Blood collection tube transfer device

Abstract

A blood collection tube transfer device according to the present invention comprises: a blood collection tube transfer part for transferring a blood collection tube by using pneumatic pressure; a lift for vertically moving the blood collection tube; and a blood collection tube feeding part for supplying, to the blood collection tube transfer unit, the blood collection tube moved through the lift.

Description

Blood collection tube transport device

[0001] The present invention relates to a blood collection tube transport device, and more specifically, to a blood collection tube transport device that transports a blood collection tube using pneumatic pressure.

[0002] Test tubes, long, tube-shaped tubes with one end blocked, are used to store various samples, such as blood, animal and plant specimens, and chemicals. These tubes are labeled with information about the sample inside, thereby increasing work efficiency.

[0003] In particular, in medical institutions such as hospitals, various types of test tubes are used for blood collection, depending on the amount of blood contained and the type of blood collection. Test tubes are marked with barcodes, indicating the date and time of blood collection, as well as the name, gender, and age of the person who collected the blood. These barcodes are printed on information labels, such as barcode labels, and attached to the outer surface of the test tube.

[0004] The work of workers entering information for such a large number of test tubes of various types requires a considerable amount of work, and cases of incorrect information being entered frequently occur due to this repetitive entry work.

[0005] Therefore, recently, an automated test tube labeling device is being used to select a required test tube from a stack of test tubes before containing the relevant sample, such as blood, and to attach a label containing text information or electronic information, such as a barcode, about the patient or test subject to the surface of the selected test tube.

[0006] Test tubes labeled with these labeling devices were transported using a test tube transport device to collect blood samples from patients and then tested.

[0007] However, conventional test tube transport devices mainly used a structure that stored multiple test tubes in a square frame cassette and then transported them. In other words, since conventional test tube transport devices stored multiple test tubes in a cassette and then transported them, there was a problem that the test tubes that had been level-attached using a level-attaching device could not be transported in-line immediately after level-attaching was completed, which resulted in a long transport time.

[0008] In addition, there was a problem that the volume of the cassette in which a large number of test tubes are stored was large, and thus there were many spatial restrictions due to surrounding obstacles during the process of installing the test tube transport device.

[0009] To solve these problems, Korean Patent Publication No. 10-1948735, entitled “Conveyor unit and test tube transport device using the same,” discloses a conveyor unit that moves test tubes in vertical and horizontal directions.

[0010] However, the conventional test tube transport device has a problem in that it cannot transport test tubes quickly because it is implemented as a conveyor unit.

[0011] Additionally, as a conveyor unit with a complex structure is used, there is a problem of high installation costs.

[0012] The present invention is intended to solve the problems of the above-mentioned prior art, and an object of the present invention is to provide a blood collection tube transport device capable of transporting a blood collection tube using first air pressure and second air pressure.

[0013] Another object of the present invention is to provide a blood collection tube transport device that prevents a blood collection tube discharged through a blood collection tube feeding unit from shaking and supplies the blood collection tube in a vertical direction toward a blood collection tube transport unit.

[0014] In order to achieve the above object, a blood collection tube transport device according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a blood collection tube transport unit that transports a blood collection tube using air pressure; a lift that vertically moves the blood collection tube; and a blood collection tube feeding unit that supplies the blood collection tube moved through the lift to the blood collection tube transport unit, wherein the blood collection tube transport unit includes a direction adjusting unit that rotates the blood collection tube supplied from the blood collection tube feeding unit to align it in a predetermined direction; a blood collection tube launching unit that launches the blood collection tube supplied from the direction adjusting unit into a blood collection tube transporting tube connected to the blood collection tube transport unit using air pressure; and a blood collection tube position adjusting unit that vertically pushes and moves the blood collection tube aligned in a predetermined direction in the direction adjusting unit to a first position within the blood collection tube launching unit, wherein the blood collection tube launching unit includes a main body that includes a cylindrical portion coaxial with the blood collection tube transporting tube, a support member that maintains the blood collection tube at the first position, a first air pressure providing hole formed on a lower side surface, and a second air pressure providing hole formed on an upper side surface; A first air pressure providing unit connected to the first air pressure providing hole and providing a first air pressure within the main body to move the blood collection tube located at the first location to a second location within the main body; and a second air pressure providing unit connected to the second air pressure providing hole and providing a second air pressure greater than the first air pressure within the main body to fire the blood collection tube moved to the second location toward the blood collection tube transport tube; wherein the first air pressure is set to a level that can move the blood collection tube from the first location to the second location.

[0015] In addition, a blood collection tube transport device according to another embodiment of the present invention includes a blood collection tube transport unit for transporting a blood collection tube; a lift for vertically moving the blood collection tube; and a blood collection tube feeding unit for supplying the blood collection tube moved through the lift to the blood collection tube transport unit, wherein the blood collection tube feeding unit includes: a support frame coupled to one side of the lift; a support roller positioned on the support frame for rotatably supporting the blood collection tube; a support roller driving unit for providing a driving force for rotating the support roller; a pair of first detection sensors provided on each of both sides of the support frame for detecting a state in which the blood collection tube is positioned on the support roller; an opening / closing member provided on one side of the support roller in the longitudinal direction and moving in a direction toward the support roller and a direction away from the support roller to form a discharge space through which the blood collection tube is discharged; an opening / closing member driving unit for providing a driving force for moving the opening / closing member; And a processor for controlling the operation of the opening / closing member driving unit to move the opening / closing member, and the process of discharging the blood collection tube by the operation of the processor is characterized in that, when the presence of the blood collection tube is detected by the pair of first detection sensors, the opening / closing member is moved to a first position in which a first gap between the support roller and the opening / closing member has a value greater than the body width of the blood collection tube and smaller than the head width of the blood collection tube, a second step in which, after a first predetermined time has elapsed, the opening / closing member is moved to a second position in which a second gap between the support roller and the opening / closing member has a value equal to the body width of the blood collection tube, and a third step in which, after a second predetermined time has elapsed, the opening / closing member is moved to a third position in which a third gap between the support roller and the opening / closing member has a value greater than the head width of the blood collection tube.

