JP2022103798A - Reaction vessel and automatic analyzer - Google Patents

Abstract

To improve measurement efficiency.SOLUTION: The reaction vessel according to the present embodiment is used for measurement by an automatic analyzer and for accommodating a mixed solution of a sample and a reagent to be measured, and includes a container body and a suction port. The suction port is provided in the container body, and the sample sucked is allowed to flow into the inside of the container body.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3D

Description

The embodiments disclosed herein and in the drawings relate to reaction vessels and automated analyzers.

For example, the automated analyzer causes the sample dispensing probe to suck the sample in the sample container and discharge the sample into the reaction container. Then, the automatic analyzer dispenses the reagent into the reaction vessel into which the sample is dispensed, and measures the mixed solution of the sample and the reagent. In addition, the automatic analyzer cleans the sample dispensing probe at the end of sample dispensing in the washing tank.

However, in the method in which the sample dispensing probe sucks the sample and discharges it into the reaction vessel, the sample may not be sufficiently removed by washing from the sample dispensing probe, carryover may occur, and correct measurement results may not be obtained. be.

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 62-228952 Japanese Patent No. 5287579 Japanese Patent No. 6058277

One of the problems to be solved by the embodiments disclosed in the present specification and the drawings is to improve the measurement efficiency. However, the problems solved by the embodiments disclosed in the present specification and the drawings are not limited to the above problems. The problem corresponding to each effect by each configuration shown in the embodiment described later can be positioned as another problem.

The reaction vessel according to the present embodiment is used for measurement of an automatic analyzer, is a reaction vessel for accommodating a mixed solution of a sample and a reagent to be measured, and includes a container body and a suction port. The suction port is provided in the container body, and the sucked sample is allowed to flow into the inside of the container body.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of an automated analyzer to which the reaction vessel according to the first embodiment is applied. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the analyzer of the automatic analyzer to which the reaction vessel according to the first embodiment is applied. FIG. 3A is a cross-sectional view showing a first configuration example of the reaction vessel and the suction device according to the first embodiment, and is a diagram for explaining the suction operation. FIG. 3B is a cross-sectional view showing a first configuration example of the reaction vessel and the suction device according to the first embodiment, and is a diagram for explaining the suction operation. FIG. 3C is a cross-sectional view showing a first configuration example of the reaction vessel and the suction device according to the first embodiment, and is a diagram for explaining the suction operation. FIG. 3D is a cross-sectional view showing a first configuration example of the reaction vessel and the suction device according to the first embodiment, and is a diagram for explaining the suction operation. FIG. 3E is a cross-sectional view showing a first configuration example of the reaction vessel and the suction device according to the first embodiment, and is a diagram for explaining the suction operation. FIG. 3F is a cross-sectional view showing a first configuration example of the reaction vessel and the suction device according to the first embodiment, and is a diagram for explaining the suction operation. FIG. 4A is a cross-sectional view showing a second configuration example of the reaction vessel according to the first embodiment. FIG. 4B is a cross-sectional view showing a second configuration example of the suction device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 4C is a connection diagram of a second configuration example of the reaction vessel and the suction device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 5A is a diagram for explaining the suction operation in the second configuration example of the reaction vessel and the suction device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 5B is a diagram for explaining the suction operation in the second configuration example of the reaction vessel and the suction device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 5C is a diagram for explaining the suction operation in the second configuration example of the reaction vessel and the suction device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 5D is a diagram for explaining the suction operation in the second configuration example of the reaction vessel and the suction device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 5E is a diagram for explaining the suction operation in the second configuration example of the reaction vessel and the suction device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 5F is a diagram for explaining the suction operation in the second configuration example of the reaction vessel and the suction device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 5G is a diagram for explaining the suction operation in the second configuration example of the reaction vessel and the suction device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a specific example of the backflow prevention unit of the reaction vessel according to the first embodiment. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a specific example of the backflow prevention unit of the reaction vessel according to the first embodiment. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a specific example of the backflow prevention unit of the reaction vessel according to the first embodiment. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a specific example of the backflow prevention unit of the reaction vessel according to the first embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a specific example of the backflow prevention unit of the reaction vessel according to the first embodiment. FIG. 11A is a diagram showing a procedure for processing an automated analyzer to which the reaction vessel according to the first embodiment is applied. FIG. 11B is a diagram showing a procedure for processing an automated analyzer to which the reaction vessel according to the first embodiment is applied. FIG. 11C is a diagram showing a procedure for processing an automated analyzer to which the reaction vessel according to the first embodiment is applied. FIG. 11D is a diagram showing a procedure for processing an automated analyzer to which the reaction vessel according to the first embodiment is applied. FIG. 11E is a diagram showing a procedure for processing an automated analyzer to which the reaction vessel according to the first embodiment is applied. FIG. 11F is a diagram showing a procedure for processing an automated analyzer to which the reaction vessel according to the first embodiment is applied. FIG. 12A is a cross-sectional view showing a first configuration example of the reaction vessel according to the second embodiment, and is a diagram for explaining a suction operation. FIG. 12B is a cross-sectional view showing a first configuration example of the reaction vessel according to the second embodiment, and is a diagram for explaining a suction operation. FIG. 12C is a cross-sectional view showing a first configuration example of the reaction vessel according to the second embodiment, and is a diagram for explaining a suction operation. FIG. 13A is a cross-sectional view showing a second configuration example of the reaction vessel according to the second embodiment, and is a diagram for explaining a suction operation. FIG. 13B is a cross-sectional view showing a second configuration example of the reaction vessel according to the second embodiment, and is a diagram for explaining a suction operation. FIG. 13C is a cross-sectional view showing a second configuration example of the reaction vessel according to the second embodiment, and is a diagram for explaining a suction operation. FIG. 14A is a cross-sectional view showing a third configuration example of the reaction vessel according to the second embodiment, and is a diagram for explaining a suction operation. FIG. 14B is a cross-sectional view showing a third configuration example of the reaction vessel according to the second embodiment, and is a diagram for explaining a suction operation. FIG. 14C is a cross-sectional view showing a third configuration example of the reaction vessel according to the second embodiment, and is a diagram for explaining a suction operation. FIG. 14D is a cross-sectional view showing a third configuration example of the reaction vessel according to the second embodiment, and is a diagram for explaining a suction operation. FIG. 14E is a cross-sectional view showing a third configuration example of the reaction vessel according to the second embodiment, and is a diagram for explaining a suction operation. FIG. 15A is a cross-sectional view showing a fourth configuration example of the reaction vessel according to the second embodiment, and is a diagram for explaining a suction operation. FIG. 15B is a cross-sectional view showing a fourth configuration example of the reaction vessel according to the second embodiment, and is a diagram for explaining a suction operation. FIG. 15C is a cross-sectional view showing a fourth configuration example of the reaction vessel according to the second embodiment, and is a diagram for explaining a suction operation. FIG. 15D is a cross-sectional view showing a fourth configuration example of the reaction vessel according to the second embodiment, and is a diagram for explaining a suction operation. FIG. 15E is a cross-sectional view showing a fourth configuration example of the reaction vessel according to the second embodiment, and is a diagram for explaining a suction operation. FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the analyzer of the automatic analyzer to which the reaction vessel according to the second embodiment is applied. FIG. 17A is a diagram showing a procedure for processing an automated analyzer to which the reaction vessel according to the second embodiment is applied. FIG. 17B is a diagram showing a procedure for processing an automated analyzer to which the reaction vessel according to the second embodiment is applied. FIG. 17C is a diagram showing a procedure for processing an automated analyzer to which the reaction vessel according to the second embodiment is applied. FIG. 17D is a diagram showing a procedure for processing an automated analyzer to which the reaction vessel according to the second embodiment is applied. FIG. 17E is a diagram showing a procedure for processing an automated analyzer to which the reaction vessel according to the second embodiment is applied. FIG. 17F is a diagram showing a procedure for processing an automated analyzer to which the reaction vessel according to the second embodiment is applied.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the reaction vessel and the automated analyzer will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. The embodiment is not limited to the following embodiments. Further, in principle, the contents described in one embodiment are similarly applied to other embodiments.

