Automatic analysis device

Abstract

To reduce a burden on a user and a maintenance worker of an automatic analyzer.SOLUTION: An automatic analyzer includes a first pump, a second pump, a first probe, a second probe, a connection section, and a control section. The first pump drives the dispensing of the sample and / or reagent. The second pump drives the dispensing of the sample and / or reagent. The first probe sucks and discharges the sample and / or reagent. The second probe sucks and discharges the sample and / or reagent. The connection section connects the first pump and the second pump with the first probe and the second probe in a switchable manner. Based on information on the operation history of the first pump and the second pump, the control section controls the connection section to switch the flow path between the first pump and the second pump and the first probe and the second probe.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, an automatic analyzer for qualitative and quantitative analysis of specimen samples such as blood and urine has been known. The automatic analyzer has a plurality of probes for sucking and discharging a sample and / or a reagent, and a plurality of pumps that communicate with each probe to drive dispensing of the sample and / or the reagent. In such an automatic analyzer, for example, when performing an analysis of a two-reagent system, first, the first reagent is dispensed into a reaction vessel containing a specimen sample using a probe and a pump communicating with this probe. Next, the second reagent is dispensed into this reaction vessel using another probe and a pump communicating with this probe, and a predetermined measurement is performed after a lapse of a predetermined time.

[0003] In the automatic analyzer, maintenance of each part is performed as necessary. In the pump, seal parts formed of resin or rubber may wear due to the operation of the pump. Therefore, maintenance may be performed to replace parts inside the pump such as seal parts according to the usage status of the pump. During such maintenance, it is necessary to stop the operation of the automatic analyzer and for the maintenance worker to perform part replacement work and the like.

[0004] Depending on the type of sample and measurement parameters measured in an automated analyzer, the dispensing volumes of the first reagent and the second reagent may differ, or only one of the first or second reagents may be used. In this case, the cumulative operating time of multiple pumps will differ from one another. On the other hand, in conventional automated analyzers, pump maintenance is performed at fixed intervals calculated from the expected usage of the pumps. In this case, actual maintenance may not be performed when maintenance is required for each pump. As an alternative, it is conceivable to perform maintenance individually according to the actual usage of each pump, but in this case, the appropriate maintenance timing will differ for each pump, increasing the number of maintenance sessions and thus increasing the burden on users and maintenance personnel. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2017-146264 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

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

[0007] The automated analyzer according to the embodiment comprises a first pump, a second pump, a first probe, a second probe, a connection unit, and a control unit. The first pump drives the dispensing of the sample and / or reagent. The second pump drives the dispensing of the sample and / or reagent. The first probe performs aspiration and discharge of the sample and / or reagent. The second probe performs aspiration and discharge of the sample and / or reagent. The connection unit switches between the first pump and the second pump and the first probe and the second probe. The control unit controls the connection unit based on information regarding the operating history of the first pump and the second pump to switch the flow path between the first pump and the second pump and the first probe and the second probe. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of an automated analyzer. [Figure 2] Figure 2 shows an example of the functional configuration of the analysis control unit of an automated analyzer. [Figure 3] Figure 3 shows an example of the configuration of the analysis unit of an automated analyzer. [Figure 4] Figure 4 shows an example of the configuration of the first reagent dispensing mechanism and the second reagent dispensing mechanism of the automated analyzer according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of an automated analyzer. [Figure 6] Figure 6 shows an example of the operation of the connection section of an automated analyzer. [Figure 7] Figure 7 shows an example of a display on the display unit. [Figure 8] Figure 8 shows an example of the operation of the connection part. [Figure 9] Figure 9 shows an example of the operation of the connection part. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the automated analyzer after the flow path has been switched. [Figure 11] Figure 11 shows an example of a display on the display unit. [Figure 12] Figure 12 shows an example of the configuration of the first reagent dispensing mechanism and the second reagent dispensing mechanism of the automated analyzer according to the second embodiment. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of an automated analyzer. [Figure 14] Figure 14 shows the first reagent dispensing mechanism and the second reagent dispensing mechanism after the pumps have been replaced. [Figure 15] Figure 15 shows an example of a display on the display unit. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] Embodiments will be described below with reference to the drawings. Note that, for the sake of illustration and ease of understanding, the scale and aspect ratios of the drawings attached to this specification have been appropriately altered and exaggerated from those of the actual objects.

[0010] Figure 1 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of an automated analyzer 10, Figure 2 is a diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the analysis control unit 11 of the automated analyzer 10, and Figure 3 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the analysis unit 20 of the automated analyzer 10.

[0011] The automated analyzer 10 comprises an analysis unit 20, a control unit (analysis control unit) 11, an analysis data processing unit 13, an output unit 15, an operation unit 17, and a system control unit 19. The analysis unit 20 measures and analyzes the test sample and calibrator. The analysis control unit 11 controls the analysis unit 20. The analysis data processing unit 13 processes the analysis signals output from the analysis unit 20 to calculate analysis data. The output unit 15 outputs the analysis data from the analysis data processing unit 13. The operation unit 17 accepts input of analysis conditions and various command signals. The system control unit 19 controls all of the above-mentioned units in an integrated manner.

[0012] The analysis data processing unit 13 includes an arithmetic unit 131 that creates a calibration table, calculates analysis data, etc. from the calibration signals, analysis signals, etc. output from the analysis unit 20, and a storage unit 132 that stores the calibration table created by the arithmetic unit 131, the calculated analysis data, etc.

