Specimen analysis device

Abstract

A reagent bag (108) is configured from a bag body (118) and a spout (120). A housing (96) has an accommodation chamber (110). A case (104) is configured with a case body (114) accommodating the bag body (118), and a cover (116) covering the spout (120). A guiding mechanism (106) guides a rotational movement of the case (104) drawn out from an accommodation position inside the accommodation chamber (110) and thereby brings the case (104) into an upright state.

Description

Sample analyzer

[0001] The present invention relates to a sample analyzer, and more particularly to a structure for accommodating a reagent bag.

[0002] A sample analyzer is a device that analyzes samples (blood, urine, etc.) extracted from a living body. Examples of sample analyzers include immunoassay devices and biochemical analyzers. Sample analyzers use a variety of reagents. For example, a sample analyzer that uses chemiluminescent enzyme immunoassay (CLEIA) uses a substrate liquid, a diluent, etc. in addition to a primary reaction reagent and a secondary reaction reagent. In this specification, the term "reagent" refers to a reagent in a broad sense, including a substrate liquid and a diluent.

[0003] A sample analyzer typically includes a refrigerator or other equipment that houses multiple reagent containers. The reagent containers are generally hard bottles made of resin or other materials.

[0004] From the viewpoints of transportation, storage, disposal, etc., it is desirable to use a flexible bag-like container with an opening (spout) instead of a hard bottle. The opening is also called a spout, and the flexible bag-like container is also called a pouch. In this specification, a flexible bag-like container with an opening that contains a reagent is referred to as a "reagent bag."

[0005] When using a reagent bag, if a long nozzle is required to be inserted into the reagent bag, problems arise such as the nozzle insertion process being cumbersome, not all of the reagent in the reagent bag being able to be aspirated, leaving a considerable amount of reagent in the reagent bag, and the nozzle damaging the inner surface of the reagent bag.It is necessary to remove the reagent from the reagent bag without inserting the nozzle into the reagent bag or inserting the nozzle too deep into the reagent bag.

[0006] A reagent bag is used in the sample analyzer disclosed in Patent Document 1. A reagent bag is also used in the sample analyzer disclosed in Patent Document 2. Neither Patent Document 1 nor Patent Document 2 discloses a mechanism for changing the position of the reagent bag when replacing the reagent bag.

[0007] Patent Document 3 discloses a liquid medicine dispensing device. The liquid medicine dispensing device has a rotating unit that holds multiple liquid medicine bottles. Each liquid medicine bottle is considered to be a hard bottle. The rotating unit rotates within a housing, but does not rotate outside the housing. In any case, Patent Document 3 does not disclose technology related to sample analysis.

[0008] JP-T-2009-517663A JP-A-2017-181033A WO 2009-060872A

[0009] To remove the reagent from the reagent bag without inserting the nozzle into the reagent bag or inserting it too deeply, the reagent bag can be held upside down. On the other hand, when replacing the reagent bag, the reagent bag must be held upright. It is desirable to realize a sample analyzer equipped with a mechanism that can change the position of the reagent bag depending on the situation.

[0010] An object of the present invention is to provide a sample analyzer that can properly handle a reagent bag. Another object of the present invention is to prevent the sample analyzer from becoming large when realizing a sample analyzer that can selectively place a reagent bag in an upright or inverted position. Another object of the present invention is to improve the operability when replacing a reagent bag. Another object of the present invention is to prevent problems such as bending of the reagent bag.

[0011] The sample analysis device of the present invention is characterized by including a case for storing a reagent bag, a housing having a storage chamber for storing the case, and a guide mechanism that guides the forward rotational movement of the case when it is pulled out from its storage position in the storage chamber to cause the case to be in an upright position, and guides the reverse rotational movement of the case before returning it to the storage position to cause the case to be in an inverted position.

[0012] According to the present invention, a sample analyzer capable of properly handling a reagent bag can be provided. Alternatively, according to the present invention, a sample analyzer that can selectively place a reagent bag in an upright or inverted position can be realized, preventing the sample analyzer from becoming large. Alternatively, according to the present invention, the workability when replacing a reagent bag can be improved. Alternatively, problems such as bending of the reagent bag can be prevented.

[0013] 1 is a front view of a sample analyzer according to an embodiment; FIG. 2 is a top view schematically showing multiple processing units provided in the sample analyzer according to an embodiment; FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a refrigerator; FIG. 4 is a perspective view of four cases housed in a housing; FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a refrigerator; FIG. 6 is a view showing two rotation axes; FIG. 7 is a view showing rotational movement of the case in the forward direction; FIG. 8 is a view showing the cover in an open state; FIG. 9 is a view showing the cover in a closed state; FIG. 10 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view showing the interior of the case; FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view showing the interior of the case; FIG. 12 is a view showing the immediate previous state; FIG. 13 is a view showing a temporary placement state; FIG. 14 is a view showing an installation state; FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view showing the structure of a connection section; FIG. 16 is a view showing sliding movement of the case and subsequent rotational movement of the case; FIG. 17 is a view showing combined movement according to a modified example; FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing the work and operations when replacing a reagent bag; FIG. 19 is a view showing an assembly according to another embodiment; FIG. 20 is a view showing a limiting mechanism according to another embodiment; FIG. 21 is a view showing a rotational state according to another embodiment; FIG. 22 is a view showing an upright state according to another embodiment; FIG. 23 is a view showing two rotation axes according to another embodiment; FIG. 24 is a view showing movable parts according to another embodiment; FIG. 25 is a view showing a proximity sensor.

[0014] Hereinafter, an embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0015] (1) Overview of the embodiment The sample analyzer according to the embodiment includes a case, a housing, and a guide mechanism. The case is a component that accommodates a reagent bag. The housing has a storage chamber that accommodates the case. The guide mechanism guides the forward rotation of the case when it is pulled out from its storage position within the storage chamber, thereby placing the case in an upright position. The guide mechanism also guides the reverse rotation of the case before returning it to its storage position, thereby placing the case in an inverted position.

[0016] According to the above configuration, the reagent bag is housed in the case, which prevents deformation (e.g., bending) of the reagent bag in both the upright and inverted states, and also protects the reagent bag when it is used and replaced. Since the reagent bag is in an inverted state when it is used, reagent can be removed from the reagent bag without inserting a nozzle into the reagent bag or inserting the nozzle deeply. Furthermore, since the reagent bag is pulled out and placed in an upright state when it is replaced, the reagent bag replacement process is facilitated.