(First Embodiment)
FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of an automated analyzer 100 to which the reaction vessel according to the first embodiment is applied. The automatic analyzer 100 shown in FIG. 1 includes an analyzer 70, a drive device 80, and a processing device 90.

The analyzer 70 measures a standard sample of each test item or a mixed solution of a test sample (biological sample such as blood or urine) collected from the subject and a reagent used for analysis of each test item, and measures the standard. Generate data and test data. The analyzer 70 includes a plurality of units for dispensing samples, dispensing reagents, and the like, and the drive device 80 drives each unit of the analyzer 70. The processing device 90 controls the drive device 80 to operate each unit of the analyzer 70.

The processing device 90 includes an input device 50, an output device 40, a processing circuit 30, and a storage circuit 60.

The input device 50 includes an input device such as a keyboard, a mouse, a button, and a touch key panel, and is used for input for setting analysis parameters of each test item, test identification information of a test sample, and test items. Input etc.

The output device 40 includes a printer and a display. The printer prints the data generated by the processing circuit 30. The display is a monitor such as a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) or a liquid crystal panel, and displays the data generated by the processing circuit 30.

The storage circuit 60 is, for example, a semiconductor memory element such as a RAM (Random Access Memory) or a flash memory (Flash Memory), or a storage device such as a hard disk or an optical disk.

The processing circuit 30 controls the entire system. For example, the processing circuit 30 executes the data processing function 31 and the control function 32 as shown in FIG. The control function 32 controls the drive device 80 to operate each unit of the analyzer 70. The data processing function 31 processes the standard data and the test data generated by the analyzer 70 to generate the calibration data and the analysis data of each inspection item.

For example, the standard data generated by the analyzer 70 represents data (calibration curve or standard curve) for determining the amount or concentration of a substance, and the test data generated by the analyzer 70 is a test sample. Represents the data of the measurement result. Further, the calibration data output from the processing circuit 30 represents data representing measurement results such as the amount and concentration of the substance derived from the test data and the standard data, and the analysis data output from the processing circuit 30 is positive. Or, it represents data representing a negative judgment result. That is, the calibration data is data for deriving analytical data representing a positive or negative determination result.

Here, for example, each processing function executed by a component of the processing circuit 30 is recorded in the storage circuit 60 in the form of a program that can be executed by a computer. The processing circuit 30 is a processor that realizes a function corresponding to each program by reading each program from the storage circuit 60 and executing the program. In other words, the processing circuit 30 in the state where each program is read out has each function shown in the processing circuit 30 of FIG.

In FIG. 1, it is assumed that each processing function described below is realized by a single processing circuit 30, but each processor constitutes a processing circuit by combining a plurality of independent processors. The function may be realized by executing the program.

The term "processor" used in the above description includes, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC)), and a programmable logic device (for example, simple). It means a circuit such as a programmable logic device (Simple Programmable Logic Device: SPLD), a complex programmable logic device (CPLD), and a field programmable gate array (FPGA). When the processor is, for example, a CPU, the processor realizes the function by reading and executing the program stored in the storage circuit 60. On the other hand, when the processor is, for example, an ASIC, the program is directly incorporated in the circuit of the processor instead of storing the program in the storage circuit 60. It should be noted that each processor of the present embodiment is not limited to the case where each processor is configured as a single circuit, and a plurality of independent circuits may be combined to form one processor to realize its function. good. Further, a plurality of components in FIG. 1 may be integrated into one processor to realize the function.

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the analyzer 70 of the automatic analyzer 100 to which the reaction vessel 3 according to the first embodiment is applied.

The analyzer 70 includes a sample rack 5 that holds a plurality of sample containers 11. The sample container 11 stores samples such as standard samples and test samples for each inspection item. In the example shown in FIG. 2, a plurality of sample racks 5 for accommodating three sample containers 11 are arranged. Here, the number of sample containers 11 housed in the sample rack 5 is not limited to three.

The analyzer 70 further includes a plurality of reaction vessels 3 arranged on the circumference and a reaction disk 4 for rotatably holding each of the plurality of reaction vessels 3. The reaction vessel 3 is a disposable reaction vessel, for example, the mixed solution in the reaction vessel 3 is measured and then discarded.

The analyzer 70 further includes a transport device 110. The transfer device 110 includes a supply unit 111 and a transfer unit 112. The supply unit 111 has a storage unit for storing a plurality of charged reaction vessels 3 and a drive unit for supplying the reaction vessel 3 in the storage unit to the transfer unit 112. The transfer device 110 moves the reaction vessel 3 supplied from the supply unit 111 by the transfer unit 112. The transfer unit 112 moves the reaction vessel 3 to a position where the sample arm 10 described later can access the reaction vessel 3. For example, the transfer unit 112 has two rails. The two rails are inclined downward from the start end on the storage unit side toward the end point. The reaction vessel 3 moves toward the end along the rail due to its own weight.

The analyzer 70 further includes a sample arm 10. The sample arm 10 moves the reaction vessel 3 moved by the transfer unit 112 to the sample rack 5. For example, the sample arm 10 accesses the reaction vessel 3 that has moved to the end of the rail and moves it to the sample rack 5. After that, the sample in the sample container 11 held in the sample rack 5 is sucked into the reaction container 3. For example, among the samples in the sample container 11 held in the sample rack 5, the amount of the sample set as the analysis parameter of the inspection item is sucked into the reaction container 3 by the suction device described later. The sample arm 10 moves the reaction vessel 3 containing the sample to the reaction disk 4.

The analyzer 70 further includes a plurality of reagent containers 6, a reagent storage 1 for storing each of the plurality of reagent containers 6, a plurality of reagent containers 7, and a reagent storage 2 for storing each of the plurality of reagent containers 7. It is equipped with. Reagent containers 6 and 7 contain reagents containing components that react with the components of each test item contained in the sample. For example, the reagent container 6 contains a 1-reagent system reagent or a 2-reagent system 1st reagent, and the reagent container 7 contains a second reagent different from the reagent in the 2-reagent system reagent container 6 of each test item. Contain. The reagent storage 1 includes a reagent rack 1a, which is a turntable that rotatably holds the reagent container 6 for each test item. The reagent storage 2 includes a reagent rack 2a, which is a turntable that rotatably holds the reagent container 7 for each inspection item.

