Inspection device

Abstract

The present disclosure achieves downsizing of an inspection device including a lifting device 10. This present invention includes: a plurality of installation parts (installation parts 103A to 103H) for installing articles; a lifting mechanism 106 configured to move the articles in the vertical direction; and a horizontal movement mechanism (an X-direction movement mechanism 107 and a Y-direction movement mechanism 108) configured to move the lifting mechanism in the horizontal direction.

Description

Inspection Equipment

[0001] The present invention relates to an inspection device having a lifting device for moving an article.

[0002] US Patent Publication No. 2017 / 0269114 (Patent Document 1) discloses a technique related to a lifting device that moves only in the up and down direction.

[0003] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2010-216905 (Patent Document 2) discloses a technique for inserting a member that serves as a liquid outlet into the opening of a sample bottle using a lifting mechanism that moves horizontally.

[0004] US Patent Publication No. 2017 / 0269114 JP 2010-216905 A

[0005] In a testing device, for example, items such as reagent containers, tip racks, and waste boxes that are arranged horizontally may be transported at different times by a lifting device.

[0006] One possible solution is to provide a dedicated lifting device for each type of article. However, this would increase the number of lifting devices installed in the inspection device, which would result in an increase in the size of the inspection device.

[0007] In this regard, in order to reduce the size of the inspection device, it is conceivable to use a single transport arm to lift and lower various types of items. However, depending on the size and number of items, a large lifting stroke of the transport arm may be required. This may result in an increase in the size of the inspection device in order to ensure the required lifting stroke.

[0008] Therefore, in order to realize a miniaturization of an inspection device equipped with a lifting device, it is desired to devise a configuration for the lifting device.

[0009] Other objects and novel features will become apparent from the description of this specification and the accompanying drawings.

[0010] In one embodiment, the inspection device includes a plurality of placement sections for placing items, a lifting mechanism configured to move the items in an up-and-down direction, and a horizontal movement mechanism configured to move the lifting mechanism in a horizontal direction.

[0011] According to one embodiment, it is possible to realize a miniaturized inspection device equipped with a lifting device.

[0012] 1 is a diagram illustrating the external configuration of an inspection device; 2 is a diagram illustrating the internal configuration of a lifting device; 3 is a diagram illustrating a state in which a drawer is pulled out in the X direction; 4 (a) to (d) are diagrams illustrating the operation of the lifting mechanism; 5 (a) is a diagram illustrating an example in which the installation unit has a "wall structure," and 6 (b) is a diagram illustrating an example in which the installation unit has a "basket structure." 7 is a plan view showing rails provided in the lifting mechanism; 8 (a) to (d) are diagrams illustrating that the first slide rail, the second slide rail, and the third slide rail are each configured to be extendable and retractable; 9 (a) to (e) are diagrams illustrating an example of the lifting operation of a waste box; 10 (a) is a diagram illustrating an example in which a first waste box is used, 11 (b) is a diagram illustrating an example in which a second waste box is used, and 12 (c) is a diagram illustrating another example in which the first waste box is used; 13 (a) to (d) are diagrams illustrating cooperative control of a holding unit and a lifting mechanism; 14 (a) and (b) are diagrams illustrating a first operation of the lifting device; (a) and (b) are diagrams illustrating the second operation of the lifting device. (a) is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the lifting device, which is the basic structure, and (b) is a diagram illustrating a state in which the first drawer is pulled out while the reagent container is being lifted and lowered in the second drawer. (a) to (c) are diagrams illustrating the ability to reduce the amount of drawer pull-out. (a) to (c) are diagrams illustrating the ability to overcome side effects caused by reducing the amount of pull-out. (a) and (b) are diagrams illustrating the basic operation of the lifting device including a fixing mechanism. (a) to (c) are diagrams illustrating the configuration and operation of the fixing mechanism. (a) to (c) are diagrams illustrating an example in which a fixing mechanism having one release rod is used. (a) to (d) are diagrams illustrating an example in which a fixing mechanism having a first release rod and a second release rod is used.

[0013] In all the drawings for explaining the embodiments, the same components are generally designated by the same reference numerals, and repeated explanations thereof will be omitted. In addition, hatching may be used even in plan views to make the drawings easier to understand.

[0014] The testing device in this embodiment is equipped with a lifting device. The testing device is assumed to be a genetic testing device or an automatic analyzer. For example, the genetic testing device is a testing device for testing genes. In the genetic testing device, the lifting device is used to transport items such as tip racks and waste boxes.

[0015] An automated analyzer is, for example, a testing device that measures the concentration of a specific component contained in a sample based on the absorbance of a reaction solution between the sample and a reagent. Sample containers and reagent containers are used in automated analyzers. The sample containers are containers that contain samples such as blood or urine. The reagent containers are containers that contain reagents to be reacted with the sample. A lifting device is used to transport these sample containers, reagent containers, and other items.

[0016] However, the inspection device equipped with the lifting device is not limited to this. For example, the inspection device of this embodiment can be widely applied to inspection devices that require the transportation of consumables and the like required for inspection. That is, the inspection device of this embodiment can be widely applied to a wide variety of inspection devices that require the transportation of items such as inspection objects, consumables, and waste.

[0017] The inspection device according to this embodiment will be described below.

[0018] 1. External Configuration of Inspection Apparatus> FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the external configuration of an inspection apparatus 1. As shown in FIG.

[0019] 1, the testing device 1 has an indicator light 2, a door 3, a window 3a, an operation panel 4, a sample input door 5, an indicator 5a, a switch 6, and drawers 101A and 101B. In this specification, when there is no need to particularly distinguish between the drawers 101A and 101B, they will simply be referred to as drawers 101.

[0020] The testing device 1 is a genetic testing device that automatically performs, for example, nucleic acid extraction and purification, amplification of a target sequence by PCR (polymerase chain reaction), detection, and analysis. A genetic testing device is a type of automatic analyzer.

[0021] The testing device 1 is used by placing containers of samples and reagents on an internal tray covered by a door 3 having a window 3a and a drawer 101. The indicator light 2 has the function of indicating the operating status of the testing device 1. The door 3 has a window 3a. The interior of the testing device 1 can be seen through this window 3a. The operation panel 4 has operation buttons and a display unit. The operation buttons have the function of inputting information about reagents or samples, or as buttons to be used when the testing device 1 is in operation. The display unit displays information about the reagents or samples, analysis results, etc. The sample input door 5 has the function of loading samples into the testing device 1. Furthermore, the indicator 5a has the function of indicating the status of sample processing.

[0022] The drawer 101 is a "drawer" that stores items such as reagent containers, tip racks, or waste boxes. The switch 6 functions as a trigger for opening and closing the drawer 101. The external appearance of the testing device 1 is configured as described above.

[0023] 2. Internal Configuration of Drawer Portion of Inspection Apparatus (Elevating Device) FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the internal configuration of the elevating device 10. As shown in FIG.

[0024] 2 , the lifting device 10 is provided in, for example, an inspection device. The lifting device 10 includes a drawer 101A, a drawer 101B, an inspection table 102, installation units 103A, 103B, 103C, 103D, 103E, 103F, 103G, and 103H, a base 104, slide rails 105, a lifting mechanism 106, an X-direction movement mechanism 107, a Y-direction movement mechanism 108, and a control unit 200.

[0025] An inspection board surface 102 is provided on the upper section of the drawer 101. A plurality of holes are formed in the inspection board surface 102. For example, in FIG. 2 , holes 102a, 102b, 102c, 102d, 102e, 102f, 102g, and 102h are formed in the inspection board surface 102. For example, reagent containers are placed in the holes 102a, 102b, 102e, and 102f, respectively.

[0026] Specifically, although not shown, hooks are provided on the inner surfaces of each of holes 102a, 102b, 102e, and 102f. Reagent containers are fixed to these hooks. This allows reagent containers to be placed inside each of holes 102a, 102b, 102e, and 102f.

[0027] A pedestal 104A is disposed in the middle section of the drawer 101A. Slide rails 105A are provided on the pedestal 104A. The slide rails 105A allow the drawer 101A, including the pedestal 104A, to be pulled out in the X direction. A plurality of installation units are disposed on the pedestal 104A. For example, as shown in FIG. 2 , installation units 103A, 103B, 103C, and 103D are disposed on the pedestal 104A. Installation units 103A, 103B, 103C, and 103D are configured to accommodate items such as reagent containers, tip racks, and waste boxes. These installation units also function as lifting and lowering assist members when lifting and lowering items.

[0028] A plurality of holes are formed in the base 104A. Each of the plurality of holes is formed to allow an article to pass through. For example, as shown in FIG. 2, the base 104A has holes 104a, 104b, 104c, and 104d formed therein.

[0029] A pedestal 104B is disposed in the middle section of the drawer 101B. Slide rails 105B are provided on the pedestal 104B. The slide rails 105B allow the drawer 101B, including the pedestal 104B, to be pulled out in the X direction. A plurality of installation units are disposed on the pedestal 104B. For example, as shown in FIG. 2 , installation units 103E, 103F, 103G, and 103H are disposed on the pedestal 104B. Installation units 103E, 103F, 103G, and 103H are configured to accommodate items such as reagent containers, tip racks, and waste boxes. These installation units also function as lifting and lowering assist members when lifting and lowering items.

