Diagnostic device for measuring sample by using cartridge

Abstract

The present invention relates to a diagnostic device comprising a multi-cartridge holder for use in the medical and life science fields. The diagnostic device of the present invention is a diagnostic device for measuring a sample by using a cartridge, the diagnostic device comprising: a cartridge holder having at least one slot in which a cartridge is mounted; an optical system for measuring a sample in the cartridge mounted on the cartridge holder; and a discharge mechanism for discharging, from the cartridge holder, the cartridge after measurement of the sample in the cartridge has been completed. The present invention comprises a plurality of cartridge holders so that several samples can be measured at the same time, thereby greatly improving experiment and diagnosis efficiency.

Description

A diagnostic device that measures samples using a cartridge

[0001] The present invention relates to a diagnostic device for measuring a sample using a cartridge, and more specifically, to a diagnostic device for the medical and life sciences field comprising a multi-cartridge holder.

[0002] Diagnostic devices are widely used in the fields of medicine and life sciences for the analysis of various samples. These devices analyze biological samples, such as blood, urine, and saliva, and are utilized for disease diagnosis, health monitoring, and drug response testing. The advancement of diagnostic devices plays a crucial role in enhancing the efficiency and accuracy of medical services.

[0003] Recently, cartridge-based diagnostic devices have been widely used. A cartridge-based diagnostic device is a system that performs analysis in an automated manner by inserting a cartridge containing a sample into the device. This method has the advantages of enhancing user convenience, reducing the risk of contamination, and obtaining standardized analysis results.

[0004] However, most existing diagnostic devices adopted a single cartridge holder, making it difficult to measure multiple samples simultaneously. Consequently, to analyze multiple samples, the process of inserting and removing the cartridge individually for each sample had to be repeated, which was time-consuming and inefficient.

[0005] Furthermore, some diagnostic devices lacked temperature control systems for the cartridge holder, which limited precise temperature control in biological reaction processes requiring the maintenance of specific temperatures. Since temperature is a critical factor significantly affecting the efficiency and accuracy of many biochemical reactions, this limitation could impact the accuracy of the analysis results.

[0006] Furthermore, existing diagnostic devices adopted a cartridge ejection method that involved rearward removal, requiring a large space for operation. This rearward ejection method limited the locations where the device could be installed and reduced flexibility in placement. Additionally, users faced the inconvenience of having to access the rear of the device to remove the cartridge.

[0007] To solve these problems, there is a need to develop a new diagnostic device that enables simultaneous measurement through multiple holders, allows for accurate temperature control by being equipped with a heating unit, and can automatically eject the cartridge forward after analysis is complete.

[0008] The present invention was devised to solve various problems associated with existing diagnostic devices, and specifically aims to solve the following.

[0009] First, the present invention aims to provide a diagnostic device capable of measuring multiple samples simultaneously by providing a multi-cartridge holder.

[0010] Second, the present invention aims to provide a diagnostic device capable of performing measurements for each holder.

[0011] Third, the present invention aims to provide a diagnostic device capable of improving measurement accuracy by maintaining a specific temperature by equipping a heating unit.

[0012] Fourth, the present invention aims to provide a diagnostic device that can increase user convenience and reduce the space required for using the diagnostic device by applying a structure that automatically ejects the cartridge after measurement is finished.

[0013] Fifth, the present invention aims to provide a diagnostic device capable of fast and efficient measurement compared to existing single-sample-based diagnostic devices.

[0014] A diagnostic device according to an embodiment of the present invention is a diagnostic device for measuring a sample using a cartridge, characterized by comprising: a cartridge holder having at least one slot into which a cartridge is mounted; an optical system for measuring a sample of the cartridge mounted in the cartridge holder; and a discharge mechanism for discharging the cartridge from the cartridge holder after the measurement is completed.

[0015] In addition, it may include a heating part that provides heat to the cartridge mounted in the cartridge holder.

[0016] In addition, the above slots are provided in multiple numbers in the cartridge holder, and the heating unit can provide heat to each of the slots.

[0017] In addition, it may include a control system that controls the heating unit and the discharge mechanism, and a user interface that communicates with the control system and displays the status of the slot of the cartridge holder so that the user can monitor the status of the slot in real time. Through this, the user can easily check the measurement status and results of each cartridge holder.

[0018] Additionally, the discharge mechanism may include a shaft installed to extend in one direction; a discharge motor that generates rotational motion; and a remover that discharges the cartridge mounted in the cartridge holder by moving forward along the shaft from a groove position to a selected slot of the cartridge holder by the rotational motion of the discharge motor in a first direction.