[0017] In an embodiment, the bag body of the reagent bag is a flexible, bag-shaped member. The bag body is made of a material that is easily deformed or a deformable material. In contrast, the main part of the case is made of a hard material, and the shape of the case is basically unchanged. In the upright state, the opening (spout) is at the top and the bag body is at the bottom. In the inverted state, the bag body is at the top and the opening is at the bottom. In the upright and inverted states, the central axis of the reagent bag is preferably parallel to the vertical line. However, from the perspective of convenience of replacement work and reagent removal, the reagent bag may be inclined in the upright and inverted states. In that case, the center line of the reagent bag intersects the vertical line. The guide mechanism is a mechanism that causes the reagent bag to perform a predetermined movement when the reagent bag is replaced. The movement of the reagent bag is generated by the force of the user or by power generated by a motor or the like.

[0018] In an embodiment, the guide mechanism causes the case to be in an upright position within the front space of the sample analyzer. This configuration eliminates the need for all rotational movement of the case within the housing, thereby avoiding an increase in the size of the housing. Furthermore, reagent bags can be replaced within the front space, improving operability. The front side of the sample analyzer is the side accessed by the user. The front space is the space near the sample analyzer where the user is present and moves during operation and operation.

[0019] In an embodiment, the guide mechanism guides the positive rotational movement of the case so that all or part of the positive rotational movement of the case occurs within the front space, and the guide mechanism guides the negative rotational movement of the case so that all or part of the negative rotational movement of the case occurs within the front space.

[0020] In the embodiment, the guide mechanism has a sliding mechanism and a rotation mechanism. The sliding mechanism guides the sliding movement of the case. The rotation mechanism guides the rotational movement of the case (specifically, the rotational movement in the positive direction and the rotational movement in the negative direction). This configuration makes it possible to avoid the guide mechanism becoming complicated or large. The sliding movement and the rotational movement may be performed sequentially. In this case, a mechanism for limiting the rotational movement during the sliding movement may be provided. The sliding movement and the rotational movement may be performed simultaneously. In the embodiment, the sliding movement is a linear movement (horizontal movement). It is also conceivable to adopt an arc movement as the sliding movement.

[0021] In an embodiment, the slide mechanism guides the sliding movement of the case between the storage position and a drawer end position horizontally spaced therefrom. For example, the storage position and the drawer end position are defined based on a representative position of the case (such as the rotation axis position or the center position).

[0022] In this embodiment, the rotation mechanism guides the rotational movement of the case when it is at the extended end position. This configuration allows a forward rotational movement to occur after a sliding movement (forward movement), and a backward rotational movement to occur after a sliding movement (rearward movement). This makes it easy to avoid collisions between the case and the housing. Furthermore, the simplified movement of the case improves operability.

[0023] In an embodiment, the guide mechanism includes a limiting mechanism. The limiting mechanism limits the rotational movement of the case when the current position of the case is within a limited section of the sliding movement path of the case. The limiting mechanism also allows the rotational movement of the case when the current position of the case is at the drawer end position of the sliding movement path of the case. The sliding movement path is a path between the retracted position and the drawer end position. The limited section is, for example, a section of the sliding movement path excluding the drawer end position, in other words, a section from the retracted position to a position near the drawer end position.

[0024] In one embodiment, the limiting mechanism includes a first member and a limiting member. The first member is fixed to the case. The limiting member limits the up-and-down movement of the first member when the current position of the case is within the limiting section. This configuration limits the up-and-down movement of the case to which the first member is fixed by limiting the up-and-down movement of the first member.

[0025] In an embodiment, the slide mechanism includes a fixed member and a movable member. The fixed member is fixed directly or indirectly to the housing. The movable member is a member that supports the case and is held by the fixed member so as to be able to slide. The limiting mechanism further includes a first catcher, a second member, and a second catcher. The first catcher catches the first member when the current position of the case is in the storage position. The second catcher is fixed to the movable member and catches the second member when the current position of the case is in the pull-out end position.

[0026] The first catcher captures the first member, thereby stably maintaining the storage state of the case. The second catcher captures the second member, thereby stably maintaining the extended state of the movable member relative to the fixed member. As a result, inappropriate collision between the first member and the restricting member can be prevented, which means that the restricting mechanism can function properly. The first and second members can each be formed by a protrusion, a roller, or the like. In an embodiment, the first and second catchers each have an elastic member that generates a capturing force.

[0027] In an embodiment, the reagent bag has a flexible bag body and a spout provided on the bag body. The case has a case body and a cover. The case body is a member that houses the bag body. The cover is a member that opens and closes relative to the case body. The cover exposes the spout in the open state and covers the spout in the closed state. This configuration can protect the spout and maintain hygiene of the spout.

[0028] In one embodiment, the case body has a rear surface that faces rearward in the upright position and a top surface that faces upward in the upright position. The case rotates around a rotation axis provided at or near a corner between the rear surface and the top surface. With this configuration, if the height of the case in the upright position is defined as a first height and the height of the case in the inverted position is defined as a second height, the first height can be relatively lowered and the second height can be relatively raised. This facilitates reagent bag replacement and reagent removal from the reagent bag. The rear and top are defined relative to the sample analyzer. The vicinity of the corner includes positions outside the corner.

[0029] In an embodiment, the case includes a connection portion provided inside the cover. The connection portion is connected to the spout when the cover is closed, and is disconnected from the spout when the cover is opened. With this configuration, the connection portion is naturally connected to the spout when the cover is closed, improving the workability when replacing the reagent bag. The connection portion is a connector to which a tube for transporting reagent is connected.

[0030] In an embodiment, the nozzle equipment includes a cap and a detector. The cap has a conical space connected to the suction path. The detector is for managing the remaining amount of reagent and has a detection end that contacts the conical space. In the inverted state, the conical space is a space that opens upward. In this state, the conical space is usually filled with reagent. When the remaining amount of reagent in the reagent bag becomes low, a liquid level appears in the conical space and moves downward. The detector detects a change in electrical characteristics that accompanies a change in the liquid level. The suction path corresponds to the suction tube or its internal space.

[0031] In an embodiment, the case has a locking structure. The locking structure is provided across the case body and the cover to keep the cover closed. This configuration prevents the cover from accidentally opening. To reliably keep the cover closed in the inverted position, multiple locking structures or locking means that function in parallel may be provided.

[0032] In an embodiment, the spout has an engagement structure. The engagement structure has an upper flange and a lower flange that are aligned vertically in the upright state, and an intermediate portion provided between the upper flange and the lower flange. The case body has an upper surface plate and a base. The upper surface plate has a groove into which the intermediate portion is inserted. The upper flange rests on the upper surface plate in the upright state. The base is provided at a position adjacent to the entrance of the groove. The lower flange rests on the base. When the lower flange is placed on the base, the height of the intermediate portion matches the height of the groove. This configuration makes it easy to install the reagent bag in the case.