[0030] Base 104B has a plurality of holes formed therein. Each of the plurality of holes is formed to allow articles to pass through. For example, as shown in FIG. 2 , base 104B has holes 104e, 104f, 104g, and 104h formed therein. Note that in FIG. 2 , hole 104g appears to point to a waste box installed in installation section 103G for convenience, but in reality, it is a hole hidden by the waste box. Similarly, in FIG. 2 , hole 104h appears to point to a waste box installed in installation section 103H for convenience, but in reality, it is a hole hidden by the waste box.

[0031] An elevating mechanism 106 is disposed in the lower section of the drawer 101A and the drawer 101B. The elevating mechanism 106 is configured to move items placed in the placement sections 103A, 103B, 103C, 103D, 103E, 103F, 103G, and 103H in the vertical direction (Z direction). An X-direction movement mechanism 107 and a Y-direction movement mechanism 108 are also disposed in the lower sections of the drawer 101A and the drawer 101B. The X-direction movement mechanism 107 is configured to move the elevating mechanism 106 in the X direction (first direction). The Y-direction movement mechanism 108 is configured to move the elevating mechanism 106 in the Y direction (second direction intersecting the first direction). The combination of the X-direction movement mechanism 107 and the Y-direction movement mechanism 108 causes the elevating mechanism 106 to move horizontally. That is, the X-direction movement mechanism 107 and the Y-direction movement mechanism 108 are horizontal movement mechanisms configured to move the lift mechanism 106 in the horizontal direction.

[0032] For example, the horizontal direction includes the X direction and the Y direction that intersects with the X direction. In other words, the horizontal direction is a direction within the XY plane. The lifting mechanism 106 is configured to move in both the X direction and the Y direction.

[0033] In this specification, the term "horizontal direction" is used to represent any direction included in the XY plane. Therefore, the lifting mechanism 106 is not limited to being configured to move in the X and Y directions. For example, the lifting mechanism 106 may be configured to move in one direction in the XY plane, or may be configured to move along a curve including a circumference in the XY plane.

[0034] The lifting mechanism 106 includes a first actuator having a first power source and a first mechanical component connected to the first power source. The first actuator is configured to move an article in the up and down direction based on a combination of the first power source and the first mechanical component.

[0035] 2, the first actuator is composed of a motor 106a as a first power source, and a roller 106b and a belt 106c as first mechanical components. The first actuator moves in the up and down direction by a combination of the motor 106a, the roller 106b, and the belt 106c. In other words, the rotational movement of the motor 106a is converted into linear movement in the up and down direction by the roller 106b and the belt 106c.

[0036] The X-direction movement mechanism 107 includes a second actuator. The second actuator has a second power source and a second mechanical component connected to the second power source. The second actuator is configured to move the lifting mechanism 106 in the X-direction based on a combination of the second power source and the second mechanical component.

[0037] 2, the second actuator is composed of a motor 107a as a second power source and a roller 107b and a belt 107c as second mechanical components. The second actuator performs linear movement in the X direction by a combination of the motor 107a, roller 107b, and belt 107c. That is, the rotational movement of the motor 107a is converted into linear movement in the X direction by the roller 107b and belt 107c.

[0038] The Y-direction movement mechanism 108 includes a third actuator. The third actuator has a third power source and a third mechanical component connected to the third power source. The third actuator is configured to move the lifting mechanism 106 in the Y direction based on a combination of the third power source and the third mechanical component.

[0039] 2, the third actuator is composed of a motor 108a as a third power source and a roller 108b and a belt 108c as third mechanical components. The third actuator performs linear movement in the Y direction by a combination of the motor 108a, the roller 108b, and the belt 108c. That is, the rotational movement of the motor 108a is converted into linear movement in the Y direction by the roller 108b and the belt 108c.

[0040] As shown in Fig. 2, an inspection unit including an inspection table surface 102 is disposed above the multiple installation units. Also, a holding unit 600 for holding an object is provided above the multiple installation units. The holding unit 600 is configured to be movable by a conveying mechanism. For example, the holding unit 600 is configured to be movable in the vertical direction (Z direction) and horizontal directions (X direction and Y direction) by the conveying mechanism while holding an object.

[0041] The control unit 200 is configured to control, for example, the operation of the lifting mechanism 106. Specifically, the control unit 200 is configured to move the lifting mechanism 106 in the vertical direction. This allows the lifting mechanism 106 to move an article placed on the placement unit in the vertical direction. The control unit 200 is also configured to control, for example, the operation of the X-direction movement mechanism 107 and the Y-direction movement mechanism 108. Specifically, the control unit 200 is configured to move the lifting mechanism 106 in the X direction by the X-direction movement mechanism 107. The control unit 200 is also configured to move the lifting mechanism 106 in the Y direction by the Y-direction movement mechanism 108. This allows the lifting mechanism 106 to move in the X direction or the Y direction. In this way, the lifting mechanism 106 in this embodiment not only moves an article in the Z direction, but also allows the lifting mechanism 106 itself to move in the horizontal direction.

[0042] As described above, the basic structure of the inspection device 1 in this embodiment is a structure in which one lifting mechanism 106 is provided for a plurality of drawers and a plurality of pedestals. However, the structure of the inspection device 1 is not limited to the basic structure described above. For example, the inspection device 1 may adopt a structure in which one lifting mechanism 106 is provided for one drawer.

[0043] In the following description, in addition to the basic structure described above, there may also be a description of a structure in which one lifting mechanism 106 is provided for one drawer.

[0044] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the state in which the drawer 101 is pulled out in the X direction. As shown in FIG. 3, the slide rails 105 slide, causing the drawer 101 to be pulled out. At this time, the base 104, which is located in the middle of the drawer 101, is also pulled out along with the drawer 101. As a result, the multiple installation units (installation unit 103A, installation unit 103B, installation unit 103C, and installation unit 103D) located on the base 104 are also pulled out. In this state, for example, as shown in FIG. 3, multiple stacked reagent containers 300 can be installed in installation unit 103A. Also, for example, as shown in FIG. 3, a waste box 400 can be installed in installation unit 103C. The lifting device 10 is configured as described above.

[0045] <3. Overview of the Lifting Mechanism> <<3.1 Basic Operation>> In this embodiment, the lifting mechanism 106 is configured to move an article in the vertical direction, and also configured to move below a plurality of installation sections in the horizontal direction.

[0046] This feature will be explained below with reference to FIG.

[0047] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the operation of the lifting mechanism 106.

[0048] 4(a), a plurality of stacked reagent containers 300A are installed in installation section 103A. A plurality of stacked reagent containers 300B are installed in installation section 103B. A waste box 400A is installed in installation section 103C. A waste box 400B is installed in installation section 103D. In this state, the lifting mechanism 106 is disposed directly below installation section 103A. The lifting mechanism 106 then moves the plurality of stacked reagent containers 300A installed in installation section 103A upward.

[0049] Next, the transition is made from FIG. 4(a) to FIG. 4(b).

[0050] That is, as shown in Fig. 4(b), the Y-direction movement mechanism 108 moves the lifting mechanism 106 from a position directly below the installation unit 103A shown in Fig. 4(a) to a position directly below the installation unit 103B shown in Fig. 4(b). As a result, the lifting mechanism 106 is positioned directly below the installation unit 103B. The lifting mechanism 106 then moves the stacked multiple reagent containers 300B installed in the installation unit 103B upward.

[0051] Next, the state transitions from FIG. 4(b) to FIG. 4(c).

[0052] That is, as shown in Fig. 4(c), first, the Y-direction movement mechanism 108 moves the lifting mechanism 106 from the position directly below the installation unit 103B shown in Fig. 4(b) to the position directly below the installation unit 103A. Then, the X-direction movement mechanism 107 moves the lifting mechanism 106 from the position directly below the installation unit 103A to the position directly below the installation unit 103C shown in Fig. 4(c). As a result, the lifting mechanism 106 is positioned directly below the installation unit 103C. Then, the lifting mechanism 106 moves the waste box 400A installed on the installation unit 103C upward.

[0053] Next, the state transitions from FIG. 4(c) to FIG. 4(d).

[0054] That is, as shown in Fig. 4(d), the Y-direction movement mechanism 108 moves the lifting mechanism 106 from a position directly below the installation unit 103C shown in Fig. 4(c) to a position directly below the installation unit 103D shown in Fig. 4(d). As a result, the lifting mechanism 106 is positioned directly below the installation unit 103D. The lifting mechanism 106 then moves the waste box 400B installed on the installation unit 103D upward. In this manner, the lifting device 10 in the first embodiment can be operated.

[0055] As described above, the lifting device 10 is configured to move items such as reagent containers or waste boxes upward (Z direction). At this time, the lifting device 10 is configured to move horizontally (X direction and Y direction) directly below the installation units 103A, 103B, 103C, and 103D.

