JP5232585B2 - Analysis apparatus and probe cleaning method - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an analyzer and a probe cleaning method, for example, an analyzer that dispenses a reagent using a reagent probe and a probe cleaning method thereof.

  Conventionally, in a general analyzer, for example, when dispensing a reagent, a reagent probe for aspirating and discharging the reagent is inserted into a reagent bottle for storing the reagent, and the nozzle tip of the reagent probe is immersed in the reagent. In this state, the desired amount of reagent was separated from the reagent bottle. Thereafter, the dispensed reagent is dispensed by discharging the collected reagent into a reaction container (also referred to as a cuvette) containing a predetermined specimen. Some recent analyzers are configured to automatically execute measurement of a plurality of analysis items for a plurality of samples in a series of analysis processes for the purpose of improving work efficiency and the like.

  However, in the conventional analyzer, it is necessary to immerse the nozzle tip of the reagent probe in the reagent at the time of reagent dispensing, so that the reagent remains at the tip and inside of the reagent probe after dispensing. Therefore, if different reagents are dispensed as they are, the previous reagent will be mixed into the next aspirated reagent, or the reagent adhering to the reagent probe will be mixed into a reagent bottle of a different reagent. In some cases, so-called inter-reagent carry-in (also referred to as carry-over between reagents) occurs, causing a problem that analysis results cannot be obtained correctly.

  Therefore, conventionally, a washing tank for washing the reagent probe is provided, and a process for washing the reagent probe after dispensing is included in a series of analysis processes, thereby reducing the amount of reagent carried over between reagents. (For example, refer to Patent Document 1 shown below).

JP 2001-305145 A

  However, the cleaning effect of the reagent probe that can be expected for a certain cleaning method generally differs depending on the type and concentration of the reagent. For this reason, in order to further reduce the carryover between reagents in a series of analysis processes using multiple types of reagents and various concentrations of reagents, use an effective cleaning method for each reagent type and concentration. Need to be cleaned.

  However, if the time taken for washing differs depending on the type and concentration of the reagent, the time required for analyzing the same number of specimens by a series of processing changes depending on the combination of reagents used. This makes it difficult for the user to predict the end time of the analysis process, that is, the machine time of the analysis apparatus. As a result, an unexpected waiting time occurs in the user or the analysis apparatus, and a problem occurs that the work efficiency is lowered.

  Such a problem may also occur when, for example, the probe cleaning method for dispensing a sample from a predetermined container into a cuvette is changed according to the type of the sample.

  Therefore, the present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and provides an analyzer and a probe cleaning method capable of cleaning a dispensing probe in a certain time without reducing work efficiency. With the goal.

  In order to achieve this object, an analyzer according to the present invention is an analyzer including a probe for dispensing any one of a plurality of types of liquids containing different components into a predetermined container, Moving means for moving the probe to a predetermined position, suction / discharge means for sucking or discharging a predetermined liquid using the probe, cleaning means for cleaning the probe, the moving means, the suction / discharge means, and the cleaning A control means for controlling the means, and a mode management means for managing the cleaning modes having different processing contents for each type of liquid in association with different cleaning types and having the same processing time. However, when the moving means and the suction / discharge means are controlled and one of the plurality of types of liquid is dispensed into the predetermined container by the probe, the dispensing is performed. The body type is specified, the cleaning mode associated with the specified liquid type is specified by the mode management means, and the moving means, the suction / discharge means, and the cleaning are performed according to the processing content of the specified cleaning mode. The probe is washed by controlling the means.

  In the analyzer according to the present invention described above, the predetermined container stores a sample to be analyzed, and the liquid is a reagent for measuring a specific analysis item for the sample, and is classified according to the analysis item. The mode management means manages the cleaning mode of the different processing content for each analysis item, the control means identifies the analysis item corresponding to the dispensed reagent, and the identified analysis item A cleaning mode associated with is identified from the mode management means.

  The above-described analyzer according to the present invention is characterized in that the liquid is a sample to be analyzed.

  In the analyzer according to the present invention described above, at least one of the cleaning modes associated with the different liquid types includes a process of holding a cleaning liquid for cleaning the probe as the processing content for a predetermined time. It is characterized by.

  The probe cleaning method according to the present invention is a probe cleaning method for cleaning a probe for dispensing any one of a plurality of types of liquids containing different components into a predetermined container, the type of the liquid A mode management step for managing a cleaning mode having different processing contents and different liquid types in association with each other with the same processing time, and using the probe, any one of the plurality of types of liquids is stored in the predetermined container. A dispensing step for dispensing in, a type identifying step for identifying the type of the liquid dispensed in the dispensing step, and a cleaning mode associated with the type of the liquid identified in the type identifying step And a cleaning step for cleaning the probe according to the processing content of the cleaning mode specified in the mode specifying step. It is characterized in that it comprises a flop, the.

  In the above-described probe cleaning method according to the present invention, the predetermined container stores a sample to be analyzed, and the liquid is a reagent for measuring a specific analysis item for the sample according to the analysis item. The mode management step manages the cleaning mode of the different processing contents for each analysis item, and the type specifying step corresponds to the analysis item corresponding to the reagent dispensed in the dispensing step. And the mode specifying step specifies a cleaning mode associated with the analysis item.

  The above-described probe cleaning method according to the present invention is characterized in that the liquid is a specimen to be analyzed.

  In the probe cleaning method according to the present invention described above, at least one of the cleaning modes associated with the different liquid types includes a process of holding a cleaning liquid for cleaning the probe for a predetermined time as the processing content. It is characterized by that.

  According to the present invention, the probe can be cleaned using the optimum cleaning mode in which the processing content differs for each component contained in the dispensed liquid, so that the analyzer can perform more effective probe cleaning. In addition, a probe cleaning method can be realized. Further, in the present invention, since the processing time of all the cleaning modes is set to the same time length, the machine time can be easily predicted by the user. As a result, it is possible to realize an analyzer and a probe cleaning method that can effectively clean the dispensing probe without reducing the working efficiency.

  Hereinafter, the best mode for carrying out the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In addition, this invention is not limited by the following embodiment. Moreover, in the following description, each figure has shown only the shape, the magnitude | size, and positional relationship so that the content of this invention can be understood, Therefore, this invention was illustrated in each figure. It is not limited to only the shape, size, and positional relationship. Furthermore, in each figure, a part of hatching in the cross section is omitted for the sake of clarifying the configuration.

<Embodiment 1>
Hereinafter, an automatic analyzer 1 according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

(Automatic analyzer)
FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a schematic configuration of an automatic analyzer 1 according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the automatic analyzer 1 stocks a main unit 100 for automatically performing measurement on various analysis items, a sample supplied to the main unit 100, and a cuvette C described later. And a control terminal 400 for executing control of processes and operations for the main unit 100 and the subunit 300, analysis of input measurement results, and the like. Note that the upper surface 100A of the main unit 100, which is an analysis execution surface, is appropriately covered with, for example, an openable / closable cover.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the subunit 300 includes, for example, a sample rack 301 that can hold one or more sample containers 302 in which a liquid sample is placed, and a rack that can store one or more sample racks 301. A set unit 310 and a rack collection unit 320 that can store one or more sample racks 301 holding sample containers 302 containing analyzed samples are mounted.

  In the above, the sample rack 301 stored in the rack set unit 310 is transported on the transport path 330 shown in FIG. 1 by a transport mechanism (not shown) mounted on the subunit 300, and then stored in the rack recovery unit 320. The At this time, the sample rack 301 is temporarily stopped at the sample collection position 114 on the transport path 330, and the sample is collected from the sample container 302 that is appropriately held using a sample dispensing unit 110 described later. However, the sample rack 301 holding the sample container 302 containing the sample that needs to be retested is once branched from the transport path 330 to the retest path 340, and the sample is separated again at the retest sample collection position 115. After that, it returns to the transport path 330 again and is accommodated in the rack collection unit 320.

  Similarly, as shown in FIG. 1, the main unit 100 includes, for example, a sample dispensing unit 110, a reaction tank 120, a sample probe cleaning unit 130, an interrupt sample unit 140, an electrolyte measurement unit 150, First stirring unit 160, first reagent dispensing unit 170, first reagent cold box 180, first reagent probe cleaning unit 190, light source lamp set 210 and light receiving unit 211, and second reagent dispensing unit 220 And the 2nd reagent cool box 230, the 2nd reagent probe washing | cleaning unit 240, the 2nd stirring unit 250, and the cuvette washing | cleaning unit 260 are mounted.

