AUTOMATIC ANALYZING APPARATUS

An automatic analyzing apparatus comprises a reaction disk on which a reaction tube is placed, a reaction tube transportation mechanism that transports the reaction tube, a controller that controls the reaction tube transportation mechanism to transport the reaction tube to at least one of a sample dispensing position and a reagent dispensing position, the sample dispensing position being a position where a sample is dispensed and the reagent dispensing position being a position where a reagent is dispensed, and transport to the reaction disk the reaction tube for which at least one of the sample and the reagent is dispensed.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is based upon and claims the benefit of priority from the prior Japanese Patent Application No. 2021-194924, filed on Nov. 30, 2021, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD

The embodiments disclosed in the present specification, drawings relate to an automatic analyzing apparatus.

BACKGROUND

An automatic analyzing apparatus is an apparatus that, for instance, optically measures a liquid mixture, which may be obtained by mixing a sample such as a subject sample collected from a subject such as a blood or a standard sample of each inspection item with a reagent that corresponds to each inspection item, and analyzes ingredients of a subject sample corresponding to each inspection item.

Conventionally, automatic analyzing apparatuses comprise a sample dispensing probe and a reagent dispensing probe in order to dispense samples and reagents to a reaction tube placed on a reaction disk. Likewise, such automatic analyzing apparatuses are required to provide a moving mechanism in a horizontal direction in order to move the sample dispensing probe and the reagent dispensing probe to a placement position of the reaction tube placed on the reaction disk. However, providing the moving mechanism in the horizontal direction to each of the sample dispensing probe and the reagent dispensing probe increases a number of parts of the automatic analyzing apparatus, which may make miniaturizing the automatic analyzing apparatus difficult.

Likewise, the automatic analyzing apparatus is required to dispense the sample by bringing a tip of the sample dispensing probe in contact with a bottom portion of the reaction tube in order to dispense an appropriate amount of the sample to the reaction tube. As such, it is required to provide a moving mechanism, to the automatic analyzing apparatus, that vertically moves the sample dispensing probe in order to bring the tip of the sample dispensing probe in contact with the bottom portion of the reaction tube. However, providing the moving mechanism that vertically moves the sample dispensing probe increases the number of parts of the automatic analyzing apparatus, which may make the miniaturization of the automatic analyzing apparatus difficult. For this reason, it is desired to miniaturize the automatic analyzing apparatus while comprising a mechanism to dispense the sample or reagent to the reaction tube.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

With reference to the drawings below, embodiments of an automatic analyzing apparatus will be described. Note that, in the description below, same reference signs are given for components substantially identical in terms of configuration and function, and duplicate description will be given only when necessary.

First Embodiment

FIG.1is a block diagram that illustrates an exemplary functional configuration of the automatic analyzing apparatus1according to a first embodiment. The automatic analyzing apparatus1according to the present embodiment is an apparatus that, for instance, measures ingredients in the sample by measuring a liquid mixture of a sample and a reagent of a measuring target. As shown inFIG.1, the automatic analyzing apparatus1according to the present embodiment, for instance, is configured comprising an analysis mechanism2, an analysis circuit3, a drive mechanism4, an input interface5, an output interface6, a communication interface7, a memory circuit8, and a control circuit9.

The analysis mechanism2adds the reagent used for each inspection item set for the sample to the sample, such as a standard sample or a subject sample. The analysis mechanism2measures a liquid mixture obtained by adding the reagent to the sample, and generates, for instance, a standard data or a subject data. In the present embodiment, the standard data represents a measurement data of an absorbance of the standard sample for which a concentration of the included detection target is known. Likewise, the subject data represents a measurement data of an absorbance of the subject sample. Note that, in the description below, the standard sample and the subject sample may be simply referred to as the “sample” when referred to without distinction.

The analysis circuit3is a processor that generates a calibration data or an analysis data etc., by analyzing the standard data or the subject data generated by the analysis mechanism2. The analysis circuit3reads out an analysis program from the memory circuit8and generates the calibration data and the analysis data etc. according to the program. For instance, the analysis circuit3generates the calibration data that indicates a relationship between the standard data and a preset standard value for the standard sample based on the standard data. Likewise, the analysis circuit3generates the analysis data represented as a concentration value and an activity value of an enzyme based on the subject data and the calibration data of the inspection item corresponding to this subject data. The analysis circuit3outputs the generated calibration data and the analysis data to the control circuit9.

The drive mechanism4drives the analysis mechanism2under the control of the control circuit9. For instance, the drive mechanism4is realized by a gear, a stepping motor, a belt conveyer, and a lead screw etc.

The input interface5, for instance, from a user or via an in-hospital network NW, receives settings about analysis parameters etc. of each inspection item regarding samples requested for measurement. The input interface5, for instance, is realized by such as a mouse, a keyboard, or a touchpad for which commands are input by touching an operating screen. The input interface5is connected to the control circuit9and converts the operating command input by the user to an electrical signal to output the electrical signal to the control circuit9. Note that, in the present embodiment, the input interface5is not limited to comprising a physical operating part such as the mouse or keyboard. Examples of the input interface5may include, for instance, an electrical signal processing circuit that receives an electrical signal corresponding to the operating command input from an external input device provided separately from the automatic analyzing apparatus1and outputs the electrical signal to the control circuit9.

The output interface6is connected to the control circuit9and outputs signal supplied by the control circuit9. The output interface6, for instance, is realized by a display circuit, a printing circuit, and an audio device etc. The display circuit, for instance, includes a CRT display, a liquid crystal display, an organic EL display, an LED display, and a plasma display etc. Note that the display circuit also includes a processing circuit that converts data representing a display target to a video signal and externally outputs the video signal. The printing circuit, for instance, includes a printer. Note that the printing circuit also includes an output circuit which externally outputs data representing a printing target. The audio device, for instance, includes a speaker etc. Note that the audio device also includes an output circuit which externally outputs audio signals.

The communication interface7, for instance, is connected to the in-hospital network NW, and connects the automatic analyzing apparatus1to the in-hospital network NW. The communication interface7performs data communication with the Hospital Information System (HIS) via the in-hospital network NW. Note that the communication interface7may as well as perform data communication with the HIS via a Laboratory Information System (LIS) connected with the in-hospital network NW.

The memory circuit8is configured by a storage medium readable by a processor such as a magnetic storage medium, an optical storage medium, or a semiconductor memory etc. Note that the memory circuit8need not necessarily have to be realized by a single storage device. For instance, the memory circuit8may be realized by a plurality of storage devices.

Also, the memory circuit8stores an analysis program executed in the analysis circuit3and a control program executed in the control circuit9. The memory circuit8stores, for each inspection item, analysis data generated by the analysis circuit3. The memory circuit8stores an inspection order input by the operator or an inspection order which the communication interface7received via the in-hospital network NW.

The control circuit9is a processor that functions as a center of the automatic analyzing apparatus1. The control circuit9realizes functions corresponding to an operational program by executing the operational program stored in the memory circuit8. For instance, the control circuit9realizes a system control function91and a dispensing control function92by executing the control program. Note that, in the present embodiment, a case is explained for which the system control function91and the dispensing control function92are realized by a single processor, but embodiments are not limited to this. For instance, a plurality of independent processors may be combined to configure the control circuit, and the system control function91and the dispensing control function92may be realized by each processor executing the control programs. Note that the control circuit9may comprise a storage area that stores at least a part of the data stored in the memory circuit8.

The system control function91is a function that integrates and controls each part of the automatic analyzing apparatus1based on an input information input from the input interface5. For instance, the control circuit9of the system control function91, along with controlling the drive mechanism4and the analysis mechanism2, controls the analysis circuit3so as to analyze corresponding to the inspection item. Likewise, the system control function91, for instance, controls the dispensing control function92to cause the dispensing control function92to dispense the samples and reagents to the reaction tube. The system control function91configures the controller according to the present embodiment.

The dispensing control function92controls dispensing the samples and reagents to the reaction tube. For instance, the dispensing control function92controls dispensing the standard sample to the reaction tube, dispensing the subject sample to the reaction tube, or dispensing the reagent to the reaction tube in the automatic analyzing apparatus1. The dispensing control function92configures the dispensing controller according to the present embodiment.

Next, based onFIGS.2and3, an exemplary configuration of the analysis mechanism2will be described.FIG.2is a schematic diagram that illustrates a partial configuration of the analysis mechanism2according to the first embodiment.FIG.3is a conceptual diagram that illustrates the partial configuration of the analysis mechanism2according to the first embodiment. As shown inFIGS.2and3, the analysis mechanism2according to the present embodiment is configured comprising a reaction disk201, a constant temperature unit202, a rack sampler203, a reaction tube supplier204, a standard sample storage205, a standard sample dispensing probe206, a subject sample dispensing arm207, a subject sample dispensing probe208, a first reagent storage209, a first reagent dispensing probe210, a second reagent storage211, a second reagent dispensing arm212, a second reagent dispensing probe213, a reaction tube transportation arm214, a photometric unit215, a first agitation unit216, and a second agitation unit217.

The reaction disc201holds a plurality of reaction tubes2011that are circularly arranged. The reaction disk201transports the plurality of reaction tubes2011along a predetermined path. Specifically, during an analyzing operation of the liquid mixture of samples and reagents, the reaction disk201alternatively repeats rotating and stopping by the drive mechanism4in predetermined time intervals. The reaction tube2011, for instance, is formed by glass, polypropylene (PP), or acryl.

A reaction tube placement position is set at a predetermined position on the reaction disk201. The reaction tube placement position, for instance, is set at an intersection of a rotational trajectory, which is the transportation path of the reaction tube2011of the reaction tube transportation arm214, and a rotational trajectory, which is the transportation path of the reaction tube2011of the reaction tube201. The reaction tube2011transported by the reaction tube transportation arm214is placed on the reaction tube placement position.

The constant temperature unit202reserves a heat medium set to a predetermined temperature. The constant temperature unit202warms the liquid mixture contained in the reaction tube2011to a predetermined temperature and keeps it warm by immersing the reaction tube2011in the reserved heat medium.

The rack sampler203supports a sample rack2031in a movable manner, where the sample rack2031may hold a plurality of sample containers that contain samples requested for measurement. Samples such as blood requested for measurement are contained in the plurality of sample containers. In the examples shown inFIGS.2and3, the sample rack2031each holding five sample containers in a row is illustrated.

On the rack sampler203, a transportation area2032for transporting the sample rack2031is provided. That is to say, by using the transportation area2032, the sample rack2031is transported from a feeding position where the sample rack2031is fed, to a collecting position where the measured sample rack2031is collected. In the transportation area2032, a plurality of sample racks2031aligned in a longitudinal direction is moved in direction D1by the drive mechanism4.