[0056] Therefore, according to this embodiment, it is not necessary to provide a dedicated lifting device for each type of article. In other words, in this embodiment, a single lifting device 10 can be used to vertically move multiple types of articles placed on placement sections (placement section 103A, placement section 103B, placement section 103C, and placement section 103D) in different locations.

[0057] That is, in this embodiment, a structural innovation is made to realize a single lifting device 10 that has both the function of moving an article in the vertical direction and the function of moving it horizontally under a plurality of installation sections as the configuration of the single lifting device 10. As a result, according to this embodiment, it is possible to realize the lifting operation of a plurality of types of articles installed on installation sections in different locations by using a single lifting device 10, without having to provide a dedicated lifting device for each type of article.

[0058] This allows a reduction in the number of lifting devices provided in the inspection device. Therefore, the inspection device equipped with the lifting device 10 can be made smaller. Furthermore, the number of parts constituting the inspection device can be reduced. As a result, the lifting device 10 in the first embodiment not only allows the inspection device to be made smaller, but also reduces the manufacturing cost of the inspection device.

[0059] <<3.2 Modified Structure of Installation Section>> For example, the structure of installation section 103C for installing waste box 400A is not particularly limited as long as waste box 400A can be attached and detached and can be raised and lowered.

[0060] 5A and 5B are diagrams showing examples of the structure of the installation unit 103C. For example, Fig. 5A shows an example in which the installation unit 103C has a "wall structure." On the other hand, Fig. 5B shows an example in which the installation unit 103C has a "cage structure."

[0061] 5(a) and 5(b), the waste box 400A can be attached and detached, and can be raised and lowered. Therefore, the structure of the installation section 103C may be a "wall structure" or a "basket structure," etc.

[0062] <<3.3 Guide Mechanism for Vertical Lifting>> The lifting mechanism 106 has a rail that guides the vertical movement of an article together with the first actuator described above. The lifting mechanism 106 achieves the vertical movement of an article by combining the first actuator and the rail. The rail is configured with a connected structure of multiple auxiliary rails extending in the vertical direction (Z direction). Each of the multiple auxiliary rails has an extendable structure. This makes it possible to reduce the height dimension of the lifting mechanism. Below, it will be explained how the height dimension of the lifting mechanism can be reduced.

[0063] FIG. 6 is a plan view showing the rails provided in the lifting mechanism.

[0064] 6 , the lifting mechanism has a rail 1000 that guides the vertical movement of an article. Rail 1000 is composed of slide rail (auxiliary rail) 1001, slide rail (auxiliary rail) 1002, and slide rail (auxiliary rail) 1003. That is, rail 1000 is composed of a connected structure of multiple slide rails. Slide rails 1001, 1002, and 1003 each have an extendable structure. That is, slide rails 1001, 1002, and 1003 are each configured to extend and retract by operating a first actuator.

[0065] 7(a) to 7(d) are diagrams showing that slide rail 1001, slide rail 1002, and slide rail 1003 each have an extendable and retractable structure. FIG. 7(a) shows a state in which slide rail 1001, slide rail 1002, and slide rail 1003 are all folded. FIG. 7(b) shows slide rail 1001 extending in the Z direction, and folded slide rail 1002 and folded slide rail 1003. FIG. 7(c) shows slide rail 1001 extending in the Z direction, slide rail 1002 extending in the Z direction, and folded slide rail 1003. FIG. 7(d) shows slide rail 1001 extending in the Z direction, slide rail 1002 extending in the Z direction, and slide rail 1003 extending in the Z direction.

[0066] From the above, it can be seen that each of slide rails 1001, 1002, and 1003 has an extendable structure, which makes it possible to reduce the height of the lifting mechanism according to this embodiment.

[0067] <4. Lifting and Lowering of Waste Box> <<4.1 Basic Operation>> For example, the item installed in the installation unit is a waste box. It is assumed that waste materials such as waste liquid, pipette tips, or used reagent containers are stored in the waste box. Based on this assumption, an example of the lifting and lowering operation of the waste box using the lifting mechanism 106 will be described below.

[0068] In Fig. 8(a), the lifting mechanism 106 is disposed below the base 104. The installation section 103C is disposed on the base 104. The disposal box 400A is disposed on the installation section 103C. The inspection board surface 102 is disposed above the disposal box 400A. The inspection board surface 102 has a hole 102c formed therein. The pipette tip 501 is disposed above the hole 102c. The pipette tip 501 is filled with waste liquid 502.

[0069] Next, the state transitions from FIG. 8(a) to FIG. 8(b).

[0070] 8B, the control unit of the inspection device controls the holding unit 600 (pipettor) to lower the pipette tip 501 while holding the pipette tip 501. For example, the control unit controls the lowering operation of the holding unit 600 so that the bottom of the pipette tip 501 enters the hole 102c of the inspection board surface 102.

[0071] Meanwhile, the control unit controls the lifting mechanism 106 to move up, whereby the waste box 400A moves up to the position of the hole 102c, thereby shortening the distance between the pipette tip 501 and the waste box 400A.

[0072] Next, the state transitions from Fig. 8(b) to Fig. 8(c). That is, as shown in Fig. 8(c), waste liquid 502 is discharged from pipette tip 501 and placed in waste box 400A.

[0073] Thereafter, a transition occurs from FIG. 8(c) to FIG. 8(d).

[0074] 8(d), the waste liquid 502 that has entered the waste box 400A falls freely, and as a result, the waste liquid 502 accumulates at the bottom of the waste box 400A.

[0075] Then, the state transitions from Fig. 8(d) to Fig. 8(e). That is, as shown in Fig. 5(e), the control unit controls the lifting mechanism 106 to lower. As a result, the waste box 400A containing the waste liquid 502 is placed on the pedestal 104.

[0076] In this manner, for example, as shown in FIG. 8B, the control unit controls the lifting mechanism 106 to raise the waste box 400A. This shortens the distance between the pipette tip 501 and the waste box 400A. In this shortened state, the waste liquid 502 is discharged from the pipette tip 501 and placed in the waste box 400A. Therefore, when the waste liquid 502 falls freely, the scattering path of the waste liquid 502 is surrounded by the inner wall of the waste box 400A. This prevents the waste liquid 502 from scattering.

[0077] <<4.2 Types of Waste>> The waste stored in the waste box is not limited to waste liquid. For example, the waste stored in the waste box may be pipette tips, reagent containers, or the like.

[0078] The above can be summarized as follows. Specifically, the lifting device 10 includes a control unit that controls the lifting mechanism 106 and a holding unit 600 configured to hold waste. Here, the item is a waste box that stores waste. The control unit also controls the lifting mechanism 106 to raise the waste box 400A so as to reduce the vertical distance between the waste held by the holding unit 600 and the waste box 400A, and then releases the waste from the holding unit 600, causing the waste to fall into the waste box 400A. Examples of waste include waste liquid, pipette tips, and reagent containers.

[0079] <<4.3 Operation Control According to Type of Waste>> The following describes operation control for lifting a waste box to an appropriate position, even when, for example, the size of the waste box installed in the installation unit or the drop start position of the waste held in the holding unit is different. Specifically, when the control unit controls the lifting mechanism 106, the control unit changes the lift completion position of the waste box based on the height information of the waste box or the drop start position information of the waste. This allows the waste box to be placed at an appropriate lift completion position depending on the size of the waste box and the drop start position of the waste. Therefore, operation control according to the type of waste is possible regardless of the size of the waste box and the drop start position of the waste. As a result, this embodiment can provide an inspection device with a high degree of flexibility.

[0080] FIG. 9A is a diagram illustrating an example in which a waste box 450A is used.

[0081] 9A, the control unit of the testing device controls the holding unit 600 to lower the pipette tip 501 while holding the pipette tip 501. For example, the control unit controls the lowering operation of the holding unit 600 so that the bottom of the pipette tip 501 enters the inside of the hole 102c in the testing board surface 102. Meanwhile, the control unit controls the lifting mechanism 106 to lift. As a result, the waste box 450A is lifted to the position of the hole 102c. Here, for example, the lifting distance of the waste box 450A by the lifting mechanism 106 is "Z1."

[0082] 9B is a diagram illustrating an example in which a waste box 450B is used. The size of the waste box 450B is smaller than the size of the waste box 450A. In particular, the height of the waste box 450B is smaller than the height of the waste box 450A.

[0083] 9B, the control unit included in the testing device controls the holding unit 600 to lower the pipette tip 501 while holding the pipette tip 501. For example, the control unit controls the lowering operation of the holding unit 600 so that the bottom of the pipette tip 501 enters the inside of the hole 102c in the testing board surface 102. Meanwhile, the control unit controls the lifting mechanism 106 to lift the lifting mechanism 106. As a result, the waste box 450B is lifted to the position of the hole 102c. Here, for example, the lifting distance of the waste box 450B by the lifting mechanism 106 is "Z2." Because the height of the waste box 450B is smaller than the height of the waste box 450A, "Z2" is greater than "Z1."

[0084] Next, FIG. 9C is a diagram illustrating another example in which the waste box 450A is used.