  Here, an example of the cuvette C used in the present embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. 2A is a perspective view showing the shape of the cuvette C, and FIG. 2B is a perspective view showing the shape of a cuvette C2 that is a modification of the cuvette C. FIG. As shown in FIG. 2A, the cuvette C used in the present embodiment is, for example, a cylindrical container in which an opening CA is formed. Such a cuvette C is formed using a transparent material such as hard glass, plastic, or quartz. At the time of measurement, the cuvette C side surface is irradiated with light having a predetermined wavelength output from the light source lamp set 210. The measurement for each analysis item is performed by receiving the light transmitted through the cuvette C by the light receiving unit 211 and measuring the light intensity. Further, as a modification of the cuvette C according to the present embodiment, for example, as shown in FIG. 2B, a substantially quadrangular prism shape in which the corner of the opening CA2 formed in the upper portion has a slightly rounded shape. The container. However, the present invention is not limited to these shapes, and can be appropriately modified according to specifications and the like.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the cuvette C as described above is set in each of a plurality of cuvette holders 122 b arranged circumferentially along the inner periphery of the reaction tank 120. Each cuvette holder 122b is provided with a hole (not shown) for transmitting light from the light source lamp set 210 to the light receiving unit 211. At each position (122, 124, 125, etc.) shown in FIG. 1, the target cuvette C is arranged by the cuvette holder 122b in the reaction tank 120 turning around the rotation shaft 121. In the cuvette C in the reaction tank 120, the sample dispensed using the sample dispensing unit 110, the first reagent dispensed using the first reagent dispensing unit 170, and the second reagent dispensing. The second reagent collected using the injection unit 220 is appropriately dispensed. Thereby, a liquid mixture (or reaction liquid) corresponding to one or more analysis items is generated in the cuvette C in the reaction tank 120. FIG. 3 is a top view showing a layout example of a plurality of cuvette holders 122b arranged in the reaction tank 120. FIG.

  Returning to FIG. The sample dispensing unit 110 pivots or moves up and down around the pivot 112 to move to the sample collection position 114, the re-examination sample collection position 115, or the interrupted sample collection position 141, and at this position, a predetermined sample is obtained. A sample is aspirated from the container 302 to be collected. Further, the dispensed specimen is dispensed by discharging it into the target cuvette C in the reaction tank 120 at the specimen dispensing position 122. On the other hand, the first reagent dispensing unit 170 moves to the first reagent sorting position 183 by pivoting or moving up and down around the pivot 172, and at this position, the first reagent bottle in the first reagent cooler 180 is moved. The first reagent is aspirated from 182 and dispensed. Further, the dispensed first reagent is dispensed by being discharged into the target cuvette C in the reaction tank 120 at the first reagent dispensing position 124. Similarly, the second reagent dispensing unit 220 moves to the second reagent sorting position 233 by pivoting or moving up and down around the pivot 222, and at this position, the second reagent in the second reagent cooler 230 is moved. The second reagent is dispensed from the bottle 232. Further, the dispensed second reagent is dispensed to the target cuvette C in the reaction tank 120 at the second reagent dispensing position 125.

  The mixed liquid produced in the cuvette C is appropriately stirred using, for example, the first stirring unit 160 or the second stirring unit 250 and the reaction is promoted, and then the light source lamp set 210 and the light receiving unit 211 are used. Measured for each analysis item. The obtained measurement results are output to the control terminal 400 connected via, for example, the interface (I / F) 290, and are analyzed appropriately by the control terminal 400.

  In FIG. 1, a sample probe cleaning unit 130 is a unit for preventing carry-over between samples, and appropriately cleans the sample probe 123 in the sample dispensing unit 110 after dispensing. The first reagent probe cleaning unit 190 and the second reagent probe cleaning unit 240 are units for preventing contamination due to carryover between reagents via the first reagent probe 173 or the second reagent probe 223, respectively. The first reagent probe 173 or the second reagent probe 223 in the first reagent dispensing unit 170 or the second reagent dispensing unit 220 after the dispensing is appropriately washed. Details of the first reagent dispensing unit 170 and the first reagent probe cleaning unit 190, and the second reagent dispensing unit 220 and the second reagent probe cleaning unit 240 will be described later.

  The cuvette cleaning unit 260 is a unit for cleaning and reusing the used cuvette C. The first reagent cold storage 180 is a cold storage for storing the first reagent in a temperature-controlled environment, and a plurality of first reagent bottles arranged circumferentially along the inside of the outer circumference circle. 182 is stored. At the first reagent sorting position 183, the first reagent bottle 182 containing the target first reagent is arranged by the first reagent cold box 180 orbiting around the rotation shaft 181. The first reagent cooler 180 is provided with a barcode reader 184 for reading a barcode attached to the outside of the first reagent bottle 182, and information such as a status described in the barcode is displayed. By reading, the first reagent accommodated in each first reagent bottle 182 is managed. Similarly, the second reagent cold box 230 is a cold box for storing the second reagent in a temperature-controlled environment, and a plurality of second reagent bottles 232 arranged circumferentially along the outer circumference. Is stored. At the second reagent sorting position 233, the second reagent bottle 232 containing the target second reagent is arranged by the second reagent cool box 230 orbiting around the rotation shaft 231. Similarly to the first reagent cooler 180, the second reagent cooler 230 is also provided with a bar code reader 234 for reading a bar code attached to the outside of the second reagent bottle 232. The second reagent contained in each second reagent bottle 232 is managed by reading information such as the status described in the code.

  Furthermore, the interrupt sample unit 140 is a unit for interrupting a series of analysis processes for a plurality of samples set in the rack set unit 310 and setting a sample to be analyzed first. The electrolyte measurement unit 150 is a unit for measuring the electrolyte contained in the specimen as necessary.

  Each unit operates under the control of the control terminal 400 connected externally via an interface (I / F) 290 provided in the main unit 100, for example. The control terminal 400 includes, for example, an interface (I / F) 410 for connecting to the interface 290 of the main unit 100 via a predetermined line 420, an analysis unit 402 for analyzing an input measurement result, and a user Input unit 403 for inputting various instructions and commands, display unit 404 for displaying various measurement / analysis results, sample status, measurement / analysis progress, etc. to the user, various control programs and input A storage unit 405 for storing measurement results, generated analysis results, and the like, and a control unit 401 for controlling the above-described units and controlling each unit in the main unit 100 and the subunit 300 are included.

(Reagent probe)
Next, the configuration and operation of the first reagent dispensing unit 170 and the second reagent dispensing unit 220 according to the present embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, in the present embodiment, the configuration and operation of the second reagent dispensing unit 220 are substantially the same as the configuration and operation of the first reagent dispensing unit 170. Focus on the explanation.

  FIG. 4 is a side view showing a schematic configuration example of the first reagent dispensing unit 170 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic internal configuration of the first reagent dispensing unit 170. FIG. 6 is a top view illustrating a schematic configuration example around the first reagent dispensing unit 170 on the upper surface 100A of the first reagent dispensing unit 170 and the main unit 100. FIG. FIG. 5 shows a schematic cross-sectional configuration when the first reagent dispensing unit 170 is cut in the longitudinal direction of the arm portion 11 along a plane perpendicular to the upper surface 100A of the main unit 100.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the first reagent dispensing unit 170 dilutes a plurality of types of first reagents for measuring different analysis items, or dilutes to different concentrations to measure the same analysis item with different dynamic ranges. The first reagent probe 173 for dispensing one of the plurality of types of first reagents into the target cuvette C, and the arm part 11 having the first reagent probe 173 detachably attached to one end thereof And a shaft member 12 that functions as a pivot shaft 172 that pivotally supports the other end of the arm portion 11 so as to be vertically movable and pivotable. The dynamic range means a substantial measurement range. For example, measurement for a certain analysis item for a certain sample (this is referred to as the first sample) is measured with a dynamic range 10 times that of the same analysis item for other samples (this is referred to as the second sample). If desired, the concentration of the first reagent used for the first sample is, for example, 1/10 times the concentration of the first reagent used for the second sample. As a result, the substantial measurement range for the first sample can be made ten times the substantial measurement range for the second sample. For example, when it is desired to measure a certain analysis item for the first sample with a resolution 10 times higher than the measurement for the same item for the second sample, the concentration of the first reagent used for the first sample is set to For example, the concentration of the first reagent used for two specimens is 10 times. As a result, the substantial measurement range for the first sample is 1/10, but since the number of measurements is the same, the resolution for the first sample can be 10 times the resolution for the second sample. .

