JP2020153680A - Automatic analyzer - Google Patents

Abstract

To easily remove a specific reagent bottle from an automatic analyzer equipped with a reagent auto-loading mechanism.SOLUTION: An automatic analyzer in accordance with an embodiment includes a reagent storage, a storage unit, a selection unit, and a reagent auto-loading mechanism. The reagent storage stores a plurality of reagent bottles. The storage unit stores cap information indicating whether at least one or more of the plurality of reagent bottles require a cap for storage. The selection unit selects a specific reagent bottle based on the cap information. The automatic reagent loading mechanism transfers the selected specific reagent bottle from the reagent storage to a reagent loading unit where the reagent bottle is loaded.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Embodiments of the present invention relate to an automatic analyzer.

There is known an automatic analyzer having a mechanism (reagent automatic loading mechanism) for automatically transferring a reagent bottle to a reagent storage when a reagent container (reagent bottle) is charged into a reagent charging unit. In the reagent automatic loading mechanism, the reagent bottle is automatically transferred from the reagent storage to the reagent charging section even when the reagent bottle is taken out.

Further, in the reagent bottle used in the automatic analyzer, for example, in order to prevent deterioration of the reagent, a lid (cap) can be attached to the reagent outlet of the reagent bottle. For example, some reagent bottles containing specific reagents (specific reagent bottles) are recommended to be capped during storage (the period during which the device is turned off).

In an automatic analyzer equipped with an automatic reagent loading mechanism, for example, when a specific reagent bottle is to be taken out, the operator individually displays the reagent bottle on the screen displaying the reagent bottle information (reagent storage information) in the reagent storage. Must be selected. Therefore, when it is desired to take out a plurality of reagent bottles, the operator needs to select all of the plurality of reagent bottles, which is troublesome.

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2011-13235

An object to be solved by the present invention is to easily take out a specific reagent bottle in an automatic analyzer provided with an automatic reagent loading mechanism.

The automatic analyzer according to the embodiment includes a reagent storage, a storage unit, a selection unit, and an automatic reagent loading mechanism. The reagent storage stores a plurality of reagent bottles. The storage unit stores cap information indicating whether a cap is required for storage of at least one or more specific reagent bottles among the plurality of reagent bottles. The selection unit selects a specific reagent bottle based on the cap information. The reagent automatic loading mechanism transfers the selected specific reagent bottle from the reagent storage to the reagent charging section where the reagent bottle is charged.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of an automatic analyzer according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the analysis mechanism of FIG. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the analysis mechanism of FIG. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an operation example of the reagent storage information generation process according to the first embodiment. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the reagent library according to the first embodiment. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of barcode information according to the first embodiment. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of reagent storage information according to the first embodiment. FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an operation example of the reagent bottle removal process according to the first embodiment. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a display example of the reagent storage window according to the first embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a display example of the cleaning window according to the first embodiment. FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing an example of the automatic analyzer according to the second embodiment. FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an operation example of the cap confirmation process according to the second embodiment. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a display example of the reagent storage window according to the second embodiment. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a display example of the confirmation window according to the second embodiment. FIG. 15 is a block diagram showing an example of the automatic analyzer according to the third embodiment. FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing an operation example of the return forgetting confirmation process according to the third embodiment. FIG. 17 is a diagram showing a display example of the confirmation window according to the third embodiment. FIG. 18 is a block diagram showing an example of the automatic analyzer according to the fourth embodiment. FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing an operation example of the cap forgetting confirmation process according to the fourth embodiment. FIG. 20 is a diagram showing a display example of the confirmation window according to the fourth embodiment.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the automatic analyzer will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

(First Embodiment)
FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of an automatic analyzer according to the first embodiment. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, the automatic analyzer 1 according to the first embodiment includes an analysis mechanism 2, an analysis circuit 3, a drive mechanism 4, an input interface 5, a display 6, a communication interface 7, and a storage circuit 8 (memory). A unit) and a control circuit 9 (control unit).

The analysis mechanism 2 mixes a sample such as a standard sample or a test sample with reagents used in various test items set for the sample. Analytical mechanism 2 measures a mixture of sample and reagent and produces, for example, standard data and test data associated with absorbance. In addition, the analysis mechanism 2 measures the mixed solution of the sample and the reagent, and generates, for example, standard data and test data associated with the electrode potential.

The analysis circuit 3 is a processor that generates calibration data, analysis data, and the like by analyzing the generated standard data and test data. The analysis circuit 3 reads an operation program from the storage circuit 8 and generates calibration data, analysis data, and the like according to the read operation program. For example, the analysis circuit 3 generates calibration data showing the relationship between the standard data and the preset standard value for the standard sample based on the standard data. Further, the analysis circuit 3 generates analysis data based on the test data and the calibration data of the test items corresponding to the test data. The analytical data includes data in which the concentration value is associated with the activity value of the enzyme and data in which the concentration of a desired ion in the sample is recorded in time series. The analysis circuit 3 outputs the generated calibration data, analysis data, and the like to the control circuit 9.

The drive mechanism 4 drives the analysis mechanism 2 under the control of the control circuit 9. The drive mechanism 4 is realized by, for example, a gear, a stepping motor, a belt conveyor, a lead screw, and the like. For example, the drive mechanism 4 rotates the reaction disk 104, which will be described later, at a predetermined rotation angle. The predetermined rotation angle is, for example, an angle of rotation in one cycle described later. Further, the drive mechanism 4 rotates the reagent rack of the reagent storage 102, which will be described later.

The input interface 5 receives, for example, the setting of analysis parameters of each test item related to the sample requested to be measured via the hospital network NW by the operation of the operator. The input interface 5 is realized by, for example, a mouse, a keyboard, and a touch pad on which instructions are input by touching an operation surface. The input interface 5 is connected to the control circuit 9, converts an operation instruction input from the operator into an electric signal, and outputs the electric signal to the control circuit 9.

In the present specification, the input interface 5 is not limited to the one provided with physical operating parts such as a mouse and a keyboard. For example, the input interface 5 may be a processing circuit that receives an electric signal corresponding to an operation instruction input from an external input device provided separately from the automatic analyzer 1 and outputs the electric signal to the control circuit 9. Good.

The display 6 is connected to the control circuit 9 and displays data representing a display target received from the control circuit 9. The data includes a reagent storage window, a washing window and a confirmation window. The display 6 corresponds to, for example, a CRT display, a liquid crystal display, an organic EL display, an LED display, a plasma display, and the like.

The display 6 may be equipped with a touch panel. In this case, the display 6 may have the function of the input interface 5.

The communication interface 7 connects to, for example, the hospital network NW. The communication interface 7 performs data communication with the HIS (Hospital Information System) via the hospital network NW. The communication interface 7 may perform data communication with HIS via an inspection department system connected to the hospital network NW.

The storage circuit 8 includes a recording medium that can be read by a processor, such as a magnetic recording medium, an optical recording medium, or a semiconductor memory. The storage circuit 8 is not necessarily realized by a single storage device. For example, the storage circuit 8 may be realized by a plurality of storage devices.

Further, the storage circuit 8 stores the inspection order input from the operator, the inspection order received by the communication interface 7 via the hospital network NW, and the like. The order information includes the sample ID (reagent name), the test items required for the sample to be measured, and the measurement order related to the test. The storage circuit 8 stores various set values for executing a series of operations of each part of the automatic analyzer 1 in one cycle. The storage circuit 8 stores the operation program read by the control circuit 9.