[0033] In an embodiment, the case body has an antenna that communicates with an electronic circuit provided in the bag body. In an embodiment, the housing is provided with a locking mechanism that restricts the case from being pulled out while the reagent bag is in use. A non-contact or contact sensor that detects when the case is in the storage position is provided to control the operation of the locking mechanism.

[0034] The sample analyzer according to the embodiment includes a control unit. The control unit determines whether the reagent bag is appropriate based on data acquired from an electronic circuit provided in the reagent bag. For example, if an inappropriate reagent bag is set, the control unit executes error processing. The error processing may be, for example, the generation of an alarm. The determination of the appropriateness of the reagent bag is preferably performed before removing the cap or before closing the cover.

[0035] (2) Details of the Embodiment FIG. 1 shows a sample analyzer 10 according to an embodiment. This sample analyzer 10 is an immunoassay device that analyzes samples using an immune reaction, i.e., an antigen-antibody reaction, and more specifically, is an immunoassay device that performs chemiluminescent enzyme immunoassay (CLEIA). In this embodiment, the sample to be analyzed is blood (serum, plasma, etc.) extracted from a living body. Other samples that may be analyzed include urine, saliva, cerebrospinal fluid, etc. extracted from a living body. The configuration described below may also be applied to sample analyzers other than immunoassay devices.

[0036] In Figure 1, the sample analyzer 10 has a lower section 80 and an upper section 82. The lower section 80 houses a plurality of pumps, a plurality of tanks, a dust box, etc. In this embodiment, the lower section 80 also includes a refrigerator 88. The refrigerator 88 keeps a plurality of reagents housed therein at a constant temperature. The plurality of reagents are, for example, a substrate solution and a diluent. The refrigerator 88 has an outer door 90.

[0037] The upper portion 82 includes a number of mechanisms. In the illustrated configuration, the mechanisms are covered by transparent covers 84 and 86. The mechanisms will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. 2. The upper portion 82 also includes a display 92.

[0038] The lower part 80 includes a control unit 87. The control unit 87 controls the operation of each component within the sample analyzer 10 and has a processor that executes necessary calculations. In FIG. 1 , the Y direction is the horizontal direction, i.e., left and right, and the Z direction is the vertical direction, i.e., up and down. The direction perpendicular to the Y and Z directions is the X direction. The X direction is the horizontal depth direction.

[0039] 2 is a schematic diagram showing the top surface (i.e., the upper configuration) of the sample analyzer 10. The sample analyzer 10 has a sample supply unit 12, a reaction unit 14, a reagent supply unit 16, a light detection unit 18, a cuvette supply unit 20, cuvette transport mechanisms 24 and 26, a sample dispensing mechanism 28, and reagent dispensing mechanisms 30 and 32. Reference numerals 70 and 72 respectively denote cleaning equipment.

[0040] The specimen supply unit 12 has a turntable 33 as a rotating table. A holding hole group 34 is formed on the turntable 33, and the holding hole group 34 is composed of a plurality of holding holes 34a. In the illustrated example, the holding hole group 34 is composed of an outer holding hole row consisting of a plurality of holding holes 34a arranged in a ring, and an inner holding hole row consisting of a plurality of holding holes 34a arranged in a ring. Each holding hole 34a is a portion that accommodates a specimen container as an original container. The specimen container contains a specimen.

[0041] In the embodiment, the sample is blood (serum, plasma, etc.) as described above. For example, the sample container is a blood collection tube containing blood or another container containing blood. Each sample container is manually inserted into each holding hole 34a by an examiner. The sample container may also be inserted automatically using a mechanism for transporting sample container racks.

[0042] The sample supply unit 12 is provided with a barcode reader (BCR) (not shown). The BCR reads the contents of the barcode label attached to each sample container held by the holding hole group 34. This allows sample information such as the sample ID to be read for each sample. Subject information, analysis items, sample container type, etc. are identified based on the sample ID.

[0043] The sample dispensing mechanism 28 includes a rail mechanism 46, a slide base 48, an arm 50, a nozzle 52, etc. The rail mechanism 46 has a rail that extends in a direction inclined relative to the X and Y directions. The slide base 48 slides along the rail (see reference numeral 53). The base end of the arm 50 is rotatably held by the slide base 48, and the nozzle 52 is disposed at the tip of the arm 50.

[0044] The nozzle 52 is composed of a nozzle body and a nozzle tip. The nozzle tip is detachably attached to the nozzle body. The nozzle body is made of metal, and the nozzle tip is made of a transparent, semi-transparent, or opaque resin. The nozzle tip is replaced after sample aspiration.

[0045] The movement area of ​​the nozzle 52 is expanded by a combination of the sliding movement of the slide base 48 and the pivoting movement of the arm 50. Under the control of the control unit, during sample dispensing, the sample in a sample container (source container) at the suction position is aspirated by the nozzle 52, and the aspirated sample is discharged from the nozzle 52 into a specific cuvette on the reaction unit 14. The discharge destination position may be fixed, or may be dynamically changed. The cuvette corresponds to the sample container and the reaction vessel.

[0046] The tip rack 54 is a member that holds a plurality of nozzle tips. When replacing a nozzle tip, the used nozzle tip is removed from the nozzle body and discarded. The tip of the nozzle body is then inserted into the upper opening of a nozzle tip selected from the tip rack 54. This attaches a new nozzle tip to the nozzle body. The tip rack is replaced by a tip rack replacement mechanism (not shown).

[0047] The reaction unit 14 has a turntable 39 serving as a rotating platform or movable table. A group of holding holes 40 is formed in the turntable 39, and the group of holding holes 40 is composed of a plurality of holding holes 40a. The group of holding holes 40 may be composed of an outer row of holding holes composed of a plurality of holding holes arranged in a ring, and an inner row of holding holes composed of a plurality of holding holes arranged in a ring. Each holding hole 40a is a portion for accommodating a cuvette. A reagent and a sample are injected into each cuvette in stages. If necessary, a diluent is also injected into each cuvette. An immune reaction occurs in each cuvette. The turntable 39 may be composed of a single ring-shaped member, or may be composed of a plurality of ring-shaped members arranged concentrically.

[0048] In this embodiment, for example, a sample is measured based on a so-called two-step method. The two-step method includes a first immune reaction step using a first reagent containing a first antibody, a second immune reaction step using a second reagent containing a second antibody, an enzyme reaction step using a substrate solution, and a light detection step. The first immune reaction step, the second immune reaction step, and the enzyme reaction step are performed in the reaction unit 14. A diluent is used in the first immune reaction step as needed. The reaction unit 14 also performs a B / F cleaning step, a stirring step, and the like. In the B / F cleaning step, cleaning equipment 70, 72 operate.