[0016] The blood collection tube transport device according to the present invention can provide the effect of quickly moving the blood collection tube to a required location by moving the blood collection tube from a first location to a second location within the main body using a first air pressure and then firing the blood collection tube moved to the second location into a blood collection tube transport tube using a second air pressure.

[0017] In addition, according to the present invention, it is possible to provide an effect of preventing the blood collection tube discharged through the blood collection tube feeding section from shaking and supplying it vertically toward the blood collection tube transport section.

[0018] In addition, according to the present invention, since the structure of the blood collection tube transport device is manufactured compactly, it can provide the effect of being able to be installed in various structures without being restricted by the surroundings in various installation spaces.

[0019] Figure 1 is a block diagram schematically showing the configuration of a blood collection tube transport device according to the present invention.

[0020] FIG. 2 is a perspective view schematically showing one side of a blood collection tube transport device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0021] FIG. 3 is a perspective view schematically showing the other side structure of a blood collection tube transport device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0022] FIG. 4 is a drawing for explaining the structure of a direction control unit and a blood collection tube position control unit according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0023] FIG. 5 is a drawing for explaining the structure of a blood collection tube launcher according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] FIGS. 6 to 10 are drawings for explaining the operation process of a blood collection tube transport device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] Fig. 11 is a perspective view schematically showing one side of a structure of a blood collection tube transport device according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] Fig. 12 is a perspective view schematically showing the other side structure of a blood collection tube transport device according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] FIG. 13 is a drawing for explaining the structure of a blood collection tube feeding unit and a blood collection tube delivery unit of a blood collection tube transport device according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Fig. 14 is a drawing for explaining the operation process of an opening / closing member according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Figures 16 and 17 are drawings for explaining the operation process of a blood collection tube transport device according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that, where possible, identical components are represented by identical reference numerals in the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, detailed descriptions of well-known functions and configurations that may obscure the gist of the present invention will be omitted.

[0031] FIG. 1 is a block diagram schematically showing the configuration of a blood collection tube transport device according to the present invention, FIG. 2 is a perspective view schematically showing one side structure of a blood collection tube transport device according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 3 is a perspective view schematically showing the other side structure of a blood collection tube transport device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] And, FIG. 4 is a drawing for explaining the structure of a direction control unit and a blood collection tube position adjustment unit according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 5 is a drawing for explaining the structure of a blood collection tube launch unit according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 1 to 5, the configuration of a blood collection tube transport device according to one embodiment of the present invention will be specifically described.

[0034] Referring to FIG. 1, a blood collection tube transport device according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a lift (100), a blood collection tube feeding unit (200), and a blood collection tube transport unit.

[0035] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, the lift (100) can have a plurality of blood collection tubes (C) labeled therein arranged in a horizontal direction, and can move the plurality of blood collection tubes (C) in a vertical direction to supply them to the blood collection tube feeding unit (200).

[0036] The blood collection tube feeding unit (200) can supply the blood collection tube (C) moved vertically by the lift (100) to the blood collection tube transport unit.

[0037] A blood collection tube transport unit according to one embodiment of the present invention can transport a blood collection tube using pneumatic pressure. This blood collection tube transport unit may include a direction control unit (400), a blood collection tube launch unit (600), and a position adjustment unit (500).

[0038] Referring to FIG. 4 together with FIGS. 2 and 3, a direction control unit (400) according to one embodiment of the present invention can align a blood collection tube (C) supplied from a blood collection tube feeding unit (200) in a certain direction by rotating it. This direction control unit (400) can include a control unit body (410), a rotating member (420), a rotating member driving unit (430), and a contact sensor (440).

[0039] The control unit body (410) may be provided with a first connection hole (411) connected to the discharge port (312) of the transmission unit body (310) and a second connection hole (412) connected to the inlet hole (614) of the body (610). In the present embodiment, the control unit body (410) is presented as having a circular shape, but it should be noted that the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0040] The rotating member (420) may be formed in a circular shape identical to the control unit body (410) and may be provided to be rotatable within the control unit body (410).

[0041] A direction changing passage (421) may be provided in the rotating member (420) to change the direction of the blood collection tube (C) discharged through the discharge port (312), and the direction changing passage (421) may be formed in a shape that penetrates from one edge of the rotating member (420) toward the other edge in a diagonal direction.

[0042] The rotary member drive unit (430) can transmit a driving force to rotate the rotary member (420). In the present embodiment, the rotary member drive unit (430) is implemented as a belt drive unit and a drive motor, similar to the support roller drive unit (230), but it should be noted that the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0043] Meanwhile, a contact sensor (440) may be provided on one side of the direction change path (421). This contact sensor (440) detects the state in which a blood collection tube (C) has entered the direction change path (421).

[0044] Accordingly, when the blood collection tube (C) discharged through the outlet (312) of the blood collection tube delivery unit (300) passes through the first connection hole (411) formed in the control unit body (410) and enters the direction change path (421), the direction control unit (400) detects the blood collection tube (C) entering the direction change path (421) through the contact sensor (440). When the contact sensor (440) detects that the blood collection tube (C) has entered the direction change path (421), the rotary member driving unit (430) operates to rotate the rotary member (420) so that the direction of the direction change path (421) moves from the first connection hole (411) side to the second connection hole (412) side. In this case, the blood collection tube (C) whose direction has been changed in the direction change path (421) may be positioned so that the head of the blood collection tube (C) faces downward, and the body of the blood collection tube (C) may be positioned in a direction toward the second connecting hole (412).

[0045] Again, referring to FIG. 4 together with FIGS. 2 and 3, the blood collection tube position adjustment unit (500) according to one embodiment of the present invention can push up the blood collection tube (C) located in the direction adjustment unit (400) and move it to the first position (P1) within the blood collection tube launch unit (600). This blood collection tube position adjustment unit (500) can include a position adjustment member (510) and a position adjustment member driving unit (520).

