Patent ID: 12259315

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

In each drawing for illustrating following embodiments, the same members are basically denoted by the same reference numerals and letters, and repeated description thereof will be omitted. In order to make the drawing easier understand, even a plan view may be hatched.

Ultrasonic Transducer Holder

FIG.1is a front view illustrating a state in which a container is attached to an ultrasonic transducer holder as an example.FIG.2is a side view (a side view viewed in an X direction inFIG.1) of the ultrasonic transducer holder illustrated inFIG.1as seen from an ultrasonic transducer side. In the following description, a front view refers to a view illustrating, among four surfaces between a top surface and a bottom surface of the ultrasonic transducer holder, the surface of a direction in which an ultrasonic transducer10, an ultrasonic transducer holder101, a protective layer11, and a container13are arranged in a lateral direction. When there are two surfaces in a direction of visual recognition as described above, as illustrated inFIG.1, a front view is a view illustrating a surface on which the ultrasonic transducer10, the ultrasonic transducer holder101, and the protective layer11are arranged in order from a left side of the paper. A view on an opposite side of the front view is a rear view. A view illustrating a side surface other than the front and rear surfaces of the four surfaces described above is called a side view (for example, seeFIG.2). Further, in each drawing, arrows indicate directions of X, Y, and Z, which are orthogonal to each other, in order to indicate from which direction the drawing is viewed. An X-Y plane, including the X and Y directions, forms a horizontal plane, and the Z direction forms a vertical direction.

As illustrated inFIG.1, the ultrasonic transducer holder101of the present embodiment has a function of applying ultrasonic waves to the container13containing a liquid sample201to be analyzed. The container13is attachable to and detachable from the ultrasonic transducer holder101. An example of a method for attaching and detaching the container13will be described below. When the container13is detachable, the ultrasonic transducer10and the container13can be separated. In this case, for example, when the container13is used for single use (disposable), the ultrasonic transducer10can be used repeatedly because the container13can be separated and replaced. Further, when cleaning the container13, the cleanability of the container13is improved by cleaning the container13in a state separated from the ultrasonic transducer10.

The ultrasonic transducer holder101has at least the ultrasonic transducer10, the protective layer11that protects the ultrasonic transducer10, and a contact medium12interposed between the protective layer11and the container13. The above are the main parts that the ultrasonic transducer holder101has, and it is not excluded that parts other than the above are included. For example, a lead (not illustrated) for supplying electric power to the ultrasonic transducer10corresponds to this, and is omitted inFIG.1.

The protective layer11is fixed to the ultrasonic transducer10. The protective layer11has a function of transmitting ultrasonic waves to the container13and a protective function of suppressing damage to the ultrasonic transducer10. The protective layer11has a first surface11A, which is a surface fixed to the ultrasonic transducer10, and a second surface11B, which is a rear surface of the first surface11A and is designed to fix the container13via the contact medium12.

When the container13and the ultrasonic transducer holder101are detachable, the ultrasonic transducer10may be damaged when the container13is attached or when the ultrasonic transducer10is used repeatedly. One of the reasons why the ultrasonic transducer10is damaged by repeated use is that the ultrasonic transducer is used for a long time. Damage to the ultrasonic transducer10includes not only the ultrasonic transducer10not operating but also the ultrasonic transducer10not outputting ultrasonic waves as set. When the ultrasonic transducer10does not output ultrasonic waves as set, including the state where the ultrasonic transducer10does not operate, it is not possible to apply correct ultrasonic waves to the container13, which causes a decrease in analysis accuracy.

In the ultrasonic transducer holder101illustrated inFIG.1, the protective layer11is interposed between the container13and the ultrasonic transducer10. The protective layer11is fixed to the ultrasonic transducer10. In other words, the protective layer11is not attached or detached from the ultrasonic transducer10. Therefore, contact or collision between the container13and the ultrasonic transducer10can be avoided during attachment/detachment work. Therefore, risks such as wear and damage of the ultrasonic transducer10can be avoided. Further, as illustrated inFIG.1, the contact medium12is applied not to the ultrasonic transducer10but to the protective layer11. Therefore, it is possible to avoid the risk of wear and damage due to repeated application or the contact medium12to the ultrasonic transducer10. That is, even when the container13is detachable from the ultrasonic transducer holder101, damage to the ultrasonic transducer10can be suppressed. Further, the protective layer11has a function of transmitting the ultrasonic waves output by the ultrasonic transducer10to the container13. As a result, ultrasonic waves can be applied to the container13without bringing the ultrasonic transducer10and the container13into direct contact with each other.

It is preferable to use a piezoelectric ceramic transducer for the ultrasonic transducer10from the viewpoint of high electromechanical conversion efficiency and easy control with an electrical signal. Piezoelectric ceramics have many variations in size, and from the viewpoint of selecting an appropriate size for the ultrasonic transducer10, it is advantageous to use piezoelectric ceramics. The protective layer11is required to have a function of protecting the ultrasonic transducer10and a function of fixing and holding the ultrasonic transducer10. Therefore, it is preferable to use a material that provides high rigidity. In addition, the protective layer11is required to have the property of efficiently transmitting ultrasonic waves. From these points of view, the protective layer11is preferably made of a metal material. Moreover, considering durability, weight, and the like, it is particularly preferable that the protective layer11is made of stainless steel, aluminum, or an alloy thereof. When transmitting ultrasonic waves to the container13through the protective layer11, the ultrasonic waves may be attenuated in the protective layer11. However, when the degree of attenuation is small, the output of the ultrasonic transducer10can be set higher than in the case where the protective layer11is not provided, in consideration of the degree of attenuation, so that correct analysis can be performed.

The protective layer11and the ultrasonic transducer10are adhesively fixed via an adhesive15. Considering the transmission of ultrasonic waves from the ultrasonic transducer10to the protective layer11, an attachment surface10A facing the protective layer11of a plurality of surfaces of the ultrasonic transducer10and a first surface11A of the protective layer11are preferably as smooth surfaces as possible. However, when the adhesive15is interposed between the ultrasonic transducer10and the protective layer11, even when the first surface11A and the attachment surface10A each have slight unevenness, the adhesive15is embedded in this unevenness. Therefore, the transmission characteristics of ultrasonic waves from the ultrasonic transducer10to the protective layer11can be improved. As a modification example of the embodiment illustrated inFIG.1, a non-adhesive contact medium can be used in place of the adhesive15, similarly to the contact medium12. In this case, other means (for example, a fixing method similar to a pressing structure14described below) for fixing the ultrasonic transducer10and the protective layer11is required, but it is possible to improve transmission characteristics of ultrasonic waves from the ultrasonic transducer10to the protective layer11. Considering the transmission of ultrasonic waves from the ultrasonic transducer10to the protective layer11and the transmission of ultrasonic waves from the protective layer11to the container13, the first surface11A and a second surface11B of the protective layer11are preferably flat surfaces (surfaces that are not curved; plane). Also, the first surface11A and the second surface11B of the protective layer11are preferably parallel to each other. However, as a modification example, one or both of the first surface11A and the second surface11B of the protective layer11may not be planar. Moreover, as another modification example, the first surface11A and the second surface11B of the protective layer11may not be arranged in parallel.