Also, in the rack sampler203is provided a pull-in area2033that pulls in the sample rack2031from the transportation area2032and moves the sample containers held in the sample rack2031to a predetermined sample aspiration position. For instance, the sample aspiration position is set at an intersection of a motional trajectory of the subject sample dispensing probe208in a perpendicular direction, and a motional trajectory of an opening of the sample container held in the sample rack2031and supported by the rack sampler203. In the pull-in area2033, the transported sample rack2031is moved in direction D2by the drive mechanism4.

Likewise, in the rack sampler203, a returning area2034in which the sample rack2031that holds the sample containers for which the samples are aspirated is returned to the transportation area2032is provided. In the returning area2034, the sample rack2031is moved in direction D3by the drive mechanism4.

The reaction tube supplier204is provided in a vicinity of a periphery of the reaction disk201. The reaction tube supplier204, for instance, is configured by comprising a reaction tube container2041and a reaction tube supply rail2042. The reaction tube container2041, for instance, contains a plurality of empty reaction tubes2011. The reaction tube container2041supplies the empty reaction tubes2011to the reaction tube supply rail2042by the control circuit9. The reaction tube supply rail2042, for instance, is inclinedly provided facing a reaction tube supplying position from the reaction tube container2041. For this reason, the reaction tube2011slides on the reaction tube supply rail2042by gravity and moves to the reaction tube supplying position. The reaction tube supplying position, for instance, is set at an intersection of the rotational trajectory, which is the transportation path of the reaction tube2011of the reaction tube transportation arm214, and a motional trajectory of the reaction tube2011on the reaction tube supply rail2042.

The standard sample storage205holds and keeps cool the standard sample containers that contain standard samples used for each inspection item. The standard sample containers held in the standard sample storage205, for instance, are disposable standard sample containers. The standard sample storage205is provided in the vicinity of the periphery of the reaction disk201.

The standard sample dispensing probe206is provided on the standard sample storage205. A standard sample dispensing position to dispense the standard sample to the reaction tube2011is set at a predetermined position below a tip of the standard sample dispensing probe206. The standard sample dispensing position is set at an intersection of the rotational trajectory, which is the transportation path of the reaction tube2011of the reaction tube transportation arm214, and a line segment passing through the standard sample dispensing probe206and vertically extending in an axial direction of the standard sample dispensing probe206. The standard sample dispensing probe206dispenses the standard sample to the reaction tube2011arranged on the standard sample dispensing position under the control of the control circuit9.

The subject sample dispensing arm207is provided between the reaction disk201and the rack sampler203. The subject sample dispensing arm207is provided to be vertically movable in the perpendicular direction by the drive mechanism4. The subject sample dispensing arm207holds the subject sample dispensing probe208on one end.

The subject sample dispensing probe208moves in the vertical direction following the vertical movement of the subject sample dispensing arm207. On this movement trajectory, a subject sample aspiration position to aspirate the subject sample from the sample container held in the sample rack2031on the rack sampler203is set. Likewise, on the movement trajectory of the subject sample dispensing probe208, a subject sample dispensing position to dispense the subject sample aspirated by the subject sample dispensing probe208to the reaction tube2011is set. The subject sample dispensing position is set at an intersection of the rotational trajectory, which is the transportation path of the reaction tube2011of the reaction tube transportation arm214, and a line segment passing through the subject sample dispensing probe208and vertically extending along an axial direction of the subject sample dispensing probe208.

The subject sample dispensing probe208, driven by the drive mechanism4, moves vertically at the subject sample aspiration position. The subject sample dispensing probe208also aspirates the subject sample from the sample container arranged on the subject sample aspiration position under the control of the control circuit9. Furthermore, the subject sample dispensing probe208dispenses the aspirated subject sample to the reaction tube2011arranged on the subject sample dispensing position under the control of the control circuit9.

Note that, in the description below, the standard sample dispensing probe206and the subject sample dispensing probe208may be simply referred to as the “sample dispensing probe” when referred to without distinction. Likewise, the subject sample dispensing position and the standard sample dispensing position may be simply referred to as the “sample dispensing position” when referred to without distinction.

The first reagent storage209holds and keeps cool a first reagent container that contains a first reagent used for each inspection item. The first reagent dispensing probe210is provided on the first reagent storage209. The first reagent storage209is provided in the vicinity of the periphery of the reaction disk201.

The first reagent dispensing probe210is provided on the first reagent storage209. On a predetermined position below a tip of the first reagent dispensing probe210, a first reagent dispensing position to dispense the first reagent to the reaction tube2011is set. The first reagent dispensing position is set at an intersection of the rotational trajectory, which is the transportation path of the reaction tube2011of the reaction tube transportation arm214, and a line segment passing through the first reagent dispensing probe210and vertically extending along an axial direction of the first reagent dispensing probe210. The first reagent dispensing probe210dispenses the first reagent to the reaction tube2011arranged on the first reagent dispensing position under the control of the control circuit9. The first reagent container and the first reagent dispensing probe210may be configured in the same manner as the standard sample container and the standard sample dispensing probe206respectively (FIG.6).

The second reagent storage211keeps cool a plurality of reagent containers that contain a second reagent that makes a pair with the first reagent of a two-reagent system. Although not shown inFIGS.2and3, the second reagent storage211is covered by a detachable reagent cover. A reagent rack2111is provided to be rotatable on the second reagent storage211.

The reagent rack2111circularly arranges and holds the plurality of reagent containers. The reagent rack2111is rotated by the drive mechanism4. A reader (not shown) that reads reagent information from reagent labels attached on the reagent containers is also provided on the second reagent storage211. The reagent information that is read is stored in the memory circuit8. Note that the second reagent kept cool in the second reagent storage211may be a reagent with the same components and concentration as the first reagent kept cool in the first reagent storage209.

A second reagent aspiration position is set on a predetermined position on the second reagent storage. The second reagent aspiration position, for instance, is set at an intersection of the rotational trajectory of the second reagent dispensing probe213, and a motional trajectory of the opening of the reagent container circularly arranged on the reagent rack2111.

The second reagent dispensing arm212is provided in the vicinity of the periphery of the reaction disk201. The second reagent dispensing arm212is provided to be vertically movable in the perpendicular direction and rotatable in the horizontal direction by the drive mechanism4. The second reagent dispensing arm212holds the second reagent dispensing probe213on one end.

The second reagent dispensing probe213rotates along an arc-shaped rotational trajectory, following the rotation of the second reagent dispensing arm212. The second reagent aspiration position is set on this rotational trajectory. Likewise, on the rotational trajectory of the second reagent dispensing probe213, the second reagent dispensing position to dispense the second reagent aspirated by the second reagent dispensing probe213to the reaction tube2011held on the reaction disk201is set. The second reagent dispensing position is set at an intersection of the rotational trajectory of the second reagent dispensing probe213and the rotational trajectory, which is the transportation path of the reaction tube2011of the reaction disk201.

The second reagent dispensing probe213is driven by the drive mechanism4and moves vertically at the second reagent aspiration position or at the second reagent dispensing position on the rotational trajectory. The second reagent dispensing probe213also aspirates the second reagent from the reagent container right below the second reagent aspiration position under the control of the control circuit9. The second reagent dispensing probe213also dispenses the aspirated second reagent to the reaction tube2011right below the second reagent dispensing position under the control of the control circuit9.

Note that, in the description below, the first reagent dispensing probe210and the second reagent dispensing probe213may be simply referred to as the “reagent dispensing position” when referred to without distinction.

The reaction tube transportation arm214transports the reaction tube2011from the reaction tube supplier204to the reaction disk201by the drive mechanism4. For instance, the reaction tube transportation arm214comprises a reaction tube holder to hold the reaction tube2011and a transportation arm to move the reaction tube holder rotationally and vertically. The reaction tube holder, for instance, is a gripper. The transportation arm is provided to be vertically movable in the perpendicular direction and rotatable in the horizontal direction by the drive mechanism4. Note that the reaction tube transportation arm214is one example of a reaction tube transportation mechanism. Likewise, a number of the transportation arm that configures the reaction tube transportation arm214is arbitrary. For instance, the reaction tube transportation arm214may be configured by a plurality of transportation arms.

The reaction tube transportation arm214according to the present embodiment transports the reaction tube2011from the reaction tube supplier204to the reaction disk201such that the reaction tube holder of the reaction tube transportation arm214and the reaction tube2011held in the reaction tube holder pass through the transportation path. The transportation path of the reaction tube2011of the reaction tube transportation arm214, for instance, is formed on the arc-shaped rotational trajectory following a rotation that centers on one end of the transportation arm. Note that the transportation path of the reaction tube2011of the reaction tube transportation arm214is arbitrary. For instance, the transportation path of the reaction tube2011of the reaction tube transportation arm214may be formed on an elliptical trajectory or may be formed on a transportation path without a particular shape.

The reaction tube supplying position, the standard sample dispensing position, the subject sample dispensing position, the first reagent dispensing position, and the reaction tube placement position is set on the transportation path of the reaction tube2011of the reaction tube transportation arm214. The reaction tube transportation arm214transports the reaction tube2011held at the reaction tube supplying position to each position on the rotational trajectory, under the control of the control circuit9. Note that the reaction tube transportation arm214may transport the reaction tube2011to the second reagent dispensing position.

The photometric unit215optically measures the liquid mixture of the sample and reagent dispensed in the reaction tube2011. The photometric unit215has a light source and a photodetector. The photometric unit215irradiates light from the light source under the control of the control circuit9. The irradiated light incidents from a first side wall of the reaction tube2011and emits from a second side wall opposite the first wall. The photometric unit215detects light emitted from the reaction tube2011by the photodetector.

Specifically, for instance, the photodetector is arranged on an optical axis of the light irradiated from the light source to the reaction tube2011. The photodetector detects light that has penetrated the liquid mixture of the standard sample and reagent in the reaction tube2011, and generates a standard data represented by absorbance, based on an intensity of the detected light. Likewise, the photodetector detects light that has penetrated the liquid mixture of the subject sample and the reagent in the reaction tube2011, and generates a subject data represented by absorbance, based on the intensity of the detected light. The photometric unit215outputs the generated standard data and the subject data to the analysis circuit3as a measurement result.

The photodetector may be arranged off the optical axis of the light irradiated from the light source to the reaction tube2011. In this case, the photodetector may detect light that has scattered in the liquid in the reaction tube2011, and generate, based on the intensity of the scattered light, the standard data and the subject data.

The first agitation unit216is provided in the vicinity of the periphery of the reaction disk201. The first agitation unit216has a first agitation arm2161and a first agitator provided on a tip of the first agitation arm. The first agitation unit216, by the first agitator, agitates the liquid mixture of the standard sample and the first reagent contained in the reaction tube2011located at a first agitation position on the reaction disk201. Likewise, the first agitation unit216, by the first agitator, agitates the liquid mixture of the subject sample and the first reagent contained in the reaction tube2011located at the first agitation position on the reaction disk201.

