Container storage body and management system

Abstract

Provided are a container storage body and a management system that make it possible to improve container manageability.　A first container storage body 120 is a container storage body for storing a reagent bottle having attached thereto first information-to-be-read IR1 and second information-to-be-read IR2 to be read by a reading unit, and comprises: a first storage body 121 capable of storing the reagent bottle; and a first cover part 122 for hiding, in a storage state in which the reagent bottle is stored in the first storage body 121, only the second information-to-be-read IR2 from the reading unit so that the reading unit reads only the first information-to-be-read IR1, from between the first information-to-be-read IR1 and the second information-to-be-read IR2.

Description

Container housing for containers and management system

[0007] ,

[0005]

[0001] The present invention relates to a container housing for containers and a management system.

[0002] Conventionally, as one of the technologies related to reading information attached to a container for an analytical instrument, after reading the barcode of a tag attached to the container with a reader, it is determined whether the tag is an unnecessary tag based on the data of the read barcode. When it is determined that the tag is an unnecessary tag, a technique of applying black ink to the tag has been proposed (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0003] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2015-133054

[0004] By the way, in recent years, there has been an increasing need to attach a plurality of information to a container and to allow only a part of the plurality of information to be read by a reader according to the situation. However, in the above conventional technology, when it is determined that the tag is an unnecessary tag, black ink is applied to the tag, so that the applied tag cannot be read again by the reader, and thus there is a possibility that it becomes difficult to flexibly read information by the reader according to the situation. Therefore, there was room for improvement from the viewpoint of enhancing the manageability of the container.

[0005] The present invention is for solving the problems in the above conventional technology, and an object thereof is to provide a container housing for containers and a management system capable of enhancing the manageability of the container.

[0006] In order to solve the above-described problems and achieve the object, the container housing for containers according to claim 1 is a container for an analytical instrument, and is a container housing for containers for housing a container to which a plurality of reading target information to be read by a reading means is attached, and includes a housing body capable of housing the container, and cover means for hiding only a part of the plurality of reading target information from the reading means so that only a part of the plurality of reading target information is read by the reading means in a housing state where the container is housed in the housing body.

[0007] The container housing according to claim 2 is the container housing according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of readable information includes first readable information and second readable information located at a different position from the first readable information, and the container housing includes a first housing body which is the housing body body and a first cover means which is the cover means for concealing only the second readable information from the reading means so that only the first readable information is read by the reading means in the housing state in which the container is housed in the first housing body body, or / and a second container housing which includes a second housing body which is the housing body body and a second cover means which is the cover means for concealing only the first readable information from the reading means so that only the second readable information is read by the reading means in the housing state in which the container is housed in the second housing body body.

[0008] The container housing according to claim 3 is the container housing according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of readable information includes first readable information and second readable information located at a different position from the first readable information, and the cover means comprises a cover body and a position adjustment unit for adjusting the position of the cover body, the position adjustment unit comprises a first position adjustment unit that can be detachably attached to the container, and a second position adjustment unit for positioning the cover body in a position that hides only one of the first readable information or the second readable information from the reading means in a first storage state in which the container without the first position adjustment unit attached is stored in the housing body, and for positioning the cover body in a position that hides only the other of the first readable information or the second readable information from the reading means in a second storage state in which the container with the first position adjustment unit attached is stored in the housing body.

[0009] The container housing according to claim 4 is the container housing according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of readable information includes first readable information and second readable information located at a different position from the first readable information, the cover means comprises a cover body, a moving part for moving the cover body, and a moving control unit for controlling the moving part, wherein, in the housing state, when a first reading timing arrives in which only the first readable information is to be read by the reading means, the moving control unit moves the cover body to a position in which only the second readable information is to be hidden from the reading means, and when a second reading timing arrives in which only the second readable information is to be read by the reading means, the moving control unit moves the cover body to a position in which only the first readable information is to be hidden from the reading means.

[0010] The container housing according to claim 5 is the container housing according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of readable information includes a first readable information, a second readable information located at a different position from the first readable information, and a third readable information located at a different position from the first and second readable information, and the cover means comprises a first cover body capable of concealing the first and second readable information from the reading means, a second cover body capable of concealing the second and third readable information from the reading means, a first moving part for moving the first cover body, a second moving part for moving the second cover body, and a moving control unit for controlling the first and second moving parts, wherein the moving control unit controls the housing state In this state, when a first reading timing arrives in which only the first information to be read is to be read by the reading means, the first cover body and the second cover body are moved to a position in which only the second information to be read and the third information to be read can be hidden from the reading means. When a second reading timing arrives in which only the second information to be read is to be read by the reading means, the first cover body and the second cover body are moved to a position in which only the first information to be read and the third information to be read can be hidden from the reading means. When a third reading timing arrives in which only the third information to be read is to be read by the reading means, the first cover body and the second cover body are moved to a position in which only the first information to be read and the second information to be read can be hidden from the reading means.

[0011] The container holder according to claim 6 is the container holder according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the container is a reagent bottle for storing a reagent, and the container holder is a reagent holder for movably holding the container.

[0012] The management system according to claim 7 is a management system for managing a container to which a plurality of read target information is attached, to be read by a reading means, comprising: a container housing according to any one of claims 1 to 5; an acquisition means for acquiring at least a portion of the read target information from the reading means when at least a portion of the read target information is read by the reading means; a determination means for determining whether the at least a portion of the read target information acquired by the acquisition means is correct or incorrect; and a processing means for executing a corresponding process corresponding to the determination result of the determination means.

[0013] The container housing described in claim 1 comprises a housing body and a cover means for concealing only some of the multiple pieces of information to be read from the reading means, so that only some of the multiple pieces of information to be read can be read by the reading means when the container is in a housing state. Compared to the conventional technology (a technology in which black ink is applied to a tag when it is determined to be an unnecessary tag), the reading means can flexibly read the information to be read depending on the situation, thereby improving the manageability of the container.

[0014] According to the container housing described in claim 2, the container housing includes a first container housing comprising a first housing body and a first cover means for concealing only the second information to be read from the reading means so that only the first information to be read can be read by the reading means when the container is housing, or / or a second container housing comprising a second housing body and a second cover means for concealing only the first information to be read from the reading means so that only the second information to be read can be read by the reading means when the container is housing. Therefore, if only one of the first container housing or the second container housing is included, only one of the first information to be read or the second information to be read can be read by the reading means, and the reading means can avoid being mistakenly read by the other of the first information to be read or the second information to be read. Furthermore, if the system includes a first container and a second container, the reading means can read only one of the first or second target information depending on how the first and second containers are used, thus avoiding the reading means mistakenly reading the other of the first or second target information.

[0015] According to the container housing described in claim 3, the position adjustment unit comprises a first position adjustment unit and a second position adjustment unit for positioning the cover body in a position where, in the first housing state, only one of the first information to be read or the second information to be read is hidden from the reading means, and in the second housing state, only the other of the first information to be read or the second information to be read is hidden from the reading means. Therefore, depending on whether the first position adjustment unit is attached to the container, only one of the first information to be read or the second information to be read can be made to read by the reading means, and the reading means can avoid being mistakenly made to read the other of the first information to be read or the second information to be read.

[0016] According to the container housing described in claim 4, the moving control unit moves the cover body to a position where only the second information to be read is hidden from the reading means when the first reading timing arrives in the housing state, and moves the cover body to a position where only the first information to be read is hidden from the reading means when the second reading timing arrives. Therefore, depending on the difference in reading timing, only one of the first information to be read or the second information to be read can be read by the reading means, and the reading means can avoid being mistakenly read by the other of the first information to be read or the second information to be read.

[0017] According to the container housing described in claim 5, the moving control unit moves the first cover body and the second cover body to a position where only the second and third information to be read can be hidden from the reading means when the first reading timing arrives in the housing state, moves the first cover body and the second cover body to a position where only the first and third information to be read can be hidden from the reading means when the second reading timing arrives, and moves the first cover body and the second cover body to a position where only the first and second information to be read can be hidden from the reading means when the third reading timing arrives. Therefore, depending on the difference in reading timing, only one of the first, second, or third information to be read can be read by the reading means, and the remaining information of the first, second, or third information to be read can be avoided from being mistakenly read by the reading means.

[0018] According to the container housing described in claim 6, the container is a reagent bottle, and the container housing is a reagent holder. Therefore, while housing the reagent bottle, the reading of the information to be read by the reading means can be flexibly performed according to the situation, thereby improving the manageability of the reagent bottle.

[0019] The management system according to claim 7 includes a container body according to any one of claims 1 to 5, an acquisition means for acquiring at least some of the information to be read from a plurality of pieces of information to be read by the reading means, a determination means for determining whether the information to be read is correct or incorrect, and a processing means for executing corresponding processing. Therefore, corresponding processing can be executed according to the determination result of the determination means, and the manageability of the container can be further improved.

[0020] This is a plan view showing an overview of the analytical apparatus according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. This is a perspective view showing a reagent bottle. This is a perspective view showing the first container housing, where (a) shows the state with the reagent bottle housed inside, and (b) shows the state without the reagent bottle housed inside. This is a perspective view showing the second container housing, where (a) shows the state with the reagent bottle housed inside, and (b) shows the state without the reagent bottle housed inside. This is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the first control unit. This is a flowchart of the management process according to Embodiment 1. This is a perspective view showing the container housing according to Embodiment 2. This is an exploded perspective view of Figure 7. This is a perspective view showing the second operation of the container housing (partially omitted from illustration). This is a flowchart of the management process according to Embodiment 2. This is a front view showing the container housing according to Embodiment 3, where the cover body is in the first movement position. This is a front view showing the container housing, where the cover body is in the second movement position. This is a flowchart of the management process according to Embodiment 3. This is a front view showing the container housing according to Embodiment 4, where the first cover body and the second cover body are in the first movement position. This is a front view showing a container housing, in which the first cover body and the second cover body are located in the second movement position. This is a front view showing a container housing, in which the first cover body and the second cover body are located in the third movement position. This is a flowchart of the management process according to Embodiment 4. This is a side view showing a container housing according to Embodiment 5, in which the reading unit is located in the first movement position. This is a side view showing a container housing, in which the reading unit is located in the second movement position. This is a flowchart of the management process according to Embodiment 5. This is a side view showing a container housing according to Embodiment 6, in which the reading unit reads the information to be read. This is a flowchart of the management process according to Embodiment 6. This is a diagram showing a modified example of the container housing according to Embodiment 3, where (a) is a front view and (b) is a plan view (partially omitted from illustration). This is a diagram showing a modified example of the container housing according to Embodiment 5, where (a) is a front view and (b) is a plan view (partially omitted from illustration). This figure shows a modified example of a container body according to Embodiment 5, where (a) shows the state in which the reading unit is reading the first information to be read, and (b) shows the state in which the reading unit is reading the second information to be read.

[0021] The embodiments of the container housing and management system according to the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings. First, the basic concept of the [I] embodiment will be explained, then the specific details of the [II] embodiment will be explained, and finally, modifications of the [III] embodiment will be explained. However, the present invention is not limited by the embodiments.

[0022] [I] Basic Concepts of the Embodiment First, the basic concepts of the embodiment will be explained. The embodiment is, in general terms, a container for an analytical device, which contains a container with multiple pieces of information to be read by a reading means attached to it, and a management system.

[0023] Here, "analytical device" refers to a device used to analyze a sample in a reaction vessel, as described later, in the reaction line described later. This analytical device is a concept that includes, for example, an automated analyzer for separating, identifying, and analyzing a target substance, but in this embodiment, it will be described as an automated analyzer for performing analysis of a sample using CLEIA (Chemiluminescent Enzyme Immunoassay), which uses an enzyme-labeled substance and a luminescent substrate.

[0024] Furthermore, the term "specimen" encompasses a broader concept that includes biological samples such as saliva, urine, sputum, and blood, as well as culture media for cells (such as established mammalian cell lines), bacteria (such as E. coli), and viruses (such as phages).

[0025] Furthermore, the term "information to be read" is a concept that includes, for example, code information (such as QR code information (registered trademark), barcode information), information other than code information (such as characters, symbols, figures, or combinations thereof), RFID information, etc., but in this embodiment, it will be explained as QR code information.

[0026] Furthermore, "attached" can refer to, for example, being affixed, being written on with ink or a marker, or being engraved on the container itself, but in this embodiment, it will be described as being affixed.

[0027] Furthermore, the term "container" is a concept that includes, for example, reagent bottles for containing reagents, sample containers for containing samples, or reaction vessels for containing reactants, but in this embodiment, it will be described as a reagent bottle.

[0028] Furthermore, the concept of container types includes, for example, holders for holding reagent bottles, sample containers, or reaction vessels. However, in this embodiment, it will be described as a holder for movably holding reagent bottles (hereinafter referred to as "reagent holder").

[0029] [II] Specific details of the embodiment Next, the specific details of the embodiment will be described.

[0030] [Embodiment 1] First, a container housing and management system according to Embodiment 1 will be described. In this Embodiment 1, the container housing includes a first container housing and a second container housing, which will be described later.

[0031] (Configuration) First, the configuration of the analytical apparatus to which the container and management system according to Embodiment 1 are applied will be described.

[0032] In the following explanation, the X direction in Figure 1 will be referred to as the left-right direction of the analyzer (-X direction is the left direction of the analyzer, and +X direction is the right direction of the analyzer), the Y direction in Figure 1 will be referred to as the front-back direction of the analyzer (+Y direction is the front direction of the analyzer, and -Y direction is the rear direction of the analyzer), and the Z direction in Figure 2 will be referred to as the up-down direction of the analyzer (+Z direction is the up direction of the analyzer, and -Z direction is the down direction of the analyzer).

[0033] As shown in Figure 1, the analytical apparatus 1 sequentially transports reaction vessels C3 (for example, resin containers) for reacting the sample and reagents to multiple predetermined locations, performs various predetermined operations at each of these locations to perform the analysis, and discards the reaction vessels C3 after the analysis.

[0034] As shown in Figure 1, this analytical apparatus 1 includes a reaction vessel supply unit 10, a reagent storage unit 20, a sample storage unit 30, a tip supply unit 42, a reaction vessel transport unit 50, a reagent dispensing unit 60, a sample dispensing unit 70, a reaction tank 80, a tip collection unit 92, a photometric unit 101, a state detection unit 103, a management system 110, a first control unit 140, and a second control unit 150.

[0035] Furthermore, to explain the connection configuration of each part in this analytical apparatus 1, specifically, each of the functional units such as the reaction vessel supply unit 10, reagent storage unit 20, sample storage unit 30, reaction vessel transport unit 50, reagent dispensing unit 60, sample dispensing unit 70, reaction vessel 80, photometric unit 101, state detection unit 103, and management system 110 are connected to the first control unit 140 via wiring (for example, electrical wiring or optical cables, etc.) not shown, and can be operated under the control of the first control unit 140.

[0036] Furthermore, a "functional unit" refers to a unit necessary to realize each function of the analytical device 1, and includes, for example, a unit that operates under the control of the first control unit 140 using sensors, actuators, etc.

[0037] (Configuration - Reaction Vessel Supply Unit) The reaction vessel supply unit 10 is a reaction vessel storage and alignment means for storing and aligning multiple reaction vessels C3 before use, and is configured using, for example, a known parts feeder.

[0038] (Configuration - Reagent Storage Section) The reagent storage section 20 is a reagent storage means for storing reagent bottles C1 (for example, magnetic particle liquid bottles, labeled body solution bottles, sample diluent bottles, etc.) for containing reagents at a predetermined temperature. This reagent storage section 20 is constructed using, for example, a known reagent refrigerator, and specifically, as shown in Figure 1, it comprises a housing 21, a holding tray 22, a drive unit (not shown), a lid (not shown), and a reading unit 23.

[0039] (Configuration - Reagent Storage Section - Housing) The housing 21 is a protective means that protects each part of the reagent storage section 20 and the reagent bottles C1 stored in the reagent storage section 20 from the outside, and is also a means that insulates the reagents from the outside temperature in order to store them at a predetermined temperature. This housing 21 is formed, for example, as a hollow cylindrical body made of resin or metal with an open top.

[0040] (Configuration - Reagent Storage Section - Holding Tray) The holding tray 22 holds the container housing R described later and rotates around a rotation axis (not shown) that runs vertically, thereby transporting the reagent bottle C1 to be read to the reading section 23 or to the reagent dispensing section when dispensing reagents. This holding tray 22 is constructed using, for example, a known transport-type holding tray (for example, a plate-shaped holding tray), and as shown in Figure 1, it is housed in the housing 21 and rotatably fixed to the lower surface of the housing 21 by a fixing member.

[0041] (Configuration - Reagent Storage Section - Drive Section) The drive section is a driving means for rotating the holding tray 22. This drive section is configured using, for example, a known driving means (one example being a motor or a stepper motor) and is provided in the vicinity of the holding tray 22 within the housing 21.