The contact medium12for transmitting ultrasonic waves from the protective layer11fixed to the ultrasonic transducer10to the container13is also called an ultrasonic couplant. The contact medium12is preferably a liquid or sol substance. A gel may be used as the contact medium12, but a liquid or a sol is preferable from the viewpoint of making the thickness of the contact medium12thin or of facilitating the suppression of inclusion of air bubbles. Further, when the contact medium12is supplied through pores as a method of applying the contact medium12, which will be described below, it is particularly preferable that the contact medium12is a liquid or a sol. Examples of the contact medium12include water, oil, glycerol, and the like.

A constituent material of the container13for containing the liquid sample201is desirably one that easily transmits a light ray used in spectroscopic analysis. Moreover, it is more desirable that the constituent material of the container13is chemically stable and has mechanical strength and heat resistance. Generally, as the container13, what is called a spectroscopic analysis cell or cuvette is used. Examples of constituent materials for the cell and cuvette include quartz, glass, acrylic resin, polystyrene resin, and polycarbonate resin, and from these materials, a suitable material can be selected according to the type of the liquid sample201from the viewpoint of the above-described light transmittance, chemical stability, mechanical strength, heat resistance, and the like. In the example illustrated inFIG.1, the container13has an inlet131which is a supply portion for feeding (supplying) the liquid sample201and an outlet132which is a discharge portion for discharging the liquid sample201, so that the liquid sample201can flow. The container13through which the liquid sample201can flow as illustrated inFIG.1is called a flow cell. In the example illustrated inFIG.1, an inlet131is arranged below the container13, and an outlet132is arranged above the container13. Although not illustrated, as a modification example toFIG.1, when the liquid sample201is stored in the container13without flowing, there is also a form in which a supply port and a discharge port are shared. From the viewpoint of suppressing air bubbles from remaining in the container13, it is preferable to arrange the inlet131below the container13as illustrated inFIG.1.

Further, the container13has a side surface13A facing the second surface11B of the protective layer11. The side surface13A is a surface that is pressed against the protective layer11via the contact medium12, and is typically a flat surface (a non-curved surface). When the second surface11B of the protective layer11and the side surface13A of the container13are each flat and face each other, the transmission characteristics of ultrasonic waves from the protective layer11to the container13can be improved.

As illustrated inFIG.2, in the case of the ultrasonic transducer holder101of the embodiment, the planar size of the protective layer11is larger than the planar size of the ultrasonic transducer10in a side view (planar view). As illustrated inFIG.3, the protective layer11has a fixing region11R1to which the ultrasonic transducer10(seeFIG.1) is fixed via the adhesive15(seeFIG.1). The fixing region11R1can be defined as a region extending the plane (attachment surface10A) of the ultrasonic transducer10illustrated inFIG.1in a normal direction (Y direction illustrated inFIG.1). Although the fixing region11R1and a peripheral region11R2will be described below, each of the fixing region11R1and the peripheral region11R2will be described not as a plane but as a three-dimensional portion extending in the Y direction illustrated inFIG.1. In the protective layer11, the fixing region11R1includes a region to which the adhesive15adheres and a region to which the attachment surface10A of the ultrasonic transducer10faces without the adhesive15intervening. When the adhesive15is applied to an outer edge of the fixing region11R1, the adhesive15adheres to the entirety of the fixing region11R1. The protective layer11also includes the peripheral region11R2around the fixing region11R1. Although the peripheral region11R2is not a region that directly contributes to the fixation of the ultrasonic transducer10, the peripheral region11R2has a function as a support structure for supporting the ultrasonic transducer10, or a structure for fixing the ultrasonic transducer holder101(seeFIG.1) itself to a device (not illustrated) or an optical table. The fixing region11R1is required to have ultrasonic transmission characteristics. Further, the peripheral region11R2is required to have such rigidity that it is difficult to deform due to external force and its own weight.

A thickness (length in the Y direction) of the protective layer11illustrated inFIG.1, especially the thickness of the fixing region11R1(seeFIG.3) of the protective layer11, is preferably an integer multiple of half the wavelength of the ultrasonic waves in the protective layer11in order for the protective layer11to resonate with the ultrasonic transducer10. Although the wavelength of the ultrasonic wave is changed according to an analysis target object and the purpose of analysis, for example, when the propagation speed of ultrasonic waves in stainless steel is about 5700 m/sec and the frequency of ultrasonic waves is 2 MHz (megahertz), the length of one wavelength is about 2.8 mm, and the length of a half wavelength is about 1.4 mm. When the thickness of the protective layer11is extremely thin, problems arise such as difficulty in processing or easy deformation due to low rigidity. Therefore, it is preferable that the thickness of the fixing region11R1of the protective layer11be 0.5 times or more the half wavelength of the ultrasonic wave in the protective layer11. Also, the greater the thickness of the fixing region11R1of the protective layer11, the greater the possibility that the degree of attenuation of ultrasonic waves in the protective layer11will increase. Therefore, the thickness of the fixing region11R1of the protective layer11is preferably ten times or less the half wavelength of the ultrasonic wave in the protective layer11. That is, the thickness (for details, the thickness of the fixing region11R1in a direction of the extension of the attachment surface10A of the ultrasonic transducer in the normal direction of the protective layer11) of the protective layer11is preferably 0.5 times or more and 10 times or less of the half wavelength of the ultrasonic wave in the protective layer11.

Although details will be described below as a modification example, the transmission characteristics of ultrasonic waves in the protective layer11are more affected by the thickness of the fixing region11R1than the thickness of the peripheral region11R2. Therefore, a structure in which the fixing region11R1, which has a large influence on the transmission characteristics of the ultrasonic waves, is selectively thin in the protective layer11, and the peripheral region11R2(seeFIG.3), which requires high rigidity as a support structure, is thicker than the fixing region11R1is preferable.

Also, as illustrated inFIG.1, the ultrasonic transducer holder101has a fixing structure that fixes the container13. In the example illustrated inFIG.1, the pressing structure (pressing member)14that presses the container13toward the second surface11B of the protective layer11from a surface of the container13opposite to the side surface13A is adopted as a fixing structure. The pressing structure14illustrated inFIG.1has a mechanism for pressing the container13in a direction (hereinafter referred to as a −Y direction) opposite to the Y direction illustrated inFIG.1. The container13has a pressed surface13B on an opposite side of the side surface13A. The pressing structure14has a mechanism for pressing the pressed surface13B of the container13in the direction (hereinafter referred to as the −Y direction) opposite to the Y direction. The container13pressed by the pressing structure14is pressed against the second surface11B of the protective layer11via the contact medium12. The side surface13A of the container13pressed against the protective layer11is typically planar.