[0019] In addition, the remover can return to the home position by moving backward along the shaft from the cartridge holder by rotational movement in a second direction opposite to the first direction of the discharge motor.

[0020] Additionally, the discharge mechanism is installed at the home position of the remover and includes a bracket that supports the remover to prevent it from rotating due to external impact, and the discharge mechanism may include a home sensor installed at the home position of the remover that senses when the remover returns to the home position. This enables safe operation and accurate position control of the remover.

[0021] Additionally, the cartridge includes a first end positioned on the front side and a second end positioned on the rear side, extending in one direction from the first end to the second end, and the cartridge is mounted on the cartridge holder on the front side, and the cartridge after measurement is completed can be discharged to the front side by the discharge mechanism.

[0022] In addition, the optical system can move together with the remover.

[0023] Additionally, the discharge mechanism may further include a slot selection drive unit that moves the remover in a direction perpendicular to the forward direction in which the remover moves. Due to this configuration, measurements for multiple cartridge holders can be efficiently performed using a single optical system.

[0024] Additionally, it may further include a camera that moves together with the optical system and recognizes an identification mark displayed on the cartridge. By recognizing an identification mark, such as a barcode or handwriting, the type of sample loaded in the cartridge can be read.

[0025] Additionally, it may further include a temperature sensor that moves together with the optical system and senses the temperature of the cartridge in a non-contact manner.

[0026] In addition, a plurality of cartridges are mounted in the cartridge holder, and the optical system moves to the upper part of the plurality of cartridges so as to independently measure the sample of each cartridge.

[0027] Additionally, the cartridge holder may include a pressurizing part that elastically presses the cartridge toward the optical system to maintain a constant distance between the cartridge and the optical system; and a stopper that restricts the range of movement of the cartridge pressed by the pressurizing part.

[0028] Additionally, the slot selection drive unit may include: a coupling part to which the optical system and the discharge mechanism are coupled; a first guide bar that guides the coupling part in one direction; a transfer motor that provides power to reciprocate the coupling part; and a guide shaft coupled to the shaft of the transfer motor.

[0029] A diagnostic device for measuring a sample using a cartridge according to the present invention provides the following effects.

[0030] First, the present invention includes multiple cartridge holders, thereby enabling the simultaneous measurement of multiple samples and significantly improving experimental and diagnostic efficiency. Compared to the conventional single-cartridge method, the increased analytical throughput allows medical institutions or research facilities that need to process a large number of samples to save time and costs.

[0031] Second, since the reaction temperature can be controlled through a heating unit mounted on each cartridge holder, the present invention can provide optimal reaction conditions for each sample. This has the effect of improving measurement accuracy and reliability in the analysis of temperature-sensitive biological or immunological reactions.

[0032] Third, the forward automatic ejection mechanism of the present invention can reduce the space required for using the diagnostic device by ejecting the cartridge after measurement is completed forward. Unlike conventional rear ejection methods, no additional space is required at the rear of the device, allowing for more flexible placement of the device in various environments.

[0033] Fourth, the automatic ejection system according to the present invention automatically ejects the cartridge forward without the user having to manually remove it, thereby greatly improving user convenience. In addition, the sophisticated operation mechanism of the remover and the safety device through the bracket and groove sensor ensure the reliability and accuracy of the ejection process.

[0034] Fifth, the structure in which the optical system and the remover move together and the holder selection drive unit of the present invention enable efficient measurement of multiple cartridges with a single optical system, thereby allowing for multi-sample analysis while reducing the complexity and cost of the device.

[0035] Sixth, the control system and user interface of the present invention enable real-time monitoring of the status of each cartridge holder, thereby enhancing the transparency and controllability of the analysis process. This allows the user to continuously check the sample analysis status and respond appropriately if necessary.

[0036] Seventh, the present invention improves user convenience by enabling the automatic reading of the type of sample by recognizing identification marks, such as barcodes or handwriting, using a camera installed in an optical system.

[0037] Eighth, the present invention enhances the reliability of analysis by monitoring the reaction temperature within the cartridge in real time using a temperature sensor installed in the optical system. In another embodiment, the temperature sensor is positioned below the cartridge holder to sense the temperature in close proximity to the cartridge holder, thereby enabling precise monitoring of the cartridge holder's temperature.

[0038] Combining these effects, the present invention enables diagnostic processes in the medical and life sciences fields to be performed more efficiently and reliably through simultaneous analysis of multiple samples, precise temperature control, space-efficient design, and enhanced user convenience.

