Automated analysis device, and method for determining presence or absence of abnormality in automated analysis device

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a technique that makes it possible to determine a failure of a solenoid valve provided in a flow path. The present disclosure proposes an automated analysis device that automatically performs component analysis of a sample, the automated analysis device comprising: a pump that feeds a liquid; a liquid flow path that is provided from the pump to a feed destination target of the liquid; a first pressure sensor that is provided in the liquid flow path; a second pressure sensor that is provided on the feed destination target side from the first pressure sensor in the liquid flow path; a first solenoid valve that is provided between the first pressure sensor and the second pressure sensor in the liquid flow path; a control unit that controls opening and closing of the first solenoid valve; and a determining unit that determines the presence or absence of an abnormality in the first solenoid valve on the basis of a first pressure value output by the first pressure sensor and a second pressure value output by the second pressure sensor (see Fig. 2).

Description

Automatic analyzer and method for determining whether an abnormality exists in the automatic analyzer

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an automatic analyzer and a method for determining the presence or absence of an abnormality in the automatic analyzer.

[0002] An automatic analyzer (e.g., an automatic biochemical analyzer) is a device that automatically analyzes the components of biological samples (hereinafter referred to as "samples") such as patient serum or urine. Such automatic biochemical analyzers generally use various sensors to monitor the internal conditions of the device to prevent the output of erroneous analysis results, and are equipped with a function to sound an alarm to warn the user if an abnormality is detected.

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses that in an automatic analyzer, (i) a dispensing abnormality detection unit determines the amount of liquid in a reaction vessel from the liquid level in the reaction vessel after dispensing a first reagent, after dispensing a sample, and after dispensing a second reagent, which is detected by a liquid level detection signal from a liquid level detection device, and detects the occurrence of a dispensing abnormality based on this liquid volume; (ii) a malfunction identification unit, when the dispensing abnormality detection unit detects the occurrence of a dispensing abnormality, performs a malfunction identification process depending on whether the amount of liquid in the reaction vessel is more or less than a predetermined amount, and identifies the location of the malfunction; and (iii) a malfunction resolution processing unit performs a malfunction resolution process depending on the location of the malfunction identified by the malfunction identification unit.

[0004] JP 2009-210336 A

[0005] Typically, an automatic analyzer is provided with flow paths for delivering liquids such as reagents used in analysis, and these flow paths are operated to deliver and stop delivery as needed. In addition, electromagnetic valves are provided within the flow paths to control delivery and stop of liquid delivery to the flow paths.

[0006] However, in conventional techniques including the technique disclosed in Patent Document 1, failure of the solenoid valve is not detected, and therefore, there is a possibility that the analysis operation may continue even if the solenoid valve is faulty. Therefore, if the solenoid valve fails, there is a risk that an erroneous analysis result may be output. In view of such circumstances, the present disclosure proposes a technique that makes it possible to determine whether a solenoid valve provided in a flow path has failed.

[0007] In order to solve the above problems, the present disclosure proposes an automatic analyzer that automatically performs component analysis of a sample, comprising: a pump that delivers liquid; a liquid flow path provided from the pump to a target portion to which the liquid is delivered; a first pressure sensor provided in the liquid flow path; a second pressure sensor provided in the liquid flow path and closer to the target portion to which the liquid is delivered than the first pressure sensor; a first solenoid valve provided in the liquid flow path between the first pressure sensor and the second pressure sensor; a control unit that controls the opening and closing of the first solenoid valve; and a determination unit that determines whether or not there is an abnormality in the first solenoid valve based on a first pressure value output by the first pressure sensor and a second pressure value output by the second pressure sensor.

[0008] The present disclosure also proposes a method for determining whether or not an abnormality exists in an automatic analyzer that automatically analyzes the components of a sample, the automatic analyzer comprising: a pump that delivers liquid; a liquid flow path provided from the pump to a target portion to which the liquid is delivered; a first pressure sensor provided in the liquid flow path; a second pressure sensor provided in the liquid flow path and closer to the target portion to which the liquid is delivered than the first pressure sensor; and a first solenoid valve provided in the liquid flow path between the first pressure sensor and the second pressure sensor, the method including: a control unit controlling to open the first solenoid valve; a determination unit that determines whether or not an abnormality exists, based on the difference between a first pressure value output by the first pressure sensor and a second pressure value output by the second pressure sensor, determining whether or not the first solenoid valve is operating normally in response to the opening control; the control unit controlling to close the first solenoid valve; and a determination unit that determines whether or not the first solenoid valve is operating normally in response to the closing control, based on the difference between the first pressure value and the second pressure value.

[0009] Further features related to the present disclosure will be apparent from the description and accompanying drawings of this specification, and aspects of the present disclosure may be realized and realized by the elements and combinations of various elements and aspects set forth in the following detailed description and the appended claims.

[0010] It should also be understood that the descriptions in this specification are exemplary and illustrative only and are not intended to limit the scope or application of the present disclosure in any way.

[0011] According to the technology disclosed herein, an automatic analyzer can determine whether or not there is a malfunction in the solenoid valve, so that analysis will not be continued if the solenoid valve remains malfunctioning, and therefore erroneous analysis results will not be output.