  As shown in FIG. 5, the lower portion of the shaft member 12 is coupled to a drive mechanism 20 disposed below the upper surface 100 </ b> A of the main unit 100. The drive mechanism 20 is a moving means for moving the first reagent probe 173 to a predetermined position. For example, the drive mechanism 20 rotates the shaft member 12 around a pivot 172 shown in FIG. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 6, the arm portion 11 fixed to the shaft member 12 has a surface parallel to the upper surface 100A of the main unit 100 in the direction of the arrow r1 (clockwise or counterclockwise with the pivot 172 of the shaft member 12 as the center. Rotate around. With this configuration, the first reagent probe 173 provided at the end opposite to the shaft member 12 is provided on the first reagent dispensing position 183, the first reagent dispensing position 124 provided on the locus e1, or It is possible to appropriately move the first reagent probe cleaning position 190a or the like.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 4, the drive mechanism 20 causes the shaft member 12 to protrude into the upper surface 100 </ b> A of the main unit 100 in the arrow h <b> 1 direction. Thereby, the arm part 11 fixed to the shaft member 12 moves up and down with respect to the upper surface 100 </ b> A of the main unit 100. With this configuration, the height position of the first reagent probe 173 provided at the end opposite to the shaft member 12 can be displaced up and down. For example, in FIG. 5 or FIG. 6, the nozzle 13 a of the first reagent probe 173 has an opening 183 a provided at the first reagent sorting position 183 in the lid 180-1 of the first reagent cooler 180 when the shaft member 12 is lowered. Are inserted into the first reagent bottle 182 located below the first reagent sorting position 183 in the first reagent cool box 180 through the insertion port 182a. Further, in FIG. 6, the nozzle 13 a moves from the opening 124 a provided at the first reagent dispensing position 124 in the lid 120-1 of the reaction tank 120 by the lowering of the shaft member 12 to dispense the first reagent in the reaction tank 120. It is inserted into the cuvette C held by the cuvette holder 122b located below the pouring position 124. In FIG. 6, the nozzle 13 a is inserted into the cleaning tank 41 in the first reagent probe cleaning unit 190 disposed at the first reagent probe cleaning position 190 a when the shaft member 12 is lowered.

  Returning to FIG. The arm portion 11 includes a first member 11-1 fixed to the upper end of the shaft member 12, a second member 11-2 that detachably holds the first reagent probe 173, and the first member 11-1 and the second member 11-2. A connecting member 11-3 that connects the member 11-2 is included. In addition, the 1st member 11-1, the connection member 11-3, and the 2nd member 11-2 and the connection member 11-3 are each fixed with the screw | thread 11-3a etc., respectively.

  A cylindrical cavity 11-2b is provided in the end 11-2a of the second member 11-2 opposite to the connecting member 11-3, as shown in FIG. A hole 11-2d passing through the bottom 11-2c of the end 11-2a is provided. The first reagent probe 173 is held by being inserted into the hole 11-2d from the inside of the cavity 11-2b so as to protrude downward (in the direction of the upper surface 100A) from the bottom 11-2c of the end 11-2a.

  Here, the shape of the first reagent probe 173 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 7 is an external view showing a shape example of the first reagent probe 173 used in the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 7, the first reagent probe 173 includes a body part 13, a nozzle 13 a provided at the lower end of the body part 13, and an enlarged diameter part 13 b provided at the upper end of the body part 13, A hole penetrating from the upper surface of the enlarged diameter portion 13b to the bottom surface of the nozzle 13a is formed.

  The body part 13, the nozzle 13a, and the enlarged diameter part 13b are respectively cylindrical tubes. However, the inner diameter and outer diameter of the enlarged diameter portion 13b are, for example, larger than the inner diameter and outer diameter of the body portion 13, respectively. For this reason, as shown in FIG. 5, the bottom part of the enlarged diameter part 13b, ie, the level | step-difference part of the trunk | drum 13 and the enlarged diameter part 13b, contact | abuts the upper surface of the bottom part 11-2c of the cavity 11-2b. This prevents the first reagent probe 173 from falling off the second member 11-2. Moreover, as shown in FIG. 7, the front-end | tip part 14a which is one edge part of the tube 14 mentioned later is fitted by the enlarged diameter part 13b. Thereby, the cavity of the tube 14 and the cavity of the 1st reagent probe 173 are connected.

  Returning to FIG. 4 to FIG. As shown in FIG. 5, the first reagent probe 173 is inserted into the cavity 11-2b of the second member 11-2 with the distal end portion 14a of the tube 14 being fitted to the enlarged diameter portion 13b. Moreover, the cap opening | mouth with which the helical convex part was formed in the outer surface is provided in the upper part of the edge 11-2a. By fitting the screw cap 15 into the cap opening at the top of the end 11-2a, the cavity 11-2b is covered. A through hole for fitting the tube 14 is provided in the upper part of the screw cap 15. The screw cap 15 is fitted on the upper end of the end 11-2a in a state where the tube 14 is fitted.

  In the state where the screw cap 15 is fitted, as shown in FIG. 5, the convex portion 15 a provided on the inner side of the screw cap 15 comes into contact with the upper surface of the enlarged diameter portion 13 b of the first reagent probe 173. Thereby, since the enlarged diameter part 13b will be in the state pinched | interposed into the bottom part 11-2c and the convex part 15a, the 1st reagent probe 173 is fixed to the end 11-2a.

  As shown in FIG. 5, the tube 14 protruding from the upper surface of the screw cap 15 is fitted into the holding portion 16 through the inside of the cavity 11-2e formed in the second member 11-2. The holding | maintenance part 16 is attached to the connection member 11-3 using the screw | thread 16a, for example. Thereby, the tube 14 is hold | maintained at the connection member 11-3.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 5, the tube 14 is held in a cavity 11-2e of the second member 11-2 by, for example, a holding portion 11-2f fixed to the second member 11-2. Thereby, the excessive slack etc. of the tube 14 are relieved.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 5, the tube 14 is inserted into a hole 12a formed so as to pass through the center of the lower surface of the shaft member 12 protruding from the upper end of the first member 11-1, for example, and this hole 12a. Through the top surface 100A of the main unit 100. As shown in FIG. 5, a holding portion 17 that holds the tube 14 is provided at the upper end of the shaft member 12.

  The tube 14 guided below the upper surface 100A is, for example, a three-way valve capable of switching the connection relationship under the control of the control unit 401 after being derived from the drive mechanism 20 coupled to the lower portion of the shaft member 12, for example. Branches to the first route 14-1 and the second route 14-2 via 14-3. The first path 14-1 is connected to the syringe 22, for example. On the other hand, the second path 14-2 is connected to the inner cleaning water supply unit 24, for example. The inner washing water supply unit 24 is connected to the inner washing water tank 25 through a tube 14-2a.

  The three-way valve 14-3 is an open / close valve that can be opened and closed under electrical control from the outside, for example. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and a plurality of open / close valves may be combined. In the present embodiment, the syringe 22 is given as an example of suction / discharge means for sucking or discharging the first reagent using the first reagent probe 173. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and for example, several nl ( Any pump may be used as long as it can control suction and discharge at a high resolution on the order of nanoliter) to several ml (milliliter). Further, pure water purified by distillation, for example, can be applied to the inner wash water 25a.

First Reagent Dispensing Operation Here, the first reagent dispensing operation using the first reagent dispensing unit 170 will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 5 or FIG. 6, when sorting the first reagent 180 a, the control unit 401 (see FIG. 1) controls the drive mechanism 20 to rotate the shaft member 12, whereby the first reagent The probe 173 is moved onto the first reagent sorting position 183. Subsequently, the control unit 401 controls the drive mechanism 20 to lower the shaft member 12 so that the nozzle 13a of the first reagent probe 173 is moved from the opening 183a provided in the lid 180-1 of the first reagent cool box 180-1. The first reagent bottle 182 is inserted into the first reagent bottle 182 through the insertion port 182a. At this time, the tip of the nozzle 13 a of the first reagent probe 173 is immersed in the first reagent 180 a in the first reagent bottle 182. Therefore, in this state, the control unit 401 controls the three-way valve 14-3 to connect the first path 14-1 and the tube 14 and drives the syringe 22 for a predetermined period, whereby a predetermined amount of the first reagent 180a is obtained. The first reagent probe 173 is sucked from the tip of the nozzle 13a. As a result, a predetermined amount of the first reagent 180a is separated by the first reagent probe 173. In this operation, the second path 14-2 and the tube 14 are blocked.

