Automated analysis system

Abstract

In order to predict and present the total time required for processing until measurement is complete, before pre-processing is executed by an automated analysis device, the present disclosure proposes an automated analysis system which executes: processing for calculating, on the basis of analysis time-related information relating to the time required from when a past specimen was conveyed to at least one analysis unit until analysis was complete, a predicted time until analysis is complete, taking as an object for which the predicted time is to be calculated a sample in at least one sample container that is held in at least one rack prior to loading into the at least one analysis unit; and processing for displaying the calculated predicted time on a display screen together with information relating to the specimen of which the predicted time is to be calculated (see fig. 4).

Description

Automated Analysis System

[0001] The present disclosure relates to automated analysis systems.

[0002] Automated analyzers are devices that perform qualitative and quantitative analysis of biological samples such as blood and urine. Some conventional automated analyzers have a function that displays on the screen a predicted time for completing measurement of a dispensed sample when the sample is introduced into the device and dispensed.

[0003] Furthermore, for example, Patent Document 1 discloses that in an automatic analyzer, after a rack holding samples is brought into the device and the acceptance process for each sample is performed, an estimated time for measurement completion is displayed.

[0004] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2002-156380

[0005] However, in conventional automated analyzers that have a function for displaying the estimated time to complete measurement after dispensing is complete, the operator cannot check the estimated time until the sample dispensing is complete. Therefore, the operator must wait until the automated analyzer completes sample dispensing in order to check the estimated time. Furthermore, if the operator wants to know the estimated time to complete measurement for a specific sample, the operator must wait until the specific sample has been dispensed.

[0006] Furthermore, with the automatic analyzer disclosed in Patent Document 1, the operator must wait until the rack is loaded into the analyzer and the sample acceptance process is completed in order to check the predicted time for measurement completion. In view of this situation, the present disclosure proposes a technology for predicting and displaying the total time required for processing until measurement completion before the automatic analyzer performs preprocessing.

[0007] In order to solve the above problems, the present disclosure proposes an automatic analysis system comprising: a rack loading / unloading section that loads and unloads at least one rack holding at least one sample container that contains a sample; at least one analysis section that analyzes the sample; a transport mechanism that transports the at least one rack to a position in the at least one analysis section where the sample is dispensed; a memory section that stores analysis time-related information regarding the time required from when a previous sample was transported to the at least one analysis section until the analysis is completed; and a control device that controls the operation of the rack loading / unloading section, the at least one analysis section, and the transport mechanism, wherein the control device performs the following processes: based on the analysis time-related information stored in the memory section, calculates a predicted time until the analysis is completed, using a sample in at least one sample container held in the at least one rack before being loaded into the at least one analysis section as the target of the predicted time calculation; and displays the calculated predicted time on a display screen together with information about the sample for which the predicted time is calculated.

[0008] Further features related to the present disclosure will become apparent from the description of this specification and the accompanying drawings. Also, aspects of the present disclosure are achieved and realized by the elements and combinations of various elements and the aspects of the following detailed description and the appended claims. The description of this specification is merely exemplary and does not limit the scope or application of the claims of the present disclosure in any way.

[0009] According to the technology of the present disclosure, it is possible to predict and present the total time required for processing until the measurement is completed before the automatic analyzer performs preprocessing.

[0010] 3A 。 FIG. 3B is a diagram showing an example of the schematic configuration of an automatic analysis system 100 according to the present embodiment, as seen from above. FIG. 3C is a flowchart for explaining the data accumulation process required to predict the total processing time while performing sample analysis. FIG. 3D is a flowchart for explaining an outline of the predicted time calculation process for predicting the total processing time from the start of device (system) preprocessing to the end of sample analysis (measurement). FIG. 3E is a flowchart for explaining the details of the processing content of S302 in FIG. 3A. FIG. 3F is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a total predicted processing time display screen 1_400 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 3G is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a total predicted processing time display screen 2_500 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 3H is a flowchart for explaining an outline of the process of creating a learning model for predicting result output time, and the process of calculating and displaying the predicted result output time using the learning model.

[0011] The present embodiment relates to an automatic analysis system that performs qualitative and quantitative analysis of biological samples such as blood and urine, and further relates to an automatic analysis system that has, for example, a specimen measurement function and a database that stores past data.

