of the arc-shaped ellipse (e.g., F3 and F4) act symmetrically with respect to line segments LS3 and LS4, respectively. In other words, it is symmetrical in the centrifugal direction. Therefore, when the cross-sectional shape of the stirring section 2121a is an arc-shaped ellipse, the axis of rotation is less likely to wobble.

[0093] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 15, in an arc-shaped ellipse, all line segments connecting adjacent vertices are of the same length. Therefore, when the arc-shaped ellipse is rotated around intersection IP2, each line segment connecting adjacent vertices experiences equal resistance. Consequently, when the cross-sectional shape of the stirring section 2121 is an arc-shaped ellipse, eccentricity is less likely to occur. Note that in Figure 15, for illustrative purposes, line segment LS4 is offset from the center of intersection IP2, but in reality, line segment LS4 is a line segment that passes through the center of intersection IP2.

[0094] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 13(a) and 13(c), the shape of the stirring section 2121a according to this embodiment is such that its thickness decreases towards the tip 2 of the stirring section 2121a. In other words, the shape of the stirring section 2121a according to this embodiment is formed so that its thickness decreases as it approaches the tip 2 of the stirring section 2121a.

[0095] Furthermore, the stirring section 2121a and the mounting section 2122 have a rotation axis AX2 that passes through the intersection IP2 where line segments LS3 and LS4 are perpendicular, and is aligned with the longitudinal direction of the stirring section 2121a and the mounting section 2122. In other words, since the stirring section 2121a and the mounting section 2122 have the same rotation axis, the rotation axis of the stirring bar 212 is the rotation axis AX2. The stirring bar driving mechanism 41 rotates the stirring bar 212 with the rotation axis AX2 of the stirring bar 212 according to this embodiment as the center of rotation.

[0096] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the stirring section 2121a and the mounting section 2122 are made of a single material because they are integrally formed. However, the stirring section 2121a and the mounting section 2122 may be made of different materials.

[0097] As described above, according to the automatic analyzer 1 of this embodiment, the automatic analyzer 1 is equipped with a stirring bar 212 for stirring the mixed liquid in the reaction vessel 2011. The cross-sectional shape of the stirring section 2121a of the stirring bar 212 is formed as an arc-shaped ellipse, with one pair of arc-shaped curves connecting the two pairs of vertices. Therefore, as with the first embodiment described above, when the stirring bar 212 is rotated to stir the mixed liquid in the reaction vessel 2011, the mixture can be stirred efficiently, thereby improving data performance. In other words, in this embodiment as well, the automatic analyzer 1 uses a stirring bar 212 whose stirring section 2121 cross-sectional shape is an arc-shaped ellipse to stir the mixed liquid in the reaction vessel 2011. Therefore, even when the stirring bar 212 is rotated at high speed, the axis of the stirring bar 212 is less likely to wobble, the mixed liquid can be stirred uniformly, and data performance can be improved.

[0098] Furthermore, in the stirring bar 212 according to this embodiment, similar to the first embodiment described above, the thickness decreases towards the tip TIP2 of the stirring section 2121a. Therefore, when the stirring section 2121a is detached from the mixed liquid or washing water, any remaining liquid such as the mixed liquid or washing water adhering to the stirring section 2121a can be transferred to the mixed liquid or washing water side by surface tension, making it less likely for any remaining liquid to remain on the stirring section 2121a. As a result, the stirring bar 212 can reduce the amount of remaining liquid adhering to the stirring section 2121a, and the possibility of bringing washing water into the reaction vessel 2011 where stirring will be performed next is reduced. In other words, the introduction of washing water into the reaction vessel 2011 can cause dilution of the mixed liquid in the reaction vessel 2011, which is a factor that can cause measurement errors in the amount of components in the mixed liquid, thus enabling the acquisition of stable data.

[0099] [Third Embodiment] In the automatic analyzer 1 according to the first embodiment described above, the shape of the stirring bar 212 is such that the cross-sectional shape of the stirring section 2121 is rhomboid, but it is not limited to this. In the third embodiment, the case in which the cross-sectional shape of the stirring section 2121 is elliptical will be described as the shape of the stirring bar 212. The parts that differ from the first embodiment described above will be described below. Note that the configuration of the automatic analyzer 1 and analysis mechanism 2 according to the third embodiment is the same as that of Figures 1 and 2, so the description will be omitted. Also, the configuration of the photometric unit 210 and other configurations according to the third embodiment are the same as those of Figures 3, 4 and 5 according to the first embodiment, so the description will be omitted. Furthermore, the contents of the washing control process and stirring control process are the same as those of Figures 9 to 12, so the description will be omitted.