[0039] FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram of the main parts of a diagnostic device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] Figure 2 is a front view of the diagnostic device shown in Figure 1.

[0041] Figure 3 is a configuration diagram of the discharge mechanism shown in Figure 1.

[0042] FIG. 4 is a front view illustrating the state in which the remover is in the home position in the discharge mechanism shown in FIG. 3.

[0043] FIG. 5 is a front view illustrating the state in which the remover advances from the home position to the cartridge holder in the discharge mechanism shown in FIG. 3.

[0044] Figure 6 is a configuration diagram of the cartridge holder of the diagnostic device shown in Figure 1.

[0045] Figure 7 is a front view of the cartridge holder shown in Figure 6.

[0046] Figure 8 is a configuration diagram of a part of the diagnostic device shown in Figure 1.

[0047] FIGS. 9 to 15 are drawings illustrating the step of ejecting a cartridge mounted in a cartridge holder forward by the ejection mechanism shown in FIG. 1.

[0048] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a diagnostic device according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of FIG. 16 seen from a different angle.

[0050] FIG. 18 is an enlarged view showing the state in which the remover of FIG. 16 is positioned at the home position.

[0051] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of FIG. 16 seen from another angle.

[0052] FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view of the main part of the slot selection drive unit.

[0053] Figure 21 is a drawing showing the separated state of the cartridge and the cartridge holder.

[0054] Figure 22 is a drawing of Figure 21 in a combined state.

[0055] FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view showing the arrangement of a cartridge and an optical system mounted in a cartridge holder.

[0056] Figure 24 is a drawing illustrating a cartridge holder.

[0057] FIG. 25 is a drawing illustrating a cartridge mounting portion.

[0058] FIG. 26 is a drawing showing a sensor board placed below the cartridge holder.

[0059] FIG. 27 is a drawing illustrating a configuration in which a cartridge holder moves back and forth.

[0060] Fig. 28 is a drawing of Fig. 27 enlarged from a different angle.

[0061] FIG. 29 is a drawing showing the opening of the main body.

[0062] FIG. 30 is a drawing illustrating the cartridge being discharged from the main body.

[0063] Hereinafter, various embodiments of the present invention are described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Since various embodiments of the present invention may be subject to various modifications and may have various forms, specific embodiments are illustrated in the drawings and described in detail. However, this is not intended to limit the various embodiments of the present invention to specific forms, and it should be understood that they include all modifications and / or equivalents and substitutions that fall within the spirit and scope of the various embodiments of the present invention. In relation to the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals have been used for similar components.

[0064] Expressions such as "comprising" or "may comprise" that may be used in various embodiments of the present invention indicate the existence of the disclosed function, operation, or component, etc., and do not limit one or more additional functions, operations, or components, etc. Furthermore, in various embodiments of the present invention, terms such as "comprising" or "having" are intended to specify the existence of the features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof described in the specification, and should be understood as not precluding the existence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0065] When it is stated that a component is "connected" to another component, it should be understood that the component may be directly connected to the other component, or that a new component may exist between the component and the other component. On the other hand, when it is stated that a component is "directly connected" or "directly in contact" with another component, it should be understood that no new component exists between the component and the other component.

[0066] The terms used in the various embodiments of the present invention are used merely to describe specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the various embodiments of the present invention. The singular expression includes the plural expression unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0067] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein, including technical or scientific terms, have the same meaning as generally understood by those skilled in the art to which the various embodiments of the present invention pertain.

[0068] Terms such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries should be interpreted as having meanings consistent with their meanings in the context of the relevant technology, and should not be interpreted in an ideal or overly formal sense unless explicitly defined in the various embodiments of the present invention.

[0069]

[0070] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0071] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of a main part of a diagnostic device (100) according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is a front view of the diagnostic device (100) shown in FIG. 1. As shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the diagnostic device (100) according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a cartridge holder (102), an optical system (104), and an ejection mechanism (106).

[0072] The cartridge holder (102) has at least one slot in which a cartridge (103) is mounted in the longitudinal direction (L) from the front (F). According to the present embodiment, a plurality of slots are provided. The diagnostic device (100) has three slots arranged in the width direction (L). The optical system (104) independently measures a sample of the cartridge (103) for each slot of the cartridge holder (102). The discharge mechanism (106) discharges the cartridge (103) that has completed measurement to the front (F).