[0012] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the accompanying drawings, functionally identical elements may be designated by the same numerals. Note that the accompanying drawings show specific embodiments in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure, but these drawings are for understanding the present disclosure and are not to be used to interpret the present disclosure in any way as being limiting.

[0013] Although the present embodiment has been described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the present disclosure, it should be understood that other implementations and forms are possible, and that changes in configuration and structure and substitutions of various elements are possible without departing from the scope and spirit of the technical ideas of the present disclosure. Therefore, the following description should not be interpreted as being limited thereto.

[0014] (1) First Embodiment <Configuration Example of an Automated Analysis System> FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration example of an automated analysis system 100 according to this embodiment, as viewed from above. The automated analysis system 100 includes a rack loading / unloading unit 1 that loads and unloads racks holding samples to be measured, temporary rack storage units 3 and 5, dispensing lines 4, 6, and 8 that transport racks to be dispensed, analysis units 2a, 2b, and 2c that analyze samples, an operation unit PC (control device) 7, and a transport line 9. The automated analysis system 100 according to this embodiment has a function to detect at least the loading of a sample rack in the rack loading / unloading unit 1. The automated analysis system 100 may also have a function to identify the type of sample loaded in the loaded sample rack. For example, if the sample rack has an information storage medium such as a barcode or RFID, the automated analysis system 100 may be provided with a reading unit that reads the information storage medium, thereby identifying information such as the time the sample rack was loaded, the type of sample rack, and ultimately the type of sample loaded in the sample rack.

[0015] The analysis units 2a, 2b, and 2c are arranged along the conveying line 9. These analysis units 2a, 2b, and 2c can be configured as modules (analysis modules). The number of analysis modules can be set as desired. This embodiment (FIG. 1) shows, as an example, a case in which the number of modules is three. In FIG. 1, for example, the sample can be blood, and the analysis unit 2a can be an ISE module, the analysis unit 2b can be a colorimetric (biochemistry) module, and the analysis unit 2c can be an immunomodulatory module.

[0016] The transport line 9 transports sample racks loaded into the rack load-out unit 1 to the analysis units 2a, 2b, and / or 2c in accordance with an analysis request from an operator. The transport line 9 also transports sample racks holding samples for which analysis has been completed in the analysis units 2a, 2b, and 2c to the rack temporary storage unit 3 or 5. Furthermore, once a rack that was loaded into the rack load-out unit 1 but for which no analysis request has been made is once removed from the rack load-out unit 1, the transport line 9 transports (returns) it to the rack load-out unit 1 again.

[0017] The temporary rack storage units 3 and 5 are installed on the transport line 9 along which racks loaded with standard samples, quality control samples, and general samples are transported. The temporary rack storage units 3 and 5 are line mechanisms configured to hold one or more sample racks. Furthermore, the temporary rack storage units 3 and 5 can transport racks again to any of the analysis units 2a, 2b, or 2c, or to the rack transport unit 1, at any desired timing. In other words, the temporary rack storage units 3 and 5 may be any units capable of storing multiple samples and allowing random access. The structure of the temporary rack storage units 3 and 5 may be, for example, a disk-type temporary storage unit capable of storing multiple racks, or a temporary storage unit that stores multiple racks on each of multiple lines on which the racks are placed and transports any rack.

[0018] The operation unit PC (control device) 7 can be configured as an overall management computer that performs necessary control of the rack loading / unloading unit 1, the transport line 9, and the temporary rack storage units 3 and 5. The operation unit PC (control device) 7 also includes a storage device 71 (see FIG. 2). The storage device 71 stores attribute information related to the samples (such as the sample ID, patient name, requested analysis items, and a reception number assigned after the sample is placed in the rack). The operation unit PC 7 is also connected to an operation unit (a form of input device: for example, an operation GUI such as an operation panel) for inputting necessary information and a display unit (a form of output device) for displaying analysis results.

[0019] An operator (user) loads a rack into the rack loader / unloader 1. As the loaded rack is transported, the rack loader / unloader 1 reads rack information (e.g., a barcode, QR code (registered trademark), or character string information) using a barcode reader or camera, and recognizes the rack. After confirming the request information entered by the operator and the sample information on the rack, the operation unit PC 7 controls the transport line 9 to transport the rack to one of the analysis units 2a to 2c that will analyze the samples. Then, in the dispensing line 4, 6, or 8, the samples on the rack are dispensed into reaction vessels. Furthermore, reagents and the like required for the analysis are dispensed, and the analysis begins.