The fixing structure for fixing the container13to the protective layer11via the contact medium12must make the container detachable. Therefore, this fixing structure does not adhere and fix the protective layer11and the container13with the adhesive15, but fixes the container13so that it is not displaced during use. A metal plate, a metal block, a metal rod, a spring, a bolt, a rubber plate, a resin plate, a resin block, a resin rod, and the like can be exemplified as the pressing structure14as an example of the fixing structure. Alternatively, a structure obtained by combining the members described above can be used as the pressing structure14. As a mechanism for pressing the container13by the pressing structure14, the following method can be exemplified. For example, there is a method of pressing the container13against the protective layer11by bringing a bolt screwed into a support plate (not illustrated) into contact with the container13, turning the bolt in this state to protrude in the −Y direction. In this case, by rotating the bolt in an opposite direction, a pressing force on the container13can be removed and the container13can be separated from the ultrasonic transducer holder101. Alternatively, for example, there is a method in which the pressing structure14formed of a metal plate, a metal block, a metal rod, a spring, a bolt, a rubber plate, a resin plate, a resin block, a resin rod, and the like is brought into contact with the container13and the container13is pressed and fixed against the protective layer11using the elasticity of the material forming the pressing structure14or the reaction of force. Examples of a driving force for pressing the pressing structure14against the container13include air pressure, water pressure, hydraulic pressure, and electromagnetic force.

The fixing structure for fixing the container13includes various modification examples other than the pressing structure14illustrated inFIG.1. The fixing structure should be able to bring the container13and the ultrasonic transducer holder101into close contact and separate them. For example, although illustration is omitted, as a modification example toFIG.1, in some cases, the protective layer11and the ultrasonic transducer10of the ultrasonic transducer holder101and the container13are independently held and independently transportable by a transport mechanism portion. In the case of this modification example, the container13and the ultrasonic transducer holder101can be brought into close contact with each other by operating the transport mechanism portion, and can be separated from each other, so that it can be used as a fixing structure.

Modification Example of Protective Layer Structure

FIG.4is a front view of an ultrasonic transducer holder having a modification example of the protective layer illustrated inFIG.1and a container.FIG.5is a cross-sectional view illustrating a cross section cut parallel to the X-Y plane along the line A-A illustrated inFIG.4. In the case of the modification example illustrated inFIGS.4and5, the modification example differs from the embodiment illustrated inFIG.1in that a thickness11T1(seeFIG.4) of the fixing region11R1of the protective layer11is thinner than a thickness11T2of the peripheral region11R2.

Specifically, as illustrated inFIG.5, the protective layer11has a recess portion (groove, hole)11H formed at a position overlapping the fixing region11R1. The recess portion11H is a hole dug from the first surface11A side of the protective layer11toward the second surface11B side. The recess portion11H does not penetrate the protective layer11in a thickness direction (a direction from one of the first surface11A and the second surface11B to the other). A bottom surface11G of the recess portion11H is typically flat. At least a part of the ultrasonic transducer10is inserted into the recess portion11H and adhered and fixed to the bottom surface11G of the recess portion11H via the adhesive15(seeFIG.4). In addition, when the first surface11A is not a flat surface as in this modification example, the bottom surface11G can be regarded as a part of the first surface11A of the protective layer11. In this case, the thickness11T1(seeFIG.4) of a portion interposed between the bottom surface11G and the second surface11B is thinner than the thickness11T2of a portion belonging to the peripheral region11R2. The portion interposed between the bottom surface11G and the second surface11B includes the entirety of the fixing region11R1. The fixing region11R1is defined as a region that extends the attachment surface10A of the ultrasonic transducer10in the normal direction. Therefore, considering the clearance for inserting the ultrasonic transducer10into the recess portion11H, strictly speaking, the bottom surface11G includes the entirety of the fixing region11R1and a part of the peripheral region11R2. However, of the bottom surface11G, an area of the portion belonging to the peripheral region11R2is so small that it can be ignored compared to an area of the portion belonging to the fixing region11R1. Therefore, substantially, the bottom surface11G of the recess portion11H can be regarded as belonging to the fixing region11R1.

In the case of this modification example, of the protective layer11, the thickness11T1(seeFIG.4) of the fixing region11R1that contributes to the transmission of ultrasonic waves is thinner than the thickness of the peripheral region11R2, so the degree of attenuation of ultrasonic waves by the protective layer11can be reduced. Also, the thickness11T2of the peripheral region11R2of the protective layer11can be increased. For example, in the case of this modification example, the peripheral region11R2of the protective layer11is arranged like a frame around the ultrasonic transducer10. As a result, the rigidity of the entirety of the ultrasonic transducer holder101including the ultrasonic transducer10and the protective layer11can be increased. The surface condition of the bottom surface11G to which the ultrasonic transducer10is attached is preferably a flattened surface. However, as described above, when the adhesive15(seeFIG.4) intervenes between the attachment surface10A of the ultrasonic transducer10and the bottom surface11G, since the adhesive15is embedded even when there is some surface roughness, it is possible to suppress deterioration in the transmission characteristics of ultrasonic waves due to the rough surface condition.

Supply of Contact Medium and Placement of Container

Next, a method of supplying the contact medium12, a method of fixing the container13, and a structure of each component of the ultrasonic transducer holder suitable for these processes illustrated inFIG.1orFIG.4will be described.FIG.6is a plan view illustrating the second surface of the protective layer illustrated inFIG.3.FIG.6is a plan view illustrating the second surface11B of the protective layer11. InFIG.6, in order to show a planar positional relationship between the fixing region11R1illustrated inFIG.3and an application region12R illustrated inFIG.6, a region (a region corresponding to the fixing region11R1inFIG.3) where a space obtained by extending the ultrasonic transducer10in the normal direction and the second surface11B intersect is indicated by a two-dot chain line as a fixing region11R3. As described above, each of the fixing region11R1and the peripheral region11R2is defined not as a plane but as a three-dimensional portion extending in the Y direction illustrated inFIG.1, but the region11R3is defined as a surface of the region11R1that intersects the second surface11B.

For the contact medium12illustrated inFIGS.1and4, it is necessary to supply (apply) the contact medium12to the application region12R illustrated inFIG.6. The application region12R is a region to which the contact medium12is to be supplied, and a slight error is allowed between it and a region where the contact medium12is actually arranged. In the example illustrated inFIG.6, the second surface11B of the protective layer11is provided with an application region mark20that is a mark indicating the application region12R of the contact medium12(seeFIG.1). Since the protective layer11is provided with the application region mark20, when a supply position of the contact medium12is displaced, it is possible to visually (optically when using an image sensor, or the like) detect the occurrence of the displacement and the degree of the displacement.

Various methods are conceivable as long as the application region mark20can be visually (optically) recognized when the supply position of the contact medium12is displaced. For example, a method of thinly shaving the second surface11B of the protective layer11along an outer edge of the application region12R to form a marking line can be exemplified. Alternatively, a method of forming the application region mark20by printing it on the second surface11B may be applied. In the case of the method using printing, compared with the method of forming the marking line, the unevenness of the second surface11B of the protective layer11can be kept small, so it is preferable from the viewpoint of suppressing the deterioration of the transmission characteristics of ultrasonic waves.

Also, there are various examples of the shape of the application region mark20. For example,FIG.6illustrates an example in which the application region mark20having a frame shape is formed along the outer edge of the application region12R. In addition, the application region mark20may be partially formed along the outer edge of the application region12R. As an example of this method, for example, when the outer edge of the application region12R forms a quadrangle, a method of forming the application region mark20at least at two or more diagonal corners of four corners of the quadrangle, a method of forming the application region mark20on each of the four sides, or a method of forming the application region marks20on, in addition to the four corners, each side between adjacent corners can be exemplified.