[0049] The reagent supply unit 16 has a reagent tank 41 serving as a rotating refrigerator. The reagent tank 41 contains a reagent bottle row 42 and a reagent bottle row 44. The reagent bottle row 42 and the reagent bottle row 44 are each composed of a plurality of reagent bottles. Each reagent bottle is a hard bottle, and contains a reagent. Each reagent used in the first immune reaction step contains a plurality of magnetic particles. Each magnetic particle functions as a solid phase. That is, an antibody layer (or antigen layer) is provided on the surface of each magnetic particle.

[0050] Reagent dispensing mechanisms 30 and 32 are provided adjacent to the reagent supply unit 16 and the reaction unit 14. The reagent dispensing mechanism 30 has a pivoting arm 60 and a nozzle 62 provided at the tip of the arm 60. The reagent dispensing mechanism 32 has a pivoting arm 64 and a nozzle 65 provided at the tip of the arm 64. The nozzles 62 and 65 are each non-replaceable nozzles, i.e., washable nozzles. The reagent dispensing mechanisms 30 and 32 aspirate a specific reagent and dispense the aspirated reagent into a specific cuvette.

[0051] The light detection unit 18 is a unit that detects luminescence generated in the cuvette after the enzyme reaction. The concentration of the analyte and other information are calculated based on the detected value. When the cuvette is transported, cuvette transport mechanisms 24 and 26 function.

[0052] In Figure 2, the front space 94 is a three-dimensional space adjacent to the front of the sample analyzer 10. A user typically accesses the sample analyzer 10 from the front. The front space 94 is the location where the user is present during operation and work, or the space including this location is the front space 94. In this embodiment, as will be described later, reagent bag replacement is performed within the front space 94. Note that the size of the front space 94 (particularly the width in the X direction) in Figure 2 is an example.

[0053] FIG. 3 shows a refrigerator 88 according to an embodiment. The refrigerator 88 has a box-shaped housing 96. The housing 96 has a layer that provides thermal insulation. An outer door 90 is provided on the front side of the housing 96. The outer door 90 rotates around a rotation axis 100. In FIG. 3, the outer door 90 is in a closed state. A cooling unit 102 is provided on the upper surface of the housing 96. In the illustrated example, the cooling unit 102 is composed of two coolers 102A and 102B. Each of the coolers 102A and 102B has a Peltier element. The drain 103 is for draining water generated by condensation.

[0054] Figure 4 shows the interior of the refrigerator 88. An outer door is not shown in Figure 4. Four storage chambers 110 are provided in the housing 96 and aligned in the Y direction. Four cases 104 are housed in the four storage chambers 110.

[0055] Each case 104 is a container or cassette that houses a reagent bag 108. Each case 104 is made of a hard material that does not easily deform, such as resin. The reagent bag 108 consists of a flexible bag body and a spout attached to the bag body. For example, two of the four cases 104 house two reagent bags 108 containing diluent. The remaining two cases 104 house two reagent bags 108 containing substrate solution.

[0056] Each reagent bag 108 can be deformed relatively easily. In contrast, the shape of each case 104 is basically unchanged. When the reagent bag 108 is housed in the case 104, the case 104 protects the reagent bag 108 and limits or prevents deformation of the reagent bag 108 (for example, bending, localized swelling, crushing due to external force, etc.). Within each storage chamber 110, the case 104 is in an inverted state, meaning that the reagent bag 108 is in an inverted state.

[0057] Four guide mechanisms 106 are provided to guide the movement of the four cases 104. Each guide mechanism 106 has a slide mechanism, a rotation mechanism, and a limiting mechanism. The movement of the cases 104 will be described in detail later. In the configuration example shown in Figure 4, the four cases 104 and the four guide mechanisms 106 form four assemblies.

[0058] Each case 104 has an inner lid 122. A notch 122A is formed at the end of the inner lid 122 (the lower end when inverted). A finger is inserted into the notch 122A, and the fingertip is hooked on the underside of the inner lid 122b. In this state, if the fingertip is pulled toward you, the case 104 will slide toward you.

[0059] The housing 96 is provided with a locking mechanism array 112. In the illustrated example, the locking mechanism array 112 is made up of four locking mechanisms. Each locking mechanism includes a solenoid or the like, and its operation is electrically controlled. Each locking mechanism restricts the case 104 from being pulled out while the reagent bag is in use. In other words, each locking mechanism locks the case 104.

[0060] 5 shows a schematic vertical cross section of the refrigerator 88. The case 104 is located in the front space of the sample analyzer and is in an upright position. The case 104 contains a reagent bag 108. The reagent bag 108 has a flexible bag body 118 and a spout 120 attached thereto. The reagent bag 108 may also be called a spout pouch or a spout pouch pack. An engagement structure is provided at the base of the spout 120.

[0061] The case 104 is made up of a case body 114 and a cover 116. As described above, the case 104 is a hard member made of resin or the like. In the illustrated upright position, the case body 114 has a front surface 114a facing forward, a rear surface 114b facing rearward, an upper surface 114c facing upward, and a lower surface 114d facing downward. The case body 114 further has two side surfaces. The front surface 114a is actually the edge of the opening.

[0062] The case body 114 is a hollow member, and the bag body 118 is housed in its internal space. The spout 120 is located outside the case body 114. However, a portion of the engagement structure is located below the upper surface 114c, i.e., inside the case body 114.

[0063] The cover 116 exposes the spout 120 in its open state and covers the spout 120 in its closed state. A connector is provided inside the cover 116, but this is not shown in Figure 5. As indicated by reference numeral 130, the nozzle arrangement and the spout 120 are connected when the cover 116 is closed. On the other hand, as indicated by reference numeral 132, the connector is disengaged from the spout 120 when the cover 116 is opened.

[0064] In the illustrated configuration example, a rotation shaft 126 is provided at or near a corner 127 between the rear surface 114b and the top surface 114c. The case 104 rotates around the rotation shaft 126. The cover 116 rotates (opens and closes) around the rotation shaft 128. In the embodiment, the rotation shaft 126 and the rotation shaft 128 are separate, but they may also be integrated. In the illustrated example, when the case 104 (i.e., the reagent bag 108) is in an upright position, the rotation angle θ is 0°. When the case 104 (i.e., the reagent bag 108) is in an inverted position, the rotation angle θ is 180°. Note that in FIG. 5, the clockwise direction is defined as the positive direction, and the counterclockwise direction is defined as the negative direction.

[0065] As described above, the case 104 includes the inner lid 122. Specifically, the inner lid 122 is fixed to the case 104 via a plurality of support posts 124.

