Method and system for automating patient-specific specimen collection

Abstract

The system for automating patient-specific specimen collection according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises: a management server including specimen information required for each patient; a tray supply device for supplying a labeled blood collection tube to a tray in response to the specimen information; and a tray transfer device for transferring the tray. The tray supply device comprises: a supply device communication unit for communicating with the management server; a blood collection tube supply unit for supplying a labeled blood collection tube in response to the specimen information; and a tray supply unit for sorting, onto a tray including identification information, the labeled blood collection tube according to each patient. The tray transfer device comprises: a transfer device communication unit for communicating with the management server; a tray holder for mounting a tray supplied from the tray supply device; a tray identification unit for acquiring identification information of the tray; and an output unit for displaying a tray matched to each patient.

Description

Method and system for automated patient-specific specimen collection

[0001] The present invention relates to a method and system for automating patient-specific specimen collection. Specifically, the present invention relates to a method and system for managing patient-specific specimen information through a central management server and automating patient-specific specimen collection using a tray supply device and a tray transport device.

[0002] Specimens such as blood, urine, stool, sputum, cells, and aspiration fluid are collected and tested for various purposes. Specimen selection varies from patient to patient, depending on the purpose of the test. Furthermore, multiple specimens from the same sample may be required depending on the purpose of the test. For example, multiple blood collection tubes may be required for each patient, depending on the purpose of the test.

[0003] Traditionally, hospital staff prepared the necessary specimen tools for each patient. This required significant manpower and time, leading to the problem of time-consuming labor. Recently, equipment has been introduced that automatically labels blood collection tubes by matching them to patient specimen information. However, many specimen tools exist beyond blood vessels, and sorting these tools by patient still requires significant time.

[0004] Additionally, specimens can be lost when personnel prepare specimen tools and bring them to patients. This process of identifying missing specimens and re-preparing the missing tools for testing consumes significant time.

[0005] Additionally, during the process of manually verifying each specimen, there are instances where specimens from other patients are accepted into the prepared specimen kit. Accepting specimens from other patients into the same kit can lead to misdiagnosis of the patient's condition and requires significant time to correct.

[0006] The purpose of the present invention is to easily classify specimen tools required for each patient, such as blood collection tubes and urine containers, thereby reducing the time required to prepare and classify specimen tools for each patient.

[0007] In addition, the present invention aims to prevent medical accidents by automatically confirming whether a specimen tool matches a patient.

[0008] In addition, the purpose of the present invention is to prevent omission of specimen collection by centrally managing the details of specimen information required for each patient.

[0009] According to one embodiment of the present invention, an automated patient specimen collection system includes a management server including specimen information required for each patient, a tray supply device for supplying labeled blood collection tubes to trays corresponding to the specimen information, and a tray transport device for transporting the trays. The tray supply device includes a supply device communication unit communicating with the management server, a blood collection tube supply unit for supplying labeled blood collection tubes corresponding to the specimen information, and a tray supply unit for classifying the labeled blood collection tubes for each patient into trays containing identification information. The tray transport device includes a transport device communication unit communicating with the management server, a tray holder for mounting trays supplied from the tray supply device, a tray identification unit for obtaining identification information of the trays, and an output unit for displaying trays matched to each patient.

[0010] Additionally, the tray supply unit includes a tray moving unit for moving the tray, and a tray identification unit for checking identification information displayed on the tray.

[0011] In addition, the tray supply device further includes a label supply unit that supplies a label corresponding to the specimen information to the tray.

[0012] Additionally, the tray supply device classifies at least one of the blood collection tubes and labels labeled for each patient into an identified tray, and transmits the tray information identified for each patient to the management server.

[0013] Additionally, the tray transport device further includes a label identification unit for identifying label information.

[0014] Additionally, the tray transport device identifies label information of a specimen tool included in an identified tray, and transmits patient-specific specimen completion information corresponding to the identified label information to the management server.

[0015] A method for automating patient-specific specimen collection according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a step of inputting specimen information required for each patient, a step of classifying blood collection tubes labeled in response to the specimen information into identified trays, a step of transporting the trays, and a step of identifying a tray matched to each patient.

[0016] Additionally, the step of classifying the labeled blood collection tube further includes classifying the label corresponding to the specimen information into the identified tray.

[0017] In addition, the automated method for collecting specimens for each patient further includes a step of identifying label information of a specimen tool included in an identified tray, and a step of entering specimen completion information corresponding to the identified label information.

[0018] In addition, the step of identifying the label information further includes a step of confirming whether the identified label information matches the entered patient information, and a step of inputting information on completion of specimen collection corresponding to the identified label information.

[0019] A tray supply device according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a supply device communication unit that communicates with a management server containing specimen information required for each patient, a blood collection tube supply unit that labels and supplies blood collection tubes inserted in response to the specimen information required for each patient, and a tray supply unit that classifies blood collection tubes supplied from the blood collection tube supply unit into trays for each patient. The tray supply unit includes a tray moving unit that moves trays, and a tray identification unit that confirms identification information displayed on the tray.