A second agitation unit217is provided in the vicinity of the periphery of the reaction disk201. The second agitation unit217has a second agitation arm2171and a second agitator provided on a tip of the second agitation arm. The second agitation unit217, by the second agitator, agitates the liquid mixture of the standard sample, the first reagent, and the second reagent contained in the reaction tube2011located at a second agitation position on the reaction disk201. Likewise, the second agitation unit217, by the second agitator, agitates the subject sample, the first reagent, and the second reagent contained in the reaction tube2011located at the second agitation position on the reaction disk201.

Note that, inFIG.2, the explanation is given for a case where the second reagent aspirated from the second reagent storage211is dispensed to the reaction tube2011by the second reagent dispensing arm212and the second reagent dispensing probe213, but embodiments are not limited to this case. For instance, similar to a case of the first reagent storage209, the second reagent dispensing probe213may be provided on the second reagent storage211. That is to say, the second reagent dispensing probe213is provided on the second reagent storage211holding and keeping cool the second reagent container that contains the second reagent used for each inspection item. The second reagent dispensing position to dispense the second reagent to the reaction tube2011is set at a predetermined position below the tip of the second reagent dispensing probe213. The second reagent dispensing probe213, under the control of the control circuit9, dispenses the second reagent to the reaction tube2011arranged on the second reagent dispensing position by the reaction tube transportation arm214. For instance, the second reagent dispensing position is set at an intersection of the rotational trajectory, which is the transportation path of the reaction tube2011of the reaction tube transportation arm214, and the line segment passing through the second reagent dispensing probe213and vertically extending along an axial direction of the second reagent dispensing probe213. Note that, when providing the second reagent dispensing probe213to the second reagent storage211, the automatic analyzing apparatus1may not comprise the second reagent dispensing arm212.

Next, referring toFIGS.4and5, operational examples of the reaction tube transportation arm214by the automatic analyzing apparatus1according to the present embodiment will be described.FIG.4is a conceptual diagram that describes the transportation path, each position on the transportation path, and operational examples of the reaction tube2011of the reaction tube transportation arm214of the automatic analyzing apparatus1according to the present embodiment.FIG.5is a flowchart that describes a content of a reaction tube transportation control process executed in the automatic analyzing apparatus1according to the present embodiment. The reaction tube transportation control process is a process executed by the system control function91and the dispensing control function92of the control circuit9.

As shown inFIG.4, the reaction tube supplying position P11, the standard sample dispensing position P12, the subject sample dispensing position P13, the first reagent dispensing position P14, and the reaction tube placement position P15are set on the transportation path TP of the reaction tube2011of the reaction tube transportation arm214. Note that an arc-shaped dotted line shown inFIG.4indicates the transportation path TP of the reaction tube2011of the reaction tube transportation arm214. Likewise, portions surrounded by circles shown inFIG.4indicate the reaction tube supplying position P11, the standard sample dispensing position P12, the subject sample dispensing position P13, the first reagent dispensing position P14, and the reaction tube placement position P15.

InFIG.4, when dispensing the standard sample to the reaction tube2011, the reaction tube transportation arm214first moves in the horizontal direction to hold the reaction tube2011at the reaction tube supplying position P11. Next, the reaction tube transportation arm214moves in the horizontal direction to transport the reaction tube2011held at the reaction tube supplying position P11to the standard sample dispensing position P12. The reaction tube transportation arm214moves upward at the standard sample dispensing position P12to bring a bottom portion of the reaction tube2011in contact with the tip of the standard sample dispensing probe206. Then, the standard sample is dispensed to the reaction tube2011. After the standard sample is dispensed to the reaction tube2011, the reaction tube transportation arm214moves downward to pull out the reaction tube2011from the standard sample dispensing probe206. Then, the reaction tube transportation arm214transports the reaction tube2011for which the standard sample is dispensed to the first reagent dispensing position P14or the reaction tube placement position P15.

Likewise, inFIG.4, when dispensing the subject sample to the reaction tube2011, the reaction tube transportation arm214first moves in the horizontal direction to hold the reaction tube2011at the reaction tube supplying position P11. Next, the reaction tube transportation arm214moves in the horizontal direction to transport the reaction tube2011held at the reaction tube supplying position P11to the subject sample dispensing position P13. The reaction tube transportation arm214moves upward at the subject sample dispensing position P13to bring the bottom portion of the reaction tube2011in contact with the tip of the subject sample dispensing probe208. Then, the subject sample is dispensed to the reaction tube2011. After the subject sample is dispensed to the reaction tube2011, the reaction tube transportation arm214moves downward to pull out the reaction tube2011from the subject sample dispensing probe208. Then, the reaction tube transportation arm214transports the reaction tube2011for which the subject sample is dispensed to the first reagent dispensing position P14or the reaction tube placement position P15.

Likewise, inFIG.4, when dispensing the first reagent to the reaction tube2011, the reaction tube transportation arm214first moves in the horizontal direction to transport the reaction tube2011held at the reaction tube supplying position P11, or the reaction tube2011for which the sample has been dispensed, to the first reagent dispensing position P14. Next, the reaction tube transportation arm214moves upward at the first reagent dispensing position P14to arrange the reaction tube2011at a position where the tip of the first reagent dispensing probe210is in a vicinity of the liquid surface of the liquid mixture of the sample and the first reagent in the reaction tube2011when the first reagent is completely dispensed. Then, the first reagent is dispensed to the reaction tube2011. After the first reagent is dispensed to the reaction tube2011, the reaction tube transportation arm214moves downward to pull out the reaction tube2011from the subject sample dispensing probe208. The reaction tube transportation arm214transports the reaction tube2011for which the first reagent is dispensed, to the reaction tube placement position P15.

Likewise, inFIG.4, when placing the reaction tube2011at the reaction disk201, the reaction tube transportation arm214moves in the horizontal direction to transport the reaction tube2011for which the sample or the reagent has been dispensed, to the reaction tube placement position P15. Then, the reaction tube transportation arm214moves downward at the reaction tube placement position P15to place the reaction tube2011that is held at the reaction disk201.

A control about the reaction tube transportation arm214will be described using the flowchart ofFIG.5. When the reaction tube transportation control process according to the present embodiment shown inFIG.5begins, the system control function91of the control circuit9controls the reaction tube transportation arm214to move the reaction tube holder to the reaction tube supplying position P11(Step S11). That is to say, the system control function91rotates the transportation arm of the reaction tube transportation arm214by the drive mechanism4and moves the reaction tube holder to the reaction tube supplying position P11. Next, the system control function91causes the reaction tube holder to hold the reaction tube2011(Step S13). That is to say, the system control function91controls the reaction tube holder of the reaction tube transportation arm214to hold the reaction tube2011at the reaction tube supplying position P11.

Next, the system control function91of the control circuit9controls the reaction tube transportation arm214to transport the reaction tube2011to the sample dispensing position (Step S15). Specifically, when dispensing the standard sample, the system control function91controls the drive mechanism4to rotate the transportation arm of the reaction tube transportation arm214and transport the reaction tube2011to the standard sample dispensing position P12among the sample dispensing positions. Likewise, when dispensing the subject sample, the system control function91controls the drive mechanism4to rotate the transportation arm of the reaction tube transportation arm214and transport the reaction tube2011to the subject sample dispensing position P13among the sample dispensing positions.

Next, the system control function91of the control circuit9controls the reaction tube transportation arm214to raise the reaction tube2011at the sample dispensing position (Step S17). Specifically, the system control function91controls the drive mechanism4to raise the transportation arm of the reaction tube transportation arm214at the standard sample dispensing position P12or the subject sample dispensing position P13and raise the reaction tube2011.

FIG.6is a schematic diagram that schematically illustrates arrangements of the reaction tube2011and the standard sample dispensing probe206arranged on the standard sample dispensing position P12among the sample dispensing positions in the automatic analyzing apparatus1according to the present embodiment. As shown inFIG.6A, at the standard sample dispensing position P12, the system control function91controls the reaction tube transportation arm214to start raising the reaction tube2011. Then, as shown inFIG.6B, the system control function91controls the reaction tube transportation arm214to raise the reaction tube2011and arrange the reaction tube2011such that the bottom portion of the reaction tube2011is brought in contact with the tip of the standard sample dispensing probe206. As such, the system control function91controls the reaction tube transportation arm214and the dispensing control function92to arrange such that the bottom portion of the reaction tube2011is brought in contact with the tip of the standard sample dispensing probe206and dispense the standard sample. Therefore, the automatic analyzing apparatus1may dispense an appropriate amount of the standard sample to the reaction tube2011.

FIG.7is a schematic diagram that schematically illustrates arrangements of the reaction tube2011and the subject sample dispensing probe208arranged on the subject sample dispensing position P13among the sample dispensing positions in the automatic analyzing apparatus1according to the present embodiment. As shown inFIG.7A, at the subject sample dispensing position P13, the system control function91controls the reaction tube transportation arm214to start raising the reaction tube2011. Then, as shown inFIG.7B, the system control function91controls the reaction tube transportation arm214to raise the reaction tube2011and arrange the reaction tube2011such that the bottom portion of the reaction tube2011is brought in contact with the tip of the subject sample dispensing probe208. As such, the system control function91controls the reaction tube transportation arm214and the dispensing control function92to arrange such that the bottom portion of the reaction tube2011is brought in contact with the tip of the subject sample dispensing probe208, and dispense the subject sample. Therefore, the automatic analyzing apparatus1may dispense an appropriate amount of the subject sample to the reaction tube2011.

Note that the arrangement of the tip of the sample dispensing probe relative to the bottom portion of the reaction tube2011arranged on the sample dispensing position is arbitrary. For instance, the system control function91, instead of controlling the reaction tube transportation arm214to raise the reaction tube2011such that the bottom portion of the reaction tube2011is brought in contact with the tip of the sample dispensing probe, may control the reaction tube transportation arm214to raise the reaction tube2011such that the bottom portion of the reaction tube2011is located in the vicinity of the tip of the sample dispensing probe. Here, to locate in the vicinity of the tip of the sample dispensing probe, for instance, is to locate the bottom portion of the reaction tube2011at a position separated by a predetermined distance below from the tip of the sample dispensing probe.

Next, the dispensing control function92of the control circuit9controls the sample dispensing probe to dispense the sample to the reaction tube2011(Step S19). A sample amount to dispense to the reaction tube2011is determined based on the inspection items by the system control function91or the dispensing control function92.

After dispensing the sample to the reaction tube2011, the system control function91of the control circuit9controls the reaction tube transportation arm214to lower the reaction tube2011(Step S21). Specifically, the system control function91controls the drive mechanism4to lower the transportation arm of the reaction tube transportation arm214and lower the reaction tube2011so as to pull out the reaction tube2011from the sample dispensing probe.

Note that, when dispensing the subject sample to the reaction tube2011from Step S15to Step S19, instead of the system control function91controlling the reaction tube transportation arm214to raise the reaction tube2011, the system control function91may also control the subject sample dispensing arm207to lower the subject sample dispensing probe208.