[0066] The guide mechanism 106 includes a slide mechanism 136, a rotation mechanism 138, and a limiting mechanism. The limiting mechanism is not shown in FIG.

[0067] The slide mechanism 136 is composed of a fixed member and a movable member that are engaged with each other. The fixed member is composed of two fixed rails 140, and the movable member is composed of two movable rails 142. From another perspective, the slide mechanism is composed of a first slider and a second slider that are aligned in the Y direction. Each slider is composed of one fixed rail 140 and one movable rail 142. Each fixed rail 140 is fixed to the housing 96. Each movable rail 142 slides in the X direction under the guidance of each fixed rail 140.

[0068] The rotation mechanism 138 guides the rotational movement of the case 104 around the rotation shaft 126. The rotation mechanism 138 has a rotary damper, which will be described later.

[0069] A tube 144 extends from the case 104 and is guided rearward. The tube 144 has a certain amount of slack, and is fixed midway by clips 146 and 148. A plurality of signal lines (not shown) are also drawn out from the case together with the tube 144. The tube 144 and the plurality of signal lines are arranged so that they do not affect the movement of the case 104 and, at the same time, are protected.

[0070] The storage chamber 110 contains an inverted case 104. Reagent is removed from the inverted reagent bag 108. When replacing the reagent bag 108, the user pulls out the inverted case 104 in the horizontal direction. That is, the case 104 slides from the storage position to the pull-out end position. After the case 104 reaches the pull-out end position, the user applies a forward rotation force to the case 104, causing the case 104 to rotate in the forward direction. Finally, the case 104 is brought into an upright position. Then, the cover 116 is opened. This results in the state shown in FIG. 5. In this state, the old reagent bag 108 is removed from the case 104, and a new reagent bag 108 is set in the case 104.

[0071] The user then closes the cover 116. When the user applies a rotational force in the negative direction to the case 104, the case 104 rotates in the negative direction, causing the case 104 to assume an inverted position. The user then pushes the inverted case 104 toward the back. This causes the case 104 to slide from the drawn-out end position to the stored position. Finally, the inverted case 104 is stored in the storage chamber 110.

[0072] As mentioned above, the limiting mechanism is not shown in Fig. 5. The limiting mechanism allows rotational movement of the case 104 in the positive and negative directions when the case 104 is in the drawn-out state, specifically when the current position of the case 104 is at the drawn-out end position. On the other hand, the limiting mechanism limits (specifically prohibits) rotational movement of the case 104 in the positive and negative directions when the current position of the case 104 is at a position other than the drawn-out end position on the slide movement path, i.e., when the current position of the case 104 is within the restricted section. As the limiting mechanism, a mechanism shown in Fig. 18 or the like may be provided.

[0073] 6 shows two rotation shafts 126 and 128. These rotation shafts 126 and 128 are parallel to each other. The rotation shaft 126 is the rotation shaft of the case 104, and the rotation shaft 128 is the rotation shaft of the cover 116. In the illustrated configuration example, the rotation shaft 126 passes through the tip ends of two movable rails 142. The rotation mechanism 138 is specifically a rotary damper 139 that includes a rotation shaft member, that is, a damper hinge.

[0074] 6 shows the x-direction, y-direction, and z-direction defined relative to the case 104. The x-direction is the longitudinal direction, the y-direction is the lateral direction, and the z-direction is the direction parallel to the central axis of the case 104.

[0075] 7 shows the negative rotational movement of the case 104. The braking action of the rotary damper 139 causes the case 104 to slowly rotate downward. A rotary damper that provides a limiting effect during negative rotational movement and does not provide a limiting effect during positive rotational movement may be used.

[0076] 8 shows the cover 116 in an open state. A hinge 150 is provided between the case body 114 and the cover 116. The hinge 150 is for rotating the cover 116 about the rotation axis 128. The hinge 150 has a spring, and the spring applies an elastic force to the cover 116 in the opening direction. Therefore, when no restraining force is acting on the cover 116, the cover 116 is in an open state.

[0077] The case body 114 is a hollow member, and the reagent bag 108 is accommodated in its internal space 152. The case body 114 has an opening 154, and the reagent bag 108 is inserted into the internal space 152 through the opening 154. The case body 114 has a top plate 166, which has a U-shaped groove 170. The groove 170 engages with the engaging structure of the spout 120. A base 164 is provided adjacent to the top plate 166. The base 164 has a passage 168. In FIG. 8, the base 164 has a front edge 164A that protrudes downward. The front edge 164A corresponds to the edge of the opening. A tray 161 is provided on the rear side of the top plate 166.

[0078] A connection portion 160 is provided inside the cover 116. When the cover 116 is in a closed state, the connection portion 160 is coupled to the spout 120. The cover 116 has a lock plate 162. An end 162A of the lock plate 162 has a hook shape.

[0079] When the cover 116 is pushed (see A) to close the cover 116, the end 162A of the locking plate 162 catches on the front edge 164A of the case body 114. This causes the cover 116 to be closed and locked in that closed state. During the process of forming the closed state, the connecting portion 160 is coupled to the spout 120. When the locked state is formed, the coupling between the connecting portion 160 and the spout 120 is also locked. The locking plate 162 and the front edge 164A correspond to a locking structure.

[0080] When the cover 116 is in an open state, there is a possibility that the reagent may drip from the connection part 160. A tray 161 is provided directly below the connection part 160 to catch any dripped reagent.

[0081] The rear end of the cover 116 is cut out at an angle to form a slope 116A. This cutout increases the angle at which the cover 116 hits the inner lid 122 when the cover 116 is opened (i.e., the cover opening angle).

[0082] A gap exists between the plate 158 and the case body 114. A portion of a tube (not shown) is movably housed in the gap, and a portion of a signal wire bundle (not shown) is movably housed in the gap. The plate 158 may function as an electromagnetic shield.

[0083] 9 shows the cover 116 in a closed state. The end 162A of the lock plate 162 is hooked onto the front edge 164A, establishing a locked state. The lock plate 162 is a member that rotates around the rotation axis 163. By pressing part B, the end 162A moves away from the front edge 164A (see C), and the engagement between the end 162A and the front edge 164A is released. Thereafter, the cover 116 naturally closes due to the action of the spring of the hinge.

[0084] 10 shows a vertical cross section of the case body 114. The inside of the cover 116 is not shown.

[0085] The reagent bag 108 has an RF tag (IC tag) as an electronic circuit. The RF tag has an IC chip including a memory, an antenna, etc. The memory stores information such as the reagent ID, manufacturing date, manufactured rod, and remaining amount of reagent.