The contact medium12illustrated inFIGS.1and4is applied within a range of the application region mark20illustrated inFIG.6. As an application method, for example, there is a method in which the contact medium12(seeFIG.1) is spread and applied onto the second surface11B of the protective layer11using an application jig such as a brush, a cotton swab, a cloth, or a roller. As another application method, the contact medium12may be applied by flowing or spraying it from a nozzle (not illustrated). As another application method, there is a method or transferring the contact medium12by attaching a plate-shaped transfer jig having a transfer surface pre-coated with the contact medium12to the application region12R. Alternatively, a sponge impregnated with the contact medium12may be used as the transfer jig described above.

As illustrated inFIG.6, the application region12R is a region that includes the region11R3where the space obtained by extending the ultrasonic transducer10(seeFIG.1; the attachment surface10A of the ultrasonic transducer10for details) in the normal direction and the second surface11B intersect. Ultrasonic waves are transmitted from the fixing region11R1(seeFIG.3) and transmitted from the protective layer11to the container13(seeFIG.1) via the application region12R. Therefore, as illustrated inFIG.6, by arranging the application region12R at a position that includes the fixing region11R3, which is the surface opposite to the fixing region11R1, the transmission path of the ultrasonic waves can be arranged linearly. As a modification example toFIG.6, a part of the fixing region11R3may not be included in the application region12R. However, from the viewpoint of efficient transmission of ultrasonic waves, it is particularly preferable that the entirety of the fixing region11R3be included in the application region12R as illustrated inFIG.6.

In addition, focusing on a traveling direction (the Y direction in the example illustrated inFIG.6) of the ultrasonic waves output by the ultrasonic transducer10illustrated inFIGS.1and4, the configuration illustrated inFIG.6can be expressed as follows. That is, the application region12R is a region that includes a region (fixing region11R3) where the space extending the ultrasonic transducer10(seeFIG.1) and the second surface11B intersect in the traveling direction of ultrasonic waves. In this case, similarly to the expression described above, the transmission path of the ultrasonic waves can be arranged linearly, so that the transmission of the ultrasonic waves can be made more efficient.

FIG.7is a plan view illustrating a second surface of a protective layer of the ultrasonic transducer holder which is a modification example toFIG.6.FIG.8is an explanatory view illustrating steps of fixing the container to the ultrasonic transducer holder provided with the protective layer illustrated inFIG.7.FIG.9is an explanatory view illustrating steps that are a modification example toFIG.8.

In an example illustrated inFIGS.7to9, an ultrasonic transducer holder101A (seeFIGS.8and9) differs from the ultrasonic transducer holder101illustrated inFIGS.1and4in that it has a guide member21that guides the fixing of the container13(seeFIGS.8and9) to the application region12R (seeFIG.7). InFIGS.8and9, illustration of the inlet131and the outlet132illustrated inFIG.1is omitted. In the example illustrated inFIGS.8and9, the liquid sample201illustrated inFIG.1is not illustrated because the container13is fixed before the liquid sample201illustrated inFIG.1is supplied into the container13.

In the case of the ultrasonic transducer holder101A, the contact medium12is applied in advance on the second surface11B of the protective layer11as illustrated inFIG.8, for example. Then, the container13is pressed against the protective layer11along the guide member21. Alternatively, as illustrated inFIG.9, the contact medium12is applied in advance onto the side surface13A of the container13. Then, the container.13is pressed against the protective layer11along the guide member21. In the case of the example illustrated inFIG.9, it is preferable that the container13have an application region mark. The method of applying the contact medium12to the container13is the same as the method of applying the contact medium12to the application region12R of the protective layer11described with reference toFIG.6.

In this modification example, the guide member21is fixed to the protective layer11. Since the ultrasonic transducer holder101is provided with the guide member21, it is possible to improve the accuracy of the position to which the container is pressed, thereby preventing displacement of the container13due to repeated mounting work. In addition, when the guide member21is used, there is no need for visual trial and error in the work of pressing the container13. Therefore, the work of pressing the container13can be made more efficient.

In the example illustrated inFIG.7, the guide member21is an L-shaped metal fitting. However, when the guide member21is made of a material that can guide the position of the container13when the container13is pressed against the protective layer11, there are various modification examples in its shape and fixing position. For example, as a modification example of the shape of the guide member21, a pin having a shape such as a U shape, a cylindrical shape, or a prism shape can be exemplified. As for the fixing positions of the guide members21, it is preferable that at least one or more guide members21be fixed around the application region12R illustrated inFIG.7. Moreover, from the viewpoint of improving the alignment accuracy, it is preferable that a plurality of guide members21be formed around the application region12R. However, for example, from the viewpoint of improving the versatility of the types of the containers13that can be fixed, it is preferable that the number of portions of which positions are restricted by the guide members21is small. Therefore, for example, as illustrated inFIG.7, when the application region12R forms a quadrangle in a plan view, for example, a structure in which the guide members21are respectively fixed to the corners at both ends of one side of the quadrangle and the guide members21are not fixed to an opposite side is also conceivable. In this case, the degree of freedom in selecting the container13is improved.

Further,FIGS.10and11illustrate a modification example of the guide member21.FIG.10is a front view illustrating a configuration example of an ultrasonic transducer holder that is a modification example toFIGS.8and9.FIG.11is a cross-sectional view illustrating a cross-section cut parallel to the X-Y plane along line A-A ofFIG.10. The ultrasonic transducer holder101B illustrated inFIG.10is different from the ultrasonic transducer holder101A illustrated inFIG.8in that the guide member21includes a recess portion21A formed from the second surface11B of the protective layer11toward the first surface11A, and a convex portion21B formed on the side surface13A of the container13. The recess portion21A and the convex portion21B have mutually corresponding shapes (shapes that can be engaged with a clearance that allows the convex portion21B to be inserted into the recess portion21A). When the side surface13A of the container13is pushed toward the second surface11B or the protective layer11, as schematically illustrated with an arrow inFIG.11, the convex portion21B is inserted into the recess portion21A. As a result, the container13and the protective layer11can be aligned with high accuracy in the same manner as the guide member21described with reference toFIGS.8and9. In addition, in the case of this modification example, alignment work can be performed efficiently.

Focusing on the shape of the container13, the modification example illustrated inFIGS.10and11can be expressed as follows. That is, the container13has a shape (convex portion21B) corresponding to the shape of the guide member (recess portion21A). InFIGS.10and11, an example in which the rectangular parallelepiped convex portion21B is formed on the container13and the rectangular parallelepiped recess portion21A formed on the protective layer11is described, but there are various modification examples of the method of positioning the container13according to the shapes of the container13and the protective layer11. For example, the convex portion21B and the recess portion21A may have various shapes such as a rectangular parallelepiped shape, a prism, a cylinder, a pyramid, and a hemisphere. In some cases, the convex portion21B may be formed on the second surface11B side of the protective layer11and the recess portion21A corresponding to the convex portion21B may be formed on the side surface13A side of the container13. Moreover, as illustrated inFIGS.8and9, also when each of the second surface11B of the protective layer11and the side surface13A of the container13is a flat surface, it can be considered as one aspect indicating that the shape of the side surface13A of the container13is a shape corresponding to the shape of the application region12R of the protective layer11. Further, as another modification example, the recess portion21A may be formed on the pressing structure14side.