FIG.8is a schematic diagram that schematically illustrates arrangements of the reaction tube2011and the subject sample dispensing probe208arranged on the subject sample dispensing position P13in the automatic analyzing apparatus1according to the first embodiment, and is a figure corresponding toFIG.7. As shown inFIGS.8A and8B, the system control function91controls the subject sample dispensing arm207, for the reaction tube2011arranged on the subject sample dispensing position P13, to lower the subject sample dispensing probe208such that the tip of the subject sample dispensing probe208is brought in contact with the bottom portion of the reaction tube2011. Then, the dispensing control function92controls the subject sample dispensing probe208to dispense the subject sample to the reaction tube2011. After dispensing the subject sample to the reaction tube2011, the system control function91controls the drive mechanism4to raise the subject sample dispensing probe208to raise the subject sample dispensing probe208so as to pull out the sample dispensing probe208from the reaction tube2011. As such, the system control function91controls the reaction tube transportation arm214and the dispensing control function92to arrange such that the tip of the subject sample dispensing probe208is brought in contact with the bottom portion of the reaction tube2011, and dispense the subject sample. Therefore, the automatic analyzing apparatus1may dispense the appropriate amount of the subject sample to the reaction tube2011.

Note that the arrangement of the bottom portion of the reaction tube2011relative to the tip of the subject sample dispensing probe208arranged on the sample dispensing position is arbitrary. For instance, the system control function91, instead of controlling the reaction tube transportation arm214to lower the tip of the subject sample dispensing probe208such that the tip of the subject sample dispensing probe208is brought in contact with the bottom portion of the reaction tube2011, may control the reaction tube transportation arm214to lower the tip of the subject sample dispensing probe208such that the tip of the subject sample dispensing probe208is located in the vicinity of the bottom portion of the reaction tube2011. Here, to locate in the vicinity of the tip of the subject sample dispensing probe208, for instance, is to arrange the tip of the subject sample dispensing probe208at a position separated by a predetermined distance above from the bottom portion of the reaction tube2011.

Next, the system control function91of the control circuit9controls the reaction tube transportation arm214to transport the reaction tube2011to the reagent dispensing position (Step S23). Specifically, when dispensing the first reagent among the reagents, the system control function91controls the drive mechanism4to rotate the transportation arm of the reaction tube transportation arm214and transport the reaction tube2011to the first reagent dispensing position P14among the sample dispensing positions.

Next, the system control function91of the control circuit9controls the reaction tube transportation arm214to raise the reaction tube2011at the reagent dispensing position (Step S25). Specifically, when dispensing the first reagent among the reagents, the system control function91, before starting to dispense the first reagent at the first reagent dispensing position P14among the sample dispensing positions, controls the drive mechanism4to raise the transportation arm of the reaction tube transportation arm214and raise the reaction tube2011.

FIG.9is a schematic diagram that schematically illustrates arrangement of the reaction tube2011and the first reagent dispensing probe210arranged on the first reagent dispensing position P14among the sample dispensing positions in the automatic analyzing apparatus1according to the present embodiment. As shown inFIG.9A, before starting to dispense the first reagent, at the first reagent dispensing position P14, the system control function91controls the reaction tube transportation arm214to raise the reaction tube2011so as to arrange the tip of the first reagent dispensing probe210at a position in the vicinity of the liquid surface of the liquid mixture of the sample and the first reagent when the first reagent is completely dispensed.

Then, as shown inFIG.9B, the system control function91of the control circuit9, when the tip of the first reagent dispensing probe210is arranged on a position in the vicinity of the liquid mixture of the sample and the first reagent when the first reagent is completely dispensed, controls the reaction tube transportation arm214to stop raising the reaction tube2011. Here, the position in the vicinity of the surface of the liquid mixture of the sample and the first reagent when the first reagent is completely dispensed is, as shown inFIG.9C, a position above a height H of the liquid surface of the liquid mixture based on the sample amount and the reagent amount dispensed in the reaction tube2011preset for each inspection item, and is a position in the vicinity of the liquid surface of the liquid mixture.

As such, since the system control function91controls the reaction tube transportation arm214to arrange the tip of the first reagent dispensing probe210in the position in the vicinity of the liquid surface of the liquid mixture of the sample and the first reagent when the first reagent is completely dispensed, the dispensing control function92may bring the liquid surface of the liquid mixture close with the tip of the first reagent dispensing probe210and dispense. As a result, a splattering of reagents may be reduced.

Next, the dispensing control function92of the control circuit9controls the first reagent dispensing probe210to dispense the first reagent to the reaction tube2011(Step S27). The amount of the first reagent to dispense to the reaction tube2011is determined based on the inspection items by the system control function91or the dispensing control function92.

After dispensing the first reagent to the reaction tube2011, the system control function91of the control circuit9controls the reaction tube transportation arm214to lower the reaction tube2011(Step S29). Specifically, the system control function91controls the drive mechanism4to lower the transportation arm of the reaction tube transportation arm214by the drive mechanism4and lower the reaction tube2011so as to pull out the reaction tube2011from the first reagent dispensing probe210.

Next, the system control function91of the control circuit9controls the reaction tube transportation arm214to transport the reaction tube2011to the reaction tube placement position P15of the reaction disk201(Step S31). Specifically, the system control function91controls the drive mechanism4to rotate the transportation arm of the reaction tube transportation arm214and transport the reaction tube2011to the reaction tube placement position P15inFIG.4.

Next, the system control function91of the control circuit9controls the reaction tube transportation arm214to place the reaction tube2011on the reaction disk201(Step S33). That is to say, the system control function91controls the reaction tube holder of the reaction tube transportation arm214to release a hold of the reaction tube2011, insert the reaction tube2011to the reaction disk201, and place the reaction tube2011on the reaction disk201. By Step S33, the reaction tube transportation control process according to the present embodiment is ended.

As described above, according to the automatic analyzing apparatus1in the present embodiment, since the reaction tube transportation arm214transports the reaction tube2011to the reaction tube supplying position P11, the standard sample dispensing position P12, the subject sample dispensing position P13, the first reagent dispensing position P14, and the reaction tube placement position P15on the transportation path TP, there is no need to provide the moving mechanism in the horizontal direction to the sample dispensing probe. As a result, the number of parts of the automatic analyzing apparatus1may be reduced, and the automatic analyzing apparatus1may be miniaturized.

Furthermore, since the automatic analyzing apparatus1controls the reaction tube transportation arm214to raise the reaction tube2011at the standard sample dispensing position P12and the first reagent dispensing position P14, there is no need to provide the moving mechanism in the vertical direction to the standard sample dispensing probe206. As a result, the number of parts of the automatic analyzing apparatus1may be reduced, and the automatic analyzing apparatus1may be miniaturized.

Note that, in the present embodiment described above, the second reagent dispensing probe213rotates along an arc-shaped rotational movement following the rotation of the second reagent dispensing arm212and, by moving to the second reagent dispensing position set on this rotational trajectory, dispense the second reagent to the reaction tube2011transported to the second reagent dispensing position by the reaction disk201, but embodiments are not limited to the second reagent dispensing probe213moving to the second reagent dispensing position and dispensing the second reagent to the reaction tube2011transported to the second reagent dispensing position by the reaction disk201. That is to say, the system control function91may control the reaction tube transportation arm214and the dispensing control function92to raise the reaction tube2011at the second reagent dispensing position and dispense the second reagent.

That is to say, the system control function91controls the reaction tube transportation arm214to hold the reaction tube2011, for which the sample and the first reagent on the reaction disk201has been dispensed, by the reaction tube holder of the reaction tube transportation arm214at the reaction tube placement position P15. Next, the system control function91controls the reaction tube transportation arm214to move the reaction tube transportation arm214upward, and pull out the reaction tube2011from the reaction disk201. Next, the system control function91controls the reaction tube transportation arm214to transport the reaction tube2011to the second reagent dispensing position. Next, the system control function91controls the reaction tube transportation arm214before starting to dispense the second reagent, to raise the reaction tube2011such that the tip of the second reagent dispensing probe213at the second reagent dispensing position is arranged at a position in the vicinity of the liquid surface of the liquid mixture of the sample, the first reagent, and the second reagent in the reaction tube2011when the second reagent is completely dispensed. Then, the dispensing control function92controls the second reagent dispensing probe213to dispenses the second reagent to the reaction tube2011. After the second reagent is dispensed to the reaction tube2011, the system control function91controls the reaction tube transportation arm214to pull out the reaction tube2011from the second reagent dispensing probe213. The system control function91controls the reaction tube transportation arm214to transport the reaction tube2011for which the sample, the first reagent, and the second reagent are dispensed to the reaction tube placement position P15, to insert the reaction tube2011to the reaction disk201, and to place the reaction tube2011on the reaction disk201.

Second Embodiment

In the first embodiment described above, the reaction tube supplying position P11and the standard sample dispensing position P12provided on the transportation path TP of the reaction tube transportation arm214are respectively provided on different positions on the transportation path TP of the reaction tube transportation arm214, but the reaction tube supplying position P11and the standard sample dispensing position P12are not necessarily limited to be provided on different positions. Thus, in a second embodiment, the automatic analyzing apparatus1for which the reaction tube supplying position P11and the standard sample dispensing position P12are in the same position will be described. The detailed description different from a description of the first embodiment described above will be made below. Note that, since the configuration of the automatic analyzing apparatus1according to the present embodiment is the same as the configuration of the automatic analyzing apparatus1ofFIG.1, the description will be omitted.

FIG.10is a conceptual diagram that illustrates a partial configuration of the analysis mechanism2according to the second embodiment, and is a figure corresponding toFIG.3according to the first embodiment described above. As shown inFIGS.2and10, the analysis mechanism2according to the present embodiment is configured comprising the reaction disk201, the constant temperature unit202, the rack sampler203, a reaction tube supplier204a, a standard sample storage205a, a standard sample dispensing probe206a, the subject sample dispensing arm207, the subject sample dispensing probe208, the first reagent storage209, the first reagent dispensing probe210, the second reagent storage211, the second reagent dispensing arm212, the second reagent dispensing probe213, the reaction tube transportation arm214, the photometric unit215, the first agitation unit216, and the second agitation unit217. Note that, since the exemplary configuration of the analysis mechanism2other than the configuration of the reaction tube supplier204a, the standard sample storage205a, and the standard sample dispensing probe206ais the same as the configuration of the first embodiment, description will be omitted.

The reaction tube supplier204ais provided in the vicinity of the periphery of the reaction disk201. The reaction tube supplier204a, for instance, is configured by comprising the reaction tube container2041and the reaction tube supply rail2042. The reaction tube container2041, for instance, contains the plurality of empty reaction tubes2011. The reaction tube container2041supplies the empty reaction tubes2011to the reaction tube supply rail2042by the control circuit9. The reaction tube supply rail2042, for instance, is inclinedly provided facing the reaction tube supplying position from the reaction tube container2041. For this reason, the reaction tube2011slides on the reaction tube supply rail2042by gravity and moves to the reaction tube supplying position. The reaction tube supplying position according to the second embodiment, for instance, is set at an intersection of the rotational trajectory, which is the transportation path of the reaction tube2011of the reaction tube transportation arm214, the motional trajectory of the reaction tube2011on the reaction tube supply rail2042, and the line segment passing through the standard sample dispensing probe206aand vertically extending along an axial direction of the standard sample dispensing probe206a.