The analyzer 70 further cleans the reagent dispensing probe 14, the reagent dispensing arm 8, the reagent dispensing pump 14a, the reagent detector 14b, the washing tank 14c, the stirrer 17, and the stirring arm 18. It is equipped with a tank 17a. The reagent dispensing probe 14 dispenses the reagent in the reagent container 6. Specifically, the reagent dispensing probe 14 sucks the reagent in the reagent container 6 of each test item held in the reagent rack 1a, and samples the amount of the reagent set as the analysis parameter of the test item. Is discharged into the reaction vessel 3 containing the above. The reagent dispensing arm 8 supports the reagent dispensing probe 14 so as to be rotatable and vertically movable. The reagent dispensing pump 14a causes the reagent dispensing probe 14 to suck and discharge the reagent. As a liquid level detection function, the reagent detector 14b is close to or in contact with the liquid level of the reagent in the reagent container 6 held in the reagent rack 1a with the tip of the reagent dispensing probe 14 descending from above the liquid level. At that time, it is determined that the reagent in the reagent container 6 has been detected. Specifically, the reagent detector 14b is electrically connected to the reagent dispensing probe 14, and the change in capacitance when the tip of the reagent dispensing probe 14 is in close proximity to or in contact with the reagent in the reagent container 6. Detects the liquid level of the reagent in the reagent container 6. When the liquid level of the reagent in the reagent container 6 is detected, the reagent dispensing pump unit 14a causes the reagent dispensing probe 14 to suck and discharge the reagent. The washing tank 14c cleans the reagent dispensing probe 14 for each reagent dispensing. The stirrer 17 stirs the mixture of the sample and the reagent in the reaction vessel 3. The stirring arm 18 supports the stirrer 17 so as to be rotatable and vertically movable. The washing tank 17a cleans the stirrer 17 every time the mixed solution is stirred.

The analyzer 70 further cleans the reagent dispensing probe 15, the reagent dispensing arm 9, the reagent dispensing pump 15a, the reagent detector 15b, the washing tank 15c, the stirrer 19, and the stirring arm 20. It is equipped with a tank 19a. The reagent dispensing probe 15 dispenses the reagent in the reagent container 7. Here, the functions of the reagent dispensing probe 15, the reagent dispensing arm 9, the reagent dispensing pump 15a, the reagent detector 15b, the washing tank 15c, the stirrer 19, the stirring arm 20, and the washing tank 19a are the functions of reagent dispensing, respectively. Since the functions are the same as those of the probe 14, the reagent dispensing arm 8, the reagent dispensing pump 14a, the reagent detector 14b, the washing tank 14c, the stirrer 17, the stirring arm 18, and the washing tank 17a, the description thereof will be omitted.

The analyzer 70 further includes a measuring unit 13 and a disposal unit 120. The measuring unit 13 measures the mixed solution by irradiating the reaction vessel 3 containing the stirred mixed solution with light. Specifically, the measuring unit 13 irradiates the reaction vessel 3 at the rotating measurement position with light, and detects the light transmitted through the mixed solution of the sample and the reagent in the reaction vessel 3 by this irradiation. Then, the measurement unit 13 processes the detected signal to generate standard data or test data represented by a digital signal and outputs the standard data or test data to the processing circuit 30 of the processing device 90. The reaction vessel 3 is a disposable reaction vessel, and the mixed solution in the reaction vessel 3 is measured and then discarded. The disposal unit 120 is a container for disposing of the reaction vessel 3 for which the measurement by the measurement unit 13 has been completed. For example, the sample arm 10 discards the reaction vessel 3 by moving the reaction vessel 3 for which the measurement has been completed to the disposal unit 120.

The drive device 80 drives each unit of the analyzer 70.

The drive device 80 includes a mechanism for driving the sample rack 5 of the analyzer 70, and moves each sample container 11. Further, the driving device 80 includes a mechanism for driving the reagent rack 1a of the reagent storage 1, and rotates each reagent container 6. Further, the driving device 80 includes a mechanism for driving the reagent rack 2a of the reagent storage 2, and rotates each reagent container 7. Further, the drive device 80 includes a mechanism for driving the reaction disk 4, and rotates each reaction container 3.

Further, the drive device 80 includes a mechanism for rotating and moving the sample arm 10 up and down, and by driving the sample arm 10, the reaction vessel 3 is moved from the transfer unit 112 to the sample rack 5 holding the sample vessel 11. Let me. Further, the driving device 80 moves the reaction vessel 3 containing the sample from the sample rack 5 to the reaction disk 4 by driving the sample arm 10. Further, the drive device 80 drives the sample arm 10 to move the reaction vessel 3 for which the measurement has been completed from the reaction disk 4 to the disposal unit 120.

Further, the driving device 80 includes a mechanism for rotating and moving the reagent dispensing arms 8 and 9 up and down, and moves the reagent dispensing probes 14 and 15 between the reagent containers 6 and 7 and the reaction vessel 3, respectively. Further, the driving device 80 includes a mechanism for driving the reagent dispensing pumps 14a and 15a, and causes the reagent dispensing probes 14 and 15 to dispense the reagent. That is, the reagents 14 and 15 of the reagent dispensing probes 14 and 15 suck the reagents of the reagent containers 6 and 7, and the reagents are discharged to the reaction vessel 3. Further, the driving device 80 includes a mechanism for driving the stirring arms 18 and 20, and moves the stirring bars 17 and 19 into the reaction vessel 3. The drive device 80 is provided with a mechanism for driving the stirrers 17 and 19, and causes the sample and the reagent in the reaction vessel 3 to be agitated.

The control function 32 of the processing device 90 controls the drive device 80 to operate each unit of the analyzer 70.

In an automatic analyzer, generally, a sample dispensing probe sucks a sample and discharges it into a reaction vessel, and the sample dispensing probe is washed after each sample dispensing is completed. However, in the method in which the sample dispensing probe sucks the sample and discharges it into the reaction vessel, when the sample dispensing probe into which the sample is dispensed is washed, the sample is not sufficiently removed by washing and carryover occurs. May be done. Due to the occurrence of carryover, for example, a phenomenon occurs in which the measurement result becomes an abnormally high value in the next measurement.

Therefore, the reaction vessel 3 used in the automatic analyzer 100 of the present embodiment is configured as follows so that the measurement efficiency can be improved. The reaction vessel 3 according to the present embodiment is used for measurement of the automatic analyzer 100, is a reaction vessel that houses a mixed solution of a sample and a reagent to be measured, and includes a container body and a suction port. The suction port is provided in the container body, and the sucked sample flows into the inside of the container body.

Hereinafter, a configuration example of the reaction vessel 3 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 3 to 5.