[0085] 9(c), the holding unit 600 is lowered while holding the reagent container 503 under the control of a control unit provided in the testing device. For example, the control unit controls the lowering operation of the lifting mechanism 106 so that the lowered position of the reagent container 503 is lower than the position of the hole 102c in the testing board surface 102. In other words, the drop start position of the reagent container 503 shown in FIG. 9(c) is different from the drop start position of the pipette tip 501 shown in each of FIGS. 9(a) and 9(b). Specifically, the drop start position of the reagent container 503 is lower than the drop start position of the pipette tip 501.

[0086] Meanwhile, the control unit controls the lifting mechanism 106 to move up, thereby lifting the waste box 450A to the drop start position of the reagent container 503. As a result, the distance between the reagent container 503 and the waste box 450A is shortened.

[0087] Here, for example, the distance by which the lifting mechanism 106 lifts the waste box 450A is "Z3." Although the same waste box 450A is used in Figures 9(a) and 9(c), the position at which the reagent container 503 starts to fall is lower than the position at which the pipette tip 501 starts to fall. Therefore, for example, the lifting distance "Z2" of the waste box 450A shown in Figure 9(c) is greater than the lifting distance "Z1" of the waste box 450A shown in Figure 9(a).

[0088] In this way, in this embodiment, even if the size of the waste bin placed in the installation unit or the starting position of the waste held in the holding unit is different, the waste bin can be raised to an appropriate position. Specifically, the control unit changes the position at which the waste bin completes its ascent based on the height information of the waste bin or the starting position information of the waste. This allows the waste bin to be raised to an appropriate position even if the size of the waste bin or the starting position of the waste held in the holding unit is different.

[0089] For example, the inspection device has a memory unit that stores height information for waste bins according to the type of waste bin and drop start position information for the type of waste. The control unit is configured to determine the lift completion position of the waste bin based on the height information for the waste bin or the drop start position information for the waste stored in the memory unit. As a result, the control unit controls the lifting mechanism 106 so that the waste bin reaches the determined lift completion position.

[0090] According to this embodiment, the waste box can be positioned at an appropriate completed lift position depending on the size of the waste box and the starting position of the waste drop. Therefore, operation control according to the type of waste can be performed regardless of the size of the waste box and the starting position of the waste drop.

[0091] <<4.4 Coordinated Control of Holding Unit and Lifting Mechanism>> An example of shortening the time required to process waste will be described below. Specifically, an example will be described in which the operation of lifting the waste box is performed while the operation of moving the waste to the drop start position is performed. Here, coordinated control of the holding unit and the lifting mechanism is performed such that the operation of moving the waste to the drop start position and the operation of lifting the waste box are performed simultaneously in parallel. As a result, according to this embodiment, the time required to process waste can be shortened compared to when the operation of lifting the waste box is performed after the operation of moving the waste to the drop start position is completed.

[0092] 10(a) to 10(d) are diagrams illustrating cooperative control of the holder and the lifting mechanism. First, the control unit controls the horizontal movement of the lifting mechanism 106. As a result, as shown in FIG. 10(a), the lifting mechanism 106 is positioned directly below the installation unit 103A. Then, the control unit controls the lifting operation of the lifting mechanism 106. As a result, the lifting operation of the lifting mechanism 106 lifts the reagent container 503 installed in the installation unit 103A.

[0093] Next, the state transitions from FIG. 10(a) to FIG. 10(b).

[0094] That is, the control unit controls the horizontal movement of the lifting mechanism 106. As a result, as shown in FIG. 10(b), the lifting mechanism 106 is positioned directly below the installation unit 103C. At the same time, the control unit controls the operation of the holder 600. As a result, as shown in FIG. 10(b), the holder 600 holds the raised reagent container 503. In this way, the horizontal movement operation of the lifting mechanism 106 and the holding operation of the reagent container 503 by the holder 600 are performed simultaneously in parallel.

[0095] Next, the state transitions from FIG. 10(b) to FIG. 10(c).

[0096] That is, the control unit controls the vertical movement of the lifting mechanism 106. As a result, as shown in FIG. 10(c), the lifting mechanism 106 performs a lifting operation at a position directly below the installation unit 103C. As a result, the waste box 400A rises. At the same time, the control unit controls the operation of the holder 600. As a result, as shown in FIG. 10(c), the holder 600 raises the reagent container 503 that it holds. In this way, the vertical movement of the lifting mechanism 106 and the lifting operation of the reagent container 503 by the holder 600 are performed simultaneously in parallel.

[0097] Next, the state transitions from FIG. 10(c) to FIG. 10(d).

[0098] That is, the control unit controls the horizontal and downward movements of the holder 600. As a result, as shown in FIG. 10(d), the holder 600 moves the reagent container 503 it holds in the horizontal and downward directions. As a result, the reagent container 503 arrives at the drop start position. The holder 600 then releases the reagent container 503. As a result, the reagent container 503 falls freely and is placed at the bottom of the waste box 400A that has moved upward.

[0099] As described above, according to this embodiment, the operation of moving the waste (reagent container 503) to the drop start position and the operation of raising the waste box 400A can be performed simultaneously. That is, in this embodiment, the control unit causes the lifting mechanism 106 to complete the operation of raising the waste box 400A by the time the operation of moving the reagent container 503 held in the holder 600 to the drop start position is completed. Therefore, according to this embodiment, the time required to process the reagent container 503 can be reduced compared to when the operation of raising the waste box 400A is performed after the operation of moving the reagent container 503 to the drop start position is completed. As a result of performing multiple operations in parallel rather than serially, this embodiment achieves the significant advantage of reducing the time required for multiple operations.

[0100] <5. Lifting and Lowering of Tip Racks> <<5.1 Configuration of Inspection Panel and Installation Unit>> In this embodiment, it is assumed that the lifting device has a control unit that controls the lifting mechanism. It is also assumed that the lifting device includes an installation unit that can install multiple items stacked on top of each other. Based on these assumptions, in this embodiment, the control unit calculates the number of items that can be replenished in the installation unit based on the travel distance when the lifting mechanism lifts the multiple items stacked and installed in the installation unit to the lift completion position. That is, the inspection device in this embodiment has a replenishment number calculation unit that calculates the number of items that can be replenished in the installation unit based on the travel distance when the lifting mechanism lifts the multiple items stacked and installed in the installation unit to the lift completion position.

[0101] According to this embodiment, the number of items to be replenished in the installation section can be determined based on the lifting operation of the lifting mechanism. As a result, according to this embodiment, the number of items to be replenished can be determined without actually pulling out the drawer and checking the number of items installed in the installation section. In other words, by adopting this embodiment, the task of checking the number of items installed in the installation section is no longer necessary. As a result, the burden on the worker can be reduced.

[0102] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing the configuration of a lifting device 10C according to this embodiment.

[0103] 11, the lifting device 10C includes an inspection table 102, a placement unit 103A, a lifting mechanism 106, and a control unit 200.

[0104] A hole 102a is formed in the inspection board surface 102. A pair of latches 123A and 123B are provided on the side of this hole 102a. The latches 123A and 123B are configured to allow an article to be hung from them. Figure 11 shows, for example, a state in which a tip rack 150D is hung in the hole 102a by the latches 123A and 123B.

[0105] An article detection sensor 180 that detects the presence or absence of the tip rack 150D is provided on the side of the hole 102a. Furthermore, a limit sensor 190 is provided on the side of the hole 102a at a position lower than the article detection sensor 180. Each of the article detection sensor 180 and the limit sensor 190 is composed of, for example, a photoelectric sensor.

[0106] A plurality of tip racks are stacked and arranged in the installation section 103A. For example, Fig. 11 shows that tip rack 150A, tip rack 150B, and tip rack 150C are stacked and arranged in the installation section 103A.

[0107] A pair of latches 121A and 121B are provided on the side of the installation section 103A. The latches 121A and 121B are configured to allow an article to be hung from them. Figure 11 shows, for example, a state in which a tip rack 150B is hanging within the installation section 103A by the latches 121A and 121B.

[0108] A pair of latches 122A and 122B are provided on the side of the installation section 103A. The latches 122A and 122B are configured to allow an article to be hung from them. Figure 11 shows, for example, a state in which a tip rack 150C is hanging within the installation section 103A by the latches 122A and 122B.

[0109] The control unit 200 is configured to control the lifting operation of the lifting mechanism 106. The control unit 200 also has a replenishment number calculation unit 201. The replenishment number calculation unit 201 is configured to calculate the number of replenishment tip racks that can be replenished in the installation unit 103A based on the travel distance when the lifting mechanism 106 lifts the plurality of tip racks stacked and installed in the installation unit 103A to the lift completion position.

[0110] The lifting device 10C of this embodiment is configured as described above.

[0111] 12(a) and 12(b) are diagrams illustrating the first operation of the lifting device 10C. The first operation is an operation performed when no tip rack is placed in the hole 102a. The absence of a tip rack in the hole 102a is detected by the item detection sensor 180. That is, when the item detection sensor 180 detects that no tip rack is placed in the hole 102a, the lifting device 10C performs the following first operation. Note that the item detection sensor 180 only needs to be provided to perform the first operation.