[0086] An antenna 172 is disposed within the case body 114. The antenna 172 is for wireless communication with the RF tag. A base 174 is provided within the case body 114. A plurality of openings are formed in the base 174. When the spout is held in the case body, there may be a gap between the reagent bag 108 and the base 174. The reagent bag 108 may be placed on the base 174.

[0087] 11 shows a cross section of the case body 114. The antenna 172 is fixed to a frame 178. The frame 178 has a slope 178A that guides the reagent bag 108.

[0088] Next, a method for installing the reagent bag 108 in the case will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0089] 12 shows the state immediately before. The case body 114 has a top plate 166 and a base 164. The top plate 166 has a groove 170, and the base 164 has a passage 168. A height gap G exists between the base 164 and the top plate 166.

[0090] In the reagent bag 108, the spout 120 has an engagement structure. The engagement structure has an upper flange 182 and a lower flange 184 that extend horizontally, and also has an intermediate portion 186 between the upper flange 182 and the lower flange 184. Below the lower flange 184 is a neck portion 188. Reference numeral 180 denotes a cap provided on the spout 120.

[0091] 13 shows the temporary placement state. The lower flange 184 is placed on the base 164. The neck portion is inserted into the passage of the base 164. In this temporary placement state, the height of the middle portion and the height of the groove are the same.

[0092] The installed state is shown in Figure 14. The installed state is achieved by sliding the reagent bag toward the back from the temporary placement state. In the engagement structure of the spout 120, the upper flange 182 is positioned above the top plate 166, and the middle portion 186 is inserted into the groove 170. The lower flange 184 is positioned below the top plate 166. The temporary placement state is easily achieved. The transition from the temporary placement state to the installed state is also easy.

[0093] 15 shows a cross section of the connection portion 160. The cover 116 is in a closed state, that is, the connection portion 160 is connected to the spout 120. The spout 120 is held by the case body 114. The spout 120 has an opening 200, and the opening 200 has a circular opening edge 202 facing upward.

[0094] The connection portion 160 has a frame 192. The frame 192 has a flange 192A that corresponds to a horizontal plate, and a skirt 192B that extends downward from the end of the flange 192A. The frame 192 has a ceiling surface 204 that faces downward, and a cylindrical portion (nozzle) 194 protrudes downward from the ceiling surface 204.

[0095] An opening 200 of the spout 120 is inserted inside the frame 192 and outside the cylindrical portion 194. An opening edge 202 is in close contact with a ceiling surface 204. An O-ring 206 made of an elastic member is provided in the cylindrical portion 194. Specifically, the O-ring 206 is disposed in the gap between the outer surface of the cylindrical portion 194 and the inner surface of the opening 200. The O-ring 206 functions as a sealing member.

[0096] The frame 192 has a conical or cone-shaped funnel 195, and a holder 196 is attached to the end of the funnel 195. The end of a tube is connected to the holder 196. The funnel 195 is provided with two electrodes 208, 210. The interior space of the funnel 195 is a conical space 198. When the case is inverted, the reagent is discharged through the bottom of the conical space 198. The ends of the two electrodes 208, 210 are exposed in the conical space 198. By measuring the resistance, capacitance, etc. between the electrodes 208, 210, it is determined that the liquid level has exceeded a limit level. In other words, it is determined that the remaining amount has reached zero or is below a predetermined amount.

[0097] 15, when the cover 116 is closed, the connection part 160 is securely connected to the spout 120. The locking mechanism described above maintains this connection. Therefore, no liquid leaks when the case is in an inverted position. A structure other than that shown in FIG. 15 may be used as the connection part.

[0098] FIG. 16 shows the movement of the case. Reference numeral 104A indicates the case housed in the storage chamber. As indicated by reference numeral 196, the case slides from the storage position to the pull-out end position. Reference numeral 104B indicates the case before rotation that has reached the pull-out end position. As indicated by reference numerals 104C, 104D, and 104E, the case rotates in the forward direction within the front space 94 (see reference numeral 196). The case then assumes an upright position (see reference numeral 104E). When the case is placed in the storage chamber, the opposite movement to the above movement occurs. In this embodiment, the rotation occurs after the sliding movement is completed.

[0099] Figure 17 shows a variation of the movement. Reference numeral 104F indicates a case housed in a storage chamber. In this variation, sliding and rotational movements are performed simultaneously (see reference numerals 104G to 104L). In this variation, all or part of the rotational movement is also performed within the front space 94. By utilizing the front space 94 as a movement space, it is possible to avoid increasing the size of the refrigerator.

[0100] 18 is a flowchart showing the steps and operations for replacing a reagent bag. In S10, the lock state (restriction on withdrawal) of the case to be replaced is released based on the user's operation or input. At this point, data indicating the remaining amount of reagent at that time may be written to the RF tag.

[0101] In S12, the user pulls out the case. After the case reaches the end of the pull-out position, in S14 the user pulls down the case. The case slowly rotates. Finally, the case reaches the upright position.

[0102] In S16, the user unlocks the cover and opens it. In S18, a cap is attached to the spout of the used reagent bag as needed. In S20, the reagent bag is removed from the case.

[0103] In S22, a new reagent bag is temporarily placed so that its lower flange is on the base. In S24, the reagent bag is set in the case by sliding it toward the back. At this point, in S25, the control unit (see reference numeral 87 in FIG. 1) reads the data in the RF tag. For example, the control unit determines whether the reagent bag is appropriate, i.e., whether it is a usable reagent bag, based on the read data. If the control unit determines that the reagent bag is inappropriate, the control unit executes error processing to notify the user of this situation, specifically, generates an alarm. If the control unit determines that the reagent bag is appropriate, error processing is not executed. The determination of the appropriateness of the reagent bag is preferably performed before closing the cover, and particularly preferably before opening the cap. In S26, the cap is removed from the new reagent bag. In S28, the cover is closed, and the cover is locked again. During this process, the connector is connected to the spout.

[0104] In S30, the user applies a rotational force to the case in the negative direction, causing the case to become upside down. In S32, the user pushes the upside down case back into the storage chamber, placing the case in the storage chamber. In S34, the stored case is again locked.

[0105] 19 to 25, an assembly according to another embodiment will be described. In another embodiment, the refrigerator has, for example, four assemblies 200. Each assembly 200 includes a case 202 and a guide mechanism 204.

[0106] A reagent bag is housed in the case 202. In Fig. 19, the case 202 is at the rear end position in the sliding movement direction (X direction), i.e., at the housed position. More specifically, the case 202 is in an inverted state and housed.

