Specimen installation device and automatic analysis device

Abstract

This specimen installation device for installing a specimen container installation rack where a plurality of specimen containers are to be installed comprises: an insertion port for inserting the specimen container installation rack along an insertion path of the specimen installation device; and a specimen container installation rack reverse insertion prevention mechanism for permitting only insertion from the front end of the specimen container installation rack with respect to the insertion path and blocking insertion from the rear end of the specimen container installation rack. The specimen container installation rack reverse insertion prevention mechanism has a projection member that projects from one side into the insertion path, is retracted from the insertion path by a projection member opening / closing part provided to the front end of the specimen container installation rack when the specimen container installation rack is inserted through the insertion port to the insertion path from the front end of the specimen container installation rack, and blocks insertion of the rear end of the specimen container installation rack into the insertion path when the specimen container installation rack is inserted through the insertion port to the insertion path from the rear end of the specimen container installation rack. This makes it possible for a user to easily load, unload, or otherwise handle a specimen container, and makes it possible to prevent any error in handling of the specimen container by the user.

Description

Sample loading device and automatic analyzer

[0001] The present invention relates to a specimen installation device and an automatic analyzer.

[0002] Automated analyzers automatically perform a process from measuring the target components to outputting the results by reacting biological samples (specimens) such as blood, urine, and cerebrospinal fluid with analytical reagents that specifically react with the target components in the specimen and quantitatively detecting the complexes formed by this reaction. In such automated analyzers, a user loads a specimen container containing the specimen into the automated analyzer via a specimen loading device or the like, and the analytical process is performed using replacement parts such as reagents and dispensing tips within the analyzer. After the analytical process is completed, the user ejects the specimen container from the automated analyzer via the specimen loading device or the like.

[0003] A known prior art technique for loading and unloading sample containers into such an automatic analyzer is described, for example, in Patent Document 1. Patent Document 1 discloses a unit for loading or storing sample containers, which includes a sample rack tray and a sample rack tray installation section on which the sample rack tray is installed, in which the sample rack tray installation section includes claws that operate in a direction to contact a side wall of the sample rack tray, and the sample rack tray includes claw guards that are provided on the side wall of the sample rack tray, and the claw guards are configured to be pushed by the sample racks and move away from the side wall of the sample rack tray.

[0004] International Publication No. 2019 / 003789

[0005] Sample containers are repeatedly loaded into and unloaded from an automated analyzer. Automated analyzers are required to process a wide range of samples, from small quantities that require rapid processing to large quantities, in a stable and short time. Therefore, it is desirable to enable users to easily load and unload sample containers into and from the automated analyzer, and to prevent users from making mistakes when handling sample containers.

[0006] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above, and aims to provide a sample loading device and an automatic analyzer that allow users to easily handle sample containers, such as inserting and removing them, and that prevent users from making mistakes when handling sample containers.

[0007] The present application includes multiple means for solving the above-mentioned problems. One example is a specimen installation device that installs a specimen container installation rack on which a plurality of specimen containers are installed, the device comprising: an insertion port through which the specimen container installation rack is inserted along an insertion path of the specimen installation device; and a specimen container installation rack reverse insertion prevention mechanism that allows only insertion of the specimen container installation rack into the insertion path from the front end and blocks insertion from the rear end of the specimen container installation rack, the specimen container installation rack reverse insertion prevention mechanism having a protruding member that protrudes from the side into the insertion path and is retracted from the insertion path by a protruding member opening / closing part provided at the front end of the specimen container installation rack when the specimen container installation rack is inserted from the front end into the insertion path from the insertion port, and that blocks insertion of the rear end of the specimen container installation rack into the insertion path when the specimen container installation rack is inserted from the insertion port into the insertion path from the rear end.

[0008] According to the present invention, the user can easily handle sample containers, such as inserting and removing them, and the user can be prevented from mishandling the sample containers.