[0073] The diagnostic device (100) includes a slot selection drive unit (108), a control unit (110), and a display (112). The display (112) communicates with the control unit (110) and includes a user interface to allow a user to monitor the status of the slot of the cartridge holder (102) in real time. The status of the slot of the cartridge holder (102) is displayed through the user interface.

[0074] FIG. 3 is a configuration diagram of the discharge mechanism (106) of the diagnostic device (100) illustrated in FIG. 1. The discharge mechanism (106) comprises a shaft (302), a discharge motor (304), and a remover (306).

[0075] The shaft (302) is installed parallel to the longitudinal direction (L) in which the slot extends. The remover (306) is guided by the shaft (302) and coupled so as to be able to move forward and backward.

[0076] The discharge motor (304) provides a driving force for the remover (306) to move along the shaft (302). According to the present embodiment, the discharge motor (304) is configured to rotate in forward and reverse directions so that the remover (306) coupled to the shaft (302) can move back and forth along the shaft (302).

[0077] The remover (306) moves forward along the shaft (302) from a groove position to a selected slot of the cartridge holder (102) by the rotational movement of the discharge motor (304), thereby pushing the cartridge (103) and discharging the cartridge (103) mounted in the cartridge holder (102) forward (F).

[0078] According to the present embodiment, the discharge mechanism (106) includes a drive shaft (308), a guide panel (310), a shaft bracket (312), a home sensor (314), and a control board (316).

[0079] The drive shaft (308) transmits the rotational motion generated by the discharge motor (304) to the remover (306). One end of the guide panel (310) is installed on the wall (311), and the other end is connected to the end of the shaft (302). Thus, the guide panel (310) maintains the height and direction of the shaft (302). The shaft bracket (312) and the groove sensor (314) are also installed on the wall (311).

[0080] The remover (306) includes a body part (318), a shaft guide part (320), a finger part (322), and a groove seating part (324).

[0081] The body portion (318) is formed in a cylindrical shape and has a hole (319) formed in the longitudinal direction (L) at the center. The drive shaft (308) is screw-coupled to the hole (319) so as to be rotatable with respect to the body portion (318). Accordingly, the rotational movement of the discharge motor (304) is transmitted to the body portion (318) through the drive shaft (308).

[0082] The shaft guide portion (320) is provided to support the shaft (302). The shaft guide portion (320) is provided on the outer surface of the body portion (318) and provides a tunnel (321) through which the shaft (302) passes. The tunnel (321) is formed by penetrating in the longitudinal direction (L), and the shaft (302) is received in the tunnel (321). The shaft (302) is installed in the longitudinal direction (L) in the tunnel (321) of the shaft guide portion (320). The tunnel (321) is formed roundly to have a predetermined curvature. The rotation angle of the remover (306) is adjusted within the circumferential length range of the tunnel (321), so that the rotation range (R) of the remover (306) can be determined. The circumferential length of the tunnel (321) can be appropriately selected so that the remover (306) can rotate within a predetermined range.

[0083] When the shaft (302) is positioned at the upper part (320a) of the tunnel (321), the remover (306) is seated in the groove position, and when the shaft (302) is positioned at the lower part (320b) of the tunnel (321), the lower part of the finger portion (322) is positioned at the lowest position of the remover (306).

[0084] The rotational motion of the discharge motor (304) is transmitted to the body part (318) by the drive shaft (308) to rotate the body part (318). For example, when the discharge motor (304) rotates clockwise, the body part (318) also rotates clockwise, and when the shaft (302) reaches the lower end of the tunnel (321), the body part (318) can no longer rotate, so the rotational motion of the discharge motor (304) is converted into linear motion of the body part (318). For example, when the discharge motor (304) rotates clockwise, the body part (318) moves forward (moves straight forward), and the finger part (322) pushes the cartridge (103) mounted on the cartridge holder (102) forward so that it is discharged from the cartridge holder (102).

[0085] FIG. 4 is a front view illustrating the state in which the remover (306) is in the home position in the discharge mechanism (106) illustrated in FIG. 3. When the discharge motor (304) rotates, for example, counterclockwise, the body part (318) also initially rotates counterclockwise, and when the upper part (320a) of the shaft guide part (320) reaches the shaft (302), the body part (318) can no longer rotate. Accordingly, the rotational movement of the discharge motor (304) transmitted through the drive shaft (308) is converted into a backward movement that moves the body part (318) straight backward. Thus, when the remover (306) returns to the home position, the home seating part (324) is recognized by the home sensor (314). When it is confirmed by the home sensor (314) that the remover (306) has reached the home position, the control board (316) turns off the operation of the discharge motor (304).