[0046] The position adjustment member (510) can push up the blood collection tube (C) located in the direction change path (421) and move it to the first position (P1).

[0047] More specifically, the position adjustment member (510) is positioned in a state exposed to the outside of the direction adjustment member (400), and when the direction of the blood collection tube (C) is adjusted by the direction adjustment member (400), it enters the direction change path (421) and pushes the blood collection tube (C) up to the first position (P1), and then returns to the original position.

[0048] The position adjustment member drive unit (520) can provide a driving force for moving the position adjustment member (510). In the present embodiment, the position adjustment member drive unit (520) is presented as being implemented as a belt drive unit and a drive motor, but it should be noted that the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0049] Meanwhile, the position adjustment member driving unit (520) can be coupled to a mounting plate (530) provided on one side of the direction adjustment unit (400).

[0050] Referring to FIG. 5 together with FIGS. 2 to 4, a blood collection tube launcher (600) according to one embodiment of the present invention can receive a blood collection tube (C) from a direction control unit (400) and launch it toward a blood collection tube transport tube (700) by air pressure. This blood collection tube launcher (600) can include a main body (610), a first air pressure providing unit (620), and a second air pressure providing unit (630).

[0051] The main body (610) may include a cylindrical portion (618) coaxial with the blood collection tube transport tube (700) and a support member (660) that maintains the blood collection tube (C) at a first position (P1). The main body (610) may be connected to the upper side of the direction control member (400) while standing vertically.

[0052] The main body (610) can be formed by combining the first cover (611) and the second cover (612).

[0053] A firing space (613) can be formed inside the cylindrical portion (618).

[0054] An entry hole (614) connected to the second connection hole (412) of the control unit body (410) may be provided at the lower end of the cylindrical portion (618), and a firing hole (615) connected to the blood collection tube transfer tube (700) may be provided at the upper end thereof.

[0055] Additionally, a first air pressure providing hole (616) may be formed on the lower side of the main body (610), and a second air pressure providing hole (617) may be formed on the upper side of the main body (610).

[0056] The first air pressure providing unit (620) can be connected to the first air pressure providing hole (616) and can provide the first air pressure within the main body (610) to move the blood collection tube (C) located at the first position (P1) to the second position (P2) within the main body (610). The first air pressure providing unit (620) can include a first air pressure generator (621), a first air pressure transfer pipe (622), and a first air pressure port (623).

[0057] The first air pressure generator (621) can provide the first air pressure toward the first air pressure providing hole (616). At this time, the first air pressure providing hole (616) can be connected to a first air pressure port (623), and the first air pressure can be transferred to a first air pressure transfer pipe (622) connecting the first air pressure generator (621) and the first air pressure port (623), and then provided into the main body (610) through the first air pressure port (623).

[0058] At this time, the first air pressure may be set to a level that can move the blood collection tube (C) from the first position (P1) to the second position (P2). More specifically, when the blood collection tube (C) is moved from the first position (P1) to the second position (P2) by the first air pressure, the operation of the first air pressure generator (621) is set to stop so that the first air pressure is not provided through the first air pressure providing hole (616), thereby preventing the blood collection tube (C) moved to the second position (P2) from being affected by the first air pressure.

[0059] The second air pressure providing unit (630) can be connected to the second air pressure providing hole (617) and can provide a second air pressure greater than the first air pressure within the main body (610) to fire the blood collection tube (C) moved to the second position (P2) toward the blood collection tube transport tube (700). This second air pressure providing unit (630) can include a second air pressure generator (631), a second air pressure transport tube (632), and a second air pressure port (633).

[0060] The second air pressure generator (631) can provide second air pressure toward the second air pressure providing hole (617). At this time, a second air pressure port (633) can be connected to the second air pressure providing hole (617), and the second air pressure can be transferred to the second air pressure transfer pipe (632) connecting the second air pressure generator (631) and the second air pressure port (633), and then provided into the main body (610) through the second air pressure port (633).

[0061] At this time, the second air pressure can be set to a pressure that can transport the blood collection tube (C) from the second location (P2) to the final destination. More specifically, the second air pressure provided from the second air pressure generator (631) is set to be greater than the first air pressure so that the blood collection tube (C) can be transported to the final destination by the second air pressure.

[0062] That is, the blood collection tube transport device according to one embodiment of the present invention moves the blood collection tube (C) from the first position (P1) to the second position (P2) within the main body (610) using the first air pressure provided through the first air pressure providing unit (620), and moves the blood collection tube (C) moving to the second position (P2) to the final destination by firing the blood collection tube (C) toward the blood collection tube transport unit (700) using the second air pressure greater than the first air pressure provided through the second air pressure providing unit (630).

[0063] A blood collection tube launcher (600) according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include a first lever portion (640) for opening and closing a first air pressure providing hole (616) and a second lever portion (650) for opening and closing a second air pressure providing hole (617).

[0064] The first lever portion (640) may include a first lever (641) and a first rotation limiting member (642).

[0065] The first lever (641) can be rotatably coupled to the inner wall of the main body (610) by first hinge projections (641a) protruding from both ends on one side. At this time, the first lever (641) can be rotated around the first hinge projections (641a) to selectively open and close the first air pressure providing hole (616).

[0066] The first rotation limiting member (642) is coupled to the first slit hole (S1) formed on the inner wall surface of the main body (610) to limit the rotation range of the first lever (641). At this time, a first passage hole (642a) through which a blood collection tube (C) passes may be provided in the central portion of the first rotation limiting member (642).

[0067] Meanwhile, the first lever (641) can be rotated by the first air pressure provided through the first air pressure providing hole (616) to close the first passage hole (642a).

[0068] More specifically, in the process of moving the blood collection tube (C) to the first position (P1) within the main body (610) by the position adjustment member (510), the blood collection tube (C) passes through the first passage hole (642a) and moves to the first position (P1). When the blood collection tube (C) moves to the first position (P1), the first lever (641) is rotated by the first air pressure, and the rotation of the first lever (641) is restricted by the first rotation restriction member (642), thereby closing the first passage hole (642a). Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the first air pressure from being provided toward the first passage hole (642a).