[0112] As shown in FIGS. 12( a) and 12(b), the control unit controls the lifting mechanism 106 to lift the tip racks 150A, 150B, and 150C stacked and installed in the installation unit 103A toward the holes 102a in the inspection board surface 102. The control unit then controls the lifting mechanism 106 to stop the lifting of the tip racks 150A, 150B, and 150C stacked and installed in the installation unit 103A at the lift completion position where the passage of the topmost item (tip rack 150C) is detected by the item detection sensor 180. This places the topmost item (tip rack 150C) inside the holes 102a. At this time, the replenishment number calculation unit calculates the number of replenishment tip racks that can be replenished in the installation unit 103A based on the travel distance R1 when the tip racks are lifted to the lift completion position. 12(a) and 12(b), the topmost item (tip rack 150C) is placed inside hole 102a, and as a result, it can be seen that tip rack 150A and tip rack 150B remain in placement section 103A based on travel distance R1. As a result, if the number of tip racks that can be placed in placement section 103A is three, the replenishment number calculation section calculates, based on travel distance R1, that the number of replenishment tip racks that can be replenished in placement section 103A is "1." In this manner, the first operation is performed.

[0113] 13(a) and 13(b) are diagrams illustrating the second operation of the lifting device 10C. The second operation is an operation performed when a tip rack 150D is placed in the hole 102a. The presence of the tip rack 150D in the hole 102a is detected by the item detection sensor 180. That is, when the item detection sensor 180 detects that the tip rack 150D is placed in the hole 102a, the lifting device 10C performs the following second operation. Note that, in order to perform the second operation, a limit sensor 190 is required in addition to the item detection sensor 180. In other words, if only the first operation is performed, the limit sensor 190 is not required. In contrast, if both the first operation and the second operation are performed, the item detection sensor 180 and the limit sensor 190 are required.

[0114] As shown in FIGS. 13( a) and 13(b), the control unit controls the lifting mechanism 106 to lift the tip racks 150A, 150B, and 150C stacked and installed in the installation unit 103A toward the holes 102a in the inspection board surface 102. The control unit then controls the lifting mechanism 106 to stop the lifting of the tip racks 150A, 150B, and 150C stacked and installed in the installation unit 103A at the lift completion position where the passage of the topmost item (tip rack 150C) is detected by the limit sensor 190. This positions the topmost item (tip rack 150C) directly below tip rack 150D. At this time, the replenishment number calculation unit calculates the number of tip racks that can be replenished in the installation unit 103A based on the travel distance R2 when the tip racks are lifted to the lift completion position. 13(a) and 13(b), it can be seen that tip rack 150A, tip rack 150B, and tip rack 150C remain in installation section 103A based on travel distance R2. As a result, if the number of tip racks that can be installed in installation section 103A is three, the replenishment number calculation section calculates, based on travel distance R2, that the number of replenishment tip racks that can be replenished in installation section 103A is "0." In this manner, the second operation is performed.

[0115] According to this embodiment, the number of tip racks to be replenished in the installation section 103A can be determined based on the lifting and lowering operation of the lifting mechanism 106. Therefore, according to this embodiment, the number of tip racks to be replenished can be determined without actually pulling out the drawer and checking the number of tip racks installed in the installation section 103A. In other words, by adopting this embodiment, the task of checking the number of tip racks installed in the installation section 103A is no longer necessary. As a result, the burden on the worker can be reduced.

[0116] 6. Drawer Locking Mechanism As described above, the basic structure of the inspection device 1 in this embodiment is a structure in which one lifting mechanism 106 is provided for multiple drawers and multiple pedestals. However, the structure of the inspection device 1 is not limited to the basic structure described above. For example, the inspection device 1 may adopt a structure in which one lifting mechanism 106 is provided for one drawer.

[0117] A structure in which one lifting mechanism 106 is provided for multiple drawers and multiple pedestals is called a basic structure. On the other hand, a structure in which one lifting mechanism 106 is provided for one drawer is called a modified structure. Here, the basic structure has advantages over the modified structure. The advantages obtained by adopting the basic structure are described below.

[0118] For example, when an item is being raised or lowered in one of the multiple storage sections, it may be desired to replenish or remove an item in another of the multiple storage sections. In this case, with the modified structure, if an item is being raised or lowered in one storage section, the drawer cannot be pulled out even if the user wishes to replenish or remove an item in another storage section.

[0119] In this regard, the basic structure has the following configuration.

[0120] The basic structure is based on a lifting device having multiple installation sections. The following configuration is also assumed: the multiple installation sections include a first installation section and a second installation section. A first item is installed in the first installation section. Meanwhile, a second item is installed in the second installation section. Here, in the basic structure, the multiple installation sections are configured so that the second item can be replenished or removed from the second installation section while the first item is being raised by the lifting mechanism in the first installation section.

[0121] That is, the basic structure is premised on the fact that the lifting device has a first drawer in which a first installation section of the multiple installation sections is arranged, and a second drawer in which a second installation section of the multiple installation sections is arranged, and the basic structure is configured so that the first drawer and the second drawer can be pulled out independently and separately.

[0122] As a result, when the basic structure is adopted, even if a lifting operation is being performed on a first item placed in a first installation section within a first drawer, a second item can be replenished or removed from the second installation section in a second drawer that can be pulled out independently of the first drawer.

[0123] FIG. 14A is a diagram showing the basic structure of the lifting device 10A.

[0124] 14A, the lifting device 10A includes a drawer 101A, a drawer 101B, an inspection board 102, a base 104A, a base 104B, a lifting mechanism 106, an X-direction moving mechanism 107, and a Y-direction moving mechanism 108.

[0125] Drawers 101A and 101B are configured to be able to be pulled out independently of each other. Drawer 101A has a base 104A. Mounting sections 103A, 103B, 103C, and 103D are arranged on base 104A. Mounting sections 103A, 103B, 103C, and 103D are each configured to allow items to be placed thereon. For example, in FIG. 14( a), a waste box 400A is installed in mounting section 103C.

[0126] Drawer 101B has a base 104B. Mounting units 103E, 103F, 103G, and 103H are arranged on base 104B. Mounting units 103E, 103F, 103G, and 103H are each configured to allow items to be placed thereon. In FIG. 14( a), a reagent container 503 is placed in each of mounting units 103E and 103F. Also, in FIG. 14( a), a waste box is placed in each of mounting units 103G and 103H.

[0127] FIG. 14B shows a state in which the drawer 101A is pulled out while the reagent container 503 is being raised and lowered in the drawer 101B.

[0128] 14(b), the control unit controls the lifting mechanism 106. As a result, a lifting operation is performed on the reagent container 503 placed in the installation section 103E in the drawer 101B. In contrast, no lifting operation is performed on the item in the installation section in the drawer 101A. Therefore, the drawer 101A can be pulled out.

[0129] 14B shows the state in which the drawer 101A is pulled out. In this state, for example, the reagent container 503 installed in the installation section 103A in the drawer 101A is removed, and the waste box 400A is installed in the installation section 103C in the drawer 101A.

[0130] In this way, even if the reagent container 503 installed in the installation section 103E in the drawer 101B is being raised or lowered, the drawer 101A is provided so that it can be pulled out independently of the drawer 101B. Therefore, in the drawer 101A, the reagent container 503 can be replenished in the installation section 103A or the waste box 400A can be removed in the installation section 103C.

[0131] As shown in FIG. 14( b), the lifting device 10A is provided with a locking mechanism 110. The locking mechanism 110 has the function of preventing the addition or removal of other articles while the lifting mechanism 106 is lifting an article. For example, the locking mechanism 110 is composed of a convex portion 110A provided on the drawer 101A and a concave portion 110B provided on the inspection table surface 102. The drawer 101A is locked by inserting the convex portion 110A into the concave portion 110B. This locking mechanism 110 can prevent the drawer 101A from being accidentally pulled out while the article is being lifted or lowered. A lamp or the like that lights up when the drawer 101A can be pulled out may also be provided.

[0132] <7. Operation Mechanism of Slider Installed on Pedestal Inside Drawer> <<7.1 Operation Control for Drawer>> This embodiment has a configuration for reducing the amount of drawer pullout. For example, to reduce the amount of drawer pullout, it is desirable to provide an opening in the front of the inspection panel surface. However, when installing equipment in the front of the inspection panel surface, it is difficult to provide an opening in the front of the inspection panel surface. Therefore, this embodiment realizes a configuration that can reduce the amount of drawer pullout even when there is a constraint that makes it difficult to provide an opening in the front of the inspection panel surface.

[0133] 15(a) to 15(c) are diagrams illustrating how the amount of drawer pullout can be reduced. In Fig. 15(a), the lifting device 10B includes a drawer 101, an inspection table 102, a base 104, a lifting mechanism 106, and a slide unit 700.