3A to 3F are cross-sectional views showing a first configuration example of the reaction vessel 3 and the suction device 330 according to the first embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 3A, the reaction vessel 3 has a container body 300 having an opening 305 formed on the upper surface thereof and a flange provided on the opening 305 side of the container body 300, and the outer diameter of the flange is the container body. It is larger than the outer diameter of 300. For example, in order to align the reaction vessels 3 supplied from the supply unit 111 in FIG. 2 by the rails of the transfer unit 112, the distance between the rails is longer than the outer diameter of the container body 300 and larger than the outer diameter of the flange. Is also short.

The container body 300 is provided with a suction port 310 for allowing the sucked sample 130 to flow into the inside of the container body 300. For example, the suction port 310 is provided on the bottom surface of the container body 300. The suction port 310 is provided with a backflow prevention unit 320 that prevents backflow from the inside to the outside of the container body 300. A specific example of the backflow prevention unit 320 will be described later.

As shown in FIG. 3A, the sample 130 housed in the sample container 11 is sucked by the container body 300 and the removable suction device 330. That is, the sample 130 flows into the inside of the container body 300 from the suction port 310 provided on the bottom surface of the container body 300 by the suction of the suction device 330. Here, the reagent that reacts with the sample 130 is dispensed from the opening 305 of the container body 300. The opening 305 of the container body 300 is formed at an end opposite to the bottom surface of the container body 300.

The suction device 330 has a connection portion 331 detachably formed from the reaction vessel 3 and a suction pump portion 332 for sucking the sample 130 from the suction port 310 in the container main body 300. The outer diameter of the connection portion 331 is substantially the same as the inner diameter of the container body 300, and the connection portion 331 reacts by inserting the tip end side of the connection portion 331 into the inside of the container body 300 through the opening 305 of the container body 300. It is connected to the container 3. Here, the suction device 330 is, for example, a mechanism possessed by the automatic analyzer 100, and is attached to the tip of the sample arm 10. Further, the suction pump unit 332 is, for example, a metal cylinder, and is connected to a mechanism (not shown) for moving the cylinder up and down at the tip of the sample arm 10. Although a metal cylinder is given as an example of operating the suction pump unit 332 up and down, for example, a medium such as water may be used to operate the suction pump unit 332 up and down.

Next, the suction operation in the first configuration example of the reaction vessel 3 and the suction device 330 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 3A to 3F. The suction operation is performed by the drive device 80 driving the sample arm 10, the suction pump unit 332 of the suction device 330, and the like in response to the control signal output from the control function 32 of the processing device 90. Here, the details of the processing of the automatic analyzer 100 including the suction operation will be described later.

First, in FIGS. 3A and 3B, the drive device 80 moves the connection portion 331 of the suction device 330 attached to the tip of the sample arm 10 to the end of the rail of the transfer portion 112 of the container body 300 of the reaction vessel 3. Connect to opening 305. Next, in FIG. 3C, the drive device 80 lowers the suction device 330 at the tip of the sample arm 10, and the suction port 310 of the reaction vessel 3 connected to the suction device 330 is held in the sample rack 5. It is brought into contact with the sample 130 in the container 11. Next, in FIG. 3D, the drive device 80 moves the suction pump unit 332 of the suction device 330 upward, so that the sample in the sample container 11 held in the sample rack 5 by suction by the suction pump unit 332 is used. 130 is allowed to flow into the inside of the container body 300 of the reaction vessel 3. Next, in FIG. 3E, the drive device 80 raises the reaction vessel 3 connected to the suction device 330 at the tip of the sample arm 10. After that, as shown in FIG. 3F, the drive device 80 separates the connection portion 331 of the suction device 330 from the container body 300 of the reaction vessel 3. Specifically, after the drive device 80 moves the reaction vessel 3 to the reaction disk 4, the connection portion 331 of the suction device 330 is detached from the container body 300 of the reaction vessel 3.

As described above, the suction device 330 is connected to the opening 305 of the container body 300 when the sample 130 is sucked, and after the connection with the container body 300, the reagent 130 is sucked and the reagent 130 is sucked from the suction port 310 to the container body. It flows into the inside of the 300, and after sucking the sample 130, it separates from the container main body 300.

4A and 4B are cross-sectional views showing a second configuration example of the reaction vessel 3 and the suction device 330 according to the first embodiment, respectively. Here, with respect to the second configuration example, changes in the first configuration example will be described.

As shown in FIG. 4A, in the second configuration example, the reaction vessel 3 does not have the flange in the first configuration example, for example, the container body 300 has a central portion from the opening 305 of the container body 300. It has a tapered structure that tapers toward the end. That is, the outer diameter of the container body 300 gradually increases from the central portion of the container body 300 toward the opening 305. For example, in order to align the reaction vessels 3 supplied from the supply unit 111 by the two rails of the transfer unit 112, the distance between the rails is longer than the outer diameter of the central portion of the container body 300 of the reaction vessel 3. It is shorter than the outer shape of the opening 305 of the container body 300. As a result, the container body 300 can be easily connected to the suction device 330 due to the tapered structure, and can be connected more firmly. The bottom surface of the container body 300 is provided with a suction port 310 for allowing the sucked sample 130 to flow into the container body 300.

As shown in FIG. 4B, in the suction device 330, the connecting portion 331 is formed so that the tip end side of the connecting portion 331 has a tapered structure. The suction device 330 further has a detaching portion 333 for detaching from the container body 300 after sucking the sample 130. For example, the detaching portion 333 is provided on the other end side of the connecting portion 331 on the opposite side to the tip end side connected to the container main body 300. The detaching portion 333 is a mechanism for detaching the connecting portion 331 of the suction device 330 from the container body 300 of the reaction vessel 3. The operation of the detaching portion 333 will be described later.

FIG. 4C is a connection diagram of a second configuration example of the reaction vessel 3 and the suction device 330 according to the first embodiment. When the connecting portion 331 of the suction device 330 is connected to the opening 305 of the container body 300 of the reaction vessel 3, the end portion of the suction device 330 on the opening 305 side of the detaching portion 333 forms the opening 305 of the container body 300. Facing the end.

As shown in FIG. 4C, the suction device 330 further includes a detection unit 334 that detects contact with the sample 130 in the sample container 11 held in the sample rack 5. For example, the detection unit 334 is formed so as to come into contact with the sample 130 in the sample container 11 before the suction port 310, and the detection unit 334 is the liquid level of the sample in the sample container 11 held in the sample rack 5. When the tip of the detection unit 334 comes into contact with the sample, it is determined that the sample in the sample container 11 has been detected. Specifically, the detection unit 334 detects the liquid level of the sample in the sample container 11 by the change in the capacitance when the tip end portion of the detection unit 334 comes into contact with the sample in the sample container 11. When the liquid level of the sample in the sample container 11 is detected, the sample 130 in the sample container 11 flows into the inside of the container main body 300 of the reaction container 3 by suction by the suction pump unit 332.

As described above, the suction device 330 detects the contact between the sample 130 and the suction port 310 by the detection unit 334, and when the detection unit 334 detects the contact, the suction device 330 starts sucking the sample 130.

Next, the suction operation in the second configuration example of the reaction vessel 3 and the suction device 330 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 5A to 5G.