[0069] The second lever portion (650) may include a second lever (651) and a second rotation limiting member (652).

[0070] The second lever (651) can be rotatably coupled to the inner wall of the main body (610) by a second hinge projection (651a) protruding from both ends of one side. At this time, the second lever (651) can be rotated around the second hinge projection (651a) to selectively open and close the second air pressure providing hole (617).

[0071] The second rotation limiting member (652) is coupled to the second slit hole (S2) formed on the inner wall surface of the main body (610) to limit the rotation range of the second lever (651). At this time, a second passage hole (652a) through which a blood collection tube (C) passes may be provided in the central portion of the second rotation limiting member (652).

[0072] Meanwhile, the second lever (651) can be rotated by the second air pressure provided through the second air pressure providing hole (617) to close the second passage hole (652a).

[0073] More specifically, in the process of moving the blood collection tube (C) to the second position (P2) within the main body (610) by the first air pressure providing unit (620), the blood collection tube (C) passes through the second passage hole (652a) and moves to the second position (P2). When the blood collection tube (C) moves to the second position (P2), the second lever (651) is rotated by the second air pressure, and the rotation of the second lever (651) is restricted by the second rotation restriction member (652), thereby closing the second passage hole (652a). Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the second air pressure from being provided through the second passage hole (652a).

[0074] A support member (660) provided in a main body (610) according to one embodiment of the present invention can support a blood collection tube (C) moved to a first position (P1) by a position adjustment member (510). This support member (660) can include a first elastic frame (661), a second elastic frame (662), a first elastic frame fixing protrusion (663), a second elastic frame fixing protrusion (664), a first elastic support protrusion (665), and a second elastic support protrusion (666).

[0075] The first elastic frame (661) and the second elastic frame (662) may be provided on each side of the inner wall of the main body (610).

[0076] The first elastic frame fixing protrusion (663) can be formed protruding from the lower end of the first elastic frame (661) and fixed to the inner wall of the main body (610), and the second elastic frame fixing protrusion (664) can be formed protruding from the lower end of the second elastic frame (662) and fixed to the inner wall of the main body (610).

[0077] The first elastic support protrusion (665) and the second elastic support protrusion (666) may be formed to extend so that the width between the upper end of the first elastic frame (661) and the upper end of the second elastic frame (662) becomes narrower, and then extended again so that the width becomes wider, thereby forming an elastic passage hole (667) through which the blood collection tube (C) passes. At this time, the first elastic support protrusion (665) and the second elastic support protrusion (666) may support the blood collection tube (C) passing through the elastic passage hole (667) at the first position (P1).

[0078] That is, the blood collection tube (C) moved to the first position (P1) of the main body (610) by the position adjustment member (510) can pass through the elastic passage hole (667) and be supported by the first elastic support protrusion (665) and the second elastic support protrusion (666).

[0079] Meanwhile, the blood collection tube transport tube (700) can be connected to the launch hole (615) of the main body (610), and the blood collection tube (C) launched from the blood collection tube launcher (600) can be moved to the blood collection tube receiving device (not shown) through the blood collection tube transport tube (700). At this time, the blood collection tube transport tube (700) can be composed of a plastic tube. Accordingly, the blood collection tube transport device can be installed in various structures without being restricted by the installation space.

[0080] Hereinafter, the operation process of a blood collection tube transport device according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 6 to 10.

[0081] FIG. 6 is a drawing schematically showing a state in which a blood collection tube has entered a direction-changing path according to one embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 7 is a drawing schematically showing a state in which a blood collection tube has changed direction in a direction-changing path by rotating a rotating member according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 8 is a drawing schematically showing a state in which a blood collection tube has moved to a first position by a position-adjusting member according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0082] And, FIG. 9 is a drawing schematically showing a state in which an upward moving member according to one embodiment of the present invention returns to its original position, and FIG. 10 is a drawing schematically showing a state in which a blood collection tube moves from a first position to a second position using a first pneumatic providing unit according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0083] First, a blood collection tube (C) moved vertically through a lift (100) is supplied to a blood collection tube feeding unit (200).

[0084] Next, the blood collection tube (C) supplied to the blood collection tube feeding unit (200) is supplied to the direction control unit (400).

[0085] Next, referring to FIG. 6, the blood collection tube (C) supplied to the direction control unit (400) through the blood collection tube feeding unit (200) passes through the first connecting hole (411) of the control unit body (410) and then enters the direction change path (421) of the rotating member (420), and the blood collection tube (C) that enters the direction change path (421) comes into contact with the contact sensor (440).

[0086] Next, referring to Fig. 7, when it is confirmed by the contact sensor (440) that the blood collection tube (C) has entered the direction changing path (421), the rotational member (420) is rotated by the operation of the rotational member driving unit (430), thereby rotating the direction changing path (421). At this time, the head of the blood collection tube (C) is positioned in the direction changing path (421) so that it faces downward and the body of the blood collection tube (C) faces the blood collection tube launcher (600).

[0087] Next, referring to FIG. 8, the position adjusting member (510) enters the direction changing path (421) by the operation of the position adjusting member driving unit (520) to move the blood collection tube (C) to the first position (P1) of the main body (610). At this time, the blood collection tube (C) passes through the second connection hole (412) of the control unit main body (410) and then enters the entry hole (614) of the main body (610). The blood collection tube (C) that has entered the entry hole (614) passes through the first passage hole (642a) and rotates the first lever (641) toward the first air pressure providing hole (616), and then passes through the elastic passage hole (667) of the support member (660) and is supported at the first position (P1) by the first elastic support protrusion (665) and the second elastic support protrusion (666).

[0088] Next, referring to FIG. 9, when the blood collection tube (C) is supported by the support member (660) at the first position (P1), the position adjustment member (510) returns to the original position.