The standard sample storage205aholds and keeps cool the standard sample containers that contain the standard sample used for each inspection item. The standard sample containers held in the standard sample storage205a, for instance, are disposable standard sample containers. The standard sample storage205ais provided such that the standard sample dispensing probe206ais arranged above the reaction tube supplying position of the reaction tube supplier204a.

The standard sample dispensing probe206ais provided on the standard sample storage205a. A standard sample dispensing position to dispense the standard sample to the reaction tube2011is set at a predetermined position below a tip of the standard sample dispensing probe206a. The standard sample dispensing position is set at an intersection of the rotational trajectory, which is the transportation path of the reaction tube2011of the reaction tube transportation arm214, the line segment passing through the standard sample dispensing probe206aand vertically extending along an axial direction of the standard sample dispensing probe206a, and the motional trajectory of the reaction tube2011on the reaction tube supply rail2042. The standard sample dispensing probe206adispenses the standard sample to the reaction tube2011located on the standard sample dispensing position under the control of the control circuit9. That is to say, in the present embodiment, the reaction tube supplying position and the standard sample dispensing position are the same positions. Note that, the same position includes the reaction tube supplying position and the standard sample dispensing position being substantially the same positions.

Next, referring toFIGS.11and12, operational examples of the reaction tube transportation arm214when dispensing the standard sample by the automatic analyzing apparatus1according to the present embodiment will be described.FIG.11is a conceptual diagram that describes a transportation path, each position on the transportation path of the reaction tube2011, and operational examples of the reaction tube2011of the reaction tube transportation arm214of the automatic analyzing apparatus1according to the second embodiment, and is a figure corresponding toFIG.4of the first embodiment described above.FIG.12is a flowchart that describes a content of the reaction tube transportation control process when dispensing the standard sample, executed in the automatic analyzing apparatus1according to the second embodiment, and is a figure corresponding toFIG.5of the first embodiment described above. The reaction tube transportation control process is a process executed by the system control function91and the dispensing control function92of the control circuit9. Note that, since the content of the reaction tube transportation control process when dispensing the subject sample is the same as the content of the reaction tube transportation control process according to the first embodiment described above, the description will be omitted.

As shown inFIG.11, the reaction tube supplying position P11, the standard sample dispensing position P12, the subject sample dispensing position P13, the first reagent dispensing position P14, and the reaction tube placement position P15are set on the rotational trajectory of the transportation path TP of the reaction tube2011of the reaction tube transportation arm214. Note that an arc-shaped dotted line shown inFIG.4indicates the rotational trajectory of the transportation path TP of the reaction tube2011of the reaction tube transportation arm214. Likewise, the black circles shown inFIG.11indicates a center of rotation of the transportation arm and the second reagent dispensing arm. Furthermore, portions surrounded by circles shown inFIG.11indicate the reaction tube supplying position P11, the standard sample dispensing position P12, the subject sample dispensing position P13, the first reagent dispensing position P14, and the reaction tube placement position P15. Note that the first reagent dispensing position P14and the reaction tube placement position P15may be configured to be same positions.

As shown inFIG.11, when dispensing the standard sample to the reaction tube2011, first, the reaction tube transportation arm214moves in the horizontal direction and holds the reaction tube2011at the reaction tube supplying position P11. In the automatic analyzing apparatus1according to the present embodiment, the reaction tube supplying position P11and the standard sample dispensing position P12are the same positions. For this reason, the reaction tube transportation arm214does not move in the horizontal direction, but moves upward at the reaction tube supplying position P11, which is the standard sample dispensing position P12, such that the bottom portion of the reaction tube2011is brought in contact with the tip of the standard sample dispensing probe206a. Then, the standard sample is dispensed to the reaction tube2011. After the standard sample has been dispensed to the reaction tube2011, the reaction tube transportation arm214moves downward and pulls out the reaction tube2011from the standard sample dispensing probe206a. Then, the reaction tube transportation arm214transports the reaction tube2011for which the standard sample has been dispensed, to the first reagent dispensing position P14or the reaction tube placement position P15. Note that, since operational examples of the reaction tube transportation arm214when dispensing the subject sample, when dispensing the first reagent, and when placing the reaction tube2011on the reaction disk201, are the same as operational examples of the reaction tube transportation arm214according to the first embodiment, the description will be omitted.

Next, the flowchart ofFIG.12will be used to describe about the control of the reaction tube transportation arm214when dispensing the standard sample according to the present embodiment. In the reaction tube transportation control process according to the present embodiment shown inFIG.12, the process until Step S11and Step S13is the same as the reaction tube transportation control process of the first embodiment described above. Then, after Step S13, the system control function91of the control circuit9according to the present embodiment controls the reaction tube transportation arm214to raise the reaction tube2011at the reaction tube supplying position P11without transporting the reaction tube2011(Step S17). Specifically, in the automatic analyzing apparatus1according to the present embodiment, the reaction tube supplying position P11and the standard sample dispensing position P12are the same positions. That is to say, the position for which the reaction tube holder held the reaction tube2011at the reaction tube supplying position P11is the standard sample dispensing position P12. Accordingly, in the automatic analyzing apparatus1according to the present embodiment, the system control function91, without transporting the reaction tube2011to the standard sample dispensing position P12, controls the drive mechanism4to raise the transportation arm of the reaction tube transportation arm214at the reaction tube supplying position P11which is the standard sample dispensing position P12, and raise the reaction tube2011.

Next, the dispensing control function92of the control circuit9controls the standard sample dispensing probe206to dispense the standard sample from the tip of the standard sample dispensing probe206to the reaction tube2011(Step S41). The amount of standard sample dispensed to the reaction tube2011is determined based on the inspection items by the system control function91or the dispensing control function92. The process of Step S21through Step S33after Step S41is the same as the reaction tube transportation control process of the first embodiment described above, and after the reaction tube2011is placed on the reaction disk201at Step S33, the reaction tube transportation control process of the automatic analyzing apparatus1according to the present embodiment is ended.

As described above, according to the automatic analyzing apparatus1in the present embodiment, since the reaction tube transportation arm214transports the reaction tube2011to the reaction tube supplying position P11, the standard sample dispensing position P12, the subject sample dispensing position P13, the first reagent dispensing position P14, and the reaction tube placement position P15on the transportation path TP same as in the first embodiment described above, there is no need to provide the moving mechanism in the horizontal direction to the sample dispensing probe, and the number of parts of the automatic analyzing apparatus1may be reduced. Likewise, in the automatic analyzing apparatus1according to the present embodiment, since the reaction tube supplying position P11and the standard sample dispensing position P12are the same positions, a transportation distance of the reaction tube2011of the reaction tube transportation arm214may be shortened. As a result, the automatic analyzing apparatus1may be miniaturized.

Third Embodiment

In the first embodiment and the second embodiment described above, the reaction tube supplying position P11provided on the transportation path TP of the reaction tube transportation arm214and the subject sample dispensing position P13are respectively provided on different positions, but the reaction tube supplying position P11and the subject sample dispensing position P13are not necessarily limited to be provided on in different positions. In a third embodiment, the automatic analyzing apparatus1for which the reaction tube supplying position P11and the subject sample dispensing position P13are the same position will be described. The detailed description different from a description of the first embodiment described above will be made below. Note that, since the configuration of the automatic analyzing apparatus1according to the present embodiment is the same as the configuration of the automatic analyzing apparatus1ofFIG.1, the description will be omitted.

FIG.13is a conceptual diagram that illustrates a partial configuration of the analysis mechanism2according to the present embodiment, and is a figure corresponding toFIG.3according to the first embodiment described above. As shown inFIGS.2and13, the analysis mechanism2according to the present embodiment is configured comprising the reaction disk201, the constant temperature unit202, the rack sampler203, a reaction tube supplier204b, the standard sample storage205, the standard sample dispensing probe206, a subject sample dispensing arm207b, a subject sample dispensing probe208b, the first reagent storage209, the first reagent dispensing probe210, the second reagent storage211, the second reagent dispensing arm212, the second reagent dispensing probe213, the reaction tube transportation arm214, the photometric unit215, the first agitation unit216, and the second agitation unit217. Note that, since the exemplary configuration of the analysis mechanism other than the reaction tube supplier204b, the subject sample dispensing arm207b, and the subject sample dispensing probe208baccording to the third embodiment is the same as the configuration of the first embodiment, description will be omitted.

The reaction tube supplier204bis provided in the vicinity of the periphery of the reaction disk201. The reaction tube supplier204b, for instance, is configured by comprising the reaction tube container2041and the reaction tube supply rail2042. The reaction tube container2041, for instance, contains the plurality of empty reaction tube2011. The reaction tube container2041supplies the empty reaction tubes2011to the reaction tube supply rail2042by the control circuit9. The reaction tube supply rail2042, for instance, is inclinedly provided facing the reaction tube supplying position from the reaction tube container2041. For this reason, the reaction tube2011slides on the reaction tube supply rail2042by gravity and moves to the reaction tube supplying position. The reaction tube supplying position according to the third embodiment, for instance, is set at an intersection of the rotational trajectory, which is the transportation path of the reaction tube2011of the reaction tube transportation arm214, the motional trajectory of the reaction tube2011on the reaction tube supply rail2042, and the rotational trajectory of the subject sample dispensing probe208b.

The subject sample dispensing arm207bis provided between the rack sampler203and the reaction tube supplier204. The subject sample dispensing arm207bis provided to be vertically movable in the perpendicular direction and rotatable in the horizontal direction by the drive mechanism4. The subject sample dispensing arm207bholds the subject sample dispensing probe208bon one end.

The subject sample dispensing probe208brotates along the arc-shaped rotational trajectory following the rotation of the subject sample dispensing arm207b. On this rotational trajectory, the subject sample aspiration position to aspirate the sample from the sample containers held at the sample rack2031on the rack sampler203is set. Likewise, on the rotational trajectory of the subject sample dispensing probe208b, the subject sample dispensing position to dispense the subject sample aspirated by the subject sample dispensing probe208bto the reaction tube2011is set. The subject sample dispensing position, for instance, is set at an intersection of the rotational trajectory of the subject sample dispensing probe208b, the rotational trajectory of the transportation path of the reaction tube2011of the reaction tube transportation arm214, and the motional trajectory of the reaction tube2011of the reaction tube supply rail2042. That is to say, according to the present embodiment, the reaction tube supplying position and the subject sample dispensing position are the same positions. Note that, the same position includes the reaction tube supplying position and the subject sample dispensing position being substantially the same positions.