[0009] FIG. 1 is a perspective view schematically illustrating the overall configuration of an automatic analyzer according to the present embodiment; FIG. 2 is a three-view diagram schematically illustrating an example of a sample rack on which sample containers are mounted; FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating different types of sample racks and sample containers; FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating the insertion process of a sample rack into a sample installation section, which is a top view illustrating the case where the sample rack is inserted into the sample installation section in the forward direction; FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating the insertion process of a sample rack into the sample installation section, which is a front view illustrating the case where the sample rack is inserted into the sample installation section in the forward direction; FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating the insertion process of a sample rack into the sample installation section, which is a side cross-sectional view illustrating the case where the sample rack is inserted into the sample installation section in the forward direction; FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating the insertion process of a sample rack into the sample installation section, which is a top view illustrating the case where the sample rack is inserted into the sample installation section in the forward direction and in the reverse direction; FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating the insertion process of a sample rack into the sample installation section, which is a front view illustrating the case where the sample rack is inserted into the sample installation section in the forward direction and in the reverse direction. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the process of inserting a sample rack into a sample installation section, and is a side cross-sectional view showing the case where the sample rack is inserted into the sample installation section in the forward direction and the case where the sample rack is inserted into the sample installation section in the reverse direction. FIG. 2 is a top view showing the process of discharging a sample rack from the sample installation section. FIG. 3 is a front view showing the process of discharging a sample rack from the sample installation section. FIG. 4 is a side cross-sectional view showing the process of discharging a sample rack from the sample installation section. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing the process of inserting a sample rack into the sample installation section, and is a top view showing the case where the sample rack is inserted into the sample installation section in the forward direction and the case where the sample rack is inserted into the sample installation section in the reverse direction. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing the process of inserting a sample rack into the sample installation section, and is a side cross-sectional view showing the case where the sample rack is inserted into the sample installation section in the forward direction and the case where the sample rack is inserted into the sample installation section. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing the process of inserting a sample rack into the sample installation section, and is a side cross-sectional view showing the case where the sample rack is inserted into the sample installation section in the forward direction and the case where the sample rack is inserted into the sample installation section. FIG. 8 is a top view showing the process of discharging a sample rack from the sample installation section. FIG. 9 is a front view showing the process of discharging a sample rack from the sample installation section. It is a side cross-sectional view showing the state of the discharge process of the sample rack from the sample loading section. It is a top view showing the overall configuration of the sample loading section. It is a side cross-sectional view showing the overall configuration of the sample loading section.1 is a top view showing how a sample rack is being loaded into a sample installation section; a side cross-sectional view showing how a sample rack is being loaded into a sample installation section; a top view showing how a sample rack is being transferred to a transfer carrier; a side cross-sectional view showing how a sample rack is being transferred to a transfer carrier; a top view showing how a sample rack is being transferred by a transfer carrier to an information reading position; a side cross-sectional view showing how a sample rack is being transferred by a transfer carrier to an information reading position; a top view showing how information is being read by an information identification mechanism; a side cross-sectional view showing how information is being read by an information identification mechanism; a top view showing how samples are being dispensed from sample containers in a sample rack; a side cross-sectional view showing how samples are being dispensed from sample containers in a sample rack; a top view showing how a sample rack is being transferred to a sample rack installation device; a side cross-sectional view showing how a sample rack is being transferred to a sample rack installation device; a top view showing how a sample rack is being loaded into a sample installation section; a side cross-sectional view showing how a sample rack is being loaded into a sample installation section; a top view showing how a sample rack is being unloaded from a sample installation section. 10A and 10B are side cross-sectional views showing a state in which a sample rack is discharged onto a sample loading section, and FIG. 10C are views showing a sample processing operation and a state of a sample rack detection section.

[0010] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0011] In this embodiment, an automatic analyzer equipped with a specimen container installation device for loading a specimen container installation rack on which specimen containers are installed will be described as an example, but this is not limited to this, and the present invention can also be applied to, for example, a specimen container installation device provided as a unit in an automatic analysis system.

[0012] In the following description, when there are multiple identical components, an alphabet may be added to the end of the reference numeral (number), but the alphabet may be omitted to refer to the multiple components collectively. For example, when there are sample containers 20AR, 20AS, 20B, 20C, 20D, etc., they may be collectively referred to as sample container 20. For simplicity, signal lines and the like whose connection relationships are clear from the description may be omitted from the illustration.

[0013] FIG. 1 is a perspective view schematically showing the overall configuration of an automatic analyzer according to this embodiment.

[0014] In FIG. 1, the automatic analyzer 1 is a testing device that analyzes specific components contained in biological samples (hereinafter referred to as specimens) such as blood or urine provided by patients, and is roughly composed of a display operation unit 2 (display operation device), a control unit 3 (control device), a specimen loading unit 4 (specimen loading device), a replacement storage unit 5, a specimen dispensing unit 6 (specimen dispensing device), an extraction unit 7, a measurement unit 8 (measurement device), a display unit 9, a switch 10, etc.

[0015] The display operation unit 2 is a display operation device that displays and presents information to the user and instructs the testing device to operate based on user input, and is, for example, a touch panel display. The display operation unit 2 includes, as input operation screens that accept user input operations, an examination request input unit that allows the user to register an examination request in the device, a reservation time input unit that allows the user to reserve the time for replacement of replacement items (reagents and consumables), and a replacement item input unit that allows the user to select the replacement item to be replaced.

[0016] The control unit 3 is a control device, such as a computer such as a PC, that controls the overall operation of the automatic analyzer 1. The control unit 3 includes, as functional units that control the automatic analyzer 1, a test request registration unit that registers test requests input by users, a replacement item management unit that manages the remaining numbers of replacement items (reagents and consumables), a planning unit that plans the operation of the automatic analyzer 1 based on information from other components, an operation control unit that controls the operation of the automatic analyzer 1 based on the plan made by the planning unit, and an analysis unit that analyzes the measurement results.

[0017] The specimen loading section 4 is a specimen loading device that loads specimen containers 20 (described later) containing specimens to be analyzed into the automatic analyzer 1 and unloads specimen containers 20 from the automatic analyzer 1. The loading and unloading of specimen containers 20 is performed in a state where a plurality of specimen containers 20 are loaded on a specimen rack 100 (specimen container loading rack: described later).