[0089] Next, referring to FIG. 10, a first air pressure is provided within the main body (610) through the first air pressure providing unit (620) to move the blood collection tube (C) supported on the support member (660) toward the second position (P2). At this time, the first air pressure is set to a level that can move the blood collection tube (C) from the first position (P1) to the second position (P2).

[0090] Here, when the first air pressure is provided to the first air pressure providing hole (616), the first lever (641) is moved toward the first passage hole (642a) by the first air pressure, thereby closing the first passage hole (642a). Accordingly, the first air pressure is prevented from being provided toward the first passage hole (642a).

[0091] In addition, as the blood collection tube (C) moves toward the second position (P2), it passes through the second passage hole (652a), and as it passes through the second passage hole (652a), the second lever (651) is rotated toward the second air pressure providing hole (617) to close the second air pressure providing hole (652a).

[0092] Next, although not shown, a second air pressure is provided within the main body (610) through the second air pressure providing unit (630) to launch the blood collection tube (C) moved to the second position (P2) toward the blood collection tube transport tube (700). At this time, as the second air pressure is provided to the second air pressure providing hole (617), the second lever (651) moves toward the second passage hole (652a) to close the second passage hole (652a). Accordingly, the second air pressure is prevented from being provided toward the second passage hole (652a). Meanwhile, the second air pressure is set to a level that can transport the blood collection tube (C) from the second position (P2) to the final destination.

[0093] The blood collection tube (C) fired toward the blood collection tube transport tube (700) is transported to the final destination through the blood collection tube transport tube (700).

[0094] Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 11 to 14, the configuration and operation of a blood collection tube transport device according to another embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail.

[0095] FIG. 11 is a perspective view schematically showing one side structure of a blood collection tube transport device according to another embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 12 is a perspective view schematically showing the other side structure of a blood collection tube transport device according to another embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 13 is a drawing for explaining the structure of a blood collection tube feeding unit and a blood collection tube delivery unit of a blood collection tube transport device according to another embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 14 is a drawing for explaining the operation process of an opening / closing member according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0096] Referring to FIGS. 11 and 12 together with FIG. 1, a blood collection tube transport device according to another embodiment of the present invention may include a lift (100), a blood collection tube feeding unit (200), and a blood collection tube transport unit.

[0097] Referring to FIG. 13 together with FIGS. 11 and 12, the blood collection tube feeding unit (200) can supply the blood collection tube (C) moved vertically by the lift (100) to the blood collection tube transport unit. The blood collection tube feeding unit (200) can include a support frame (210), a support roller (220), a support roller driving unit (230), an opening / closing member (240), an opening / closing member driving unit (250), and a processor (not shown).

[0098] The support frame (210) can be coupled to one side of the lift (100), and a support roller (220) and an opening / closing member (240) can be positioned on the inside of the support frame (210).

[0099] The support roller (220) can be rotatably positioned at the inner lower portion of the support frame (210) and can support a labeled blood collection tube (C). At this time, the support roller (220) can be made entirely or partially of an elastic member.

[0100] The support roller drive unit (230) is connected to the support roller (220) and transmits driving force to rotate the support roller (220). In the present embodiment, the support roller drive unit (230) is presented as being implemented as a belt drive unit and a drive motor, but it should be noted that the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0101] When the support roller (220) is rotated by the support roller drive unit (230), the blood collection tube (C) supported on the support roller (220) can be rotated. At this time, the label scanner (260) provided on the upper side of the support frame (210) scans the labeling information attached to the blood collection tube (C).

[0102] The label scanner (260) scans the patient's information labeled on the blood collection tube (C) to determine whether the blood collection tube (C) contains accurate patient information. If the patient's information scanned by the label scanner (260) is normal, the blood collection tube (C) is discharged toward the blood collection tube delivery unit (300).

[0103] Meanwhile, a pair of first detection sensors (270) for detecting the state in which the blood collection tube (C) is positioned on the support roller (220) may be provided on each of the two sides of the support frame (210). The pair of first detection sensors (270) in the present embodiment may be implemented as an image sensor, a light sensor, a laser sensor, etc., and may be modified and applied in any way as long as they are implemented to detect the state in which the blood collection tube (C) is positioned on the support roller (220).

[0104] The opening / closing member (240) is provided on the inside of the support frame (210), and may be provided on one side of the length of the support roller (220), and moves in a direction toward the support roller (220) and a direction away from the support roller (220) to form a discharge space (241) through which the blood collection tube (C) is discharged. At this time, the opening / closing member (240) may be made entirely or partially of an elastic member.

[0105] More specifically, the blood collection tube (C) supported on the support roller (220) can be discharged toward the blood collection tube delivery unit (300) described later through the space between the support roller (220) and the opening / closing member (240), i.e., the discharge space (241), which is formed by the movement of the opening / closing member (240).

[0106] The opening / closing member driving unit (250) is connected to the opening / closing member (240) and transmits driving force for movement of the opening / closing member (240). In this embodiment, the opening / closing member driving unit (250) is presented as being implemented with the same belt driving unit and driving motor as the support roller driving unit (230), but it should be noted that the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0107] The processor can control the operation of the opening / closing member driving unit (250) that moves the opening / closing member (240). For example, the processor controls the operation of the opening / closing member driving unit (250) so that the opening / closing member (240) can move to the first position, the second position, and the third position, which will be described later.

[0108] Meanwhile, the blood collection tube (C) needs to be supplied to the next stage, the blood collection tube transport unit, in a specific direction. For example, if the blood collection tube (C) is supplied to the blood collection tube transport unit in various directions, the problem of having to adjust the position of the blood collection tube (C) in the blood collection tube transport unit each time may arise. In addition, if the blood collection tube (C) is supplied in a position that does not fit the shape of the part of the blood collection tube transport unit that receives the supplied blood collection tube (C), the supply of the blood collection tube (C) may be disrupted.

[0109] In this embodiment, to prevent such problems, the blood collection tube (C) is discharged through a three-step process.