[0020] Additionally, the tray supply device transmits tray identification information matched to each patient to the management server or tray transport device through the supply device communication unit.

[0021] In addition, the tray supply device further includes a label supply unit that supplies a label corresponding to the specimen information to the tray.

[0022] In addition, the blood collection tube supply unit includes a blood collection tube insertion hole into which a blood collection tube is inserted, an insertion hole separator that divides the blood collection tube insertion hole in one direction, a roller part provided below the blood collection tube insertion hole, and a blood collection tube discharge hole provided below the roller part for discharging the blood collection tube. The roller part includes a roller part body provided along the one direction, a roller part main groove provided in the roller part body along the one direction into which a blood collection tube is introduced, and a roller sub groove that intersects diagonally along a side surface of the roller part body.

[0023] In addition, the tray supply unit includes a first tray loading unit in which trays filled with blood collection tubes for each patient are stacked, and a second tray loading unit in which empty trays are stacked and which supplies the empty trays to the tray moving unit.

[0024] In addition, the tray moving unit includes a tray guide that surrounds the side of the tray, a guide driving unit that moves the tray guide along the first tray mounting unit, the second tray mounting unit, and the tray identification unit, and an up-and-down driving unit that is provided at the bottom of the first tray mounting unit and moves a tray filled with a blood collection tube for each patient to the first tray mounting unit through an up-and-down movement configuration.

[0025] In addition, the tray has a single-layer structure with an upper and lower portion separated, and the upper circumference is wider than the lower circumference.

[0026] In addition, the first tray mounting portion is connected to a rotation axis and is rotationally driven, and includes a first support portion that supports the tray by being connected to the single-layer structure of the tray, a first guide groove that limits a rotation angle of the first support portion, and a first sensor portion that detects rotation of the first support portion.

[0027] In addition, the second tray mounting portion is connected to a rotation shaft and rotates, and includes a second support portion that is hung on the single-layer structure of the tray and supports the tray, a driving motor that rotates the second support portion, and a second sensor portion that detects rotation of the second support portion.

[0028] In addition, the second tray mounting portion is provided with two pairs of the second support portion, the driving motor, and the second sensor portion in an upper and lower direction.

[0029] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a tray transport device transports a tray on which a patient-specific specimen tool is mounted, and includes a driving unit including a driving unit for movement, a tray holder including a space partitioned to mount the tray, a tray identification unit provided in the partitioned space to identify identification information of the tray, a transport device communication unit communicating with a management server including specimen information required for each patient and the degree of identification of a tray matched to each patient, an input unit for receiving patient information, and a display unit for displaying a tray matching the input patient information.

[0030] In addition, the output unit is an LED that is provided in each compartment space of the tray holder and indicates the compartment in which the tray matching the input patient information is mounted.

[0031] Additionally, the tray transport device further includes a label identification unit that scans label information provided on the specimen tool.

[0032] Additionally, the tray transport device transmits the label information identified by the label identification unit to the management server, and outputs information for confirming whether the specimen tool corresponding to the label information is a specimen tool matching the input patient information.

[0033] The above tray transport device transmits the label information identified by the label identification unit to the management server, and the management server records information on specimen collection performed in response to the label information required for specimen collection of the input patient.

[0034] Additionally, the output section includes a display section that displays the required sample contents for each patient input.

[0035] Additionally, the display unit outputs the number and type of specimens to be collected in response to the input patient.

[0036] Additionally, the display unit outputs the number and types of specimen collections that must be performed in response to the input patient, and the specimen collections performed. At this time, the specimen collections performed are specimen collections corresponding to the identified label information.

[0037] The automated method and system for collecting specimens for each patient according to the present invention can easily classify specimen tools required for each patient, thereby reducing the time required to prepare and classify specimen tools for each patient.

[0038] In addition, the automated method and system for collecting patient-specific specimens according to the present invention can prevent medical accidents by automatically confirming whether the specimen tool matches the patient.

[0039] In addition, the automated method and system for collecting specimens for each patient according to the present invention can prevent omission of specimen collection by centrally managing the details of specimen information required for each patient.

[0040] Figure 1 is a block diagram of an automated patient sample collection system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] Figure 2 is a flowchart illustrating an automated method for collecting patient-specific samples according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] Figure 3 is a perspective view of a tray supply device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] Figure 4 is an exploded view of a tray supply device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] FIG. 5 is a drawing for explaining a blood collection tube supply unit included in a tray supply device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] Figure 6 is a partially enlarged view of a blood collection tube supply unit according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] FIG. 7 is a drawing for explaining a label paper supply unit included in a tray supply device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] FIG. 8 is a drawing for explaining a tray supply unit according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] Figure 9 is a partially enlarged view illustrating a tray moving part of a tray supply part according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] FIG. 10 is a partially enlarged view illustrating a first tray mounting portion of a tray supply portion according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] FIG. 11 is a partially enlarged view illustrating a second tray mounting portion of a tray supply portion according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0051] Figure 12 is a perspective view of a tray transport device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0052] Below, with reference to the attached drawings, an embodiment of the present invention is described in detail so that a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains can easily practice it.