[0018] The replacement item storage unit 5 is a functional unit that stores reagents and replacement items used in the automatic analyzer 1. The replacement item storage unit 5 stores one or more types of reagents and replacement items, and the user can access the replacement items by issuing instructions via the display operation unit 2 or the switch 10.

[0019] The sample dispensing unit 6 is a sample dispensing device that dispenses samples from sample containers 20, and dispenses samples from the sample containers 20 in the sample rack 100 that have been transported to a predetermined position (sample dispensing position) into reaction containers in the measurement unit 8, etc.

[0020] The extraction unit 7 mixes the specimen dispensed by the specimen dispensing unit 6 with a replacement reagent to extract a predetermined component. That is, the extraction unit 7 functions as a reaction unit that mixes and reacts the specimen, which is the measurement target, with a reagent that specifically reacts with the measurement target component, thereby extracting the predetermined component.

[0021] The measurement unit 8 is an analytical device that performs qualitative and quantitative analysis of a sample by quantitatively measuring the components extracted in the extraction unit, i.e., the complex formed by the reaction between the sample, which is the object to be measured, the component to be measured, and the reagent.

[0022] The display unit 9 is a display device that notifies the user of the operating status of the automatic analyzer 1, and is, for example, a stacked signal light, a display light, a rotating light, or the like.

[0023] The switch 10 is an input device for inputting user instructions, and for example, when the user operates the switch 10, access to a replacement item becomes possible.

[0024] 2 is a three-view diagram illustrating an example of a sample rack on which sample containers are mounted. In this embodiment, the leading end of the sample rack 100 when inserted into the sample mounting section 4 in the forward direction is referred to as the front end, and the other end is referred to as the rear end.

[0025] In Figure 2, the sample rack 100 is configured to allow multiple sample containers 20 to be mounted, and the main body 111 that constitutes the main part of the sample rack 100 is provided with an opening 101, identification information 102, 112, a window 103, a notch 104, a protruding member opening / closing portion 105, etc.

[0026] The main body 111 of the sample rack 100 is configured to have a color that corresponds to the type of sample rack 100 (more precisely, the type of sample containers 20 mounted on the sample rack 100). The user can easily recognize the type of sample rack 100 by the color of the main body 111, thereby reducing handling errors.

[0027] The opening 101 is a structural part for bridging one or more specimen containers 20, and is formed facing upward at the top of the main body 111. In this embodiment, a case where a plurality of (five) openings 101 are arranged in the front-to-rear direction is exemplified.

[0028] The identification information 102 is composed of a barcode label or the like on which information for identifying the type of sample rack 100 (more precisely, the type of sample container 20 mounted on the sample rack 100) is recorded, and is arranged at at least one end of the sample rack 100 in the front-to-rear direction (for example, the rear end in this embodiment).

[0029] The identification information 112 indicates information for identifying the type of sample rack 100 (more precisely, the type of sample containers 20 mounted on the sample rack 100), and is composed of a color bar or the like of a color corresponding to the type of sample rack 100, and is provided on at least one of the side surfaces (in this embodiment, for example, the left side surface when facing the front end). The user can easily recognize the type of sample rack 100 by the color of the identification information 112, thereby reducing handling errors.

[0030] The window portion 103 is a structural portion for reading the identification information 21 attached to the sample container 20 from the side when the sample container 20 is mounted on the sample rack 100, and is formed so as to communicate with the opening 101 from at least one of the side surfaces (in this embodiment, for example, the left side surface facing the front end).

[0031] The notch 104 is a structural part used when transporting the sample rack 100, and is formed at the bottom of the sample rack 100 so as to be engageable with a transport carriage 302 (described later).

[0032] The protruding member opening / closing portion 105 is a structural portion for pushing aside a protruding member 204 (described later) of the reverse insertion prevention mechanism 203 when the sample rack 100 is inserted forward into the sample stacking portion 4, and is formed at one end (front end) of the sample rack 100. The protruding member opening / closing portion 105 is formed, for example, as a planar structure provided at a corner portion of one end (front end) of the sample rack 100, and is configured to abut against the protruding member 204 (described later) at an angle relative to the insertion direction of the sample rack 100.

[0033] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating different types of sample racks and sample containers.

[0034] 3, the type and shape of the specimen container 20 used vary depending on the amount and purpose of the specimen. Identification information 21 (barcode label) indicating information about the specimen contained therein is attached to the side of the specimen container 20.

[0035] The types of specimen containers 20 include, for example, specimen containers 20A for patient specimens, specimen containers 20B for quality control, specimen containers 20C for calibration, and specimen containers 20D for controls. Furthermore, specimen containers 20A for patient specimens are divided into specimen containers 20AR for general specimens (routine) and specimen containers 20AS for rapid specimens (statim) according to the priority of the test.