[0110] The process of discharging the blood collection tube (C) through the operation of the processor is as follows: first, when a pair of first detection sensors (270) detect the presence of the blood collection tube (C), as illustrated in (a) of FIG. 14, a first process of moving the opening / closing member (240) to a first position (G1) in which the first gap (W1) between the support roller (220) and the opening / closing member (240) has a value greater than the body width (H2) of the blood collection tube (C) and smaller than the head width (H1) of the blood collection tube (C) is performed. In this case, the body of the blood collection tube (C) is discharged through the discharge space (241) while the head of the blood collection tube (C) is caught between the support roller (220) and the opening / closing member (240).

[0111] Next, as illustrated in (b) of FIG. 14, after a predetermined first time has elapsed, a second process is performed in which the opening / closing member (240) is moved to a second position (G2) in which the second gap (W2) between the support roller (220) and the opening / closing member (240) has the same value as the body width of the blood collection tube (C). In this process, the opening / closing member (240) moves to a position in which the gap between the support roller (220) and the opening / closing member (240) becomes substantially the same as the width (outer diameter) of the body of the blood collection tube (C), and may be stopped in this state (i.e., in a state in which the second gap (W2) between the support roller (220) and the opening / closing member (240) and the outer diameter of the blood collection tube (C) are the same), or may be moved further in the direction in which the gap becomes narrower to a position in which pressure is applied to the body of the blood collection tube (C).

[0112] Meanwhile, since both the support roller (220) and the opening / closing member (240) are made of elastic material, even if the second gap (W2) between the support roller (220) and the opening / closing member (240) moves in a direction that narrows, the shape of the elastic material portion of the support roller (220) and the opening / closing member (240) can be deformed to apply pressure to the body of the blood collection tube (C). This can prevent the body of the blood collection tube (C) from shaking in the discharge space (241).

[0113] Finally, as shown in (c) of Fig. 14, after a predetermined second time has elapsed, a process is performed to move the opening / closing member (240) to a third position (G3) where the third gap (W3) between the support roller (220) and the opening / closing member (240) has a value greater than the head width of the blood collection tube (C).

[0114] In this case, the third gap (W3) between the support roller (220) and the opening / closing member (240) is formed to be larger than the head width (H1) of the blood collection tube (C), so that the blood collection tube (C) can be discharged through the discharge space (241).

[0115] Here, the head width of the blood collection tube (C) may refer to the outer diameter of the head of the blood collection tube (C), and the body width of the blood collection tube (C) may refer to the outer diameter of the body of the blood collection tube (C).

[0116] Through the above-described blood collection tube discharge process, the body of the blood collection tube (C) is prevented from shaking while being discharged into the discharge space (241), thereby allowing the body of the blood collection tube (C) to move in a vertical direction toward the discharge port (312), thereby preventing the problem described above.

[0117] Referring to FIGS. 11 to 13, according to another embodiment of the present invention, the blood collection tube feeding unit (200) may further include a blood collection tube delivery unit (300) that delivers the blood collection tube (C) supplied to the blood collection tube feeding unit (200) toward the direction control unit (400).

[0118] This blood collection tube delivery unit (300) may include a delivery unit body (310) and a pair of second detection sensors (320).

[0119] The main body (310) of the transmission unit may be formed to have a width that becomes narrower from the top to the bottom, and the upper side with a longer width may be connected to the blood collection tube feeding part (200) and the lower side with a narrow width may be connected to the direction control part (400). For example, the main body (310) of the transmission unit may be formed in an approximately inverse triangular shape, but it should be noted that the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0120] A moving space (311) through which a blood collection tube (C) moves may be provided inside the main body (310) of the delivery unit, and an outlet (312) through which the blood collection tube (C) is discharged may be provided at the lower end of the moving space (311).

[0121] At this time, the main body (310) of the delivery unit may be provided to be inclined from the blood collection tube feeding unit (200) toward the direction control unit (400) so that the blood collection tube (C) can slide toward the discharge port (312) within the moving space (311). That is, since the main body (310) of the delivery unit is provided to be inclined, a separate configuration for moving the blood collection tube (C) within the blood collection tube delivery unit (300) is not required.

[0122] A pair of second detection sensors (320) may be provided on each side of the main body (310) of the delivery unit, and detect whether the blood collection tube (C) is positioned toward the discharge port (312) within the main body (310).

[0123] More specifically, a pair of second detection sensors (320) detect whether the lower body of the blood collection tube (C) is positioned toward the discharge port (312) within the delivery unit main body (310). When the pair of second detection sensors (320) detect the blood collection tube (C), the blood collection tube (C) is discharged through the discharge space (241).

[0124] A pair of second detection sensors (320) can be implemented as image sensors, light sensors, laser sensors, etc., and can be changed and applied in any way as long as they are implemented to detect the direction of the blood collection tube (C) within the transmission unit body (310).

[0125] A blood collection tube transporter according to another embodiment of the present invention can transport a blood collection tube toward a blood collection tube transporter (not shown). This blood collection tube transporter can include a blood collection tube launcher (not shown).

[0126] Although not shown, the blood collection tube launcher can launch the blood collection tube (C) into the blood collection tube transport tube by means of a blood collection tube launcher provided within the blood collection tube launcher. For example, the blood collection tube launcher can be implemented as a pneumatic or hydraulic launching device, but it should be noted that the invention is not limited thereto.

[0127] Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 15 to 17, the operation process of a blood collection tube transport device according to another embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0128] FIG. 15 is a drawing schematically showing a process of supplying a blood collection tube from a lift according to another embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 16 is a drawing schematically showing a state in which a blood collection tube is supplied to a blood collection tube feeding unit according to another embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 17 is a drawing schematically showing a state in which a blood collection tube is transferred to a blood collection tube delivery unit according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0129] Referring to FIGS. 15 and 16, a blood collection tube (C) vertically moved through a lift (100) is supplied to a support roller (220) of a blood collection tube feeding unit (200). At this time, when a state in which the blood collection tube (C) is located on the support roller is detected by a pair of first detection sensors (270), the blood collection tube (C) located on the support roller (220) is rotated by the support roller (220) that is rotated by the operation of the support roller drive unit (230), and a label scanner (260) scans the patient's information labeled on the blood collection tube (C) that is being rotated to determine whether the blood collection tube (C) is labeled with accurate patient information.