[0013] The arithmetic unit 131 creates a calibration table for each item from the calibration signals of each item output from the analysis unit 20, outputs it to the output unit 15, and stores it in the storage unit 132. Further, the arithmetic unit 131 reads out the calibration table corresponding to the item of the analysis signal from the storage unit 132 for the analysis signal of each item output from the analysis unit 20, and then calculates analysis data using this calibration table, outputs it to the output unit 15, and stores it in the storage unit 132.

[0014] The storage unit 132 includes a hard disk, an SSD (Solid State Drive), etc., and stores the calibration table, analysis data, etc. output from the arithmetic unit 131 for each test sample.

[0015] The output unit 15 includes a printing unit 151 that prints and outputs the calibration table, analysis data, etc. output from the analysis data processing unit 13, a display unit 152 that displays and outputs them, and an online unit 153 for outputting analysis data, etc. to an external information system, etc. The printing unit 151 includes a printer, etc., and prints and outputs the calibration table, analysis data, etc. output from the analysis data processing unit 13 on printer paper based on a preset format. The display unit 152 includes a monitor such as a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube), a liquid crystal display monitor, an organic EL display monitor, etc., and displays the calibration table, analysis data, etc. output from the analysis data processing unit 13, and displays a screen for setting analysis conditions according to an instruction from the system control unit 19.

[0016] The control unit 17 is equipped with input devices such as a keyboard, mouse, buttons, touch panel, and microphone, and is used for various operations such as setting analysis conditions, inputting subject information such as subject ID and subject name, selecting measurement items for each test sample, performing calibration operations for each item, and performing test sample analysis operations.

[0017] The system control unit 19 is equipped with a CPU and memory circuitry and stores information such as operator command signals supplied from the operation unit 17, analysis conditions, subject information, and measurement items for each test sample. Based on this information, it controls the operation of each unit constituting the analysis unit 20 in a predetermined sequence at a fixed cycle, or controls the creation of a calibration table, the calculation and output of analysis data, and other aspects of the entire system.

[0018] The analysis unit 20 performs analysis of the sample. In particular, the analysis unit 20 generates blank data by blank measurement, generates standard data by standard measurement by measuring a mixture of standard samples for each test item and reagents used for the analysis of each test item, and generates test data by test measurement by measuring a mixture of the test sample and reagents. The analysis unit 20 comprises a sample disk 21, a reagent storage unit 22, a reagent storage unit 23, a reaction disk 24, a first reagent dispensing mechanism 25, a second reagent dispensing mechanism 26, a sample dispensing mechanism 27, a first stirring mechanism 28, and a second stirring mechanism 29.

[0019] The sample disk 21 holds multiple sample containers 31, which contain samples 54 such as standard samples and test samples like serum. The sample containers 31 are held by the sample disk 21, for example, by being placed on a sample rack. One or more sample containers 31 are placed on a single sample rack.

[0020] The reagent storage unit 22 is equipped with a reagent rack 35 that rotatably holds multiple reagent containers 32, and this reagent rack 35 holds the first reagent 51 contained in the reagent containers 32 while keeping it cool. That is, the reagent containers 32 contain the first reagent 51, for example, a one-reagent system and a two-reagent system, which react with the components of the test items contained in each sample 54 such as a standard sample and a test sample. The reagent storage unit 23 is equipped with a reagent rack 36 that rotatably holds multiple reagent containers 33, and this reagent rack 36 holds the second reagent 52 contained in the reagent containers 33 while keeping it cool. That is, the reagent containers 33 contain the second reagent 52 which is paired with the first reagent 51. Note that the reagent rack 35 may hold both the reagent container 32 containing the first reagent 51 and the reagent container 33 containing the second reagent 52.

[0021] The reaction disk 24 detachably holds multiple fasteners around its circumference. These fasteners hold multiple reaction vessels in an arc shape at predetermined intervals. In other words, the reaction disk 24 mounts multiple fasteners as fasteners for multiple reaction vessels, thereby holding multiple reaction vessels in a movable manner.

[0022] The first reagent dispensing mechanism 25 comprises a first reagent dispensing probe (first probe) 251, a first pump 41 (see Figure 4), an arm, and a washing pool. The first reagent dispensing probe 251 draws the first reagent 51 from the reagent container 32 held in the reagent rack 35 and dispenses it into the reaction vessel from which the sample 54 has been discharged. The arm holds the first reagent dispensing probe 251 so that it can rotate and move up and down. The washing pool washes the first reagent dispensing probe 251 each time that one reagent has been dispensed from it. The first pump 41 will be described later.

[0023] The second reagent dispensing mechanism 26 comprises a second reagent dispensing probe (second probe) 261, a second pump 42 (see Figure 4), an arm, and a washing pool. The second reagent dispensing probe 261 draws the second reagent 52 from the reagent container 33 held in the reagent rack 36 and dispenses it into the reaction vessel from which the first reagent 51 was dispensed. The arm holds the second reagent dispensing probe 261 so that it can rotate and move up and down. The washing pool washes the second reagent dispensing probe 261 each time that one reagent has been dispensed from it. The second pump 42 will be described later.

[0024] The sample dispensing mechanism 27 comprises a sample dispensing probe 271, an arm, and a washing pool. The sample dispensing probe 271 draws in a sample container 31 held on a sample disc 21 and dispenses it into the reaction vessel. The arm holds the sample dispensing probe 271 so that it can rotate and move up and down. The washing pool washes the sample dispensing probe 271 each time that one sample 54 has been dispensed from the sample dispensing probe 271.

[0025] The first stirring mechanism 28 comprises a stirring bar, an arm, and a washing pool. The stirring bar stirs the mixture of the sample 54 and the first reagent 51 dispensed into the reaction vessel. The arm holds the stirring bar so that it can rotate and move up and down. The washing pool washes the stirring bar after each stirring of the mixture.