[0100] The shape of the stirring bar 212 according to this embodiment will be described in detail with reference to Figures 16 and 17. Figure 16 is a diagram showing an example of the shape of the stirring bar 212 according to the third embodiment, and corresponds to Figure 6 in the first embodiment described above. Figure 16(a) is a front view of the stirring bar 212 according to this embodiment, Figure 16(b) is a bottom view of the stirring bar 212 according to this embodiment, Figure 16(c) is a side view of the stirring bar 212 according to this embodiment, and Figure 16(d) is a CC cross-sectional view showing an example of the cross-sectional shape of the stirring bar 212 according to this embodiment. Figure 17 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the cross-sectional shape of the stirring bar 212 according to the third embodiment. As shown in Figure 16, the stirring bar 212 according to this embodiment is configured to include a stirring section 2121b and a mounting section 2122. The configuration of the mounting section 2122 is the same as that of the first embodiment, so its description will be omitted.

[0101] The stirring section 2121b is the part that stirs the mixture in the reaction vessel 2011 into which the sample and reagents have been dispensed. In this embodiment, the cross-sectional shape of the stirring section 2121b perpendicular to the longitudinal direction is elliptical, as shown in Figure 16(d). In this elliptical shape, there are vertices a3, b3, c3, and d3, which are the vertices of the ellipse, as outwardly convex vertices. Of these four vertices, vertices a3 and c3 and vertices b3 and d3 are opposite each other, forming pairs of vertices. Furthermore, the line segments LS5 and LS6 are two line segments that connect these pairs of vertices, vertices a3 and c3 and vertices b3 and d3. As shown in Figure 16(d), line segments LS5 and LS6 are perpendicular and have different lengths. The shape formed by connecting adjacent vertices a3, b3, c3, and d3 with elliptical arcs is formed to be symmetric with respect to line segments LS1 and LS2, respectively.

[0102] As shown in Figure 17, this elliptical shape is symmetric with respect to line segments LS5 and LS6. When the elliptical shape is rotated around the intersection IP3 of line segments LS5 and LS6, the forces acting on each vertex of the elliptical shape (e.g., F5 and F6) act symmetrically with respect to line segments LS5 and LS6, respectively. In other words, it is symmetrical in the centrifugal direction. Therefore, if the cross-sectional shape of the stirring section 2121b is an arc-shaped ellipse, the axis of rotation will be less likely to wobble.

[0103] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 17, in an elliptical shape, all the elliptical arcs connecting adjacent vertices are of the same length. Therefore, when the elliptical shape is rotated around intersection IP3, each line segment connecting adjacent vertices experiences equal resistance. Consequently, when the cross-sectional shape of the stirring section 2121 is elliptical, eccentricity is less likely to occur. Note that in Figure 17, for illustrative purposes, line segment LS6 is offset from the center of intersection IP3, but in reality, line segment LS6 is a line segment that passes through the center of intersection IP3.

[0104] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 16(a) and 16(c), the shape of the stirring section 2121b according to this embodiment is such that its thickness decreases towards the tip 3 of the stirring section 2121b. In other words, the shape of the stirring section 2121b according to this embodiment is formed so that its thickness decreases as it approaches the tip 3 of the stirring section 2121b.

[0105] Furthermore, the stirring section 2121b and the mounting section 2122 have a rotation axis AX3 that passes through the intersection IP3 where line segments LS5 and LS6 are perpendicular, and is aligned with the longitudinal direction of the stirring section 2121b. In other words, since the stirring section 2121b and the mounting section 2122 have the same rotation axis, the rotation axis of the stirring bar 212 is the rotation axis AX3. The stirring bar driving mechanism 41 rotates the stirring bar 212 with the rotation axis AX3 of the stirring bar 212 in this embodiment as the center of rotation.

[0106] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the stirring section 2121b and the mounting section 2122 are made of a single material because the stirring section 2121b and the mounting section 2122 are formed integrally. However, the stirring section 2121b and the mounting section 2122 may be made of different materials.