  Further, after separating the first reagent 180a, the control unit 401 controls the drive mechanism 20 to raise the shaft member 12 and then rotate the shaft member 12 as shown in FIG. 6, thereby rotating the first reagent probe 173. After being drawn from the opening 183a of the first reagent dispensing position 183, it is moved onto the first reagent dispensing position 124. Subsequently, the control unit 401 controls the drive mechanism 20 to lower the shaft member 12 so that the nozzle 13a of the first reagent probe 173 is moved into the cuvette C from the opening 124a provided in the lid 120-1 of the reaction tank 120. Insert into. In this state, the control unit 401 drives the syringe 22 to discharge the sorted first reagent 180a into the cuvette C from the tip of the nozzle 13a. As a result, a predetermined amount of the first reagent 180a thus dispensed is dispensed into the cuvette C. In this operation, the first path 14-1 and the tube 14 remain connected, and the second path 14-2 and the tube 14 remain disconnected.

(Reagent probe cleaning unit)
Next, the configurations of the first reagent probe cleaning unit 190 and the second reagent probe cleaning unit 240, and the first reagent probe cleaning operation and the second reagent probe cleaning operation according to the present embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. explain. However, in the present embodiment, the configuration of the second reagent probe cleaning unit 240 and the second reagent probe cleaning operation are substantially the same as the configuration of the first reagent probe cleaning unit 190 and the first reagent probe cleaning operation. Now, description will be given focusing on the first reagent probe cleaning unit 190 and the first reagent probe cleaning operation.

  FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing a schematic configuration example of the first reagent probe cleaning unit 190 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic internal configuration of the first reagent probe cleaning unit 190. FIG. 9 shows a schematic cross-sectional configuration when cut along a plane perpendicular to the upper surface 100A of the main unit 100 and connecting a diluted detergent storage tank 42 and a waste liquid pipe 47, which will be described later.

  As shown in FIG. 8, the first reagent probe cleaning unit 190 is a cleaning means for cleaning the first reagent probe 173, and is a cleaning in which a diluted detergent reservoir 42 and a waste liquid pipe 47 extending downward are formed. A tank 41 and an outer cleaning water discharge nozzle 45 for discharging an outer cleaning water 27a described later into the cleaning tank 41 are provided, and the first reagent probe 173 to be cleaned is appropriately inserted into the cleaning tank 41.

  The cleaning tank 41 is, for example, a box-shaped container having a substantially rectangular top surface whose longitudinal direction is arranged substantially parallel to the locus e1 of the first reagent probe 173. As shown in FIG. 8 or FIG. A cavity 41a having an upper opening is provided. The bottom surface 41b of the cavity 41a is inclined in a funnel shape so that the horizontal cross section narrows toward a certain point (the bottom point), for example. A waste liquid pipe 47 is provided at the bottom of the bottom surface 41b. A drain pipe 48 connected to a waste liquid tank 49 made of, for example, a poly tank is connected to the waste liquid pipe 47. Accordingly, the liquid in the cleaning tank 41 (for example, the diluted detergent 46a, the inner cleaning water 25a, the outer cleaning water 27a, etc., which will be described later) flows into the waste liquid pipe 47 from the opening 47a through the bottom surface 41b, It passes through and is discharged to the waste liquid tank 49.

  Moreover, the diluted detergent storage tank 42 is a substantially cylindrical container which has the cavity 42a inside, as shown in FIG. 8 or FIG. As shown in FIG. 9, the diluted detergent storage tank 42 is disposed so as to extend from the upper part or middle of the slope formed by the bottom surface 41 b of the cavity 41 a of the cleaning tank 41 toward the lower side of the cleaning tank 41. As shown in FIG. 8 or 9, an opening 42 b that opens a part of the bottom surface 41 b of the cavity 41 a is formed in the upper part of the diluted detergent storage tank 42. Therefore, the cavity 41a of the cleaning tank 41 and the cavity 42a of the diluted detergent storage tank 42 are continuous via the opening 42b. The opening 42b of the diluted detergent storage tank 42 and the opening 47a of the waste liquid pipe 47 are respectively arranged on the locus e1 of the first reagent probe 173.

  As shown in FIG. 8 or FIG. 9, a protruding diluted detergent introduction pipe 42-1 is formed on the side surface of the diluted detergent storage tank 42. The diluted detergent introduction pipe 42-1 is continuous with the cavity 42a inside the diluted detergent storage tank 42. In addition, a tube 43 connected to the diluted detergent supply unit 44 is inserted into the diluted detergent introduction tube 42-1. As shown in FIG. 9, the diluted detergent supply unit 44 is supplied with diluted detergent 46a from the diluted detergent tank 46 via the tube 43-1. Therefore, the diluted detergent supply unit 44 fills the cavity 42a in the diluted detergent storage tank 42 with the diluted detergent 46a through the tube 43 and the diluted detergent introduction tube 42-1 under the control of the control unit 401.

  The lowest position H42 in the opening 42b of the diluted detergent storage tank 42 is set higher than the highest position H47 in the opening 47a of the waste liquid pipe 47. As a result, the liquid spilled from the diluted detergent storage tank 42 can be discharged from the waste liquid pipe 47 without accumulating in the cavity 41 a in the cleaning tank 41.

  Further, the outer cleaning water discharge nozzle 45 is disposed such that the discharge port faces the cleaning tank 41 as shown in FIG. 8 or FIG. As shown in FIG. 9, the outer cleaning water discharge nozzle 45 is connected to the outer cleaning water supply unit 26 through a tube 45-1. The outer cleaning water supply unit 26 is supplied with the outer cleaning water 27a from the outer cleaning water tank 27 through the tube 45-2. Therefore, the outer cleaning water supply unit 26 discharges the outer cleaning water 27a from the outer cleaning water discharge nozzle 45 into the cleaning tank 41 through the tube 45-1 under the control of the control unit 401. As a result, the outer washing water 27a flows outside the first reagent probe 173 disposed in the washing tank 41, and is washed. The height position of the discharge port of the outer cleaning water discharge nozzle 45 may be set lower than the upper end position of the cleaning tank 41. Thereby, it can reduce that the outside washing water 27a splashes out of the washing tank 41. For example, pure water purified by distillation can be applied to the outer cleaning water 27a.

-1st reagent probe washing | cleaning process Next, the washing | cleaning process of the 1st reagent probe 173 by the 1st reagent probe washing | cleaning unit 190 is demonstrated in detail with reference to drawings below.

  In the present embodiment, a plurality of cleaning modes are provided for cleaning the first reagent probe 173. For each cleaning mode, for example, an optimal cleaning sequence is set according to the analysis item. In addition, since it is usually possible to specify a reagent to be used by specifying a certain analysis item, it is possible to specify an optimal washing sequence for each analysis item. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, an optimal cleaning sequence may be set according to the type and concentration of the reagent to be cleaned.

  The correspondence between each analysis item and each cleaning mode is managed, for example, in a mode management table shown in FIG. This mode management table is a data table for realizing mode management means or mode management steps for managing the cleaning modes of different cleaning sequences in association with each analysis item, and is held in, for example, the storage unit 405 shown in FIG. Referenced by the control unit 401 as appropriate. As shown in FIG. 10, in this description, the first to third cleaning modes (cleaning mode 1, cleaning mode 2, and cleaning mode 3) are taken as examples. In addition, when setting a washing sequence for each reagent, each reagent type, or each reagent concentration instead of the analysis item, for example, the reagent, the reagent type and / or the reagent concentration and the washing mode are associated with each other. A mode management table may be used. Furthermore, for example, when the subject to be cleaned is the sample probe 123, a mode management table in which a cleaning mode is associated with each type of sample such as blood or urine may be used.

  Note that what kind of cleaning sequence is optimal for which analysis item can be obtained from, for example, empirical results or cleaning test results. However, in this embodiment, each cleaning sequence is configured so that the time required for cleaning is the same time length in each cleaning mode. This makes it easy for the user to predict the end time of the analysis process, that is, the machine time of the automatic analyzer 1, since the time required for the analysis process of the same number of samples does not change regardless of which cleaning mode is selected. It is. In addition, since it is possible to set and select an optimal cleaning mode for each reagent used for measurement of the corresponding analysis item, the first reagent probe 173 can be effectively cleaned.