In addition, the storage circuit 8 stores reagent libraries related to a plurality of reagents. Reagent information and bottle information are associated with the reagent library. Reagent information includes, for example, reagent name, barcode ID, reagent type, number of remaining warning tests, and stable days after the start of use. Bottle information includes expiration date, lot and bottle number, and so on. The reagent information in the first embodiment may include, for example, information (cap information) regarding "whether or not to attach a cap to the reagent bottle during storage" (cap necessity). It should be noted that cap information indicating whether a cap is required for storage of a specific reagent bottle may be stored.

The control circuit 9 is a processor that functions as the center of the automatic analyzer 1. For example, the control circuit 9 outputs a control signal for driving each part of the analysis mechanism 2 to the drive mechanism 4. The control circuit 9 realizes a function corresponding to this operation program by executing the operation program stored in the storage circuit 8. The control circuit 9 may include a memory for storing at least a part of the data stored in the storage circuit 8. The function of the control circuit 9 according to the first embodiment will be described later.

2 and 3 are diagrams showing a configuration example of the analysis mechanism of FIG. In FIGS. 2 and 3, the first side surface 114, the second side surface 116, the third side surface 138 and the fourth side surface 140 define the outer boundary of the analysis mechanism 2. The first side surface 114 and the second side surface 116 face each other, and the third side surface 138 and the fourth side surface 140 face each other.

The analysis mechanism 2 includes a reagent storage 102, a reaction disk 104, and a reagent charging unit 118. The reagent storage 102 and the reaction disk 104 have different rotation axes as drive mechanisms. The reaction disc 104 is spaced apart from the reagent storage 102. Further, at least a part of the installation range of the reaction disk 104 overlaps with the installation range of the reagent storage 102. The reagent storage 102 and the reaction disk 104 may be arranged next to each other, for example, on the same plane.

The reagent storage 102 keeps a plurality of reagent bottles 224a to 224 containing reagents that react with a predetermined component contained in the standard sample or a predetermined component contained in the test sample cold. Since the reaction disk 104 is arranged above the reagent storage 102, the reagent storage 102 has a structure that is difficult for the operator to directly access regardless of whether the device is operating or stopped. The structure that is difficult to access directly means a structure in which the operator himself cannot easily take the reagent bottle in and out of the reagent storage 102. A reagent rack is rotatably provided in the reagent storage 102. The reagent rack holds a plurality of reagent bottles 224a to n arranged in an annular shape. The reagent rack is rotated by the drive mechanism 4.

Each of the plurality of reagent bottles 224a to n has at least one kind of reagent. In the case of a reagent bottle having two types of reagents, one container (outer cyclic array container 208an described later) contains the first reagent, and the other container (inner cyclic array container 210an described later) contains the first reagent. ) Contains a second reagent paired with the first reagent. Hereinafter, the case of a reagent bottle having two types of reagents will be described. Further, for example, a bar code of a number string associated with information such as a reagent name and a bottle type is attached to each of the plurality of reagent bottles 224a to n. The barcode attached to the reagent bottle in the first embodiment may contain, for example, cap information.

Specifically, the reagent storage 102 has an outer annular array container 208a-n moving along the first annular path 209 and an inner annular array container 210an moving along the second annular path 211. Have. Each of the first circular path 209 and the second circular path 211 is concentric.

The reaction disk 104 holds a plurality of reaction tubes 108a to n in a circular arrangement. The reaction disk 104 is alternately rotated and stopped at a predetermined time interval (hereinafter referred to as one cycle), for example, 4.5 seconds, by the drive mechanism 4. The plurality of reaction tubes 108a to n are formed of, for example, glass. Hereinafter, the path through which the reaction tubes 108a to n move is referred to as a reaction tube circular path.

The reagent charging section 118 is provided on the first side surface 114 of the analysis mechanism 2. The reagent charging unit 118 has a mounting rack 120 having a plurality of carriers 124a to n for transporting a plurality of sample containers, and a plurality of slots 122a to n for receiving a plurality of reagent bottles 224a to n. In the example of FIG. 2, the carriers 124a, b, n and the reagent bottles 224b, n are inserted in any of the slots in the mounting rack 120. In the example of FIG. 3, the carriers 124b, n and the reagent bottles b, n are inserted in any of the slots in the mounting rack 120. Each of the plurality of carriers 124a to 124 holds six sample containers, but the number of sample containers is not limited to this. A bar code of a number string associated with information such as a patient ID is attached to each of the plurality of sample containers.

The reagent charging unit 118 further has a positioner 126 for carrying a plurality of carriers 124a to n and a plurality of reagent bottles 224a to n. The positioner 126 corresponds to a part of the drive mechanism 4. The positioner 126 has an arm 130 that engages with a plurality of carriers 124a-n and a plurality of reagent bottles 224a-n. The positioner 126 and the arm 130 take out the plurality of carriers 124a to 124a to n and the plurality of reagent bottles 224a to n inserted into the slots 122a to n, and various along the positioner track portion 128 provided on the first side surface 114. It operates to transport a plurality of transporters 124a to n and a plurality of reagent bottles 224a to n to various locations.

The positioner 126 has a bar code reader for reading the bar code affixed to each of the plurality of sample containers and the plurality of reagent bottles 224a to n held by each of the plurality of carriers 124a to n. For example, when the positioner 126 transfers the carrier 124a, the barcode reader reads the barcode attached to each of the plurality of sample containers held by the carrier 124a. Further, for example, when the positioner 126 transfers the reagent bottle 224b, the barcode reader reads the barcode attached to the reagent bottle 224. The read bar code information (bar code information) is output to the control circuit 9. In the following, unless otherwise specified, only the barcode attached to the reagent bottle will be described.

The barcode is not limited to the barcode attached to the reagent container and the reagent bottle. For example, an IC tag using RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) may be attached, and a positioner 126 or the like may have a reader corresponding to these IC tags.

The analysis mechanism 2 has a first carrier shuttle 134 and a second carrier shuttle 136 in the vicinity of the second side surface 116. As shown in FIG. 2, the arm 130 included in the positioner 126 engages with the carrier 124a. As shown in FIG. 3, the carrier 124a is transferred to the first carrier shuttle 134 by rotating the arm 130 and moving the positioner 126.

The first carrier shuttle 134 has a first truck portion 142 extending from the first side surface 114 to the second side surface 116. The first track unit 142 has a track device composed of, for example, a belt and a chain. The first carrier shuttle 134 has a first motor 146 for driving the first truck portion 142 on the second side surface 116 side. The first carrier shuttle 134 has a first sensor 150 on the first side surface 114 side.

The second carrier shuttle 136 is arranged adjacent to the first carrier shuttle 134. The second carrier shuttle 136 has a second truck portion 144 extending from the first side surface 114 to the second side surface 116. The second track unit 144 has, for example, a track device. The second carrier shuttle 136 has a second motor 148 for driving the second truck portion 144 on the second side surface 116 side. The second carrier shuttle 136 has a second sensor 152 on the first side surface 114 side.

For example, as shown in FIG. 3, the first carrier shuttle 134 can transport the carrier 124a arranged on the first truck portion 142 to an arbitrary position. The second carrier shuttle 136 can transport the carrier 124c arranged on the second truck portion 144 to an arbitrary position.

(Transfer of reagent bottle)
The analysis mechanism 2 has a reagent bottle transport mechanism 222 for taking in and out a reagent bottle from an opening provided in the reagent storage 102. The reagent bottle transport mechanism 222 has an arm (not shown). As shown in FIG. 2, the arm of the reagent bottle transport mechanism 222 engages with the reagent bottle 224a. The reagent bottle 224a is stored in the reagent storage 102 by the operation of the reagent bottle transport mechanism 222. Alternatively, the reagent bottle 224a is taken out from the reagent storage 102 by the operation of the reagent bottle transport mechanism 222. The positioner 126, the reagent bottle transport mechanism 222, and the like are collectively referred to as a reagent automatic loading mechanism.