[0053] However, the present invention can be implemented in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. In order to clearly explain the present invention in the drawings, parts irrelevant to the description have been omitted, and similar parts have been designated with similar reference numerals throughout the specification.

[0054] In this specification, duplicate descriptions of identical components are omitted.

[0055] Additionally, when a component is referred to herein as being "connected" or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that while it may be directly connected or connected to that other component, there may be other components present in between. Conversely, when a component is referred to herein as being "directly connected" or "directly connected" to another component, it should be understood that there are no other components present in between.

[0056] Additionally, the terms used herein are only used to describe specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the present invention.

[0057] Also, in this specification, singular expressions may include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0058] In addition, in this specification, it should be understood that terms such as “include” or “have” are intended to specify only the presence of a feature, number, step, operation, component, part, or combination thereof described in the specification, and do not exclude in advance the possibility of the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0059] Also, in this specification, the term 'and / or' includes a combination of multiple listed items or any item among multiple listed items. In this specification, 'A or B' can include 'A', 'B', or 'both A and B'.

[0060] Figure 1 is a block diagram of an automated patient sample collection system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0061] The automated patient-specific specimen collection system (100) according to the present invention automatically prepares and classifies specimen tools in response to specimen information required for each patient at a hospital. Furthermore, the automated patient-specific specimen collection system (100) according to the present invention automatically records the progress of specimen collection. To this end, the automated patient-specific specimen collection system (100) according to the present invention includes a management server (110), a tray supply device (120), and a tray transport device (130).

[0062] The management server (110) may be a hospital server containing specimen information required for each patient. The management server (110) may include a database for storing data and a communication unit for communicating with a tray supply device (120) and a tray transport device (130).

[0063] The database of the management server (110) includes patient information and specimen information required for each patient. Furthermore, the database may include specimen collection information for each patient. Furthermore, the database may include identification information for trays matched to each patient in the tray supply device (120).

[0064] Patient information and specimen information required for each patient are entered by the hospital administrator.

[0065] Specimen collection information for each patient can be input from the tray transport device (130) through a communication unit (not shown).

[0066] The identification information of the tray matched to each patient can be input from the tray supply device (120) via a communication unit (not shown). Here, the tray matched to each patient includes the specimen tools required for the corresponding patient.

[0067] In some cases, the management server (110) may be a component included in the tray supply device (120).

[0068] The tray supply unit (120) is a device that distributes and supplies specimen tools required for each patient to identified trays. The tray supply unit includes a blood collection tube supply unit, a tray supply unit, a communication unit, and a control unit. Additionally, the tray supply unit may include a label supply unit.

[0069] The blood collection tube supply unit labels the empty blood collection tubes and supplies them to an identified tray. The information labeled on the empty blood collection tubes may correspond to the specimen information required for each patient. The specimen information required for each patient can be received from the management server (110) via the communication unit.

[0070] The tray supply unit sorts the necessary specimen tools and labels for each patient into trays containing identification information. Specifically, the tray supply unit sorts labels that can be attached to blood collection tubes and specimen tools labeled for each patient into identified trays. The tray identification information matched to each patient is transmitted to the management server (110). In some cases, it may be transmitted to the tray transport device (130).

[0071] The tray supply unit may include a tray moving unit for moving trays, and a tray identification unit for checking identification information displayed on the tray.

[0072] The label supply unit supplies labels that can be attached to specimen instruments other than blood collection tubes. Labels can be attached to various specimen instruments, such as paper cups, urine containers, and stool containers, and can include information about the patient's specimen subject. In some cases, labels can be used to record not only the purpose of the specimen but also information related to medications that the patient must take. Here, medication-related information may include at least one of the following: the type of medication, the amount of medication, the method of administration, and information necessary to receive the medication.

[0073] The tray contains unique identification information, and the tray identification unit verifies this. The tray supply unit (120) identifies the tray and sorts all the blood collection tubes and labels required for a specific patient into the tray. For example, the specific patient may require three blood collection tubes and one urine container for specimen collection. In this case, the tray supply unit (120) sorts the identified tray by placing three blood collection tubes for the specific patient and a label that can be attached to the urine container.

[0074] The communication unit (hereinafter, “supply unit communication unit”) provided in the tray supply device (120) communicates with the management server (110). In some cases, the supply unit communication unit communicates with the tray transport device (130). The tray supply device (120) can receive specimen information required for each patient from the management server (110) through the supply unit communication unit, and in response, transmit identification information of the tray classified for each patient to the management server (110).

[0075] The control unit of the tray supply device (120) controls the blood collection tube supply unit, the tray supply unit, the label supply unit, and the supply device communication unit.