[0036] <Rapid Sample (Patient Sample): Sample Container 20AR> The sample rack 100A is a sample rack for mounting sample containers 20A for patient samples, and the main body 111A is colored (e.g., gray) to indicate that it is a sample rack for mounting sample containers 20A for patient samples. The identification information 102A is colored (e.g., gray) to indicate that it is a sample rack 100A for mounting sample containers 20A for patient samples. The identification information 112A also records information indicating that it is a sample rack for mounting sample containers 20A for patient samples. A rapid sample container 20AS is mounted in at least one of the openings 101 of the sample rack 100A. The position and enabled / disabled status of the openings 101 for mounting the sample containers 20AS can be switched based on instructions from the controller 3, which controls the operation of the automated analyzer 1.

[0037] <Quality Control Sample: Sample Container 20B> The sample rack 100B is a sample rack for mounting sample containers 20B containing quality control samples, and the main body 111B is colored (e.g., blue) to indicate that the sample rack 100B is for mounting sample containers 20B containing quality control samples. The identification information 102B records information indicating that the sample rack 100B is for mounting sample containers 20B containing quality control samples. The identification information 112B is also colored (e.g., green) to indicate that the sample rack 100B is for mounting sample containers 20B containing quality control samples. A sample container 20B containing a quality control sample is mounted in at least one of the openings 101 of the sample rack 100B. The position and enabled / disabled status of the openings 101 for mounting the sample containers 20B can be switched based on instructions from the control unit 3, which controls the operation of the automated analyzer 1.

[0038] <Calibration Sample: Sample Container 20C> The sample rack 100C is a sample rack for accommodating sample containers 20C containing calibration samples, and the main body 111C is colored (e.g., black) to indicate that the sample rack 100C is for accommodating sample containers 20C containing calibration samples. The identification information 102C records information indicating that the sample rack 100C is for accommodating sample containers 20C containing calibration samples. The identification information 112C is also colored (e.g., green) to indicate that the sample rack 100C is for accommodating sample containers 20C containing calibration samples. A calibration sample container 20C is installed in at least one of the openings 101 of the sample rack 100C. The position and enabled / disabled status of the openings 101 for accommodating sample containers 20C can be switched based on instructions from the controller 3, which controls the operation of the automated analyzer 1.

[0039] <Control Sample: Sample Container 20D> The sample rack 100D is a sample rack for mounting sample containers 20D containing control samples, and the main body 111D is colored (e.g., black) to indicate that the sample rack 100D is for mounting control sample containers 20D. The identification information 102D records information indicating that the sample rack 100D is for mounting control sample containers 20D. The identification information 112D is also colored (e.g., green) to indicate that the sample rack 100D is for mounting control sample containers 20D. A control sample container 20D is mounted in at least one of the openings 101 of the sample rack 100D. The position and enabled / disabled status of the openings 101 for mounting the sample containers 20D can be switched based on instructions from the control unit 3, which controls the operation of the automated analyzer 1.

[0040] Next, the configuration of the sample installation section (sample installation device) and the insertion and ejection processes of the sample rack (sample container installation rack) will be described.

[0041] <Insertion Process: Correct Insertion Orientation (Forward Insertion)> Figures 4 to 6 show the process of inserting a sample rack into the sample installation section, where the sample rack is inserted into the sample installation section in the forward direction. Figure 4 is a top view, Figure 5 is a front view, and Figure 6 is a side cross-sectional view taken along line A-A in Figure 5.

[0042] As mentioned above, of the longitudinal ends of the sample rack 100, the tip when inserted forward into the sample mounting section 4 is referred to as the front end, and the other end is referred to as the rear end, and insertion into the sample mounting section 4 from the tip is considered to be the correct insertion direction.

[0043] The sample installation section 4 is provided with a sample rack installation device 200. The sample rack installation device 200 includes one or more insertion ports 201 (slots) for inserting the sample racks 100, an insertion path 202 continuing from the insertion ports 201, and a reverse insertion prevention mechanism 203 for preventing the sample racks 100 from being inserted into the insertion path 202 in the wrong direction.

[0044] The reverse insertion prevention mechanism 203 has a protruding member 204 that protrudes laterally into the insertion path 202 and is retractable outside the insertion path 202. The protruding member 204 is made of, for example, a resin with a low friction coefficient and a torsion spring, and is maintained in a protruding state toward the insertion path 202 by the elastic force of the torsion spring. When the sample rack 100 is inserted from the front end into the insertion path 202 from the insertion port 201 (i.e., forward insertion), the protruding member 204 is retracted from the insertion path against the elastic force of the torsion spring by a protruding member opening / closing portion 105 provided at the front end of the sample rack 100, thereby allowing the sample rack 100 to be inserted into the insertion path 202. The amount of protrusion of the protruding member 204 into the insertion path 202 is determined in accordance with the protruding member opening / closing portion 105 of the sample rack 100.

[0045] The insertion ports 201 of the sample rack installation device 200 are provided with an installation status display unit 205 that notifies the user of the installation status of the sample racks 100. The installation status display unit 205 notifies the user of the sample processing status of each sample rack 100 inserted into each insertion port 201 by lighting or flashing a color (e.g., red, orange, green, white, blue, yellow).

[0046] <Insertion Process: Incorrect Insertion Orientation (Reverse Insertion)> Figures 7 to 9 show the process of inserting a sample rack into the sample installation section, showing cases where the sample rack is inserted into the sample installation section in the forward direction and in the reverse direction. Figure 7 is a top view, Figure 8 is a front view, and Figure 9 is a side cross-sectional view taken along line B-B in Figure 8.