By utilizing the application region mark20illustrated inFIG.6and the guide member21illustrated inFIGS.7to11, the contact medium12(seeFIGS.8to11) can be reliably interposed between the application region12R (seeFIGS.6and7) of the protective layer11and the container13. Although it is preferable that the entirety of the side surface13A of the container13be fixed to the application region12R, when at least a part of the side surface13A is fixed to the application region12R, ultrasonic waves are transmitted into the container13through the part fixed to the application region12R.

Modification Examples of Contact Medium Supply

Next, modification examples of the method of supplying the contact medium12will be described.FIG.12is a front view illustrating a protective layer provided in a modification example of the ultrasonic transducer holder illustrated inFIG.1and a container fixed in a vicinity of the protective layer.FIG.13is a top view schematically illustrating how a contact medium is supplied to a recess of the protective layer illustrated inFIG.12.FIG.14is a front view illustrating a modification example toFIG.12.FIG.15is a top view schematically illustrating how a contact medium is supplied to a recess of a protective layer illustrated inFIG.14. InFIGS.12to15, an outline of a recess31formed in the second surface11B of the protective layer11and a plurality of pores32communicating from the surface of the protective layer11to the recess31are indicated by dotted lines.

Each of an ultrasonic transducer holder101C illustrated inFIGS.12and13and an ultrasonic transducer holder101D illustrated inFIGS.14and15differs from the ultrasonic transducer holder101illustrated inFIG.1in that it has the recess31and the pores32for supplying the contact medium12. Each of the ultrasonic transducer holder101C and the ultrasonic transducer holder101D has a first pore32A (seeFIGS.13to15) for filling the contact medium12(seeFIGS.13and14), and the recess31in contact with the second surface11B of the protective layer11and designed to be filled with the contact medium12as the application region12R. By supplying the contact medium12to the recess31through the first pore32A, the contact medium12can be accurately supplied to the correct position even without the application region mark20(seeFIG.6).

Further, each of the ultrasonic transducer holder101C and the ultrasonic transducer holder101D has a second pore32B for discharging the air (gas) or contact medium12remaining in the recess. By having the second pore32B as a discharge port in addition to the first pore32A as a supply port, the generation of air bubbles in a space surrounded by the recess31and the container13can be suppressed. The examples illustrated inFIGS.12to15show examples in which the contact medium12is supplied after the container13is pressed. However, as a modification example, the container13may be pressed after the recess31is filled with the contact medium12.

The protective layer11provided in each of the ultrasonic transducer holder101C and the ultrasonic transducer holder101D has a third surface (side surface)11C continuous with the second surface11B, a fourth surface (side surface)11D opposite to the third surface, the second surface11B, a fifth surface (upper surface)11E continuous with the third surface11C and the fourth surface11D, and a sixth surface (lower surface)11F opposite to the fifth surface11E.

The recess31is a recess portion provided on the second surface11B of the protective layer11. It is preferable that an opening area (an area of the opening in the second surface11B) of the recess31be equal to or larger than an area of a region in the container13where it is desired to form an aggregation layer by ultrasonic waves. For example, the container13is a cell for spectroscopic analysis, an outer thickness (a length of the container13in the X direction, in other words, a distance from a position where a light beam from a light source is incident on the container13to a position where the light beam is emitted from the container13) of the container13is 3 mm, a total height is 45 mm, an optical path length (a distance that the light beam from the light source passes through the liquid sample201in the container13) is 1 mm, and a length of the aggregation layer in the container13in the Z direction (height direction) is 10 mm. In this case, an opening portion of the recess31preferably has a width (length in the X direction) of 1 mm to 3 mm and a length in a height direction (Z direction) of 10 mm to 45 mm. Further, a depth (length in the Y direction) of the recess31is preferably as shallow as possible within a range where the contact medium12can flow. For example, the depth of the recess31is preferably in a range of 0.01 mm to 0.5 mm.

Further, a pore size of each of the plurality of pores32including the first pore32A and the second pore32B can be determined in consideration of the workability of forming pores and the fluidity of the contact medium12. For example, the pore size of each of the plurality of pores32is within a range of 0.1 mm to 1 mm.

In the case of the ultrasonic transducer holder101C illustrated inFIGS.12and13, on the third surface11C of the protective layer11, end portions of the plurality of first pores32A are exposed, and on the fourth surface11D, end portions of the plurality of second pores32B are exposed. Each of the plurality of first pores32A and second pores32B extends along the X-Y plane. An injector33and a pressure sensor34are connected to each of the plurality of first pores32A via a pipe35. The pipe35for discharge is connected to each of the plurality of second pores32B. In the case of the ultrasonic transducer holder101C, since the plurality of first pores32A and the plurality of second pores32B are arranged along a longitudinal direction of the recess31, filling unevenness in the recess31can be reduced.

On the other hand, in the case of the ultrasonic transducer holder101D illustrated inFIGS.14and15, on the fifth surface11E of the protective layer11, an end portion of the first pore32A is exposed, and on the sixth surface11F, an end portion of the second pore328is exposed. An injector33and a pressure sensor34are connected to the first pore32A through a pipe35. Also, the pipe35for discharge is connected to the second pore32B. Since the number of pores32can be reduced in the case of the ultrasonic transducer holder101D, processing efficiency can be improved.

As a modification example toFIGS.12to15, there is a case where the pores32may be provided on the first surface11A (seeFIG.1) and the second surface11B, However, from the viewpoint of not placing restrictions on the placement of the ultrasonic transducer10(seeFIG.1) and the container13, as illustrated inFIGS.12to15, the pores32are preferably provided on any one of the third surface11C to the sixth surface11F.

Modification Example of Method of Pressing Container

Next, a modification example of the method of pressing the container13will be described.FIG.16is an explanatory view illustrating a modification example of a container fixing method illustrated inFIG.9.FIG.17is an explanatory view illustrating another modification example of the container fixing method illustrated inFIG.9.

The method illustrated inFIG.16has a process of moving the container13obliquely downward while bringing the container13into contact with a roller41to which the contact medium12is adhered. In other words, in the method illustrated inFIG.16, the container13is moved in a direction (−Z direction) opposite to the Z direction in a state where the container13is inclined with respect to an X-Z plane while the container13is brought into contact with the roller41to which the contact medium12is adhered. Through this process, the contact medium12is applied to the container13.

In addition, the method illustrated inFIG.16has a process of applying the contact medium12to the container13and then pressing a surface of the container13coated with the contact medium12against the second surface11B of the protective layer11. In this process, the pressing structure14presses the pressed surface13B of the container13, for example. When the container13is inclined with respect to the X-Z plane, the container13is pressed against the protective layer11while rotating around a position where the container13and the protective layer11are in contact with each other. In this process, for example, the container13may be manually pressed against the protective layer11, and the pressing structure14may be used when the container13is finally fixed.