[0130] Next, referring to FIG. 17 together with FIG. 14, a normally labeled blood collection tube (C) is discharged through a discharge space (241) formed by the movement of the opening / closing member (240).

[0131] At this time, the process of discharging the blood collection tube (C) is as follows: first, when the blood collection tube (C) is detected by a pair of first detection sensors (270), as illustrated in (a) of FIG. 14, a first process of moving the opening / closing member (240) to a first position (G1) in which the first gap (W1) between the support roller (220) and the opening / closing member (240) has a value greater than the body width (H2) of the blood collection tube (C) and smaller than the head width (H1) of the blood collection tube (C) is performed. In this case, the body of the blood collection tube (C) is discharged through the discharge space (241) while the head of the blood collection tube (C) is caught between the support roller (220) and the opening / closing member (240).

[0132] Next, as illustrated in (b) of FIG. 14, after a predetermined first time has elapsed, a second process is performed in which the opening / closing member (240) is moved to a second position (G2) in which the second gap (W2) between the support roller (220) and the opening / closing member (240) has the same value as the body width of the blood collection tube (C). In this process, the opening / closing member (240) moves to a position in which the gap between the support roller (220) and the opening / closing member (240) becomes substantially the same as the width (outer diameter) of the body of the blood collection tube (C), and may be stopped in this state (i.e., in a state in which the second gap (W2) between the support roller (220) and the opening / closing member (240) and the outer diameter of the blood collection tube (C) are the same), or may be moved further in the direction in which the gap becomes narrower to a position in which pressure is applied to the body of the blood collection tube (C).

[0133] Meanwhile, since both the support roller (220) and the opening / closing member (240) are made of elastic material, even if the second gap (W2) between the support roller (220) and the opening / closing member (240) moves in a direction that narrows, the shape of the elastic material portion of the support roller (220) and the opening / closing member (240) can be deformed to apply pressure to the body of the blood collection tube (C). This can prevent the body of the blood collection tube (C) from shaking in the discharge space (241).

[0134] Finally, as illustrated in (c) of FIG. 14, after a predetermined second time has elapsed, a process is performed to move the opening / closing member (240) to a third position (G3) in which the third gap (W3) between the support roller (220) and the opening / closing member (240) has a value greater than the head width of the blood collection tube (C). In this case, the third gap (W3) between the support roller (220) and the opening / closing member (240) is formed to be greater than the head width (H1) of the blood collection tube (C), so that the blood collection tube (C) can be discharged through the discharge space (241).

[0135] Meanwhile, when a pair of second detection sensors (320) detect whether the lower part of the body of the blood collection tube (C) is positioned toward the discharge port (312) within the main body (310) of the delivery unit, the blood collection tube (C) is discharged through the discharge space (241).

[0136] Next, the blood collection tube (C) discharged into the discharge space (241) of the blood collection tube feeding unit (200) is transferred to the blood collection tube transfer unit through the blood collection tube delivery unit (300). At this time, the blood collection tube (C) slides within the delivery unit main body (310) and is discharged from the lower part of the blood collection tube (C) body through the discharge port (312).

[0137] Next, although not shown, the blood collection tube (C) discharged through the outlet (312) is moved into the blood collection tube launcher, which is a component of the blood collection tube transporter, and is fired into the blood collection tube transporter by a blood collection tube launcher (not shown) within the blood collection tube launcher.

[0138] The blood collection tube (C) fired toward the blood collection tube transport tube is transported to the final destination through the blood collection tube transport tube.

[0139] As described above, the blood collection tube transport device according to the present invention uses first air pressure to move the blood collection tube from a first position to a second position within the main body, and then uses second air pressure to fire the blood collection tube moved to the second position into the blood collection tube transport tube, thereby enabling the blood collection tube to be quickly moved to a required position.

[0140] In addition, the blood collection tube discharged through the blood collection tube feeding section can be prevented from shaking and supplied vertically toward the blood collection tube transport section.

[0141] In addition, since the structure of the blood collection tube transport device is manufactured compactly, it can be installed in various structures without any surrounding restrictions within various installation spaces.

[0142] Since various modifications can be made to the constructions and methods described and illustrated herein without departing from the scope of the present invention, all matters contained in the above detailed description or illustrated in the accompanying drawings are illustrative and not intended to limit the present invention. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention should not be limited by the above-described exemplary embodiments, but should be determined solely in accordance with the following claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. In the blood collection tube transport device, A blood collection tube transport unit that transports a blood collection tube using pneumatic pressure; A lift for moving the blood collection tube in a vertical direction; and It includes a blood collection tube feeding unit that supplies the blood collection tube moved through the above lift to the blood collection tube transport unit, The above blood collection tube transport unit is, A direction control unit that rotates the blood collection tube supplied from the blood collection tube feeding unit to align it in a certain direction; A blood collection tube launcher that launches the blood collection tube supplied from the direction control unit into a blood collection tube transport tube connected to the blood collection tube transport unit by air pressure; and It includes a blood collection tube position adjustment unit that vertically pushes the blood collection tube aligned in a certain direction in the above direction adjustment unit and moves it to a first position within the blood collection tube launch unit; The above blood collection tube launcher is, A main body including a cylindrical portion coaxial with the blood collection tube, a support member for maintaining the blood collection tube at the first position, a first air pressure providing hole formed on a lower side, and a second air pressure providing hole formed on an upper side; A first air pressure providing unit connected to the first air pressure providing hole and providing first air pressure within the main body to move the blood collection tube located at the first location to a second location within the main body; and It includes a second air pressure providing unit that is connected to the second air pressure providing hole and provides a second air pressure greater than the first air pressure within the main body to fire the blood collection tube moved to the second position toward the blood collection tube transport tube; A blood collection tube transport device, wherein the first air pressure is set to a level that can transport the blood collection tube from the first position to the second position.