[0042] (Configuration - Reagent Storage Section - Lid Section) The lid section allows the open end (specifically, the upper end) of the housing 21 to be opened and closed. This lid section is constructed using, for example, a known lid (for example, a shutter-type lid that can be opened and closed horizontally (or vertically)), and is positioned near the open end of the housing 21 and attached to the housing 21 so as to be openable and closable.

[0043] (Configuration - Reagent Storage Section - Reading Section) The reading section 23 is a reading means for reading the information to be read attached to the reagent bottle C1. This reading section 23 is configured using, for example, a known reading device (one example being a reader capable of reading QR code information) and is housed in the housing 21.

[0044] However, this is not limited to this configuration. For example, the reading unit 23 may be located on the outside of the housing 21, and the housing 21 may be provided with a window for the reading unit 23 to read the information to be read.

[0045] Also, although the reading range of the reading unit 23 is arbitrary, in the first embodiment, it is set to a range that can read two pieces of reading target information IR.

[0046] Note that the "reading target information IR" means information that is the target of reading by the reading unit 23.

[0047] Although the specific configuration of this reading target information IR is arbitrary, in the first embodiment, it is described as being composed of QR code information including model type information that uniquely identifies the model of the analyzer 1, reagent type information indicating the type of reagent, expiration date information indicating the expiration date of the reagent, lot number information indicating the lot number of the reagent, analysis item information indicating the analysis items related to the reagent, and a plurality of basic calibration curve information, where the basic calibration curve information indicates the basic calibration curve (data that forms the basis of the calibration curve obtained by measuring a standard substance with a known concentration for each lot of the reagent) related to the reagent during the manufacturing process of the reagent.

[0048] (Configuration - Reagent Bottle) Here, the reagent bottle C1 stored in the reagent storage unit 20 is configured using, for example, a resin or glass container, and as shown in FIG. 2, includes a bottle main body C11 and a bottle lid portion C12.

[0049] (Configuration - Reagent Bottle - Bottle Main Body) The bottle main body C11 is the basic structure of the reagent bottle C1 and is formed as a hollow body with a rectangular annular cross-sectional shape.

[0050] Also, on the upper surface of this bottle main body C11, a bottle opening (not shown) for taking in and out the reagent is provided.

[0051] Also, a plurality of reading target information IR is attached to the front surface of the bottle main body C11.

[0052] Specifically, the multiple readable information IRs include a first readable information IR1 and a second readable information IR2 located at a different position from the first readable information IR1. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 2, the first readable information IR1 and the second readable information IR2 are arranged with a gap between them along the vertical direction (more specifically, the first readable information IR1 is positioned above the second readable information IR2) (the same applies to the first readable information IR1 and the second readable information IR2 in embodiments 2, 3, and 5).

[0053] (Configuration - Reagent Bottle - Bottle Lid) The bottle lid C12 is for sealing the bottle opening. This bottle lid C12 is formed, for example, as a hollow body with an open bottom, and as shown in Figure 2, it is positioned near the bottle opening and is detachably attached to the bottle body C11.

[0054] (Configuration - Specimen Storage Unit) Returning to Figure 1, the specimen storage unit 30 is a specimen storage means for storing a plurality of specimen containers C2 (for example, known test tube-shaped containers), and is configured using a known storage unit that houses a plurality of specimen racks R, each holding at least one specimen container C2, by a specimen dispensing unit 70, or also has the function of transporting specimens to a position where they can be aspirated.

[0055] (Configuration - Chip supply unit) The chip supply unit 42 is a chip receiving and aligning means for receiving and aligning multiple chip units, which will be described later, before use, and is configured using, for example, a known parts feeder.

[0056] (Configuration - Reaction Vessel Transport Unit) The reaction vessel transport unit 50 is a reaction vessel transport means for transporting the reaction vessel C3, which is housed in the reaction vessel supply unit 10, to the reaction line 81 of the reaction tank 80. It is configured using, for example, a known transport mechanism that can move in a three-dimensional direction, and as shown in Figure 1, it is located near the reaction vessel supply unit 10 and the reaction tank 80.

[0057] (Configuration - Reagent Dispensing Unit) The reagent dispensing unit 60 is for dispensing reagents from reagent bottles C1 stored in the reagent storage unit 20 to reaction vessels C3 that have been transported to the reaction line 81 of the reaction vessel 80. This reagent dispensing unit 60 is configured using a known dispensing device (for example, a dispensing device that combines a known robot arm using a stepper motor, etc. with a suction and discharge mechanism using a pump) equipped with a dispensing nozzle that can move in a three-dimensional direction (not shown; hereinafter referred to as "reagent dispensing nozzle"), and as shown in Figure 1, it is located in the vicinity of the reagent storage unit 20 and the reaction vessel 80.

[0058] (Configuration - Sample Dispensing Unit) The sample dispensing unit 70 is for dispensing samples from sample containers C2 stored in the sample storage unit 30 to reaction vessel C3 located on the reaction line 81 of the reaction vessel 80. As shown in Figure 1, the sample dispensing unit 70 is located in the vicinity of the sample storage unit 30 and the reaction vessel 80.

[0059] Furthermore, the sample dispensing unit 70 is configured using, for example, a known dispensing device, and specifically comprises a dispensing nozzle (hereinafter referred to as "sample dispensing nozzle") and a sample dispensing syringe that discharges or aspirates a sample into the sample dispensing nozzle via a sample dispensing channel (not shown) (neither is shown).

[0060] In this case, there is a risk that the tip (lower end) of the sample dispensing nozzle may become contaminated by the discharge or aspiration of the sample from the sample dispensing nozzle. To avoid this problem, in Embodiment 1, a tip portion (not shown) is provided on the sample dispensing nozzle.

[0061] The tip portion is formed from, for example, a resin tip (a pipette tip, for instance), and is detachably attached to the nozzle for dispensing samples.

[0062] (Configuration - Reaction Vessel) The reaction vessel 80 is a vessel for reacting samples and reagents in multiple reaction vessels C3. As shown in Figure 1, the reaction vessel 80 is equipped with a reaction line 81, a washing section 83, and a substrate dispensing section 84.

[0063] (Configuration - Reaction Vessel - Reaction Line) The reaction line 81 is a reaction means for reacting the sample and reagents in a plurality of reaction vessels C3. This reaction line 81 is constructed using, for example, a known transport-type reaction line (for example, an annular reaction line).

[0064] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 1, the reaction line 81 is provided with a plurality of holes 81a for detachably accommodating the reaction vessel C3 from above.

[0065] (Configuration - Reaction Vessel - Washing Unit) The washing unit 83 applies magnetic force from an external magnet to the reaction vessel C3, collects the magnetic particle reagent and the immunocomplex bound to it on the inner surface of the reaction vessel C3, dispenses a predetermined washing solution into the reaction vessel C3, and repeats the operation of aspirating (an operation related to so-called "B / F separation"), thereby washing the inner surface of the reaction vessel C3 while leaving the magnetic particle reagent and the immunocomplex bound to it that have been collected on the inner surface of the reaction vessel C3. As shown in Figure 1, at least one of these washing units 83 is provided in the vicinity of the reaction line 81.

[0066] (Configuration - Reaction Vessel - Substrate Dispensing Unit) Returning to Figure 1, the substrate dispensing unit 84 dispenses the substrate (substrate solution) supplied from the substrate solution tank (not shown) into the reaction vessel C3 via a pump (not shown). This substrate dispensing unit 84 is configured using, for example, a known dispensing device, and is located near the reaction line 81, as shown in Figure 1.

[0067] (Configuration - Tip Removal Outer Part) The tip removal outer part 92 is a tip removal means for removing the tip attached to the sample dispensing nozzle of the sample dispensing unit 70. As shown in Figure 1, this tip removal outer part 92 is located near the tip supply unit 42.

[0068] Furthermore, the tip removal outer casing 92 is constructed using, for example, a known removal tool. Specifically, as shown in Figure 1, the tip removal outer casing 92 comprises an inverted L-shaped tip removal outer casing body 92a and a rectangular tip-side notch 92b formed on the upper side piece of the tip removal outer casing body 92a.

[0069] (Configuration - Photometric Unit) The photometric unit 101 measures the amount of chemiluminescence of the product of the enzymatic reaction. This photometric unit 101 is configured using, for example, a known photometric device (for example, a photometric device capable of counting the number of photons using a photomultiplier tube), and is located near the reaction line 81, as shown in Figure 1.

[0070] (Configuration - State Detection Unit) The state detection unit 103 is a state detection means that detects whether the chip unit is attached. This state detection unit 103 is configured using, for example, a known sensor (for example, an imaging means such as a camera), and is provided in the vicinity of the reaction line 81, as shown in Figure 1.

[0071] (Configuration - Management System) The management system 110 is for managing containers (specifically, reagent bottles C1) that have multiple readable information IRs attached to them, and as shown in Figure 1, it is equipped with only one of either the first container container 120 or the second container container 130 corresponding to the model of the analyzer 1 (that is, in order to prevent the first container container 120 and the second container container 130 from being mixed in the analyzer 1, the container container contains only one of either the first container container 120 or the second container container 130).

[0072] (Configuration - Management System - First Container Compartment) The first container compartment 120 is a container compartment for accommodating the reagent bottle C1. As shown in Figure 1, this first container compartment 120 is housed within the reagent storage section 20 and comprises a first compartment body 121 and a first cover section 122, as shown in Figure 3.

[0073] (Configuration - Management System - First Container - First Container Body) The first container body 121 is a container body capable of accommodating the reagent bottle C1. This first container body 121 is formed of a hollow body made of resin (or steel) with an open top.

[0074] Specifically, as shown in Figure 3(b), the first housing body 121 comprises a first left side portion 121a located on the left side, a first right side portion 121b located on the right side, a first front side portion 121c located on the front side, a first rear side portion 121d located on the rear side, and a first bottom side portion 121e located on the bottom side.

[0075] Furthermore, while the specific size of the first containment body 121 is arbitrary, in Embodiment 1 it is set as follows.

[0076] In other words, the length of the first left side portion 121a in the front-to-back direction is set to be slightly longer than the length of the reagent bottle C1 in the front-to-back direction.

[0077] Furthermore, the vertical length of the first left side portion 121a is set to be shorter than the vertical length of the reagent bottle C1. For example, it may be set to less than half the vertical length of the reagent bottle C1.

[0078] Furthermore, the length of the first right side portion 121b in the front-rear direction is set to be the same as the length of the first left side portion 121a in the front-rear direction.

[0079] Furthermore, the vertical length of the first right side portion 121b is set to be the same as the vertical length of the first left side portion 121a.

[0080] Furthermore, the length of the first front side portion 121c in the left-right direction is set to be slightly longer than the length of the reagent bottle C1 in the left-right direction.

[0081] Furthermore, the vertical length of the first front side portion 121c is set to be the same as the vertical length of the first left side portion 121a.

[0082] Furthermore, the length of the first rear side portion 121d in the left-right direction is set to be the same as the length of the first front side portion 121c in the left-right direction.

[0083] Furthermore, the vertical length of the first rear side portion 121d is set to be the same as the vertical length of the first front side portion 121c.

[0084] Furthermore, the length of the first bottom side portion 121e in the left-right direction is set to be the same as the length of the first front side portion 121c in the left-right direction.

[0085] Furthermore, the length of the first bottom side portion 121e in the front-rear direction is set to be the same as the length of the first left side portion 121a in the front-rear direction.

[0086] (Configuration - Management System - First Container - First Cover) The first cover 122 is a covering means for concealing only some of the other parts of the multiple read target information IRs from the reading unit 23 so that only some of the multiple read target information IRs can be read by the reading unit 23 when the reagent bottle C1 is housed in the first container body 121 (hereinafter referred to as the "first housing state"), and is also a first covering means for concealing only the second read target information IR2 from the reading unit 23 so that only the first read target information IR1 can be read by the reading unit 23 in the first housing state.

[0087] As shown in Figure 3, this first cover portion 122 is integrally formed with the first front side portion 121c of the first housing body 121.

[0088] Here, the specific configuration of the first cover portion 122 is arbitrary, but in Embodiment 1, it is configured as follows.

[0089] In other words, the length of the first cover portion 122 in the left-right direction is set to a length that allows the second information to be read, IR2, to be covered by the first cover portion 122 in the first storage state.

[0090] Specifically, as shown in Figure 3(a), it is set to be longer than the left-right length of the second target information IR2.

[0091] Furthermore, the vertical length of the first cover portion 122 is set such that, in the first housing state, the reading portion 23 cannot read the second information to be read IR2, so that the first information to be read IR1 is not covered by the first cover portion 122, but the second information to be read IR2 is covered by the first cover portion 122.

[0092] Specifically, as shown in Figure 3(a), the length of the upper end of the first cover portion 122 is set to be slightly below the upper end of the second readable information IR2 attached to the reagent bottle C1.

[0093] However, this is not limited to this, and for example, the length of the upper end of the first cover portion 122 may be set to be above the upper end of the second readable information IR2 attached to the reagent bottle C1.

[0094] With this first container housing 120, compared to the conventional technology (a technology that applies black ink to a tag if it is determined to be an unnecessary tag), the reading unit 23 can flexibly read the target information IR according to the situation, thereby improving the manageability of the reagent bottle C1.

[0095] Furthermore, it is possible to have the reading unit 23 read only the first target information IR1, thus avoiding the reading unit 23 mistakenly reading the second target information IR2.

[0096] (Configuration - Management System - Second Container Compartment) Returning to Figure 1, the second container compartment 130 is a container compartment for accommodating the reagent bottle C1. As shown in Figure 1, this second container compartment 130 is housed within the reagent storage section 20 and comprises a second compartment body 131 and a second cover section 132, as shown in Figure 4.

[0097] (Configuration - Management System - Second Container - Second Container Body) The second container body 131 is a container body capable of accommodating the reagent bottle C1. This second container body 131 is formed, for example, from a hollow body made of resin (or steel) with an open top.

[0098] Specifically, as shown in Figure 4(b), the second housing body 131 includes a second left side portion 131a located on the left side, a second right side portion 131b located on the right side, a second front side portion 131c located on the front side, a second rear side portion 131d located on the rear side, and a second bottom side portion 131e located on the bottom side.

[0099] Furthermore, while the specific size of the second housing body 131 is arbitrary, in Embodiment 1 it is set as follows.

[0100] In other words, the length of the second left side portion 131a in the front-to-back direction is set to be slightly longer than the length of the reagent bottle C1 in the front-to-back direction.

[0101] Furthermore, the vertical length of the second left side portion 131a is set to be shorter than the vertical length of the reagent bottle C1, and to become shorter towards the rear.

[0102] For example, the maximum vertical length of the second left side portion 131a may be set to be longer than half the vertical length of the reagent bottle C1, and the minimum vertical length of the second left side portion 131a may be set to be less than half the vertical length of the reagent bottle C1.

[0103] However, this is not limited to this, and for example, the vertical length of the second left side portion 131a may be uniform and set to be longer than half the vertical length of the reagent bottle C1.

[0104] Furthermore, the length of the second right side portion 131b in the front-rear direction is set to be the same as the length of the second left side portion 131a in the front-rear direction.

[0105] Furthermore, the vertical length of the second right side portion 131b is set to be the same as the vertical length of the second left side portion 131a.

[0106] Furthermore, the length of the second front side portion 131c in the left-right direction is set to be slightly longer than the length of the reagent bottle C1 in the left-right direction.

[0107] Furthermore, the vertical length of the second front side portion 131c is set to be shorter than the vertical length of the reagent bottle C1, and as an example, it may be set to be longer than half the vertical length of the reagent bottle C1.

[0108] Furthermore, the length of the second rear side portion 131d in the left-right direction is set to be the same as the length of the second front side portion 131c in the left-right direction.

[0109] Furthermore, the vertical length of the second rear side portion 131d is set to be shorter than the vertical length of the reagent bottle C1, and also shorter than the vertical length of the second front side portion 131c.

[0110] Furthermore, the length of the second bottom side portion 131e in the left-right direction is set to be the same as the length of the second front side portion 131c in the left-right direction.

[0111] Furthermore, the length of the second bottom side portion 131e in the front-to-back direction is set to be the same as the length of the second left side portion 131a in the front-to-back direction.

[0112] (Configuration - Management System - Second Container - Second Cover Section) The second cover section 132 is a covering means for concealing only some of the other read target information IRs from the reading section 23 so that only some of the read target information IRs from the multiple read target information IRs can be read by the reading section 23 when the reagent bottle C1 is housed in the second container body 131 (hereinafter referred to as the "second housing state"), and is also a second covering means for concealing only the first read target information IR1 from the reading section 23 so that only the second read target information IR2 can be read by the reading section 23 in the second housing state.