The method illustrated inFIG.17has a process of moving a nozzle42obliquely downward (−Z direction when inclined with respect to the X-Z plane) while applying the contact medium12to the container13from the nozzle42that ejects (injects, in some cases) the contact medium12. Through this process, the contact medium12is applied to the container13.

Also, similar to the method illustrated inFIG.16, the method illustrated inFIG.17has a process of applying the contact medium12to the container13and then pressing a surface of the container13coated with the contact medium12against the second surface11B of the protective layer11. This process is the same as the process described with reference toFIG.16, so redundant description will be omitted. In addition, in the case of the method illustrated inFIG.17, while the contact medium12is being ejected from the nozzle42, the container13may be pressed against the protective layer11while rotating around a position where the container13and the protective layer11are in contact with each other. In this case, the entirety of the contact medium12is in contact with the protective layer11immediately after the application of the contact medium12is completed.

In the case of the fixing method of the container13illustrated inFIGS.16and17, it is different from the embodiment illustrated inFIG.9in that the container13is pushed against the second surface11B of the protective layer11while rotating from an inclined state. This method is preferable in that air bubbles are less likely to remain in the contact medium12. Moreover, in the case of the fixing method of the container13illustrated inFIGS.16and17, by applying the contact medium12using a contact medium supply device such as the roller41(seeFIG.16) or the nozzle42(seeFIG.17), unevenness in application is less likely to occur than in the case of manual application. Therefore, the in-plane uniformity of the contact medium12can be ensured, and the transmission characteristics of ultrasonic waves can be improved. Although illustration is omitted inFIGS.16and17, the technique using the guide member21described with reference toFIG.9and the like may be combined and applied.

Analysis System

Next, an analysis system using the above-described ultrasonic transducer holder will be described. An analysis system using the ultrasonic transducer holder101illustrated inFIG.1will be described below as a representative example of the analysis system, but various modification examples described above are applicable.FIG.18is an explanatory view (front view) illustrating a configuration example of the analysis system using the ultrasonic transducer holder illustrated inFIG.1.FIG.19is a side view of the ultrasonic transducer holder illustrated inFIG.18as viewed from the ultrasonic transducer side.

As illustrated inFIGS.18and19, an analysis system300of the embodiment includes the ultrasonic transducer holder101, an oscillator50(seeFIG.18) that applies voltage to the ultrasonic transducer10, a light source51(seeFIG.19) that irradiates the container13with light rays, a light receiving portion52that receives light rays transmitted through the container13, and a computer53that analyzes the liquid sample201based on the light rays received by the light receiving portion52.

In the example illustrated inFIG.19, the analysis system300has the oscillator50, the light source51, the light receiving portion52, the computer53, and a spectroscopic analysis portion (spectroscopic analysis device)54. InFIG.19, the computer53and the spectroscopic analysis portion54are illustrated separately. However, the function of the spectroscopic analysis portion54can also be considered as a part of the computer53, as illustrated in parentheses inFIG.19.

The container13has the inlet131for feeding the liquid sample201and the outlet132for discharging the liquid sample201. The light source51and the light receiving portion52are arranged so as to pinch the container13. A light beam55output from the light source51passes through the container13and reaches the light receiving portion52. The light source51and the light receiving portion52are electrically connected with the spectroscopic analysis portion54. Also, the spectroscopic analysis portion54is electrically connected to the computer53. Alternatively, the spectroscopic analysis portion54is a part of the computer. The spectroscopic analysis portion54as a part of the computer53controls the wavelength of the light ray output from the light source51and measures the intensity, absorbance, or spectrum of the light ray based on the light ray received by the light receiving portion52.

As a modification example, the light source51and the light receiving portion52may each be accommodated in the spectroscopic analysis portion54and each connected to an optical fiber. In this modification example, an optical fiber connected to the light source51and an optical fiber connected to the light receiving portion52are arranged to face each other via the container13. A light ray output to the container13emitted from the optical fiber connected to the light source51, and the light ray transmitted through the container13is received by the optical fiber connected to the light receiving portion52. Moreover, as another modification example, there may be a structure in which the ultrasonic transducer holder101, the container13, the pressing structure14, the light source51, the light receiving portion52, the spectroscopic analysis portion54, and the computer53are accommodated in one housing.

The oscillator50is a drive component that drives the ultrasonic transducer10with the set frequency and amplitude and causes the ultrasonic transducer10to emit ultrasonic waves. Although not illustrated inFIGS.18and19, the oscillator50is preferably connected to an amplifying device such as a high frequency amplifier and a measuring device such as an oscilloscope so that an electrical signal applied to the ultrasonic transducer10can be amplified or measured.

Next, agglomeration of suspended matters in the liquid sample201suspended by irradiation of ultrasonic waves and formation of a transparent region thereby will be described. The ultrasonic waves radiated from the ultrasonic transducer10into the container13are reflected on the plane of the container13. A standing wave is formed in the container13when the frequency of the ultrasonic wave is adjusted to a specific frequency. Inside the container13, the suspended matters in the liquid sample201are gathered at the nodes or antinodes of the standing wave by an acoustic radiation force of the ultrasonic waves, and an aggregation layer56is periodically formed. Clear regions with no turbidity or low turbidity concentration are created between a plurality of aggregation layers56formed next to each other at the nodes or antinodes of the standing wave. The presence of this transparent region increases the intensity of transmitted light rays from the light source51and can improve the accuracy of optical analysis of the suspended liquid sample201.

In this section, the analysis system for optical analysis is exemplified and described. However, the ultrasonic transducer holder101can be used for various analysis systems other than the optical analysis system. For example, in order to perform solid-liquid separation as a pre-analytical treatment of an analysis sample to be put into a liquid chromatograph or mass spectrometry without optical analysis, it can be used for solid-liquid separation, gas-liquid separation, or liquid-liquid separation of the liquid sample201. Suspended matters in the liquid sample201are not limited to solid fine particles, and may be, for example, air bubbles, oil droplets in an aqueous solution, or a mixture thereof. According to the analysis system described in this section, the effects described in each embodiment can be obtained by using the ultrasonic transducer holder101or its modified ultrasonic transducer holder.

Analysis Method

Next, an analysis method using the analysis system described with reference toFIGS.18and19will be described.FIG.20is an explanatory view illustrating a process flow of the analysis method using the analysis system illustrated inFIGS.18and19. The analysis method illustrated inFIG.20includes steps S101to S110. Each step illustrated inFIG.20will be described below in order. In the following description of this section, the description “a mechanism controlled by the computer53” means a robot, for example.

(Step S101: Contact Medium Application Process) An operator or a mechanism controlled by the computer53illustrated inFIG.19applies the contact medium12to either the application region12R of the protective layer11illustrated inFIG.6or the side surface13A of the container13illustrated inFIG.9. The method of applying the contact medium12can be exemplified by the method described with reference toFIGS.6to9, the method described with reference toFIGS.12to15, or the method described with reference toFIGS.16and17. In the method described with reference toFIGS.12to15, when supplying the contact medium12into the recess31while pressing the container13against the protective layer11, step S101is performed after steps S102and S103.