[0020] <Process for accumulating data necessary for predicting total processing time while analyzing samples> Figure 2 is a flowchart for explaining the process for accumulating data necessary for predicting total processing time while analyzing samples. Here, total processing time refers to the time from the start of preprocessing by the system (apparatus) to the end of sample measurement. Note that, below, the operating unit PC (controller) 7, which is the main operator of each step, will be referred to simply as the controller 7.

[0021] (i) S201 When an operator operates the operation unit (input device) of the control device 7 to input an analysis request (for example, by pressing the measurement start button), the control device 7 starts the sample measurement process. Note that the analysis request can be input, for example, by pressing the measurement start button after a tray containing multiple racks each holding multiple sample containers has been placed on the rack loader / unloader 1.

[0022] (ii) S202 The control device 7 instructs each of the analytical units 2a, 2b, and 2c to perform device preprocessing. Device (system) preprocessing refers to the processing required to perform sample measurement (processing to return the device to its initial state for measurement), such as moving the probe to its initial position and cleaning each unit in each of the analytical units 2a to 2c. In other words, because the state of the device (system) at the stage when an analysis request is received is unknown, device preprocessing is processing such as cleaning to return the device itself to a state where it can perform measurement again in order to perform accurate measurement. Furthermore, because which analytical module will perform the analysis is unknown or may change at the start of measurement, device preprocessing is performed in all of the analytical units 2a, 2b, and 2c.

[0023] (iii) S210: The control device 7 stores in the storage device 71 the time required to perform the instrument preprocessing from the input of the measurement start command (input of the analysis request). Here, the time required for the instrument preprocessing may be stored in the storage device 71 in association with, for example, information about the date and time, such as the day of the week and time period (in one-hour increments) on which the instrument preprocessing was performed, and environmental information, such as the weather and ambient temperature. The timing of execution of the process of S210 does not have to be immediately after the process of S202, but may be after the measurement is completed and the operator has confirmed the details of the instrument preprocessing. This is because there are trends in the analyses (measurements) performed depending on the day of the week and time period, and these may be somewhat patterned. For example, biochemical (colorimetric) analyses are often requested around 10:00 AM on Mondays. In this case, because it takes time for the biochemical measurement results to be output, the predicted time (described below) obtained by statistical processing (output as an average value) will be longer. Furthermore, for example, if only one immunoassay is performed on the same day of the week and in the same time period, the measurement results will be output quickly and the predicted time will be shorter. In this manner, in this embodiment, in order to take into consideration measurement circumstances such as the day of the week, time period, and date and time, data is also accumulated taking into consideration such measurement circumstances.

[0024] (iv) S203: Upon completion of the device pre-processing operation (S202), the rack loading / unloading unit 1 loads the loaded rack into the device in response to an instruction from the control device 7. The rack loading / unloading unit 1 also reads the information for each sample placed in the rack loaded by the operator and recognizes the sample. At this time, the rack loading / unloading unit 1 assigns a reception number to each sample under the control of the control device 7. Regarding the reception numbers, the operator can specify the starting number from which reception numbers are to be assigned to each test on a screen (GUI) used to instruct the start of measurement (analysis). Note that while a rack is configured to hold multiple sample containers, not all holding units necessarily contain sample containers (sample containers are held in the rack with gaps). In such cases, reception numbers may also be assigned to holding units in the rack that do not contain sample containers. That is, depending on the storage status of sample containers in the rack, reception numbers may be assigned to each sample, for example, 1, 2, 4, 8, 10, etc.

[0025] (v) S204 When the rack loading process (S203) is completed, the control device 7 instructs at least one of the analysis units 2a, 2b, or 2c, which are the subject of the analysis, to dispense a sample. In response to the dispensing instruction, at least one of the analysis units 2a, 2b, or 2c dispenses a sample from the target sample container. At this time, the control device 7 measures (acquires) the time from the start of the rack loading process (S203) to the completion of the sample dispensing process (S204).

[0026] (vi) S211 The control device 7 stores in the storage device 71 the time required from the start of rack loading processing of the samples to be analyzed to the completion of sample dispensing processing. Here, the time required from the start of rack loading processing to the completion of sample dispensing processing may be stored in the storage device 71 in association with, for example, information regarding the date and time, such as the day of the week and time period (in one-hour increments) on which the rack loading processing and sample dispensing processing were performed, and environmental information, such as the weather and ambient temperature. Note that, like S210, the timing of execution of the processing of S211 does not have to be immediately after the processing of S204, but may be after the operator has confirmed the details of the rack loading processing and sample dispensing processing after the measurement is completed.