[0026] The second stirring mechanism 29 comprises a stirring bar, an arm, and a washing pool. The stirring bar stirs the mixture of the sample 54 dispensed into the reaction vessel and the first reagent 51 and the second reagent 52. The arm holds the stirring bar so that it can rotate and move up and down. The washing pool washes the stirring bar after each stirring of the mixture.

[0027] The automatic analyzer 10 also includes a reaction vessel cleaning mechanism 38 and a measuring unit 39. The measuring unit 39 measures the light that passes through the reaction vessel from the light irradiated onto the reaction vessel containing a solution such as water or a mixed solution. The reaction vessel cleaning mechanism 38 cleans and dries the inside of the reaction vessel after the measuring unit 39 has finished measuring the mixed solution. The reaction vessel cleaning mechanism 38 also discharges a blank liquid, such as pure water, into the cleaned reaction vessel for blank measurement.

[0028] Furthermore, the measurement unit 39 generates blank data by detecting light transmitted through a reaction vessel into which a blank solution has been dispensed. The measurement unit 39 also generates standard data by detecting light transmitted through a mixture in a reaction vessel into which a standard sample and reagents have been dispensed. Finally, it generates test data by detecting light transmitted through a test measurement in which a mixture in a reaction vessel into which the test sample 54 and reagents 51 and 52 have been dispensed.

[0029] The analysis control unit (control unit) 11 controls the various component units of the analysis unit 20. For example, in order to perform testing, the analysis control unit 11 sequentially assigns the test items entered for each test sample 54 to the reaction vessels that have been cleaned by the reaction vessel cleaning mechanism 38. Then, it causes the reaction vessel cleaning mechanism 38 to discharge a blank solution in the total amount obtained by summing the dispensing volume of the sample 54 and the dispensing volumes of reagents 51 and 52, which are set as the analysis parameters for that test item, to the reaction vessel to which the test item has been assigned. Subsequently, it causes the measurement unit 39 to perform a blank measurement of the reaction vessel from which the blank solution was discharged, and generates blank data.

[0030] The analysis control unit 11 includes a control circuit 110, a memory unit (memory circuit) 118, and a drive mechanism 120. The drive mechanism 120 drives the analysis unit 20 according to the control of the control circuit 110. The drive mechanism 120 is implemented by, for example, gears, a stepping motor, a belt conveyor, and a lead screw. The drive mechanism 120 individually rotates the sample disk 21, the reagent rack 35, and the reagent rack 36 to move the sample container 31, the reagent container 32, and the reagent container 33, respectively. The drive mechanism 120 also rotates the reaction disk 24 to move the reaction vessel. Furthermore, the drive mechanism 120 individually moves each of the aforementioned arms up and down and rotates to move the first probe (first reagent dispensing probe) 251, the second probe (second reagent dispensing probe) 261, and the sample dispensing probe 271, respectively.

[0031] The memory circuit 118 stores at least a program for realizing the functions of the control circuit 110. In addition to the program for realizing the functions of the control circuit 110, the memory circuit 118 may also store other information such as other programs, data input via the operation unit 17, and data generated by the analysis unit 20. The memory circuit 118 includes a recording medium that can be read by the processor, such as a magnetic or optical recording medium or a semiconductor memory. The memory circuit 118 does not necessarily have to be realized by a single storage device. For example, the memory circuit 118 may be realized by multiple storage devices.

[0032] The control circuit 110 is a processor that functions as the central hub of the automatic analyzer 10. The control circuit 110 realizes functions corresponding to the executed program by executing the program stored in the memory circuit 118. The control circuit 110 may also have a memory area that stores at least a portion of the data stored in the memory circuit 118. The control circuit 110 shown in Figure 2 has, for example, a cumulative operation amount counting function 111, a notification function 112, and a flow path switching function 113 by executing the program stored in the memory circuit 118. In this embodiment, the case in which the cumulative operation amount counting function 111, the notification function 112, and the flow path switching function 113 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 program.

[0033] In each embodiment of this specification, the cumulative operation amount counting function 111 of the control circuit 110 constitutes the cumulative operation amount counting unit, the notification function 112 constitutes the notification unit, and the flow path switching function 113 constitutes the flow path switching unit.

[0034] The cumulative operation amount counting function 111 is a function that counts the cumulative operation amount of the first pump 41 and the cumulative operation amount of the second pump 42 based on information regarding the operation history of the first pump 41 and the second pump 42. For example, in the cumulative operation amount counting function 111, the control circuit 110 accumulates the cumulative operation amount of the first pump 41 and the cumulative operation amount of the second pump 42 based on information regarding the operation amounts of the first pump 41 and the second pump 42. The information regarding the operation amounts of the first pump 41 and the second pump 42 is, for example, the total amount of reagent aspirated and / or discharged via probes 251 and 261, the number of times reagent is aspirated and / or discharged via probes 251 and 261, the amount of drive (rotation angle) of the motor that drives the syringes of pumps 41 and 42, and the drive time of the motor that drives the syringes of pumps 41 and 42.

[0035] The notification function 112 is a function that controls the output unit 15 to provide notifications to the user. For example, in the notification function 112, the control circuit 110 displays the cumulative operating amount of the first pump 41 and the cumulative operating amount of the second pump 42 on the display unit 152 to notify the user. In addition, in the notification function 112, the control circuit 110 may also notify the user if the larger of the cumulative operating amounts of the first pump 41 and the second pump 42 exceeds a predetermined amount. Furthermore, in the notification function 112, the control circuit 110 may provide a notification prompting the user to swap at least a portion of the first pump 41 and at least a portion of the second pump 42 based on information regarding the operating history of the first pump 41 and the second pump 42. In this specification, the user includes not only operators who perform analysis using the automated analyzer but also maintenance personnel.