(Step S102: Container Alignment Process) The operator or the mechanism controlled by the computer53illustrated inFIG.19attaches the container13illustrated inFIG.1to the ultrasonic transducer holder101. Since the container13is fixed in the next step S103, the container13and the ultrasonic transducer holder101are aligned in this process. As a method of alignment, there is a method of manual trial and error, but it is preferable to perform alignment using the guide member21as described with reference toFIGS.7to11.

(Step S103: Container Fixing Process) The operator or the mechanism controlled by the computer53illustrated inFIG.19presses the pressing structure14illustrated inFIG.1toward the container13and fixes the container13and the ultrasonic transducer holder101in a state of facing each other via the contact medium12. As a fixing method, in addition to the method of pressing in the direction along the X-Y plane using the pressing structure14as illustrated inFIGS.8and9, the method in which the container13is pressed against the second surface11B of the protective layer11so as to rotate from the inclined state as described with reference toFIGS.16and17can be exemplified.

(Step S104: Liquid Sample Supply Process) The operator or the mechanism controlled by the computer53illustrated inFIG.19supplies the liquid sample201illustrated inFIG.1to the container13. The liquid sample201is suppled, for example, from the inlet131of the container13and filled into the container13. In this process, for example, the liquid sample201is continuously supplied to maintain a fluid state in the container13. Alternatively, as a modification example, in this process, the supply is temporarily stopped after the container13is filled with a required amount (preset filling amount) of the liquid sample201. As a modification example of this process, for example, the operator may manually supply the liquid sample201to the container13with a pipette or the like. Alternatively, the mechanism controlled by the computer53may supply the liquid sample201via a liquid feeding device such as a pump.

(Step S105: Ultrasonic Oscillation Process) The computer53illustrated inFIG.19drives the oscillator50illustrated inFIG.18to cause the ultrasonic transducer10to oscillate ultrasonic waves. Ultrasonic waves are transmitted to the liquid sample201in the container13through the adhesive15, the protective layer11, the contact medium12, and the container13illustrated inFIG.1.

(Step S106: Optical Analysis Process) The computer53illustrated inFIG.19outputs the light beam55from the light source51, and the light receiving portion52measures the received light ray. As an example of the measurement method, for example, the computer53sends a control signal to the spectroscopic analysis portion54, acquires a spectrum via the light receiving portion52, and qualitatively and quantitatively analyzes the type of component and the concentration of the component from the spectrum. The operation of the spectroscopic analysis portion54may be performed by an operator. During or before or after the optical analysis, a process of changing the flow rate of the liquid sample201in the container13or stopping the flow may be performed. The spectroscopic analysis portion54of the computer53performs optical analysis (for example, spectroscopic analysis described with reference toFIGS.18and19) based on a measurement result. After the ultrasonic waves are oscillated in step S105, a time is required for the migration of suspended matter and the like until the aggregation layer illustrated inFIG.18is formed. Therefore, rather than performing step S106immediately after starting step S105, it is preferable to provide a waiting time for waiting for the formation of the aggregation layer56before starting step S106. The timing of starting step S106can be exemplified by, for example, a method of starting when the intensity of the transmitted light ray reaching the light receiving portion52after passing through the container13from the light source51illustrated inFIG.19is maximized, or a method of starting when a rate of change of the intensity of the transmitted light ray becomes equal to or less than a predetermined threshold and can be regarded as almost constant.

(Step S107: Ultrasonic Stop Process) The computer53illustrated inFIG.19stops the oscillator50illustrated inFIG.18to stop the output of ultrasonic waves.

(Step S108: Liquid Sample Replacement Process) The operator or the mechanism controlled by the computer53illustrated inFIG.19discharges the liquid sample201for which the analysis has been completed to the outside from the outlet132of the container13illustrated inFIG.1, for example, and supplies a new liquid sample201into the container13as necessary. When the container13is used repeatedly, multiple cycles of optical analysis can be executed by repeating steps S104to S108. On the other hand, when the container13is disposable (single use), the process proceeds to the next step S109.

(Step S109: Container Removal Process) The operator or the mechanism controlled by the computer53illustrated inFIG.19removes from the ultrasonic transducer holder101the container13filled with the liquid sample201for which the analysis has been completed. Unlike the adhesive15, the contact medium12illustrated inFIG.1does not adhesively fix the container13and the protective layer11together. Therefore, in this process, the container13can be easily removed by loosening the pressing force of the pressing structure14.

(Step S109: Contact Medium Removal Process) The operator or the mechanism controlled by the computer53illustrated inFIG.19removes the contact medium12(seeFIG.1) from the ultrasonic transducer holder101. Examples of a removal method include a method of sucking the contact medium12with a suction nozzle (not illustrated), a method of scraping it with a cotton swab or cloth, or a method of sucking it with a sponge. From the viewpoint of more reliable removal, a method of spraying a cleaning liquid or a rinse liquid or using a cloth impregnated with these liquids can also be adopted. Particularly when using a cleaning liquid or a rinse liquid, it is preferable to dry the periphery of the application region by blowing gas around the application region after cleaning.

When reusing the container13, the contact medium12adhering to the container13must also be removed. When the container13is single-use, then the process returns to step S101, and steps S101to S110are repeated using a new container13. When performing repeated analysis, this process can be omitted when the container13is reused with the contact medium12left. However, from the viewpoint of suppressing entrainment of air bubbles in the contact medium12or protrusion of the contact medium from the application region12R (seeFIG.6), it is preferable to remove the used contact medium12by performing this process. In the last cycle of repeated analyses, completion of this process terminates the analytical work.

Analysis System Using Computer

Next, a preferred aspect of processing executed by the computer when the analysis flow illustrated inFIG.20is executed using the computer illustrated inFIG.19will be described.FIG.21is an explanatory view illustrating an example of a process flow by a computer in an analysis method using the analysis system illustrated inFIGS.18and19.FIG.22is an explanatory view illustrating an example of a process flow followingFIG.21.FIG.21illustrates an example in which step S101illustrated inFIG.20is executed after steps S102and S104. The flows illustrated inFIGS.21and22have processes in common with that of the flow described with reference toFIG.20. As for these processes, the processes different from the description with reference toFIG.20will be described, and description of common parts will be omitted. In the analysis processes illustrated inFIGS.21and22, the computer53illustrated inFIG.9performs the following processes.

(Step S103: Container Fixing Process) Step S103illustrated inFIG.21includes a process (step S103A) of pressing the container13illustrated inFIG.19with the pressing structure14, and a process (step S103B) of detecting a force with which the container13is pressed after step S103A. In step S103A, the mechanism controlled by the computer53drives the pressing structure14to press the container13. In step S103B, the computer53detects the pressing force by the pressing structure14. The computer53is electrically connected to a pressure sensor (not illustrated) connected to the pressing structure14, the container13, or the ultrasonic transducer holder101, for example. The computer53acquires pressing force data from the pressure sensor (not illustrated). The computer53displays a message on a display device57connected to the computer53as a warning display process when the detected pressing force is lower or higher than a set pressing force range. When the pressure value is out of the set range, the computer53outputs a message, for example, “Check for pressing state of container”.