[0027] (vii) S205 When the sample dispensing process (S204) is performed, the control device 7 calculates (predicts) the measurement end time. This measurement end time can be calculated, similar to the process performed in existing automatic analyzers, by obtaining the time required by the target analyzer 2a, 2b, or 2c (for example, the average value of the time accumulated in the DB) from the measurement time DB (the storage device 71 stores information on the time from the completion of dispensing to the end of measurement) and adding this time to the time when dispensing ends. As with existing automatic analyzers, the calculation (prediction) of the measurement end time is performed before the sample analysis is completed.

[0028] (viii) S206 The control device 7 displays the measurement end time calculated in S205 on the display screen of the display unit (not shown).

[0029] (ix) S207 When the sample analysis in the analysis unit 2a, 2b, or 2c is completed, the control device 7 outputs the analysis results (measurement results) (displays them on the display screen).

[0030] (x) S208 The control device 7 carries out the rack holding the samples for which the analysis has been completed from the analysis unit 2a, 2b, or 2c.

[0031] (xi) S209 When the unloading of the rack (S208) is completed, the control device 7 ends the measurement process, the process of accumulating the time required for the device pre-processing, and the process of accumulating the time required from loading to dispensing.

[0032] <Outline of predicted time calculation process> Fig. 3A is a flowchart for explaining an outline of the predicted time calculation process for predicting the total processing time from the start of device (system) preprocessing to the end of sample analysis (measurement). When the data necessary for predicted time calculation has been accumulated by the data accumulation process of Fig. 2, the predicted time calculation process can be executed.

[0033] (i) S301 An operation GUI including a measurement start screen is displayed on the display screen of the operation unit PC (control device) 7. When the operator presses a predicted time display button provided on the measurement start screen for calculating and displaying the total predicted processing time, the control device 7 starts the total predicted processing time calculation process. In addition to pressing the measurement result prediction screen display button, the operator may also input information such as the type of sample and analysis details into the corresponding input fields on the measurement start screen. In this embodiment, the operator selects the measurement timing from the display screen, but this is not limited to this and other configurations may be used.

[0034] (ii) S302 The control device 7 acquires the cumulative information (information on the time required for the device pre-processing operation and information on the time required from rack loading to output of the measurement result) stored in the storage device 71, and calculates the total predicted processing time from the acquired information. The details of S302 will be described later with reference to FIG. 3B.

[0035] (iii) S303: The control device 7 displays the total predicted processing time calculated in S302 on the measurement start screen of the operation GUI. Note that the predicted time does not have to be displayed on the measurement start screen. For example, the predicted time may be automatically displayed when a specific screen is displayed.

[0036] <Details of S302> FIG. 3B is a flowchart for explaining the details of the processing content of S302 in FIG. 3A.

[0037] (i) S3021 The control device 7 refers to the storage device 71 to acquire cumulative data on the time required for the device pre-processing operation. In this case, cumulative data on the time required for the same day of the week and time period as the day of the week and time period on which the device (system) pre-processing is performed may be acquired. For example, if the time when the predicted time display button is pressed is 10:05, cumulative data on the time required for device pre-processing from 10:00 onwards is acquired. By using the day of the week and time period as conditions for acquiring cumulative data in this way, it is possible to take into account trends in the device (system) on the day of the week and time period, and trends in the number of analysis items requested for samples.

[0038] (ii) S3022 The control device 7 calculates the average value of the cumulative data of the required time of the device pre-processing operation acquired in S3021. Here, the average value is calculated, but time data calculated by other statistical processing may also be used.

[0039] (iii) S3023 The control device 7 references the storage device 71 to acquire cumulative data on the time required from rack loading to output of measurement results (analysis results). In this case, cumulative data on the time required from rack loading to measurement execution for the day of the week and time period on which the measurement is performed, as well as the same day of the week, time period, and analysis content as the analysis content, may be acquired. For example, cumulative data on the time required from rack loading to measurement execution is acquired based on the time information obtained by adding the average time required for the device preprocessing operations to the time the predicted time display button was pressed (e.g., 10:05). By using the day of the week and time period as conditions for acquiring cumulative data in this way, it is possible to take into account trends in the device (system) over the day of the week and time period, as well as trends in the number of analysis items requested for each sample. Furthermore, in the case of an automated analyzer capable of measuring both biochemistry and immunology, by calculating the predicted time for each biochemistry (colorimetric analysis) and immunology, it is possible to make predictions taking into account days of the week and time periods when biochemistry measurements are most common.