[0047] 7 to 9 show the case where the sample racks 100a, 100b, and 100c are inserted into the respective insertion slots 201 by the user.

[0048] When the sample racks 100a and 100b are inserted from the front ends thereof through the insertion openings 201 into the insertion path 202 (i.e., forward insertion), the protruding members 204 of the reverse insertion prevention mechanism 203 are retracted from the insertion path against the elastic force of the torsion springs by the protruding member opening / closing parts 105 provided at the front ends of the sample racks 100a and 100b, thereby allowing the sample racks 100a and 100b to be inserted into the insertion path 202. At this time, the installation status display unit 205 notifies the user of the sample processing status of each of the sample racks 100a and 100b inserted into each insertion opening 201 by lighting or flashing a color (e.g., red, orange, green, white, blue, or yellow).

[0049] On the other hand, when the sample rack 100c is inserted from its rear end into the insertion path 202 through the insertion port 201, the protruding member 204 perpendicularly abuts against the rear end (rear end surface) of the sample rack 100c, thereby blocking the insertion into the insertion path 202. The contact portion of the protruding member 204 with the sample rack 100c is parallel to the rear end surface of the sample rack 100c so as to uniformly contact the rear end (rear end surface) of the sample rack 100c.

[0050] If the user inserts the sample rack 100c in the wrong orientation, the sample rack 100c cannot be inserted into the device. That is, the user cannot insert the sample rack 100c further back than the reverse insertion prevention mechanism 203 of the insertion path 202, and is therefore able to notice the handling error. By quickly inserting the sample rack 100c in the correct insertion orientation and retrying, the user can insert the sample rack 100c into the automated analyzer 1, and sample processing can be re-executed in a short time.

[0051] 10 to 12 are diagrams showing the process of discharging a sample rack from a sample rack mounting section, in which Fig. 10 is a top view, Fig. 11 is a front view, and Fig. 12 is a side cross-sectional view taken along line CC in Fig. 11.

[0052] The user can easily recognize that processing has been completed for the sample racks 100a, 100b, and 100c inserted into the respective insertion slots 201, based on the notification from the display / operation unit 2 or the installation status display units 205A, 205B, and 205C. The sample racks 100a, 100b, and 100c for which processing has been completed can be ejected (removed) by the user.

[0053] It is more preferable to provide a sample rack detector (first sample rack detector 206, second sample rack detector 207) for detecting the presence or absence of a sample rack 100 in each insertion path 202, detect the insertion state of the sample rack 100 in the sample installation unit 4, and transmit the detected information to the control unit 3. The configuration of the sample installation unit (sample installation device) and the insertion and ejection processes of the sample rack (sample container installation rack) in this case will be described below.

[0054] <Insertion Process: Detection by Sample Rack Detectors 206, 207> Figures 13 to 15 show the process of inserting a sample rack into the sample installation section, showing the cases where the sample rack is inserted into the sample installation section in the forward direction and the reverse direction. Figure 13 is a top view, Figure 14 is a front view, and Figure 15 is a side cross-sectional view taken along line D-D in Figure 14.

[0055] 13 to 15 show the case where the sample racks 100a, 100b, and 100c are inserted into the respective insertion slots 201 by the user.

[0056] The sample rack installation device 200 is equipped with one or more insertion ports 201 (slots) for inserting sample racks 100a, 100b, and 100c, an insertion path 202 continuing from the insertion ports 201, a reverse insertion prevention mechanism 203 for preventing the sample rack 100 from being inserted backward into the insertion path 202, and a first sample rack detection unit 206 and a second sample rack detection unit 207 for detecting the presence or absence of the sample rack 100 in the insertion path 202.

[0057] The first sample rack detector 206 is provided near the insertion port 201 of the insertion path 202 (on the side of the reverse insertion prevention mechanism 203 on the insertion port 201 side), and can detect that the sample rack 100 has been inserted into the insertion path 202 from the insertion port 201. The second sample rack detector 207 is provided at the back of the insertion path 202 (on the side of the reverse insertion prevention mechanism 203 on the opposite side from the insertion port 201), and can detect that the sample rack 100 has passed through the reverse insertion prevention mechanism 203 and been inserted into the insertion path 202. That is, the controller 3 can detect that the sample rack 100 has been inserted into the insertion path 202 in the correct orientation (forward direction) by acquiring information that the sample rack 100 has been detected by both the first sample rack detector 206 and the second sample rack detector 207.

[0058] When the sample racks 100a and 100b are inserted from their front ends into the insertion path 202 through the insertion port 201 (i.e., forward insertion), the protruding members 204 of the reverse insertion prevention mechanism 203 are retracted from the insertion path against the elastic force of a torsion spring by a protruding member opening / closing portion 105 provided at the front end of the sample rack 100, thereby allowing the sample racks 100a and 100b to be inserted into the insertion path 202. At this time, the sample racks 100a and 100b are detected sequentially by the first sample rack detector 206 and the second sample rack detector 207, and the control unit 3 can detect the insertion of the sample racks 100a and 100b into the insertion path 202. The installation status display unit 205 notifies the user of the sample processing status of each of the sample racks 100a and 100b inserted into each insertion port 201 by lighting or flashing a color (e.g., red, orange, green, white, blue, or yellow).