[0012] Fig. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the schematic configuration of an automatic analyzer 100 according to the present embodiment when viewed from above. Fig. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the schematic configuration of a cleaning flow path system of a sample dispensing probe 206 of the automatic analyzer 100 according to Example 1. Fig. 3 is a flowchart for explaining the process of determining whether an electromagnetic valve is abnormal according to Example 1. Fig. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the schematic configuration of a cleaning flow path system of a sample dispensing probe 206 of the automatic analyzer 100 according to Example 2. Fig. 5 is a flowchart for explaining the process of determining whether an electromagnetic valve is abnormal according to Example 2.

[0013] Hereinafter, embodiments and examples 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 and implementation examples in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure, but these are intended to aid in understanding the present disclosure and are by no means intended to limit the interpretation of the present disclosure.

[0014] Although the present embodiment has been described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to implement 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.

[0015] 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration example of an automatic analyzer 100 according to this embodiment, as viewed from above. The automatic analyzer 100 shown in Fig. 1 includes a reagent disk 102, a reaction disk 103, a reagent dispensing mechanism 104, a sample dispensing mechanism 105, a washing tank 107, a measurement unit 110, a washing mechanism 111, and a control unit 112.

[0016] Samples introduced into the automated analyzer 100 are placed in sample containers 108, which are test tubes, and transported on a rack 106. The rack 106 is loaded with a plurality of sample containers 108. The samples may be blood, such as serum or whole blood, or urine. The transport method is not limited to the rack-based transport method shown in the figure; a disk-based method can also be used, in which the sample containers 108 are transported by a rotating motion similar to the reagent disk 102 described below.

[0017] The reaction disk 103 holds a plurality of cells 109 for reaction and measurement. The reaction disk 103 is rotatable and has a disk-like shape. The cells 109 contain a mixture liquid obtained by mixing and reacting a sample and a reagent.

[0018] The sample dispensing mechanism 105 rotates a sample dispensing probe 206 (see FIG. 2 ) that dispenses a liquid sample to an aspiration position where the sample is aspirated from the sample container 108, a discharge position where the sample is discharged into the cell 109, and a washing position where the tip of the sample dispensing probe 206 is washed in the washing tank 107. The sample dispensing mechanism 105 also lowers the sample dispensing probe 206 at the aspiration position, discharge position, and washing position to match the heights of the sample container 108, the cell 109, and the washing tank 107, respectively. The sample dispensing probe 206 and the reagent probe are equipped with a liquid contact detection sensor (not shown for convenience of illustration) that detects the liquid level, and it is possible to confirm from the sensor signal that they have come into contact with the target liquid (sample or reagent).

[0019] The reagent disk 102 stores multiple reagent containers 101 containing reagents used in the analysis process, which are reacted in cells 109, and includes a reagent disk and a reagent container holder (both not shown). The reagent disk 102 has a cooling function to increase the on-board stability of the reagent properties. Each reagent container 101 is filled with a reagent to be mixed with a sample and reacted with, or a reagent or detergent required for pre-processing of the analysis. In the case of a disk-type reagent disk 102, the reagent disk 102 rotates before dispensing the reagent and transports the appropriate reagent container to the reagent aspirating position, allowing the reagent dispensing mechanism 104 to aspirate the reagent required for the analysis. The reagent containers 101 may be composed of multiple different reagent bottles.

[0020] The reagent dispensing mechanism 104 is equipped with a reagent probe (omitted for convenience of illustration) for dispensing a liquid reagent, and dispenses a reagent or detergent filled in a reagent container 101 into a cell 109 held on the reaction disk 103. The reagent dispensing mechanism 104 dispenses a reagent or detergent at a predetermined timing in a process including analysis or its pretreatment and cleaning. The configuration of the reagent dispensing mechanism 104 is the same as that of the sample dispensing mechanism 105, so a description thereof will be omitted.

[0021] The cleaning tank 107 is a mechanism for cleaning the tip of the sample probe of the sample dispensing mechanism 105 and the inner and outer walls of the tip of the reagent probe of the reagent dispensing mechanism 104 .

[0022] The measurement unit 110 measures the concentration of a substance to be measured from a mixture of a sample and a reagent that is reacting or has reacted in the cell 109. The measurement method may be a method of measuring transmitted light or a method of measuring the amount of luminescence, and varies depending on the substance to be measured. There are no limitations on the measurement method, and the number of measurement methods is not limited to one, but can be two or more.

[0023] The cleaning mechanism 111 is composed of a discharge nozzle for discharging cleaning water and detergent, a suction nozzle for sucking reaction liquid, etc. The cleaning mechanism 111 cleans the cell 109 with cleaning water and detergent.

[0024] The control unit 112 is electrically connected to each mechanism within the automated analyzer 100, and is a device that controls operations such as the opening and closing of a first liquid feed pump 201 (described later) and various solenoid valves (see FIG. 2). The control unit 112 can be configured, for example, by a display device such as a liquid crystal display, a memory configured as a hard disk memory or an external memory, an A / D converter, an interface (such as a data port), an input device such as a keyboard, and a computer having a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and an MPU (Micro Processing Unit). The control unit 112 may be configured by one computer or multiple computers, and is not particularly limited.

[0025] The CPU (not shown) of the control unit 112 sends commands to each mechanism and controls the operation of each mechanism. The CPU of the control unit 112 also A / D converts and imports data (photometric values) obtained from the measurement unit 110 via an A / D converter (not shown). The CPU of the control unit 112 also performs arithmetic processing using the imported data (photometric values). In other words, the CPU of the control unit 112 can control each mechanism and also perform arithmetic processing of data.