First, in FIG. 5A, the drive device 80 connects the connection portion 331 of the suction device 330 at the tip of the sample arm 10 to the opening 305 of the container body 300 of the reaction vessel 3 that has moved to the end of the rail of the transfer portion 112. At this time, in FIG. 5B, the detaching portion 333 of the suction device 330 is located at the end portion forming the opening 305 of the container body 300. Next, in FIG. 5C, the drive device 80 lowers the suction device 330 at the tip of the sample arm 10, and the suction port 310 of the reaction vessel 3 connected to the suction device 330 is held in the sample rack 5. It is brought into contact with the sample 130 in the container 11. Next, in FIG. 5D, the drive device 80 moves the suction pump unit 332 of the suction device 330 upward, so that the sample in the sample container 11 held in the sample rack 5 by suction by the suction pump unit 332 is used. 130 is allowed to flow into the inside of the container body 300 of the reaction vessel 3.

Next, in FIG. 5E, the drive device 80 raises the reaction vessel 3 connected to the suction device 330 at the tip of the sample arm 10. At this time, in FIG. 5F, the drive device 80 moves the suction pump unit 332 of the suction device 330 further upward, so that the sample 130 remaining in the suction port 310 of the reaction vessel 3 due to the suction by the suction pump unit 332. Is flowed into the inside of the container body 300 of the reaction vessel 3. After that, in FIG. 5G, the drive device 80 moves the detaching portion 333 of the suction device 330 downward, and ascends in a state where the detaching portion 333 presses the end portion forming the opening 305 of the container body 300 of the reaction vessel 3. By doing so, the connection portion 331 of the suction device 330 is separated from the container body 300 of the reaction vessel 3. Specifically, after the drive device 80 moves the reaction vessel 3 to the reaction disk 4, the connection portion 331 of the suction device 330 is detached from the container body 300 of the reaction vessel 3.

Here, in the first and second configuration examples of the reaction vessel 3 and the suction device 330 according to the first embodiment, the connection portion 331 of the suction device 330 is connected to the opening 305 of the container body 300 of the reaction vessel 3. If the air pressure inside the container body 300 becomes high, suction may be performed by the suction pump unit 332 of the suction device 330. Further, the suction device 330 has a detection unit 334 for detecting the contact of the sample 130 in the sample container 11 in the second configuration example, but the suction device 330 is not limited to this, and is also detected in the first configuration example. It may have a part 334. Further, the suction device 330 does not have a detection unit 334, the liquid level of the sample 130 is measured in advance, and the suction device 330 at the tip of the sample arm 10 is used as the distance to the measured liquid level of the sample 130. , It may be lowered by a distance in consideration of the amount of the sample to be sucked (predetermined amount).

Here, a specific example of the backflow prevention unit 320 of the reaction vessel 3 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 6 to 10.

For example, as shown in FIG. 6, the backflow prevention unit 320 is a check valve 321 that prevents backflow from the container body 300 toward the suction port 310. As shown on the right side of FIG. 6, the check valve 321 is released when the air pressure inside the container body 300 decreases, and the sample 130 can be sucked into the inside of the container body 300. As shown on the left side of FIG. 6, when the air pressure inside and outside the container body 300 becomes equal, the check valve 321 closes to prevent the backflow of the sample 130.

Here, the check valve 321 is given as an example of stopping the backflow of the sample 130, but if the mechanism is to prevent the backflow of the sample 130 inside the container body 300, the check valve 320 has the shape of the check valve 321. Not limited to. For example, the backflow prevention unit 320 may be a flap gate type valve 322 as shown in FIG. 7. The flap gate type valve 322 normally closes the suction port 310 as shown on the left side of FIG. 7. Then, the flap gate type valve 322 releases the suction port 310 as shown on the right side of FIG. 7 when the sample 130 is sucked.

Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 8, the backflow prevention unit 320 is a flow path closing unit 323 that prevents backflow from the suction port 310 toward the container body 300. For example, the flow path closing portion 323 is a rotating body provided with a suction port 310 on the bottom surface of the container body 300, and a through hole 323A is formed in the flow path closing portion 323. In the normal state, the flow path closing portion 323 forms a flow path from the suction port 310 to the container body 300 via the through hole 323A as shown on the left side of FIG. 8, and after suctioning the sample 130, FIG. 8 As shown on the right side of, the flow path is closed. For example, in FIG. 8, the drive device 80 closes the flow path by rotating the flow path closing portion 323 half a turn by mechanical operation or magnetism after sucking the sample 130.

Here, the flow path closing portion 323 is mentioned as an example of stopping the backflow of the sample 130, but if the mechanism is to prevent the backflow of the sample 130 inside the container body 300, the backflow prevention section 320 is the flow path closing portion 323. It is not limited to the shape of. For example, the backflow prevention unit 320 may be a flow path closing unit 324 as shown in FIG. For example, the flow path closing portion 324 is a member provided so as to be slidable in the left-right direction in the bottom surface portion of the container body 300, and the flow path closing portion 324 is formed with a through hole 324A. In the normal state, the flow path closing portion 324 forms a flow path from the suction port 310 to the container body 300 via the through hole 324A as shown on the left side of FIG. 9, and after suctioning the sample 130, FIG. 9 As shown on the right side of, the flow path is closed. For example, in FIG. 9, the drive device 80 closes the flow path by sliding the flow path closing portion 324 to the left by a set amount after sucking the sample 130.

As an example of stopping the backflow of the sample 130, a valve and a mechanism for closing the flow path are mentioned, but if the mechanism is to prevent the backflow of the sample 130 inside the container body 300, the backflow prevention unit 320 is plugged. It may be 325. Further, in addition to the type in which the stopper 325 prevents the backflow of the sample 130, the type in which the suction port 310 is deformed by heat or pressure to prevent the flow path may be used.

11A to 11F are diagrams showing a procedure of processing of the automatic analyzer 100 to which the reaction vessel 3 according to the first embodiment is applied.

First, in FIG. 11A, the control function 32 of the processing device 90 outputs a first control signal for taking out the reaction vessel 3 from the transfer unit 112 to the drive device 80. In this case, in response to the first control signal, the drive device 80 drives the sample arm 10 to move the tip of the sample arm 10 to the end of the rail of the transfer unit 112. Then, the drive device 80 lowers the suction device 330 at the tip of the sample arm 10 to move the connection portion 331 of the suction device 330 to the end of the rail of the transfer section 112, and opens the container body 300 of the reaction vessel 3. Connect to 305.

Next, in FIG. 11B, the control function 32 of the processing device 90 outputs a second control signal for moving the reaction vessel 3 to the sample rack 5 to the drive device 80. In this case, in response to the second control signal, the drive device 80 raises the suction device 330 at the tip of the sample arm 10 by driving the sample arm 10, and the reaction vessel connected to the suction device 330. 3 is moved from the transfer unit 112 to the sample rack 5. At this time, since the reaction vessel 3 is taken out from the end of the rail of the transfer portion 112, the reaction vessel 3 aligned with the rail of the transfer portion 112 slides due to the weight of the reaction vessel 3.