[0059] On the other hand, when the sample rack 100c is inserted from the rear end thereof into the insertion path 202 through the insertion port 201, the protruding member 204 abuts perpendicularly against the rear end (rear end surface) of the sample rack 100c, thereby blocking the insertion into the insertion path 202.

[0060] If the user inserts the sample rack 100c in the wrong orientation, the sample rack 100c cannot be inserted into the device. That is, the user cannot insert the sample rack 100c further back than the reverse insertion prevention mechanism 203 of the insertion path 202, and is therefore able to notice the handling error. By quickly inserting the sample rack 100c in the correct insertion orientation and retrying, the user can insert the sample rack 100c into the automated analyzer 1, and sample processing can be re-executed in a short time.

[0061] 16 to 18 are diagrams showing the process of discharging a sample rack from a sample rack mounting section. Fig. 16 is a top view, Fig. 17 is a front view, and Fig. 18 is a side cross-sectional view taken along line EE in Fig. 17.

[0062] The user can easily recognize that processing of the sample racks 100a, 100b, and 100c inserted into each insertion port 201 has been completed by receiving a notification from the display / operation unit 2 or the installation status display units 205A, 205B, and 205C. The sample racks 100a, 100b, and 100c for which processing has been completed can be ejected (removed) by the user. At this time, the sample racks 100a, 100b, and 100c are no longer detected by the second sample rack detector 207 and then the first sample rack detector 206, allowing the controller 3 to detect the ejection (removal) of the sample racks 100a, 100b, and 100c from the insertion path 202.

[0063] Next, the processing of the sample rack 100 in the sample mounting section 4 will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0064] 19 and 20 are diagrams showing the overall configuration of the specimen placement section, with FIG. 19 being a top view and FIG. 20 being a side cross-sectional view taken along line FF in FIG.

[0065] As shown in FIGS. 19 and 20, the sample installation section 4 includes a sample rack installation device 200, a transfer stage 300, an information identification mechanism 400, and the like.

[0066] The sample rack installation device 200 includes one or more insertion ports 201 (slots) for inserting the sample rack 100 and an insertion path 202 continuing from the insertion ports 201, a reverse insertion prevention mechanism 203 for preventing the sample rack 100 from being inserted backward into the insertion path 202, a first sample rack detection unit 206 and a second sample rack detection unit 207 for detecting the presence or absence of the sample rack 100 in the insertion path 202, and an installation status display unit 205.

[0067] The transfer stage 300 includes a transfer carrier 301 that carries the sample rack 100 and transfers it to a predetermined position, a transfer carriage 302 that engages with a cutout portion 104 provided at the bottom of the sample rack 100 and transfers the sample rack 100 between the insertion path 202 and the transfer carrier 301, a drive mechanism 303 that moves the transfer carriage 302 vertically and horizontally, and a third sample rack detection unit 311 that detects the loading of the sample rack 100 on the transfer carrier 301.

[0068] The information identification mechanism 400 includes a detection unit 402 that detects that the sample rack 100 has been transported to a predetermined position (information reading position) by the transport carrier 301, an information identification unit 401 that reads and identifies the identification information 21 of the sample container 20 through the window 103 of the sample rack 100, and a drive unit 403 that can move the information identification unit 401 and the detection unit 402 together in one axial direction along the sample rack 100 at the information reading position.

[0069] 21 and 22 are diagrams showing how a sample rack is loaded into the sample loading section, with FIG. 21 being a top view and FIG. 22 being a side cross-sectional view taken along line FF in FIG.

[0070] 21 and 22 , when a sample rack 100 is loaded into the sample loading section 4, the transfer carrier 301 of the transfer stage 300 moves to the insertion path 202 along which the sample rack 100 has been loaded, in response to an instruction from the control section 3. In addition, the transfer carriage 302 is engaged with the notch 104 of the sample rack 100 by a drive mechanism 303.

[0071] 23 and 24 are diagrams showing the state of transfer of a sample rack to a transfer carrier, with FIG. 23 being a top view and FIG. 24 being a side cross-sectional view taken along line FF in FIG.

[0072] With the notch 104 of the sample rack 100 engaged with the transport carriage 302, the drive mechanism 303 moves the transport carriage 302 toward the transport stage 300, thereby transporting the sample rack 100 from the insertion path 202 of the sample rack installation device 200 to the transport carrier 301 of the transport stage 300. At this time, the third sample rack detection unit 311 detects that the sample rack 100 has been placed on the transport carrier 301, and sends the detection information to the control unit 3.

[0073] 25 and 26 are diagrams showing how a sample rack is transported to an information reading position by a transport carrier, with FIG. 25 being a top view and FIG. 26 being a side cross-sectional view taken along line FF in FIG.