[0113] As shown in Figure 4, this second cover portion 132 is integrally formed with the second front side portion 131c of the second housing body 131.

[0114] Here, the specific configuration of the second cover portion 132 is arbitrary, but in Embodiment 1 it is configured as follows.

[0115] In other words, the length of the second cover portion 132 in the left-right direction is set to a length that allows the first information to be read IR1 (or the second information to be read IR2) to be covered by the second cover portion 132 in the second storage state.

[0116] Specifically, as shown in Figure 4(a), it is set to be longer than the left-right length of the first information to be read IR1 (or the second information to be read IR2).

[0117] Furthermore, the vertical length of the second cover portion 132 is set to a length that allows the first information to be read IR1 and the second information to be read IR2 to be covered by the second cover portion 132, so that the reading portion 23 cannot read the first information to be read IR1 in the second housing state.

[0118] Specifically, as shown in Figure 4(a), the length of the second cover portion 132 is set so that the upper end is slightly above the upper end of the second read target information IR2 attached to the reagent bottle C1.

[0119] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 4, the second cover portion 132 is provided with an exposure opening 133 for exposing the second information to be read, IR2, to the outside.

[0120] The length of this exposed opening 133 in the left-right direction is set to be the same as or longer than the length of the second read target information IR2 in the left-right direction.

[0121] Furthermore, the vertical length of the exposed opening 133 is set to be the same as or longer than the vertical length of the second readable information IR2.

[0122] Furthermore, regarding the arrangement of the exposed opening 133, as shown in Figure 4(a), in the second housing state, the exposed opening 133 is positioned so that it faces the second read target information IR2.

[0123] With this second container housing 130, similar to the first container housing 120, the reading unit 23 can flexibly read the information IR to be read according to the situation, compared to the conventional technology described above, thereby improving the manageability of the reagent bottle C1. Furthermore, only the second information IR2 to be read can be made to be read by the reading unit 23, thus avoiding the reading unit 23 mistakenly reading the first information IR1 to be read.

[0124] (Configuration - First Control Unit) Returning to Figure 1, the first control unit 140 is the first control means for controlling each part of the analyzer 1. Specifically, this first control unit 140 is a computer configured with a CPU, various programs interpreted and executed on the CPU (including basic control programs such as the OS, and application programs launched on the OS to realize specific functions, etc.), and internal memory such as RAM for storing various data (the same applies to the control unit body of the second control unit 150, which will be described later).

[0125] Furthermore, the first control unit 140, in terms of its functional concept, includes an acquisition unit 141, a determination unit 142, and a processing unit 143, as shown in Figure 5.

[0126] Although the acquisition unit 141, the determination unit 142, and the processing unit 143 are components of the "management system" in the claims, for the sake of explanation, they will be described as being located in the first control unit 140.

[0127] The acquisition unit 141 is an acquisition means for acquiring at least some of the multiple read target information IRs from the reading unit 23 when at least some of the read target information IRs are read by the reading unit 23.

[0128] The determination unit 142 is a determination means for determining whether at least a portion of the read target information IR acquired by the acquisition unit 141 is correct or incorrect.

[0129] The processing unit 143 is a processing means for executing the corresponding processing.

[0130] Here, "correspondence processing" refers to processing that corresponds to the determination result of the determination unit 142.

[0131] This corresponding process includes, for example, performing calibration measurements of reagents corresponding to the IR information to be read acquired by the acquisition unit 141 (measuring several standard substances of known concentrations), creating a calibration curve based on the results of the calibration measurements and the basic calibration curve information contained in the IR information to be read, calculating the concentration of the substance to be measured based on the created calibration curve, outputting error information indicating that the IR information to be read acquired by the acquisition unit 141 is incorrect, and / or outputting information to the reading unit 23 that instructs the reading unit 23 to control the re-reading of the IR information to be read (hereinafter referred to as "re-read instruction information").

[0132] Further details of the processing performed by this first control unit 140 will be described later.

[0133] (Configuration - Second Control Unit) Returning to Figure 1, the second control unit 150 is a second control means that communicates with the first control unit 140 and controls the first control unit 140. As shown in Figure 1, the second control unit 150 is electrically connected to the first control unit 140 via wiring 2 and includes an operation unit, a communication unit, an output unit, a control unit body, and a storage unit (all of which are not shown).

[0134] Of these, the operation unit is an operating means that receives operation input to the second control unit 150.

[0135] Furthermore, the communication unit is a communication means for communicating with the first control unit 140 and external devices (not shown) (for example, a host device for a Laboratory Information System (LIS)).

[0136] Furthermore, the output unit is an output means that outputs various types of information based on the control of the second control unit 150, and is configured using, for example, known display means, printing means, or audio output means.

[0137] Furthermore, the control unit body is the main body of the second control unit 150.

[0138] Furthermore, the storage unit stores programs and various data necessary for the operation of the first control unit 140 and the second control unit 150, and is configured using a known rewritable recording medium. For example, a rewritable non-volatile recording medium such as flash memory can be used.

[0139] With such an analytical device 1, the sample in the reaction vessel C3 can be automatically analyzed in the reaction line 81.

[0140] Furthermore, since the management system 110 includes only one of the first container housing 120 or the second container housing 130, the reading unit 23 can read only one of the first information to be read IR1 or the second information to be read IR2, thus avoiding the reading unit 23 mistakenly reading the other of the first information to be read IR1 or the second information to be read IR2.

[0141] Furthermore, since the first container housing 120 or the second container housing 130 is a reagent holder for movably holding the reagent bottle C1, the reading unit 23 can flexibly read the target information IR while housing the reagent bottle C1, depending on the situation, thereby improving the manageability of the reagent bottle C1.

[0142] (Management Process) Next, the management process performed in the analytical apparatus 1 configured as described above will be explained.

[0143] In the following explanation, the step will be abbreviated as "S" in the description of each process shown in Figure 6.

[0144] The management process is for managing reagent bottle C1, which has multiple readable information IRs attached to it.

[0145] The timing of executing this management process is arbitrary, but in Embodiment 1, it will be described as being started after the power to the analyzer 1 is turned on.

[0146] Furthermore, regarding the premise of the management process, in Embodiment 1, the reagent storage unit 20 is described as containing multiple first container containers 120 or second container containers 130 corresponding to the model of the analyzer 1, with only one of either the first container containers 120 in the first storage state or the second container containers 130 in the second storage state being stored.

[0147] When the management process is activated, as shown in Figure 6, the acquisition unit 141 in SA1 determines whether or not the timing has arrived for the reading unit 23 to read only the information IR to be read (hereinafter referred to as the "first reading timing").

[0148] The method for determining whether or not this first reading timing has arrived is arbitrary, but for example, it may be determined based on whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed, whether or not a predetermined operation has been received via the operation unit of the second control unit 150, or whether or not a reading instruction information has been received from an external device instructing to read the information IR to be read.

[0149] Here, if the above-mentioned predetermined time has elapsed, if the above-mentioned predetermined operation has been accepted, or if the above-mentioned read instruction information has been received, it may be determined that the first read timing has arrived. If the above-mentioned predetermined time has not elapsed, if the above-mentioned predetermined operation has not been accepted, or if the above-mentioned read instruction information has not been received, it may be determined that the first read timing has not arrived.

[0150] The acquisition unit 141 then waits until it is determined that the first reading timing has arrived (SA1, No), and if it is determined that the first reading timing has arrived (SA1, Yes), it proceeds to SA2.

[0151] In SA2, the acquisition unit 141 acquires the information to be read, IR, from the reading unit 23.

[0152] The method for acquiring the information to be read IR is optional, but in Embodiment 1, when SA2 is processed, if only the first information to be read IR1 (or second information to be read IR2) attached to the reagent bottle C1 contained in the first container container 120 (or second container container 130) located closest to the reading unit 23 among the first container containers 120 (or second container container 130) contained in the reagent storage unit 20 is read by the reading unit 23, the acquired information is obtained by receiving the read first information to be read IR1 (or second information to be read IR2) from the reading unit 23.

[0153] In this case, when the first read-only information IR1 attached to the reagent bottle C1 housed in the first container 120 is read by the reading unit 23, the second read-only information IR2 is hidden by the first cover unit 122, thus preventing the second read-only information IR2 from being read incorrectly.

[0154] Furthermore, when the second read-only information IR2 attached to the reagent bottle C1 housed in the second container 130 is read by the reading unit 23, the first read-only information IR1 is hidden by the second cover unit 132, thus preventing the first read-only information IR1 from being read incorrectly.

[0155] In SA3, the determination unit 142 determines whether the information IR to be read, acquired in SA2, is correct or incorrect.

[0156] The method for determining the validity of the information IR to be read is arbitrary, but in Embodiment 1, the determination is made based on whether the model type information included in the information IR to be read acquired by SA2 matches the model type information acquired by a predetermined method (hereinafter referred to as "reference model type information").

[0157] Here, if the information IR to be read acquired by SA2 matches the above-mentioned standard model type information, it is determined that the information IR to be read is correct. If the information does not match the above-mentioned standard model type information (for example, if a first container housing 120 (or second container housing 130) that does not correspond to the model of the analyzer 1 is mistakenly stored in the reagent storage unit 20), it is determined that the information IR to be read acquired by SA2 is incorrect.

[0158] The method for obtaining the standard model type information is optional, but for example, the standard model type information may be obtained from the memory unit of the second control unit 150 that has been stored in advance. Alternatively, it may be obtained by receiving input of the standard model type information via the operation unit of the second control unit 150. Alternatively, it may be obtained by receiving the standard model type information from an external device.

[0159] Then, the determination unit 142 determines that the information to be read IR acquired in SA2 is correct (SA3, Yes), and proceeds to SA4, and determines that the information to be read IR acquired in SA2 is incorrect (SA3, No), and proceeds to SA5.

[0160] In SA4, the processing unit 143 executes the first corresponding process, and then proceeds to SA6.

[0161] Here, "first corresponding process" refers to the corresponding process in SA3 that corresponds to the result in which the information IR to be read, acquired in SA2, is determined to be correct.

[0162] Furthermore, although the processing content of the first corresponding process is arbitrary, in Embodiment 1 it is executed as follows.

[0163] Specifically, first, the processing unit 143 uses known methods to perform calibration measurements of reagents corresponding to the IR information to be read acquired by SA2, utilizing various components of the analyzer 1 (for example, the reagent storage unit 20, the reagent dispensing unit 60, the reaction vessel 80, the photometric unit 101, etc.).

[0164] Next, the processing unit 143 uses a known method to create a calibration curve based on the results of the calibration measurement and the basic calibration curve information contained in the reading target information IR acquired by SA2.

[0165] Then, the processing unit 143 calculates the concentration of the object to be measured based on the calibration curve created above, using a known method.

[0166] In SA5, the processing unit 143 executes the second corresponding process, and then proceeds to SA6.

[0167] Here, "second response processing" refers to the response processing in SA3 that corresponds to the result of determining that the information IR to be read, acquired in SA2, is incorrect.

[0168] Furthermore, although the processing content of the second corresponding process is arbitrary, in Embodiment 1, the processing unit 143 outputs error information in SA3 indicating that the information IR to be read acquired in SA2 is incorrect.

[0169] In SA6, the first control unit 140 determines whether or not the timing for ending the management process (hereinafter referred to as the "end timing") has arrived.

[0170] The method for determining whether or not this termination timing has arrived is arbitrary, but for example, it may be determined based on whether or not a predetermined operation has been received via the operation unit of the second control unit 150, or whether or not termination instruction information instructing the termination of the management process has been received from an external device.

[0171] Here, if the above-mentioned predetermined operation is accepted or the above-mentioned termination instruction information is received, it is determined that the termination timing has arrived. If the above-mentioned predetermined operation is not accepted or the above-mentioned termination instruction information is not received, it is determined that the termination timing has not arrived.

[0172] Then, if the first control unit 140 determines that the termination timing has arrived (SA6, Yes), it terminates the management process. On the other hand, if it determines that the termination timing has not arrived (SA6, No), it proceeds to SA1, and the processing from SA1 to SA6 is repeated until it is determined in SA6 that the termination timing has arrived.

[0173] This management process allows for corresponding processing based on the determination result of the determination unit 142, further improving the manageability of the reagent bottle C1.

[0174] (Effects of Embodiment 1) As described above, Embodiment 1 includes a container body and a cover means for concealing only some of the other parts of the multiple

[0175] Furthermore, the container housing includes a first container housing 120 comprising a first housing body 121 and a first cover portion 122 for concealing only the second read target information IR2 from the reading portion 23 so that only the first read target information IR1 is read by the reading portion 23 when the container is housing it, or a second container housing 130 comprising a second housing body 131 and a second cover portion 132 for concealing only the first read target information IR1 from the reading portion 23 so that only the second read target information IR2 is read by the reading portion 23 when the container is housing it. Thus, only one of the first read target information IR1 or the second read target information IR2 can be read by the reading portion 23, and the reading portion 23 can notify the other of the first read target information IR1 or the second read target information IR2 of the same name of the reading portion 23 of the reading.

[0176] Furthermore, since the container is a reagent bottle C1 and the container housing is a reagent holder, the reading unit 23 can flexibly read the target information IR while housing the reagent bottle C1, depending on the situation, thereby improving the manageability of the reagent bottle C1.

[0177] Furthermore, the container includes a container body, an acquisition unit 141 for acquiring at least some of the multiple readable information IRs from the reading unit 23 when at least some of the readable information IRs are read by the reading unit 23, a determination unit 142 for determining whether the at least some of the readable information IRs acquired by the acquisition unit 141 are correct, and a processing unit 143 for executing corresponding processing. Therefore, corresponding processing can be executed according to the determination result of the determination unit 142, further improving the manageability of the container.

[0178] [Embodiment 2] Next, a container housing and management system according to Embodiment 2 will be described. In this Embodiment 2, the container housing is equipped with a position adjustment unit described later. However, unless otherwise specified, the configuration of this Embodiment 2 is the same as that of Embodiment 1, and for components that are the same as those in Embodiment 1, the same reference numerals and / or names used in this Embodiment 1 will be used as necessary, and their descriptions will be omitted.

[0179] (Configuration) First, the configuration of the analytical apparatus to which the container and management system according to Embodiment 2 are applied will be described.

[0180] The analytical apparatus 1 according to Embodiment 2 is configured identically to the analytical apparatus 1 according to Embodiment 1. However, the configuration of the management system 110 has been modified as described below.

[0181] (Configuration - Management System) The management system 110 includes a container housing 200.

[0182] (Configuration - Management System - Container Compartment) The container compartment 200 is housed within the reagent storage section 20 and comprises a compartment body 210 and a cover section 220, as shown in Figures 7 and 8.

[0183] (Configuration - Management System - Container - Container Body) The container body 210 is capable of accommodating the reagent bottle C1 and, as shown in Figure 8, comprises a main body portion 211 and a container cover portion 212.

[0184] (Configuration - Management System - Container - Container Body - Body Section) The body section 211 is the basic structure of the container body 210. This body section 211 is formed, for example, from a hollow body made of resin (or steel) with an open top.

[0185] Specifically, as shown in Figure 8, the main body portion 211 includes a left main body surface portion 211a located on the left side, a right main body surface portion 211b located on the right side, a front main body surface portion 211c located on the front side, a rear main body surface portion 211d located on the rear side, and a bottom main body surface portion 211e located on the bottom side.

[0186] Furthermore, while the specific size of the main body 211 is arbitrary, in Embodiment 2 it is set as follows.

[0187] In other words, the length of the left main body surface 211a in the front-to-back direction is set to be longer than the length of the reagent bottle C1 in the front-to-back direction.

[0188] Furthermore, the vertical length of the left main body surface 211a is set to be shorter than the vertical length of the reagent bottle C1.

[0189] Furthermore, the length of the right main body surface 211b in the front-to-back direction is set to be the same as the length of the left main body surface 211a in the front-to-back direction.

[0190] Furthermore, the vertical length of the right main body surface 211b is set to be the same as the vertical length of the left main body surface 211a.

[0191] Furthermore, the length of the front main body surface portion 211c in the left-right direction is set to be longer than the length of the reagent bottle C1 in the left-right direction.

[0192] Furthermore, the vertical length of the front main body surface 211c is set to be the same as the vertical length of the left main body surface 211a.

[0193] Furthermore, the length of the rear main body surface 211d in the left-right direction is set to be longer than the length of the reagent bottle C1 in the left-right direction, and shorter than the length of the front main body surface 211c in the left-right direction.

[0194] Furthermore, the vertical length of the rear main body surface 211d is set to be the same as the vertical length of the left main body surface 211a.

[0195] Furthermore, the length of the bottom body surface 211e in the left-right direction is set to be longer than the length of the reagent bottle C1 in the left-right direction, and to become shorter towards the rear.

[0196] Furthermore, the length of the bottom body surface 211e in the front-to-back direction is set to be the same as the length of the left body surface 211a in the front-to-back direction.