  Here, as an example, the results of a carry-over test in which the reagent probe is washed in the washing modes 1, 2, and 3 illustrated below for the analysis items ALP and hCG will be described. In this carry-over test, three containers each storing a high concentration reagent of analysis item ALP, a high concentration reagent of analysis item hCG, and a diluent were prepared. Furthermore, as the carry-over amount, the reagent probe after dispensing the reagent from each container was washed in one of the three washing modes shown below, and then the diluted solution was collected from the container. It calculated | required by measuring the quantity per unit volume of the reagent contained in a dilution liquid.

  11A to 11C are timing charts showing the processing contents of the cleaning sequence for each cleaning mode used in the carry-over test in the present embodiment. 11A to 11C, the horizontal axis indicates time, and the hatched portion in each block corresponds to the processing corresponding to this (discharge of diluted detergent, retention of diluted detergent, discharge of internal cleaning water, suction of diluted detergent) ) Is shown.

  First, as shown in FIG. 11A, in the cleaning mode 1, the diluted detergent is first sucked ("diluted detergent suction"), then the diluted detergent is discharged ("diluted detergent discharge"), and then the inner cleaning is performed. A first cleaning sequence is set in which a series of cleaning processes for discharging water (“discharge of inner cleaning water”) is repeated twice. The first cleaning sequence includes “outside cleaning water discharge”, which is executed in parallel with, for example, “internal cleaning water discharge”. Therefore, in FIG. 11A, “internal / external cleaning water discharge” is set.

  As shown in FIG. 11B, in the cleaning mode 2, the diluted detergent is first sucked ("diluted detergent suction"), and then the sucked diluted detergent is held for a predetermined period ("diluted detergent hold" × 3 Next, a series of second cleaning sequences are set, in which the diluted detergent that has been held is discharged ("Discharged diluted detergent"), and then the inner cleaning water is discharged ("Inner cleaning water discharge"). . The holding time of the diluted detergent was set to 1.5 seconds, for example. The second cleaning sequence includes “outside cleaning water discharge”, which is executed in parallel with “inner cleaning water discharge”, for example. Therefore, in FIG. 11B, “internal / external cleaning water discharge” is set.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 11C, in the cleaning mode 3, the diluted detergent is first sucked ("diluted detergent suction"), and then the sucked diluted detergent is held for a predetermined period ("diluted detergent hold"). After that, the third cleaning sequence is set to repeat the series of cleaning processes to discharge the retained diluted detergent ("Discharged diluted detergent") and the inner cleaning water ("Discharge inner cleaning water") twice. ing. In addition, the holding time of the diluted detergent per time was 0.5 second, for example. The third cleaning sequence includes “outside cleaning water discharge”, which is executed in parallel with, for example, “diluted detergent discharge” and “inner cleaning water discharge”. Therefore, in FIG. 11C, “inside / outside cleaning water discharge” is set.

  As shown in FIGS. 11A to 11C, for example, when the cleaning process start timing in each cleaning sequence is aligned as t1, the end timing is aligned at the cleaning process end timing t2. That is, the processing time is set to be the same in all cleaning modes.

  The results of carryover tests using the above washing modes are shown in Table 1 below.

  As is clear from Table 1, for example, for analysis item ALP, the cleaning mode 1 in which the cleaning with the diluted detergent is performed twice without “holding the diluted detergent” is the highest among the three cleaning modes. It can be seen that a cleaning effect can be obtained. In addition, with respect to the analysis item hCG, it can be seen that the cleaning mode 2 in which “holding the diluted detergent” is executed for 1.5 seconds can obtain the highest cleaning effect among the three cleaning modes.

  As described above, the cleaning effect varies depending on the compatibility between the presence or absence of the diluted detergent and its duration and the analysis item. As described above, this can be obtained from, for example, empirical results or cleaning test results. In the same type of analysis item, there is a case where a high cleaning effect can be obtained even if a cleaning sequence that exhibits a high cleaning effect for one analysis item is used for the other analysis item.

  Moreover, the diluted detergent (diluted detergent 46a mentioned later) used for washing | cleaning is a detergent which diluted the predetermined detergent so that it might become a predetermined density | concentration with diluents, such as a pure water. For this predetermined concentration, it is preferable to select an optimal concentration by, for example, a trade-off between the cleaning power and the time required for rinsing after cleaning.

  Next, the cleaning operation of the first reagent probe 173 according to the present embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. FIGS. 12 and 13A to 13C are flowcharts showing the cleaning operation of the first reagent probe 173 according to the present embodiment. However, for convenience of explanation, the following explanation will also refer to the dispensing operation of the first reagent by the first reagent dispensing unit 170.

  In this cleaning operation, for example, the control unit 401 shown in FIG. 1 has, as control means, the first reagent dispensing unit 170, the first reagent probe cleaning unit 190, the three-way valve 14-3, the drive mechanism 20, and the like in the above-described configuration. This can be realized by appropriately controlling and operating the syringe 22, the inner cleaning water supply unit 24, the diluted detergent supply unit 44, and the like.

  As shown in FIG. 12, in the main cleaning operation, first, the control unit 401 specifies analysis items that are set in advance so as to measure a sample placed in the target cuvette C (step S101). Subsequently, by rotating the first reagent cool box 180, the first reagent bottle 182 storing the first reagent 180a corresponding to the measurement item is moved to the first reagent sorting position 183 (see FIG. 6). (Step S102).

  Next, the control unit 401 controls the drive mechanism 20 to pivot the arm unit 11 to move the first reagent probe 173 onto the first reagent sorting position 183, and then lowers the arm unit 11. Then, the tip of the nozzle 13a of the first reagent probe 173 is inserted into the first reagent bottle 182 from the opening 183a provided at the first reagent sorting position 183 (step S103). Thereby, the tip of the nozzle 13a in the first reagent probe 173 is immersed in the first reagent 180a in the first reagent bottle 182 (see FIG. 5). A first reagent bottle 182 for storing the target first reagent 180a is arranged under the first reagent sorting position 183 by the control unit 401 controlling the first reagent cool box 180.

  Next, the control unit 401 controls the three-way valve 14-3 to connect the tube 14 and the first path 14-1, and shuts off the tube 14 and the second path 14-2. , A predetermined amount of the first reagent 180a is aspirated from the first reagent bottle 182 (step S104). As a result, a predetermined amount of the first reagent 180a is dispensed into the first reagent probe 173.

  Next, the control unit 401 controls the driving mechanism 20 to pull out the first reagent probe 173 from the opening 183a of the first reagent sorting position 183 onto the upper surface 100A, and then pivot the arm unit 11. The first reagent probe 173 is moved onto the first reagent dispensing position 124 (see FIG. 6), and the arm portion 11 is further lowered to move the tip of the nozzle 13a of the first reagent probe 173 to the first reagent dispensing position 124. Insert into the cuvette C through the provided opening 124a (step S105). Under the first reagent dispensing position 124, the cuvette C into which the target sample has been injected is arranged by the control unit 401 controlling the reaction tank 120.

  Next, the controller 401 drives the syringe 22 to discharge a predetermined amount of the first reagent 180a dispensed into the first reagent probe 173 from the tip of the nozzle 13a into the cuvette C (step S106). Thus, a predetermined amount of the first reagent 180a is dispensed into the target cuvette C. In this step, the tube 14 and the first path 14-1 remain connected, and the tube 14 and the second path 14-2 remain blocked. Further, steps S101 to S106 in FIG. 12 are operations for realizing the dispensing step of the first reagent according to the present embodiment.

  When the one-time dispensing operation of the first reagent 180a is completed as described above, the control unit 401 next controls the drive mechanism 20 to place the first reagent probe 173 at the first reagent dispensing position 124. The upper part 100A is pulled out from the opening 124a, and then the arm part 11 is pivoted to move the first reagent probe 173 onto the first reagent probe cleaning position 190a (see FIG. 6) (step S107).

  Next, the control unit 401 acquires the analysis item specified in step S101 (step S108) (type specification step), and then associates with the analysis item by referring to the mode management table shown in FIG. The designated cleaning mode is specified (step S109) (mode specifying step). Note that the analysis item identified in step S101 is stored in, for example, the storage unit 405 in FIG.

  Next, the control unit 401 determines whether or not the cleaning mode identified in step S109 is the cleaning mode 1 (see FIG. 11A) (step S110). As a result of this determination, when the specified cleaning mode is the cleaning mode 1 (Yes in step S110), the control unit 401 proceeds to step S111 and performs the first cleaning mode 1 according to the first cleaning sequence shown in FIG. 11A. A cleaning process for one reagent probe 173 is executed, and then the process proceeds to step S115. The contents of the cleaning process in the cleaning mode 1 shown in step S111 will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. 13A.