[0086] As shown in FIG. 3, the shaft bracket (312) has an inclined portion on the front side and a horizontal portion on the rear side. The inclined portion has an upward slope as it moves toward the front, thereby guiding the shaft guide portion (320) during the backward movement of the remover (306). The horizontal portion maintains the position of the shaft guide portion (320) when the remover (306) reaches the groove position. Specifically, the horizontal portion of the shaft bracket (312) supports the shaft guide portion (320) when the remover (306) reaches the groove position, thereby preventing the remover (306) from rotating due to external impact.

[0087] As illustrated in FIG. 1, the diagnostic device (100) further includes a slot selection drive (108). The slot selection drive (108) enables the remover (306) to select a slot of the cartridge holder (102) by moving the remover (306) in the width direction (W) which is perpendicular to the length direction (L). An optical system (104) may be configured to move together with the remover (306). Thus, the optical system (104) can perform individual measurements for each slot provided by the cartridge holder (102).

[0088] FIG. 5 is a front view illustrating the state of the remover (306) when it advances from the home position to the cartridge holder (102) in the discharge mechanism (106) illustrated in FIG. 3. In the home position state illustrated in FIG. 4, the shaft guide portion (320) is supported by the shaft bracket (312), so when the discharge motor (304) rotates clockwise, the remover (306) cannot rotate and moves forward. As the forward movement progresses and the shaft guide (320) exits the shaft bracket (312), the remover (306) begins to rotate. As the rotational movement of the remover (306) progresses and the shaft (302) reaches the lower portion (320b) of the shaft guide portion (320), the remover (306) can no longer rotate, so the remover (306) moves forward again. At this time, the shaft guide part (320) is configured so that the finger part (322) is positioned at the lowest position of the remover (306). The remover (306) may have an arm part (323) between the body part (318) and the finger part (322). By separating the body part (318) and the finger part (322) by the arm part (323), the finger part (322) can be inserted into the slot of the cartridge holder (102) without interference between the body part (318) and the cartridge holder (102).

[0089] FIG. 6 is a configuration diagram of the cartridge holder (102) of the diagnostic device illustrated in FIG. 1, and FIG. 7 is a front view of the cartridge holder (102) illustrated in FIG. 6. As illustrated, the cartridge holder (102) of the present embodiment is provided with three slots (602a, 602b, 602c). Since cartridges can be loaded into each of the slots (602a, 602b, 602c), the cartridge holder (102) can load three cartridges simultaneously. Of course, the number of slots is not limited to this.

[0090] A heating unit (702) is installed at the bottom of the slots (602a, 602b, 602c). The heating unit (702) can maintain the temperature of a plurality of cartridges (103) installed in each slot of the cartridge holder (102) at a predetermined temperature. The control unit (110) can control the heating unit (702) and recognize whether the cartridges (103) are installed. The heating unit (702) is equipped with a heating element (704) and a heating circuit (706). The cartridge holder (102) may further be equipped with an elastic body (708), such as a sponge, at the bottom of the heating unit (702). The elastic body (708) causes the heating unit (702) to be in close contact with the bottom of the slots (602a, 602b, 602c), thereby allowing the heat generated from the heating unit (702) to be efficiently transferred. The above cartridge holder (102) is coupled to the holder base (714) and installed in the body of the diagnostic device (100).

[0091] FIG. 8 is a configuration diagram of a part of the diagnostic device (100) shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram viewed from the top right, whereas FIG. 8 is a configuration diagram viewed from the bottom right. As shown in FIG. 1, the diagnostic device (100) is equipped with a camera (802) and a temperature sensor (804) that move together with an optical system (104).

[0092] The camera (802) recognizes a barcode printed on the cartridge or an identification mark, such as handwriting, written by the user on the cartridge for cartridge identification. Since the type of sample loaded into the cartridge is automatically read through the recognition of the barcode or handwriting by the camera (802), user convenience is improved.

[0093] The temperature sensor (804) senses the temperature of the cartridge in a non-contact manner. Since the reaction temperature in the cartridge is monitored in real time through the temperature sensor (804), the reliability of the analysis is improved.

[0094] FIGS. 9 to 15 illustrate the step of ejecting a cartridge (902) mounted in a slot (602a) of a cartridge holder (102) forward by the ejection mechanism (106) illustrated in FIG. 1. FIG. 9 illustrates the step of the remover (306) advancing toward the rear of the slot (602a) after the remover (306) has moved in the width direction (W) toward the slot (602a) by the slot selection drive unit (108), with the lower end of the finger portion (322) positioned at the lowest position of the remover (306). To advance the remover (306), the ejection motor (304) rotates clockwise.