[0040] (iv) S3024: The control device 7 calculates the average value of the cumulative data of the time required from rack loading to measurement result output (result output time) acquired in S3023. Here, the average value is calculated, but time data calculated by other statistical processing may also be used.

[0041] (v) S3025 The control device 7 adds the average value of the apparatus pre-processing operation time calculated in S3022 and the average value of the result output time calculated in S3024 to calculate a total predicted processing time.

[0042] <Configuration Example of Estimated Time Display Screen 1> FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a configuration example of a total processing estimated time display screen 1_400 according to this embodiment. The total processing estimated time display screen 1_400 is a screen displayed when the operator presses the estimated time display button (S301 in FIG. 3A ), and is an example screen configuration showing an estimated time calculated before the rack is loaded. Therefore, the total processing estimated time display screen 1_400 shown in FIG. 4 is not intended to be displayed all the time. The total processing estimated time display screen 1_400 can be used by the operator to check the approximate measurement completion time before starting the measurement. For example, when the operator wants to check when the measurement (analysis) of the Xth sample (e.g., the sample contained in the 150th sample container mounted on the rack) will end before starting the actual measurement, the control device 7, in response to the operator's request, displays the estimated measurement completion time (the total estimated time from the device preprocessing to the completion of the measurement) calculated at that time on the display screen of the total processing estimated time display screen 1_400.

[0043] The total processing predicted time display screen 1_400 has as its constituent items information 401 of the target data, status 402 indicating the status related to the measurement (status before the rack is loaded), information on the specimen number or specimen loading order 403 (specimen number or specimen loading order before the rack is loaded), predicted time 404 (predicted time before the rack is loaded), and status details 405.

[0044] The target data information 401 indicates the data information referenced to calculate the predicted time, including, for example, the day of the week and time period (the day of the week and time period when the display of the total processing predicted time display screen 1_400 was initiated). Furthermore, the actual measurement values ​​required to output past measurement results for the day of the week and time period of the target data may be displayed, including the shortest measurement time elapsed until the results were output and the longest measurement time elapsed until the results were output (shortest and longest measurement times: times based on past actual measurements including pre-instrumentation). This allows the operator to recognize the shortest and longest times even if an error occurs with the predicted value, thereby avoiding unnecessary worry. For example, if the sample was inserted between 10:00 and 11:00, but the measurement start time was between 11:00 and 11:00, the data referenced to calculate the total predicted time may be the data from the 11:00 time period.

[0045] The status column 402 displays one of three statuses described in the status details 405: measurement completed, measurement in progress, or not yet measured. If the device has not yet recognized the sample before measurement begins or before a rack is loaded, it is marked as not yet measured. Not yet measured "-" indicates a state in which the automated analysis system 100 has not yet recognized the sample (a state in which a sample has not yet been loaded). For example, it may also include a state in which a tray holding multiple racks is or is not placed on the rack loading / unloading section 1.

[0046] If the status 402 column indicates that measurement has not been performed, the sample number or sample loading order 403 column displays the sample loading order numbers, starting from 1. The sample loading order numbers correspond to the numbers in the order of reception at the rack loading / unloading unit 1. The maximum value of the sample loading order numbers can be changed arbitrarily by the operator using a definition file, etc. The sample number corresponds to the sample identification number obtained by reading information assigned to the sample container (e.g., barcode, QR code (registered trademark), character string, etc.). Note that in Figure 4, only the sample loading order number (reception number) is displayed. In other words, the information assigned to each sample container has not yet been read.

[0047] The predicted time column 404 displays the predicted time from device pretreatment to measurement result output (the result value obtained by executing FIGS. 3A and 3B ) for the sample input order displayed in the sample number or sample input order column 403. This predicted time is intended to display the predicted time if measurement is started when the predicted time for result output is displayed, and it is also possible to display the predicted time if measurement is started from the current time by updating the real-time screen. Furthermore, the predicted time column 404 can be displayed separately for each type of analysis unit 2a, 2b, or 2c (biochemistry (colorimetric), immunology, etc.) included in the automated analysis system 100.