[0076] The tray transport device (130) is a device that transports trays containing the specimen tools and labels required for each patient from the tray supply device (120). The tray transport device (130) includes a driving unit, a tray holder, a tray identification unit, a communication unit, an output unit, and a control unit. Additionally, the tray transport device (130) may further include at least one of an input unit and a label identification unit.

[0077] The driving unit of the tray transport device (130) can be driven manually or electrically. The driving unit can be provided on the body of the tray transport device (130). The body of the tray transport device (130) includes a storage space, and various specimen tools such as empty blood collection tubes, paper cups, urine containers, and stool containers can be provided.

[0078] The tray holder can be equipped with trays supplied from the tray supply device (120). The tray holder can be equipped with trays in each space, including the partitioned space.

[0079] A tray identification unit (232) is provided on the tray holder to check the identification information of the tray. The tray identification unit (232) may be provided in each compartment space of the tray holder.

[0080] The communication unit (hereinafter, “transport unit communication unit”) of the tray transport device (130) can receive patient-specific required specimen information and patient-specific matching tray identification information from the management server (110). In some cases, the patient-specific matching tray identification information can be received through the tray supply device (120).

[0081] The output unit of the tray transport device (130) can display a corresponding tray corresponding to patient information. The output unit can display a compartment space in the tray holder equipped with a tray matching the patient information.

[0082] The input section of the tray transport device (130) can be used to input patient information.

[0083] The label identification unit of the tray transport device (130) can be used to verify the label information of the blood collection tube and label paper provided on the tray. The verified label information can be transmitted to the management server (110) via the transport device communication unit and recorded.

[0084] The control unit of the tray transport device (130) can control the tray identification unit, output unit, and communication unit. If the driving unit is automatic, the driving unit is controlled, and the provided input unit and Rabec identification unit can be controlled.

[0085] FIG. 2 is a flowchart illustrating an automated method for patient-specific sample collection according to one embodiment of the present invention. Specifically, FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a method for automating patient-specific sample collection using the patient-specific sample collection automation system of FIG. 1.

[0086] The automated patient-specific specimen collection method according to the present invention first inputs the required specimen information for each patient. Labeled blood collection tubes corresponding to the input specimen information are sorted into identified trays. The trays containing the labeled tubes are then transported to the patient's location. The matching trays for each patient are then identified.

[0087] The step of entering the specimen information required for each patient is the step where the hospital staff inputs the patient information and the specimen information required for each patient into the management server (110). The patient information and specimen information input from the management server (110) can be transmitted to the tray supply device (120). (S210)

[0088] The step of sorting labeled blood collection tubes into identified trays is performed by the tray supply device (120). This step may involve preparing labeled blood collection tubes and labels corresponding to patient-specific specimen information and sorting them into trays matched to each patient. Here, the tray identification information matched to each patient may be transmitted to the management server (110). (S210)

[0089] The step of classifying labeled blood collection tubes into identified trays may further include a step of classifying labels corresponding to specimen information received from the management server (110) into identified trays. That is, this may be a step of classifying labels that can be used for labeled blood collection tubes and other specimen tools into trays identified for each patient.

[0090] The management server (110) can record tray identification information matched to each patient and transmit it to the tray transport device (130). Specifically, the management server (110) can transmit patient information, specimen information, and tray identification information to the tray transport device (130). In some cases, the tray identification information matched to each patient can be directly transmitted from the tray supply device (120) to the tray transport device (130).

[0091] The step of transporting the tray is a step of transporting the tray from the tray supply device (120) to an individual patient using a tray transport device (130) either manually or automatically.

[0092] The step of identifying a tray matched to a patient is a step of identifying a tray containing a specimen tool and label in response to the patient information entered into the tray transport device (130). When a hospital staff member enters patient information into the tray transport device (130), the tray transport device (130) uses the information received through the management server (110) to identify and display a tray matched to the entered patient information.

[0093] After identifying the tray, the step of identifying the label information of the specimen tool included in the tray may further include the step of identifying the label information. The step of identifying the label information includes the step of confirming the label information of the blood collection tube. In addition, the step of identifying the label information includes the step of confirming the label information of the label sheet.

[0094] For example, if there are three blood collection tubes in a tray for a particular patient and one label for a urine container, the step of identifying label information is the step of checking information for four labels.

[0095] The step of identifying label information may further include a step of confirming whether the identified label information matches the entered patient information, and a step of entering information on completion of specimen collection corresponding to the identified label information. The step of confirming whether the identified label information matches the entered patient information is a step of reconfirming whether the label information of the specimen tool included in the tray matches the patient. If the identified label information does not match the entered patient, the identification information of the tray and the patient are incorrectly matched. By notifying this, incorrect specimen collection is prevented. If the identified label information matches the entered patient, information on completion of specimen collection corresponding to the identified label information is entered.

[0096] For example, consider a case where a tray for an admitted patient contains three blood collection tubes and one label for a urine container. Hospital staff removes one blood collection tube from the tray and identifies the label information. If the label information matches the patient, the identification step can input the completed sample information corresponding to the label information identified among the four specimens.