[0197] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 8, the main body portion 211 is provided with a main body side exposed opening 211f, a first guide portion 211g, a second guide portion 211h, a third guide portion 211i, a first movement restricting portion 211j, a second movement restricting portion 211k, and a third movement restricting portion 211l.

[0198] (Configuration - Management system - Container housing - Housing body - Main body section - Main body side exposed opening) The main body side exposed opening 211f is for exposing the information IR to be read to the outside, and as shown in Figure 8, it is provided on the front main body surface section 211c.

[0199] The specific configuration of the exposed opening 211f on the main body side is arbitrary, but in Embodiment 2 it is configured as follows.

[0200] In other words, the length of the exposed opening 211f on the main body side in the left-right direction is set to be longer than the length of the first information to be read IR1 (or the second information to be read IR2) in the left-right direction.

[0201] Furthermore, the vertical length of the exposed opening 211f on the main unit side is set to be longer than the sum of the vertical lengths of the first information to be read IR1 and the second information to be read IR2.

[0202] Furthermore, regarding the arrangement of the main body side exposed opening 211f, as shown in Figure 7, in the first housing state (or the second housing state described later), the main body side exposed opening 211f is positioned so that it faces the first read target information IR1 and the second read target information IR2.

[0203] (Configuration - Management system - Container housing - Housing body - Main body section - First guide section) Returning to Figure 8, the first guide section 211g is for guiding the first position adjustment section 223, which will be described later. As shown in Figure 8, this first guide section 211g is provided on the left main body surface 211a and the right main body surface 211b of the main body section 211, and is formed by making a part of the left main body surface 211a (or the right main body surface 211b) concave.

[0204] Specifically, the first guide portion 211g is formed to extend vertically along the range of movement of the first position adjustment portion 223, described later, on the left main body surface portion 211a (or the right main body surface portion 211b), and is formed so that the first position adjustment portion 223, described later, can be fitted into it.

[0205] (Configuration - Management system - Container housing - Housing body - Main body section - Second guide section) The second guide section 211h is for guiding the first cam section 225 of the second position adjustment section 224, which will be described later. As shown in Figure 8, the second guide section 211h is provided so as to communicate with the first guide section 211g on each of the left main body surface section 211a and the right main body surface section 211b of the main body section 211, and is formed by making a part of the left main body surface section 211a (or the right main body surface section 211b) concave.

[0206] Specifically, the second guide portion 211h is formed to extend vertically along the range of movement of the first cam portion 225 of the second position adjustment portion 224, described later, on the left main body surface portion 211a (or the right main body surface portion 211b), and is formed to allow insertion of the projection portion 225a of the first cam portion 225, described later.

[0207] (Configuration - Management system - Container housing - Housing body - Main body section - Third guide section) The third guide section 211i is for guiding the second cam section 226 of the second position adjustment section 224, which will be described later. As shown in Figure 8, this third guide section 211i is provided at the upper ends of the left main body surface section 211a and the right main body surface section 211b of the main body section 211, and at the left end (or right end) of the bottom main body surface section 211e, and is formed as a projection that protrudes outward.

[0208] Specifically, the third guide portion 211i is formed to extend along the front-rear direction over the range in which the second cam portion 226, described later, moves at the upper end (or lower end) of each of the left main body surface portion 211a and the right main body surface portion 211b.

[0209] (Configuration - Management system - Container housing - Housing body - Main body section - First movement restricting section) The first movement restricting section 211j is for restricting the movement of the cover body 221 of the cover section 220, which will be described later. As shown in Figure 8, this first movement restricting section 211j is provided at the upper end of the front main body surface section 211c and the front end of the bottom main body surface section 211e of the main body section 211, and is formed as a protruding body that extends outward.

[0210] (Configuration - Management system - Container housing - Housing body - Main body section - Second movement limiting section) The second movement limiting section 211k is for limiting the movement of the first cam section 225 of the second position adjustment section 224, which will be described later. As shown in Figure 8, this second movement limiting section 211k is provided across the left end, right end, and rear end of the bottom main body surface section 211e of the main body section 211, and is formed as a protruding body that extends outward.

[0211] (Configuration - Management system - Container housing - Housing body - Main body section - Third movement limiting section) The third movement limiting section 211l is for limiting the movement of the second cam section 226 of the second position adjustment section 224, which will be described later. As shown in Figure 8, this third movement limiting section 211l is provided on the left main body surface section 211a and the right main body surface section 211b of the main body section 211 (in Figure 8, two are arranged side by side in the vertical direction with a gap between them in the central part of the front-rear direction of the left main body surface section 211a (or the right main body surface section 211b), and is formed as a projection that protrudes outward.

[0212] (Configuration - Management system - Container housing - Housing body - Housing cover) The housing cover 212 is for covering the main body 211. This housing cover 212 is formed, for example, from a hollow body made of resin (or steel) with an open top.

[0213] Specifically, as shown in Figure 8, the housing cover portion 212 includes a left cover surface portion 212a located on the left side, a right cover surface portion 212b located on the right side, a front cover surface portion 212c located at the front, a rear cover surface portion 212d located at the rear, and a bottom cover surface portion 212e located at the bottom.

[0214] Furthermore, while the specific size of the housing cover portion 212 is arbitrary, in Embodiment 2 it is set as follows.

[0215] In other words, the length of the left cover surface portion 212a in the front-to-back direction is set to be longer than the length of the main body portion 211 in the front-to-back direction.

[0216] Furthermore, the vertical length of the left cover surface 212a is set to be shorter than the vertical length of the reagent bottle C1, and longer than the vertical length of the main body 211.

[0217] Furthermore, the length of the right cover surface 212b in the front-to-back direction is set to be the same as the length of the left cover surface 212a in the front-to-back direction.

[0218] Furthermore, the vertical length of the right cover surface 212b is set to be the same as the vertical length of the left cover surface 212a.

[0219] Furthermore, the length of the front cover surface 212c in the left-right direction is set to be longer than the length of the front main body surface 211c of the main body 211 in the left-right direction.

[0220] Furthermore, the vertical length of the front cover surface 212c is set to be the same as the vertical length of the left cover surface 212a.

[0221] Furthermore, the length of the rear cover surface 212d in the left-right direction is set to be longer than the length of the rear main body surface 211d of the main body 211, and shorter than the length of the front cover surface 212c in the left-right direction.

[0222] Furthermore, the vertical length of the rear cover surface 212d is set to be the same as the vertical length of the left cover surface 212a.

[0223] Furthermore, the length of the bottom cover surface 212e in the left-right direction is set to be longer than the length of the main body 211 in the left-right direction, and to become shorter towards the rear.

[0224] Furthermore, the length of the bottom cover surface 212e in the front-to-back direction is set to be the same as the length of the left cover surface 212a in the front-to-back direction.

[0225] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 8, the housing cover portion 212 is provided with a cover-side exposed opening 212f and an insertion opening 212g.

[0226] (Configuration - Management system - Container housing - Housing body - Housing cover - Cover side exposed opening) The cover side exposed opening 212f is for exposing the information IR to be read to the outside, and as shown in Figure 8, it is provided on the front cover surface 212c.

[0227] The specific configuration of the cover-side exposed opening 212f is arbitrary, but in Embodiment 2, it is configured in the same way as the body-side exposed opening 211f of the main body portion 211.

[0228] However, this is not limited to the above. For example, the length of the cover-side exposed opening 212f in the left-right direction may be different from the length of the main body-side exposed opening 211f in the left-right direction, or the length of the cover-side exposed opening 212f in the up-down direction may be different from the length of the main body-side exposed opening 211f in the up-down direction.

[0229] (Configuration - Management system - Container housing - Housing body - Housing cover part - Insertion opening) The insertion opening 212g is for inserting the first position adjustment part 223, which will be described later, and as shown in Figure 8, it is provided at the upper ends of the left cover surface part 212a and the right cover surface part 212b, at positions corresponding to the first guide part 211g.

[0230] (Configuration - Management System - Container - Cover) The cover 220 is a covering means for concealing only some of the multiple readable information IRs from the reading unit 23 so that only some of the multiple readable information IRs are read by the reading unit 23 when the reagent bottle C1 is housed in the container body 210. As shown in Figure 8, it comprises a cover body 221 and a position adjustment unit 222.

[0231] (Configuration - Management System - Container - Cover Section - Cover Body) The cover body 221 is the basic structure of the cover section 220. This cover body 221 is formed of a resin (or steel) plate-like body, for example, having a U-shape with its planar shape open towards the rear, and is provided on the main body section 211 of the container body 210.

[0232] Specifically, as shown in Figure 7, the cover body 221 is fitted into the main body portion 211 from the front such that a portion of the exposed opening 211f on the main body side is covered by the cover body 221.

[0233] Furthermore, although the specific configuration of the cover body 221 is arbitrary, in the second embodiment, it is configured so that in the first accommodating state described later, only the second information to be read IR2 is covered, and in the second accommodating state described later, only the first information to be read IR1 is covered.

[0234] Specifically, the length of the cover body 221 in the left-right direction is set to be longer than the length of the first information to be read IR1 (or the second information to be read IR2) in the left-right direction, and slightly longer than the length of the front body surface portion 211c of the housing body 210 in the left-right direction.

[0235] Furthermore, the vertical length of the cover body 221 is set to be longer than the vertical length of the first information to be read IR1 (or the second information to be read IR2), and shorter than the vertical length of the front body surface portion 211c.

[0236] (Configuration - Management system - Container housing - Cover section - Position adjustment section) The position adjustment section 222 is for adjusting the position of the cover body 221, and as shown in Figure 8, it includes a first position adjustment section 223 and a second position adjustment section 224.

[0237] (Configuration - Management system - Container housing - Cover section - Position adjustment section - First position adjustment section) The first position adjustment section 223 is detachably attached to the reagent bolt. This first position adjustment section 223 is formed of a plate-like body made of resin (or steel), for example, and as shown in Figure 8, it is provided on the left and right sides of the bottle body C11 of the reagent bottle C1, and is detachably connected to the bottle body C11 by a fixing device or fitting structure, etc.

[0238] Furthermore, while the specific configuration of the first position adjustment unit 223 is arbitrary, in Embodiment 2, it is configured to be fitted so as to be vertically movable with respect to the first guide unit 211g of the housing body 210.

[0239] Specifically, the length of the first position adjustment section 223 in the front-to-back direction is set to be slightly shorter than the length of the first guide section 211g in the front-to-back direction.

[0240] Furthermore, the vertical length of the first position adjustment section 223 is set to be the same as the vertical length of the first guide section 211g.

[0241] Furthermore, the thickness (length in the left-right direction) of the first position adjustment section 223 is set to be the same as the depth (length in the left-right direction) of the first guide section 211g.

[0242] Furthermore, regarding the arrangement of the first position adjustment unit 223, in the second housing state described later, the first position adjustment unit 223 is positioned so that the entire first position adjustment unit 223 is fitted into the first guide unit 211g.

[0243] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 8, the left and right surfaces of the first position adjustment section 223 are each provided with a meshing portion 223a for engaging with the projection 225a of the first cam portion 225 of the second position adjustment section 224, which will be described later. This meshing portion 223a is formed by making a part of the first position adjustment section 223 concave, and is located near the lower ends of the left and right surfaces of the first position adjustment section 223.

[0244] (Configuration - Management system - Container housing - Cover section - Position adjustment section - Second position adjustment section) The second position adjustment section 224 is for positioning the cover section 221 in a position where only one of the first read target information IR1 or the second read target information IR2 can be hidden from the reading section 23 in a housing state in which a reagent bottle C1 without the first position adjustment section 223 is housed in the housing body 210 (hereinafter referred to as the "first housing state"), and for positioning the cover section 221 in a position where only the other of the first read target information IR1 or the second read target information IR2 can be hidden from the reading section 23 in a housing state in which a reagent bottle C1 with the first position adjustment section 223 is housed in the housing body 210 (hereinafter referred to as the "second housing state").

[0245] As shown in Figure 8, the second position adjustment unit 224 includes a first cam portion 225 and a second cam portion 226.

[0246] (Configuration - Management system - Container housing - Cover part - Position adjustment part - Second position adjustment part - First cam part) The first cam part 225 is part of the basic structure of the second position adjustment part 224. This first cam part 225 is formed of a resin (or steel) plate-like body, for example, having a U-shape with a planar shape that is open towards the front, and is provided on the main body part 211 of the housing body 210.

[0247] Specifically, the first cam portion 225 is fitted into the rear of the main body portion 211 in such a position that the rear main body surface portion 211d of the main body portion 211 is covered by the first cam portion 225, and the projections 225a provided at the front ends of the left and right pieces of the first cam portion 225 can engage with the engagement portion 223a of the first position adjustment portion 223 via the second guide portion 211h.

[0248] (Configuration - Management system - Container housing - Cover part - Position adjustment part - Second position adjustment part - Second cam part) The second cam part 226 is another part of the basic structure of the second position adjustment part 224. This second cam part 226 is formed of a plate-like body made of resin (or steel) with a triangular side shape, for example, and is provided on the left main body surface part 211a and the rear main body surface part 211d of the main body part 211 of the housing body body 210.

[0249] Specifically, the second cam portion 226 is positioned such that the left main body surface portion 211a (or the right main body surface portion 211b) of the main body portion 211 is covered by the second cam portion 226, and the third movement limiting portion 211l is inserted through each of the two insertion slots 226a provided in the second cam portion 226.

[0250] With this container housing 200, similar to the container housing according to Embodiment 1, the reading unit 23 can flexibly read the target information IR according to the situation, compared to the conventional technology (a technology in which black ink is applied to the tag when it is determined to be an unnecessary tag), thereby improving the manageability of the reagent bottle C1.

[0251] Furthermore, depending on whether the first position adjustment unit 223 is attached to the reagent bottle C1, only one of the first read target information IR1 or the second read target information IR2 can be read by the reading unit 23, thus avoiding the reading unit 23 mistakenly reading the other of the first read target information IR1 or the second read target information IR2.

[0252] (Function of the container body) Next, the function of the container body 200 configured as described above will be explained.

[0253] The functions of this container housing 200 can be broadly divided into functions relating to the first housing state (hereinafter referred to as the "first function") and functions relating to the second housing state (hereinafter referred to as the "second function").

[0254] Furthermore, the above-mentioned various operations are explained assuming that, when the reagent bottle C1 is not housed in the container body 210, the cover body 221 of the cover portion 220 is positioned to abut against the first movement limiting portion 211j provided on the bottom body surface portion 211e of the container body 210, the first cam portion 225 of the second position adjustment portion 224 is located at the upper end of the body portion 211 of the container body 210, and the front end of the insertion elongated hole 226a of the second cam portion 226 of the second position adjustment portion 224 is positioned to abut against the third movement limiting portion 211l.

[0255] (Function of the container body - First function) First, the first function will be explained.

[0256] For example, if a reagent bottle C1 without the first position adjustment unit 223 attached is moved from above to below the housing body 210 in an attempt to house the reagent bottle C1 in the housing body 210, the projection 225a of the first cam portion 225 of the second position adjustment unit 224 will not engage with the engagement portion 223a of the first position adjustment unit 223. Therefore, the first cam portion 225 of the second position adjustment unit 224 will not move downward as the reagent bottle C1 moves. Consequently, the second cam portion 226 of the second position adjustment unit 224 will not move forward, and therefore the cover body 221 will not move upward.

[0257] Then, when the reagent bottle C1 is completely housed in the container body 210, the first housing state is achieved, and only the second information to be read, IR2, is covered by the cover body 221.

[0258] This allows the reading unit 23 to read only the first information to be read, IR1, in the first storage state.

[0259] (Function of the container body - Second function) Next, the second function will be explained.

[0260] For example, when attempting to house a reagent bottle C1, to which the first position adjustment unit 223 is attached, into the housing body 210 by moving it from above to below, the projection 225a of the first cam portion 225 of the second position adjustment unit 224 engages with the engagement portion 223a of the first position adjustment unit 223. As shown in Figure 9, the first cam portion 225 of the second position adjustment unit 224 moves downward as the reagent bottle C1 moves. As the first cam portion 225 moves, the second cam portion 226 of the second position adjustment unit 224 moves forward, and as the second cam portion 226 moves, the cover body 221 moves upward.

[0261] Subsequently, when the reagent bottle C1 is fully housed in the container body 210, resulting in the second housing state, only the first read target information IR1 will be covered by the cover body 221.

[0262] This allows the reading unit 23 to read only the second target information IR2 in the second storage state.

[0263] (Management Process) Next, the management process performed in the analytical apparatus 1 configured as described above will be explained.

[0264] Regarding the management process according to Embodiment 2, the processes SB1, SB3 to SB6 in Figure 10 are the same as the processes SA1, SA3 to SA6 in Figure 6, so the explanation of the processes SB1, SB3 to SB6 in Figure 10 will be omitted.