[0134] The drawer 101 is configured to be retractable, for example, in the X direction in FIG. 15A . An opening OP is formed in the inspection board surface 102. A slide unit 700 is disposed on a base 104. The slide unit 700, the lifting mechanism 106, and the horizontal movement mechanism (the X-direction movement mechanism 107 and the Y-direction movement mechanism 108 in FIG. 2 ) are collectively referred to as the “slide mechanism.” That is, in this embodiment, the slide unit 700 is held by the lifting mechanism 106 and configured to be movable horizontally together with the lifting mechanism 106 by the horizontal movement mechanism. The lifting mechanism 106 is configured to be capable of being raised and lowered by a control unit. The horizontal movement mechanism is configured to be movable horizontally by a control unit. Multiple installation units, namely installation unit 750A, installation unit 750B, and installation unit 750C, are disposed on the slide unit 700. Items such as reagent containers, tip racks, and waste boxes are installed in each of the multiple installation units.

[0135] 15(a) to 15(c) are an example of multiple installation sections, and assume that three installation sections 750A, 750B, and 750C are arranged on slide section 700. Also, in FIGS. 15(a) to 15(c), items 800A, 800B, and 800C are shown installed on the three installation sections 750A, 750B, and 750C, respectively. These items 800A, 800B, and 800C are installed on installation sections 750A, 750B, and 750C that are arranged on slide section 700.

[0136] Next, as shown in FIG. 15( b), the control unit controls the lifting mechanism 106 and the horizontal movement mechanism. Specifically, the control unit controls the horizontal movement mechanism to move the lifting mechanism 106 in the horizontal direction, and then the control unit raises the lifting mechanism 106. As a result, the lifting mechanism 106 comes into contact with the slide unit 700. In this state, the control unit controls the lifting mechanism 106 to move in the X direction. As a result, the slide unit 700, which is in contact with the lifting mechanism 106, moves in the X direction together with the lifting mechanism 106. The slide unit 700 then comes into contact with the drawer 101. At this time, as shown in FIG. 15( b), the items 800A, 800B, and 800C placed on the slide unit 700 also move in the X direction.

[0137] 15(c), the drawer 101 is pulled out. That is, the drawer 101 is pulled out in the X direction. This allows the items 800A, 800B, and 800C placed on the sliding section 700 to be removed.

[0138] Here, for example, if the sliding portion 700 shown in FIG. 15(b) is not moved in the X direction, i.e., if a direct transition occurs from FIG. 15(a) to FIG. 15(c), the item 800C is in the position shown by the dashed line in FIG. 15(c). Therefore, the item 800C cannot be removed unless the sliding portion 700 is moved in the X direction. In other words, if the sliding portion 700 is not moved in the X direction, the item 800C cannot be removed unless the amount of drawer 101 pulled out is greater than the amount of drawer 101 pulled out shown in FIG. 15(c). In other words, by moving the sliding portion 700 in the X direction shown in FIG. 15(b), the item 800C can be removed even if the amount of drawer 101 pulled out is reduced. Thus, the configuration of the drawer 101 having a sliding mechanism that moves multiple installation sections horizontally has the technical significance of reducing the amount of drawer 101 that can be pulled out. As a result, this embodiment is useful in that it can reduce the amount of drawer pull-out even when there is a constraint that it is difficult to provide an opening in the front part of the inspection panel surface 102.

[0139] <<7.2 Operation Control for Lifting and Lowering>> As described with reference to FIGS. 15(a) to 15(c), by providing a slide mechanism in the drawer 101, the amount of pull-out of the drawer 101 from which articles can be taken out can be reduced.

[0140] However, if the sliding section 700 on which the article is placed is moved closer to the door of the drawer 101 in order to reduce the amount of drawer 101 that can be pulled out, it may become impossible to lift the article using the lifting mechanism 106. This will be explained with reference to FIG.

[0141] 16(a) shows a state in which the sliding portion 700 is in contact with the door of the drawer 101. In this state, for example, the inspection table surface 102 is present above the item 800A. Therefore, the inspection table surface 102 becomes an obstacle, preventing the item 800A from being lifted.

[0142] In this regard, by using a slide mechanism, the article 800A can be lifted, as will be described below with reference to Figures 16(b) and 16(c).

[0143] As shown in FIG. 16( b), the control unit controls the lifting mechanism 106 and the horizontal movement mechanism. Specifically, the control unit controls the horizontal movement mechanism to move the lifting mechanism 106 in the horizontal direction, and then the control unit raises the lifting mechanism 106. As a result, the lifting mechanism 106 comes into contact with the slide unit 700. In this state, the control unit controls the lifting mechanism 106 to move in the X direction. As a result, the slide unit 700, which is in contact with the lifting mechanism 106, also moves in the X direction. Furthermore, the items 800A, 800B, and 800C placed on the slide unit 700 also move in the X direction. At this time, by adjusting the amount of movement of the slide unit 700 in the X direction, for example, as shown in FIG. 16( b), the position of the item 800A changes from a position below the inspection table surface 102 to a position below the opening OP formed in the inspection table surface 102. In this state, as shown in FIG. 16(c), the control unit controls the operation of the horizontal movement mechanism so that the lifting mechanism 106 reaches directly below the article 800A. The control unit then controls the lifting operation of the lifting mechanism 106. As a result, the article 800A is lifted by the lifting mechanism 106. At this time, above the rising article 800A, there is an opening OP, not the inspection table surface 102 which would be an obstacle. Therefore, the lifting operation of the article 800A is possible. In this way, by using the slide mechanism, the amount of drawer 101 that can be pulled out can be reduced, and the problem of the article being unable to be lifted due to the reduced amount of drawer 101 can also be overcome.

[0144] As described above, this embodiment can reduce the amount of drawer 101 that can be pulled out without causing the side effect of being unable to lift articles.

[0145] <8. Fixing Mechanism for Slide Unit Installed on Pedestal Inside Drawer> <<8.1 Necessity of Fixing Mechanism>> In this embodiment, the drawer 101 has the slide unit 700. It is desirable that the slide unit 700 be fixed when not moving horizontally. This is because, if unexpected vibrations or the like are applied to the inspection device, the position of the slide unit 700 may unintentionally shift if the slide unit 700 is not fixed. In other words, if the slide unit 700 is not fixed, the position of the slide unit 700 becomes unstable. Furthermore, shifting the position of the slide unit 700 means that the position of an item placed on the slide unit 700 will also shift. In this case, there is a risk of interfering with the lifting mechanism 106's lifting operation of the item. This is because if the position of the item is unstable, it becomes difficult to horizontally move the lifting mechanism 106 so that the position of the item reaches a position directly below the item. Therefore, a fixing mechanism for fixing the slide unit 700 is necessary.

[0146] Here, in this embodiment, a fixing mechanism is configured such that the sliding portion 700 can be switched between fixed and unlocked states by the lifting and lowering operation of the lifting mechanism 106. This fixing mechanism is extremely useful in that the sliding portion 700 can be switched between fixed and unlocked states by the lifting and lowering operation of the lifting mechanism 106. This is because there is no need to provide a new mechanism for switching between fixed and unlocked states of the sliding portion 700.

[0147] If the sliding portion 700 can be locked and unlocked by the lifting mechanism 106, whose main purpose is to lift and lower the article, it is possible to prevent the inspection device from becoming larger due to the addition of a new mechanism. Furthermore, it is also possible to prevent an increase in the number of parts that would accompany the addition of a new mechanism. As a result, realizing a locking mechanism that can switch between locking and unlocking the sliding portion 700 by the lifting and lowering operation of the lifting mechanism 106 contributes to reducing the manufacturing costs of the inspection device.

[0148] 8.2 Basic Operation Figures 17(a) and 17(b) are diagrams explaining the basic operation of the fixing mechanism included in the lifting device. Each of Figures 17(a) to 17(b) shows a top view, a side view, and a bottom view. Each of the top view, side view, and bottom view shows a schematic configuration of the drawer 101 including the base 104 and the fixing mechanism 900, and is illustrated so that the relative positional relationship between the base 104 and the inspection panel surface 102 can be seen.

[0149] 17(a) and 17(b), an item A is placed on the placement section 950A. An item B is placed on the placement section 950B. An item C is placed on the placement section 950C. An item D is placed on the placement section 950D.

[0150] First, FIG. 17( a) is a diagram showing the state in which the fixing mechanism 900 is fixed by the hole HL1. In this case, as shown in the side view, items A, B, C, and D are positioned close to the door of the drawer 101. Therefore, even if the drawer 101 is pulled out a small distance, items A, B, C, and D can be removed. Furthermore, when items A, B, C, and D are in these positions, as shown in the top view, item A is positioned directly below opening OP2 formed in the inspection table surface 102. Furthermore, item C is positioned directly below opening OP4 formed in the inspection table surface 102. Therefore, each of items A and C can be lifted by the lifting mechanism without being obstructed by the inspection table surface 102.

[0151] On the other hand, items B and D are not located directly below any of openings OP1 to OP4 formed in inspection board surface 102. Therefore, item B and item D cannot be lifted by the lifting mechanism due to the obstruction of inspection board surface 102. In other words, when fixing mechanism 900 is in the position fixed by hole HL1, items A and C can be lifted by the lifting mechanism, but items B and D cannot be lifted by the lifting mechanism.

[0152] In this regard, in this embodiment, the position of the fixing mechanism 900 can be changed so that each of the items B and D can be lifted by the lifting mechanism without the inspection table surface 102 becoming an obstacle.