[0097] Label identification information can be transmitted to the management server (110). (S240) The management server (110) can collectively manage missing specimen collections and completed specimen collections for each patient.

[0098] Fig. 3 is a perspective view of a tray supply device according to one embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 4 is an exploded view of a tray supply device according to one embodiment of the present invention. Specifically, Figs. 3 and 4 are drawings for explaining the tray supply device (120) included in the patient-specific sample collection automation system of Fig. 1.

[0099] The tray supply device (120) includes a blood collection tube supply unit (210), a tray supply unit (230), and a supply unit communication unit (not shown). In addition, the tray supply device (120) may further include a label supply unit (220). In addition, the tray supply device may further include a display (240) drive unit (250) for input and control.

[0100] The blood collection tube supply unit (210) is a device that labels an empty blood collection tube according to the specimen information required for each patient and then discharges the tube.

[0101] The tray supply unit (230) is a device that classifies blood collection tubes supplied from the blood collection tube supply unit (210) into trays for each patient.

[0102] The supply device communication unit is a device that communicates with the management server (110) to receive specimen information required for each patient. The tray includes unique identification information, and the identification information of the tray and patient information can be matched and transmitted to the management server (110). The identification information of the tray, matched to each patient, can be transmitted to the management server (110) through the supply device communication unit.

[0103] The label supply unit (220) is a device that supplies label paper corresponding to the specimen information required for each patient.

[0104] The display (240) for input and control may be a display for controlling the tray supply device (120) and for indicating the progress status of the tray supply device. In addition, it may be a display for entering additional patient-specific specimen information required in addition to the information received through the management server (110).

[0105] FIG. 5 is a drawing for explaining a blood collection tube supply unit included in a tray supply device according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a partially enlarged view of a blood collection tube supply unit according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a drawing for explaining a label supply unit included in a tray supply device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0106] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a blood collection tube supply unit (210) is a device that inserts, labels, and supplies empty blood collection tubes. The blood collection tube supply unit (210) requires the function of separating and aligning randomly inserted empty blood collection tubes one by one. To this end, the blood collection tube supply unit (210) includes a blood collection tube insertion hole (212), an insertion hole separator (213), a roller portion (215), and a blood collection tube discharge hole (216).

[0107] The blood collection tube insertion hole (212) has a square shape and is formed so that one corner is longer than the length of the blood collection tube.

[0108] The injection hole separator (213) may be a membrane that divides the blood collection tube injection hole in one direction. The injection hole separator (213) can prevent the blood collection tube from entering the blood collection tube injection hole (212) in a direction perpendicular to one direction on a horizontal plane.

[0109] The roller unit (215) is provided at the bottom of the blood collection tube insertion hole (212) and performs the function of discharging randomly inserted blood collection tubes one by one into the blood collection tube discharge hole. Blood collection tubes inserted into the blood collection tube insertion hole (212) are guided to the roller unit (215) and collected. The roller unit (215) includes a roller unit main groove (215b) into which blood collection tubes can be inserted, and performs the function of discharging blood collection tubes one by one by rotating with the roller unit driving motor (214).

[0110] The roller section (215) is arranged in the direction in which the insertion hole separator (213) is arranged (hereinafter, one direction), and the roller section main groove (215b) can also be arranged in the one direction. The insertion hole separator (213) can prevent the blood collection tube from being inserted perpendicular to the one direction on a horizontal plane. However, the insertion hole separator (213) cannot prevent the blood collection tube from being inserted vertically.

[0111] When a blood collection tube is vertically inserted into the blood collection tube insertion hole (212), a problem may occur where the end of the tube gets caught in the roller main groove (215b), preventing the roller section (215) from rotating. To prevent this, it is necessary to push the vertically inserted blood collection tube in the aforementioned one direction.

[0112] To this end, the roller part (215) may include a roller part body (215a), a roller part main groove (215b), and a roller part sub groove (215c). Additionally, the roller part (215) may further include a blood collection tube hooking groove (215d).

[0113] The roller body (215a) is provided along the above-mentioned one direction. The roller driving motor (214) rotates the roller body (215a).

[0114] The roller main groove (215b) is a groove provided along the above-mentioned direction on the side of the roller body (215a). The roller main groove (215b) forms a groove large enough to allow a blood collection tube to be inserted.

[0115] The roller sub-groove (215c) is a groove that is dug diagonally around the side of the roller body (215a). When the end of a vertically inserted blood collection tube is caught in the roller sub-groove (215c), the blood collection tube can be pushed along the aforementioned direction by rotating the roller body (215a).

[0116] The roller part sub-home (215c) can be dug diagonally around the side of the roller part body (215a) so as to be connected from one side to the other side of the roller part main home (215b).

[0117] The blood collection tube catch groove (215d) may be a groove provided in one direction adjacent to the roller unit main groove (215b). The blood collection tube catch groove (215d) is a groove that prevents the end of the blood collection tube from being left in the roller unit main groove (215b).