[0036] The flow path switching function 113 controls the connection part 50 to switch the flow path between the first pump 41 and the second pump 42 and the first probe 251 and the second probe 261. For example, in the flow path switching function 113, the control circuit 110 controls the first valve 51, the second valve 52, the third valve 53, and the fourth valve 54.

[0037] Next, each embodiment of this disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0038] First Embodiment Figure 4 shows an example of the configuration of the first reagent dispensing mechanism 25 and the second reagent dispensing mechanism 26 of the automatic analyzer 10 according to this embodiment. Figure 5 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the automatic analyzer 10. Figures 6 to 8 show an example of the operation of the connection part 50 of the automatic analyzer 10. Figure 9 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the automatic analyzer 10 after flow path switching. Figure 10 shows an example of the display on the display unit 152.

[0039] The first reagent dispensing mechanism 25 includes a first pump 41 that drives the dispensing of the sample and / or reagent, and a first probe 251 that performs aspiration and discharge of the sample and / or reagent. In this embodiment, the first pump 41 is a pump that drives the dispensing of the reagent, and the first probe 251 is a probe that performs aspiration and discharge of the reagent.

[0040] The second reagent dispensing mechanism 26 includes a second pump 42 that drives the dispensing of the sample and / or reagent, and a second probe 261 that performs aspiration and discharge of the sample and / or reagent. In this embodiment, the second pump 42 is a pump that drives the dispensing of the reagent, and the second probe 261 is a probe that performs aspiration and discharge of the reagent.

[0041] The invention is not limited to this, and the first pump 41 may be a pump that drives the dispensing of the sample, and the first probe 251 may be a probe that performs aspiration and discharge of the sample. Furthermore, the second pump 42 may be a pump that drives the dispensing of the sample, and the second probe 261 may be a probe that performs aspiration and discharge of the sample.

[0042] The first pump 41 and the second pump 42 in this embodiment are, for example, syringe pumps, with the first pump 41 having a first motor 411 and the second pump 42 having a first motor 421. In pumps 41 and 42, the rotational driving force output from motors 411 and 421 is converted into linear driving force by a ball screw or the like, and this linear driving force causes the piston to move relative to the syringe. The movement of the piston relative to the syringe causes the suction of fluid into the syringe and the discharge of fluid from the syringe. Note that the first pump 41 and the second pump 42 are not limited to syringe pumps, and various pumps capable of suctioning and discharging fluid can be used.

[0043] In syringe pumps, a seal component is provided, for example, at the tip of the piston, to ensure a tight seal between the piston and the syringe. Because this seal component slides against the syringe, it can wear down with pump operation. Continued use of a worn seal component can create a gap between the seal component and the syringe, potentially causing fluid leakage. Therefore, regular maintenance, including replacement of the seal component, is necessary. Other pumps may also have seal components in their moving parts to ensure a tight seal, and similar maintenance is required. Furthermore, other components besides seal components may also require regular replacement.

[0044] Depending on the type of sample and measurement items measured in the automated analyzer 10, the dispensing volume of the first reagent and the dispensing volume of the second reagent may differ, or only one of the first or second reagent may be used. In this case, the cumulative operating volume of the first pump 41 and the cumulative operating volume of the second pump 42 will differ. If maintenance of the first pump 41 and the second pump 42 is performed at regular intervals, there may be cases where maintenance is not performed when maintenance is required for each pump 41 and 42. To address this, it is conceivable to perform maintenance individually according to the actual usage of each pump 41 and 42, that is, to perform maintenance on the first pump 41 according to its actual usage and to perform maintenance on the second pump 42 according to its actual usage. However, in this case, since the timing of maintenance for the first pump 41 and the timing of maintenance for the second pump 42 will differ, the total number of maintenance sessions will increase, increasing the burden on users and maintenance personnel.

[0045] To address these challenges, the automatic analyzer 10 of this embodiment is equipped with a connection section 50 that can reduce the difference between the cumulative operating amount of the first pump 41 and the cumulative operating amount of the second pump 42. The connection section 50 will be described below.

[0046] The automatic analyzer 10 of this embodiment has a connection section 50 that switches between a first pump 41 and a second pump 42 and a first probe 251 and a second probe 261. The connection section 50 has a first valve 51, a second valve 52, a third valve 53 and a fourth valve 54. The first valve 51 and the second valve 52 are located between the first pump 41 and the first probe 251. The second valve 52 is located between the first valve 51 and the first probe 251. The third valve 53 and the fourth valve 54 are located between the second pump 42 and the second probe 261. The fourth valve 54 is located between the third valve 53 and the second probe 261. Each of the valves 51 to 54 is a three-way valve and has the function of switching the flow path.

[0047] The connection section 50 has a first flow path 61, a second flow path 62, a third flow path 63, a fourth flow path 64, a fifth flow path 65, a sixth flow path 66, a seventh flow path 67, and an eighth flow path 68. The first flow path 61 is a flow path that connects the first pump 41 and the first valve 51. The second flow path 62 is a flow path that connects the first valve 51 and the second valve 52. The third flow path 63 is a flow path that connects the second valve 52 and the first probe 251. The fourth flow path 64 is a flow path that connects the second pump 42 and the third valve 53. The fifth flow path 65 is a flow path that connects the third valve 53 and the fourth valve 54. The sixth flow path 66 is a flow path that connects the fourth valve 54 and the second probe 261. The seventh flow path 67 is a flow path that connects the first valve 51 and the fourth valve 54. The eighth passage 68 is a passage that connects the second valve 52 and the third valve 53.