[0107] As described above, according to the automatic analyzer 1 of this embodiment, the automatic analyzer 1 is equipped with a stirring bar 212 for stirring the mixed liquid in the reaction vessel 2011, and the cross-sectional shape of the stirring section 2121b of the stirring bar 212 is formed in an elliptical shape. Therefore, as with the first embodiment described above, when the stirring bar 212 is rotated to stir the mixed liquid in the reaction vessel 2011, it can be stirred efficiently, thereby improving data performance. In other words, in this embodiment as well, the automatic analyzer 1 uses a stirring bar 212 in which the cross-sectional shape of the stirring section 2121b is elliptical to stir the mixed liquid in the reaction vessel 2011. Therefore, even when the stirring bar 212 is rotated at high speed, the axis of the stirring bar 212 is less likely to wobble, the mixed liquid can be stirred uniformly, and data performance can be improved.

[0108] Furthermore, in the stirring bar 212 according to this embodiment, similar to the first embodiment described above, the thickness decreases towards the tip TIP3 of the stirring section 2121b. Therefore, when the stirring section 2121b is detached from the mixed liquid or washing water, any remaining liquid such as the mixed liquid or washing water adhering to the stirring section 2121b can be transferred to the mixed liquid or washing water side by surface tension, making it less likely for any remaining liquid to remain on the stirring section 2121b. As a result, the stirring bar 212 can reduce the amount of remaining liquid adhering to the stirring section 2121b, and the possibility of bringing washing water into the reaction vessel 2011 where stirring will be performed next is reduced. In other words, the introduction of washing water into the reaction vessel 2011 can cause dilution of the mixed liquid in the reaction vessel 2011, which is a factor that can cause measurement errors in the amount of components in the mixed liquid, thus enabling the acquisition of stable data.

[0109] [Modification 1 of the First to Third Embodiments] In the automatic analyzer 1 according to the first to third embodiments described above, it is also possible to modify the tip of the stirring section 2121 so that the corners are rounded. Hereinafter, the case in which this modification is applied to the first embodiment will be referred to as Modification 1, and the differences from the first embodiment described above will be explained.

[0110] Figure 18 shows an example of the shape of the stirring bar 212 according to Modification 1, and corresponds to Figure 6 of the First Embodiment described above. Figure 18(a) is a front view of the stirring bar 212 according to this modification, Figure 18(b) is a bottom view of the stirring bar 212 according to this modification, and Figure 18(c) is a side view of the stirring bar 212 according to this modification. As shown in Figure 18, the stirring bar 212 according to this modification is configured to include a stirring section 2121c and a mounting section 2122. The configuration of the mounting section 2122 is the same as that of the First Embodiment, so its description is omitted.

[0111] As shown in Figure 18(a), the corner of the tip TIP4 of the stirring section 2121d in this modified example is rounded. By rounding the corner of the tip TIP4 of the stirring section 2121d in this way, when the stirring section 2121c is separated from the mixed liquid or washing water, any remaining liquid such as the mixed liquid or washing water adhering to the stirring section 2121c can be transferred to the mixed liquid or washing water side by surface tension, resulting in a shape that makes it difficult for residual liquid to remain on the stirring section 2121c. Therefore, the stirring bar 212 can reduce the amount of residual liquid adhering to the stirring section 2121c, and the possibility of bringing washing water into the reaction vessel 2011 where stirring will be performed next is reduced. In other words, the introduction of washing water into the reaction vessel 2011 can cause dilution of the mixed liquid in the reaction vessel 2011, which is a factor that can cause measurement errors in the amount of components in the mixed liquid, thus enabling the acquisition of stable data.

[0112] Although this modified example was described as a modification of the first embodiment described above, it can also be applied to the second and third embodiments.

[0113] [Modification 2 of the First to Third Embodiments] In the automatic analyzer 1 according to the first to third embodiments described above, it is also possible to modify the tip of the stirring section 2121 so that the corners are chamfered. Hereinafter, the case in which this modification is applied to the first embodiment will be referred to as Modification 2, and the differences from the first embodiment described above will be explained.

[0114] Figure 19 shows an example of the shape of the stirring bar 212 according to the modified example 2, and corresponds to Figure 6 of the first embodiment described above. Figure 19(a) is a front view of the stirring bar 212 according to this modified example, Figure 19(b) is a bottom view of the stirring bar 212 according to this modified example, and Figure 19(c) is a side view of the stirring bar 212 according to this modified example. As shown in Figure 19, the stirring bar 212 according to this modified example is configured to include a stirring section 2121d and a mounting section 2122. The configuration of the mounting section 2122 is the same as that of the first embodiment, so its description is omitted.