[0118] The blood collection tube discharge hole (216) is a hole that discharges the blood collection tubes one by one by rotating the roller part (215).

[0119] The blood collection tubes discharged through the blood collection tube discharge hole (216) can be vertically arranged and then labeled in the blood collection tube labeling section (223) and then supplied to the tray. The blood collection tube vertical fixing section (224) supports the blood collection tubes vertically while labeling the blood collection tubes. The labeled blood collection tubes can be supplied to the tray through the blood collection tube discharge guide section (225).

[0120] The label paper supply unit (220) according to the present invention includes a label paper supply roll (221) and a label paper printing unit (222).

[0121] The label supply unit (220) supplies label paper that can be used for specimen tools other than those for labeling blood collection tubes.

[0122] The label printing unit (222) prints patient-specific specimen information on the label supplied from the label supply unit (220). The printed label can be supplied to a tray.

[0123] Fig. 8 is a drawing for explaining a tray supply unit according to one embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 9 is a partial enlarged view for explaining a tray moving unit of a tray supply unit according to one embodiment of the present invention. Specifically, Fig. 9 is a partial enlarged view of area B of Fig. 8.

[0124] A tray supply unit (230) according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a tray moving unit (231) and a tray identification unit (232).

[0125] The tray moving unit (231) is configured to move the tray. The tray moving unit (231) is configured to move an empty tray (300b) to a location where blood collection tubes and labels are supplied, and then move a filled tray (300a) to another location.

[0126] The tray identification unit (232) is a configuration that verifies unique identification information provided on the tray. The tray identification information is provided at the bottom of the tray and can be identified by the tray identification unit (232) through short-range wireless communication.

[0127] A tray identification unit (232) may be provided at a location where blood collection tubes and labels are supplied. The tray moving unit (231) moves an empty tray to the tray identification unit (232) and verifies the tray's identification information. After supplying a blood collection tube and label for a specific patient to the identified tray, the tray identification information is matched with the information of the specific patient. The tray identification information matched for each patient is transmitted to the management server (110).

[0128] The tray supply unit (230) may further include a first tray mounting unit (233) and a second tray mounting unit (234). The first tray mounting unit (233) may be stacked with trays (300a) filled with blood collection tubes for each patient. The second tray mounting unit (234) may be stacked with empty trays.

[0129] The tray moving unit (231) moves an empty tray (300b) supplied from the second tray mounting unit (234) to the tray identification unit (232) for identification. The tray moving unit (231) moves a tray (300a) filled with a blood collection tube and a label and stacks it in the first tray mounting unit (233).

[0130] The tray moving unit (231) includes a tray guide (2311), a guide driving unit (2312), and an up-down driving unit (2313).

[0131] The tray guide (2311) is configured to wrap around the side of the tray. Since the tray identification information is provided at the bottom of the tray, the tray guide (2311) does not wrap around the bottom of the tray.

[0132] The guide driving unit (2312) is a driving unit that moves the tray guide (2311). The guide driving unit (2312) moves the tray guide (2311) that surrounds the tray so that the tray can be positioned on the first tray mounting unit (233), the second tray mounting unit, and the tray identification unit (232).

[0133] The up-and-down driving unit (2313) is provided at the bottom of the first tray mounting unit (233) and is configured to move the tray up and down. Through the up-and-down driving unit, a tray filled with a blood collection tube and label for each patient can be stacked on the first tray mounting unit (233).

[0134] Specifically, the up-and-down driving unit (2313) is located below the first tray mounting unit (233) and includes an up-and-down moving configuration (2313a) that moves up and down, and an up-and-down driving motor (2313b) that drives the up-and-down moving configuration (2313a) up and down.

[0135] The filled tray is positioned below the first tray mounting portion (233) and is raised by the up-and-down driving portion (2313) to be stacked on the first tray mounting portion (233).

[0136] Fig. 10 is a partially enlarged view illustrating a first tray mounting portion of a tray supply unit according to one embodiment of the present invention. Specifically, Fig. 10 is an enlarged view of area C of Fig. 8.

[0137] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the first tray mounting portion (233) is configured to stack trays filled with blood collection tubes, labels, etc. The filled trays are introduced from the bottom of the first tray mounting portion (233) and stacked.

[0138] The tray inserted into the lower portion of the first tray mounting portion (233) should be able to be inserted without restriction, but should be prevented from being pulled out by gravity. To this end, the structure of the tray needs to be restricted. The tray (300) has a single-layer structure with an upper and lower portion separated, and can be formed such that the upper circumference (310) is wider than the lower circumference (320).

[0139] The first tray mounting portion (233) includes a first support portion (2331), a first guide groove, and a first sensor portion (2335).

[0140] The first support member (2331) may be provided on both sides of the space where the trays are stacked. The first support member is connected to a rotational shaft (2332) to rotate and supports the tray by being hung on the single-layer structure of the tray.