[0265] Furthermore, regarding the premise of the management process, in Embodiment 2, it will be explained that the reagent storage section 20 contains multiple containers 200 in a first state of storage and multiple containers 200 in a second state of storage.

[0266] As shown in Figure 10, in SB2, the acquisition unit 141 acquires the information to be read, IR, from the reading unit 23.

[0267] The method for acquiring the information to be read IR is optional, but in Embodiment 2, when SB2 is processed, if only the first information to be read IR1 (or the second information to be read IR2) attached to the reagent bottle C1 contained in the container container 200 in the first storage state (or the container container 200 in the second storage state) that is closest to the reading unit 23 among the container containers 200 contained in the reagent storage unit 20 is read by the reading unit 23, the acquired information is obtained by receiving the read first information to be read IR1 (or the second information to be read IR2) from the reading unit 23.

[0268] In this case, when the reading unit 23 reads the first information to be read IR1 attached to the reagent bottle C1 housed in the container housing 200 in the first state, the cover body 221 of the cover unit 220 hides the second information to be read IR2, thus preventing the second information to be read IR2 from being read incorrectly.

[0269] Furthermore, when the second read target information IR2 attached to the reagent bottle C1 housed in the container body 200 in the second storage state is read by the reading unit 23, the first read target information IR1 is hidden by the cover body 221, thus preventing the first read target information IR1 from being read incorrectly.

[0270] This management process allows for corresponding processing according to the determination result of the determination unit 142, similar to the management process in Embodiment 1, thereby further improving the manageability of the reagent bottle C1.

[0271] (Effects of Embodiment 2) As described above, according to Embodiment 2, the position adjustment unit 222 includes a first position adjustment unit 223 and a second position adjustment unit 224 for positioning the cover body 221 in a position where, in the first storage state, only one of the first information to be read IR1 or the second information to be read IR2 is hidden from the reading unit 23, and in the second storage state, only the other of the first information to be read IR1 or the second information to be read IR2 is hidden from the reading unit 23. Therefore, depending on whether the first position adjustment unit 223 is attached to the container or not, only one of the first information to be read IR1 or the second information to be read IR2 can be made to be read by the reading unit 23, and the reading unit 23 can not be made to be mistakenly made to read the other of the first information to be read IR1 or the second information to be read IR2.

[0272] [Embodiment 3] Next, a container housing and a management system according to Embodiment 3 will be described. In this Embodiment 3, the container housing is equipped with a movable part and a movable control unit, which will be described later. However, unless otherwise specified, the configuration of this Embodiment 3 is the same as that of Embodiment 2, and for components that are the same as those in Embodiment 2, the same reference numerals and / or names used in this Embodiment 2 will be used as necessary, and their descriptions will be omitted.

[0273] (Configuration) First, the configuration of the analytical apparatus to which the container housing and management system according to Embodiment 3 are applied will be described.

[0274] The analytical apparatus 1 according to Embodiment 3 is configured identically to the analytical apparatus 1 according to Embodiment 2. However, the configuration of the management system 110 has been modified as described below.

[0275] (Configuration - Management System) The management system 110 is equipped with a container housing 300.

[0276] (Configuration - Management System - Container Compartment) The container compartment 300 is housed within the reagent storage section 20 and comprises a compartment body 310 and a cover section 320, as shown in Figures 11 and 12.

[0277] (Configuration - Management System - Container - Container Body) The container body 310 according to Embodiment 3 is configured identically to the container body 210 according to Embodiment 2 (however, the first guide portion 211g, the second guide portion 211h, the third guide portion 211i, the first movement restricting portion 211j, the second movement restricting portion 211k, the third movement restricting portion 211l, and the insertion opening 212g are omitted).

[0278] (Configuration - Management system - Container housing - Cover section) As shown in Figure 11, the cover section 320 comprises a cover body 321, a movable section 322, and a control unit (not shown).

[0279] (Configuration - Management System - Container - Cover Section - Cover Body) The cover body 321 is formed from a plate-like body made of resin (or steel) with a rectangular front shape, for example, and is provided to cover a part of the exposed opening 211f on the body side of the container body 310.

[0280] Furthermore, although the specific configuration of the cover body 321 is arbitrary, in the third embodiment, the cover body 321 is configured such that when it is in the first movement position described later, it can cover only the second information to be read IR2, and when it is in the second movement position described later, it can cover only the first information to be read IR1.

[0281] Specifically, the length of the cover body 321 in the left-right direction is set to be longer than the length of the first information to be read IR1 (or the second information to be read IR2) in the left-right direction, and slightly shorter than the length of the front body surface portion 211c of the housing body 310 in the left-right direction.

[0282] Furthermore, the vertical length of the cover body 321 is set to be slightly longer than the vertical length of the first information to be read IR1 (or the second information to be read IR2), and shorter than the vertical length of the front body surface portion 211c.

[0283] (Configuration - Management System - Container Housing - Cover Section - Moving Section) The moving section 322 is for moving the cover body 321. This moving section 322 is configured using, for example, a known moving mechanism (for example, a moving mechanism that moves the cover body 321 in a straight line), is provided on the housing body 310, and, as shown in Figure 11, includes a drive section 322a, a transmission section 322b, and a conversion section 322c.

[0284] Of these, the drive unit 322a is for rotating the transmission unit. This drive unit 322a is configured using, for example, a known driving means (for example, a motor), and is provided in the vicinity of the cover body 321 within the main body portion 211 or the housing cover portion 212 of the housing body 310, and is connected to the main body portion 211 or the housing cover portion 212 by a fixing device or the like.

[0285] Furthermore, the transmission unit is for transmitting the rotational motion of the drive unit 322a to the conversion unit 322c. This transmission unit is constructed, for example, using a known elongated lead screw member, and is provided within the main body portion 211 or the housing cover portion 212 of the housing body 310 in the vicinity of the drive unit 322a, with the longitudinal direction of the transmission unit aligned with the vertical direction, and is rotatably connected to the drive unit 322a via a connecting member (not shown).

[0286] Furthermore, the conversion unit 322c is for converting the rotational motion of the drive unit 322a into linear motion (specifically, vertical motion). This conversion unit 322c is constructed, for example, using a known nut member, is inserted into the transmission unit, and is connected to the cover body 321 by a fixing device or the like.

[0287] (Configuration - Management System - Container - Cover - Control Unit) The control unit is a device for controlling the movable part 322. This control unit is located inside the main body 211 of the container body 310 or inside the container cover 212, and includes a communication unit, a power supply unit, a movement control unit, and a storage unit (all not shown).

[0288] Of these, the communication unit is for communicating with the mobile unit 322 or the first control unit 140, and is configured using, for example, known communication means (one example being known wireless communication means).

[0289] Furthermore, the power supply unit is for supplying power from a commercial power source (not shown) or a battery (e.g., a battery) to each part of the control unit.

[0290] Furthermore, the movement control unit is for controlling the movement unit 322.

[0291] Furthermore, the memory unit is a storage means for storing programs and various data necessary for the operation of the control unit, and is configured using a known rewritable recording medium.

[0292] (Management Process) Next, the management process performed in the analytical apparatus 1 configured as described above will be explained.

[0293] Furthermore, regarding the premise of the management process, in Embodiment 3, it is explained that the reagent storage section 20 contains multiple container containers 300 in which reagent bottles C1 are housed in the container body 310.

[0294] When the management process is activated, as shown in Figure 13, the acquisition unit 141 in SC1 determines whether or not the timing has arrived for the reading unit 23 to read only the first read target information IR1 (hereinafter referred to as the "first reading timing").

[0295] The method for determining whether or not this first reading timing has arrived is arbitrary, but for example, it may be determined based on whether or not a first predetermined time has elapsed, whether or not a first predetermined operation has been received via the operation unit of the second control unit 150, or whether or not a first reading instruction information has been received from an external device instructing to read the first information to be read IR1.

[0296] Here, if the first predetermined time has elapsed, if the first predetermined operation has been accepted, or if the first read instruction information has been received, it is determined that the first read timing has arrived. If the first predetermined time has not elapsed, if the first predetermined operation has not been accepted, or if the first read instruction information has not been received, it is determined that the first read timing has not arrived.

[0297] Then, if the acquisition unit 141 determines that the first reading timing has arrived (SC1, Yes), it moves to SC2, and if it determines that the first reading timing has not arrived (SC1, No), it moves to SC3.

[0298] In SC2, as shown in Figure 11, the acquisition unit 141 moves the cover body 321 of the cover unit 320 to a position where only the second information to be read, IR2, can be hidden from the reading unit 23 (hereinafter referred to as the "first movement position"), and then proceeds to SC5.

[0299] The method for moving the cover body 321 is arbitrary, but in Embodiment 3, it is moved as follows.

[0300] Specifically, first, the acquisition unit 141 uses a known method to transmit information indicating an instruction to move the cover body 321 to the first movement position (hereinafter referred to as "first movement instruction information") to the control unit of the container container 300 located closest to the reading unit 23 among the container containers 300 housed in the reagent storage unit 20.

[0301] Then, when the movement control unit of the control unit receives the first movement instruction information from the acquisition unit 141, it drives the drive unit 322a of the movement unit 322 so that the cover body 321 is positioned at the first movement position, thereby rotating the transmission unit a predetermined number of times and moving the conversion unit 322c in the vertical direction.

[0302] For example, if the cover body 321 is in the first moving position during the processing of SC2, the acquisition unit 141 does not need to move the cover body 321.

[0303] Returning to Figure 13, in SC3, the acquisition unit 141 determines whether or not the timing has arrived for the reading unit 23 to read only the second target information IR2 (hereinafter referred to as the "second reading timing").

[0304] The method for determining whether or not this second reading timing has arrived is arbitrary, but for example, it may be determined based on whether or not a second predetermined time (specifically, a time different from the first predetermined time) has elapsed, whether or not a second predetermined operation (specifically, an operation different from the second predetermined operation) has been received via the operation unit of the second control unit 150, or whether or not a second reading instruction information has been received from an external device instructing to read the second read target information IR2.

[0305] Here, if the second predetermined time has elapsed, if the second predetermined operation has been accepted, or if the second read instruction information has been received, it is determined that the second read timing has arrived. If the second predetermined time has not elapsed, if the second predetermined operation has not been accepted, or if the second read instruction information has not been received, it is determined that the second read timing has not arrived.

[0306] Then, if the acquisition unit 141 determines that the second reading timing has arrived (SC3, Yes), it moves to SC4, and if it determines that the second reading timing has not arrived (SC3, No), it moves to SC1.

[0307] In SC4, as shown in Figure 12, the acquisition unit 141 moves the cover body 321 to a position where only the first information to be read, IR1, can be hidden from the reading unit 23 (hereinafter referred to as the "second movement position"), and then proceeds to SC5.

[0308] The method for moving the cover body 321 is arbitrary, but in Embodiment 3, it is moved as follows.

[0309] Specifically, first, the acquisition unit 141 uses a known method to transmit information indicating an instruction to move the cover body 321 to the second movement position (hereinafter referred to as "second movement instruction information") to the control unit of the container container 300 located closest to the reading unit 23 among the container containers 300 housed in the reagent storage unit 20.

[0310] Then, when the movement control unit of the control unit receives the second movement instruction information from the acquisition unit 141, it drives the drive unit 322a of the movement unit 322 so that the cover body 321 is positioned at the second movement position, thereby rotating the transmission unit a predetermined number of times and moving the conversion unit 322c in the vertical direction.

[0311] For example, if the cover body 321 is in the second movement position during the processing of SC4, the acquisition unit 141 does not need to move the cover body 321.

[0312] Returning to Figure 13, in SC5, the acquisition unit 141 acquires the information to be read, IR, from the reading unit 23.

[0313] The method for acquiring the information to be read IR is optional, but in Embodiment 3, when SC5 is processed, if only the first information to be read IR1 (or the second information to be read IR2) attached to the reagent bottle C1 contained in the container container 300 that is closest to the reading unit 23 among the container containers 300 contained in the reagent storage unit 20 is read by the reading unit 23, the acquired information is obtained by receiving the read first information to be read IR1 (or the second information to be read IR2) from the reading unit 23.

[0314] In this case, for example, when the SC2 process is executed, and the first read-only information IR1 attached to the reagent bottle C1 housed in the container housing 300 is read by the reading unit 23, the second read-only information IR2 is hidden by the cover body 321, thus preventing the second read-only information IR2 from being read incorrectly.

[0315] Furthermore, for example, when the SC4 process is executed, and the second read-only information IR2 attached to the reagent bottle C1 housed in the container housing 300 is read by the reading unit 23, the first read-only information IR1 is hidden by the cover body 321, thus preventing the first read-only information IR1 from being read incorrectly.

[0316] In SC6, the determination unit 142 determines whether the information IR to be read, acquired in SC5, is correct or incorrect, similar to the processing in SA3.

[0317] Then, the determination unit 142 determines that the information to be read IR acquired in SC5 is correct (SC6, Yes), and proceeds to SC7, and determines that the information to be read IR acquired in SC5 is incorrect (SC6, No), and proceeds to SC8.

[0318] In SC7, the processing unit 143 executes the first corresponding process, similar to the process in SA4, and then proceeds to SC9.

[0319] In SC8, the processing unit 143 executes the second corresponding process, similar to the process in SA5, and then proceeds to SC9.

[0320] Regarding the processing details of the second corresponding process, for example, the processing unit 143 may output re-read instruction information to the reading unit 23 after the position of the cover body 321 or the reading unit 23 has been changed by a known method. In this case, the processing unit 143 may execute the processes from SC7 to SC10 again (the same applies to the process of SD10 described later).

[0321] In SC9, the first control unit 140 determines whether or not the termination timing has arrived, similar to the processing in SA6.

[0322] Then, if the first control unit 140 determines that the termination timing has arrived (SC9, Yes), it terminates the management process. On the other hand, if it determines that the termination timing has not arrived (SC9, No), it proceeds to SC1, and the processes from SC1 to SC9 are repeated until SC9 determines that the termination timing has arrived.

[0323] This management process allows for corresponding processing according to the determination result of the determination unit 142, similar to the management process in Embodiment 2, thereby further improving the manageability of the reagent bottle C1.

[0324] Furthermore, depending on the reading timing, the reading unit 23 can be made to read only one of the first target information IR1 or the second target information IR2, thus avoiding the reading unit 23 mistakenly reading the other of the first target information IR1 or the second target information IR2.

[0325] (Effects of Embodiment 3) As described above, according to Embodiment 3, when the first reading timing arrives in the storage state, the movement control unit moves the cover body 321 to a position where only the second reading target information IR2 can be hidden from the reading unit 23, and when the second reading timing arrives, the cover body 321 moves to a position where only the first reading target information IR1 can be hidden from the reading unit 23. Therefore, depending on the difference in reading timing, only one of the first reading target information IR1 or the second reading target information IR2 can be read by the reading unit 23, and the reading unit 23 can notify the other of the first reading target information IR1 or the second reading target information IR2 of being read incorrectly.

[0326] [Embodiment 4] Next, a container housing and management system according to Embodiment 4 will be described. In this Embodiment 4, the container housing comprises a first cover body, a second cover body, a first movable part, and a second movable part, as described below. However, unless otherwise specified, the configuration of this Embodiment 4 is the same as that of Embodiment 3, and for components that are the same as those in Embodiment 3, the same reference numerals and / or names used in this Embodiment 3 will be used as necessary, and their descriptions will be omitted.

[0327] (Configuration) First, the configuration of the analytical apparatus to which the container housing and management system according to Embodiment 4 are applied will be described.

[0328] The analytical apparatus 1 according to Embodiment 4 is configured identically to the analytical apparatus 1 according to Embodiment 3. However, the configuration of the management system 110 has been modified as described below.

[0329] Furthermore, the front surface of the bottle body C11 of the reagent bottle C1 according to Embodiment 4 is equipped with multiple IR indicators for reading information.

[0330] Specifically, the multiple readable information IRs include a first readable information IR1, a second readable information IR2 located in a different position from the first readable information IR1 (in Figure 14, the second readable information IR2 is smaller than the first readable information IR1), and a third readable information IR3 located in a different position from the first readable information IR1 and the second readable information IR2 (in Figure 14, the third readable information IR3 is the same size as the first readable information IR1). As shown in Figure 14, the first readable information IR1, the second readable information IR2, and the third readable information IR3 are arranged with a gap between them along the vertical direction (more specifically, the first readable information IR1 is located above the second readable information IR2, and the second readable information IR2 is located above the third readable information IR3).

[0331] Furthermore, the reading field of the reading unit 23 according to Embodiment 4 is set to a field of view that is capable of reading the first target information IR1, the second target information IR2, and the third target information IR3.

[0332] (Configuration - Management System) The management system 110 is equipped with a container housing 400.