After that, the control function 32 of the processing device 90 outputs a third control signal for contacting the suction port 310 of the reaction container 3 with the sample 130 in the sample container 11 to the drive device 80. In this case, in response to the third control signal, the drive device 80 drives the sample arm 10 to lower the suction device 330 at the tip of the sample arm 10, and the reaction vessel connected to the suction device 330. The suction port 310 of 3 is brought into contact with the sample 130 in the sample container 11 held in the sample rack 5.

Then, the control function 32 of the processing device 90 outputs a fourth control signal for sucking the sample 130 in the sample container 11 into the inside of the container main body 300 of the reaction container 3 to the drive device 80. In this case, in response to the fourth control signal, the drive device 80 moves the suction pump unit 332 of the suction device 330 at the tip of the sample arm 10 upward, and the sample rack 5 is sucked by the suction pump unit 332. The sample 130 in the sample container 11 held in the reaction vessel 3 is allowed to flow into the inside of the container body 300 of the reaction vessel 3.

Next, in FIG. 11C, the control function 32 of the processing device 90 outputs a fifth control signal for moving the reaction vessel 3 including the sample 130 to the reaction disk 4 to the drive device 80. In this case, in response to the fifth control signal, the drive device 80 drives the sample arm 10 to raise the reaction vessel 3 connected to the suction device 330 at the tip of the sample arm 10 to raise the sample 130. The containing reaction vessel 3 is moved from the sample rack 5 to the reaction disk 4. Then, the drive device 80 lowers the suction device 330 at the tip of the sample arm 10 to separate the connection portion 331 of the suction device 330 at the tip of the sample arm 10 from the reaction vessel 3 containing the sample 130.

After that, the reagents in the reagent containers 6 and 7 are dispensed into the reaction vessel 3 moved to the reaction disc 4 from the opening 305 side of the container body 300 of the reaction vessel 3. The measuring unit 13 measures the mixed solution of the sample 130 and the reagent in the reaction vessel 3 by irradiating the reaction vessel 3 at the measurement position with light. Alternatively, the measuring unit 13 measures the mixed solution by measuring the potential of the mixed solution in the reaction vessel 3.

Next, in FIG. 11D, the control function 32 of the processing device 90 outputs a sixth control signal for taking out the reaction vessel 3 for which the measurement has been completed from the reaction disk 4 to the drive device 80. In this case, in response to the sixth control signal, the drive device 80 drives the sample arm 10 to move the tip of the sample arm 10 to the reaction vessel 3 where the measurement on the reaction disk 4 is completed. Then, the drive device 80 lowers the suction device 330 at the tip of the sample arm 10 to connect the connection portion 331 of the suction device 330 to the opening 305 of the container body 300 of the reaction vessel 3 for which the measurement has been completed.

Next, in FIG. 11E, the control function 32 of the processing device 90 outputs a seventh control signal for discarding the reaction vessel 3 for which the measurement has been completed to the drive device 80. In this case, in response to the seventh control signal, the drive device 80 drives the sample arm 10 to move the reaction vessel 3 for which measurement has been completed from the reaction disk 4 to the disposal unit 120 and attach it to the sample arm 10. The connection portion 331 of the suction device 330 is separated from the reaction vessel 3 for which the measurement has been completed. That is, since the disposal section 120 is a container for discarding the reaction vessel 3 after measurement, the reaction vessel 3 after measurement is discarded by accommodating the reaction vessel 3 after measurement in the disposal section 120.

After that, in FIG. 11F, the control function 32 of the processing device 90 outputs the first control signal to the drive device 80 again. In this case, similarly to the above, in response to the first control signal, the drive device 80 drives the sample arm 10 to take out the reaction vessel 3 that has moved to the end of the rail of the transfer unit 112.

As described above, the reaction vessel 3 according to the first embodiment includes the container main body 300 and the suction port 310, and the suction port 310 is provided in the container main body 300, and the sucked sample 130 is used in the container main body 300. Let it flow inside. As a result, in the first embodiment, the sample dispensing probe, the sample dispensing pump that causes the sample dispensing probe to suck and discharge the sample, and the sample dispensing probe are washed after each sample dispensing is completed. No need for a tank. For example, in the method in which the sample dispensing probe sucks the sample and discharges it into the reaction vessel, when the sample dispensing probe into which the sample is dispensed is washed, if the sample is not sufficiently removed by washing, the effect of the sample is affected. Therefore, carryover may occur. On the other hand, in the first embodiment, since the sucked sample 130 flows into the inside of the container body 300, the sample dispensing probe, the sample dispensing pump, and the washing tank become unnecessary, and as a result, carryover is performed. Does not occur. Since carryover does not occur in the automatic analyzer 100, the measurement efficiency can be improved.

(Second embodiment)
In the reaction vessel 3 according to the first embodiment, the case where the suction device 330 for sucking the sample 130 is connected to the container main body 300 has been described. In the reaction vessel 3 according to the second embodiment, a suction device for sucking the sample 130 is provided in the container main body 300. Further, in the reaction container 3 according to the second embodiment, since the reagent is stored in the container main body 300, the reagent container for storing the reagent becomes unnecessary. Hereinafter, a configuration example of the reaction vessel 3 according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 12 to 15. In the second embodiment, the description overlapping with the first embodiment will be omitted.

12A to 12C are cross-sectional views showing a first configuration example of the reaction vessel 3 according to the second embodiment.

The reaction vessel 3 has a vessel body 300, a suction device 330, a reaction chamber 342, and a flow path control unit 344. The suction device 330 is provided in the container body 300 and sucks the sample 130 in the same manner as in the first embodiment. The reaction chamber 342 is provided inside the container body 300, and houses the reagent 140 that reacts with the sample 130. The reagent 140 is, for example, a one-reagent system reagent.

The flow path control unit 344 has members 344A and 344B slidably provided inside the container body 300 in the left-right direction, and members 344A and 344C that support the members 344A and 344B outside the container body 300. The member 344B is arranged above the member 344A, and a through hole TH is formed in the members 344A and 344B.

Next, the suction operation in the first configuration example of the reaction vessel 3 according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 12A to 12C.

First, in FIG. 12A, the drive device 80 connects the tip of the sample arm 10 to the suction device 330 of the reaction vessel 3 on the transfer unit 112. Next, the drive device 80 lowers the reaction vessel 3 connected to the tip of the sample arm 10, and the suction port 310 of the reaction vessel 3 comes into contact with the sample 130 in the sample vessel 11 held in the sample rack 5. Let me. Next, in FIG. 12B, when the sample 130 is sucked, the drive device 80 slides the member 344C of the flow path control unit 344 of the reaction vessel 3 to the right by a set amount, so that the member of the flow path control unit 344. 344A and 344B are slid at the same time to form the flow path 343 in the flow path control unit 344. For example, as shown by the diagonal line in FIG. 12B, the flow path 343 is a flow path from the suction port 310 to the suction device 330 via the through hole TH of the member 344A, the reaction chamber 342, and the through hole TH of the member 344B. be. At this time, the drive device 80 drives the suction pump unit 332 of the suction device 330, so that the sample 130 in the sample container 11 held in the sample rack 5 by the suction by the suction pump unit 332 becomes the reaction container 3. It flows into the reaction chamber 342 of. Next, in FIG. 12C, the drive device 80 closes the flow path 343 by sliding the member 344C of the flow path control unit 344 to the left by a set amount after sucking the sample 130. As a result, the mixed solution 150 of the sample 130 and the reagent 140 is housed in the reaction chamber 342 of the reaction vessel 3.