The subject sample dispensing probe208bis driven by the drive mechanism4, and moves in the vertical direction at the subject sample aspiration position or the subject sample dispensing position right above the opening of the sample container held at the rack sampler203. Also, the subject sample dispensing probe208baspirates the sample from the sample containers on the subject sample aspiration position under the control of the control circuit9. Likewise, the subject sample dispensing probe208bdispenses the aspirated sample to the reaction tube2011arranged on the reaction tube supplying position which is the subject sample dispensing position under the control of the control circuit9.

Next, referring toFIGS.14and15, operational examples of the reaction tube transportation arm214when dispensing the subject sample by the automatic analyzing apparatus1according to the present embodiment will be described.FIG.14is a conceptual diagram that describes the transportation path, each position on the transportation path of the reaction tube2011, and operational examples of the reaction tube2011of the reaction tube transportation arm214of the automatic analyzing apparatus1according to the present embodiment, and is a figure corresponding toFIG.4of the first embodiment described above.FIG.15is a flowchart that describes a content of the reaction tube transportation control process when dispensing the subject sample, executed in the automatic analyzing apparatus1according to the third embodiment, and is a figure corresponding toFIG.5of the first embodiment described above. The reaction tube transportation control process is a process executed by the system control function91and the dispensing control function92of the control circuit9. Note that, since content of the reaction tube transportation control function when dispensing the standard sample is the same as content of the reaction tube transportation control process according to the first embodiment described above, the description will be omitted.

As shown inFIG.14, the reaction tube supplying position P11, the standard sample dispensing position P12, the subject sample dispensing position P13, the first reagent dispensing position P14, and the reaction tube placement position P15are set on the rotational trajectory of the transportation path TP of the reaction tube2011of the reaction tube transportation arm214. Note that an arc-shaped dotted line shown inFIG.4indicates the rotational trajectory of the transportation path TP of the reaction tube2011of the reaction tube transportation arm214. Likewise, a dashed line shown inFIG.14indicates the rotational trajectory of the subject sample dispensing arm207b. The black circles indicate the center of rotation of the subject sample dispensing arm207band the second reagent dispensing arm212. Furthermore, portions surrounded by circles shown inFIG.14indicate the reaction tube supplying position P11, the standard sample dispensing position P12, the subject sample dispensing position P13, the first reagent dispensing position P14, and the reaction tube placement position P15.

Likewise, as shown inFIG.14, in the automatic analyzing apparatus1according to the present embodiment, the reaction tube supplying position P11and the subject sample dispensing position P13are the same positions. For this reason, when dispensing the subject sample to the reaction tube2011, first, the subject sample dispensing arm207brotates and moves the subject sample dispensing probe208bto the reaction tube supplying position P11which is the subject sample dispensing position P13. Next, the subject sample dispensing arm207bmoves downward at the reaction tube supplying position P11which is the subject sample dispensing position P13, and lowers the subject sample dispensing probe208bsuch that the tip of the subject sample dispensing probe208bis brought in contact with the bottom portion of the reaction tube2011. The subject sample is then dispensed to the reaction tube2011. After the subject sample has been dispensed to the reaction tube2011, the subject sample dispensing arm207bmoves upward and pulls out the subject sample dispensing probe208bfrom the reaction tube2011. The reaction tube transportation arm214moves in the horizontal direction and holds the reaction tube2011at the reaction tube supplying position P11. Then, the reaction tube transportation arm214transports the reaction tube2011for which the subject sample has been dispensed to the first reagent dispensing position P14or the reaction tube placement position P15.

Note that, since operational examples of the reaction tube transportation arm214when dispensing the standard sample, when dispensing the first reagent, and when placing the reaction tube2011to the reaction disk201are the same as operational examples of the reaction tube transportation arm214according to the first embodiment, description will be omitted.

Likewise, when dispensing the sample, the reaction tube transportation arm214transports the reaction tube2011held at the reaction tube supplying position P11to the first reagent dispensing position P14, and after the first reagent is dispensed to the reaction tube2011at the first reagent dispensing position P14, the reaction tube transportation arm214may transport the reaction tube2011for which the first reagent has been dispensing to the sample dispensing position.

Next, the flowchart ofFIG.15will be used to describe about the control of the reaction tube transportation arm214when dispensing the subject sample according to the present embodiment. When the reaction tube transportation control process according to the present embodiment shown inFIG.15begins, the system control function91controls the subject sample dispensing arm207band the dispensing control function92to move the subject sample dispensing probe208bto the reaction tube supplying position P11, which is the subject sample dispensing position P13, and dispense the subject sample to the reaction tube2011(Step S51).

Specifically, the system control function91controls the drive mechanism4to rotate the subject sample dispensing arm207band move the subject sample dispensing probe208bto the reaction tube supplying position P11. The system control function91controls the subject sample dispensing arm207bto lower the subject sample dispensing probe208bsuch that the tip of the subject sample dispensing probe208bis brought in contact with the bottom portion of the reaction tube2011at the reaction tube supplying position P11which is the standard sample dispensing position P13. Then, the dispensing control function92controls the subject sample dispensing probe208bto dispense the subject sample to the reaction tube2011supplied to the reaction tube supplying position P11. After the subject sample has been dispensed, the system control function91controls the subject sample dispensing arm207bto raise the subject sample dispensing arm207band to pull out the subject sample dispensing probe208bfrom the reaction tube2011. Then, the system control function91controls the subject sample dispensing arm207bto rotate the subject sample dispensing arm207band arrange the subject sample dispensing probe208bat the subject sample aspiration position.

Note that the arrangement of the subject sample dispensing probe208brelative to the bottom portion of the reaction tube2011arranged on the reaction tube supplying position P11, which is the subject sample dispensing position P13, is arbitrary. For instance, the system control function91, instead of controlling the subject sample dispensing arm207bto lower the subject sample dispensing probe208bsuch that the tip of the subject sample dispensing probe208bis brought in contact with the bottom portion of the reaction tube2011, may control the subject sample dispensing arm207bto lower the subject sample dispensing probe208bsuch that the tip of the subject sample dispensing probe208bis located in the vicinity of the bottom portion of the reaction tube2011. Here, to locate in the vicinity of the bottom portion of the reaction tube2011, for instance, is to arrange the tip of the subject sample dispensing probe208bat a position separated by a predetermined distance above from the bottom portion of the sample dispensing probe.

Next, the system control function91of the control circuit9controls the reaction tube transportation arm214to move the reaction tube holder to the reaction tube supplying position P11(Step S53). That is to say, the system control function91controls the drive mechanism4to rotate the transportation arm of the reaction tube transportation arm214and move the reaction tube holder to the reaction tube supplying position P11ofFIG.14.

Next, the system control function91of the control circuit9causes the reaction tube holder to hold the reaction tube2011(Step S55). That is to say, the system control function91of the control circuit9controls the reaction tube holder to hold the reaction tube2011for which the subject sample has been dispensed at the reaction tube supplying position P11ofFIG.14. The process of Step S23to Step S33after this Step S55is the same as the reaction tube transportation control process of the first embodiment described above, and after the reaction tube2011is placed on the reaction disk201at Step S33, the reaction tube transportation control process according to the first embodiment is ended.

As described above, according to the automatic analyzing apparatus1in the present embodiment, since the reaction tube transportation arm214transports the reaction tube2011to the reaction tube supplying position P11, the standard sample dispensing position P12, the first reagent dispensing position P14, and the reaction tube placement position P15on the transportation path TP same as in the first embodiment described above, there is no need to provide a moving mechanism in the horizontal direction to the standard sample dispensing probe206and the first reagent dispensing probe210, and the number of parts of the automatic analyzing apparatus1may be reduced. Likewise, since the reaction tube supplying position P11and the subject sample dispensing position P13became the same position by providing the moving mechanism in the horizontal direction to the subject sample dispensing arm207b, the movement from the reaction tube supplying position P11to the standard sample dispensing position P13may be omitted, and a transportation distance of the reaction tube2011of the reaction tube transportation arm214may be shortened. As a result, the automatic analyzing apparatus1may be miniaturized.

Modified First Example According to First to Third Embodiments

When the reagent is dispensed in the automatic analyzing apparatus1according to the first to the third embodiments described above, it is also possible to modify to lower the reaction tube2011in response to the height of the liquid surface of the liquid mixture of the sample and reagent. The detailed description different from a description of the first embodiment described above will be made below as a modified first example when applying this modified example to the first embodiment.

FIG.16is a schematic diagram that schematically illustrates arrangements of the reaction tube2011and the first reagent dispensing probe210arranged on the first reagent dispensing position P14among the reagent dispensing positions in the automatic analyzing apparatus1according to the modified first example of the first embodiment, and is a diagram corresponding toFIG.9according to the first embodiment described above.

First, as shown inFIG.16A, the system control function91controls the reaction tube transportation arm214at the first reagent dispensing position P14among the reagent dispensing positions before starting to dispense the first reagent, to raise the reaction tube2011such that the bottom portion of the reaction tube2011arranged on the first reagent dispensing position P14is brought in contact with the tip of the first reagent dispensing probe210. Note that the arrangement of the tip of the first reagent dispensing probe210relative to the reaction tube2011arranged on the first reagent dispensing position P14before starting to dispense the first reagent, is arbitrary. For instance, the system control function91, instead of controlling the reaction tube transportation arm214to raise the reaction tube2011such that the bottom portion of the reaction tube2011arranged on the first reagent dispensing position210is brought in contact with the tip of the first reagent dispensing probe210, may control the reaction tube transportation arm214to raise the reaction tube2011so such that the bottom portion of the reaction tube2011arranged on the first reagent dispensing position P14is located in the vicinity of the tip of the first reagent dispensing probe210.

Next, the system control function91, while the first reagent is dispensed to the reaction tube2011, controls the reaction tube transportation arm214and dispensing control function92to lower the reaction tube2011and dispense the first reagent in response to the height of the liquid surface of the liquid mixture of the sample and reagent in the reaction tube2011. That is to say, as shown inFIG.16B, the system control function91, while the first reagent is dispensed to the reaction tube2011by the dispensing control function92, controls the reaction tube transportation arm214to lower the reaction tube2011so as to dispense the first reagent at a speed identical or similar to a raising speed of the liquid surface of the liquid mixture based on a dispensing speed of reagent preset for each inspection item. By this, as shown inFIG.16C, the system control function91may control the dispensing control function92to dispense the first reagent to the reaction tube2011while keeping a relative position between the tip of the first reagent dispensing probe210and the liquid surface of the liquid mixture.

As described above, in the automatic analyzing apparatus1according to the modified first example of the first embodiment, since the system control function91controls the reaction tube transportation arm214before starting to dispense the first reagent, to raise the reaction tube2011such that the bottom portion of the reaction tube2011arranged on the first reagent dispensing position210is brought in contact with the tip of the first reagent dispensing probe210, and since the system control function91controls the reaction tube transportation arm214and dispensing control function92, while the first reagent is dispensed to the reaction tube2011, to lower the reaction tube2011and dispense the reagent to the reaction tube2011in response to the height of the liquid surface of the liquid mixture of the sample and reagent in the reaction tube2011, it is possible to bring close the liquid surface of the liquid mixture with the tip of the first reagent dispensing probe210and dispense the first reagent. As a result, the splattering of reagents may be reduced.