[0115] As shown in Figure 19(a), the corner of the tip TIP 5 of the stirring section 2121d in this modified example is chamfered. In this way, when the stirring section 2121d is detached from the mixed liquid or washing water, any remaining liquid such as the mixed liquid or washing water adhering to the stirring section 2121d can be transferred to the mixed liquid or washing water side by surface tension, so that less liquid remains on the stirring section 2121d. As a result, the stirring bar 212 can reduce the amount of remaining liquid adhering to the stirring section 2121d, and the possibility of bringing washing water into the reaction vessel 2011 to be stirred next is reduced. In other words, the introduction of washing water into the reaction vessel 2011 can cause dilution of the mixed liquid in the reaction vessel 2011, which is a factor that can cause measurement errors in the amount of components in the mixed liquid, thus enabling the acquisition of stable data.

[0116] Although this modified example was described as a modified example 2 of the first embodiment described above, it can also be applied to the second and third embodiments.

[0117] [Modification 3 of the First to Third Embodiments] Furthermore, the stirring section 2121 according to the first to third embodiments may have a mirror-finished surface. This mirror finish is achieved by blasting or the like. Having a mirror-finished surface on the stirring section 2121 makes it less likely for residual liquid from the mixture to remain on the stirring section 2121. The stirring section 2121 may have a mirror-finished surface on all surfaces, or it may have a mirror-finished surface on only some surfaces. This partial surface is, for example, the surface of the part that is immersed in the mixture.

[0118] Although the explanation described the application to the first to third embodiments, it is also possible to apply the method to Modification 1 and Modification 2 of the first to third embodiments.

[0119] [Other modifications according to the first to third embodiments] The automated analyzer 1 of the first to third embodiments described above has been explained in relation to applications to automated analyzers that perform blood coagulation analysis tests, but the embodiments are not limited to this. In other words, the first to third embodiments can also be applied to automated analyzers that perform biochemical tests.

[0120] Furthermore, although the automated analyzer 1 of the first to third embodiments described above has been explained in the case where a single reagent system of test items is applied, the embodiments are not limited to this. For example, a two-reagent system of test items may also be applied.

[0121] In the above explanation, the term "processor" refers to circuits such as CPUs (Central Processing Units), GPUs (Graphics Processing Units), Application Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs), and Programmable Logic Devices (e.g., Simple Programmable Logic Devices (SPLDs), Complex Programmable Logic Devices (CPLDs), and Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs)). A processor functions by reading and executing a program stored in a memory circuit. Alternatively, instead of storing the program in a memory circuit, the processor may be configured to directly incorporate the program into its circuitry. In this case, the processor functions by reading and executing the program incorporated into the circuitry. Furthermore, a processor is not limited to being a single circuit; it may also be composed of multiple independent circuits combined to form a single processor and achieve its functions. Additionally, multiple components may be integrated into a single processor to achieve its functions.

[0122] Although several embodiments have been described above, these embodiments are presented only as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. The novel apparatus and methods described herein can be implemented in a variety of other forms. Furthermore, various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made to the embodiments of the apparatus and methods described herein, without departing from the spirit of the invention. The appended claims and equivalents are intended to include such embodiments and modifications that are included in the scope and spirit of the invention. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0123] 1...Automatic analyzer, 2...Analysis mechanism, 3...Analysis circuit, 4...Drive mechanism, 5...Input interface, 6...Output interface, 7...Communication interface, 8...Memory circuit, 9...Control circuit, 91...System control function, 92...Stirrer control function

Claims

1. A stirring unit for stirring a mixture of a sample and a reagent in a reaction vessel in which the sample and reagent have been dispensed, by rotating the stirring unit with respect to a rotating axis, wherein the stirring unit is formed to extend along the axial direction of the rotating axis, and the cross section perpendicular to the rotating axis has a shape having four vertices that are convex in the direction away from the rotating axis, and in the cross section, a first line segment connecting a pair of diagonally opposite vertices among the four vertices and a second line segment connecting another pair of diagonally opposite vertices among the four vertices are perpendicular, and the shape of the cross section is formed to be symmetric with respect to the first line segment and the second line segment, The shape of the cross-section is an arc-shaped ellipse, in which one pair of vertices is connected to the other by a pair of arc-shaped curves. The midpoint between the pair of vertices in each of the pair of arc-shaped curves is the stirring section that forms the other pair of vertices of the two pairs of vertices, A mounting portion for attaching the stirring unit, A stirring bar equipped with a stirring bar.