The analysis mechanism 2 further has a first pipetting mechanism, a second pipetting mechanism, and a third pipetting mechanism (none of which are shown). The first pipetting mechanism is provided, for example, on the inner circumference of the reagent storage 102 and on the outer circumference of the reaction disk 104. The second pipetting mechanism is provided, for example, on the inner circumference of the reaction disk 104. The third pipetting mechanism is provided on the outer periphery of the reagent storage 102, for example. The positions where the first pipetting mechanism, the second pipetting mechanism, and the third pipetting mechanism are provided are not limited to the above positions.

The first pipetting mechanism has a first reagent dispensing arm. The first reagent dispensing arm is provided by the drive mechanism 4 so as to be movable up and down in the vertical direction and rotatably in the horizontal direction. The first reagent dispensing arm holds the first reagent dispensing probe at one end.

The first reagent dispensing probe rotates along the arc-shaped first rotation trajectory as the first reagent dispensing arm rotates. A first reagent suction position is provided on the first rotation orbit where the first reagent dispensing probe sucks the first reagent from the reagent bottle (outer annular array container). The first reagent suction position corresponds to, for example, the intersection of the first rotation trajectory and the first annular path 209. Further, on the first rotation orbit, a first reagent discharge position for discharging the first reagent sucked by the first reagent dispensing probe to the reaction vessel is provided. The first reagent discharge position corresponds to, for example, the intersection of the first rotation orbit and the reaction tube annular path.

A cleaning position for cleaning the first reagent dispensing probe may be provided at a position different from the first reagent suction position and the first reagent discharge position on the first rotation orbit. Further, a cleaning tank for cleaning the first reagent dispensing probe may be provided at the cleaning position.

The first reagent dispensing probe sucks the first reagent from the outer annular array container located immediately below the first reagent suction position under the control of the control circuit 9. Then, the first reagent dispensing probe discharges the sucked first reagent to the reaction tube located immediately below the first reagent discharge position under the control of the control circuit 9. The first reagent dispensing probe performs this series of suction and discharge operations (dispensing operation), for example, once in one cycle.

The second pipetting mechanism has a second reagent dispensing arm. The second reagent dispensing arm is provided by the drive mechanism 4 so as to be movable up and down in the vertical direction and rotatably in the horizontal direction. The second reagent dispensing arm holds the second reagent dispensing probe at one end.

The second reagent dispensing probe rotates along the arc-shaped second rotation trajectory as the second reagent dispensing arm rotates. A second reagent suction position is provided on the second rotation orbit where the second reagent dispensing probe sucks the second reagent from the reagent bottle (inner annular array container). The second reagent suction position corresponds to, for example, the intersection of the second rotation trajectory and the second annular path 211. Further, on the second rotation orbit, a second reagent discharge position for discharging the second reagent sucked by the second reagent dispensing probe to the reaction vessel is provided. The second reagent discharge position corresponds to, for example, the intersection of the second rotation trajectory and the reaction tube annular path.

In addition, a washing position where the second reagent dispensing probe is washed may be provided at a position different from the second reagent suction position and the second reagent discharge position on the second rotation orbit. Further, a washing tank for washing the second reagent dispensing probe may be provided at the washing position.

The second reagent dispensing probe sucks the second reagent from the outer annular array container located immediately below the second reagent suction position under the control of the control circuit 9. Then, the second reagent dispensing probe discharges the sucked second reagent into the reaction tube located immediately below the second reagent discharge position under the control of the control circuit 9. The second reagent dispensing probe carries out this dispensing operation, for example, once in one cycle.

The third pipetting mechanism has a sample dispensing arm. The sample dispensing arm is provided by the drive mechanism 4 so as to be movable up and down in the vertical direction and rotatably in the horizontal direction. The sample dispensing arm holds the sample dispensing probe at one end.

The sample dispensing probe rotates along the arc-shaped third rotation trajectory as the sample dispensing arm rotates. A first sample suction position and a second sample suction position where the sample dispensing probe sucks the sample from the sample container are provided on the third rotation orbit. The first sample suction position corresponds to, for example, the intersection of the third rotation trajectory and the first track portion 142. The second sample suction position corresponds to, for example, the intersection of the third rotation trajectory and the second track portion 144. Further, on the third rotation orbit, a sample discharge position for discharging the sample sucked by the sample dispensing probe to the reaction vessel is provided. The sample discharge position corresponds to, for example, the intersection of the third rotation orbit and the reaction tube annular path.

Even if a cleaning position for cleaning the sample dispensing probe is provided at a position different from the first sample suction position, the second sample suction position, and the sample discharge position on the third rotation orbit. Good. Further, a cleaning tank for cleaning the sample dispensing probe may be provided at the cleaning position.

The sample dispensing probe sucks the sample from the sample container located directly below the first sample suction position or from the sample container located directly below the second sample suction position according to the control of the control circuit 9. Then, the sample dispensing probe discharges the sucked sample to the reaction tube located immediately below the sample discharge position according to the control of the control circuit 9. The sample dispensing probe performs this dispensing operation, for example, once in one cycle.

Although not shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the analysis mechanism 2 further includes an electrode unit, a photometric unit, a cleaning unit, and a stirring unit. The electrode unit measures the electrolyte concentration of the mixed solution of the sample and the reagent discharged into the reaction tube. The photometric unit optically measures a predetermined component in the mixed solution. The cleaning unit cleans the inside of the reaction tube after the measurement of the mixed solution is completed in the electrode unit or the photometric unit. The stirring unit has a stirrer, and the stirrer stirs the sample, reagents, mixed solution, etc. contained in the reaction tube located immediately below the stirring position on the reaction disk 104.

Next, each function of the control circuit 9 according to the first embodiment will be described. The control circuit 9 shown in FIG. 1 realizes a function corresponding to the operation program stored in the storage circuit 8 by executing the operation program. For example, the control circuit 9 executes a system control function 91, an acquisition function 92 (acquisition unit), a generation function 93 (generation unit), an extraction function 94 (selection unit), and a display control function 95 (display) by executing an operation program. It has a control unit).

In the first embodiment, the case where the system control function 91, the acquisition function 92, the generation function 93, the extraction function 94, and the display control function 95 are realized by a single processor will be described, but the present invention is not limited thereto. .. For example, a control circuit is configured by combining a plurality of independent processors, and a system control function 91, an acquisition function 92, a generation function 93, an extraction function 94, and a display control function 95 are realized by executing an operation program by each processor. It doesn't matter. This also applies to other embodiments thereafter.

By the system control function 91, the control circuit 9 controls each part of the automatic analyzer 1 in an integrated manner, for example, based on the input information input from the input interface 5. Specifically, the control circuit 9 rotates the reagent rack and the reaction disk 104 of the reagent storage 102, rotates and dispenses the sample dispensing probe, and rotates and dispenses the first reagent dispensing probe. It controls the injection operation, the rotation operation and the dispensing operation of the second reagent dispensing probe, and the like. In addition, the control circuit 9 controls the transport operation of the positioner 126, the first carrier shuttle 134, the second carrier shuttle 136, and the reagent bottle transport mechanism 222.

Further, the control circuit 9 executes each function related to the reagent storage information generation process and the process of taking out a specific reagent bottle (reagent bottle take-out process) according to the read operation program. Each of the above functions includes, for example, an acquisition function 92, a generation function 93, an extraction function 94, and a display control function 95. It should be noted that each of the above functions may include some functions of the system control function 91.