[0048] 4, for example, it can be seen that for a sample with sample input order = 1, although it is in an unmeasured state, it is predicted that processing from instrument pretreatment to biochemical (colorimetric) analysis will be completed at 10:03, and processing up to immunological analysis will be completed at 10:00. Note that the total processing predicted time display screen 1_400 is not intended to be displayed all the time, but can be used to check the approximate predicted completion time (the time from instrument pretreatment to measurement completion) before starting measurement. Furthermore, if the operator wants to know the predicted completion time for a specific sample after actually starting measurement, the operator can check the predicted completion time by opening the total processing predicted time display screen 1_400.

[0049] 5 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a total predicted processing time display screen 2_500 according to this embodiment. The total predicted processing time display screen 2_500 is a screen that is displayed when the operator presses the predicted time display button (S301 in FIG. 3A), and is an example of a screen configuration that shows the predicted time calculated after the rack is carried in.

[0050] The total processing predicted time display screen 2_500, like the total processing predicted time display screen 1_400 (Figure 4), has as its constituent items information 501 of the target data, status 502 indicating the status related to the measurement (status after the rack is loaded), information on the specimen number or specimen loading order 503 (information on the specimen number or specimen loading order after the rack is loaded), predicted time 504 (predicted time after the rack is loaded), and status details 505.

[0051] After the rack is carried in, the column for status 502 displays three statuses in the detailed status 505: measurement completed, measurement in progress, and not yet measured. For samples for which measurement has been completed, a "measurement completed mark" is displayed. For samples in measurement, a "measurement in progress mark" is displayed. For samples that have not yet been measured, an "not yet measured mark" is displayed.

[0052] The column for specimen number or specimen loading order 503 displays the specimen number (specimen identification information) when a specimen is loaded into a rack and the rack loading / unloading unit 1 recognizes the specimen (reads the specimen information). In this case, the specimen loading order (reception number) displayed before loading the rack (before reading the specimen information) continues to be displayed after loading the rack, but as soon as the specimen number corresponding to the specimen loading order is identified, the display switches from specimen loading order to specimen number.

[0053] For samples whose status 502 indicates measurement complete, the predicted time 504 column displays the actual result output time (instrument preprocessing time + measurement time) rather than the total predicted processing time for each type of analytical unit 2a to 2c. If there is no analysis request corresponding to the type of analytical unit 2a to 2c, a "not yet measured" mark is displayed in the status details 505. When the instrument enters standby or rack reception status upon measurement completion, the control device 7 resets the analysis status to "not yet measured" for each sample (rack) starting with 1 in the sample (rack) input order (reception number), and updates the display on the total predicted processing time display screen 2_500. This is to prevent discrepancies in the sample input order (reception number) confirmed before and during measurement from occurring when displaying the predicted time.

[0054] (2) Second embodiment FIG. 6 is a flowchart for explaining an overview of the process of creating a learning model for predicting the result output time, and the process of calculating and displaying the predicted result output time using the learning model.

[0055] (i) Calculation and display process of predicted result output time using learning model (i-1) S601 and S602 When the control device 7 detects that the operator has pressed the prediction screen display button (an instruction to calculate the predicted time) (S601), it inputs information on the time period and day of the week at the time of calculation into the learning model for calculating the predicted result output time, and calculates the predicted result output time.

[0056] (i-2) S603 The control device 7 displays the predicted output time calculated in S602 on the display screen.

[0057] (ii) Learning Model Creation Process (ii-1) S604 The control device 7 acquires the accumulated data of the device pre-processing operation (time) from the storage device 71.

[0058] (ii-2) S605 The control device 7 acquires from the storage device 71 the accumulated data from the time the rack is carried in to the time the measurement result is output (time).

[0059] (ii-3) S606 The control device 7 creates a learning model for calculating the predicted result output time using the accumulated data of the device pre-processing operation and the accumulated data from rack loading to measurement result output. The learning model can be created based on the accumulated time-series data, taking into account the periodicity and trends of the data. The learning model may be created or updated each time a predicted time is calculated, each time new data is added, or periodically every 24 hours. The created learning model may be stored in a dedicated storage unit such as the storage device 71. Furthermore, the learning model may be created, updated, and used each time the calculation process for the predicted result output time is executed.