[0153] 17(b) is a diagram showing a state in which the fixing mechanism 900 is fixed by hole HL2. When objects A, B, C, and D are in this position, as shown in the top view, object A is located directly below opening OP1 formed in the inspection table surface 102. Object B is located directly below opening OP2 formed in the inspection table surface 102. Object C is located directly below opening OP3 formed in the inspection table surface 102. Object D is located directly below opening OP4 formed in the inspection table surface 102. Therefore, not only objects A and C, but also objects B and D can be lifted by the lifting mechanism without being obstructed by the inspection table surface 102.

[0154] As described above, according to this embodiment, by changing the position at which the fixing mechanism 900 is fixed, the articles A, B, C, and D can be raised by the lifting mechanism.

[0155] Here, it is considered that if the planar size of the opening is increased, the lifting mechanism can lift items A, B, C, and D without changing the fixing position of the fixing mechanism 900. However, increasing the planar size of the opening reduces the space above the inspection table surface 102. This means that it becomes difficult to effectively utilize the space above the inspection table surface 102 as available space that can be used to downsize the inspection device. In other words, increasing the planar size of the opening makes it difficult to downsize the inspection device. Therefore, in this embodiment, the planar size of the opening is reduced to increase the available space that can be used to downsize the inspection device. In this case, unless the fixing position of the fixing mechanism 900 is changed, items A, B, C, and D cannot be lifted by the lifting mechanism. Therefore, in this embodiment, the fixing position of the fixing mechanism 900 can be changed so that items A, B, C, and D can be lifted by the lifting mechanism while reducing the planar size of the opening. In other words, the technical significance of making the fixing position of the fixing mechanism 900 changeable is that it allows for the lifting and lowering of multiple items while reducing the planar size of the opening in order to make the inspection device smaller.

[0156] <<8.3 Details of Operation Control>> This embodiment is not only applicable to a configuration in which two holes HL1 and HL2 are formed in the base 104, but also applicable to a configuration in which three holes HL1, HL2, and HL3 are formed in the base 104. Details of operation control will be described below using an example in which three holes HL1, HL2, and HL3 are formed in the base 104.

[0157] 18(a) to 18(c) are diagrams illustrating the configuration and operation of the fixing mechanism 900. FIG.

[0158] 18( a), the "slide mechanism" has a lifting mechanism 106, a slide portion 700, and a fixing mechanism 900. The slide portion 700 is disposed on a base 104. A hole is formed in the slide portion 700. The base 104 is formed with holes HL1, HL2, and HL3. The fixing mechanism 900 is disposed on the slide portion 700. The fixing mechanism 900 is operated by the lifting mechanism 106.

[0159] The fixing mechanism 900 has a release rod 901A, a release rod 901B, a link mechanism 902, a spring 903, a pin 904, a joint portion 905, a fastener 906, a fastener 907, a link portion 910A, a link portion 910B, a joint portion 911A, and a joint portion 911B.

[0160] The fixing mechanism 900 fixes the slide portion 700 to the base 104 by fitting the pin 904 into the hole in the slide portion 700 and the hole HL2 in the base 104 .

[0161] The joint part 905 is disposed on the slide part 700. The joint part 905 is connected to the link mechanism 902. The connection part between the joint part 905 and the link mechanism 902 serves as a fixed point. The link mechanism 902 is configured to be rotatable around this fixed point as the center of rotation.

[0162] A fastener 906 is attached to the pin 904. This fastener 906 is fixed to the pin 904. In addition, a fastener 907 is attached to the pin 904. This fastener 907 is not fixed to the pin 904. On the other hand, the fastener 907 is fixed to the sliver portion 700. A spring 903 is provided between the fastener 906 and the fastener 907. A pin 904 is inserted into the spring 903. The pin 904 is connected to the link mechanism 902.

[0163] The joint part 911A is disposed on the slide part 700. The joint part 911A is connected to the link part 910A. The connecting part between the joint part 911A and the link part 910A serves as a fixed point. The link part 910A is configured to be rotatable around this fixed point as the center of rotation.

[0164] The joint part 911B is disposed on the slide part 700. The joint part 911B is connected to the link part 910B. The connecting part between the joint part 911B and the link part 910B serves as a fixed point. The link part 910B is configured to be rotatable around this fixed point as the center of rotation.

[0165] One end of link portion 910A is connected to release rod 901A. The other end of link portion 910A is connected to link mechanism 902 and link portion 910B. Meanwhile, one end of link portion 910B is connected to release rod 901B. The other end of link portion 910B is connected to link mechanism 902 and link portion 910A.

[0166] The connection portions of the link mechanism 902, link portion 910A, and link portion 910B employ a structure that provides "play," for example. Specifically, a structure is employed in which circular fixing members are inserted into elongated holes provided in each of the link portions 910A and 910B. This allows "play" to be provided in the connection portions of the link mechanism 902, link portion 910A, and link portion 910B.

[0167] 18(a), release rod 901A or 901B is not raised by lifting mechanism 106. In this case, the force of spring 903 expanding presses fastener 906 downward, and pin 904 fixed to fastener 906 is fitted into hole HL2, and at the same time, link mechanism 902 connected to pin 904 rotates clockwise. In this way, slide section 700 is fixed to base 104.

[0168] 18(b), the release rod 901A is lifted by the lifting mechanism 106. In this case, the link portion 910A connected to the release rod 901A rotates counterclockwise around the joint portion 911A, and the link portion 910B connected to the link portion 910A rotates clockwise around the joint portion 911B. As a result, one end of the link mechanism 902 connected to the link portion 910A and the link portion 910B descends. At this time, by providing "play" in the connection portion between the link mechanism 902, the link portion 910A, and the link portion 910B, the rotation of the link portion 910A and the link portion 910B can facilitate the descending of one end of the link mechanism 902.

[0169] In this way, one end of the link mechanism 902 descends, while the other end of the link mechanism 902, to which the pin 904 is connected, ascends. As a result, the link mechanism 902 rotates counterclockwise around the connection between the joint portion 905 and the link mechanism 902. This causes the pin 904, which is connected to the other end of the link mechanism 902, to ascend. As the pin 904 ascends, the fastener 906 fixed to the pin 904 also ascends. On the other hand, the fastener 907 is not fixed to the pin 904. Therefore, even if the pin 904 ascends, the position of the fastener 907 does not change. As a result, the distance between the fasteners 906 and 907 decreases. This causes the spring 903 to compress. In this way, the pin 904 moves upward. This causes the pin 904 to disengage from the hole HL2 provided in the base 104. This releases the slide portion 700 from the base 104. In this state, for example, as shown in FIG. 18( c), the control unit controls the horizontal movement mechanism to move in the X direction. As a result, the slide unit 700 moves in the X direction. In this manner, the fixing mechanism 900 operates. For example, by lifting the release rod 901A or 901B with the lifting mechanism 106, the engagement of the pin 904 with the hole HL2 of the base 104 is released. In contrast, by not lifting the release rod 901A or 901B with the lifting mechanism 106, the pin 904 is engaged with the hole HL2 of the base 104.

[0170] <<8.4 Effects of the Fixing Mechanism>> The fixing mechanism 900 in this embodiment has multiple release rods. For example, as shown in Figures 18(a) to 18(c), the fixing mechanism 900 has release rod 901A and release rod 901B. Below, we will explain why having multiple release rods is superior to having a single release rod in terms of reducing the size of the inspection device.

[0171] 19(a) to 19(c) are diagrams illustrating an example in which a fixing mechanism 900A having one release rod 901A is used. First, in FIG. 19(a), the release rod 901A is lifted by the lifting mechanism 106. In this case, the pin 904 comes out of the hole HL1 provided in the base 104. In this state, for example, as shown in FIG. 19(b), the lifting mechanism 106 is moved in the X direction while the release rod 901A is still lifted. At this time, the distance that the lifting mechanism 106 moves in the X direction until the pin 904 reaches the hole HL2 in the base 104 is "L1."

[0172] 19(c), for example, the lifting mechanism 106 is moved in the X direction while the release rod 901A is kept lifted. At this time, the distance that the lifting mechanism 106 moves in the X direction until the pin 904 reaches the hole HL3 of the base 104 is 2×"L1". In other words, when one release rod 901A is used, the lifting mechanism 106 needs to move in the X direction by the distance of 2×"L1" in order to move the position of the pin 904 from the position directly above the hole HL1 to the position directly above the hole HL3.

[0173] Next, FIGS. 20( a ) to 20 ( d ) are diagrams illustrating an example of using a fixing mechanism 900 having a release rod 901A and a release rod 901B. First, in FIG. 20( a ), the release rod 901B is lifted by the lifting mechanism 106. In this case, the pin 904 is disengaged from the hole HL1 provided in the base 104. In this state, for example, as shown in FIG. 20( b ), the lifting mechanism 106 is moved in the X direction while the release rod 901B is lifted. At this time, the distance that the lifting mechanism 106 moves in the X direction until the pin 904 reaches the hole HL2 in the base 104 is “L1.” Then, for example, as shown in FIG. 20( c ), the lifting mechanism 106 is moved in the X direction to lift the release rod 901A. In other words, the release rod lifted by the lifting mechanism 106 is changed from the release rod 901B to the release rod 901A. At this time, the distance that the lifting mechanism 106 moves in the X direction is "L1."