[0026] The interface (not shown) is connected to a memory serving as a recording device and a keyboard for inputting operation commands, etc. The memory records information such as analysis parameters, analysis item requests, calibration results, and analysis results.

[0027] The control of the operation of each device by the control unit 112 is executed based on various programs recorded in the storage device. Note that the control processing of the operation executed by the control unit 112 may be integrated into one program, or may be separated into multiple programs, or a combination thereof. Furthermore, some or all of the programs may be realized by dedicated hardware or may be modularized.

[0028] The display device includes a user interface such as a touch panel display, and outputs information to the user and receives various inputs from the user.

[0029] In the automated analyzer 100 having the above configuration, the color development or luminescence that occurs as a result of the reaction between the target component in the sample and the reagent is measured by the measurement unit 110, and the concentration of the target component in the sample is calculated by the control unit 112 through arithmetic processing.

[0030] The configuration of the automated analyzer 100 is not limited to a single analysis module configuration as shown in FIG. 1 , but may be configured to connect two or more analysis modules capable of measuring various identical or different analysis items and preprocessing modules that perform preprocessing via a transport device.

[0031] A description will be given of an example of the configuration and operation of a characteristic cleaning flow path system in the automated analyzer 100 according to Example 1. Note that in Example 1 and Example 2 described below, the cleaning flow path of the sample dispensing probe 206 will be described as an example, but the technology according to this example can also be applied to the case of a reagent probe in which the same probe is washed and used repeatedly.

[0032] 2 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration example of a cleaning flow path system of the sample dispensing probe 206 of the automated analyzer 100 according to Example 1. The cleaning flow path system of the sample dispensing probe 206 includes a first liquid feed pump 201, a first pressure sensor 202, a sample syringe 204, a second pressure sensor 205, a first solenoid valve 203, and a determination unit 207.

[0033] The first liquid supply pump 201 is a pump for supplying a first cleaning liquid (system water) to the sample dispensing probe 206 to clean the sample dispensing probe 206, and is connected to a container (not shown) in which the first cleaning liquid is stored.

[0034] The first pressure sensor 202 is provided in the first cleaning flow path 301 that connects the sample dispensing probe 206 and the first liquid supply pump 201, and is a sensor for monitoring the pressure of the first liquid supply pump 201 by detecting the pressure in the first cleaning flow path 301.

[0035] The sample syringe 204 is a member that is driven when aspirating and dispensing (dispensing) a sample.

[0036] The second pressure sensor 205 is located between the sample syringe 204 and the sample dispensing probe 206, at a position closer to the sample dispensing probe 206 than the first pressure sensor 202 in the first cleaning flow path 301, and is a sensor that monitors pressure fluctuations in the sample dispensing probe 206 by detecting the pressure in the first cleaning flow path 301.

[0037] The first solenoid valve 203 is provided between the first pressure sensor 202 and the second pressure sensor 205 in the first cleaning flow path 301 , downstream of the first liquid feed pump 201 and upstream of the sample syringe 204 .

[0038] The judgment unit 207 is a part that judges whether there is an abnormality in the first solenoid valve 203 by comparing the first pressure value output by the first pressure sensor 202 with the second pressure value output by the second pressure sensor 205, and is preferably part of the control unit 112 mentioned above.

[0039] In the automated analyzer 100 of this embodiment, the control unit 112 operates each mechanism of the washing flow path system as follows. The determination unit 207 can determine whether or not an abnormality exists. For example, when performing the aspirating / dispensing operation of the sample dispensing probe 206, the control unit 112 closes the first solenoid valve 203. At this time, the determination unit 207 detects a dispensing abnormality by monitoring the pressure value of the sample syringe 204 using the detection value of the second pressure sensor 205. Furthermore, when performing a washing operation of the sample dispensing probe 206, the control unit 112 opens the first solenoid valve 203. At this time, the determination unit 207 detects a washing flow rate abnormality by monitoring the pressure value of the first liquid supply pump 201 using the detection value of the first pressure sensor 202.

[0040] 3 is a flowchart for explaining the process of determining whether the solenoid valve is abnormal according to Example 1. The abnormality determination process (normal / abnormal check of the first solenoid valve 203) may be executed as part of an operation check when the automatic analyzer 100 starts operating.

[0041] (i) Step S301 When checking the normality / abnormality of the first solenoid valve 203, the control unit 112 first controls the first solenoid valve 203 to be "open." At this time, if the first solenoid valve 203 is operating normally, the first pressure sensor 202 detects the pressure value of the first liquid feed pump 201, and the second pressure sensor 205 also detects the pressure value of the first liquid feed pump 201. At this time, a value for determining that the first solenoid valve 203 is in the "open" state is set as a first reference value, taking into account pressure loss, allowable error, etc., from the difference between the pressure values ​​of the first pressure sensor 202 and the second pressure sensor 205 (hereinafter simply referred to as the "pressure difference"). Furthermore, a value for determining that the first solenoid valve 203 is in the "closed" state is set as a second reference value, taking into account pressure loss, allowable error, etc., from the difference between the pressure values ​​of the first pressure sensor 202 and the pressure values ​​of the second pressure sensor 205.