[0107] An inner lid 206 is fixed to the case 202. The inner lid 206 has a notch 206A into which the user's finger can be hooked. A protective member (enclosure) 208 that surrounds the notch 206A is provided on the rear surface of the inner lid 206. A member 210 is also provided on the rear surface of the inner lid 206. An opening 210A surrounded by the member 210 and the inner lid 206 functions as a locking opening. An electromagnetic locking mechanism (not shown) has a locking lever. The lever is inserted into the opening 210A, thereby establishing a locked state.

[0108] The guide mechanism 204 includes a slide mechanism 212, a rotation mechanism 214, and a limiting mechanism 216. The guide mechanism 204 also includes a first catcher 218, a second catcher 220, and a movable part 222.

[0109] The slide mechanism 212 guides the sliding movement of the case 202. The slide mechanism 212 has a fixed member and a movable member that are in an engaged relationship. Specifically, the fixed member consists of two fixed rails aligned in the Y direction. The movable member consists of two movable rails aligned in the Y direction. The two movable rails are held by the two fixed rails so that they can slide.

[0110] The rotation mechanism 214 guides the rotation of the case 202 in the positive and negative directions. The rotation mechanism 214 includes a base fixed to two movable rails and a torque hinge fixed to the base.

[0111] The limiting mechanism 216 has a first protrusion fixed to the case 202, a frame 226 that limits the downward movement of the first protrusion, and a bar 228 that limits the upward movement of the first protrusion. Parts of the first protrusion and the bar 228 are visible in Figure 19. The frame 226 and the bar 228 function as a limiting member or limiting structure.

[0112] The frame 226 and the bar 228 are fixed directly or indirectly to a housing (not shown). The frame 226 and the bar 228 may be fixed to a fixed rail. The cross section of the frame 226 has an L-shaped configuration. That is, the frame 226 has a horizontal plate and a vertical plate. In the illustrated configuration example, the bar 228 is fixed to the vertical plate of the frame 226.

[0113] The first catcher 218 catches the first protrusion when the current position of the case 202 is the storage position, and restricts the sliding movement of the case 202. This allows the storage state of the case 202 to be stably formed. In the illustrated configuration example, the first catcher 218 is fixed to a fixed rail.

[0114] The movable part 222 is provided between the two movable rails and is fixed to the two movable rails. The movable part 222 slides together with the two movable rails, i.e., together with the case 202. The movable part 222 has a second protrusion 224. The first protrusion and the second protrusion 224 have a cylindrical shape. The first protrusion and the second protrusion 224 may be rollers that are free to rotate around a rotation axis.

[0115] The second catcher 220 catches the second protrusion when the case is currently at the extended end position, thereby maintaining the extended state of the two movable rails and preventing them from accidentally moving backward.

[0116] The second catcher 220 has a member 230 having a recess 232 and a leaf spring 234 fixed to the member 230. The second protrusion is accommodated in the recess 232. In this state, the elastic force of the leaf spring acts on the second protrusion, that is, the second protrusion is captured. The configuration of the first catcher 218 is the same as the configuration of the second catcher 220.

[0117] Figure 20 is an enlarged view showing the limiting mechanism 216. In Figure 20, only the outline of the frame 226 is shown. The first protrusion 236 is fixed to the case body 238. The gap between the horizontal plate of the frame 226 and the bar 228 functions as a horizontal movement path for the first protrusion 236. In Figure 20, the first protrusion 236 is captured by the first catcher 218.

[0118] The length of the bar 228 in the X direction is shorter than the length of the frame 226 in the X direction. This creates a vertical passage 240. The vertical passage 240 functions as an exit and an entrance for the first protrusion 236.

[0119] When the current position of the case in the sliding movement direction (X direction) is the drawer end position, the limiting mechanism 216 allows the upward movement of the first protrusion 236 and also allows the first protrusion 236 to enter the limiting mechanism 216. In other words, the limiting mechanism 216 allows the rotational movement of the case only when the current position of the case is the drawer end position.

[0120] Meanwhile, when the current position of the case in the sliding direction is other than the pull-out end position, the limiting mechanism 216 prohibits the upward and downward movement of the first protrusion 236. That is, when the current position of the case in the sliding direction is within the restricted range, the limiting mechanism 216 prohibits the rotational movement of the case.

[0121] A mechanism other than the mechanism shown in Fig. 19 etc. may be provided as the limiting mechanism. For example, the sliding movement and rotational movement of the case may be generated by a mechanism having an electric drive source. In this case, the control unit that controls the drive source may function as the limiting mechanism.

[0122] 21 shows the rotational movement of the case 202. In the sliding movement direction, the case 202 is at the pull-out end position. The second catcher 220 catches the second protrusion 224 of the movable part 222. The first protrusion 236 moves upward through the vertical path 240, that is, the case 202 rotates in the forward direction around the rotation axis 242. Note that in the sliding movement direction, the current position of the case 202 is a position that represents the case 202, specifically, the position of the rotation axis 242.

[0123] As described above, the slide mechanism 212 has two fixed rails 244 and two movable rails 246. The rotation mechanism 214 is fixed to the two movable rails 246 and holds the case 202 rotatably.

[0124] Fig. 22 shows the case 202 in an upright position. In this upright position, the rotation angle of the case 202 is 0 degrees. In the inverted position shown in Fig. 19, the rotation angle of the case 202 is 180 degrees.

[0125] 22, the rotation shaft 242 is at the end of the slide movement, i.e., the case 202 is at the end of the slide movement. However, as a result of the forward rotation of the case 202, the case 202 itself is actually located forward of the two movable rails.

[0126] The case 202 is made up of a case body 238 and a cover 248. The case body 238 and the cover 248 are made of, for example, resin. A lock plate 250 is provided on the cover 248. Specifically, the lock plate 250 is provided so as to be rotatable around a rotation shaft 252. An elastic force is applied to the lock plate 250 in the closing direction. Therefore, the lock plate 250 will not spontaneously open. The lock plate 250 is made of, for example, metal.

[0127] When the lock plate 250 is in the closed state, the lower edge of the lock plate 250 is hooked onto the edge of the opening of the case body 239. This establishes the locked state. Applying a pressing force to the operating portion 254 of the lock plate 250 causes the lock plate 250 to open. This establishes the unlocked state.

[0128] The locking structure may be a structure other than the structure shown in Fig. 22. For example, a mechanism having an electromagnetic solenoid, a mechanism having a screw, or the like may be used.

[0129] 23 shows the cover 248 in an open state. The rotation axis 242 of the case and the rotation axis 256 of the cover 248 are parallel to each other. A plate 251 is fixed to the case body 238. The tube and signal line bundle are housed in the gap between the case body 238 and the plate 251. A recess is formed on the slope of the cover 248 to prevent collision with the protective member 208.