[0048] The automatic analyzer 10 of this embodiment further includes a cleaning solution tank 80 and a cleaning channel 82. The cleaning solution tank 80 is a tank that contains a cleaning solution for cleaning the inside of the first probe 251, the second probe 261 and the connection part 50. As the cleaning solution, water such as pure water can be used. The cleaning channel 82 is a channel that connects the cleaning solution tank 80 to the first pump 41 and the second pump 42. A valve may be provided in the cleaning channel 82 as needed.

[0049] Next, the operation of the automatic analyzer 10 having the connection part 50 will be described with reference to Figures 5 to 9. Figure 6 shows the connection part 50 before switching the flow path, and Figure 7 shows an example of the display on the display unit 152. Figure 8 shows the connection part 50 after switching the flow path. Figure 9 shows the connection part 50 when the inside of the first probe 251, the second probe 261 and the connection part 50 are cleaned using the cleaning solution contained in the cleaning solution tank 80. In Figures 6, 8 and 9, flow paths through which fluid can flow are shown with thick solid lines, and flow paths through which fluid cannot flow are shown with thin dashed lines.

[0050] In the example shown in Figure 6, the first pump 41 and the first probe 251 are connected via the first flow path 61, the first valve 51, the second flow path 62, the second valve 52, and the third flow path 63. The second pump 42 and the second probe 261 are connected via the fourth flow path 64, the third valve 53, the fifth flow path 65, the fourth valve 54, and the sixth flow path 66. The first valve 51 and the fourth valve 54 are not connected, so the fluid cannot flow through the seventh flow path 67. Also, the second valve 52 and the third valve 52 are not connected, so the fluid cannot flow through the eighth flow path 68.

[0051] In this state, the first reagent can be dispensed using the first probe 251 by the driving force of the first pump 41. Furthermore, the second reagent can be dispensed using the second probe 261 by the driving force of the second pump 42. Specifically, the first and second reagents are dispensed as follows.

[0052] In the first reagent dispensing mechanism 25, the tip of the first probe 251 is immersed in the first reagent contained in the reagent container 32, and the first pump 41 is driven to draw the first reagent into the first probe 251. Next, the first probe 251 is moved so that the tip of the first probe 251 is positioned inside the reaction vessel, and the first pump 41 is driven to discharge the first reagent contained in the first probe 251 into the reaction vessel.

[0053] In the second reagent dispensing mechanism 26, the tip of the second probe 261 is immersed in the second reagent contained in the reagent container 33, and the second pump 42 is driven to draw the second reagent into the second probe 261. Next, the second probe 261 is moved so that its tip is positioned inside the reaction vessel, and the second pump 42 is driven to discharge the second reagent contained in the second probe 261 into the reaction vessel.

[0054] Figure 5 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the automated analyzer 10 at this time. First, the control unit 11 measures the operating amount of each pump 41 and 42 (step S1). Specifically, the control unit 11 receives information regarding the operating amount of the first pump 41 from the first pump 41. The control unit 11 also receives information regarding the operating amount of the second pump 42 from the second pump 42. The information regarding the operating amounts of the first pump 41 and the second pump 42 includes, for example, the total amount of reagent aspirated and / or discharged via probes 251 and 261, the number of times reagent is aspirated and / or discharged via probes 251 and 261, the amount of drive (rotation angle) of motors 411 and 421 that drive the syringes of pumps 41 and 42, and the driving time of motors 411 and 421. In this embodiment, the measurement of the operating amount of each pump 41 and 42 is controlled and executed by the cumulative operating amount counting function 111 of the control circuit 110.

[0055] Next, the cumulative operating amounts of each pump 41 and 42 are counted (step S2). Specifically, the control unit 11 calculates the cumulative operating amounts of the first pump 41 and the second pump 42 based on information regarding the operating amounts of the first pump 41 and the second pump 42. In this embodiment, this counting of cumulative operating amounts is controlled and executed by the cumulative operating amount counting function 111 of the control circuit 110. At this time, the control unit 11 may control the display unit 152 to display the cumulative operating amounts of the first pump 41 and the second pump 42 on the display unit 152.

[0056] Next, the difference between the cumulative operating amount of the first pump 41 and the cumulative operating amount of the second pump 42 is calculated (step S3). In this embodiment, the calculation of this difference in cumulative operating amount is controlled and performed by the cumulative operating amount counting function 111 of the control circuit 110.

[0057] Next, it is determined whether the difference between the cumulative operating amount of the first pump 41 and the cumulative operating amount of the second pump 42 is greater than or equal to a predetermined amount (step S4). This determination is controlled and executed by the cumulative operating amount counting function 111 of the control circuit 110. If, in step S4, it is determined that the difference between the cumulative operating amount of the first pump 41 and the cumulative operating amount of the second pump 42 is less than a predetermined amount ("NO" in Figure 5), the process returns to "A" in Figure 5, and steps S1 to S4 are repeated.

[0058] In step S4, if it is determined that the difference between the cumulative operating amount of the first pump 41 and the cumulative operating amount of the second pump 42 is greater than or equal to a predetermined amount ("YES" in Figure 5), the user is notified (step S5). In this embodiment, this notification is controlled and executed by the notification function 112 of the control circuit 110. In step S5, the notification to the user can be performed by printing output from the printing unit 151, display on the display unit 152, audio output from the speaker, etc. An example of the display on the display unit 152 in step S5 is shown in Figure 7.