[0095] FIG. 10 illustrates the stage immediately before the tip of the finger portion (322) is inserted into the rear of the slot (602a). FIG. 11 illustrates the stage where the tip of the finger portion (322) pushes the rear end of the cartridge (902) so that the tip of the cartridge (902) is exposed from the slot of the cartridge holder (102). FIG. 12 illustrates the stage immediately before the cartridge (902) is forward ejected from the cartridge holder (102). FIG. 13 illustrates the stage after the ejection motor (304) changes the direction of rotational movement counterclockwise to retract the remover (306). FIG. 14 illustrates the stage where the remover (306) retracts and the finger portion (322) is retracted to the rear end of the slot (602a) of the cartridge holder (102). FIG. 15 illustrates the step in which the remover (306) continues to retract so that the finger portion (322) is completely removed from the slot (602a) of the cartridge holder (102). FIG. 16 to 28 illustrate a diagnostic device according to another embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, the same reference numerals are assigned to components identical to those in the above embodiment, and repetitive descriptions are omitted.

[0096] As illustrated in FIG. 16, the diagnostic device according to the present embodiment includes a cartridge holder (102), an optical system (104), and an ejection mechanism (106), similar to the embodiment of FIG. 1.

[0097] As illustrated in FIG. 16, the remover (306) moves forward and backward along the drive shaft (308). In this embodiment, the configuration of the remover (306) and the operation of the remover (306) moving forward and backward are substantially the same as in the embodiment of FIG. 1. As illustrated in FIG. 16 and FIG. 17, the optical system (104) and the discharge mechanism (106) are connected together and arranged to move together by the slot selection drive unit (108).

[0098] As illustrated in FIG. 18, when the body portion (318) of the remover (306) is positioned in the groove, the shaft guide portion (320) is supported by the horizontal bracket (3121) to prevent the remover (306) from rotating. That is, according to the present embodiment, the horizontal bracket (3121) can be provided with the inclined portion removed compared to the shaft guide portion (320) of FIG. 1.

[0099] Referring to FIGS. 16 and 19, the slot selection drive unit (108) according to the present embodiment includes a coupling unit (1008), a first guide bar (1009), a transfer motor (1005), and a guide shaft (1004).

[0100] The coupling portion (1008) is a part where the optical system (104) and the discharge mechanism (106) are coupled, and the coupling portion (1008) moves along a first guide bar (1009) that extends in one direction. Here, the one direction may be a direction perpendicular to the forward and backward directions in which the remover (306) moves. Additionally, when the remover (306) moves in the length direction (L), the one direction may be the width direction (W).

[0101] The above transfer motor (1005) provides power to reciprocate the coupling part (1008). The guide shaft (1004) is coupled to the shaft of the transfer motor (1005), and the rotational force of the transfer motor (1005) is transmitted to a pressure plate (1006) coupled to the shaft, thereby pushing or pulling the coupling part (1008), so that the optical system (104) and the discharge mechanism (106) reciprocate together. As illustrated in FIGS. 19 and 20, according to the present embodiment, the slot selection drive unit (108) includes an auxiliary guide shaft (1003) to stably reciprocate the optical system (104) and the discharge mechanism (106). Both ends of the auxiliary guide shaft (1003) are respectively fixed to a support bracket (1002) provided facing the base (1001). A guide block (1007) is coupled to the auxiliary guide shaft (1003), and the coupling part (1008) is connected to the guide block (1007), so that the optical system (104) and the discharge mechanism (106) can move back and forth stably.

[0102] FIG. 21 illustrates a state in which a cartridge (103) and a cartridge holder (102) are separated according to an embodiment of the present invention. The cartridge holder (102) according to the present embodiment includes a cartridge mounting portion (1021) comprising a plurality of slots (602a, 602b, 602c) on which the cartridge (103) is seated and mounted. Each slot (602a, 602b, 602c) of the cartridge mounting portion (1021) is provided with an extension direction parallel to the direction in which the remover (306) moves. A heating portion (702) is provided on the lower side of the cartridge mounting portion (1021), and the heating portion (702) may be provided as a single plate-shaped structure of a size that includes the area of ​​the plurality of slots (602a, 602b, 602c) to simultaneously provide heat to the plurality of slots (602a, 602b, 602c). The heat from the heating unit (702) is transferred to the cartridge mounting unit (1021), so that each of the plurality of slots (602a, 602b, 602c) can be maintained or managed at a predetermined temperature.