Note that the description about the modified first example described above may also be applied when the system control function91controls the reaction tube transportation arm214to transport the reaction tube2011to the second reagent dispensing position and dispense the second reagent. Likewise, although the description about the modified first example described above is a description for a case applied to the first embodiment, it is clear that the present modified example may also be applied to the second embodiment and the third embodiment.

Modified Second Example According to First to Third Embodiments

In the automatic analyzing apparatus1according to the first to the third embodiments described above, when the reaction tube transportation arm214comprises the tilting mechanism that tilts the reaction tube2011, it is also possible to modify to tilt the reaction tube2011before starting to dispense the reagent, such that the reagent is dispensed to the inner wall of the reaction tube2011. The detailed description different from a description of the first embodiment described above will be made below as a modified second example when applying this modified example to the first embodiment.

The reaction tube transportation arm214of the modified second example according to the first embodiment transports the reaction tube2011from the reaction tube supplier204to the reaction disk201by the drive mechanism4. For instance, the reaction tube transportation arm214comprises the reaction tube holder to hold the reaction tube2011, one transportation arm to rotate and vertically move the reaction tube holder, and the tilting mechanism to tilt the reaction tube2011relative to the reagent dispensing probe. The reaction tube holder, for instance, is the gripper. The transportation arm is provided to be vertically movable in the perpendicular direction and rotatable in the horizontal direction by the drive mechanism4. The tilting mechanism is a mechanism that tilts the reaction tube2011under the control of the control circuit9, and for instance, consists of the motor. Note that the reaction tube transportation arm214is one example of the reaction tube transportation mechanism. Likewise, the number of the transportation arm that configures the reaction tube transportation arm214is arbitrary. For instance, the reaction tube transportation arm214may be configured by the plurality of transportation arms.

FIG.17is a schematic diagram that schematically illustrates arrangements of the reaction tube2011and the first reagent dispensing probe210arranged on the first reagent dispensing position P14among the reagent dispensing positions in the automatic analyzing apparatus1according to the modified second example of the first embodiment, and is a diagram corresponding toFIG.9of the first embodiment described above.

First, as shown inFIG.17A, before starting to dispense the first reagent, at the first reagent dispensing position P14among the reagent dispensing positions, the system control function91controls the reaction tube transportation arm214to raise the reaction tube2011. Then, the system control function91controls the reaction tube transportation arm214to stop raising the reaction tube2011when the tip of the first reagent dispensing probe210is arranged on a position in the vicinity of the liquid surface of the liquid mixture of the sample and the first reagent when the first reagent is completely dispensed. Here, the position in the vicinity of the liquid surface of the sample and the first reagent when the first reagent is completely dispensed, as shown inFIG.17, is a position above the height of the liquid surface of the liquid mixture based on the sample amount and the reagent amount dispensed in the reaction tube2011preset for each inspection item, and is the position in the vicinity of the liquid surface of the liquid mixture.

Next, as shown inFIG.17B, the system control function91, before starting to dispense the first reagent at the position where a rising of the reaction tube2011has been stopped, controls the tilting mechanism of the reaction tube transportation arm214to tilt the reaction tube2011so as to have an angle θ relative to a central axis of the first reagent dispensing probe210. By this, the first reagent is dispensed to the inner wall2011cof the reaction tube2011. Note that the dashed line shown inFIG.17indicates the central axis of the first reagent dispensing probe210. Likewise, the angle θ tilting the reaction tube2011, for instance, is between 1°˜40°.

As described above, in the automatic analyzing apparatus1according to the modified first example of the first embodiment, since the system control function91controls the tilting mechanism of the reaction tube transportation arm214before starting to dispense the first reagent, to raise the reaction tube2011such that the tip of the first reagent dispensing probe210is arranged on the position in the vicinity of the liquid surface of the liquid mixture of the sample and the first reagent when the first reagent is completely dispensed, and tilt the reaction tube2011by the tilting mechanism so as to dispense the first reagent to the inner wall2011cof the reaction tube2011c, it is possible to bring close the inner wall2011cof the reaction tube2011with the tip of the first reagent dispensing probe210and dispense the first reagent. As a result, the splattering of reagents may be reduced.

Note that the description about the modified second example described above may also be applied when the system control function91controls the reaction tube transportation arm214to transport the reaction tube2011to the second reagent dispensing position and dispense the second reagent. Likewise, although the description about the modified second example described above is the description applied to the first embodiment, it is clear that the present modified example may also be applied to the second embodiment and the third embodiment.

Modified Third Example According to First to Third Embodiments

In the automatic analyzing apparatus1according to the first to the third embodiments described above, when the reaction tube transportation arm214comprises the tilting mechanism that tilts the reaction tube2011, it is also possible to modify to tilt the reaction tube2011before starting to dispense the reagent such that the reagent is dispensed to the inner wall of the reaction tube2011, and lower the reaction tube2011in response to the height of the liquid surface of the liquid mixture of the sample and reagent while the reagent is dispensed. The detailed description different from a description of the first embodiment described above will be made below as a modified third example when applying this modified example to the first embodiment.

The reaction tube transportation arm214of the modified third example according to the first embodiment transports the reaction tube2011from the reaction tube supplier204to the reaction disk201by the drive mechanism4. For instance, the reaction tube transportation arm214comprises the reaction tube holder to hold the reaction tube2011, one transportation arm to rotate and vertically move the reaction tube holder, and the tilting mechanism to tilt the reaction tube2011relative to the reagent dispensing probe. The reaction tube holder, for instance, is the gripper. The transportation arm is provided to be vertically movable in the perpendicular direction and rotatable in the horizontal direction by the drive mechanism4. The tilting mechanism is the mechanism that tilts the reaction tube2011under the control of the control circuit9, and for instance, consists of the motor. Note that the reaction tube transportation arm214is one example of the reaction tube transportation mechanism. Likewise, the number of the transportation arm that configures the reaction tube transportation arm214is arbitrary. For instance, the reaction tube transportation arm214may be configured by the plurality of transportation arms.

FIG.18is a schematic diagram that schematically illustrates arrangement of the reaction tube2011and the first reagent dispensing probe210arranged on the first reagent dispensing position P14among the reagent dispensing positions of the automatic analyzing apparatus1according to the modified third example of the first embodiment, and is a diagram corresponding toFIG.9of the first embodiment described above.

First, as shown inFIG.18A, before starting to dispense the first reagent at the first reagent dispensing position P14among the reagent dispensing positions, the system control function91controls the reaction tube transportation arm214to raise the reaction tube2011such that the bottom portion of the reaction tube2011arranged on the first reagent dispensing position P14is brought in contact with the tip of the first reagent dispensing probe210. Then, the system control function91, before starting to dispense the first reagent at a position where the reaction tube2011has been raised, controls the tilting mechanism of the reaction tube transportation arm214to tilt the reaction tube2011so as to have the angle θ relative to the central axis of the first reagent dispensing probe210. As such, by tilting the reaction tube2011, it is possible to dispense the first reagent to the inner wall2011cof the reaction tube2011. Note that the dashed line shown inFIG.18indicates the central axis of the first reagent dispensing probe210. Likewise, the angle θ tilting the reaction tube2011, for instance, is 1°˜40°.

Furthermore, the arrangement of the tip of the first reagent dispensing probe210relative to the reaction tube2011arranged on the first reagent dispensing position P14before starting to dispense the first reagent is arbitrary. For instance, the system control function91, instead of controlling the reaction tube transportation arm214to raise the reaction tube2011such that the bottom portion of the reaction tube2011arranged on the first reagent dispensing position P14is brought in contact with the tip of the first reagent dispensing probe210, may control the reaction tube transportation arm214to raise the reaction tube2011such that the bottom portion of the reaction tube2011arranged on the first reagent dispensing position P14is located in the vicinity of the tip of the first reagent dispensing probe210.

Next, the system control function91controls the reaction tube transportation arm214and the dispensing control function92while the first reagent is dispensed to the reaction tube2011to lower the reaction tube2011and dispense the first reagent in response to the height of the liquid surface of the liquid mixture of the sample and reagent in the reaction tube2011. That is to say, as shown inFIG.18B, the system control function91controls the reaction tube transportation arm214while the first reagent is dispensed to the reaction tube2011by the dispensing control function92to lower the reaction tube2011at the speed identical or similar to the raising speed of the liquid surface of the liquid mixture based on the dispensing speed of reagent preset for each inspection item to dispense the first reagent.

As described above, in the automatic analyzing apparatus1according to the modified third example of the first embodiment, since the system control function91controls the reaction tube transportation arm214before starting to dispense the first reagent, to raise the reaction tube2011such that the bottom portion of the reaction tube2011arranged on the first reagent dispensing position P14is brought in contact with the tip of the first reagent dispensing probe210and tilt the reaction tube2011by the tilting mechanism of the reaction tube transportation arm214, and since the system control function91controls the reaction tube transportation arm214and dispensing control function92, while the first reagent is dispensed to the reaction tube2011by the dispensing control function92, to lower the reaction tube2011in response to the height of the liquid surface of the liquid mixture of the sample and reagent in the reaction tube2011, and to dispense the first reagent to the reaction tube2011, it is possible to bring close the liquid surface of the liquid mixture with the tip of the first reagent dispensing probe210and dispense the first reagent. As a result, the splattering of the reagents may be reduced. Likewise, since there is no need to provide the mechanism that vertically moves the first reagent dispensing probe, the number of parts of the automatic analyzing apparatus1may be reduced. As a result, the automatic analyzing apparatus1may be miniaturized.

Note that the description about the modified third example described above may also be applied when the system control function91controls the reaction tube transportation arm214to transport the reaction tube2011to the second reagent dispensing position, and dispense the second reagent. Likewise, although the description about the modified third example described above is a description for a case applied to the first embodiment, it is clear that the present modified example may also be applied to the second embodiment and the third embodiment.

Modified Fourth Example According to First to Third Embodiments

In the automatic analyzing apparatus1according to the first to the third embodiments described above, when the reaction tube transportation arm214comprises the tilting mechanism that tilts the reaction tube2011, it is also possible to modify to tilt the reaction tube2011by the tilting mechanism before starting to dispense the reagent, and transport the reaction tube2011so as to arrange the opening of the reaction tube2011separate from the tip of the first reagent dispensing probe210and arrange the tip of the first reagent dispensing probe210above the position where the liquid surface of the liquid mixture of the sample and the first reagent, when the first reagent is completely dispensed, is presumed to contact the inner wall of the reaction tube2011. Hereinafter, parts that differ from that of the first embodiment described above will be described as a modified fourth example when applying this modified example to the first embodiment.