As used herein, the term "specific reagent bottle" means a reagent bottle that needs to be capped during storage. “At the time of storage” indicates a state in which the reagent is not stored in the reagent storage 102, or a state in which the automatic analyzer is stored in the reagent storage 102 and the power of the automatic analyzer is turned off (power off period).

The acquisition function 92 is a function for acquiring information about the reagent bottle. Specifically, the control circuit 9 acquires the barcode information of the barcode attached to the reagent bottle by the acquisition function 92. Further, the control circuit 9 acquires information (cap information) regarding the necessity of a cap based on at least one of the acquired barcode information and the reagent library stored in the storage circuit 8.

The generation function 93 is a function of generating reagent storage information indicating information about reagent bottles arranged in the reagent storage. Specifically, the control circuit 9 uses the generation function 93 to provide at least the reagent storage position in which the reagent bottle is installed, the reagent name of the reagent contained in the reagent bottle, and the cap information of the reagent are associated with each other. Generate. The generated reagent storage information is stored in the storage circuit 8. In addition, the reagent storage information may include the number of remaining tests of the reagent, the expiration date of the reagent, the stabilization period of the reagent, and the like. In addition, the reagent storage information may include the order in which the reagent bottles are stored in the reagent storage (storage order).

The take-out function 94 is a function for automatically taking out a specific reagent bottle. Specifically, the control circuit 9 receives a take-out instruction regarding a specific reagent bottle based on the cap information, and then uses the take-out function 94 to select a specific reagent bottle among a plurality of reagent bottles arranged in the reagent storage. The take-out instruction is output to the drive mechanism 4 and the like.

The display control function 95 is a function for displaying a reagent storage window, a washing window, and the like, which will be described later. Specifically, the control circuit 9 causes the reagent storage window to be displayed on the display 6 by the display control function 95. Alternatively, the control circuit 9 causes the display 6 to display the cleaning window by the display control function 95.

Next, the operation of the automatic analyzer 1 according to the first embodiment configured as described above will be described according to the processing procedure of the control circuit 9.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an operation example of the reagent storage information generation process according to the first embodiment. The flowchart of FIG. 4 is started by, for example, the control circuit 9 executing the reagent storage information generation processing program at the timing when the operator finishes charging the reagent bottle or the like into the reagent charging unit 118 of the automatic analyzer 1. The reagent.

(Step S101)
When the reagent storage information generation process is started, the control circuit 9 executes the acquisition function 92. When the acquisition function 92 is executed, the control circuit 9 acquires the barcode information of the barcode attached to the reagent bottle charged into the reagent charging unit 118. Then, the control circuit 9 collates the reagent name included in the barcode information with the reagent name included in the reagent library stored in the storage circuit 8.

(Step S102)
After acquiring the barcode information, the control circuit 9 acquires the cap information based on at least one of the barcode information and the reagent library by the acquisition function 92. In the first embodiment, cap information is included in at least one of the barcode information and the reagent library. The reagent library and the barcode information including the cap information according to the first embodiment are illustrated below.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the reagent library according to the first embodiment. For example, as shown in FIG. 5, the reagent library 302 according to the first embodiment is associated with reagent information and bottle information with respect to the reagent name “R1_Lib1”. Reagent information includes reagent name, barcode ID, reagent type, number of remaining warning tests, and stable days after use. Further, the reagent information includes cap information 304 in which the necessity of cap can be selected. In FIG. 5, since the necessity of the cap is selected as “required”, it can be seen that the reagent bottle containing the reagent “R1_Lib1” requires a cap during storage.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of barcode information according to the first embodiment. For example, as shown in FIG. 6, the barcode information 306 according to the first embodiment is represented by an 8-digit number. When the barcode number starts from the left, the reagent name is assigned to the number with the first starting position and four digits. Similarly, the 5th and 1st digit of the start position is assigned the bottle type, the 6th and 1st digit of the start position is assigned the reagent type and the last (8th start position) 1 A checksum is assigned to the digit number. Further, in the barcode information 306, as the cap information 307, the necessity of the cap is assigned to the number having the seventh start position and one digit. For example, if the item of cap necessity in the read barcode information is (2: required), the reagent bottle to which the barcode of the read barcode information is affixed requires a cap during storage. I understand.

(Step S103)
After acquiring the cap information, the control circuit 9 executes the generation function 93. When the generation function 93 is executed, the control circuit 9 generates reagent storage information in which at least the installation position of the reagent bottle, the reagent name of the reagent contained in the reagent bottle, and the cap information of the reagent are associated with each other. The reagent storage information according to the first embodiment will be illustrated below.

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of reagent storage information according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 7, the reagent storage information 308 includes the reagent bottle installation position (item “position”), the reagent name, the number of remaining tests, the reagent expiration date (item “expiration date”), and the reagent. The stabilization period (item "stability period") and cap information (item "cap required") are associated with each other. In FIG. 7, since the reagent name “reagent A” at position “1” and the reagent name “reagent D” at position “4” both indicate whether or not a cap is required, “reagent A” and “reagent D”. It can be seen that each of the reagent bottles contained in the above requires a cap during storage. The reagent storage information may be associated with the plurality of reagent bottles charged into the reagent charging unit 118 and the positions of the plurality of slots 122a to n in the mounting rack 120.

When creating the reagent storage information, if the cap information included in the reagent library and the barcode information is different (for example, cap is required or not in the reagent library, and cap is required or not in the barcode information "2: required". ”), The control circuit 9 may display a confirmation window on the display 6 to the effect that the cap information is different by the display control function 95.

After generating the reagent storage information, the control circuit 9 ends the reagent storage information generation process. After the reagent storage information is generated, the control circuit 9 may display the reagent storage window (described later) based on the reagent storage information on the display 6 by the display control function 95. Then, the control circuit 9 may end the reagent storage information generation process after displaying the reagent storage window.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an operation example of the reagent bottle removal process according to the first embodiment. In the flowchart of FIG. 8, for example, when the reagent storage information generation process and the inspection in the automatic analyzer 1 are completed and the operator inputs a predetermined instruction from the input interface 5, the control circuit 9 programs the reagent bottle take-out process. Is started by executing. As a method for the operator to input a predetermined instruction from the input interface 5, for example, when the "take-out (cap required)" button of the reagent storage window is pressed and the "cleaning start" button of the cleaning window is pressed. There are cases. The reagent storage window and the washing window according to the first embodiment will be described below by way of example.

FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a display example of the reagent storage window according to the first embodiment. For example, the reagent storage window 312 shown in FIG. 9 is displayed on the base window 310 displayed on the display 6. The base window 310 displays a character display unit (“standby” in FIG. 9) indicating the state of the automatic analyzer 1, a reagent storage window 312 including reagent storage information, and the like. For example, when the operator presses the “take-out (cap required)” button 314 in the reagent storage window 312, the control circuit 9 starts the reagent bottle take-out process. In the reagent storage window, it is not necessary to display all the information included in the reagent storage information. For example, in the reagent storage information of FIG. 9, the display of the expiration date is omitted.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a display example of the cleaning window according to the first embodiment. For example, the cleaning window 322 shown in FIG. 9 is displayed on the base window 320 displayed on the display 6. On the base window 320, the above-mentioned character display unit, a cleaning window 322 related to cleaning of the automatic analyzer (device cleaning), and the like are displayed. The device cleaning includes cleaning of each of the dispensing probes described above, cleaning of a plurality of reaction tubes 108a to n held in the reaction disk 104, and the like. For example, when the operator presses the “cleaning start” button 324 in the cleaning window 322, the control circuit 9 executes device cleaning and starts the reagent bottle removal process. Since "device cleaning" is often performed at the end of work of the automatic analyzer, it is also called "cleaning at end of work".