[0333] (Configuration - Management System - Container Housing) The container housing 400 is housed within the reagent storage section 20 and comprises a housing body 410 and a cover section 420, as shown in Figures 14 to 16.

[0334] (Configuration - Management System - Container - Container Body) The container body 410 according to Embodiment 4 is configured in the same way as the container body 310 according to Embodiment 3.

[0335] (Configuration - Management System - Container - Cover Section) As shown in Figure 14, the cover section 420 comprises a first cover body 421, a second cover body 422, a first movable section 423, a second movable section 424, and a control unit (not shown).

[0336] (Configuration - Management System - Container - Cover Section - First Cover Body) The first cover body 421 is capable of concealing the first information to be read IR1 and the second information to be read IR2 from the reading section 23. This first cover body 421 is formed, for example, from a plate-like body made of resin (or steel) with a rectangular front shape, and is provided to cover a part of the exposed opening 211f on the body side of the container body 410.

[0337] Furthermore, while the specific size of the first cover body 421 is arbitrary, in Embodiment 4 it is set as follows.

[0338] In other words, the length of the first cover body 421 in the left-right direction is set to be longer than the length of the first information to be read IR1 in the left-right direction, and slightly shorter than the length of the front body surface portion 211c of the housing body 410 in the left-right direction.

[0339] Furthermore, the vertical length of the first cover body 421 is set to be longer than the sum of the vertical lengths of the first information to be read IR1 and the second information to be read IR2, and shorter than the vertical length of the front body surface portion 211c.

[0340] (Configuration - Management System - Container - Cover Section - Second Cover Body) The second cover body 422 is capable of concealing the second read target information IR2 and the third read target information IR3 from the reading section 23. This second cover body 422 is formed of a plate-like body made of resin (or steel) with a rectangular front shape, and is provided at a lower position than the first cover body 421 so as to cover a part of the exposed opening 211f on the main body side.

[0341] Furthermore, while the specific size of the second cover body 422 is arbitrary, in Embodiment 4 it is set as follows.

[0342] In other words, the length of the second cover body 422 in the left-right direction is set to be longer than the length of the third read target information IR3 in the left-right direction, and slightly shorter than the length of the front body surface portion 211c in the left-right direction.

[0343] Furthermore, the vertical length of the second cover body 422 is set to be longer than the sum of the vertical lengths of the second read target information IR2 and the third read target information IR3, and shorter than the vertical length of the front body surface portion 211c.

[0344] (Configuration - Management System - Container Body - Cover Section - First Moving Section) The first moving section 423 is for moving the first cover body 421. This first moving section 423 is configured, for example, using a known moving mechanism, and is provided on the container body 410. As shown in Figure 14, it includes a first drive section 423a, a first transmission section 423b, and a first conversion section 423c.

[0345] Of these, the first drive unit 423a is for rotating the first transmission unit 423b. This first drive unit 423a is configured, for example, using a known drive means, and is provided to the left of the main body side exposed opening 211f within the main body portion 211 or the main body cover portion 212 of the housing body 410, and is connected to the main body portion 211 or the housing body cover portion 212 by a fixing device or the like.

[0346] Furthermore, the first transmission unit 423b is for transmitting the rotational motion of the first drive unit 423a to the first conversion unit 423c. This first transmission unit 423b is constructed, for example, using a known elongated lead screw member, and is provided within the main body portion 211 or the housing cover portion 212 of the housing body 410 in the vicinity of the first drive unit 423a, with the longitudinal direction of the first transmission unit 423b aligned with the vertical direction, and is rotatably connected to the first drive unit 423a via a connecting member (not shown).

[0347] Furthermore, the first conversion unit 423c is for converting the rotational motion of the first drive unit 423a into linear motion (specifically, vertical motion). This first conversion unit 423c is constructed, for example, using a known nut member, is inserted into the first transmission unit 423b, and is connected to the first cover body 421 by a fixing device or the like.

[0348] (Configuration - Management System - Container Housing - Cover Section - Second Moving Section) The second moving section 424 is for moving the second cover body 422. This second moving section 424 is configured, for example, using a known moving mechanism, and is provided on the housing body 410. As shown in Figure 14, it includes a second drive section 424a, a second transmission section 424b, and a second conversion section 424c.

[0349] Of these, the second drive unit 424a is for rotating the second transmission unit 424b. This second drive unit 424a is configured, for example, using a known drive means, and is provided to the right of the main body side exposed opening 211f within the main body portion 211 or the main body cover portion 212 of the housing body 410, and is connected to the main body portion 211 or the housing body cover portion 212 by a fixing device or the like.

[0350] Furthermore, the second transmission unit 424b is for transmitting the rotational motion of the first drive unit 423a to the second conversion unit 424c. This second transmission unit 424b is constructed, for example, using a known long lead screw member, and is provided within the main body portion 211 or the housing cover portion 212 of the housing body 410 in the vicinity of the second drive unit 424a, with the longitudinal direction of the second transmission unit 424b aligned with the vertical direction, and is rotatably connected to the second drive unit 424a via a connecting member (not shown).

[0351] Furthermore, the second conversion unit 424c is for converting the rotational motion of the second drive unit 424a into linear motion (specifically, vertical motion). This second conversion unit 424c is constructed, for example, using a known nut member, is provided to be inserted into the second transmission unit 424b, and is connected to the second cover body 422 by a fixing device or the like.

[0352] (Configuration - Management system - Container housing - Cover part - Control unit) The control unit according to Embodiment 4 is configured in the same way as the control unit according to Embodiment 3.

[0353] Furthermore, the movement control unit of the control unit according to Embodiment 4 is for controlling the first movement unit 423 and the second movement unit 424.

[0354] (Management Process) Next, the management process performed in the analytical apparatus 1 configured as described above will be explained.

[0355] When the management process is activated, as shown in Figure 17, the acquisition unit 141 in SD1 determines whether or not the first reading timing has arrived, similar to the process in SC1.

[0356] Then, if the acquisition unit 141 determines that the first reading timing has arrived (SD1, Yes), it moves to SD2, and if it determines that the first reading timing has not arrived (SD1, No), it moves to SD3.

[0357] In SD2, as shown in Figure 14, the acquisition unit 141 moves the first cover body 421 and the second cover body 422 of the cover unit 420 to a position where only the second target information IR2 and the third target information IR3 can be hidden from the reading unit 23 (hereinafter referred to as the "first movement position"), and then proceeds to SD7.

[0358] The method for moving the first cover body 421 and the second cover body 422 is arbitrary, but in Embodiment 4, they are moved as follows.

[0359] Specifically, first, the acquisition unit 141 uses a known method to transmit information indicating an instruction to move the first cover body 421 and the second cover body 422 to a first movement position (hereinafter referred to as "first movement instruction information") to the control unit of the container container 400 located closest to the reading unit 23 among the container containers 400 housed in the reagent storage unit 20.

[0360] When the movement control unit of the control unit receives the first movement instruction information from the acquisition unit 141, it drives the first drive unit 423a of the first movement unit 423 so that the first cover body 421 and the second cover body 422 are positioned at the first movement position, thereby rotating the first transmission unit 423b a predetermined number of times and moving the first conversion unit 423c in the vertical direction. At the same time, it drives the second drive unit 424a of the second movement unit 424 so that the second transmission unit 424b is rotated a predetermined number of times and moving the second conversion unit 424c in the vertical direction.

[0361] For example, if the first cover body 421 and the second cover body 422 are in the first moving position during the processing of SD2, the acquisition unit 141 does not need to move the first cover body 421 and the second cover body 422.

[0362] Returning to Figure 17, in SD3, the acquisition unit 141 determines whether or not the second reading timing has arrived, similar to the process in SC3.

[0363] Then, if the acquisition unit 141 determines that the second reading timing has arrived (SD3, Yes), it moves to SD4, and if it determines that the second reading timing has not arrived (SD3, No), it moves to SD1.

[0364] In SD4, as shown in Figure 15, the acquisition unit 141 moves the first cover body 421 and the second cover body 422 to a position where only the first information to be read IR1 and the third information to be read IR3 can be hidden from the reading unit 23 (hereinafter referred to as the "second movement position"), and then proceeds to SD7.

[0365] The method for moving the first cover body 421 and the second cover body 422 is arbitrary, but in Embodiment 4, they are moved as follows.

[0366] Specifically, first, the acquisition unit 141 uses a known method to transmit information indicating an instruction to move the first cover body 421 and the second cover body 422 to the second movement position (hereinafter referred to as "second movement instruction information") to the control unit of the container container 400 located closest to the reading unit 23 among the container containers 400 housed in the reagent storage unit 20.

[0367] Then, when the movement control unit of the control unit receives the second movement instruction information from the acquisition unit 141, it drives the first drive unit 423a of the first movement unit 423 to rotate the first transmission unit 423b a predetermined number of times and move the first conversion unit 423c vertically, so that the first cover body 421 and the second cover body 422 are positioned at the second movement position, and drives the second drive unit 424a of the second movement unit 424 to rotate the second transmission unit 424b a predetermined number of times and move the second conversion unit 424c vertically.

[0368] For example, if the first cover body 421 and the second cover body 422 are in the second movement position during the processing of SD4, the acquisition unit 141 does not need to move the first cover body 421 and the second cover body 422.

[0369] Returning to Figure 17, in SD5, the acquisition unit 141 determines whether or not the timing has arrived for the reading unit 23 to read only the third target information IR3 (hereinafter referred to as the "third reading timing").

[0370] The method for determining whether or not this third reading timing has arrived is arbitrary, but for example, it may be determined based on whether or not a third predetermined time (specifically, a time different from the first predetermined time and the second predetermined time) has elapsed, whether or not a third predetermined operation (specifically, an operation different from the second predetermined operation and the third predetermined operation) has been received via the operation unit of the second control unit 150, or whether or not a third reading instruction information has been received from an external device instructing to read the third read target information IR3.

[0371] Here, if the third predetermined time has elapsed, if the third predetermined operation has been accepted, or if the third read instruction information has been received, it is determined that the third read timing has arrived. If the third predetermined time has not elapsed, if the third predetermined operation has not been accepted, or if the third read instruction information has not been received, it is determined that the third read timing has not arrived.

[0372] Then, if the acquisition unit 141 determines that the third reading timing has arrived (SD5, Yes), it proceeds to SD6, and if it determines that the third reading timing has not arrived (SD5, No), it proceeds to SD1.

[0373] In SD6, as shown in Figure 16, the acquisition unit 141 moves the first cover body 421 and the second cover body 422 to a position where only the first information to be read IR1 and the second information to be read IR2 can be hidden from the reading unit 23 (hereinafter referred to as the "third movement position"), and then proceeds to SD7.

[0374] The method for moving the first cover body 421 and the second cover body 422 is arbitrary, but in Embodiment 4, they are moved as follows.

[0375] Specifically, first, the acquisition unit 141 uses a known method to transmit information indicating an instruction to move the first cover body 421 and the second cover body 422 to the third movement position (hereinafter referred to as "third movement instruction information") to the control unit of the container container 400 located closest to the reading unit 23 among the container containers 400 housed in the reagent storage unit 20.

[0376] Then, when the movement control unit of the control unit receives third movement instruction information from the acquisition unit 141, it drives the first drive unit 423a of the first movement unit 423 so that the first cover body 421 and the second cover body 422 are positioned at the third movement position, thereby rotating the first transmission unit 423b a predetermined number of times and moving the first conversion unit 423c in the vertical direction, and also drives the second drive unit 424a of the second movement unit 424 so that the second transmission unit 424b is rotated a predetermined number of times and moving the second conversion unit 424c in the vertical direction.

[0377] For example, if the first cover body 421 and the second cover body 422 are in the third movement position during the processing of SD6, the acquisition unit 141 does not need to move the first cover body 421 and the second cover body 422.

[0378] Returning to Figure 17, in SD7, the acquisition unit 141 acquires the information to be read, IR, from the reading unit 23.

[0379] The method for acquiring the information to be read IR is optional, but in Embodiment 4, when SD7 is processed, if only the first information to be read IR1 (or the second information to be read IR2 or the third information to be read IR3) attached to the reagent bottle C1 contained in the container container 400 that is closest to the reading unit 23 among the container containers 400 contained in the reagent storage unit 20 is read by the reading unit 23, the acquired information is obtained by receiving the read first information to be read IR1 (or the second information to be read IR2 or the third information to be read IR3) from the reading unit 23.

[0380] In this case, for example, when the SD2 process is executed, and the first read-only information IR1 attached to the reagent bottle C1 housed in the container housing 400 is read by the reading unit 23, the second read-only information IR2 and the third read-only information IR3 are hidden by the first cover body 421 and the second cover body 422, thus preventing the second read-only information IR2 and the third read-only information IR3 from being read incorrectly.

[0381] Furthermore, for example, when the SD4 process is executed, and the second read-only information IR2 attached to the reagent bottle C1 housed in the container housing 400 is read by the reading unit 23, the first read-only information IR1 and the third read-only information IR3 are hidden by the first cover body 421 and the second cover body 422, thereby preventing the first read-only information IR1 and the third read-only information IR3 from being read incorrectly.

[0382] Furthermore, for example, when the SD6 process is executed, and the third read-only information IR3 attached to the reagent bottle C1 housed in the container housing 400 in its storage state is read by the reading unit 23, the first read-only information IR1 and the second read-only information IR2 are hidden by the first cover body 421 and the second cover body 422, thereby preventing the first read-only information IR1 and the second read-only information IR2 from being read incorrectly.

[0383] In SD8, the determination unit 142 determines whether the information IR to be read, acquired in SD7, is correct or incorrect, similar to the processing in SA3.

[0384] Then, the determination unit 142 determines that the information to be read IR acquired in SD7 is correct (SD8, Yes), and determines that the information to be read IR acquired in SD7 is incorrect (SD8, No), and proceeds to SD10.

[0385] In SD9, the processing unit 143 executes the first corresponding process, similar to the process in SA4, and then proceeds to SD11.

[0386] In SD10, the processing unit 143 executes the second corresponding process, similar to the process in SA5, and then proceeds to SD11.

[0387] In SD11, the first control unit 140 determines whether or not the termination timing has arrived, similar to the processing in SA6.

[0388] Then, if the first control unit 140 determines that the termination timing has arrived (SD11, Yes), it terminates the management process. On the other hand, if it determines that the termination timing has not arrived (SD11, No), it proceeds to SD1, and repeats the processing from SD1 to SD11 until it determines in SD11 that the termination timing has arrived.

[0389] This management process allows for corresponding processing based on the determination result of the determination unit 142, similar to the management process in Embodiment 3, thereby further improving the manageability of the reagent bottle C1.

[0390] Furthermore, depending on the reading timing, only one of the first target information IR1, the second target information IR2, or the third target information IR3 can be read by the reading unit 23, thus avoiding the reading unit 23 mistakenly reading the remaining information of the first target information IR1, the second target information IR2, or the third target information IR3.

[0391] (Effects of Embodiment 4) As described above, according to Embodiment 4, when the first reading timing arrives in the housing state, the movement control unit moves the first cover body 421 and the second cover body 422 to a position where only the second reading target information IR2 and the third reading target information IR3 can be hidden from the reading unit 23, when the second reading timing arrives, the first cover body 421 and the second cover body 422 to a position where only the first reading target information IR1 and the third reading target information IR3 can be hidden from the reading unit 23, when the third reading timing arrives In this configuration, the first cover body 421 and the second cover body 422 are moved to a position where only the first read target information IR1 and the second read target information IR2 are hidden from the reading unit 23. Therefore, depending on the difference in reading timing, only one of the first read target information IR1, the second read target information IR2, or the third read target information IR3 can be read by the reading unit 23, thus avoiding the reading unit 23 mistakenly reading the remaining information of the first read target information IR1, the second read target information IR2, or the third read target information IR3.

[0392] [Embodiment 5] Next, a container housing and management system according to Embodiment 5 will be described. In this Embodiment 5, the moving unit and the moving control unit are provided in the reagent storage unit. However, unless otherwise specified, the configuration of this Embodiment 5 is the same as that of Embodiment 3, and for components that are the same as those in Embodiment 3, the same reference numerals and / or names used in this Embodiment 3 will be used as necessary, and their descriptions will be omitted.

[0393] (Configuration) First, the configuration of the analytical apparatus to which the container housing and management system according to Embodiment 5 are applied will be described.

[0394] The analytical apparatus 1 according to Embodiment 5 is configured identically to the analytical apparatus 1 according to Embodiment 3. However, the configuration of the management system 110 has been modified as described below.

[0395] Furthermore, the reading field of the reading unit 23 according to Embodiment 5 is set to a field of view that allows reading only one of either the first target information IR1 or the second target information IR2.

[0396] (Configuration - Management System) The management system 110 includes a container housing 500, a moving part 510, and a control unit (not shown).