The reaction tube transportation arm214of the modified fourth example according to the first embodiment transports the reaction tube2011from the reaction tube supplier204to the reaction disk201by the drive mechanism4. For instance, the reaction tube transportation arm214comprises the reaction tube holder to hold the reaction tube2011, one transportation arm to rotate and vertically move the reaction tube holder, and the tilting mechanism to tilt the reaction tube2011relative to the reagent dispensing probe. The reaction tube holder, for instance, is the gripper. The transportation arm is provided to be vertically movable in the perpendicular direction and rotatable in the horizontal direction by the drive mechanism4. The tilting mechanism is the mechanism that tilts the reaction tube2011under the control of the control circuit9, and for instance, consists of the motor. Note that the reaction tube transportation arm214is one example of the reaction tube transportation mechanism. Likewise, the number of the transportation arm that configures the reaction tube transportation arm214is arbitrary. For instance, the reaction tube transportation arm214may be configured by the plurality of transportation arms.

FIG.19is a schematic diagram that schematically illustrates arrangements of the reaction tube2011and the first reagent dispensing probe210arranged on the first reagent dispensing position P14among the reagent dispensing positions in the automatic analyzing apparatus1according to the modified fourth example of the first embodiment, and is a diagram corresponding toFIG.9of the first embodiment described above.

First, as shown inFIG.19A, the system control function91controls the reaction tube transportation arm214to transport the reaction tube2011to the first reagent dispensing position P14among the reagent dispensing positions before starting to dispense the first reagent. Next, as shown inFIG.19B, the system control function91controls the tilting mechanism of the reaction tube transportation arm214to tilt the reaction tube2011before starting to dispense the first reagent so as to have the angle θ relative to the central axis of the first reagent dispensing probe210. At this time, the system control function91controls the reaction tube transportation arm214to arrange the opening of the reaction tube2011separate from the tip of the first reagent dispensing probe210. Furthermore, the system control function91controls the reaction tube transportation arm214to transport the reaction tube2011such that the tip of the first reagent dispensing probe210is arranged above the position where the liquid surface of the liquid mixture of the sample and the first reagent in the reaction tube2011, when the first reagent is completely dispensed, is presumed to contact the inner wall2011cof the reaction tube2011. Note that the dashed line shown inFIG.19indicates the central axis of the first reagent dispensing probe210. Likewise, the angle θ tilting the reaction tube2011, for instance, is 1°˜40°.

Then, the dispensing control function92dispenses the first reagent to the reaction tube2011. That is to say, in the automatic analyzing apparatus1according to the modified fourth example of the first embodiment, the dispensing control function92dispenses the first reagent to the reaction tube2011without raising the reaction tube2011transported to the first reagent dispensing position P14.

Here, the position where the liquid surface of the liquid mixture of the sample and the first reagent in the reaction tube2011when the first reagent is completely dispensed is presumed to contact the inner wall2011cof the reaction tube2011, as shown inFIG.19C, is a position where the liquid surface of the liquid mixture, based on the sample amount and the reagent amount dispensed in the reaction tube2011preset for each inspection item, is presumed to contact the inner wall2011cof the reaction tube2011. The black circles indicated inFIGS.19B and19Cindicates the position RC1where the liquid surface of the liquid mixture of the sample and the first reagent in the reaction tube2011, when the first reagent is completely dispensed, is presumed to contact the inner wall2011cof the reaction tube2011.

As described above, in the automatic analyzing apparatus1according to the modified fourth example of the first embodiment, since the system control function91controls the reaction tube transportation arm214before starting to dispense the first reagent at the first reagent dispensing position P14, to tilt the reaction tube2011and dispense the first reagent such that the opening of the reaction tube2011is arranged separately from the tip of the first reagent dispensing probe210and such that the tip of the first reagent dispensing probe210is arranged above the position RC1where the liquid surface of the liquid mixture of the sample and the first reagent in the reaction tube2011is presumed to contact the inner wall2011cof the reaction tube2011when the first reagent is completely dispensed, it is possible to reduce the splattering of reagents without moving the reaction tube2011vertically.

Note that the description about the modified fourth example described above may also be applied when the system control function91controls the reaction tube transportation arm214to transport the reaction tube2011to the second reagent dispensing position, and dispense the second reagent. Likewise, although the description about the modified fourth example described above is a description for a case applied to the first embodiment, it is clear that the present example may also be applied to the second embodiment and the third embodiment.

Modified Fifth Example According to First to Third Embodiments

In the automatic analyzing apparatus1according to the first to the third embodiments described above, when the reaction tube transportation arm214comprises the tilting mechanism that tilts the reaction tube2011, it is also possible to modify to tilt the reaction tube2011before starting to dispense the reagent, to arrange the opening of the reaction tube2011separate from the tip of the first reagent dispensing probe210, and, while the reagent is dispensed, to move the reaction tube2011such that the tip of the first reagent dispensing probe210is arranged above the position where the liquid surface of the liquid mixture of the sample and the first reagent in the reaction tube2011contacts the inner wall of the reaction tube2011. The detailed description different from a description of the first embodiment described above will be made below as a modified fifth example when applying this modified example to the first embodiment.

The reaction tube transportation arm214of the modified fifth example according to the first embodiment transports the reaction tube2011from the reaction tube supplier204to the reaction disk201by the drive mechanism4. For instance, the reaction tube transportation arm214comprises the reaction tube holder to hold the reaction tube2011, one transportation arm to rotate and vertically move the reaction tube holder, and the tilting mechanism to tilt to the reaction tube2011relative to the reagent dispensing probe. The reaction tube holder, for instance, is the gripper. The transportation arm is provided to be vertically movable in the perpendicular direction and rotatable in the horizontal direction by the drive mechanism4. The tilting mechanism is the mechanism that tilts the reaction tube2011under the control of the control circuit9, and for instance, consists of the motor. Note that the reaction tube transportation arm214is one example of the reaction tube transportation mechanism. Likewise, the number of the transportation arm that configures the reaction tube transportation arm214is arbitrary. For instance, the reaction tube transportation arm214may be configured by the plurality of transportation arms.

FIG.20is a schematic diagram that schematically illustrates arrangements of the reaction tube2011and the first reagent dispensing probe210arranged on the first reagent dispensing position P14among the reagent dispensing positions in the automatic analyzing apparatus1according to the modified fifth example of the first embodiment, and is a diagram corresponding toFIG.9of the first embodiment described above.

First, as shown inFIG.20A, before starting to dispense the first reagent at the first reagent dispensing position P14among the reagent dispensing positions, the system control function91controls the reaction tube transportation arm214to transport the reaction tube2011to the first reagent dispensing position P14among the reagent dispensing positions. Next, the system control function91controls the tilting mechanism of the reaction tube transportation arm214, before starting to dispense the first reagent, to tilt the reaction tube2011so as to have the angle θ relative to the central axis of the first reagent dispensing probe210. At this time, the opening of the reaction tube2011is arranged separately from the tip of the first reagent dispensing probe210, and the tip of the first reagent dispensing probe210is arranged above a position where the bottom portion of the reaction tube2011and the inner wall2011cof the reaction tube2011intersect. Note that the dashed line shown inFIG.20indicates the central axis of the first reagent dispensing probe210. Likewise, the angle θ tilting the reaction tube2011, for instance, is 1°˜40°.

Then, as shown inFIGS.20Band C, while the reagent is dispensed, a horizontal position of a position RC2where the liquid surface of the liquid mixture of the sample and the first reagent in the reaction tube2011changes in response to the amount of the first reagent dispensed to the reaction tube. For this reason, the system control function91controls the reaction tube transportation arm214and the dispensing control function92while the first reagent is dispensed by the dispensing control function92, to move the reaction tube2011and dispense the first reagent such that the tip of the first reagent dispensing probe210is arranged above the position RC2where the liquid surface of the liquid mixture of the sample and the first reagent in the reaction tube2011contacts the inner wall2011cof the reaction tube2011. Note that the black circles shown inFIGS.20Band C indicate the position RC2where the liquid surface of the liquid mixture of the sample and the first reagent in the reaction tube2011contacts the inner wall2011cof the reaction tube2011.

As described above, in the automatic analyzing apparatus1according to the modified fifth example of the first embodiment, since the system control function91controls the reaction tube transportation arm214to tilt the reaction tube2011by the tilting mechanism of the reaction tube transportation arm214before starting to dispense the first reagent at the first reagent dispensing position P14, and since the system control function91controls the reaction tube transportation arm214and the dispensing control function92to arrange the opening of the reaction tube2011separate from the tip of the first reagent dispensing probe210while the reagent is dispensed, and dispenses the first reagent such that the tip of the first reagent dispensing probe210is arranged above the position RC2where the liquid surface of the liquid mixture of the sample and the first reagent in the reaction tube2011contacts the inner wall2011cof the reaction tube2011, it is possible to reduce the splattering of reagents without moving the reaction tube2011vertically.

Note that the description about the modified fifth example described above may also be applied when the system control function91controls the reaction tube transportation arm214, to transport the reaction tube2011to the second reagent dispensing position, and dispense the second reagent. Likewise, although the description about the modified fifth example described above is a description for a case applied to the first embodiment, it is clear that the present modified example may also be applied to the second embodiment and the third embodiment.

Other Modified Examples According to First to Third Embodiments

The automatic analyzing apparatus1of the first to the third embodiments described above described about applying to the automatic analyzing apparatuses performing biochemical inspection, but embodiments are not limited to this. That is to say, the first to the third embodiments may be applied to automatic analyzing apparatuses performing blood coagulation analysis inspection.

Likewise, the automatic analyzing apparatus1of the first to the third embodiments described above described a case where inspection items of the two-reagent system is applied, but embodiments are not limited to this. For instance, inspection items of a one-reagent system may be applied. In this case, either one of the first reagent and the second reagent does not exist, thus not dispensed.

Note that the word “processor” used in above descriptions means circuits such as, for example, a Central Processing Unit (CPU), a Graphics Processing Unit (GPU), an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), a programmable logic device (for example, a Simple Programmable Logic Apparatus (SPLD), a Complex Programmable Logic Apparatus (CPLD), and a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA)). The processor executes functions by reading and executing programs stored in the memory. Note that programs may be configured to be directly integrated in the processor instead of being storing in the memory. In this case, the processor realizes functions by reading and executing programs stored in the circuit. Note that the processor is not limited to the case arranged as a single processor circuit, but may be configured as a single processor by combining a plurality of independent circuits to realize functions. Furthermore, a plurality of component elements may be integrated into one processor to realize the functions.

While certain embodiments have been described, these embodiments have been presented by way of example only and are not intended to limit the scope of the inventions. The embodiments may be in a variety of other forms. Furthermore, various omissions, substitutions and changes may be made without departing from the spirit of the inventions. The embodiments and their modifications are included in the scope and the subject matter of the invention, and at the same time included in the scope of the claimed inventions and their equivalents.