  If the result of determination in step S110 is that the cleaning mode specified in step S109 is not cleaning mode 1 (No in step S110), the control unit 401 determines whether or not the specified cleaning mode is cleaning mode 2. (Step S112). As a result of this determination, when the specified cleaning mode is the cleaning mode 2 (Yes in step S112), the control unit 401 proceeds to step S113 and performs the second cleaning mode 2 according to the second cleaning sequence shown in FIG. 11B. A cleaning process for one reagent probe 173 is executed, and then the process proceeds to step S115. The cleaning process in the cleaning mode 2 shown in step S113 will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. 13B.

  If the result of determination in step S112 is that the cleaning mode specified in step S109 is not cleaning mode 2 (No in step S112), the control unit 401 proceeds to step S114 and follows the third cleaning sequence shown in FIG. 11C. The first reagent probe 173 is cleaned in the cleaning mode 3, and then the process proceeds to step S115. The cleaning process in the cleaning mode 3 shown in step S114 will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. 13C.

  When the cleaning process corresponding to the analysis item is executed as in the cleaning steps shown in steps S110 to S114, the control unit 401 next determines whether or not the entire analysis process has been completed, that is, the process is performed again thereafter. It is determined whether or not it is necessary to dispense one reagent 180a (step S115), and when it is necessary to dispense the first reagent 180a again (No in step S115), the process returns to step S101, The dispensing operation of the first reagent 180a using the first reagent probe 173 and the cleaning operation of the first reagent probe 173 are executed. Moreover, when it is not necessary to dispense the 1st reagent 180a again as a result of determination of step S115 (Yes of step S115), the control part 401 complete | finishes a process.

  In the above operation, the time required for the cleaning process in steps S111, S113, and S114 is the same time length as shown in FIGS. 11A to 11C. Therefore, the same number of samples is obtained regardless of which cleaning mode is selected. The time required for the analysis process is not changed. Therefore, the user can easily predict the end time of the analysis process, that is, the machine time of the automatic analyzer 1. In addition, since it is possible to select an optimal cleaning mode for each reagent, the first reagent probe 173 can be effectively cleaned.

..Cleaning mode 1
Here, the cleaning process in the cleaning mode 1 shown in step S111 of FIG. 12 will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 13A. FIG. 13A is a flowchart showing the flow of the cleaning process in the cleaning mode 1.

  As shown in FIG. 13A, in the cleaning process in the cleaning mode 1, the control unit 401 first controls the diluted detergent supply unit 44, and as shown in FIG. The diluted detergent 46a is filled through the diluted detergent introduction tube 42-1 (step S121). At this time, the amount of the diluted detergent 46a to be filled in the diluted detergent storage tank 42 is diluted to a depth that covers a portion of the first reagent probe 173 that may be immersed in the first reagent 180a in the first reagent bottle 182. Any amount that can be formed in the detergent reservoir 42 may be used. Subsequently, the control unit 401 controls the drive mechanism 20 to lower the arm unit 11 so that the tip of the nozzle 13a of the first reagent probe 173 is disposed at the first reagent probe cleaning position 190a. The unit 190 is inserted into the diluted detergent storage tank 42 (see FIG. 8 or 9), and the tip of the nozzle 13a is placed at the diluted detergent suction position 42c (see FIG. 9) (step S122). At this time, the diluted detergent storage tank 42 is filled with the diluted detergent 46a so as to immerse the portion of the outer surface of the first reagent probe 173 in contact with the first reagent 180a, and therefore the outer surface of the first reagent probe 173. Is washed with diluted detergent 46a. Subsequently, the control unit 401 controls the three-way valve 14-3 to connect the tube 14 and the first path 14-1, and shuts off the tube 14 and the second path 14-2. , And the air 22a in the first path 14-1 in the tube 14 is sucked in, so that the diluted detergent 46a filled in the diluted detergent reservoir 42 is removed from the first reagent probe 173 as shown in FIG. (Step S123). Steps S121 to S123 in FIG. 13A correspond to “suction of diluted detergent” in the first cleaning sequence in FIG. 11A.

  Next, the control unit 401 controls the drive mechanism 20 so that the tip of the nozzle 13 a is in the cleaning tank 41 and is set at, for example, the cleaning liquid discharge position 47 b (see FIG. 9) set on the opening 47 a of the waste liquid pipe 47. The first reagent probe 173 is moved so as to be positioned (step S124). Subsequently, the control unit 401 drives the syringe 22 to send the air 22a into the first path 14-1 in the tube 14, so that the diluted detergent 46a in the first reagent probe 173 is removed as shown in FIG. Discharge from the tip of the nozzle 13a (step S125). Thereby, the inside of the first reagent probe 173 is washed with the diluted detergent 46a. In this step, the tube 14 and the first path 14-1 remain connected, and the tube 14 and the second path 14-2 remain disconnected. Further, Step S124 and Step S125 in FIG. 13A correspond to “discharge of diluted detergent” in the first cleaning sequence in FIG. 11A.

  Next, the control unit 401 controls the three-way valve 14-3 to switch the connection destination of the tube 14 from the first path 14-1 to the second path 14-2, and drives the inner cleaning water supply unit 24 in this state. As shown in FIG. 9, the inner cleaning water 25 a flows into the second path 14-2 of the tube 14 to discharge the inner cleaning water 25 a from the tip of the nozzle 13 a of the first reagent probe 173 and By driving the cleaning water supply unit 26 and flowing the outer cleaning water 27a into the tube 45-1, the outer cleaning is performed from the tip of the outer cleaning water discharge nozzle 45 toward the first reagent probe 173 as shown in FIG. Water 27a is discharged (step S126). At this time, as shown in FIG. 9, the position of the discharge port of the outer cleaning water discharge nozzle 45 and the position of the cleaning liquid discharge so that the outer cleaning water 27a flows at least in the portion where the first reagent 180a may be attached. 47b may be set. Thereby, the diluted detergent 46a remaining in the first reagent probe 173 is washed away by the inner washing water 25a, and the diluted detergent 46a remaining on the outer surface of the first reagent probe 173 is washed away by the outer washing water 27a. The discharged inner cleaning water 25a and outer cleaning water 27a are then discharged from the waste liquid pipe 47 formed in the cleaning tank 41 to the waste liquid tank 49 through the drain pipe 48, as shown in FIG. Step S126 in FIG. 13A corresponds to “discharge of inner / outer cleaning water” in the first cleaning sequence in FIG. 11A.

  Next, the control unit 401 determines whether or not the cleaning process from step S121 to step S126 has been performed the number of times set in the cleaning mode 1, that is, twice (step S127). (Yes in S127), the process proceeds to step S115 in FIG. On the other hand, as a result of the determination in step S127, if it has not been executed (No in step S127), the control unit 401 returns to step S121 and executes the subsequent cleaning process (steps S121 to S121).

..Cleaning mode 2
Next, the cleaning process in the cleaning mode 2 shown in step S113 of FIG. 12 will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 13B. FIG. 13B is a flowchart showing the flow of the cleaning process in the cleaning mode 2.

  As shown in FIG. 13B, in the cleaning process in the cleaning mode 2, first, the control unit 401 performs the same operation as in steps S121 to S123 in FIG. 13A, so that the diluted detergent is contained in the first reagent probe 173. 46a is sucked (steps S131 to S133). Steps S131 to S133 in FIG. 13B correspond to “suction of diluted detergent” in the second cleaning sequence in FIG. 11B.

  Next, the control unit 401 controls the drive mechanism 20 so that the tip of the nozzle 13 a is in the cleaning tank 41 and is set at, for example, the cleaning liquid discharge position 47 b (see FIG. 9) set on the opening 47 a of the waste liquid pipe 47. The first reagent probe 173 is moved so as to be positioned (step S134). Subsequently, the control unit 401 waits for a predetermined time to hold the diluted detergent 46a in the first reagent probe 173 for a predetermined time (step S135). Note that step S134 and step S135 in FIG. 13B correspond to “holding diluted detergent” in the second cleaning sequence in FIG. 11B.

  Next, the control unit 401 drives the syringe 22 to discharge the diluted detergent 46a in the first reagent probe 173 (step S136). Thereby, the inside of the first reagent probe 173 is washed with the diluted detergent 46a. In this step, the tube 14 and the first path 14-1 remain connected, and the tube 14 and the second path 14-2 remain disconnected. Further, step S136 in FIG. 13B corresponds to “discharge of diluted detergent” in the second cleaning sequence in FIG. 11B.