(Step S111)
When the reagent bottle removal process is started, the control circuit 9 receives a removal instruction regarding a specific reagent bottle. Specifically, for example, after the "remove (cap required)" button 314 in the reagent storage window 312 is pressed (that is, after the reagent bottle removal process is started), the cap necessity "required" in the reagent storage information is displayed. Items 316 and 318 are automatically selected, and the control circuit 9 receives a take-out instruction regarding the reagent bottle (specific reagent bottle) associated with these items. When the "cleaning start" button 324 in the washing window 322 is pressed, the operation is the same as when the "take-out (cap required)" button 314 in the reagent storage window 312 is pressed.

(Step S112)
After receiving the removal instructions for the particular reagent bottle, the control circuit 9 executes the removal function 94. When the extraction function 94 is executed, the control circuit 9 transfers a specific reagent bottle from the reagent storage to the reagent charging unit 118 based on the extraction instruction.

For example, when "Reagent A" of item 316 of FIG. 9 is taken out, assuming that the reagent bottle containing "Reagent A" is the reagent bottle 224a of FIG. 2, the drive mechanism 4 follows the control of the control circuit 9. The reagent rack of the reagent storage 102 is rotated to move the reagent bottle 224a directly below the opening provided in the reagent storage 102. The reagent bottle 224a moved to the opening is taken out from the reagent storage 102 by the operation of the reagent bottle transport mechanism 222. The reagent bottle 224a taken out from the opening is engaged with the arm 130 and transferred by the positioner 126 to any of the plurality of slots 122a to n.

When all the specific reagent bottles are transferred to the reagent charging unit 118, the control circuit 9 ends the reagent bottle removal process. When the reagent storage information includes the storage order, the control circuit 9 may transfer the reagent bottles to a series of adjacent slots 122a to n in the storage order according to the storage order.

As described above, the automatic analyzer according to the first embodiment has a reagent storage for storing a plurality of reagent bottles and a cap for at least one or more specific reagent bottles among the plurality of reagent bottles at the time of storage. The storage unit that stores cap information indicating whether it is required, the selection unit that selects a specific reagent bottle based on the cap information, and the selected specific reagent bottle are loaded from the reagent storage. It is equipped with an automatic reagent loading mechanism for transferring to the reagent charging section.

Further, in the automatic analyzer according to the first embodiment, the selection unit selects a specific reagent bottle by receiving an instruction from the operator. Alternatively, the selection unit selects a specific reagent bottle by receiving an instruction to start washing at the end of work.

Therefore, according to this automatic analyzer, a specific reagent bottle can be easily taken out in the automatic analyzer provided with the reagent automatic loading mechanism. Therefore, according to this automatic analyzer, only the reagent bottles that require a cap can be selectively taken out by a simple method, and the burden on the operator is reduced.

(Second Embodiment)
In the first embodiment, the process of automatically taking out a specific reagent bottle has been described. In the second embodiment, the process of confirming the cap of the reagent bottle will be described.

FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing an example of the automatic analyzer according to the second embodiment. For example, as shown in FIG. 11, the automatic analyzer 1A according to the second embodiment includes an analysis mechanism 2, an analysis circuit 3, a drive mechanism 4, an input interface 5, a display 6, a communication interface 7, a storage circuit 8, and a control. The circuit 9A is provided.

Next, each function of the control circuit 9A according to the second embodiment will be described. The control circuit 9A shown in FIG. 11 realizes a function corresponding to the operation program stored in the storage circuit 8 by executing the operation program. For example, the control circuit 9A executes a system control function 91, an acquisition function 92 (acquisition unit), a generation function 93 (generation unit), an extraction function 94 (selection unit), and a display control function 95A (display) by executing an operation program. It has a control unit) and a confirmation function 96 (cap confirmation unit).

The control circuit 9A executes each function related to the cap confirmation process according to the read control program. Each of the above functions includes, for example, a display control function 95A and a confirmation function 96. It should be noted that each of the above functions may include a part of other functions of the control circuit 9A.

The display control function 95A is a function of displaying a confirmation window, which will be described later, in addition to the function of the display control function 95 described above. Specifically, the control circuit 9 displays a confirmation window in front of the reagent storage window by the display control function 95A.

The confirmation function 96 is a function for confirming the cap of a specific reagent bottle. Specifically, the control circuit 9A receives a cap confirmation instruction regarding a specific reagent bottle based on the cap information, and then uses the confirmation function 96 to perform a specific reagent bottle among a plurality of reagent bottles arranged in the reagent storage. An instruction to confirm the cap is output to the drive mechanism 4 or the like. The control circuit 9A then identifies a specific reagent bottle without a cap.

Next, the operation of the automatic analyzer 1A according to the second embodiment configured as described above will be described according to the processing procedure of the control circuit 9A.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an operation example of the cap confirmation process according to the second embodiment. In the flowchart of FIG. 12, for example, when the reagent storage information generation process and the inspection in the automatic analyzer 1A are completed and the operator inputs a predetermined instruction from the input interface 5, the control circuit 9A programs the cap confirmation process. It is started by executing. As a method for the operator to input a predetermined instruction from the input interface 5, for example, there are a case where the "cap confirmation" button of the reagent storage window is pressed and a case where the "end" button of the base window is pressed. .. The "finish" button is a button for turning off the power of the automatic analyzer 1A. Hereinafter, the reagent storage window (base window) according to the second embodiment will be described as an example.

FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a display example of the reagent storage window according to the second embodiment. For example, the reagent storage window 328 shown in FIG. 13 is displayed on the base window 326 displayed on the display 6. In the base window 326, a character display indicating the state of the automatic analyzer 1A, a reagent storage window 328 including reagent storage information, and the like are displayed. For example, when the operator presses the “cap confirmation” button 330 on the reagent storage window 328, the control circuit 9A starts the cap confirmation process. Further, for example, when the operator presses the "end" button 336 on the base window 326, the control circuit 9A starts the cap confirmation process.

(Step S201)
When the cap confirmation process is started, the control circuit 9A receives a cap confirmation instruction regarding a specific reagent bottle. Specifically, for example, after the "cap confirmation" button 330 in the reagent storage window 328 is pressed (that is, after the cap confirmation process has started), the items 332 and items of "required" for cap necessity in the reagent storage information. 334 is automatically selected, and the control circuit 9A receives a cap confirmation instruction regarding the reagent bottle (specific reagent bottle) associated with these items. When the "end" button 336 on the base window 326 is pressed, the operation is the same as when the "cap confirmation" button 330 on the reagent storage window 328 is pressed.

(Step S202)
After receiving the cap confirmation instruction for a particular reagent bottle, the control circuit 9A executes the confirmation function 96. When the confirmation function 96 is executed, the control circuit 9A confirms the presence or absence of a cap for a specific reagent bottle based on the cap confirmation instruction. As a method for confirming the presence or absence of a cap, for example, there are a case where an obstacle sensor (contact sensor) is used and a case where a non-contact sensor such as an ultrasonic sensor and an optical sensor is used. The contact sensor and the non-contact sensor correspond to the "sensor" in the claims.