[0397] (Configuration - Management System - Container Compartment) The container compartment 500 is housed within the reagent storage section 20 and comprises a compartment body 501, as shown in Figures 18 and 19.

[0398] (Configuration - Management System - Container - Container Body) The container body 501 according to Embodiment 5 is configured in the same way as the container body 310 according to Embodiment 3.

[0399] (Configuration - Management System - Moving Unit) The moving unit 510 is for moving the reading unit 23. This moving unit 510 is configured using, for example, a known moving mechanism and includes a drive unit 511, a transmission unit 512, and a conversion unit 513, as shown in Figures 18 and 19.

[0400] Of these, the drive unit 511 is for rotating the transmission unit. This drive unit 511 is configured, for example, using a known driving means, and is located within the housing 21 of the reagent storage unit 20, near the reading unit 23.

[0401] Furthermore, the transmission unit is for transmitting the rotational motion of the drive unit 511 to the conversion unit 513. This transmission unit is constructed, for example, using a known long lead screw member, and is installed within the housing 21 of the reagent storage unit 20 in the vicinity of the drive unit 511, with its longitudinal direction aligned with the vertical direction, and is rotatably connected to the drive unit 511 via a connecting member (not shown).

[0402] Furthermore, the conversion unit 513 is for converting the rotational motion of the drive unit 511 into linear motion (specifically, vertical motion). This conversion unit 513 is constructed, for example, using a known nut member, is inserted into the transmission unit, and is connected to the reading unit 23 by a fixing device or the like.

[0403] (Configuration - Management System - Control Unit) The control unit is a device for controlling the mobile unit 510. This control unit is located within the housing 21 of the reagent storage unit 20 and includes a communication unit, a power supply unit, a mobile control unit, and a storage unit (all not shown).

[0404] Since the communication unit, power supply unit, mobile control unit, and storage unit are configured identically to those in Embodiment 3, their description will be omitted.

[0405] (Management Process) Next, the management process performed in the analytical apparatus 1 configured as described above will be explained.

[0406] Regarding the management process according to Embodiment 5, the processes of SE1, SE3, SE6 to SE9 in Figure 20 are the same as the processes of SC1, SC3, SC5 to SC9 in Figure 13, so the explanation of the processes of SE1, SE3, SE6 to SE9 in Figure 20 will be omitted.

[0407] In SE2 shown in Figure 20, the acquisition unit 141 moves the reading unit 23 to a position where only the first target information IR1 can be read from the reading unit 23 (hereinafter referred to as the "first movement position"), as shown in Figure 18, and then proceeds to SE5.

[0408] The method for moving the reading unit 23 is arbitrary, but in Embodiment 5, it is moved as follows.

[0409] Specifically, first, the acquisition unit 141 transmits information (hereinafter referred to as "first movement instruction information") to the control unit, using a known method, indicating an instruction to move the reading unit 23 to the first movement position.

[0410] Then, when the movement control unit of the control unit receives the first movement instruction information from the acquisition unit 141, it drives the drive unit 511 of the movement unit 510 so that the reading unit 23 is positioned at the first movement position, thereby rotating the transmission unit a predetermined number of times and moving the conversion unit 513 in the vertical direction.

[0411] For example, if the reading unit 23 is in the first movement position during the processing of SE2, the acquisition unit 141 does not need to move the reading unit 23.

[0412] Returning to Figure 20, in SE4, the acquisition unit 141 moves the reading unit 23 to a position where only the second target information IR2 can be read from the reading unit 23 (hereinafter referred to as the "second movement position"), as shown in Figure 19, and then proceeds to SE5.

[0413] The method for moving the reading unit 23 is arbitrary, but in Embodiment 5, it is moved as follows.

[0414] Specifically, first, the acquisition unit 141 transmits information (hereinafter referred to as "second movement instruction information") to the control unit, using a known method, indicating an instruction to move the reading unit 23 to the second movement position.

[0415] Then, when the movement control unit of the control unit receives the second movement instruction information from the acquisition unit 141, it drives the drive unit 511 of the movement unit 510 so that the reading unit 23 is positioned at the second movement position, thereby rotating the transmission unit a predetermined number of times and moving the conversion unit 513 in the vertical direction.

[0416] For example, if the reading unit 23 is in the second movement position during the processing of SE4, the acquisition unit 141 does not need to move the reading unit 23.

[0417] Returning to Figure 20, in SE5, the acquisition unit 141 acquires the information to be read, IR, from the reading unit 23.

[0418] The method for acquiring the information to be read IR is optional, but in Embodiment 5, when SE5 is processed, if only the first information to be read IR1 (or the second information to be read IR2) attached to the reagent bottle C1 contained in the container container 500 that is closest to the reading unit 23 among the container containers 500 contained in the reagent storage unit 20 is read by the reading unit 23, the first information to be read IR1 (or the second information to be read IR2) is acquired by receiving the read first information to be read IR1 (or the second information to be read IR2) from the reading unit 23.

[0419] In this case, for example, when the SE2 process is executed, the reading unit 23 reads the first read target information IR1 attached to the reagent bottle C1 housed in the container housing 500 in the storage state, by positioning the reading unit 23 at the first movement position, thereby preventing the second read target information IR2 from being read incorrectly.

[0420] Furthermore, for example, when the SE4 process is executed, and the second read target information IR2 attached to the reagent bottle C1 housed in the container housing 500 in the storage state is read by the reading unit 23, the reading unit 23 is positioned at the second movement position, thereby preventing the first read target information IR1 from being read incorrectly.

[0421] This management process allows for corresponding processing based on the determination result of the determination unit 142, further improving the manageability of the reagent bottle C1.

[0422] Furthermore, depending on the reading timing, the reading unit 23 can be made to read only one of the first target information IR1 or the second target information IR2, thus avoiding the reading unit 23 mistakenly reading the other of the first target information IR1 or the second target information IR2.

[0423] (Effects of Embodiment 5) As described above, according to Embodiment 5, the management system 110 includes a moving unit 510 for moving the reading unit 23 and a moving control unit for controlling the moving unit 510. Therefore, compared to the conventional technology (a technology in which black ink is applied to a tag when it is determined to be an unnecessary tag), the reading unit 23 can flexibly read the information IR to be read according to the situation, and the manageability of the reagent bottle C1 can be improved.

[0424] [Embodiment 6] Next, a container housing and management system according to Embodiment 6 will be described. In this Embodiment 6, the container housing does not have a cover portion. However, unless otherwise specified, the configuration of this Embodiment 6 is the same as that of Embodiment 3, and for components that are the same as those in Embodiment 3, the same reference numerals and / or names used in this Embodiment 3 will be used as necessary, and their descriptions will be omitted.

[0425] (Configuration) First, the configuration of the analytical apparatus to which the container housing and management system according to Embodiment 6 are applied will be described.

[0426] The analytical apparatus 1 according to Embodiment 6 is configured identically to the analytical apparatus 1 according to Embodiment 3. However, the configuration of the management system 110 has been modified as described below.

[0427] As shown in Figure 21, the front surface of the bottle body C11 of the reagent bottle C1 according to Embodiment 6 is equipped with three readable information IRs (specifically, the first readable information IR1, the second readable information IR2, and the third readable information IR3), similar to the reagent bottle C1 according to Embodiment 4.

[0428] Furthermore, the reading field of the reading unit 23 according to Embodiment 6 is set to a field of view that is capable of reading the first target information IR1, the second target information IR2, and the third target information IR3.

[0429] (Configuration - Management System) The management system 110 is equipped with a container housing 600.

[0430] (Configuration - Management System - Container Compartment) The container compartment 600 is housed within the reagent storage section 20 and comprises a compartment body 610, as shown in Figure 21.

[0431] (Configuration - Management System - Container - Container Body) The container body 610 according to Embodiment 6 is configured in the same way as the container body 310 according to Embodiment 3.

[0432] (Management Process) Next, the management process performed in the analytical apparatus 1 configured as described above will be explained.

[0433] Regarding the management process according to Embodiment 6, the processes of SF1, SF5, and SF6 in Figure 22 are the same as the processes of SA1, SA5, and SA6 in Figure 6, so the explanation of the processes of SF1, SF5, and SF6 in Figure 22 will be omitted.

[0434] As shown in Figure 22, in SF2, the acquisition unit 141 acquires the information to be read, IR, from the reading unit 23.

[0435] The method for acquiring the information to be read IR is optional, but in Embodiment 6, when processing SF2, the first information to be read IR1, the second information to be read IR2, and the third information to be read IR3 attached to the reagent bottle C1 housed in the container 600 located closest to the reading unit 23 among the container 600 housed in the reagent storage unit 20 are read all at once by the reading unit 23. The acquired information is obtained by receiving the read first information to be read IR1, the second information to be read IR2, and the third information to be read IR3 from the reading unit 23.

[0436] Furthermore, in SF3, the determination unit 142 determines whether the information IR to be read, acquired in SF2, is correct or incorrect.

[0437] The method for determining the validity of the read target information IR is arbitrary, but in Embodiment 6, the determination is made based on whether or not one of the model type information contained in each of the first read target information IR1, the second read target information IR2, and the third read target information IR3 acquired by SF2 matches the reference model type information.

[0438] Here, if it matches the above standard model type information, it is determined that the information IR to be read acquired by SF2 is correct; if it does not match the above standard model type information, it is determined that the information IR to be read acquired by SF2 is incorrect.

[0439] Then, the determination unit 142 determines that the information to be read IR acquired in SF2 is correct (SF3, Yes), and proceeds to SF4, and determines that the information to be read IR acquired in SF2 is incorrect (SF3, No), and proceeds to SF5.

[0440] Furthermore, in SF4, the processing unit 143 executes the first corresponding process, and then proceeds to SF6.

[0441] The processing details of this first corresponding process are arbitrary, but in Embodiment 6, it is executed as follows.

[0442] Specifically, first, the processing unit 143 uses a known method and various components of the analyzer 1 to perform a calibration measurement of a reagent corresponding to one of the first read target information IR1, second read target information IR2, or third read target information IR3, which includes model type information that has been determined to match the reference model type information in SF3.

[0443] Next, the processing unit 143 uses a known method to create a calibration curve based on the results of the calibration measurement and the basic calibration curve information contained in any one of the first reading target information IR1, second reading target information IR2, or third reading target information IR3, which includes the model type information.

[0444] Then, the processing unit 143 calculates the concentration of the object to be measured based on the calibration curve created above.

[0445] This management process allows for corresponding processing based on the determination result of the determination unit 142, further improving the manageability of the reagent bottle C1.

[0446] (Effects of Embodiment 6) As described above, according to Embodiment 6, the acquisition unit 141 acquires a plurality of read target information IRs attached to the reagent bottle C1 via the reading unit 23, and the processing unit 143 executes corresponding processing based on one of the first read target information IR1, second read target information IR2, or third read target information IR3, which includes model type information that the determination unit 142 has determined to match the reference model type information. Therefore, compared to the conventional technology (a technology in which black ink is applied to a tag when it is determined to be an unnecessary tag), the reading unit 23 can flexibly read the read target information IRs according to the situation, thereby improving the manageability of the reagent bottle C1. In addition, corresponding processing can be executed according to the determination result of the determination unit 142, thereby improving the manageability of the reagent bottle C1.

[0447] [III] Modifications of the Embodiments The embodiments of the present invention have been described above, but the specific configurations and means of the present invention can be arbitrarily modified and improved within the scope of the technical idea of ​​each invention described in the claims. Such modifications will be described below.

[0448] (Regarding the problems to be solved and the effects of the invention) First, the problems to be solved by the invention and the effects of the invention are not limited to the above-described content. By the present invention, it is also possible to solve problems not described above or to achieve effects not described above. Further, it may solve only a part of the described problems or achieve only a part of the described effects.

[0449] (Regarding dispersion and integration) Also, each of the above-described electrical components is a functional concept and does not necessarily need to be physically configured as shown in the drawings. That is, the specific form of dispersion and integration of each part is not limited to that shown in the drawings, and all or part of it can be functionally or physically dispersed or integrated in any unit according to various loads, usage situations, etc.

[0450] (Regarding shape, numerical value, structure, and time series) Regarding the components exemplified in the embodiments and the drawings, with respect to the shape, numerical value, or the structure or time series mutual relationship of a plurality of components, within the scope of the technical idea of the present invention, it can be arbitrarily modified and improved.

[0451] (Regarding the analyzer) In the above-described Embodiments 1 to 6, it was described that the analyzer 1 includes the chip removal part 92, but it is not limited to this. For example, the chip removal part 92 may be omitted.

[0452] (Regarding the reaction tank) In the above-described Embodiments 1 to 6, it was described that the number of installed reaction lines 81 of the reaction tank 80 is one, but it is not limited to this. For example, it may be two or more. In this case, it is desirable that the reagent dispensing part 60 and the specimen dispensing part 70 be configured to be able to dispense to a plurality of reaction lines 81.

[0453] Also, in the above-described Embodiments 1 to 6, it was described that the reaction line 81 is a transport type reaction line, but it is not limited to this. For example, it may be a fixed type reaction line.

[0454] (Regarding the state detection part) In the above-described Embodiments 1 to 6, it was described that the state detection part 103 is an imaging means, but it is not limited to this. For example, it may be a pressure sensor or an optical sensor (as an example, an infrared sensor).

[0455] (Regarding the information to be read) In the above embodiment 1, the information to be read was described as QR code information, but it is not limited to this, and may be RFID information, for example (the same applies to the information to be read according to embodiment 2-4). In this case, for example, the first cover portion 122 of the first container housing 120 (or the second cover portion 132 of the second container housing 130) may be made of a material that can shield radio waves from the information to be read (for example, a metal material that can shield radio waves) (the same applies to the cover body according to embodiment 2-4).

[0456] (Regarding the container body) In the above embodiment 1, it was explained that the container body includes only one of the first container body 120 or the second container body 130, but it is not limited to this.

[0457] For example, the container may include a first container 120 and a second container 130.

[0458] This allows the reading unit 23 to read only one of the first target information IR1 or the second target information IR2, depending on whether the first container body 120 or the second container body 130 is used, thus avoiding the reading unit 23 mistakenly reading the other of the first target information IR1 or the second target information IR2.

[0459] Alternatively, if the multiple readable information IRs include one or more other readable information IRs in addition to the first readable information IR1 and the second readable information IR2, the container housing may include one or more other container housings in addition to the first container housing 120 and the second container housing 130.

[0460] Furthermore, although the first embodiment described above states that the first container housing 120 includes a first cover portion 122 and the second container housing 130 includes a second cover portion 132, the embodiment is not limited to this. For example, the first container housing 120 (or the second container housing 130) may include both a first cover portion 122 and a second cover portion 132.

[0461] For example, if the first container housing 120 includes a first cover portion 122 and a second cover portion 132, the first cover portion 122 may be formed integrally with the first front side portion 121c of the first housing body 121, and the second cover portion 132 may be formed integrally with the first rear side portion 121d of the first housing body 121.

[0462] This allows the reading unit 23 to read only one of the first read target information IR1 or the second read target information IR2, depending on the orientation (front-to-back direction) in which the reagent bottle C1 is placed in the first container body 121, thus avoiding the reading unit 23 mistakenly reading the other of the first read target information IR1 or the second read target information IR2.

[0463] Furthermore, in the above embodiment 2, the second position adjustment unit 224 of the container housing 200 is configured to position the cover body 221 in a position where only the second information to be read IR2 is hidden from the reading unit 23 in the first housing state, and to position the cover body 221 in a position where only the first information to be read IR1 is hidden from the reading unit 23 in the second housing state, but the invention is not limited to this.

[0464] For example, the cover body 221 may be positioned in a location that hides only the first information to be read, IR1, from the reading unit 23 in the first storage state, and the cover body 221 may be positioned in a location that hides only the second information to be read, IR2, from the reading unit 23 in the second storage state.

[0465] Furthermore, although the description in Embodiment 3 above states that the movable part 322 of the container housing 300 is configured using a moving mechanism that moves the cover body 321 in a straight line, it may also be configured using a moving mechanism that rotates the cover body 321, for example.

[0466] Furthermore, although the description in Embodiment 3 above states that the movable part 322 of the container housing 300 is provided on the housing body 310, it is not limited to this, and may be provided on the housing 21 of the reagent storage unit 20, for example (the same applies to the first movable part 423 and the second movable part 424 in Embodiment 4 above).

[0467] (Regarding the cover portion) In the above embodiment 3, the cover portion 320 was described as comprising a cover body 321, a movable portion 322, and a control unit. However, it is not limited to this, and for example, as shown in Figure 23, in addition to these components, a guide portion 323 may also be provided (the same applies to the cover portion 420 of embodiment 4).