[0141] The first guide groove (2333) limits the rotation angle of the first support portion. Specifically, a protrusion of the first support portion (2331) is inserted into the first guide groove (2333) to limit the rotation angle. The first guide groove (2333) may have an arc shape that allows the first support portion (2331) to rotate upwards by a certain angle from a horizontal state.

[0142] The first sensor unit (2335) may be configured to detect the rotation of the first support unit (2331). The first sensor unit (2335) may detect that the first support unit (2331) has rotated sufficiently to allow a tray to be inserted, thereby detecting that additional trays are stacked.

[0143] To this end, the first sensor unit (2335) may include a lower first sensor unit (2335a) and an upper first sensor unit (2335b). When the first support unit (2331) rotates and the lower first sensor unit (2335a) and the upper first sensor unit (2335b) come into contact, the first sensor unit (2335) may detect that additional trays are stacked.

[0144] Additionally, the first tray mounting portion (233) may be provided with side walls (2334) on which a rotation axis (2332) is supported on both sides of the space where the trays are stacked.

[0145] Fig. 11 is a partially enlarged view illustrating a second tray mounting portion of a tray supply portion according to one embodiment of the present invention. Specifically, Fig. 11 is an enlarged view of area D of Fig. 8.

[0146] The second tray mounting unit (234) according to one embodiment of the present invention is configured to accumulate empty trays. The empty trays can be pulled out downward and moved through the tray moving unit.

[0147] The trays that are pulled out from the lower portion of the second tray mounting portion (234) must be pulled out one by one. To this end, the structure of the trays needs to be limited. The tray (300) has a single-layer structure with an upper and lower portion separated, and can be formed such that the upper circumference (310) is wider than the lower circumference (320).

[0148] The second tray mounting portion (234) includes a second support portion (2341), a rotation motor (2346), and a second sensor portion (2345).

[0149] A second support member (2341) may be provided on both sides of the space where the trays are stacked. The second support member is connected to a rotational shaft (2342) to rotate and supports the tray by being hung on the single-layer structure of the tray.

[0150] The rotary motor (2346) may be configured to be connected to the rotary shaft (2342) and to drive the second support (2341) to rotate.

[0151] The second guide groove (2343) limits the rotation angle of the second support. Specifically, the protrusion of the second support (2341) is inserted into the second guide groove (2343) to limit the rotation angle. The second guide groove (2343) may have an arc shape that allows the second support (2341) to rotate downward at a certain angle from a horizontal state.

[0152] The second sensor unit (2345) may be configured to detect the rotation of the second support unit (2341). The second sensor unit (2345) may detect that the second support unit (2341) has rotated sufficiently to allow the tray to be pulled out, thereby detecting that the tray has been pulled out.

[0153] For this purpose, the second sensor unit (2345) may include a lower second sensor unit (2345a) and an upper second sensor unit (2345b). When the second support unit (2341) rotates and the lower second sensor unit (2345a) and the upper second sensor unit (2345b) come into contact, the second sensor unit (2345) may detect that the tray is being pulled out.

[0154] Trays must be pulled out one by one from the second tray mounting portion (234). To this end, it is preferable to provide two pairs of a second support portion (2341), a rotation motor (2346), and a second sensor portion (2345) in an upper and lower position.

[0155] First, the second support member (2341) provided at the top is fixed in a horizontal position to support an empty tray located on the second layer. In this state, the second support member (2341) provided at the bottom is opened to supply an empty tray located on the first layer to the tray moving member.

[0156] Thereafter, the second support member (2341) provided at the bottom is fixed in a horizontal state to prevent empty trays from being supplied to the tray moving unit. In this state, the second support member (2341) provided at the top is opened to allow the accumulated empty trays to descend one layer at a time.

[0157] The second tray mounting portion (234) may be provided with side walls (2344) on which a rotation axis (2342) is supported on both sides of the space where the trays are stacked.

[0158] Fig. 12 is a perspective view of a tray transport device according to one embodiment of the present invention. Specifically, Fig. 12 is a drawing for explaining a tray supply device (120) included in the patient-specific sample collection automation system of Fig. 1.

[0159] A tray transport device (130) according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a driving unit (410), a tray holder (420), a tray identification unit (430), a transport device communication unit (not shown), an input unit (442), and an output unit (440).

[0160] The tray transport device (130) is a device that transports trays containing specimen tools and labels classified for each patient from the tray supply device (120).

[0161] The driving unit (410) of the tray transport device (130) can be driven manually or electrically. The driving unit can be provided on the body of the tray transport device (130). The body of the tray transport device (130) includes a storage space, and various specimen tools such as empty blood collection tubes, paper cups, urine containers, and stool containers can be provided.

[0162] The tray holder can be equipped with trays supplied from the tray supply device (120). The tray holder can be equipped with trays in each space, including partitioned spaces. The partitioned spaces can be arranged in a matrix form horizontally and vertically.