[0042] (ii) Step S302 In a state in which the first solenoid valve 203 is controlled to be "open" (it is unclear whether the first solenoid valve 203 is actually "open"), the determination unit 207 determines whether the difference between the first pressure value and the second pressure value (pressure difference) is equal to or less than a first reference value. If the pressure difference is equal to or less than the first reference value (Yes in step S302), the process proceeds to step S306. On the other hand, if the pressure difference exceeds the first reference value (No in step S302), the determination unit 207 determines that the first solenoid valve 203 is in an abnormal state, and proceeds to step S303 to determine the type of abnormality (whether the first solenoid valve 203 is in an abnormal state in which it is completely closed, or in an abnormal state in which a leak is occurring).

[0043] (iii) Step S303: The determination unit 207 determines whether the difference between the first pressure value and the second pressure value (pressure difference) exceeds the first reference value and is less than the second reference value. If the pressure difference is less than the second reference value (Yes in step S303), the process proceeds to step S304. On the other hand, if the pressure difference is equal to or greater than the second reference value (No in step S303), the process proceeds to step S305.

[0044] (iv) Step S304: The determination unit 207 determines that the first solenoid valve 203 is in an abnormal state causing leakage. That is, it is determined that the first solenoid valve 203 is not fully open despite being controlled to be "open" in step S301.

[0045] (v) Step S305: The determination unit 207 determines that the first solenoid valve 203 is completely closed. That is, it is determined that the first solenoid valve 203 remains completely closed, even though the first solenoid valve 203 was controlled to be "open" in step S301.

[0046] (vi) Step S306 The control unit 112 closes the first solenoid valve 203. At this time, if the first solenoid valve 203 is operating normally, the first pressure sensor 202 detects the pressure value of the first liquid feed pump 201, and the second pressure sensor 205 detects the pressure value of the sample syringe 204. At this time, a value for determining whether the first solenoid valve 203 is in the "closed" state is set as a third reference value, taking into account pressure loss, allowable error, etc., based on the difference between the pressure values ​​of the first pressure sensor 202 and the second pressure sensor 205. However, the third reference value may be the same as the second reference value. Furthermore, a value for determining whether the first solenoid valve 203 is in the "open" state is set as a fourth reference value, taking into account the difference between the pressure values ​​of the first pressure sensor 202 and the pressure values ​​of the second pressure sensor 205, pressure loss, allowable error, etc., based on the difference between the pressure values ​​of the first pressure sensor 202 and the pressure sensor 205, pressure loss, allowable error, etc., based on the difference between the pressure values ​​of the first pressure sensor 202 and the pressure sensor 205. However, the fourth reference value may be the same as the first reference value.

[0047] (vii) Step S307 In a state in which the first solenoid valve 203 is controlled to be "closed" (a state in which it is unclear whether the first solenoid valve 203 is actually "closed"), the determination unit 207 determines whether the difference (pressure difference) between the first pressure value and the second pressure value is equal to or greater than a third reference value. If the pressure difference is equal to or greater than the third reference value (Yes in step S307), the determination unit 207 determines that the first solenoid valve 203 is operating normally and terminates the abnormality determination process. On the other hand, if the pressure difference is less than the third reference value (No in step S307), the determination unit 207 determines that the first solenoid valve 203 is in an abnormal state and proceeds to step S308 to determine the type of abnormality (whether the first solenoid valve 203 is in an abnormal state in which it is completely closed or in which a leak is occurring).

[0048] (viii) Step S308: The determination unit 207 determines whether the difference between the first pressure value and the second pressure value (pressure difference) exceeds the fourth reference value and is less than the third reference value. If the pressure difference exceeds the fourth reference value (Yes in step S308), the process proceeds to step S309. On the other hand, if the pressure difference is equal to or less than the fourth reference value (No in step S308), the process proceeds to step S310.

[0049] (ix) Step S309: The determination unit 207 determines that the first solenoid valve 203 is in an abnormal state causing leakage. That is, it is determined that the first solenoid valve 203 is not completely closed despite being controlled to be “closed” in step S306.

[0050] (x) Step S310: The determination unit 207 determines that the first solenoid valve 203 is fully open. That is, it is determined that the first solenoid valve 203 remains fully open despite the first solenoid valve 203 being controlled to be "closed" in step S306.

[0051] The second embodiment relates to a process for determining whether or not there is an abnormality in the first solenoid valve 203 when a plurality of cleaning liquids are used depending on the composition of the contaminants in the automatic analyzer 100 .

[0052] <Configuration Example of Washing Channel of Sample Dispensing Probe 206> FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration example of a washing channel system of the sample dispensing probe 206 of the automatic analyzer 100 according to the second embodiment.

[0053] As shown in FIG. 4 , the washing flow path system of the sample dispensing probe 206 according to the second embodiment is configured by adding a second liquid supply pump 303 that supplies second washing water to the sample dispensing probe 206 for washing the sample dispensing probe 206 to the exemplary configuration of the washing flow path system shown in the first embodiment ( FIG. 2 ). A second solenoid valve 208 is provided at the position where the first washing flow path 301 and the second washing flow path 302 are connected. The second solenoid valve 208 is configured to be able to switch the connection destination of the sample dispensing probe 206 between the first washing flow path 301 and the second washing flow path 302. The other configurations are the same as those of the washing flow path system according to the first embodiment, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted. In the second embodiment, when washing the sample dispensing probe 206 with the second washing liquid, the control unit 112 closes the first solenoid valve 203 and turns the second solenoid valve 208 ON (connecting between NC and COM).