[0059] When the control unit receives an instruction from the user to switch the flow path, for example, when the "Switch Flow Path" button in Figure 7 is pressed, the control unit 11 switches the flow path (step S6). In this embodiment, this flow path switching is controlled and executed by the flow path switching function 113 of the control circuit 110. Figure 8 shows the connection section 50 after the flow path switching. The control unit 11 switches the flow path by controlling the first valve 51 to the fourth valve 54. In the connection section 50 after switching, as shown in Figure 8, the first pump 41 and the second probe 261 are in communication via the first flow path 61, the first valve 51, the seventh flow path 67, the fourth valve 54, and the sixth flow path 66. Also, the second pump 42 and the first probe 251 are in communication via the fourth flow path 64, the third valve 53, the eighth flow path 68, the second valve 52, and the third flow path 63. The first valve 51 and the second valve 52 are not in communication, so the fluid cannot flow through the second passage 62. Also, the third valve 53 and the fourth valve 54 are not in communication, so the fluid cannot flow through the fifth passage 65.

[0060] After switching the flow path, cleaning of the flow path may be performed (step S7). In this embodiment, this cleaning of the flow path is controlled and executed by the flow path switching function 113 of the control circuit 110. Figure 9 shows the connection part 50 when cleaning the flow path. The control unit 11 connects the cleaning fluid tank 80 to the cleaning flow path 82 between the first pump 41 and the second pump 42. The control unit 11 controls the first pump 41 and the second pump 42 to draw in the cleaning fluid from the cleaning fluid tank 80 and discharge it from the first probe 251 and the second probe 261. This prevents the first reagent and the second reagent from mixing (contamination) within the first probe 251 and the second probe 261. The cleaning fluid may be, for example, pure water.

[0061] Subsequently, dispensing of the first and second reagents can be resumed. After switching the flow path, the first reagent can be dispensed using the first probe 251, driven by the second pump 42. Also, the second reagent can be dispensed using the second probe 261, driven by the first pump 41. Specifically, the first and second reagents can be dispensed as follows.

[0062] With the tip of the first probe 251 immersed in the first reagent contained in the reagent container 32, the second pump 42 is driven to draw the first reagent into the first probe 251. Next, the first probe 251 is moved so that its tip is positioned inside the reaction vessel, and the second pump 42 is driven to discharge the first reagent contained in the first probe 251 into the reaction vessel. Also, with the tip of the second probe 261 immersed in the second reagent contained in the reagent container 33, the first pump 41 is driven to draw the second reagent into the second probe 261. Next, the second probe 261 is moved so that its tip is positioned inside the reaction vessel, and the first pump 41 is driven to discharge the second reagent contained in the second probe 261 into the reaction vessel.

[0063] The determination of whether it is time to perform maintenance on the first pump 41 and the second pump 42 is based on the cumulative operating time of the first pump 41 and the second pump 42. The control unit 11 determines whether the larger of the cumulative operating time of the first pump 41 and the cumulative operating time of the second pump 42 is greater than or equal to a predetermined amount (step S8). In this embodiment, this determination is controlled and executed by the cumulative operating time counting function 111 of the control circuit 110.

[0064] In step S8, if it is determined that the larger of the cumulative operating amounts of the first pump 41 and the second pump 42 is less than a predetermined amount ("NO" in Figure 5), the process returns to "A" in Figure 5. In step S8, if it is determined that the larger of the cumulative operating amounts of the first pump 41 and the second pump 42 is greater than or equal to a predetermined amount ("YES" in Figure 5), the user is notified (step S9). In this embodiment, this notification is controlled and executed by the notification function 112 of the control circuit 110. In step S9, the notification to the user can be performed by printing output from the printing unit 151, display on the display unit 152, audio output from the speaker, etc.

[0065] Next, perform maintenance on the pump (Step S10).

[0066] The measurement of the standard sample may be performed after switching the flow path. Figure 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the automated analyzer 10 after switching the flow path. If the flow path is cleaned in step S7 after switching the flow path, the measurement of the standard sample may be performed after step S7.

[0067] After step S6 or S7, the standard sample is measured (step S11). Then, it is determined whether the measurement result obtained from the measurement of the standard sample in step S11 is within a predetermined range (step S12). If the measurement result of the standard sample is within the predetermined range ("YES" in Figure 10), the process returns to A in Figure 5 (step S13), and the measurement of the sample is resumed. On the other hand, if the measurement result of the standard sample is not within the predetermined range ("NO" in Figure 10), the control unit 11 notifies the user (step S14). Then, the control unit 11 displays a confirmation screen on the display unit 152 (step S15) and accepts input from the user. In this embodiment, steps S14 and S15 are controlled and executed by the notification function 112 of the control circuit 110. Steps S14 and S15 may be performed simultaneously. That is, the display unit 152 may display that the measurement result of the standard sample is not within the predetermined range, and at the same time, a confirmation message to the user may be displayed.

[0068] Figure 11 shows an example of such a display screen. If the measurement result of the standard sample is not within the predetermined range, a blank measurement or a new calibration may be performed. On the confirmation screen in step S15, the user may be able to select whether to perform a blank measurement, a new calibration, or neither (by pressing the "Skip" button in Figure 11).

[0069] Various modifications can be made to the embodiments described above. Other embodiments will be described below with reference to the drawings as appropriate. In the following description and the drawings used therein, parts that can be configured in the same way as in the embodiments described above will be given the same reference numerals as those used for the corresponding parts in the embodiments described above, and redundant explanations will be omitted.

[0070] Second Embodiment Figure 12 shows an example of the configuration of the first reagent dispensing mechanism 25 and the second reagent dispensing mechanism 26 of the automated analyzer 10 according to the second embodiment.

[0071] As shown in Figure 12, the automatic analyzer 10 of this embodiment includes a first pump 41, a second pump 42, a first probe 251, a second probe 261, a ninth channel 69, and a tenth channel 70. In the state shown in Figure 12, the ninth channel 69 connects the first pump 41 and the first probe 251. The tenth channel 70 connects the second pump 42 and the second probe 261.