[0163] A tray identification unit (430) is provided on the tray holder to check the identification information of the tray. The tray identification unit (430) may be provided in each compartment space of the tray holder.

[0164] The communication unit (hereinafter, “transport unit communication unit”) of the tray transport device (130) can receive patient-specific required specimen information and patient-specific matching tray identification information from the management server (110). In some cases, the patient-specific matching tray identification information can be received through the tray supply device (120).

[0165] The output unit (440) of the tray transport device (130) can display a corresponding tray in response to patient information. The output unit (440) can display a compartment space in the tray holder equipped with a tray matching the patient information.

[0166] The output unit (440) may be an LED that is provided in each compartment space of the tray holder (420) and indicates the compartment in which the tray matching the input patient information is mounted.

[0167] The output unit (440) may further include a display unit that displays the required sample content for each patient input. In this case, the display unit may perform the function of the input unit (442).

[0168] The input unit (442) of the tray transport device (130) can be used to input patient information.

[0169] The control unit of the tray transport device (130) can control the tray identification unit, output unit, and communication unit. If the driving unit (410) is automatic, it controls the driving unit and can control the provided input unit and Rabec identification unit.

[0170] The label identification unit (450) of the tray transport device (130) can be used to verify the label information of the blood collection tube and label paper provided on the tray. The verified label information can be transmitted to the management server (110) via the transport device communication unit and recorded.

[0171] The label identification unit (450) can transmit the identified label information to the management server and receive information to confirm whether the specimen tool matches the input patient information.

[0172] If the label information identified by the label identification unit (450) does not match the patient information entered, the specimen is not collected from the specimen tool corresponding to the label identification unit (450). This may be due to incorrect input of the tray identification information and patient matching, or the introduction of a different specimen tool.

[0173] If the label information identified by the label identification unit (450) matches the input patient information, it can be input to the management server that the sample collection corresponding to the label identification unit (450) among the sample collections required for the input patient is performed.

[0174] The display unit can output the number and types of specimen collections to be performed for the input patient. Furthermore, the display unit can output information on specimen collections performed among the number and types of specimen collections to be performed for the input patient. In this case, the performed specimen collections may be specimen collections corresponding to the identified label information.

[0175] While representative embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above, those skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications to the above-described embodiments are possible without departing from the scope of the present invention. Therefore, the scope of the present invention should not be limited to the described embodiments, but should be defined not only by the claims set forth below but also by equivalents thereof.

Claims

1. Management server containing specimen information required for each patient; A tray supply device for supplying blood collection tubes labeled in a tray in response to the above specimen information; and A tray transport device for transporting the above tray is included; The above tray supply device A supply device communication unit that communicates with the above management server; A blood collection tube supply unit that supplies a blood collection tube labeled in response to the above specimen information; A tray supply unit for classifying the labeled blood collection tubes for each patient into trays containing identification information; The above tray transport device A transport device communication unit that communicates with the above management server; A tray holder for mounting a tray supplied from the above tray supply device; A tray identification unit for obtaining identification information of the above tray; and An automated patient specimen collection system, characterized by including an output unit that displays a tray matched to each patient.

2. In paragraph 1, The above tray supply section A tray moving unit for moving a tray; and An automated patient specimen collection system, characterized by including a tray identification unit for verifying identification information displayed on a tray.

3. In paragraph 2, The above tray supply device An automated patient specimen collection system, characterized in that it further includes a label supply unit that supplies a label corresponding to the specimen information to the tray.

4. In paragraph 3, The above tray supply device At least one of the blood collection tubes and label sheets labeled for each patient is sorted into an identified tray, An automated patient specimen collection system characterized by transmitting tray information identified for each patient to the management server.

5. In paragraph 1, The above tray transport device An automated patient specimen collection system, characterized in that it further includes a label identification unit that identifies label information.

6. In paragraph 5, The above tray transport device Identify the label information of the specimen tool contained in the identified tray, An automated patient specimen collection system characterized by transmitting patient-specific specimen completion information corresponding to identified label information to the management server.

7. Step of entering specimen information required for each patient; A step of sorting labeled blood collection tubes corresponding to the above specimen information into identified trays; a step of transporting the above tray; and A method for automated patient-specific specimen collection, comprising: identifying a tray matched to a patient; 8. In paragraph 7, The steps for classifying the above labeled blood collection tubes are: A method for automated specimen collection for each patient, characterized in that it further includes classifying labels corresponding to the specimen information into the identified trays.

9. In paragraph 8, The above automated method for collecting specimens for each patient is: A step of identifying the label information of the specimen tool contained in the identified tray; and A method for automating patient-specific specimen collection, characterized by further comprising a step of entering specimen completion information corresponding to identified label information.

10. In paragraph 9, The step of identifying the above label information is: A step for verifying whether the identified label information matches the entered patient information; and A method for automating specimen collection for each patient, characterized in that it further includes a step of inputting information on completion of specimen collection corresponding to the identified label information when the information matches the entered patient information.

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