[0054] 5 is a flowchart for explaining the process of determining whether a solenoid valve is abnormal according to Example 2. As in Example 1, the abnormality determination process (checking whether the first solenoid valve 203 is normal / abnormal) may be executed during an operation check at the start of operation of the automated analyzer 100. As will be described later, the second solenoid valve 208 is turned ON (closed) when control is being performed to open the first solenoid valve 203, and the second solenoid valve 208 is turned OFF (open) when control is being performed to close the first solenoid valve 203. This makes it easier to measure the difference between the pressure value measured by the first pressure sensor 202 and the pressure value measured by the second pressure sensor 205, and makes it easier to detect an abnormal state.

[0055] (i) Step S501 When checking whether the first solenoid valve 203 is normal or abnormal, the control unit 112 first controls the first solenoid valve 203 to be "open."

[0056] (ii) Step S502 Subsequently, the control unit 112 turns on the second electromagnetic valve 208 (connection between NC and COM: control the second electromagnetic valve 208 to the "closed" state).

[0057] When the first solenoid valve 203 is in the "open" state and the second solenoid valve 208 is in the "closed" state, if the first solenoid valve 203 is operating normally, the pressure value of the first liquid feed pump 201 is detected by the first pressure sensor 202, and the pressure value of the first liquid feed pump 201 is also detected by the second pressure sensor 205. At this time, a value for determining the open state of the first solenoid valve 203 is set as a fifth reference value based on the difference between the pressure values ​​of the first pressure sensor 202 and the second pressure sensor 205 (hereinafter simply referred to as the "pressure difference"), taking into account pressure loss, allowable error, etc. Furthermore, a value for determining the closed state of the first solenoid valve 203 is set as a sixth reference value based on the difference (pressure difference) between the pressure values ​​of the first pressure sensor 202 and the second pressure sensor 205, taking into account pressure loss, allowable error, etc.

[0058] (iii) Step S503 With the first solenoid valve 203 in the "open" position (it is unclear whether the valve is actually "open") and the second solenoid valve 208 in the "on" position (closed) the determination unit 207 determines whether the difference between the first pressure value and the second pressure value (pressure difference) is equal to or less than a fifth reference value. If the pressure difference is equal to or less than the fifth reference value (Yes in step S503), the process proceeds to step S507. On the other hand, if the pressure difference exceeds the fifth reference value (No in step S503), the determination unit 207 determines that the first solenoid valve 203 is in an abnormal state and proceeds to step S504 to determine the type of abnormality (whether the first solenoid valve 203 is completely closed or leaking).

[0059] (iv) Step S504: The determination unit 207 determines whether the difference between the first pressure value and the second pressure value (pressure difference) exceeds the fifth reference value and is less than the sixth reference value. If the pressure difference is less than the sixth reference value (Yes in step S504), the process proceeds to step S505. On the other hand, if the pressure difference is equal to or greater than the sixth reference value (No in step S504), the process proceeds to step S506.

[0060] (v) Step S505: The determination unit 207 determines that the first solenoid valve 203 is in an abnormal state causing leakage. That is, it is determined that the first solenoid valve 203 is not completely open despite being controlled to be "open" in step S501.

[0061] (vi) Step S506: The determination unit 207 determines that the first electromagnetic valve 203 is completely closed. That is, it is determined that the first electromagnetic valve 203 remains completely closed, even though the first electromagnetic valve 203 was controlled to be "open" in step S501.

[0062] (vii) Step S507 The control unit 112 controls the first electromagnetic valve 203 to be "closed."

[0063] (viii) Step S508 Subsequently, the control unit 112 turns off the second electromagnetic valve 208 (connection between NO and COM: the second electromagnetic valve 208 is in the "open" state).

[0064] When the first solenoid valve 203 is in the "closed" state and the second solenoid valve 208 is in the "open" state, if the first solenoid valve 203 is operating normally, the first pressure sensor 202 detects the pressure value of the first liquid feed pump 201, and the second pressure sensor 205 detects the pressure value of the sample syringe 204. At this time, a value used to determine the "open" state of the first solenoid valve 203 is set as a seventh reference value based on the difference (pressure difference) between the pressure values ​​of the first pressure sensor 202 and the second pressure sensor 205, taking into account pressure loss, allowable error, etc. However, the seventh reference value may be set to the same value as the sixth reference value. Furthermore, a value used to determine the "closed" state of the first solenoid valve 203 is set as an eighth reference value based on the difference (pressure difference) between the pressure values ​​of the first pressure sensor 202 and the second pressure sensor 205, taking into account pressure loss, allowable error, etc. However, the eighth reference value may be set to the same value as the fifth reference value.

[0065] (ix) Step S509 In a state in which the first solenoid valve 203 is controlled to be "closed" (a state in which it is unclear whether the first solenoid valve 203 is actually "closed") and the second solenoid valve 208 is turned OFF (open), the determination unit 207 determines whether the difference (pressure difference) between the first pressure value and the second pressure value is equal to or greater than a seventh reference value. If the pressure difference is equal to or greater than the seventh reference value (Yes in step S509), the determination unit 207 determines that the first solenoid valve 203 is operating normally and terminates the abnormality determination process. On the other hand, if the pressure difference is less than the seventh reference value (No in step S509), the determination unit 207 determines that the first solenoid valve 203 is in an abnormal state and proceeds to step S510 to determine the type of abnormality (whether the first solenoid valve 203 is in an abnormal state in which it is completely closed or in which a leak is occurring).