[0130] FIG. 24 shows the movable part 222. Two movable rails 246 are slidably supported by two fixed rails 244. The movable part 222 has metal fittings 258 fixed to the two movable rails 246. A second protrusion is fixed to the metal fittings 258. The two movable rails 246 are interconnected via the metal fittings 258, thereby increasing the rigidity of the sliding mechanism. A proximity sensor 260 is fixed to one of the fixed rails 244. Note that a clip (see reference numeral 146 in FIG. 5) may be provided on the movable part 222, or the movable part 222 may function as a clip. The clip is a member that fixedly or slidably holds the middle portion of the tube and the middle portion of the signal wire bundle. By providing the clip, it is possible to prevent the tube or the signal wire bundle from being pinched and to protect the tube and the signal wire bundle.

[0131] 25 is an enlarged view of the proximity sensor 260. When the case is pushed in and reaches the storage position, the proximity sensor 260 detects the proximity of the lock plate 250. A detection signal from the proximity sensor 260 is sent to a control unit (not shown). The control unit operates the electromagnetic locking mechanism to establish a locked state. In the locked state, the case cannot be removed from the storage chamber. When the user performs a predetermined operation when the reagent bag in the case is not in use, the control unit releases the locked state. This creates an unlocked state. In the unlocked state, the case can be removed.

[0132] The refrigerators according to the above embodiments may be incorporated into cartridge-type sample analyzers. In such sample analyzers, multiple cartridges are used to analyze multiple samples. Each cartridge typically has multiple interconnected reservoirs. The reservoirs function as reagent containers, reaction vessels, etc.

[0133] According to each of the above embodiments, the reagent bag is housed in a case, which prevents the reagent bag from being significantly deformed (e.g., bent) in both the upright and inverted states, and also protects the reagent bag when it is used or replaced. Because the reagent bag is in an inverted state when it is used, the reagent can be naturally removed from the reagent bag by utilizing gravity without inserting a nozzle into the reagent bag. Furthermore, when the reagent bag is replaced, the reagent bag is pulled out and the upright state is restored, which facilitates the reagent bag replacement process.

[0134] Several modifications of the above-described embodiments will now be described. The case may be rotated within the housing. In this case, a guide mechanism having only a rotation mechanism may be employed. The case may be rotated within the housing, and then the upright case may be pulled out toward the user. In this case, a guide mechanism having both a rotation mechanism and a slide mechanism may be employed. In these modifications, the reagent bag is housed within the case, which provides the advantages of suppressing significant deformation of the reagent bag and protecting the reagent bag. In addition, in these modifications, the case can be selectively positioned in an inverted or upright state, which provides the advantages of smoothly removing the reagent by utilizing gravity and facilitating the replacement of the reagent bag. As described above, each of the above-described embodiments includes multiple technical features. Each of the technical features may be employed independently.

[0135] 10 Sample analyzer, 88 Refrigerator, 96 Housing, 104, 202 Case, 106, 204 Guide mechanism, 108 Reagent bag, 110 Storage chamber, 114, 238 Case body, 116, 248 Cover, 136, 212 Slide mechanism, 138, 214 Rotation mechanism, 118 Bag body, 120 Spout, 216 Restriction mechanism.

Claims

1. A sample analyzer comprising: a case for accommodating a reagent bag; a housing having a storage chamber for accommodating said case; and a guide mechanism for guiding a forward rotational movement of said case when it is pulled out from a storage position within said storage chamber, thereby causing said case to be in an upright position, and for guiding a reverse rotational movement of said case before returning said case to said storage position, thereby causing said case to be in an inverted position.

2. A sample analyzer according to claim 1, wherein the guide mechanism causes the case to be in an upright position within the front space of the sample analyzer.

3. A sample analyzer according to claim 1, wherein the guide mechanism includes a slide mechanism that guides the sliding movement of the case, and a rotation mechanism that guides the rotational movement of the case.

4. A sample analyzer according to claim 3, wherein the slide mechanism guides the sliding movement of the case between the storage position and a pull-out end position horizontally spaced therefrom.

5. A sample analyzer according to claim 4, wherein the rotation mechanism guides the rotational movement of the case at the pull-out end position.

6. A sample analyzer according to claim 5, wherein the guide mechanism includes a limiting mechanism that limits the rotational movement of the case when the current position of the case is within a limited section of the slide movement path of the case, and allows the rotational movement of the case when the current position is at the pull-out end position of the slide movement path.

7. A sample analyzer according to claim 6, wherein the restriction mechanism includes a first member fixed to the case, and a restriction member that restricts the up and down movement of the first member when the current position is within the restricted section.

8. A sample analyzer according to claim 7, wherein the slide mechanism includes a fixed member and a movable member that supports the case and is held by the fixed member so that it can slide, and the limiting mechanism includes a first capturer that captures the first member when the current position is at the storage position, a second member fixed to the movable member, and a second capturer that captures the second member when the current position is at the pull-out end position.

9. A sample analyzer according to claim 1, wherein the reagent bag includes a flexible bag body and a spout provided on the bag body, and the case includes a case body that houses the bag body, and a cover that opens and closes relative to the case body, exposing the spout when the cover is open and covering the spout when the cover is closed.

10. A sample analyzer according to claim 9, wherein the case body has a rear surface that faces rearward in the upright position and an upper surface that faces upward in the upright position, and the case rotates around a rotation axis provided at or near the corner between the rear surface and the upper surface.

11. A sample analyzer according to claim 9, wherein the case includes a connection part provided inside the cover, the connection part being connected to the spout when the cover is closed, and the connection part being detached from the spout when the cover is opened.

12. A sample analyzer according to claim 11, wherein the connection section includes a cap having a conical space connected to the suction path, and a detector for managing the remaining amount of reagent, the detector having a detection end that contacts the conical space.

13. A sample analyzer according to claim 9, wherein the case includes a locking structure that spans the case body and the cover and maintains the cover in the closed state.

14. A sample analyzer according to claim 9, wherein the spout has an engagement structure, the engagement structure having upper and lower flanges that are aligned vertically in the upright state, and an intermediate portion provided between the upper and lower flanges, the case body having a groove into which the intermediate portion is inserted, an upper panel on which the upper flange rests in the upright state, and a base provided adjacent to the entrance of the groove and on which the lower flange rests, and wherein when the lower flange is resting on the base, the height of the intermediate portion matches the height of the groove.

15. A sample analyzer according to claim 9, wherein the case body includes an antenna that communicates with an electronic circuit provided in the bag body.

16. A sample analyzer according to claim 9, further comprising a control unit that determines whether the reagent bag is suitable based on data acquired from an electronic circuit provided in the reagent bag.

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