2. A stirring unit for stirring a mixture of a sample and a reagent in a reaction vessel in which the sample and reagent have been dispensed, by rotating the stirring unit with respect to a rotating shaft as the center of rotation, the stirring unit being formed to extend along the axial direction of the rotating shaft, the cross section perpendicular to the rotating shaft having a shape having four vertices that are convex in the direction away from the rotating shaft, the first line segment connecting a pair of diagonally opposite vertices among the four vertices and the second line segment connecting another pair of diagonally opposite vertices among the four vertices are perpendicular to each other, and the shape of the cross section being formed to be symmetric with respect to the first line segment and the second line segment, It comprises a mounting portion for attaching the stirring section, The shape of the stirring section is such that the thickness decreases towards the tip on the bottom side of the stirring section. The shape in which the thickness is reduced is a shape in which the thickness is reduced by cutting off one of the two pairs of tops of the cross-section, using each as a starting point, and cutting off the shape with two surfaces passing through each of the starting points and the bottom surface. The shape of the cross-section is a quadrilateral with the first line segment and the second line segment as diagonals and each of the four vertices as its vertices, or an ellipse with one of the first line segment and the second line segment as its major axis and the other of the first line segment and the other as its minor axis and each of the four vertices as its vertices, wherein the shape of the cross-section is a quadrilateral with the first line segment and the second line segment as its diagonals and each of the four vertices as its vertices.

3. The two surfaces are Without passing through the aforementioned rotating shaft, Cut out two line segments on the base surface that are parallel to the line segment connecting the other pair of vertices that are not the aforementioned starting point pair, in a shape that passes through each of the faces. The stirring bar according to claim 2.

4. The two line segments through which the two surfaces pass are equidistant from the axis of rotation, The stirring bar according to claim 3.

5. The two surfaces are Cutting is performed in a manner that is parallel to the line segment connecting the other pair of vertices that are not the starting point on the axis of rotation, and passing through a line segment on the bottom surface. The stirring bar according to claim 2.

6. The stirring bar according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the first line segment and the second line segment each have different lengths.

7. The stirring bar according to claim 2, wherein the shape of the cross-section is rhombic.

8. The stirring section is the stirring bar according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the stirring section has a mirror-finished surface.

9. The stirring bar according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the material of the stirring section and the mounting section is made of a single material.

10. An automatic analyzer comprising a stirring unit having a stirring bar according to any one of claims 1 to 9 and a stirring bar drive unit for driving the stirring bar.

11. The automatic analyzer according to claim 10, wherein the stirring bar drive unit rotates the stirring bar with the rotation axis as the center of rotation.

12. The automatic analyzer according to claim 11, wherein the axis of rotation passes through the intersection of two line segments connecting the vertices of the pair.

13. A cleaning tank capable of storing a cleaning solution for cleaning the aforementioned stirring bar, The system further comprises a stirrer control unit that controls the stirrer so as to immerse the stirrer in the cleaning liquid in the cleaning tank, The aforementioned stirring bar control unit is The stirring bar, positioned above the opening of the washing tank, is immersed in the washing liquid inside the washing tank to wash the stirring bar, The tip of the agitator is raised at a first speed to a position above the liquid surface of the cleaning liquid, and after reaching the position above the liquid surface of the cleaning liquid, the tip of the agitator is raised at a second speed faster than the first speed to a position above the opening of the cleaning tank. An automatic analyzer according to any one of claims 10 to 12, which controls the stirring bar.

14. The aforementioned stirring bar control unit is The stirring bar, positioned above the opening of the reaction vessel, is lowered to the mixture inside the reaction vessel, and the stirring bar drive unit is driven to stir the mixture with the stirring bar. The tip of the stirring bar is raised at a third speed to a position above the liquid surface of the mixture, and after reaching the position above the liquid surface, the tip of the stirring bar is raised at a fourth speed faster than the third speed to a position above the opening of the reaction vessel. The automatic analyzer according to claim 13, which controls the stirring bar.

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