[0066] (x) Step S510: The determination unit 207 determines whether the difference between the first pressure value and the second pressure value (pressure difference) exceeds the eighth reference value and is less than the seventh reference value. If the pressure difference exceeds the eighth reference value (Yes in step S510), the process proceeds to step S511. On the other hand, if the pressure difference is equal to or less than the eighth reference value (No in step S510), the process proceeds to step S512.

[0067] (xi) Step S511: The determination unit 207 determines that the first solenoid valve 203 is in an abnormal state causing a leak. That is, it is determined that the first solenoid valve 203 is not completely closed (is open by a predetermined percentage or more) even though it was controlled to be "closed" in step S507.

[0068] (xii) Step S512: The determination unit 207 determines that the first electromagnetic valve 203 is fully open. That is, it is determined that the first electromagnetic valve 203 remains fully open despite the first electromagnetic valve 203 being controlled to be "closed" in step S507.

[0069] The second pressure value of the sample dispensing probe 206 may fluctuate due to clogging with foreign matter, accumulation of dirt on the opening or inner wall, etc. In the second embodiment, by using the second solenoid valve 208, it is possible to determine whether the first solenoid valve 203 is abnormal (failed) without the second pressure value being affected by the state of the sample dispensing probe 206.

[0070] <Summary> (i) The automatic analyzer 100 according to this embodiment comprises a liquid flow path (such as the first flow path 301) extending from a first liquid delivery pump 201 to a liquid (e.g., cleaning liquid) delivery target part (probe: e.g., a sample dispensing probe 206), a first pressure sensor 202 provided in the liquid flow path, a second pressure sensor 205 provided in the liquid flow path closer to the liquid delivery target part (probe) side than the first pressure sensor 202, a first solenoid valve 203 provided in the liquid flow path between the first pressure sensor 202 and the second pressure sensor 205, a control unit 112 that controls the opening and closing of the first solenoid valve 203, and a determination unit 207 that determines whether or not there is an abnormality in the first solenoid valve 203 based on the first pressure value output by the first pressure sensor 202 and the second pressure value output by the second pressure sensor 205 (Examples 1 and 2). The presence or absence of an abnormality in the first solenoid valve 203 is determined based on the pressure difference between two pressure sensors installed in the liquid flow path on either side of the first solenoid valve 203, making it possible to accurately detect an abnormality in the first solenoid valve 203 in an inexpensive manner without making significant changes to the configuration of the automatic analyzer.

[0071] (ii) In the first embodiment, when the control unit 112 is controlling the opening of the first solenoid valve 203 and the difference between the first pressure value and the second pressure value exceeds a first reference value, the determination unit 207 determines that the first solenoid valve is in an abnormal state (step S301 → step S302). Furthermore, when the difference between the first pressure value and the second pressure value exceeds a second reference value that is greater than the first reference value, the determination unit 207 determines that the first solenoid valve is in an abnormal state (i.e., completely closed) (step S303 → step S305). On the other hand, when the difference between the first pressure value and the second pressure value is less than a second reference value that is greater than the first reference value, the determination unit 207 determines that the first solenoid valve 203 is not completely open and is in an abnormal state (a state in which the first solenoid valve 203 is open by a predetermined percentage; the degree to which the first solenoid valve 203 is open can be appropriately set by setting the second reference value) (step S303 → step S304). By doing so, when control is being exercised to open the first solenoid valve 203, the type of abnormal state can be detected, allowing the user to easily determine how to deal with a malfunction of the first solenoid valve 203. For example, if it is determined that the first solenoid valve 203 is completely closed despite control to open it, it is possible to investigate an abnormality in the electrical system of the first solenoid valve 203 or consider replacing the first solenoid valve 203. Furthermore, if it is determined that the first solenoid valve 203 is in an abnormal state where it is leaking (a state where it is open by a predetermined percentage) despite control to open it is possible to consider the possibility that dirt on the first solenoid valve 203 is making it difficult to open.

[0072] Furthermore, when the control unit 112 is controlling the first solenoid valve 203 to close, if the difference between the first pressure value and the second pressure value is less than a third reference value, the determination unit 207 determines that the first solenoid valve 203 is in an open, abnormal state (step S306 → step S307). Furthermore, if the difference between the first pressure value and the second pressure value is equal to or less than a fourth reference value greater than the third reference value, the determination unit 207 determines that the first solenoid valve 203 is in a fully open, abnormal state. On the other hand, if the difference between the first pressure value and the second pressure value exceeds a fourth reference value greater than the third reference value, the determination unit 207 determines that the first solenoid valve 203 is not fully closed and is in an abnormal state where there is leakage (a state where the first solenoid valve 203 is open by a predetermined percentage; the degree to which the valve is open can be appropriately set by setting the fourth reference value). This allows the type of abnormal state to be detected when the control unit 112 is controlling the first solenoid valve 203 to close, allowing the user to easily determine how to deal with a malfunction of the first solenoid valve 203. For example, if it is determined that the first solenoid valve 203 is fully open despite control to close it, it is possible to check for an abnormality in the electrical system of the first solenoid valve 203 or consider replacing the first solenoid valve 203. Furthermore, if it is determined that the first solenoid valve 203 is in an abnormal state where it is leaking despite control to close it, it is possible to consider the possibility that dirt or the like on the first solenoid valve 203 is making it difficult to close.