For example, when confirming the presence or absence of a cap of a reagent bottle (specific reagent bottle) that needs to be capped during storage, which is stored in the reagent storage 102 of FIG. 2, assuming that the reagent bottle to be confirmed is the reagent bottle 224a. The drive mechanism 4 rotates the reagent rack of the reagent storage 102 in accordance with the control of the control circuit 9A, and positions the reagent bottle 224a directly below the first reagent suction position. Then, the drive mechanism 4 lowers the first reagent dispensing probe onto the reagent bottle 224a. At this time, when the contact sensor of the first reagent dispensing probe reacts, that is, when an obstacle is detected, the control circuit 9A has a cap on the reagent bottle 224a (here, the outer annular array container). To determine. On the other hand, when there is no reaction in the contact sensor of the first reagent dispensing probe, that is, when no obstacle is detected, the control circuit 9A determines that the reagent bottle 224a has no cap. The presence or absence of the cap of the inner annular container of the reagent bottle 224a is also the same as above except that the reagent bottle 224a is positioned directly below the second reagent suction position and the second reagent dispensing probe is used. ..

When a non-contact sensor is used, the non-contact sensor may be installed, for example, in at least one of the vicinity of the first reagent suction position and the vicinity of the second reagent suction position. When the reagent bottle is positioned at the reagent suction position, the non-contact sensor detects whether or not the reagent bottle is capped. The non-contact sensor may be installed at an arbitrary position directly above the first annular path 209 and the second annular path 211.

(Step S203)
After confirming the presence or absence of a cap for a specific reagent bottle, the control circuit 9A determines whether or not there is a specific reagent bottle without a cap. If there is a specific reagent bottle without a cap (step S203: YES), that is, if the specific reagent bottle has an uncapped reagent bottle, the process proceeds to step S204. When there is no specific reagent bottle without a cap (step S203: NO), that is, when it is determined that all the caps of the specific reagent bottle are attached, the cap confirmation process is terminated.

(Step S204)
After the specific reagent bottle without a cap is identified, the control circuit 9A executes the display control function 95A. When the display control function 95A is executed, the control circuit 9A displays information on a specific reagent bottle without a cap on the display 6. Specifically, the control circuit 9A displays a confirmation window on the display 6 containing information on a specific reagent bottle without a cap by the display control function 95A. The confirmation window according to the second embodiment is illustrated below.

FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a display example of the confirmation window according to the second embodiment. For example, the confirmation window 338 shown in FIG. 14 is displayed on a layer higher than the base window 326 displayed on the display 6. In the confirmation window 338, for example, "Yes" button 340 and "No" button 342 are displayed with the sentence "A reagent bottle without a cap was found. Do you want to attach a cap? Reagent name: Reagent A". Is displayed.

When the operator presses the “Yes” button 340, the control circuit 9A drives the drive mechanism 4 to remove the reagent bottle containing the displayed reagent (“Reagent A” in FIG. 14) from the reagent storage 102. Transfer to reagent charging section 118. When the operator presses the "No" button 342, the control circuit 9A may store the reagent bottle containing the displayed reagent in the reagent storage information as, for example, information that the cap is not attached.

The timing at which the cap confirmation process is executed in the control circuit 9A is not limited to the above. For example, when the reagent bottle removal process according to the first embodiment is started by pressing the "cleaning start" button in the washing window, the cap confirmation process may be executed after the washing operation is completed.

(Application example of the second embodiment)
In the second embodiment, the process of confirming the cap of a specific reagent bottle stored in the reagent storage has been described. In the application example of the second embodiment, the process of confirming the cap when transferring the reagent bottle using the positioner will be described.

The positioner 126 according to the application example of the second embodiment further has a non-contact sensor near the installation position of the barcode reader. This non-contact sensor, for example, confirms the presence or absence of the reagent bottle cap at the same time as or before and after reading the barcode reader when the positioner 126 transfers the reagent bottle. For example, in this application example, the control circuit 9A executes a cap confirmation process after the reagent bottle removal process is completed, and when the specific reagent bottle is returned from the reagent charging unit 118 to the reagent storage 102 again, a specific one is specified. Detects the presence or absence of a reagent bottle cap. The process after detecting the presence or absence of the cap is substantially the same as that described in the second embodiment.

As described above, the automatic analyzer according to the second embodiment has a reagent storage for storing a plurality of reagent bottles and a plurality of reagent bottles, similarly to the automatic analyzer according to the first embodiment. A storage unit that stores cap information indicating whether a cap is required for storage for at least one specific reagent bottle is selected, and a selection unit that selects a specific reagent bottle based on the cap information. It is provided with an automatic reagent loading mechanism for transferring a specific reagent bottle from the reagent storage to the reagent charging section where the reagent bottle is charged.

Further, the automatic analyzer according to the second embodiment has a sensor that detects whether or not a specific reagent bottle stored in the reagent storage is capped, and a cap based on the result detected by the sensor. It is provided with a cap confirmation unit for confirming the presence or absence of reagent bottles not marked with. Further, the sensor is composed of a contact sensor or a non-contact sensor.

Further, in the automatic analyzer according to the second embodiment, the cap confirmation unit confirms whether or not the reagent bottle is capped by receiving an instruction from the operator. Alternatively, the cap confirmation unit confirms whether or not the reagent bottle is capped by receiving an instruction (completion notification) for the end of cleaning at the end of work.

Therefore, according to this automatic analyzer, it is possible to detect forgetting to close the cap when returning a specific reagent bottle to the reagent storage.

(Third Embodiment)
In the second embodiment, the process of confirming the cap of a specific reagent bottle has been described. In the third embodiment, a process for confirming forgetting to return the specific reagent bottle will be described.

FIG. 15 is a block diagram showing an example of the automatic analyzer according to the third embodiment. For example, as shown in FIG. 15, the automatic analyzer 1B according to the third embodiment includes an analysis mechanism 2, an analysis circuit 3, a drive mechanism 4, an input interface 5, a display 6, a communication interface 7, a storage circuit 8, and a control. The circuit 9B is provided.

Next, each function of the control circuit 9B according to the third embodiment will be described. The control circuit 9B shown in FIG. 15 realizes a function corresponding to the operation program stored in the storage circuit 8 by executing the operation program. For example, the control circuit 9B executes a system control function 91, an acquisition function 92 (acquisition unit), a generation function 93 (generation unit), an extraction function 94 (selection unit), and a display control function 95A (display) by executing an operation program. It has a control unit) and a confirmation function 96A (bottle confirmation unit).

The control circuit 9B executes each function related to the return forgetting confirmation process according to the read control program. Each of the above functions includes, for example, a display control function 95A and a confirmation function 96A. It should be noted that each of the above functions may include a part of other functions of the control circuit 9B.

The confirmation function 96A is a function for confirming whether or not a specific reagent bottle once taken out has been returned to the reagent storage (that is, confirming forgetting to return). Specifically, the control circuit 9B is returned to the reagent storage among the specific reagent bottles once taken out by the confirmation function 96A after receiving the return forgetting confirmation instruction regarding the specific reagent bottle based on the cap information. Identify no specific reagent bottles.

Next, the operation of the automatic analyzer 1B according to the third embodiment configured as described above will be described according to the processing procedure of the control circuit 9B. It should be noted that the return forgetting confirmation process described below shall be executed after the reagent bottle removal process of the first embodiment has been performed. Here, at the same time as the reagent bottle removal process is executed, or after the execution, the control circuit 9B stores the reagent storage information (first reagent storage information) immediately before the specific reagent bottle is taken out from the reagent storage 102. For example, it is assumed that it is stored in a storage circuit 8) or the like.

FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing an operation example of the return forgetting confirmation process according to the third embodiment. In the flowchart of FIG. 16, for example, after the reagent bottle removal process in the first embodiment is completed and the reagent bottle taken out by the operator is stored in the reagent storage again, the operator determines from the input interface 5. At the timing when the instruction is input, the control circuit 9B is started by executing the program for the confirmation process of forgetting to return. As a method for the operator to input a predetermined instruction from the input interface 5, for example, there are a case where the "cap confirmation" button of the reagent storage window is pressed and a case where the "end" button of the base window is pressed. .. The reagent storage window (base window) of FIG. 13 will be illustrated below.

For example, when the operator presses the “cap confirmation” button 330 on the reagent storage window 328, the control circuit 9B starts the return forgetting confirmation process. Further, for example, when the operator presses the "end" button 336 on the base window 326, the control circuit 9B starts the return forgetting confirmation process.

(Step S301)
When the return forgetting confirmation process is started, the control circuit 9B receives a confirmation instruction (bottle confirmation instruction) regarding a specific reagent bottle. Specifically, for example, after the "cap confirmation" button 330 in the reagent storage window 328 is pressed (that is, after the return forgetting confirmation process is started), the item 332 of the cap necessity "required" in the reagent storage information and Item 334 is automatically selected, and the control circuit 9A receives a bottle confirmation instruction regarding the reagent bottle (specific reagent bottle) associated with these items. When the "end" button 336 on the base window 326 is pressed, the operation is the same as when the "cap confirmation" button 330 on the reagent storage window 328 is pressed.

(Step S302)
After receiving the bottle confirmation instruction, the control circuit 9B executes the confirmation function 96A. When the confirmation function 96A is executed, the control circuit 9B confirms the presence or absence of a specific reagent bottle based on the bottle confirmation instruction. Specifically, the control circuit 9B compares the stored first reagent storage information with the current second reagent storage information, and the second reagent storage information is present in the first reagent storage information. Identify reagent bottles that are not in the reagent storage information, i.e., specific reagent bottles that have not been returned to the reagent storage.

(Step S303)
If there is a specific reagent bottle that has not been returned to the reagent storage (step S303: YES), that is, if there is a reagent bottle that the operator has forgotten to return to the reagent storage after the reagent bottle removal process, the process proceeds to step S304. .. If there is no specific reagent bottle that has not been returned to the reagent storage (step S303: NO), that is, if the operator has returned all the bottles taken out after the reagent bottle removal process to the reagent storage, confirmation of forgetting to return. End the process.

(Step S304)
After identifying a particular reagent bottle that has not been returned to the reagent storage, the control circuit 9B executes the display control function 95A. When the display control function 95A is executed, the control circuit 9B displays a confirmation window on the display 6 containing information on a specific reagent bottle that has not been returned to the reagent storage. The confirmation window according to the third embodiment is illustrated below.

FIG. 17 is a diagram showing a display example of the confirmation window according to the third embodiment. For example, the confirmation window 344 shown in FIG. 17 is displayed on a layer higher than the base window 326 displayed on the display 6. In the confirmation window 344, for example, "Yes" button 346 and "No" button are displayed with the sentence "A reagent bottle that has not been returned to the reagent storage has been found. Do you want to return it to the reagent storage? Reagent name: Reagent A". 348 is displayed.

When the operator presses the “Yes” button 346, the control circuit 9B waits until the reagent bottle containing the displayed reagent (“Reagent A” in FIG. 17) is stored in the reagent storage 102. When the operator presses the "No" button 348, the control circuit 9B discards the first reagent storage information.

In the control circuit 9B, the timing at which the return forgetting confirmation process is executed is not limited to the above. For example, when the reagent bottle removal process according to the first embodiment is started by pressing the "cleaning start" button in the washing window, the forgotten return confirmation process may be executed after the washing operation is completed. At this time, the cap confirmation process in the second embodiment may be performed at the same time, or before or after the return forgetting confirmation process.

As described above, the automatic analyzer according to the third embodiment includes a reagent storage for storing a plurality of reagent bottles and a plurality of automatic analyzers, similarly to the automatic analyzers according to the first embodiment and the second embodiment. A storage unit that stores cap information indicating whether a cap is required for storage of at least one or more specific reagent bottles of the reagent bottles, and selects a specific reagent bottle based on the cap information. It includes a selection unit and an automatic reagent loading mechanism for transferring the selected specific reagent bottle from the reagent storage to the reagent charging unit for charging the reagent bottle.

Further, in the automatic analyzer according to the third embodiment, the storage unit includes the first reagent storage information including the information of a plurality of reagent bottles stored in the reagent storage, and the identification transferred by the reagent automatic loading mechanism. At least one of the reagent bottles of the reagent stores the second reagent storage information returned to the reagent storage, and the automatic analyzer compares the first reagent storage information with the second reagent storage information to obtain reagents. It is equipped with a bottle confirmation unit that confirms information on reagent bottles that are insufficient in the storage.

Further, in the automatic analyzer according to the third embodiment, the bottle confirmation unit receives an instruction from the operator to obtain the first reagent storage information and the second reagent storage information at the time when the instruction is received. Check for missing reagent bottle information by comparing with. Alternatively, the bottle confirmation unit is insufficient by receiving the end notification of cleaning at the end of work and comparing the first reagent storage information with the second reagent storage information at the time of receiving the end notification. Check the information of the reagent bottle.

Therefore, according to this automatic analyzer, when returning a specific reagent bottle to the reagent storage, it is possible to confirm forgetting to return it.

(Fourth Embodiment)
In the third embodiment, a process for confirming forgetting to return a specific reagent bottle has been described. In the fourth embodiment, a process for confirming forgetting to attach the cap during storage will be described.

FIG. 18 is a block diagram showing an example of the automatic analyzer according to the fourth embodiment. For example, as shown in FIG. 18, the automatic analyzer 1C according to the fourth embodiment includes an analysis mechanism 2, an analysis circuit 3, a drive mechanism 4, an input interface 5, a display 6, a communication interface 7, a storage circuit 8, and a control. The circuit 9C is provided.

Next, each function of the control circuit 9C according to the fourth embodiment will be described. The control circuit 9C shown in FIG. 18 realizes a function corresponding to the operation program stored in the storage circuit 8 by executing the operation program. For example, the control circuit 9C executes a system control function 91, an acquisition function 92 (acquisition unit), a generation function 93 (generation unit), an extraction function 94 (selection unit), and a display control function 95A (display) by executing an operation program. It has a control unit) and a confirmation function 96B (cap forgotten confirmation unit).

The control circuit 9C executes each function related to the cap forgetting confirmation process according to the read control program. Each of the above functions includes, for example, a display control function 95A and a confirmation function 96B. It should be noted that each of the above functions may include a part of other functions of the control circuit 9C.

The confirmation function 96B is a function for confirming whether or not a specific reagent bottle that has been stored in the reagent storage at the end of the previous operation is capped at the next startup. Specifically, the control circuit 9C uses the confirmation function 96B to confirm whether or not a specific reagent bottle that has been stored in the reagent storage at the end of the previous operation is capped at the next startup. Then, the control circuit 9C identifies a specific reagent bottle without a cap.

Next, the operation of the automatic analyzer 1C according to the fourth embodiment configured as described above will be described according to the processing procedure of the control circuit 9C. In the cap forgetting confirmation process described below, when the automatic analyzer 1C is started (after the power is turned on), the reagent storage information (third reagent storage) in the previous power off period of the automatic analyzer 1C is performed. Information) is executed when it is stored in the storage circuit 8.

FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing an operation example of the cap forgetting confirmation process according to the fourth embodiment. The flowchart of FIG. 19 is started, for example, by the control circuit 9C executing a program for confirming that the cap has been forgotten at the timing when the startup is performed after the power of the automatic analyzer 1C is turned on.