(Step S101: Contact Medium Application Process) Step S101illustrated inFIG.21includes a process (step S101A) of supplying the contact medium12(seeFIGS.13and14) to the application region12R (seeFIGS.12to15) of the protective layer11, a process (step S101B) of detecting a liquid feeding pressure when the contact medium is supplied, and a process (step S101C) of detecting the presence or absence of the contact medium discharged from the second pore32B (seeFIGS.12to14).

In step S101A, the contact medium12is injected from the injector (syringe)33to the first pore32A through the pipe35, as illustrated inFIGS.13and14, for example.

In step S101B, the pressure sensor34connected between the injector33and the first pore32A measures the injection pressure (in other words, liquid pressure) of the contact medium12. The pressure sensor34may be of a type that directly measures the injection pressure of the injector33. The computer53(seeFIG.19) is electrically connected to the pressure sensor34and acquires pressure value data from the pressure sensor34. When the pressure value is lower than a preset range (lower limit threshold), the computer53determines that there is an abnormality, and displays a message meaning, for example, “Check for a gap between container and transducer holder and leakage of contact medium” on the display device57(seeFIG.19). Further, when the pressure value is higher than a set range (upper limit threshold), the computer53determines that there is an abnormality, and displays a message meaning, for example, “Check for pore clogging”, on the display device57. Also, when the pressure value is within the set range, the computer53determines that it is normal, and either outputs no message or displays a message meaning “there is no abnormality in supply pressure of contact medium” on the display device57(seeFIG.19). The process in step S101B can be expressed as follows. That is, the computer53specifies the application or filling state of the contact medium12(seeFIG.1), and outputs a message indicating the abnormality when the specified state indicates an abnormality. This message also indicates that the contact medium12is not sufficiently filled or applied. This process allows the operator to easily recognize the occurrence of an abnormality, thereby reducing the loss of working in an abnormal state.

In step S101C, the computer53detects the presence or absence of the contact medium ejected from the second pore32B (seeFIGS.12to14). As for the detection method, for example, a sensor (not illustrated) capable of detecting a change in an outlet (an end portion exposed on the surface of the protective layer11) of the second pore32B is installed. This sensor is, for example, a sensor that utilizes electrodes that detect light rays, ultrasonic waves, or electrical changes. When the contact medium12is not detected, the contact medium is not yet sufficiently filled, so the computer53outputs a control signal to continue step S101A. On the other hand, when the contact medium12is detected, the computer53determines that the contact medium12is sufficiently filled, and proceeds to the next step S104.

The flows illustrated inFIGS.21and22are different from the flow described with reference toFIG.20in that step S201is provided between step S104and step S105and step S202is provided between step S105and step S106. Steps S201and S202will be described in order below.

(Step S201: First Data Acquisition Process) The computer53acquires first data regarding the liquid sample201in the container13after step S104illustrated inFIG.21and before step S105illustrated inFIG.22. The first data is intensity or spectrum data of transmitted light rays of the liquid sample201in the container13in a state in which ultrasonic waves are not oscillated.

(Step S202: Process for determining Application State of Contact Medium) The computer53determines the application state of the contact medium12(seeFIGS.13and14) after step S201illustrated inFIG.21and step S105illustrated inFIG.22. Step S202includes the following processes.

(Step S202A: Second Data Acquisition Process) The computer53acquires second data regarding the liquid sample201in the container13after step S201illustrated inFIG.21and step S105illustrated inFIG.22. The second data is transmitted light intensity or spectrum data of the liquid sample201in the container13after ultrasonic waves are oscillated.

(Step S202B: Data Comparison Process) The computer53compares the first data and second data, and determines whether the contact medium12is applied in a good or bad state based on the first data and the second data. When any of the following conditions are met, the computer53determines that there is an abnormality, and displays a message on the display device57connected to the computer53as warning display processing. The above-mentioned conditions are a case where the transmitted light intensity of the second data is lower than a set range, a case where the spectrum baseline of the second data is higher than a set range, a case where regarding the transmitted light intensity, a difference between the second data and the first data is smaller than a lower threshold, and a case where regarding the spectrum baseline height, a difference between the second data and the first data is smaller than a lower threshold. When any of these conditions is met, the application or filling of the contact medium12is insufficient and the ultrasonic waves are not sufficiently transmitted into the container13, and thus the liquid sample201in the container13may not form the aggregation layer56(seeFIG.18) due to the acoustic radiation force of ultrasonic waves, and may not form a transparent portion. Therefore, in this case, the computer53displays, for example, a message meaning “check the contact medium” on the display device57as warning processing. On the other hand, when none of the above-described conditions is met, the computer determines that the contact medium12is in a normal state of application, and proceeds to the next step S106.

Steps S201and S202described above correspond to one aspect of the expression “The computer53specifies the application or filling state of the contact medium12(seeFIG.1), and outputs a message indicating the abnormality when the specified state indicates an abnormality.” described above.

Thereafter, each process after step S106is the same as the flow described with reference toFIG.20, so redundant description will be omitted. However, when the analysis is repeated from step S106to step S108illustrated inFIG.22, step S202can be omitted in the second and subsequent cycles. Methods for specifying various states such as the pressed state of the container13and the application state of the contact medium12may be methods other than those exemplified above. For example, instead of measuring the pressing force of the pressing structure14described in step S103B, the position and displacement of the container13may be measured. Also, in step S101B, instead of detecting the liquid feeding pressure when injecting the contact medium12, the time from the start of injection until the contact medium12comes out of the second pore32B may be measured.

Although several embodiments including modification examples are described above, the present invention is not limited to the above-described examples and representative modification examples, and various modification examples can be applied without departing from the gist of the invention. For example, substances put in the container13can include various substances such as liquid chemicals, medicines, foods (including beverages), and environmental samples. In addition to suspensions containing solid fine particles, the invention can also be applied to emulsions in which oil droplets are dispersed, liquids in which air bubbles are dispersed, and the like. Furthermore, the shape and size of the container13, the ultrasonic transducer10, the protective layer11, and the ultrasonic transducer holder101can also be changed. Moreover, although various modification examples are described above, each modification example can be appropriately combined and applied. In addition, it is possible to add, delete, or replace a part of other configurations with respect to a part of the configuration of each embodiment.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

The present invention is applicable to an analysis system.

REFERENCE SIGNS LIST

10: ultrasonic transducer10A: attachment surface11: protective layer11A: first surface11B: second surface11C: third surface (side surface)11D: fourth surface (side surface)11E: fifth surface (upper surface)11F: sixth surface (lower surface)11G: bottom surface11H: recess portion (groove, hole)11R1,11R3: fixing region11R2: peripheral region11T1,11T2: thickness12: contact medium12R: application region13: container13A: side surface13B: pressed surface14: pressing structure (pressing member)15: adhesive20: application region mark20: application region21: guide member21A: recess portion21B: convex portion31: recess32: pore32A: first pore32B: second pore33: injector (syringe)34: pressure sensor35: pipe41: roller42: nozzle50: oscillator51: light source52: light receiving portion53: computer54: spectroscopic analysis portion55: light beam56: aggregation layer57: display device101,101A,101B,101C,101D: ultrasonic transducer holder131: inlet132: outlet201: liquid sample300: analysis systemS101to S110, S101A, S101B, S101C, S103A, S103B, S201, S202, S202A, S202B: step