[0103] As illustrated in FIG. 22, the cartridge mounting portion (1021) has through holes (1023) formed in the front and rear portions, and on the rear side, a first sensor hole (1024) is provided in communication with a cartridge recognition sensor (805) to recognize whether the cartridge (103) is mounted in each slot (602a, 602b, 602c). A pressure portion (1034) formed in the cartridge holder (102) is inserted into and protrudes from the through hole (1023).

[0104] Additionally, as illustrated in FIG. 23 and FIG. 25, a stopper (1022) is provided to regulate the range of movement of the cartridge (103) of the cartridge holder (102). Specifically, according to the present embodiment, a rib-shaped stopper (1022) protruding inwardly into each slot (602a, 602b, 602c) is provided at the top of each slot (602a, 602b, 602c) of the cartridge mounting portion (1021). As illustrated in FIG. 23, the upper surface of the cartridge (103) is caught on the stopper (1022) to restrict upward movement, and the distance to the optical system (104) is maintained constant while the upper surface of the cartridge (103) is in contact with the stopper (1022), thereby improving the precision of the measurement.

[0105] Referring to FIG. 24, the cartridge holder (102) according to the present embodiment is provided with a pressing part (1034) that presses the cartridge (103). The pressing part (1034) elastically presses the cartridge (103) toward the optical system (104) to maintain a constant distance between the cartridge (103) and the optical system (104). Specifically, the pressing part (1034) includes an elastic rib (1032) extending from one side of a cut hole (1031) provided on the bottom surface of the cartridge holder (102), and a pressing part (1033) provided at the end of the elastic rib (1032). As shown in FIG. 22, the pressing part (1033) protrudes upward from the through hole (1023) and presses the cartridge (103) mounted in each slot (602a, 602b, 602c) upward. When the cartridge (103) is mounted in the slots (602a, 602b, 602c), the elastic rib (1032) provides a force that pushes the cartridge (103) upward, thereby allowing the cartridge (103) to maintain contact with the stopper (1022). As shown in FIG. 26, whether the cartridge (103) is mounted can be sensed by a cartridge recognition sensor (805) provided on a sensor board (1100). According to the present embodiment, in order to recognize the cartridge (103) by the cartridge recognition sensor (805), a second sensor hole (1025) is provided in the cartridge holder (102) at a position corresponding to the first sensor hole (1024) of the cartridge mounting part (1021). According to the present embodiment, the temperature sensor (804) provided on the sensor board (1100) senses the temperature of the cartridge holder (102) and monitors the temperature of a plurality of slots (602a, 602b, 602c) so that it can be managed or maintained at a predetermined temperature.

[0106]

[0107] As illustrated in FIG. 27, according to the present embodiment, a cartridge guide part (1200) and a cartridge driving part (1300) are provided to reciprocate the cartridge holder (102) forward or backward.

[0108] The cartridge guide section (1200) includes a mounting plate (1203) on which a cartridge holder (102) is mounted, a fixing block (1202) to which the mounting plate (1203) is fixed, and a guide rail (1201) that guides the fixing block (1202) to move in one direction.

[0109] The cartridge drive unit (1300) comprises a cartridge reciprocating motor (1301) that provides power for the reciprocating movement of the fixed block (1202), a belt (1302) connected to the cartridge reciprocating motor (1301), and a first support block (1303) and a second support block (1304) that rotatably support both ends of the belt (1302). As shown in FIG. 28, the belt (1302) is fitted into an insertion part (1204) formed in the fixed block (1202), and a clip part (1205) is provided in the insertion part (1204). The clip part (1205) fixes the belt (1302) and the fixed block (1202) so that they move together. With this configuration, after the sample of the cartridge (103) mounted in the cartridge holder (102) is completed in the optical system (104), the cartridge holder (102) is moved forward, and the discharge mechanism (106) is moved to the rear of the cartridge holder (102) to discharge the cartridges (103) mounted in each slot (602a, 602b, 602c). The discharge mechanism (106) may selectively provide a first mode in which the cartridge (103) is completely discharged from the cartridge holder (102) or a second mode in which a portion of the cartridge (103) is exposed from the end of the cartridge holder (102).

[0110] As illustrated in FIG. 29, the diagnostic device according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a main body part (200) that forms the exterior shape, and an entrance / exit port (210) formed in the main body part (200) is formed on the front or front side of the main body part (200) and is provided to be openable and closable by a door (220). As illustrated in FIG. 29 and FIG. 30, the cartridge (103) can be mounted on the cartridge holder (102) or discharged from the cartridge holder (102) through the entrance / exit port (210) provided on the front side of the main body part (200).