[0468] The guide portion 323 is for guiding the cover body 321 to move along the vertical direction. This guide portion 323 is formed of a long resin (or metal) body with a U-shaped planar shape, and as shown in Figure 23, the guide portion 323 is erected so that its longitudinal direction is aligned with the vertical direction, and the right end of the cover body 321 is fitted into the guide portion 323.

[0469] The guide portion 323 allows the cover body 321 to be moved along the vertical direction, improving the usability of the cover portion 320.

[0470] (Regarding the moving part) In the above embodiment 5, the moving part 510 was described as comprising a drive unit 511, a transmission unit 512, and a conversion unit 513, but it is not limited to this.

[0471] For example, as shown in Figure 24, the movable part 510 may also include a first guide part 514 and a second guide part 515 in addition to these components.

[0472] Of these, the first guide section 514 is attached to the reading section 23. This first guide section 514 is made of a resin (or metal) plate-like body with a rectangular side shape, and as shown in Figure 24, it is provided so as to cover the side of the reading section 23 and is connected to the reading section 23 by a fixing device or the like.

[0473] Furthermore, the second guide portion 515 is for guiding the reading portion 23 to move along the vertical direction. This second guide portion 515 is formed as a long body made of resin (or metal) with a U-shaped planar shape, and as shown in Figure 24, the second guide portion 515 is erected so that its longitudinal direction is aligned with the vertical direction, and the right end of the first guide portion 514 is fitted into the guide portion 323.

[0474] The first guide section 514 and the second guide section 515 allow the reading section 23 to be moved along the vertical direction, improving the usability of the moving section 510.

[0475] Alternatively, for example, as shown in Figure 25, an installation angle adjustment unit 520 may be provided instead of the movable unit 510.

[0476] The installation angle adjustment unit 520 is for adjusting the installation angle of the reading unit 23, and as shown in Figure 25, it comprises a support unit 521, a rotating unit 522, and a drive unit 523.

[0477] Of these, the support portion 521 is for supporting the reading portion 23. This support portion 521 is formed from a long, elongated resin body, and as shown in Figure 25, it is erected so that its longitudinal direction is aligned with the vertical direction.

[0478] Furthermore, the rotating part 522 is for rotating the reading part 23. This rotating part 522 is constructed using a known rotating mechanism. Specifically, as shown in Figure 25, the rotating part 522 includes a first pulley part 522a connected to the drive part 523 via a first rotating shaft 522d, a second pulley part 522b connected to the reading part 23 and also connected to the support part 521 via a second rotating shaft 522e, and an annular belt part 522c provided to run along the first pulley part 522a and the second pulley part 522c.

[0479] Furthermore, the drive unit 523 is for driving the rotating part 522. This drive unit 523 is configured using a known driving means (for example, a motor), and as shown in Figure 25, it is provided near the first pulley part 522a and connected to the drive unit 523 via the first rotating shaft 522d.

[0480] Furthermore, the reading field of view of the reading unit 23 may be set to a field of view that allows the first reading target information IR1 and the second reading target information IR2 to be read, depending on the size of the rotating unit 522, etc.

[0481] This installation angle adjustment unit 520 allows the installation angle of the reading unit 23 to be adjusted according to the situation.

[0482] (Note) The container housing in Note 1 is a container for an analytical device, and is a container housing for housing a container to which a plurality of pieces of information to be read by a reading means is attached, comprising a housing body capable of housing the container, and a cover means for concealing only a portion of the other pieces of information to be read from the reading means so that only a portion of the plurality of information to be read can be read by the reading means when the container is housed in the housing body.

[0483] The container housing described in Appendix 2 is a container housing described in Appendix 1, wherein the plurality of readable information includes a first readable information and a second readable information located at a different position from the first readable information, and the container housing includes a first housing body which is the housing body itself, and a first cover means which is the cover means for concealing only the second readable information from the reading means so that only the first readable information is read by the reading means in the housing state in which the container is housed in the first housing body, or / and a second container housing which includes a second housing body which is the housing body itself, and a second cover means which is the cover means for concealing only the first readable information from the reading means so that only the second readable information is read by the reading means in the housing state in which the container is housed in the second housing body itself.

[0484] The container housing body of Supplementary Note 3 is the container housing body described in Supplementary Note 1, wherein the plurality of information to be read includes first information to be read and second information to be read that is at a position different from the first information to be read. The cover means includes a cover body and a position adjustment unit for adjusting the position of the cover body. The position adjustment unit includes a first position adjustment unit that can be detachably attached to the container, and a second position adjustment unit for positioning the cover body at a position where only one of the first information to be read or the second information to be read can be hidden from the reading means in a first housing state, which is a housing state where the container to which the first position adjustment unit is not attached is housed in the housing body, and for positioning the cover body at a position where only the other of the first information to be read or the second information to be read can be hidden from the reading means in a second housing state, which is a housing state where the container to which the first position adjustment unit is attached is housed in the housing body.

[0485] The container housing body of Supplementary Note 4 is the container housing body described in Supplementary Note 1, wherein the plurality of information to be read includes first information to be read and second information to be read that is at a position different from the first information to be read. The cover means includes a cover body, a moving unit for moving the cover body, and a movement control unit for controlling the moving unit. The movement control unit moves the cover body to a position where only the second information to be read can be hidden from the reading means when a first reading timing for allowing only the first information to be read to be read by the reading means arrives in the housing state, and moves the cover body to a position where only the first information to be read can be hidden from the reading means when a second reading timing for allowing only the second information to be read to be read by the reading means arrives.

[0486] The container housing in Appendix 5 is the container housing described in Appendix 1, wherein the plurality of readable information includes a first readable information, a second readable information located at a different position from the first readable information, and a third readable information located at a different position from the first and second readable information, and the cover means comprises a first cover body capable of concealing the first and second readable information from the reading means, a second cover body capable of concealing the second and third readable information from the reading means, a first moving part for moving the first cover body, a second moving part for moving the second cover body, and a moving control unit for controlling the first and second moving parts, and the moving control unit is in the housing state When a first reading timing arrives in which only the first information to be read is to be read by the reading means, the first cover body and the second cover body are moved to a position where only the second information to be read and the third information to be read are hidden from the reading means. When a second reading timing arrives in which only the second information to be read is to be read by the reading means, the first cover body and the second cover body are moved to a position where only the first information to be read and the third information to be read are hidden from the reading means. When a third reading timing arrives in which only the third information to be read is to be read by the reading means, the first cover body and the second cover body are moved to a position where only the first information to be read and the second information to be read are hidden from the reading means.

[0487] The container housing in Appendix 6 is a container housing described in any one of Appendix 1 to 5, wherein the container is a reagent bottle for storing reagents, and the container housing is a reagent holder for movably holding the container.

[0488] The management system described in Appendix 7 is a management system for managing a container to which a plurality of pieces of information to be read by a reading means is attached, comprising: a container housing described in any one of Appendix 1 to 5; an acquisition means for acquiring at least a portion of the pieces of information to be read from the reading means when at least a portion of the pieces of information to be read is read by the reading means; a determination means for determining whether the at least a portion of the information to be read acquired by the acquisition means is correct or incorrect; and a processing means for executing a corresponding process corresponding to the determination result of the determination means.

[0489] (Effects of the appendix) The container housing described in Appendix 1 comprises a housing body and a cover means for concealing only some of the other readable information from the reading means so that only some of the readable information from the multiple readable information can be read by the reading means when the housing is in a state of storage. Compared to the above-mentioned conventional technology (a technology that applies black ink to a tag when it is determined to be an unnecessary tag), the reading means can flexibly read the readable information according to the situation, thereby improving the manageability of the container.

[0490] According to the container housing described in Appendix 2, the container housing includes a first container housing comprising a first housing body and a first cover means for concealing only the second information to be read from the reading means so that only the first information to be read can be read by the reading means when the container is housing, or / or a second container housing comprising a second housing body and a second cover means for concealing only the first information to be read from the reading means so that only the second information to be read can be read by the reading means when the container is housing. Therefore, if only one of the first container housing or the second container housing is included, only one of the first information to be read or the second information to be read can be read by the reading means, and the reading means can avoid mistakenly reading the other of the first information to be read or the second information to be read. Furthermore, if the system includes a first container and a second container, the reading means can read only one of the first or second target information depending on how the first and second containers are used, thus avoiding the reading means mistakenly reading the other of the first or second target information.

[0491] According to the container housing described in Appendix 3, the position adjustment unit comprises a first position adjustment unit and a second position adjustment unit for positioning the cover body in a position where, in the first housing state, only one of the first information to be read or the second information to be read is hidden from the reading means, and in the second housing state, only the other of the first information to be read or the second information to be read is hidden from the reading means. Therefore, depending on whether the first position adjustment unit is attached to the container, only one of the first information to be read or the second information to be read can be made to be read by the reading means, and the reading means can avoid being mistakenly made to read the other of the first information to be read or the second information to be read.

[0492] According to the container housing described in Appendix 4, when the first reading timing arrives, the moving control unit moves the cover body to a position where only the second information to be read is hidden from the reading means when the first reading timing arrives, and when the second reading timing arrives, it moves the cover body to a position where only the first information to be read is hidden from the reading means. Therefore, depending on the difference in reading timing, only one of the first information to be read or the second information to be read can be read by the reading means, and the reading means can avoid being mistakenly read by the other of the first or second information to be read.

[0493] According to the container housing described in Appendix 5, the moving control unit moves the first cover body and the second cover body to a position where only the second and third information to be read are hidden from the reading means when the first reading timing arrives in the housing state, moves the first cover body and the second cover body to a position where only the first and third information to be read are hidden from the reading means when the second reading timing arrives, and moves the first cover body and the second cover body to a position where only the first and second information to be read are hidden from the reading means when the third reading timing arrives. Therefore, depending on the difference in reading timing, only one of the first, second, or third information to be read can be read by the reading means, and the remaining information of the first, second, or third information to be read can be avoided from being mistakenly read by the reading means.

[0494] According to the container housing described in Appendix 6, the container is a reagent bottle, and the container housing is a reagent holder. Therefore, while housing the reagent bottle, the reading of the target information by the reading means can be flexibly performed as needed, thereby improving the manageability of the reagent bottle.

[0495] According to the management system described in Appendix 7, the system comprises a container body described in any one of Appendix 1 to 5, an acquisition means for obtaining at least some of the multiple pieces of information to be read from the reading means when at least some of the information to be read is read by the reading means, a determination means for determining whether the at least some of the information to be read obtained by the acquisition means is correct or incorrect, and a processing means for executing corresponding processing. Therefore, corresponding processing can be executed according to the determination result of the determination means, and the manageability of the container can be further improved.

[0496] 1. Analytical device 2. Wiring 10. Reaction vessel supply unit 20. Reagent storage unit 21. Housing 22. Holding tray 23. Reading unit 30. Sample storage unit 42. Chip supply unit 50. Reaction vessel transport unit 60. Reagent dispensing unit 70. Sample dispensing unit 80. Reaction vessel 81. Reaction line 81a. Hole 83. Washing unit 84. Substrate dispensing unit 92. Chip removal outer part 92a. Chip removal outer part main body 92b. Chip side notch 101. Photometric unit 103. State detection unit 110. Management system 120. First container housing 121. First housing main body 121a. First left side part 121b. First right side part 121c. First front side part 121d. First rear side part 121e. First bottom side part 122. First cover part 130 Second container container 131 Second container main body 131a Second left side part 131b Second right side part 131c Second front side part 131d Second rear side part 131e Second bottom side part 132 Second cover part 133 Exposure opening 140 First control part 141 Acquisition part 142 Judgment part 143 Processing part 150 Second control section 200 Container housing 210 Container main body 211 Main body 211a Left main body surface 211b Right main body surface 211c Front main body surface 211d Rear main body surface 211e Bottom main body surface 211f Main body exposed opening 211g First guide 211h Second guide 211i Third guide part 211j First movement restriction part 211k Second movement limiting part 211l Third movement limiting part 212 Housing cover part 212a Left side cover surface part 212b Right side cover surface part 212c Front side cover surface part 212d Rear side cover surface part 212e Bottom side cover surface part 212f Cover side exposed opening 212g Insertion port 220 Cover part 221 Cover body 222 Position adjustment part 223 First position adjustment part 223a Engagement part 224 Second position adjustment part 225 First cam part 225a Projection part 226 Second cam part 226a Insertion slot 300 Container housing 310 Housing body 320 Cover part 321 Cover body 322 Movement part 322a Drive part 322b Transmission part 322c Conversion part323 Guide section 400 Container housing 410 Housing body 420 Cover section 421 First cover body 422 Second cover body 423 First moving section 423a First drive section 423b First transmission section 423c First conversion section 424 Second moving section 424a Second drive section 424b Second transmission section 424c Second conversion section 500 Container housing 501 Housing body 510 Moving section 511 Drive section 512 Transmission section 513 Conversion section 514 First guide section 515 Second guide section 520 Installation angle adjustment section 521 Support section 522 Rotating section 522a First pulley section 522b Second pulley section 522c Belt section 522d First rotating shaft 522e Second rotating shaft 523 Drive unit 600 Container housing 610 Housing body C1 Reagent bottle C11 Bottle body C12 Bottle lid C2 Sample container C3 Reaction vessel IR Information to be read IR1 First information to be read IR2 Second information to be read IR3 Third information to be read R Sample rack

Claims

A container for an analytical device, which contains a container with multiple pieces of information to be read by a reading means, A container body capable of accommodating the aforementioned container, In the storage state in which the container is housed in the housing body, a cover means for concealing only some of the other parts of the multiple A container body equipped with the following features. 　 The aforementioned plurality of readable information includes a first readable information and a second readable information located at a different position from the first readable information. The container for the said container is A first container housing comprising a first housing body which is the housing body, and a first cover means which is the cover means for concealing only the second information to be read from the reading means so that only the first information to be read is read by the reading means in the housing state in which the container is housed in the first housing body, or / and, The second container housing includes a second housing body which is the housing body itself, and a second cover means which is the cover means for concealing only the first information to be read from the reading means so that only the second information to be read can be read by the reading means when the container is housed in the second housing body. A container for a container according to claim 1. 　 The aforementioned plurality of readable information includes a first readable information and a second readable information located at a different position from the first readable information. The aforementioned covering means is The cover body and It includes a position adjustment unit for adjusting the position of the cover body, The position adjustment unit is, A first position adjustment unit that can be detachably attached to the container, The device comprises a first storage state in which the container without the first position adjustment unit is stored in the storage body, the cover body is positioned to conceal only one of the first or second information to be read from the reading means, and a second position adjustment unit for positioning the cover body to conceal only the other of the first or second information to be read from the reading means in a second storage state in which the container with the first position adjustment unit is stored in the storage body, A container for a container according to claim 1. 　 The aforementioned plurality of readable information includes a first readable information and a second readable information located at a different position from the first readable information. The aforementioned covering means is The cover body and A movable part for moving the cover body, The system includes a movement control unit for controlling the aforementioned movement unit, The movement control unit, in the housing state, When the first reading timing arrives, in which only the first information to be read is to be read by the reading means, the cover body is moved to a position where only the second information to be read is hidden from the reading means. When a second reading timing arrives in which only the second information to be read is to be read by the reading means, the cover body is moved to a position in which only the first information to be read is hidden from the reading means. A container for a container according to claim 1. 　 The plurality of readable information includes a first readable information, a second readable information located at a different position from the first readable information, and a third readable information located at a different position from the first and second readable information. The aforementioned covering means is A first cover body capable of concealing the first information to be read and the second information to be read from the reading means, A second cover body capable of concealing the second information to be read and the third information to be read from the reading means, A first moving part for moving the first cover body, A second moving part for moving the second cover body, The system comprises a movement control unit for controlling the first movement unit and the second movement unit, The movement control unit, in the housing state, When the first reading timing arrives, in which only the first information to be read is to be read by the reading means, the first cover body and the second cover body are moved to a position where only the second information to be read and the third information to be read are hidden from the reading means. When the second reading timing arrives, in which only the second information to be read is to be read by the reading means, the first cover body and the second cover body are moved to a position where only the first information to be read and the third information to be read are hidden from the reading means. When the third reading timing arrives, in which only the third information to be read is to be read by the reading means, the first cover body and the second cover body are moved to a position where only the first information to be read and the second information to be read are hidden from the reading means. A container for a container according to claim 1. The container is a reagent bottle for containing reagents. The container housing is a reagent holder for movably holding the container. A container for a container according to any one of claims 1 to 5. 　 A management system for managing containers to which multiple pieces of information to be read by a reading means are attached, A container body according to any one of claims 1 to 5, When at least some of the multiple pieces of information to be read are read by the reading means, an acquisition means for obtaining the at least some of the information to be read from the reading means, A determination means for determining whether at least a portion of the information to be read obtained by the acquisition means is correct or incorrect, Processing means for executing corresponding processing corresponding to the determination result of the determination means, A management system equipped with the following features.

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