[0060] The accuracy of time series data prediction (calculation of predicted output time) can be improved by creating a learning model taking into account the day of the week and time period. Representative models for time series prediction include the MA model, AR model, ARMA model, ARIMA model, and SARIMA model. The accuracy of time series prediction can be improved by using these prediction models.

[0061] (3) Summary (i) In this embodiment, the automated analysis system 100 stores, for each sample, in the storage device 71 the time required for pre-measurement processing operations performed from the start of measurement until rack loading, and the time required from rack loading to measurement completion. Additionally, analysis time-related information, such as the day of the week, time period, and requested item, is also stored in the storage device 71 along with the time information. The control device 7 adds the average time required for past pre-measurement operations to the average time required from rack loading to measurement completion, thereby displaying the time required to complete measurement for samples yet to be loaded into the automated analysis system 100 on the screen. Furthermore, to accommodate situations where the number of samples to be measured before rack loading is unknown, the control device 7 displays the predicted time for each sample by displaying the predicted time in the order of sample loading. According to this embodiment, predicted times can be displayed for samples yet to be loaded into the rack. This eliminates the need for the operator to wait for the predicted time to be displayed. Furthermore, before rack loading, the predicted time display on the screen is displayed in the order of sample loading, allowing the operator to know the predicted time corresponding to the number of samples to be loaded. This allows operators to plan their work in advance, anticipating the time required for the measurement to be completed. Furthermore, if you want to know the measurement results for a specific sample, you can receive a response with the estimated time until the measurement is complete without having to wait for the sample to be dispensed. This reduces the time operators spend on their shifts and improves work efficiency.

[0062] (ii) The functions of the present embodiment can also be realized by software program code. In this case, a storage medium on which the program code is recorded is provided to a system or device, and the computer (or CPU or MPU) of the system or device reads the program code stored in the storage medium. In this case, the program code read from the storage medium itself realizes the functions of the above-described embodiment, and the program code itself and the storage medium on which it is stored constitute the present disclosure. Examples of storage media for providing such program code include flexible disks, CD-ROMs, DVD-ROMs, hard disks, optical disks, magneto-optical disks, CD-Rs, magnetic tape, non-volatile memory cards, and ROMs.

[0063] Furthermore, an operating system (OS) running on a computer may perform some or all of the actual processing based on instructions in the program code, and the functions of the above-described embodiments may be realized by this processing.Furthermore, after the program code is read from a storage medium and written to memory on the computer, a CPU of the computer may perform some or all of the actual processing based on instructions in the program code, and the functions of the above-described embodiments may be realized by this processing.

[0064] Furthermore, the program code of the software that realizes the functions of the embodiment may be distributed via a network and stored in a storage means such as a hard disk or memory of the system or device, or in a storage medium such as a CD-RW or CD-R, so that when used, the computer (or CPU or MPU) of the system or device reads and executes the program code stored in the storage means or storage medium.

[0065] The processes and techniques described herein are not inherently related to any specific device and can be implemented by a combination of components. Various types of general-purpose devices can also be added. A dedicated device may be constructed to perform the functions of the present embodiment. Various functions can also be formed by appropriately combining multiple components disclosed in the present embodiment. For example, some components may be omitted from all the components shown in the embodiments, or components from different embodiments may be appropriately combined.

[0066] Although specific embodiments are described in this disclosure, they are in all respects for the purpose of explanation (understanding the technology of the present disclosure) and not for the purpose of limitation. Those skilled in the art will recognize that there are many combinations of hardware, software, and firmware suitable for implementing the technology of the present disclosure. For example, the software described can be implemented in a wide variety of programming or scripting languages, such as assembler, C / C++, Perl, Shell, PHP, Java (registered trademark), etc.

[0067] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the control lines and information lines are those that are considered necessary for the explanation, and not all control lines and information lines in the product are necessarily shown. All components may be interconnected.

[0068] In addition, other implementations of the present disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art from consideration of the present embodiments. The specification and examples are exemplary only, with the scope and spirit of the technology of the present disclosure being indicated by the following claims.