[0072] Next, the operation of the automated analyzer 10 of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 13 and 14. Figure 13 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the automated analyzer 10. Figure 14 shows the first reagent dispensing mechanism 25 and the second reagent dispensing mechanism 26 after the pumps have been replaced.

[0073] In Figure 13, steps S1 to S5 and S7 to S10 can be carried out in the same manner as in the first embodiment, so a detailed explanation is omitted.

[0074] Figure 15 shows an example of the display on the display unit 152 in step S5 of this embodiment. In step S5 of this embodiment, the notification unit 11 provides notification to the user prompting them to swap at least a portion of the first pump 41 and at least a portion of the second pump 42, based on information regarding the operation history of the first pump 41 and the second pump 42. In the example shown in Figure 15, the notification unit 11 controls the display unit 152 to provide notification to the user prompting them to swap the first pump 41 and the second pump 42.

[0075] Upon receiving notification in step S5, the user swaps at least a portion of the first pump 41 with at least a portion of the second pump 42, as shown in Figure 14 (step S20). At this time, the entire first pump 41 may be swapped with the entire second pump 42. Preferably, the parts of the first pump 41 and the second pump 42 to be swapped are configured to be easily removable and reattached. For example, the parts of the first pump 41 and the second pump 42 to be swapped may be configured to be removable by the user through the operation of a button.

[0076] Subsequently, step S7 or S8 is performed. In this embodiment as well, the control unit 11 may perform the measurement of the standard sample after step S20 or S7, as described with reference to Figure 10.

[0077] As another variation, in the first and second embodiments, the control unit 11 may store in the storage unit 118 the measurement results of the sample and the information of the pumps 41 and 42 used during the measurement of the sample, linked together.

[0078] Furthermore, in the first and second embodiments, the control unit 11 may store in the storage unit 118 the measurement results of the standard sample and the information of the pumps 41 and 42 used during the measurement of the standard sample, linked together.

[0079] Here, the information about the pumps 41 and 42 used refers to information such as which of the first pump 41 and the second pump 42 was used for dispensing the first reagent, and which of the first pump 41 and the second pump 42 was used for dispensing the second reagent.

[0080] The automated analyzer 10 in this specification is [1] A first pump 41 that drives the dispensing of samples and / or reagents, A second pump 42 that drives the dispensing of samples and / or reagents, A first probe 251 for aspirating and discharging samples and / or reagents, A second probe 261 for aspirating and discharging the sample and / or reagent, A connection section 50 that allows switching between the first pump 41 and the second pump 42 and the first probe 251 and the second probe 261, A control unit 11 having a flow path switching unit, the flow path switching unit controls the connection unit 50 to switch the flow path between the first pump 41 and the second pump 42 and the first probe 251 and the second probe 261 based on information regarding the operation history of the first pump 41 and the second pump 42. The automated analyzer 10 is equipped with the following:

[0081] The automated analyzer 10 in this specification is [2] A first pump 41 that drives the dispensing of the sample and / or reagent, A second pump 42 that drives the dispensing of samples and / or reagents, A first probe 251 for aspirating and discharging samples and / or reagents, A second probe 261 for aspirating and discharging the sample and / or reagent, A control unit 11 having a notification unit, the notification unit notifies the user to swap at least a portion of the first pump 41 and at least a portion of the second pump 42 based on information regarding the operating history of the first pump 41 and the second pump 42, and The automated analyzer 10 is equipped with the following:

[0082] The automated analyzer 10 in this specification is [3] The control unit 11 is an automatic analyzer 10 according to [1] or [2], which has a cumulative operation amount counting unit that counts the cumulative operation amount of the first pump 41 and the cumulative operation amount of the second pump 42.

[0083] With such an automated analyzer 10, based on information regarding the operating history of the first pump 41 and the second pump 42, for example, based on the cumulative operating amount of the first pump 41 and the second pump 42, the flow path between the first pump 41 and the second pump 42 and the first probe 251 and the second probe 261 can be switched, or at least a part of the first pump 41 and at least a part of the second pump 42 can be swapped. As a result, even if there is a large difference between the amount and number of times the sample and / or reagent is aspirated and discharged using the first probe 251 and the amount and number of times the sample and / or reagent is aspirated and discharged using the second probe 261, the difference between the cumulative amount of the sample and / or reagent aspirated and discharged by the first pump 41 and the cumulative amount of the sample and / or reagent aspirated and discharged by the second pump 42 can be reduced. Therefore, the difference between the maintenance timing of the first pump 41 and the maintenance timing of the second pump 42 can be reduced. This makes it possible to perform maintenance on the first pump 41 and the second pump 42 simultaneously, thereby suppressing an increase in the total number of maintenance cycles. Consequently, the burden on users and maintenance personnel regarding the maintenance of pumps 41 and 42 can be reduced.

[0084] The automated analyzer 10 in this specification is [4] The control unit 11 is the automatic analyzer 10 of [3] that notifies the user when the cumulative amount of the larger of the cumulative amount of the first pump 41 and the cumulative amount of the second pump 42 exceeds a predetermined amount.

[0085] With such an automated analyzer 10, by setting a predetermined amount for the cumulative operating time required for maintenance of pumps 41 and 42, when the larger of the cumulative operating time of the first pump 41 and the second pump 42 exceeds the predetermined amount, the user can be notified that maintenance of pumps 41 and 42 is required.

[0086] The automated analyzer 10 in this specification is [5] Equipped with a display unit 152, The control unit 11 controls the display unit 152 to display the cumulative operating amount of the first pump 41 and the cumulative operating amount of the second pump 42 on the display unit 152. This is an automatic analyzer 10 according to [3] or [4].