13A to 13C are cross-sectional views showing a second configuration example of the reaction vessel 3 according to the second embodiment. Here, with respect to the second configuration example, changes in the first configuration example will be described.

In the second configuration example, the reaction vessel 3 has a suction device 340 provided inside the container body 300 instead of the suction device 330 in the first configuration example. The suction device 340 is a decompression chamber 341 whose pressure is lower than the atmospheric pressure.

Next, the suction operation in the second configuration example of the reaction vessel 3 according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 13A to 13C.

First, in FIG. 13A, the drive device 80 connects the tip of the sample arm 10 to the reaction vessel 3 on the transfer unit 112. Next, the drive device 80 lowers the reaction vessel 3 connected to the tip of the sample arm 10, and the suction port 310 of the reaction vessel 3 comes into contact with the sample 130 in the sample vessel 11 held in the sample rack 5. Let me. Next, in FIG. 13B, when the sample 130 is sucked, the drive device 80 slides the member 344C of the flow path control unit 344 of the reaction vessel 3 to the right by a set amount, so that the member of the flow path control unit 344. 344A and 344B are slid at the same time to form the flow path 343 in the flow path control unit 344. For example, as shown by the diagonal line in FIG. 13B, the flow path 343 is a flow path from the suction port 310 to the decompression chamber 341 via the through hole TH of the member 344A, the reaction chamber 342, and the through hole TH of the member 344B. be. At this time, due to the decompression by the decompression chamber 341, the sample 130 in the sample container 11 held in the sample rack 5 flows into the reaction chamber 342 of the reaction vessel 3. Next, in FIG. 13C, the drive device 80 closes the flow path 343 by sliding the member 344C of the flow path control unit 344 to the left by a set amount after sucking the sample 130. As a result, the mixed solution 150 of the sample 130 and the reagent 140 is housed in the reaction chamber 342 of the reaction vessel 3.

14A to 14E are cross-sectional views showing a third configuration example of the reaction vessel 3 according to the second embodiment. Here, with respect to the third configuration example, changes in the second configuration example will be described.

In the third configuration example, the reaction vessel 3 has the decompression chambers 341A and 341B which are the decompression chambers 341 in the second configuration example and the reaction chambers 342A and 342B which are the reaction chambers 342 in the second configuration example. The reaction chambers 342A and 342B are provided inside the container body 300, and contain reagents 141 and 142 that react with the sample 130, respectively. For example, the reagents 141 and 142 are the reagents in the reagent containers 6 and 7, respectively. The reaction chambers 342A and 342B are examples of the first reaction chamber and the second reaction chamber, respectively, and the reagents 141 and 142 are the first reagent of the two-reagent system and the second reagent different from the reagent of the two-reagent system, respectively. This is an example.

The flow path control unit 344 has members 344A to 344C slidably provided inside the container body 300 in the left-right direction, and members 344D supporting the members 344A to 344C outside the container body 300. The member 344B is arranged above the member 344A, and the member 344C is arranged above the member 344B. Through holes TH1 and TH2 are formed in the members 344A to 344C.

Next, the suction operation in the third configuration example of the reaction vessel 3 according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 14A to 14E.

First, in FIG. 14A, the drive device 80 connects the tip of the sample arm 10 to the reaction vessel 3 on the transfer unit 112. Next, in FIG. 14B, the drive device 80 lowers the reaction vessel 3 connected to the tip of the sample arm 10, and the suction port 310 of the reaction vessel 3 is in the sample vessel 11 held in the sample rack 5. Contact with sample 130. Then, when the sample 130 is sucked, the drive device 80 slides the member 344D of the flow path control unit 344 of the reaction vessel 3 to the left by the first set amount, so that the members 344A to 344C of the flow path control unit 344 At the same time, the flow path 343A is formed in the flow path control unit 344. For example, as shown by the diagonal line in FIG. 14B, the flow path 343A is depressurized from the suction port 310 via the through hole TH1 of the member 344A, the reaction chamber 342A, the through hole TH1 of the member 344B, and the through hole TH1 of the member 344C. It is a flow path to the chamber 341A. At this time, due to the decompression by the decompression chamber 341A, the sample 130 in the sample container 11 held in the sample rack 5 flows into the reaction chamber 342A of the reaction vessel 3. Next, in FIG. 14C, the drive device 80 closes the flow path 343A by sliding the member 344D of the flow path control unit 344 to the left by a second set amount after sucking the sample 130. As a result, the mixed solution 151 of the sample 130 and the reagent 141 is contained in the reaction chamber 342A. The flow path 343A is an example of the first flow path.

Next, in FIG. 14D, the drive device 80 slides the member 344D of the flow path control unit 344 of the reaction vessel 3 to the left by a third set amount, whereby the members 344A to the flow path control unit 344. The flow path 343B is formed in the flow path control unit 344 by sliding the 344C at the same time. For example, as shown by the diagonal line in FIG. 14D, the flow path 343B has a through hole TH2 of the member 344A, a reaction chamber 342A, a through hole TH2 of the member 344B, a reaction chamber 342B, and a through hole TH2 of the member 344C from the suction port 310. It is a flow path to the decompression chamber 341B via. At this time, due to the decompression by the decompression chamber 341B, the mixed liquid 151 in the reaction chamber 342A flows into the reaction chamber 342B. Next, in FIG. 14E, the drive device 80 closes the flow path 343B by sliding the member 344D of the flow path control unit 344 to the left by a fourth set amount. As a result, the mixed solution 152 of the mixed solution 151 and the reagent 142 is housed in the reaction chamber 342B. The flow path 343B is an example of the second flow path.

15A to 15E are cross-sectional views showing a fourth configuration example of the reaction vessel 3 according to the second embodiment. Here, with respect to the fourth configuration example, changes in the second configuration example will be described.

In the fourth configuration example, the reaction vessel 3 has, in addition to the second configuration example, a pressurizing chamber 345 whose pressure is higher than the atmospheric pressure. Further, the fourth configuration example has reaction chambers 342A and 342B, which are the reaction chambers 342 in the second configuration example. In the fourth configuration example, the reaction vessel 3 further has a backflow prevention unit 320 provided in the container main body 300, for example, as a backflow prevention unit 320, a backflow from the reaction chamber 342A toward the suction port 310. A check valve for preventing backflow from the reaction chamber 342B and a check valve for preventing backflow from the reaction chamber 342A in the direction of the reaction chamber 342A are provided. Further, a through hole 350 formed from the upper surface portion to the reaction chamber 342B in the container main body 300 is provided on the upper surface portion on the opposite side of the bottom surface portion of the container main body 300.

The flow path control unit 344 has members 344A and 344B slidably provided inside the container body 300 in the left-right direction, and members 344A and 344C that support the members 344A and 344B outside the container body 300. The member 344B is arranged above the member 344A. Through holes TH1 and TH2 are formed in the member 344A, and through holes TH are formed in the member 344B.