[0073] (iii) In Example 2, the automated analyzer 100 further includes a second solenoid valve 208 provided in the liquid flow path between the second pressure sensor 205 and the liquid destination target part (sample dispensing probe 206). In this case, when the determination unit 207 determines whether or not there is an abnormality in the first solenoid valve 203, the control unit 112 controls the second solenoid valve 208 to close when controlling the first solenoid valve 203 to open, and controls the second solenoid valve 208 to open when controlling the first solenoid valve 203 to close.

[0074] Specifically, when the control unit 112 controls the first solenoid valve 203 to open and the second solenoid valve 208 to close, if the difference between the first pressure value and the second pressure value exceeds a first reference value (a fifth reference value in the second embodiment), the determination unit 207 determines that the first solenoid valve 203 is in an abnormal state (step S501 → step S502 → step S503). Furthermore, if the difference between the first pressure value and the second pressure value exceeds a second reference value (a sixth reference value in the second embodiment) that is greater than the first reference value (the fifth reference value), the determination unit 207 determines that the first solenoid valve 203 is in an abnormal state, that is, completely closed (step S504 → step S506). On the other hand, if the difference between the first pressure value and the second pressure value is less than a second reference value (sixth reference value) that is greater than the first reference value (fifth reference value), the determination unit 207 determines that the first solenoid valve 203 is not fully open and is in an abnormal state where there is leakage (a state where the first solenoid valve 203 is open by a predetermined percentage; the degree to which the first solenoid valve 203 is open can be appropriately set by setting the sixth reference value) (step S504 → step S505). In this manner, when the first solenoid valve 203 is controlled to open and the second solenoid valve 208 is controlled to close, the type of abnormal state can be detected, allowing the user to easily determine how to deal with a failure of the first solenoid valve 203. For example, if it is determined that the first solenoid valve 203 is fully closed despite the control to open the first solenoid valve 203, an abnormality in the electrical system of the first solenoid valve 203 can be investigated, or replacement of the first solenoid valve 203 can be considered. Furthermore, if it is determined that the first solenoid valve 203 is in an abnormal state of leaking despite the opening control being specified, it is possible to consider the possibility that dirt or the like on the first solenoid valve 203 is making it difficult to open.

[0075] Furthermore, the determination unit 207 determines that the first solenoid valve 203 is in an open, abnormal state when the difference between the first pressure value and the second pressure value is less than a third reference value (a seventh reference value in the second embodiment) while the control unit 112 is controlling to close the first solenoid valve 203 and to open the second solenoid valve 208. The determination unit 207 also determines that the first solenoid valve 203 is in a fully open, abnormal state when the difference between the first pressure value and the second pressure value is equal to or less than a fourth reference value (an eighth reference value in the second embodiment) that is greater than the third reference value (the seventh reference value) while the control unit 112 is controlling to close the first solenoid valve 203 and to open the second solenoid valve 208. On the other hand, if the difference between the first pressure value and the second pressure value exceeds a fourth reference value (eighth reference value) that is greater than the third reference value (seventh reference value), the determination unit 207 determines that the first solenoid valve 203 is not completely closed and is in an abnormal state where there is leakage (a state where the valve is open by a predetermined percentage; the degree to which the valve is open can be appropriately set by setting the eighth reference value). This allows the type of abnormal state to be detected when the first solenoid valve 203 is being controlled to close, allowing the user to easily determine how to deal with a malfunction of the first solenoid valve 203. For example, if the first solenoid valve 203 is determined to be completely open despite being controlled to close, the user can investigate an abnormality in the electrical system of the first solenoid valve 203 or consider replacing the first solenoid valve 203. Furthermore, if the first solenoid valve 203 is determined to be in an abnormal state where there is leakage (a half-open state) despite being controlled to close, the user can consider the possibility that the first solenoid valve 203 is difficult to close due to dirt or the like.

[0076] (iv) The functions of this embodiment and each example 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 that 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-mentioned embodiments, 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.

[0077] 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.

[0078] Furthermore, the program code of the software that realizes the functions of the embodiments and each example 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.

[0079] 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 this embodiment and each example. Various functions can also be formed by appropriately combining multiple components disclosed in this embodiment and each example. For example, some components may be omitted from all the components shown in the embodiment and each example, or components from different examples may be appropriately combined.

[0080] Although specific examples 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.

[0081] 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.

[0082] In addition, other implementations of the present disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art from consideration of the present embodiments and examples. 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.

[0083] 100 Automatic analyzer 101 Reagent container 102 Reagent disk 103 Reaction disk 104 Reagent dispensing mechanism 105 Sample dispensing mechanism 106 Rack 107 Washing tank 108 Sample container 109 Cell 110 Measuring unit 111 Washing mechanism 112 Control unit 201 First liquid delivery pump 202 First pressure sensor 203 First solenoid valve 204 Sample syringe 205 Second pressure sensor 206 Sample dispensing probe 207 Determination unit 208 Second solenoid valve 301 First washing flow path (first flow path) 302 Second washing flow path (second flow path) 303 Second liquid delivery pump

Claims

1. An automatic analyzer that automatically performs component analysis of a sample, comprising: a pump that feeds a liquid; a liquid flow path provided from the pump to a liquid feed destination target portion; a first pressure sensor provided in the liquid flow path; a second pressure sensor provided in the liquid flow path on the liquid feed destination target portion side of the first pressure sensor; a first electromagnetic valve provided between the first pressure sensor and the second pressure sensor in the liquid flow path; a control unit that controls opening and closing of the first electromagnetic valve; and a determination unit that determines the presence or absence of an abnormality of the first electromagnetic valve based on a first pressure value output by the first pressure sensor and a second pressure value output by the second pressure sensor.