[0087] With such an automated analyzer 10, the user can check the cumulative operating amount of the first pump 41 and the cumulative operating amount of the second pump 42 on the display unit 152. Therefore, the user can predict the timing of switching the flow path at the connection unit 50 in the first embodiment, and the timing of replacing at least a part of the first pump 41 and at least a part of the second pump 42 in the second embodiment. The user can also predict the maintenance of the pumps 41 and 42.

[0088] The automated analyzer 10 in this specification is [6] The control unit 11 is one of the automated analyzers 10 [1] to [5] which performs measurement of a standard sample after switching the flow path between the first pump 41 and the second pump 42 and the first probe 251 and the second probe 261, or after swapping at least a part of the first pump 41 and at least a part of the second pump 42.

[0089] With such an automated analyzer 10, after switching the flow path between the first pump 41 and the second pump 42 and the first probe 251 and the second probe 261 in the first embodiment, and after exchanging at least a portion of the first pump 41 and at least a portion of the second pump 42 in the second embodiment, it is possible to confirm whether the amount of sample and / or reagent dispensed using the first probe 251 and the second probe 261 is within a specified range.

[0090] The automated analyzer 10 in this specification is [7] The control unit 11 is the automated analyzer 10 of [6] that notifies the user if the measurement result of the standard sample is outside a predetermined range.

[0091] With such an automated analyzer 10, if the amount of sample and / or reagent dispensed using the first probe 251 and the second probe 261 is not within the specified range, the user can be prompted to perform further measurements or calibration.

[0092] The automated analyzer 10 in this specification is [8] The control unit 11 is one of the automatic analyzers 10 [1] to [7] that links the measurement results of the sample with the information of the pumps 41 and 42 used when measuring the sample and stores it in the storage unit 118.

[0093] The automated analyzer 10 in this specification is [9] The control unit 11 is an automated analyzer 10 according to [6] or [7] that links the measurement results of the standard sample with the information of the pumps 41 and 42 used when measuring the standard sample and stores them in the storage unit 118.

[0094] With such an automated analyzer 10, it is possible to later confirm which pump was used when measuring a sample or a standard sample.

[0095] In the above description, 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)). When the processor is a CPU, for example, it implements each processing function by reading and executing a program stored in a memory circuit. On the other hand, when the processor is an ASIC, for example, instead of the program being stored in a memory circuit, the processing function is directly incorporated as a logic circuit within the processor's circuit. In this embodiment, each processor is not limited to being configured as a single circuit; multiple independent circuits may be combined to form a single processor and implement its processing function. Furthermore, the multiple components shown in Figure 1 may be integrated into a single processor to implement its processing function.

[0096] While several embodiments have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments can be carried out in a variety of other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, modifications, and combinations of embodiments can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments are included in the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as in the claims and their equivalents. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0097] 10 Automatic analyzer 11 Analysis and Control Section 13. Analysis Data Processing Unit 15 Output section 17 Control section 19 System Control Unit 20 Analysis Department 21 Sample Discs 24 Reaction Disks 25. First Reagent Dispensing Mechanism 26. Second Reagent Dispensing Mechanism 27 Sample dispensing mechanism 31 Sample container 32 Reagent containers 33 Reagent containers 41. First pump 42. Second pump 50 Connection part 110 Control circuit 111 Cumulative operation amount counting function 112 Notification function 113 Flow path switching function 118 Memory circuit 120 Drive mechanism 251 First probe 261 Second probe

Claims

1. A first pump that drives the dispensing of samples and / or reagents, A second pump that drives the dispensing of samples and / or reagents, A first probe for aspirating and discharging samples and / or reagents, A second probe for aspirating and discharging samples and / or reagents, A connection part that allows switching between the first pump and the second pump and the first probe and the second probe, A control unit having a flow path switching unit, wherein the flow path switching unit controls the connection unit to switch the flow path between the first pump and the second pump and the first probe and the second probe based on information regarding the operating history of the first pump and the second pump, and An automated analyzer equipped with the following features.

2. A first pump that drives the dispensing of samples and / or reagents, A second pump that drives the dispensing of samples and / or reagents, A first probe for aspirating and discharging samples and / or reagents, A second probe for aspirating and discharging samples and / or reagents, A control unit having a notification unit, wherein the notification unit provides notification to the user prompting them to swap at least a portion of the first pump and at least a portion of the second pump based on information regarding the operating history of the first pump and the second pump. An automated analyzer equipped with the following features.

3. The automatic analyzer according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the control unit has a cumulative operation amount counting unit that counts the cumulative operation amount of the first pump and the cumulative operation amount of the second pump.

4. The automatic analyzer according to claim 3, wherein the control unit notifies the user when the larger of the cumulative operating amount of the first pump and the cumulative operating amount of the second pump exceeds a predetermined amount.

5. Equipped with a display unit, The automatic analyzer according to claim 3, wherein the control unit controls the display unit to display the cumulative operating amount of the first pump and the cumulative operating amount of the second pump on the display unit.

6. The automatic analyzer according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the control unit performs measurement of a standard sample after switching the flow path between the first pump and the second pump and the first probe and the second probe, or after swapping at least a part of the first pump and at least a part of the second pump.

7. The automatic analyzer according to claim 6, wherein the control unit notifies the user when the measurement result of the standard sample is outside a predetermined range.

8. The automatic analyzer according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the control unit stores in a storage unit the measurement result of the sample and the information of the pump used when measuring the sample, linked together.

9. The automatic analyzer according to claim 6, wherein the control unit stores in a memory unit the measurement results of the standard sample and the information of the pump used during the measurement of the standard sample, linked together.

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