(Step S401)
When the cap forgetting confirmation process is started, the control circuit 9C reads the third reagent storage information stored in the storage circuit 8.

(Step S402)
After reading the third reagent storage information, the control circuit 9C executes the confirmation function 96B. When the confirmation function 96B is executed, the control circuit 9C continuously determines whether or not there is a specific reagent bottle without a cap since the previous power-off period. Specifically, the control circuit 9C confirms whether or not the third reagent storage information includes information without a cap attached.

If there is a specific reagent bottle without a cap continuously from the previous power-off period (step S402: YES), that is, if the third reagent storage information contains information without a cap, the process is performed. Proceeds to step S403. If there is no specific reagent bottle without a cap continuously from the previous power-off period (step S402: NO), that is, if the third reagent storage information does not include information without a cap attached, the cap The forgotten confirmation process ends.

(Step S403)
The control circuit 9C executes the display control function 95B after a specific reagent bottle without a cap is found continuously from the previous power-off period. When the display control function 95B is executed, the control circuit 9C displays a confirmation window on the display 6 containing information on a specific reagent bottle without a cap. The confirmation window according to the fourth embodiment is illustrated below.

FIG. 20 is a diagram showing a display example of the confirmation window according to the fourth embodiment. For example, the confirmation window 352 shown in FIG. 20 is displayed on a layer higher than the base window 350 displayed on the display 6. In the confirmation window 352, for example, "A reagent bottle without a cap was found. Do you allow the use of this reagent? Reagent name: Reagent A" with the text "Yes" button 354 and "No". Button 356 is displayed.

When the operator presses the "Yes" button 354, the control circuit 9C automatically performs a calibration measurement of the displayed reagent, disabling the calibration curve for the displayed reagent ("Reagent A" in FIG. 20). Order with, or both. The calibration measurement is a measurement for creating a new calibration curve. When the operator presses the "No" button 348, the drive mechanism 4 is driven to transfer the reagent bottle containing the displayed reagent from the reagent storage 102 to the reagent charging unit 118.

As described above, the automatic analyzer according to the fourth embodiment stores a plurality of reagent bottles as in the automatic analyzer according to the first embodiment, the second embodiment, and the third embodiment. A reagent storage to be used and a storage unit for storing cap information indicating whether a cap is required for storage of at least one or more specific reagent bottles among a plurality of reagent bottles are specified based on the cap information. It is provided with a selection unit for selecting a reagent bottle and an automatic reagent loading mechanism for transferring the selected specific reagent bottle from the reagent storage to the reagent charging unit for charging the reagent bottle.

Further, in the automatic analyzer according to the fourth embodiment, the storage unit stores information on a plurality of reagent bottles stored in the reagent storage and information indicating the presence or absence of a cap in a specific reagent bottle during the power-off period. The automatic analyzer stores the third reagent storage information including, and when the power is turned on, the automatic analyzer confirms the presence or absence of an uncapped reagent bottle among the specific reagent bottles based on the third reagent storage information. Equipped with a forgotten confirmation unit.

Further, the automatic analyzer according to the fourth embodiment includes a control unit that invalidates the calibration curve of the reagent contained in the reagent bottle that was not capped at the time of storage. Alternatively, the automatic analyzer includes a control unit that orders control measurement to create a calibration curve of reagents contained in reagent bottles that were not capped at the time of storage.

Therefore, according to this automatic analyzer, it is possible to confirm the information of the reagent bottle that has forgotten to close the cap when the power is turned on the next day.

According to at least one embodiment described above, a specific reagent bottle can be easily taken out in an automatic analyzer provided with an automatic reagent loading mechanism.

Although some embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, replacements, and changes can be made without departing from the gist of the invention. These embodiments and modifications thereof are included in the scope and gist of the invention as well as the invention described in the claims and the equivalent scope thereof.

1 Automatic analyzer 2 Analysis mechanism 3 Analysis circuit 4 Drive mechanism 5 Input interface 6 Display 7 Communication interface 8 Storage circuit 9 Control circuit 91 System control function 92 Acquisition function 93, 93A Generation function 94 Extraction function 95, 95A Display control function 96, 96A, 96B confirmation function

Claims (16)

A reagent storage that stores multiple reagent bottles and
A storage unit that stores cap information indicating whether a cap is required for storage of at least one or more specific reagent bottles among the plurality of reagent bottles.
A selection unit that selects the specific reagent bottle based on the cap information,
An automatic analyzer comprising an automatic reagent loading mechanism for transferring the selected specific reagent bottle from the reagent storage to a reagent charging section for charging the reagent bottle. The selection unit selects the specific reagent bottle by receiving an instruction from the operator.
The automatic analyzer according to claim 1. The selection unit selects the specific reagent bottle by receiving an instruction to start washing at the end of work.
The automatic analyzer according to claim 1. A sensor that detects whether or not the specific reagent bottle stored in the reagent storage is capped, and
The automatic according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising a cap confirmation unit for confirming the presence or absence of an uncapped reagent bottle based on the result detected by the sensor. Analysis equipment. A sensor that detects whether or not the specific reagent bottle transferred to the reagent storage is capped, and
The automatic according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising a cap confirmation unit for confirming the presence or absence of an uncapped reagent bottle based on the result detected by the sensor. Analysis equipment. The sensor is composed of a contact sensor or a non-contact sensor.
The automatic analyzer according to claim 4 or 5. The cap confirmation unit confirms whether or not the reagent bottle is capped by receiving an instruction from the operator.
The automatic analyzer according to any one of claims 4 to 6. The cap confirmation unit confirms whether or not the reagent bottle is capped by receiving the notification of the end of cleaning at the end of work.
The automatic analyzer according to any one of claims 4 to 6. In the storage unit, at least one of the first reagent storage information including the information of the plurality of reagent bottles stored in the reagent storage and the specific reagent bottle transferred by the reagent automatic loading mechanism is the reagent storage. Memorize the second reagent storage information returned to
A bottle confirmation unit that confirms information on reagent bottles that are insufficient in the reagent storage by comparing the first reagent storage information with the second reagent storage information.
The automatic analyzer according to any one of claims 4 to 8, further comprising. The bottle confirmation unit receives an instruction from the operator and compares the first reagent storage information with the second reagent storage information at the time when the instruction from the operator is received. The automatic analyzer according to claim 9, wherein the information on the missing reagent bottle is confirmed. The bottle confirmation unit receives the end notification of cleaning at the end of work, and compares the first reagent storage information with the second reagent storage information at the time when the end notification is received, thereby causing the shortage. The automatic analyzer according to claim 9, wherein the information of the reagent bottle is confirmed. The storage unit stores a third reagent storage information including information on the plurality of reagent bottles stored in the reagent storage and information indicating the presence or absence of a cap in the specific reagent bottle during the power-off period.
When the power is turned on, a cap forgetting confirmation unit for confirming the presence or absence of an uncapped reagent bottle among the specific reagent bottles based on the third reagent storage information,
The automatic analyzer according to any one of claims 4 to 8, further comprising. The automatic analyzer according to claim 12, further comprising a control unit that invalidates a calibration curve for reagents contained in reagent bottles that were not capped during storage. The automatic analyzer according to claim 12, further comprising a control unit for ordering calibration measurements to create a calibration curve for reagents contained in reagent bottles that were not capped during storage. The automatic analyzer according to any one of claims 9 to 11, further comprising a display control unit for displaying information on reagent bottles lacking in the reagent storage on a display. The automatic analyzer according to any one of claims 4 to 14, further comprising a display control unit that displays information on the reagent bottle that was not capped on the display.