2. The automatic analyzer according to claim 1, wherein the determination unit determines that the first electromagnetic valve is in an abnormal state when a difference between the first pressure value and the second pressure value exceeds a first reference value while the control unit is performing control to open the first electromagnetic valve.

3. The automatic analyzer according to claim 2, wherein the determination unit determines that the first electromagnetic valve is in an abnormal state of being completely closed when the difference between the first pressure value and the second pressure value further exceeds a second reference value that is greater than the first reference value.

4. The automatic analyzer according to claim 2, wherein the determination unit determines that the first electromagnetic valve is in an abnormal state of not being fully opened and leaking when the difference between the first pressure value and the second pressure value is less than a second reference value that is greater than the first reference value.

5. The automatic analyzer according to claim 1, wherein the determination unit determines that the first electromagnetic valve is in an abnormal state of being opened when the difference between the first pressure value and the second pressure value is less than a third reference value while the control unit is performing control to close the first electromagnetic valve.

6. The automatic analyzer according to claim 5, wherein the determination unit determines that the first electromagnetic valve is in an abnormal state of being completely opened when the difference between the first pressure value and the second pressure value is equal to or less than a fourth reference value that is greater than the third reference value.

7. The automatic analyzer according to claim 5, wherein the determination unit determines that the first electromagnetic valve is in an abnormal state of not being fully closed and leaking when the difference between the first pressure value and the second pressure value exceeds a fourth reference value that is greater than the third reference value.

8. In claim 1, further comprising a second electromagnetic valve provided between the second pressure sensor and the liquid delivery destination target portion in the liquid flow path, when the determination unit determines the presence or absence of an abnormality in the first electromagnetic valve, the control unit performs control to close the second electromagnetic valve when performing control to open the first electromagnetic valve, and performs control to open the second electromagnetic valve when performing control to close the first electromagnetic valve, an automatic analyzer.

9. In claim 8, when the control unit performs control to open the first electromagnetic valve and control to close the second electromagnetic valve, and the difference between the first pressure value and the second pressure value exceeds a first reference value, the determination unit determines that the first electromagnetic valve is in an abnormal state, an automatic analyzer.

10. In claim 9, when the difference between the first pressure value and the second pressure value exceeds a second reference value that is greater than the first reference value, the determination unit determines that the first electromagnetic valve is in an abnormal state of being completely closed, an automatic analyzer.

11. In claim 9, when the difference between the first pressure value and the second pressure value is less than a second reference value that is greater than the first reference value, the determination unit determines that the first electromagnetic valve is in an abnormal state of not being fully open and leaking, an automatic analyzer.

12. In claim 8, when the control unit performs control to close the first electromagnetic valve and control to open the second electromagnetic valve, and the difference between the first pressure value and the second pressure value is less than a third reference value, the determination unit determines that the first electromagnetic valve is in an abnormal state of being open, an automatic analyzer.

13. In claim 12, when the difference between the first pressure value and the second pressure value is less than or equal to a fourth reference value that is greater than the third reference value, the determination unit determines that the first electromagnetic valve is in an abnormal state of being fully open, an automatic analyzer.

14. In claim 12, when the difference between the first pressure value and the second pressure value exceeds a fourth reference value that is greater than the third reference value, the determination unit determines that the first electromagnetic valve is in an abnormal state of not being fully closed and leaking, an automatic analyzer.

15. A method for determining the presence or absence of an abnormality in an automatic analyzer that automatically performs component analysis of a sample, the automatic analyzer comprising: a pump for feeding a liquid; a liquid flow path provided from the pump to a liquid feeding destination target portion; a first pressure sensor provided in the liquid flow path; a second pressure sensor provided in the liquid flow path on the liquid feeding destination target portion side of the first pressure sensor; and a first electromagnetic valve provided between the first pressure sensor and the second pressure sensor in the liquid flow path, the method comprising: the control unit performing control to open the first electromagnetic valve; the determination unit determining whether the first electromagnetic valve is operating normally with respect to the opening control based on a difference between a first pressure value output by the first pressure sensor and a second pressure value output by the second pressure sensor; the control unit performing control to close the first electromagnetic valve; and the determination unit determining whether the first electromagnetic valve is operating normally with respect to the closing control based on the difference between the first pressure value and the second pressure value.

16. The method according to claim 15, wherein the automatic analyzer further comprises a second electromagnetic valve provided between the second pressure sensor and the liquid feeding destination target portion in the liquid flow path, and when the determination unit determines the presence or absence of an abnormality in the opening operation of the first electromagnetic valve, the control unit performs control to open the first electromagnetic valve and control to close the second electromagnetic valve, and when the determination unit determines the presence or absence of an abnormality in the closing operation of the first electromagnetic valve, the control unit performs control to close the first electromagnetic valve and control to open the second electromagnetic valve.

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