[0074] The transfer stage 300 transfers the sample rack 100 placed on the transfer carrier 301 to the information reading position. At this time, the transfer carrier 301, transfer carriage 302, and drive mechanism 303 of the transfer stage 300 move integrally.

[0075] 27 and 28 are diagrams showing how information is read by the information identification mechanism, with FIG. 27 being a top view and FIG. 28 being a side cross-sectional view taken along line FF in FIG.

[0076] The information identification mechanism 400 checks the sample rack 100 transported to the information reading position and the presence or absence of sample containers 20 in the sample rack 100 using the detection unit 402, identifies the information of the sample containers 20 using the information identification unit 401, and transfers the identified information to the control unit 3.

[0077] 29 and 30 are diagrams showing how samples are dispensed from sample containers in a sample rack, with FIG. 29 being a top view and FIG. 30 being a side cross-sectional view taken along line FF in FIG.

[0078] The operation of the automatic analyzer 1 is planned and controlled according to the test request details input to the control unit 3, the sample rack 100 is transported to the sample dispensing position by the transport carrier 301 of the transport stage 300, and the sample dispensing process is performed by the sample dispensing unit 6.

[0079] 31 and 32 are diagrams showing the state of sample rack transfer to the sample rack installation device, where FIG. 31 is a top view and FIG. 32 is a side cross-sectional view taken along line FF in FIG.

[0080] The sample rack 100 for which the sample dispensing process has been completed is transferred to the designated transfer position on the insertion path 202 .

[0081] 33 and 34 are diagrams showing how a sample rack is loaded into the sample loading section, with FIG. 33 being a top view and FIG. 34 being a side cross-sectional view taken along line FF in FIG.

[0082] The transfer carrier 301 of the transfer stage 300 is transferred to a position of a predetermined insertion path 202, and with the cutout portion 104 of the sample rack 100 engaged with the transfer carriage 302, the transfer carriage 302 is moved toward the sample rack installation device 200 by the drive mechanism 303, thereby transferring the sample rack 100 from the transfer carrier 301 of the transfer stage 300 to the insertion path 202 of the sample rack installation device 200.

[0083] 35 and 36 are diagrams showing how a sample rack is discharged onto the sample loading section, with FIG. 35 being a top view and FIG. 36 being a side cross-sectional view taken along line FF in FIG.

[0084] The user is notified by the display operation unit 2 or the installation status display units 205A, 205B, and 205C that the processing of the sample rack 100 has been completed. The user can eject the sample rack 100 for which the processing has been completed.

[0085] While the above description deals with the processing of general samples, priority is given to the processing of rapid samples. Specifically, when a sample container 20AS requiring rapid sample processing is loaded into a sample rack 100 loaded into the sample loading device, the transfer carrier 301 of the transfer stage 300 moves to the insertion slot 201 into which the specified sample rack 100 has been loaded, in response to an instruction from the control unit 3 ( FIGS. 21 and 22 ). The transfer carriage 302 in the transfer carrier 301 moves to the insertion path 202 and engages with the notch 104 that engages with the transfer carriage 302 of the sample rack 100, thereby transferring the sample rack 100 to the transfer carrier 301 ( FIGS. 23 and 24 ). The transfer stage 300 then transfers the sample rack 100 in the transfer carrier 301 to the sample container information identification mechanism 400 ( FIGS. 25 and 26 ). The information identification mechanism 400 checks the presence or absence of sample containers 20 in the sample rack 100 using the detection unit 402, identifies the information of the sample containers 20 using the information identification unit 401, and transfers the information to the control unit 3 ( FIGS. 27 and 28 ). The control unit 3 plans and controls the operation of the device according to the input test request, and the sample dispensing unit 6 performs sample dispensing processing preferentially ( FIGS. 29 and 30 ). After processing of the sample rack 100 is completed, the sample rack 100 is preferentially transported to the instructed insertion path 202 ( FIGS. 31 and 32 ). The transport carriage 302 in the transport stage 300 moves to the insertion path 202 and engages with the notch 104 that engages with the transport carriage 302, transporting the sample rack 100 from the transport carrier 301 to the insertion path 202 ( FIGS. 33 and 34 ).

[0086] FIG. 37 is a diagram showing the sample processing operation and the state of the sample rack detector.

[0087] 37, the first sample rack detector 206, the second sample rack detector 207, and the third sample rack detector 311 detect the status of at least one or more sample racks 100 and transfer the information to the controller 3. The user can check the status of at least one or more sample racks 100 by receiving a notification from the display / operation unit 2 or the installation status display unit 205, enabling simple sample processing.

[0088] In the present embodiment configured as described above, the sample installation device installs a sample container installation rack on which a plurality of sample containers are installed, and includes an insertion port through which the sample container installation rack is inserted along an insertion path of the sample installation device, and a sample container installation rack reverse insertion prevention mechanism that allows insertion of the sample container installation rack only from the front end of the sample container installation rack into the insertion path and blocks insertion from the rear end of the sample container installation rack. The sample container installation rack reverse insertion prevention mechanism protrudes from the side into the insertion path and is retracted from the insertion path by a protruding member opening / closing part provided at the front end of the sample container installation rack when the sample container installation rack is inserted from the front end into the insertion path from the insertion port, and is configured to have a protruding member that blocks insertion of the rear end of the sample container installation rack into the insertion path when the sample container installation rack is inserted from the rear end into the insertion path from the insertion port. This allows the user to easily handle sample containers, such as by loading and unloading, and prevents users from mishandling sample containers.