  Next, the control unit 401 performs the same operation as Step S126 of FIG. 13A to discharge the inner cleaning water 25a from the first reagent probe 173 and to discharge the outer cleaning water 27a from the outer cleaning water discharge nozzle 45. Discharge (step S137). Thereby, the diluted detergent 46a remaining in the first reagent probe 173 is washed away by the inner washing water 25a, and the diluted detergent 46a remaining on the outer surface of the first reagent probe 173 is washed away by the outer washing water 27a. Thereafter, the control unit 401 proceeds to step S115 illustrated in FIG. The discharged inner cleaning water 25a and outer cleaning water 27a are then discharged from the waste liquid pipe 47 formed in the cleaning tank 41 to the waste liquid tank 49 through the drain pipe 48. Further, step S137 in FIG. 13B corresponds to “discharge of inner / outer cleaning water” in the second cleaning sequence in FIG. 11B.

..Cleaning mode 3
Next, the cleaning process in the cleaning mode 3 shown in step S114 of FIG. 12 will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 13C. FIG. 13C is a flowchart showing the flow of the cleaning process in the cleaning mode 3.

  As shown in FIG. 13C, in the cleaning process in the cleaning mode 3, first, the control unit 401 performs the same operation as in steps S121 to S123 in FIG. 13A, so that the diluted detergent is contained in the first reagent probe 173. 46a is sucked (steps S141 to S143). Note that steps S141 to S143 in FIG. 13C correspond to “suction of diluted detergent” in the third cleaning sequence in FIG. 11C.

  Next, the control unit 401 controls the drive mechanism 20 so that the tip of the nozzle 13 a is in the cleaning tank 41 and is set at, for example, the cleaning liquid discharge position 47 b (see FIG. 9) set on the opening 47 a of the waste liquid pipe 47. The first reagent probe 173 is moved so as to be positioned (step S144). Subsequently, the control unit 401 waits for a predetermined time to hold the diluted detergent 46a in the first reagent probe 173 for a predetermined time (step S145). Note that step S144 and step S145 in FIG. 13C correspond to “holding diluted detergent” in the third cleaning sequence in FIG. 11C.

  Next, the control unit 401 controls the three-way valve 14-3 to switch the connection destination of the tube 14 from the first path 14-1 to the second path 14-2, and drives the inner cleaning water supply unit 24 in this state. Then, by flowing the inner cleaning water 25a into the second path 14-2 in the tube 14, the diluted detergent 46a in the first reagent probe 173 is discharged and the first reagent probe 173 is discharged from the first reagent probe 173 as shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 9, the inner cleaning water 25a is discharged and the outer cleaning water supply unit 26 is driven to allow the outer cleaning water 27a to flow into the tube 45-1. As shown in FIG. The outer cleaning water 27a is discharged toward the first reagent probe 173 (step S146). At this time, as shown in FIG. 9, the position of the discharge port of the outer cleaning water discharge nozzle 45 and the position of the cleaning liquid discharge so that the outer cleaning water 27a flows at least in the portion where the first reagent 180a may be attached. 47b may be set. As a result, the diluted detergent 46a in the first reagent probe 173 is discharged by the inflow of the inner cleaning water 25a, and the first reagent probe 173 is cleaned by the diluted detergent 46a and remains in the first reagent probe 173. Is washed away by the inner washing water 25a, and the diluted detergent 46a remaining on the outer surface of the first reagent probe 173 is washed away by the outer washing water 27a. The discharged diluted detergent 46a, inner cleaning water 25a and outer cleaning water 27a are then discharged from the waste liquid pipe 47 formed in the cleaning tank 41 to the waste liquid tank 49 through the drain pipe 48 as shown in FIG. Discharged. Step S146 in FIG. 13C corresponds to “discharge of diluted detergent” and “discharge of inner / outer cleaning water” in the third cleaning sequence of FIG. 11C.

  Next, the control unit 401 determines whether or not the cleaning process from step S141 to step S146 has been performed for the number of times set in the cleaning mode 3, that is, twice (step S147). (Yes in S147), the process proceeds to step S115 in FIG. On the other hand, if the result of determination in step S147 is not completed (No in step S147), the control unit 401 returns to step S141 and executes the transition cleaning process (steps S141 to S141).

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, since the time required for the cleaning process of the first reagent probe 173 is the same time length regardless of the type of reagent used, any cleaning mode is selected. Even in such a case, the time required for the analysis processing of the same number of samples does not change. Therefore, the user can easily predict the end time of the analysis process, that is, the machine time of the automatic analyzer 1. Further, since it is possible to select an optimal cleaning mode for each analysis item, the first reagent probe 173 can be effectively cleaned. As described above, the present embodiment can be similarly applied to the cleaning process of the second reagent probe 223. Further, the mode management table shown in FIG. 10 is a table in which not the analysis item but the sample type and the cleaning mode are associated with each other, so that it can be similarly applied to the cleaning of the sample probe 123.

  In the present embodiment, the cleaning operation of the first reagent probe 173 is performed for each dispensing operation. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and for example, the same or the same type of reagent is continuously used. In this case, the first reagent probe cleaning operation may be executed every time the continuous dispensing operation is completed.

<Embodiment 2>
Next, an automatic analyzer according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention will be described. The configuration of the automatic analyzer according to the present embodiment is the same as that of the automatic analyzer 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Therefore, the following description is simplified by quoting it.

  FIG. 14 is a flowchart for explaining the cleaning operation of the first reagent probe 173 according to the present embodiment. However, for convenience of explanation, the following explanation will also refer to the dispensing operation of the first reagent by the first reagent dispensing unit 170.

  In the cleaning operation, as in the first embodiment of the present invention, for example, the control unit 401 shown in FIG. 1 drives the first reagent dispensing unit 170, the first reagent probe cleaning unit 190, the three-way valve 14-3, and the drive. This can be realized by appropriately controlling and operating the mechanism 20, the syringe 22, the internal cleaning water supply unit 24, and the diluted detergent supply unit 44.

  As shown in FIG. 14, in the main cleaning operation, first, the control unit 401 causes the user to set an analysis item to be measured in the analysis process (step S201). This can be realized, for example, by displaying a candidate list of analysis items on the display unit 404 in the control mechanism 400 of FIG. 1 and allowing the user to select from among them using the input unit 403.

  Next, the control unit 401 causes the user to set a cleaning mode to be used for each set analysis item (step S202). For example, a list of set analysis items and a list of cleaning mode candidates (for example, cleaning modes 1 to 3) are displayed on the display unit 404 in the control mechanism 400 of FIG. This can be realized by configuring the user to select the cleaning mode using the input unit 403 for each analysis item. The correspondence between the analysis item set by the user and the cleaning mode is held in the storage unit 405 in FIG. 1, for example.

  As described above, when the user sets the analysis item to be measured in the series of analysis processes and the cleaning mode to be used in the cleaning of the first reagent probe 173 when the analysis item is analyzed, the control unit 401 is next set. Performs the same operation as the operation described using Steps S101 to S107 in FIG. 12 in Embodiment 1 of the present invention, and appropriately collects the target reagent from the first reagent bottle 182. After dispensing this to the target cuvette C, the first reagent probe 173 is moved onto the first reagent probe cleaning position 190a (see FIG. 6) (steps S203 to S209).

  Next, the control unit 401 acquires the analysis item specified in step S203 (step S210), and then refers to the correspondence between the analysis item held in the storage unit 405 and the cleaning mode, thereby analyzing the analysis item. The cleaning mode set to is specified (step S211).

  Next, based on the specified cleaning mode, the control unit 401 performs the same operation as the operation described using the steps S110 to S114 in FIG. The first reagent probe 173 is cleaned by executing a cleaning process (see FIGS. 13A to 13C) in the cleaning mode set for each analysis item by the user (steps S212 to S216).