[0174] 20(d), for example, the lifting mechanism 106 is moved in the X direction while the release rod 901A is kept lifted. At this time, the distance that the lifting mechanism 106 moves in the X direction until the pin 904 reaches the hole HL3 from the hole HL2 is "L1." In other words, when the release rods 901A and 901B are used, the lifting mechanism 106 only needs to move leftward by the distance "L1" in order to move the position of the pin 904 from the position directly above the hole HL1 to the position directly above the hole HL3.

[0175] From the above, the distance that lifting mechanism 106 must be moved to move pin 904 from the position directly above hole HL1 to the position directly above hole HL3 is shorter when release rods 901A and 901B are provided than when a single release rod 901A is provided. This means that according to this embodiment, which has release rods 901A and 901B, the space that must be secured to move lifting mechanism 106 is smaller. Therefore, according to this embodiment, the inspection device can be made smaller.

[0176] As mentioned above, a configuration with multiple release rods is desirable from the viewpoint of miniaturizing the inspection device. However, a configuration with one release rod may also be adopted. In this case, the advantage is that the configuration of the fixing mechanism can be simplified.

[0177] The invention made by the inventor has been specifically described above based on the embodiments thereof, but it goes without saying that the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments and can be modified in various ways without departing from the spirit of the invention.

[0178] REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 1 Inspection device 2 Indicator light 3 Door 3a Window 4 Operation panel 5 Sample insertion door 5a Indicator 6 Switch 10 Elevating device 10A Elevating device 10B Elevating device 10C Elevating device 101 Drawer 101A Drawer 101B Drawer 102 Inspection panel surface 102a Hole 102b Hole 102c Hole 102d Hole 103A Installation section 103B Installation section 103C Installation section 103D Installation section 103E Installation section 103F Installation section 103G Installation section 103H Installation section 104 Base 104A Base 104B Base 104a Hole 104b Hole 104c Hole 104d Hole 104e Hole 104f Hole 104g Hole 104h Hole 105 Slide rail 105A Slide rail 105B Slide rail 106 Lifting mechanism 106a Motor 106b Roller 106c Belt 107 X-direction movement mechanism 107a Motor 107b Roller 107c Belt 108 Y-direction movement mechanism 108a Motor 108b Roller 108c Belt 110 Locking mechanism 110A Convex portion 110B Concave portion 121A Latch 121B Latch 122A Latch 122B Latch 123A Latch 123B Latch 150A Tip rack 150B Tip rack 150C Tip rack 150D Tip rack 180 Article detection sensor 190 Limit sensor 200 Control unit 201 Refill quantity calculation unit 300 Reagent container 300A Reagent container 300B Reagent container 400 Disposal box 400A Disposal box 400B Disposal box 450A Disposal box 450B Disposal box 501 Pipette tip 502 Waste liquid 503 Reagent container 600 Holding unit 700 Slide unit 750A Installation unit 750B Installation unit 750C Installation unit 800A Item 800B Item 800C Item 900 Fixing mechanism 901A Release rod 901B Release rod 902 Link mechanism 903 Spring 904 Pin 905 Joint unit 906 Fastener 907 Fastener 910A Link unit 910B Link unit911A Joint part 911B Joint part 950A Installation part 950B Installation part 950C Installation part 950D Installation part 1000 Rail 1001 Slide rail 1002 Slide rail 1003 Slide rail A Item B Item C Item D Item HL1 Hole HL2 Hole HL3 Hole OP1 Opening OP2 Opening OP3 Opening OP4 Opening

Claims

1. An inspection device comprising: a plurality of placement sections for placing objects; a lifting mechanism configured to move the objects in an up-and-down direction; and a horizontal movement mechanism configured to move the lifting mechanism in a horizontal direction.

2. An inspection device according to claim 1, wherein the horizontal direction includes a first direction and a second direction intersecting the first direction, and the horizontal movement mechanism is configured to move the lifting mechanism in each of the first direction and the second direction.

3. An inspection device according to claim 2, wherein the lifting mechanism includes a first actuator, the first actuator having a first power source and a first mechanical component connected to the first power source, and configured to move the item in the vertical direction based on the combination of the first power source and the first mechanical component; the horizontal movement mechanism includes a second actuator and a third actuator, the second actuator having a second power source and a second mechanical component connected to the second power source, and configured to move the lifting mechanism in the first direction based on the combination of the second power source and the second mechanical component; and the third actuator having a third power source and a third mechanical component connected to the third power source, and configured to move the lifting mechanism in the second direction based on the combination of the third power source and the third mechanical component.

4. An inspection device according to claim 1, wherein the inspection device has an inspection unit provided above the plurality of installation units.

5. An inspection device according to claim 1, wherein a transport mechanism for transporting the articles is provided above the plurality of installation sections, and the transport mechanism is configured to be movable in the vertical and horizontal directions.

6. An inspection device as described in claim 1, comprising: a control unit that controls the lifting mechanism; and a holding unit configured to hold waste; the item is a waste box that stores the waste; and the control unit causes the lifting mechanism to raise the waste box so as to reduce the vertical distance between the waste held by the holding unit and the waste box, and then releases the holding unit from holding the waste, causing the waste to fall into the waste box.

7. An inspection device according to claim 6, wherein the control unit changes the position at which the waste box has completed rising based on information about the height of the waste box or information about the position at which the waste starts falling.

8. An inspection device according to claim 1, wherein the inspection device has a first drawer and a second drawer that can be pulled out independently of each other, and the plurality of installation sections have a first installation section housed in the first drawer and a second installation section housed in the second drawer.

9. An inspection device as claimed in claim 8, wherein a first part is placed in the first placement section, a second part is placed in the second placement section, and the inspection device is provided with a locking mechanism that prevents the first item from being replenished or removed while the lifting mechanism is lifting the first item.

10. An inspection device according to claim 1, wherein the inspection device has a drawer that houses the plurality of installation sections, and the drawer has a slide mechanism that moves the plurality of installation sections in the horizontal direction.

11. An inspection device according to claim 10, wherein the slide mechanism is composed of a slide section for arranging the plurality of installation sections, the lifting mechanism for holding the slide section on a base, and the horizontal movement mechanism for moving the slide section in the horizontal direction.

12. An inspection device according to claim 11, wherein the slide mechanism has a fixing mechanism that fixes the slide portion to the base, and the fixing mechanism is operated by the lifting mechanism.

13. An inspection device according to claim 12, wherein the fixing mechanism has a pin, and the fixing mechanism fixes the slide part to the base by fitting the pin into a hole in the slide part and a hole in the base.

14. An inspection device as described in claim 13, wherein the fixing mechanism has a release rod for releasing the pin from its engagement with the hole in the base, and a link mechanism to which the release rod and the pin are attached, and the pin is released from its engagement with the hole in the base by lifting the release rod with the lifting mechanism.

15. An inspection device according to claim 14, wherein the pin is fitted into the hole in the base by not lifting the release rod with the lifting mechanism.

16. An inspection device according to claim 14, wherein there are a plurality of said release rods.

17. An inspection device as described in claim 1, wherein the inspection device has a control unit that controls the lifting mechanism, the multiple installation units include a first installation unit that can install multiple items in a stacked manner, and the control unit has a replenishment number calculation unit that calculates the number of items that can be replenished in the first installation unit based on the movement distance when the multiple items stacked and installed in the first installation unit are raised to a raised position by the lifting mechanism.

18. An inspection device as described in claim 17, comprising an inspection board having a hole formed therein for placing the items, and an item detection sensor provided on the side of the hole, wherein the control unit controls the lifting mechanism to raise the plurality of items stacked on the first installation section toward the hole in the inspection board, and then controls the lifting mechanism to stop the lifting of the plurality of items stacked on the first installation section at the lift completion position where the passage of the topmost item is detected by the item detection sensor, thereby placing the topmost item inside the hole, and the replenishment number calculation unit calculates the number of items that can be replenished in the first installation section based on the distance traveled when the items are raised to the lift completion position.

19. An inspection device as described in claim 17, comprising: an inspection board having a hole formed therein for placing the item; an item detection sensor provided on the side of the hole; and a limit sensor provided on the side at a position lower than the item detection sensor; when the item detection sensor detects that a first item has already been placed inside the hole, the control unit controls the lifting mechanism to lift the multiple items stacked and placed in the first installation section toward the hole in the inspection board, and then controls the lifting mechanism to stop the lifting of the multiple items stacked and placed in the first installation section at the lifting completion position where the passage of the topmost item is detected by the limit sensor; and the replenishment number calculation unit calculates the number of items that can be replenished in the first installation section based on the distance traveled when the items are lifted to the lifting completion position.

20. An inspection device according to claim 1, wherein the lifting mechanism has a rail that guides the vertical movement of the item, the rail being composed of a connected structure of multiple auxiliary rails extending vertically, and each of the multiple auxiliary rails being composed of an extendable structure.

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