2. In paragraph 1, A blood collection tube transport device, wherein the second air pressure is set to a level that can transport the blood collection tube from the second location to the final destination.

3. In paragraph 1, The above direction control unit, A control unit body having a first connection hole connected to the blood collection tube feeding unit and a second connection hole connected to the blood collection tube launching unit; A rotating member provided rotatably within the main body of the above-mentioned control unit, and having a direction changing path through which the blood collection tube supplied through the blood collection tube feeding unit enters for direction changing; A rotary member driving unit that provides a driving force to rotate the rotary member; and A blood collection tube transport device, comprising a contact sensor that detects the state in which the blood collection tube has entered the direction change path.

4. In paragraph 3, A blood collection tube transport device characterized in that when the contact sensor detects the blood collection tube, the rotating member rotates so that the head of the blood collection tube entering the direction change path faces downward and the body of the blood collection tube faces the blood collection tube launching unit.

5. In paragraph 3, The above blood collection tube position adjustment unit is, A position adjusting member that enters the direction changing path to push up the blood collection tube located in the direction changing path and move it to the first position; and A blood collection tube transport device, comprising a position adjustment member driving unit that provides a driving force for moving the position adjustment member.

6. In paragraph 1, The above support member is, A first elastic frame and a second elastic frame provided on each side of the inner wall of the main body; A first elastic frame fixing projection and a second elastic frame fixing projection that are respectively protruded and formed at the lower end of the first elastic frame and the lower end of the second elastic frame and fixed to the inner wall of the main body; and A blood collection tube transport device comprising: a first elastic support protrusion and a second elastic support protrusion formed to narrow the width between the upper end of the first elastic frame and the upper end of the second elastic frame, and then formed to widen the width again to form an elastic passage hole through which the blood collection tube passes; and supporting the blood collection tube passing through the elastic passage hole at the first position.

7. In paragraph 1, The above blood collection tube launcher is, A blood collection tube transport device further comprising a first lever portion for opening and closing the first air pressure providing hole and a second lever portion for opening and closing the second air pressure providing hole.

8. In paragraph 7, The above first lever part, A first lever having a first hinge projection protruding from each of the two ends on one side to selectively open and close the first pneumatic supply hole, and rotatably coupled to the inner wall of the main body; and A first rotation limiting member is coupled to a first slit hole formed on the inner wall of the main body to limit the rotation range of the first lever, and a first passage hole through which the blood collection tube passes is provided in the central portion; A blood collection tube transport device, wherein the first lever is rotated by the first air pressure provided through the first air pressure providing hole to close the first passage hole.

9. In paragraph 8, The above second lever part, A second lever having a second hinge projection formed protrudingly at each end of one side to selectively open and close the second pneumatic supply hole, and rotatably coupled to the inner wall of the main body; and A second rotation limiting member is coupled to a second slit hole formed on the inner wall of the main body to limit the rotation range of the second lever, and a second passage hole through which the blood collection tube passes is provided in the central portion; A blood collection tube transport device in which the second lever is rotated by the second air pressure provided through the second air pressure providing hole to close the second passage hole.

10. In the blood collection tube transport device, A blood collection tube transport unit that transports blood collection tubes; A lift for moving the blood collection tube in a vertical direction; and It includes a blood collection tube feeding unit that supplies the blood collection tube moved through the above lift to the blood collection tube transport unit, The above blood collection tube feeding part A support frame coupled to one side of the above lift; A support roller positioned on the support frame and rotatably supporting the blood collection tube; A support roller driving unit that provides driving force for rotating the above support roller; A pair of first detection sensors provided on each side of the support frame and detecting the state in which the blood collection tube is positioned on the support roller; An opening / closing member provided on one longitudinal side of the support roller and moving in a direction toward the support roller and a direction away from the support roller to form a discharge space through which the blood collection tube is discharged; A switching member driving unit that provides a driving force for moving the switching member; and A processor that controls the operation of the opening / closing member driving unit to move the opening / closing member; The processor controls the operation of the opening / closing member driving unit so that, when the presence of the blood collection tube is detected by the pair of first detection sensors, the opening / closing member is moved to a first position where a first gap between the support roller and the opening / closing member has a value greater than the body width of the blood collection tube and less than the head width of the blood collection tube, and after a first predetermined time has elapsed, the opening / closing member is moved to a second position where a second gap between the support roller and the opening / closing member has a value equal to the body width of the blood collection tube, and after a second predetermined time has elapsed, the opening / closing member is moved to a third position where a third gap between the support roller and the opening / closing member has a value greater than the head width of the blood collection tube, thereby allowing the blood collection tube to be discharged through the discharge space.

11. In paragraph 10, A blood collection tube transport device, characterized in that when the opening / closing member is moved to the second position, the opening / closing member moves toward the support roller and applies pressure to the body of the blood collection tube.

12. In paragraph 10, A blood collection tube transport device, wherein the blood collection tube feeding unit is located on the upper portion of the support frame and further includes a label scanner that scans label information labeled on the blood collection tube that is supported and rotated by the support roller.

13. In paragraph 10, The above blood collection tube feeding unit further includes a blood collection tube transfer unit that transfers the blood collection tube discharged into the discharge space to the blood collection tube transfer unit. The above blood collection tube delivery unit is, A main body of a delivery unit formed to become narrower from the top to the bottom, a moving space for moving the blood collection tube is provided inside, and an outlet for discharging the blood collection tube is provided at the lower part of the moving space; and A blood collection tube transport device, comprising a pair of second detection sensors provided on each side of the main body of the transfer unit and detecting whether the blood collection tube is positioned toward the discharge port within the main body of the transfer unit.

14. In paragraph 13, The above transmission unit body is, A blood collection tube transport device provided at an angle from the blood collection tube feeding unit toward the blood collection tube transport unit so that the blood collection tube slides toward the outlet within the delivery unit body.

Images