  When the cleaning process in the cleaning mode set in the analysis item is executed as in steps S212 to S216 in FIG. 14, the control unit 401 next determines whether or not the entire analysis process is completed, that is, after that, again. It is determined whether or not it is necessary to dispense the first reagent 180a (step S217), and when it is necessary to dispense the first reagent 180a again (No in step S217), the process returns to step S203 and is appropriately performed. Then, the dispensing operation of the first reagent 180a using the first reagent probe 173 and the cleaning operation of the first reagent probe 173 are executed. Further, as a result of the determination in step S217 in FIG. 14, when it is not necessary to dispense the first reagent 180a again (Yes in step S217 in FIG. 14), the control unit 401 ends the process.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, as in the first embodiment of the present invention, the time required for the cleaning process of the first reagent probe 173 is the same regardless of the type of reagent used. Therefore, the time required for the analysis processing of the same number of samples does not change regardless of which cleaning mode is selected. Therefore, the user can easily predict the end time of the analysis process, that is, the machine time of the automatic analyzer 1. Further, since it is possible to select an optimal cleaning mode for each analysis item, the first reagent probe 173 can be effectively cleaned. As described above, the present embodiment can be similarly applied to the cleaning process of the second reagent probe 223. Further, the mode management table shown in FIG. 10 is a table in which not the analysis item but the sample type and the cleaning mode are associated with each other, so that it can be similarly applied to the cleaning of the sample probe 123.

  Furthermore, according to the present embodiment, since the user can set the cleaning mode for the analysis item, an automatic analyzer that can execute the cleaning process by utilizing the knowledge and experience of the user is provided. It can be realized.

  In the present embodiment, the cleaning operation of the first reagent probe 173 is performed for each dispensing operation. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and for example, the same or the same type of reagent is continuously used. In this case, the first reagent probe cleaning operation may be executed every time the continuous dispensing operation is completed.

  Further, the above embodiment is merely an example for carrying out the present invention, and the present invention is not limited to these, and various modifications according to specifications and the like are within the scope of the present invention. It is obvious from the above description that various other embodiments are possible within the scope of the present invention.

It is a schematic diagram which shows schematic structure of the automatic analyzer by Embodiment 1 or 2 of this invention. It is a perspective view which shows schematic structure of the cuvette used in Embodiment 1 or 2 of this invention. It is a perspective view which shows the modification of the cuvette shown to FIG. 2A. It is a top view which shows schematic structure of the cuvette holder in the reaction tank by Embodiment 1 or 2 of this invention. It is a side view which shows the schematic structural example of the 1st reagent dispensing unit by Embodiment 1 or 2 of this invention. It is sectional drawing which shows schematic internal structure of the 1st reagent dispensing unit by Embodiment 1 or 2 of this invention. FIG. 6 is a top view showing a schematic configuration example around the first reagent dispensing unit on the upper surface of the first reagent dispensing unit and the main unit according to Embodiment 1 or 2 of the present invention. It is an external view which shows the example of a shape of the 1st reagent probe used in Embodiment 1 or 2 of this invention. It is a perspective view which shows the schematic structural example of the 1st reagent probe washing | cleaning unit by Embodiment 1 or 2 of this invention. It is sectional drawing which shows schematic internal structure of the 1st reagent probe washing | cleaning unit by Embodiment 1 or 2 of this invention. It is a figure which shows the example of the mode management table by Embodiment 1 or 2 of this invention. It is a timing chart which shows the processing content of the washing | cleaning sequence of the washing | cleaning mode 1 by Embodiment 1 or 2 of this invention. It is a timing chart which shows the processing content of the cleaning sequence of the cleaning mode 2 by Embodiment 1 or 2 of this invention. It is a timing chart which shows the processing content of the washing | cleaning sequence of the washing | cleaning mode 3 by Embodiment 1 or 2 of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the washing | cleaning operation | movement of the 1st reagent probe by Embodiment 1 of this invention. 6 is a flowchart showing a cleaning operation of the first reagent probe in the cleaning mode 1 according to the first or second embodiment of the present invention. It is a flowchart which shows the washing | cleaning operation | movement of the 1st reagent probe by the washing mode 2 concerning Embodiment 1 or 2 of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the washing | cleaning operation | movement of the 1st reagent probe by the washing mode 3 concerning Embodiment 1 or 2 of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the washing | cleaning operation | movement of the 1st reagent probe by Embodiment 2 of this invention.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Automatic analyzer 11 Arm part 11-1 1st member 11-2 2nd member 11-2a End 11-2b, 11-2e Cavity 11-2c Bottom part 11-2d Hole 11-2f Holding part 11-3 Connecting member 11 -3a, 16a Screw 12 Shaft member 12a Hole 13 Body part 13a Nozzle 13b Expanded diameter part 14, 14-2a Tube 14a Tip part 14-1 First path 14-2 Second path 14-3 Three-way valve 15 Screw cap 15a Convex Units 16 and 17 Holding unit 20 Drive mechanism 22 Syringe 24 Inner cleaning water supply unit 25 Inner cleaning water tank 25a Inner cleaning water 26 Outer cleaning water supply unit 27 Outer cleaning water tank 27a Outer cleaning water 41 Cleaning tank 41a, 42a Cavity 41b Bottom surface 42 Diluted detergent storage tank 42b, 47a Opening 42c Diluted detergent suction position 42-1 Diluted detergent introduction tube 43, 43-1 Tube 44 Diluted detergent supply section 45 Outer cleaning water discharge nozzle 46 Diluted detergent tank 46a Diluted detergent 47 Waste liquid pipe 47b Cleaning liquid discharge position 48 Drain pipe 49 Waste liquid tank 100 Main unit 100A Upper surface 120 Reaction tank 120-1, 180-1 Lid 122b Cuvette Holder 124 First reagent dispensing position 124a, 183a Opening 170 First reagent dispensing unit 172 Axis 173 First reagent probe 180 First reagent cooler 180a First reagent 182 First reagent bottle 182a Insertion port 183 First reagent dispensing Position 190 First reagent probe cleaning unit 190a First reagent probe cleaning position 220 Second reagent dispensing unit 240 Second reagent probe cleaning unit C cuvette 401 Control unit 405 Storage unit e1 locus t1 Cleaning processing start timing t Cleaning processing end timing

Claims (6)

An analyzer equipped with a probe for dispensing any of a plurality of types of liquids containing different components into a predetermined container,
Moving means for moving the probe to a predetermined position;
Suction / discharge means for sucking or discharging a predetermined liquid using the probe;
A cleaning means for cleaning the probe;
Control means for controlling the moving means, the suction / discharge means, and the cleaning means;
Mode management means that associates and manages cleaning modes of the same processing time between different liquid types with different processing contents for each liquid type,
With
The control means controls the moving means and the suction / discharge means, and when one of the plurality of types of liquid is dispensed into the predetermined container by the probe, the type of the dispensed liquid is determined. The mode management unit specifies the cleaning mode associated with the specified liquid type, and controls the moving unit, the suction / discharge unit, and the cleaning unit according to the processing content of the specified cleaning mode. To clean the probe ,
At least one of the cleaning modes associated with each of the different liquid types includes a process of holding a cleaning liquid for cleaning the probe for a predetermined time as the processing content . The predetermined container stores a specimen to be analyzed,
The liquid is a reagent for measuring a specific analysis item for the specimen, and is classified according to the analysis item,
The mode management means manages the cleaning mode of the different processing content for each analysis item,
2. The analyzer according to claim 1, wherein the control means specifies an analysis item corresponding to the dispensed reagent, and specifies a cleaning mode associated with the specified analysis item from the mode management means. .   The analyzer according to claim 1, wherein the liquid is a sample to be analyzed. A probe cleaning method for cleaning a probe for dispensing any of a plurality of types of liquids containing different components into a predetermined container,
A mode management step for managing the cleaning mode in association with the cleaning mode of the same processing time between different types of liquid with different processing contents for each type of liquid;
A dispensing step of dispensing any of the plurality of types of liquids into the predetermined container using the probe;
A type identifying step for identifying the type of the liquid dispensed in the dispensing step;
A mode specifying step for specifying a cleaning mode associated with the type of the liquid specified in the type specifying step;
A cleaning step of cleaning the probe according to the processing content of the cleaning mode specified in the mode specifying step;
Only including,
At least one of the cleaning modes associated with each of the different liquid types includes a process of holding a cleaning liquid for cleaning the probe for a predetermined time as the processing content . The predetermined container stores a specimen to be analyzed,
The liquid is a reagent for measuring a specific analysis item for the specimen, and is classified according to the analysis item,
The mode management step manages a cleaning mode of the different processing content for each analysis item,
The type identifying step identifies the analysis item corresponding to the reagent dispensed in the dispensing step,
The probe cleaning method according to claim 4 , wherein the mode specifying step specifies a cleaning mode associated with the analysis item. The probe cleaning method according to claim 4 , wherein the liquid is a specimen to be analyzed.