[0111]

[0112] The embodiments of the present invention described above are merely illustrative, and those skilled in the art will readily understand that various modifications and equivalent alternative embodiments are possible therefrom. Therefore, it will be understood that the present invention is not limited only to the forms mentioned in the detailed description above. Accordingly, the true technical scope of protection of the present invention should be determined by the technical spirit of the appended claims. Furthermore, the present invention should be understood to include all modifications, equivalents, and substitutions within the spirit and scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. In a diagnostic device for measuring a sample using a cartridge, A cartridge holder having at least one slot into which a cartridge is mounted; An optical system for measuring a sample of the cartridge mounted in the cartridge holder; and A diagnostic device for measuring a sample using a cartridge, characterized by including: a discharge mechanism for discharging the cartridge after measurement is completed from the cartridge holder.

2. In Paragraph 1, A diagnostic device for measuring a sample using a cartridge characterized by including a heating part that provides heat to the cartridge mounted in the cartridge holder.

3. In Paragraph 2, The above slots are provided in multiple numbers in the cartridge holder, A diagnostic device for measuring a sample using a cartridge characterized by the heating unit providing heat to each of the slots.

4. In Paragraph 2, A control system that controls the heating unit and the discharge mechanism, and A diagnostic device for measuring a sample using a cartridge, characterized by including a user interface that communicates with the control system and displays the status of the slot so that the user can monitor the status of the slot of the cartridge holder in real time.

5. In Paragraph 1, The above discharge mechanism is, A shaft installed by extending in one direction; An exhaust motor that generates rotational motion; and A remover that ejects the cartridge mounted in the cartridge holder by moving forward along the shaft from a groove position to a selected slot of the cartridge holder by rotational movement of the ejection motor in a first direction; A diagnostic device for measuring a sample using a cartridge characterized by including 6. In Paragraph 5, A diagnostic device for measuring a sample using a cartridge, characterized in that the remover returns to the home position by moving backward along the shaft from the cartridge holder by rotational movement in a second direction opposite to the first direction of the discharge motor.

7. In Paragraph 5, The above discharge mechanism is installed at the groove position of the remover and includes a bracket that supports the remover so that it does not rotate due to external impact. A diagnostic device for measuring a sample using a cartridge characterized in that the above discharge mechanism is installed at the home position of the remover and includes a home sensor that senses when the remover returns to the home position.

8. In Paragraph 5, The above cartridge includes a first end positioned on the front side and a second end positioned on the rear side, and extends in one direction from the first end to the second end, and The above cartridge is mounted in the cartridge holder on the front side, and A diagnostic device for measuring a sample using a cartridge characterized in that the cartridge, after the above measurement is completed, is discharged to the front side by the above discharge mechanism.

9. In Paragraph 5, A diagnostic device characterized in that the above optical system moves together with the above remover.

10. In Paragraph 5, A diagnostic device for measuring a sample using a cartridge, characterized in that the above discharge mechanism further includes a slot selection drive unit that moves the remover in a direction perpendicular to the forward direction in which the remover moves.

11. In Paragraph 1, A diagnostic device for measuring a sample using a cartridge, characterized by further including a camera that moves together with the optical system and recognizes an identification mark displayed on the cartridge.

12. In Paragraph 1, A diagnostic device for measuring a sample using a cartridge, characterized by further including a temperature sensor that moves together with the optical system and senses the temperature of the cartridge in a non-contact manner.

13. In Paragraph 1, A plurality of cartridges are mounted in the above cartridge holder, and A diagnostic device for measuring samples using cartridges, characterized in that the optical system moves to the upper portion of the plurality of cartridges and independently measures the sample of each cartridge.

14. In Paragraph 1, The above cartridge holder is, A pressure member that elastically presses the cartridge toward the optical system to maintain a constant distance between the cartridge and the optical system; and A diagnostic device for measuring a sample using a cartridge characterized by including a stopper that regulates the movement range of the cartridge pressurized by the above-mentioned pressurizing part.

15. In Paragraph 10, The above slot selection drive unit is, A coupling part where the above optical system and the above discharge mechanism are combined; A first guide bar that guides the above-mentioned coupling portion in one direction; A transfer motor that provides power to reciprocate the above-mentioned coupling part; A diagnostic device for measuring a sample using a cartridge characterized by including a guide shaft coupled to the shaft of the above-mentioned transfer motor.

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