[0089] <Notes> The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and includes various modifications and combinations within the scope of the gist thereof. Furthermore, the present invention is not limited to those including all of the configurations described in the above-described embodiments, and also includes those in which some of the configurations are omitted. Furthermore, the above-described configurations, functions, etc. may be realized in part or in whole by designing them as, for example, integrated circuits. Furthermore, the above-described configurations, functions, etc. may be realized in software by a processor interpreting and executing a program that realizes each function.

[0090] 1...automatic analyzer, 2...display operation unit, 3...control unit, 4...specimen installation unit, 5...replacement storage unit, 6...specimen dispensing unit, 7...extraction unit, 8...measurement unit, 9...display unit, 10...switch, 20, 20A, 20AR, 20AS, 20B, 20C, 20D...specimen container, 21...identification information, 100, 100A, 100B, 100C, 100D...specimen rack, 101...opening, 102, 102A, 102B, 102C, 102D...identification information, 103...window portion, 104...notch portion, 105...protruding member opening / closing portion, 111, 111A, 111B, 111C, 1 11D...Main body, 112, 112A, 112B, 112C, 112D...Identification information, 200...Sample rack installation device, 201...Insertion port, 202...Insertion path, 203...Reverse insertion prevention mechanism, 204...Protruding member, 205, 205A, 205B, 205C, 206...First sample rack detection unit, 207...Second sample rack detection unit, 300...Transfer stage, 301...Transfer carrier, 302...Transfer carriage, 303...Driving mechanism, 311...Third sample rack detection unit, 400...Information identification mechanism, 401...Information identification unit, 402...Detecting unit, 403...Driving unit

Claims

1. A specimen installation device for installing a specimen container installation rack on which a plurality of specimen containers are installed, comprising: an insertion port for inserting the specimen container installation rack along an insertion path of the specimen installation device; and a specimen container installation rack reverse insertion prevention mechanism that allows insertion of the specimen container installation rack only from the front end into the insertion path and blocks insertion from the rear end of the specimen container installation rack, wherein the specimen container installation rack reverse insertion prevention mechanism has a protruding member that protrudes from the side into the insertion path and is retracted from the insertion path by a protruding member opening / closing part provided at the front end of the specimen container installation rack when the specimen container installation rack is inserted from the front end into the insertion path from the insertion port, and that blocks insertion of the rear end of the specimen container installation rack into the insertion path when the specimen container installation rack is inserted from the insertion port into the insertion path from the rear end.

2. A specimen installation device according to claim 1, comprising: a first specimen container installation rack detection unit provided on the insertion opening side of the insertion path and detecting the specimen container installation rack inserted into the insertion path; a second specimen container installation rack detection unit provided on the opposite side of the insertion path from the insertion opening side and detecting the specimen container installation rack inserted into the insertion path; a control unit that determines the installation status of the specimen container installation rack based on the detection results of the first specimen container installation rack detection unit and the second specimen container installation rack detection unit; and an installation status display unit provided on the insertion opening side of the insertion path and displaying the status of the specimen container installation rack in color according to the installation status determination result of the specimen container installation rack by the control unit.

3. A specimen installation device according to claim 1, comprising a transfer stage for transporting the specimen container installation rack to a predetermined position, the transfer stage comprising: a transfer carrier for loading the specimen container installation rack and transporting it to a predetermined position; a transfer carriage for engaging with a notch provided at the bottom of the specimen container installation rack and transporting the specimen container installation rack between the insertion path and on the transfer carrier; a drive mechanism for moving the transfer carriage vertically and horizontally; a specimen container installation rack detection unit for detecting the loading of the specimen container installation rack on the transfer carrier; and an identification information reading mechanism for reading identification information of the specimen containers installed on the specimen container installation rack of the transfer carrier, wherein a control device for controlling the operation of the transfer carrier transports the specimen container installation rack based on the detection result of the specimen container installation rack detection unit and the identification information read by the identification information reading mechanism.

4. An automatic analyzer comprising the specimen installation device of claim 1; a display and input device for displaying test request details and registering predetermined information; a dispensing device for dispensing specimens to be analyzed from a plurality of specimen containers in a specimen container installation rack transported to a predetermined position by the specimen installation device; an extraction device for extracting predetermined components from the specimens dispensed by the dispensing device; and a measuring device for measuring the components extracted by the extraction device.

5. An automatic analyzer according to claim 4, wherein the specimen container mounting rack comprises: a main body having a color corresponding to the type of specimen container mounting rack; a rack identification information display unit provided on the main body that displays identification information for identifying the type of specimen container mounting rack; and a window provided on the specimen container so that identification information for identifying the specimen can be read from the specimen identification information display unit provided on the specimen container in order to identify the specimen contained in the specimen container mounted on the specimen container mounting rack.

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