[0069] 1 Rack loading / unloading section 2a, 2b, 2c Analysis section 3 Temporary rack storage section 4 Aliquoting line 5 Temporary rack storage section 6 Aliquoting line 7 Operation section PC (control device) 8 Aliquoting line 9 Transport line 71 Storage device 100 Automatic analysis system 400 Total estimated processing time display screen 1 401 Target data information 402 Status (before rack is loaded) 403 Specimen number or specimen loading order (before rack is loaded) 404 Estimated time (before rack is loaded) 405 Status details 500 Total estimated processing time display screen 2 501 Target data information 502 Status (after rack is loaded) 503 Specimen number or specimen loading order (after rack is loaded) 504 Estimated time (after rack is loaded) 505 Status details

Claims

1. a rack loading / unloading unit that loads / unloads at least one rack that holds at least one sample container that contains a sample; At least one analysis unit for analyzing the sample; a transport mechanism that transports the at least one rack to a position in the at least one analysis unit where the sample is dispensed; a storage unit that stores analysis time-related information relating to the time required from when a past sample was transported to the at least one analysis unit until the analysis was completed; a control device that controls operations of the rack loading / unloading unit, the at least one analysis unit, and the transport mechanism; The control device When a predicted time calculation instruction is received, (i-1) before the rack is loaded into the rack loading / unloading section, a predicted time until the analysis is completed is calculated based on the analysis time related information stored in the memory unit, with the sample in the at least one sample container held in the at least one rack before measurement in the at least one analysis section is started as the target of predicted time calculation, and (i-2) after the rack is loaded into the rack loading / unloading section, a process of calculating a result output time including an actual apparatus preprocessing time and a measurement time corresponding to an actual analysis request. (ii-1) before the rack is loaded into the rack loading / unloading section, displaying the calculated predicted time together with information on the specimen for which the predicted time is calculated on a display screen, and (ii-2) after the rack is loaded into the rack loading / unloading section, as the measurement in the at least one analysis section progresses, replacing the predicted time with the result output time and displaying it on the display screen; An automated analysis system that performs

2. In claim 1, The analysis time related information includes information on the day of the week and time period during which the analysis of the past sample was performed, which is associated with the analysis time of the past sample; The control device acquires from the memory unit the analysis time-related information corresponding to the day of the week and time period of the analysis request for the sample for which the predicted time is to be calculated, and statistically processes the acquired analysis time-related information to calculate the predicted time.

3. In claim 1, the storage unit stores, in addition to the analysis time-related information, apparatus pre-processing time information indicating the time of past apparatus pre-processing that was performed before the at least one rack was carried into the at least one analysis unit; The control device calculates a predicted time from before the sample for which the predicted time is calculated is transported to the at least one analysis unit to the completion of the analysis based on the analysis time-related information and the device preprocessing time information.

4. In claim 2, the storage unit stores, in addition to the analysis time-related information, apparatus pre-processing time information indicating the time of past apparatus pre-processing that was performed before the at least one rack was carried into the at least one analysis unit; The control device calculates a predicted time from before the sample for which the predicted time is calculated is transported to the at least one analysis unit to the completion of the analysis based on the analysis time-related information and the device preprocessing time information.

5. In claim 4, the apparatus pre-processing time information includes information on the day of the week and the time period during which the past apparatus pre-processing is performed, the information being associated with the time of the past apparatus pre-processing; The control device further acquires from the memory unit the device preprocessing time information corresponding to the day of the week and time period of the analysis request for the sample for which the predicted time is to be calculated, and calculates the predicted time by adding the time obtained by statistically processing the acquired device preprocessing time information and the time obtained by statistically processing the acquired analysis time-related information.

6. In claim 1, The control device displays the predicted times for the samples on the display screen in the order in which the sample containers are loaded into the rack loading / unloading section.

7. In claim 6, When the rack loading / unloading unit acquires sample identification information by reading the sample information attached to the sample container, the control device switches the display of the predicted time for the sample corresponding to the sample identification information from the display of the predicted time based on the loading order to the display of the predicted time based on the sample identification information.

8. In claim 7, When the actual measurement of the sample for which the display of the predicted time based on the sample identification information has been switched is completed and the state of the automatic analysis system becomes standby or waiting for rack reception, the control device resets the analysis state in the automatic analysis system to "unmeasured" in the order of input.

9. In claim 1, The control device Before the rack is loaded into the rack loading / unloading section, the predicted time for analysis in all of the analysis sections is calculated for all of the sample containers included in the rack, and the predicted time is displayed on the display screen; After the rack is loaded into the rack loading / unloading section, the result output time of the analysis in the analysis section that is not included in the actual analysis request for the sample container is not calculated, and the predicted time is replaced with the result output time and displayed on the display screen.