Next, it is a figure for demonstrating the suction operation in the 4th structural example of the reaction vessel 3 which concerns on 2nd Embodiment using FIGS. 15A to 15E.

First, in FIG. 15A, the drive device 80 connects the tip of the sample arm 10 to the reaction vessel 3 on the transfer unit 112. Next, in FIG. 15B, the drive device 80 lowers the reaction vessel 3 connected to the tip of the sample arm 10, and the suction port 310 of the reaction vessel 3 is in the sample vessel 11 held in the sample rack 5. Contact with sample 130. Then, when the sample 130 is sucked, the drive device 80 slides the member 344C of the flow path control unit 344 of the reaction vessel 3 to the left by the first set amount, so that the members 344A and 344B of the flow path control unit 344 At the same time, the flow path 343A is formed in the flow path control unit 344. For example, the flow path 343A is a flow path from the suction port 310 to the decompression chamber 341 via the reaction chamber 342A and the through hole TH1 of the member 344A, as shown by the diagonal line in FIG. 15B. At this time, due to the decompression by the decompression chamber 341, the sample 130 in the sample container 11 held in the sample rack 5 flows into the reaction chamber 342A of the reaction vessel 3. Next, in FIG. 15C, the drive device 80 closes the flow path 343A by sliding the member 344C of the flow path control unit 344 to the left by a second set amount after sucking the sample 130. As a result, the mixed solution 151 of the sample 130 and the reagent 141 is contained in the reaction chamber 342A. The flow path 343A is an example of the first flow path.

Next, in FIG. 15D, the drive device 80 slides the member 344C of the flow path control unit 344 of the reaction vessel 3 to the left by a third set amount, so that the member 344A of the flow path control unit 344 The flow path 343B is formed in the flow path control unit 344 by sliding the 344B at the same time. For example, as shown by the diagonal line in FIG. 15D, the flow path 343B includes a through hole TH of the member 344B from the pressurizing chamber 345, a decompression chamber 341 after use, a through hole TH2 of the member 344A, a reaction chamber 342A, and a reaction chamber 342B. It is a flow path to the through hole 350 via the above. At this time, due to the pressurization by the pressurizing chamber 345, the mixed liquid 151 in the reaction chamber 342A flows into the reaction chamber 342B. Next, in FIG. 15E, the drive device 80 closes the flow path 343B by sliding the member 344C of the flow path control unit 344 to the left by a fourth set amount. As a result, the mixed solution 152 of the mixed solution 151 and the reagent 142 is housed in the reaction chamber 342B. The flow path 343B is an example of the second flow path.

Here, in the reaction vessel 3 according to the second embodiment, for example, in the first to fourth configuration examples, a mechanism of a stirrer may be provided in the reaction chamber, and the sample and the reagent may be agitated in the reaction chamber. .. Further, in the reaction vessel 3 according to the second embodiment, for example, in the first and second configuration examples, a case where one reagent is stored in one reaction chamber will be described, and the third and fourth configurations will be described. In the configuration example, the case where two reagents are stored in two reaction chambers has been described, but when three or more reagents are used, three or more reagents are stored in three or more reaction chambers, respectively. This can be achieved by forming the flow paths in order.

FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the analyzer 70'of the automated analyzer 100 to which the reaction vessel 3 according to the second embodiment is applied. In the reaction vessel 3 according to the second embodiment, the sample can be sucked and the sample and the reagent can be mixed inside the vessel body 300. Therefore, in the second embodiment, the sample and the reagent can be mixed. , The scale of the apparatus can be reduced as compared with the first embodiment. For example, in the analyzer 70'of FIG. 16, the reagent storage 1, the reagent rack 1a, the reagent storage 2, the reagent rack 2a, the reagent containers 6, 7, the reagent dispensing arms 8, 9, and the reagents of the analyzer 70 of FIG. 2 are shown. Note Probes 14, 15, reagent dispensing pumps 14a, 15a, reagent detectors 14b, 15b, cleaning tanks 14c, 15c, stirrers 17, 19, cleaning tanks 17a, 19a, stirring arms 18, 20 are no longer required.

17A to 17F are diagrams showing a procedure of processing of the automatic analyzer 100 to which the reaction vessel 3 according to the second embodiment is applied. Here, here, in the second embodiment, since the scale of the apparatus can be reduced as compared with the first embodiment, the disposal unit 120 is arranged at the position where the reagent storage 1 of FIG. 2 is arranged. ing. In the examples shown in FIGS. 17A to 17F, a plurality of transfer units 112 are arranged.

First, in FIG. 17A, the control function 32 of the processing device 90 outputs a first control signal for taking out the reaction vessel 3 from the transfer unit 112 to the drive device 80. In this case, in response to the first control signal, the drive device 80 drives the sample arm 10 to bring the tip of the sample arm 10 to the end of the rail of the selected transfer unit 112 among the plurality of transfer units 112. Move to. Then, the drive device 80 lowers the tip of the sample arm 10 and takes out the reaction vessel 3 that has moved to the end of the rail of the transfer unit 112.

Next, in FIG. 17B, the control function 32 of the processing device 90 outputs a second control signal for moving the reaction vessel 3 to the sample rack 5 to the drive device 80. In this case, in response to the second control signal, the drive device 80 drives the sample arm 10 to raise the tip of the sample arm 10 and move the reaction vessel 3 from the transfer unit 112 to the sample rack 5. ..

After that, the control function 32 of the processing device 90 outputs a third control signal for contacting the suction port 310 of the reaction container 3 with the sample 130 in the sample container 11 to the drive device 80. In this case, in response to the third control signal, the drive device 80 drives the sample arm 10 to lower the tip of the sample arm 10 and holds the suction port 310 of the reaction vessel 3 in the sample rack 5. The sample 130 in the sample container 11 is brought into contact with the sample 130.

Then, the control function 32 of the processing device 90 outputs a fourth control signal for sucking the sample 130 in the sample container 11 into the inside of the container main body 300 of the reaction container 3 to the drive device 80. In this case, in response to the fourth control signal, the drive device 80 controls the flow path control unit 344 and the like of the reaction vessel 3 from the tip of the sample arm 10 as follows.

In the first configuration example, the drive device 80 forms the flow path 343 from the suction port 310 of the reaction vessel 3 to the suction device 330 via the reaction chamber 342, so that the flow path control unit 344 of the reaction vessel 3 is formed. By driving the suction pump unit 332 of the suction device 330 of the reaction vessel 3, the sample 130 in the sample container 11 held in the sample rack 5 by the suction by the suction pump unit 332 is brought into the reaction vessel 3. Inflow into the reaction chamber 342 of. After that, the drive device 80 controls the flow path control unit 344 so that the flow path 343 is closed. At this time, the mixed solution 150 of the sample 130 and the reagent 140 is housed in the reaction chamber 342.

In the second configuration example, the drive device 80 forms the flow path 343 from the suction port 310 of the reaction vessel 3 to the suction device 330 via the reaction chamber 342, so that the flow path control unit 344 of the reaction vessel 3 is formed. To control. At this time, due to the decompression by the decompression chamber 341 of the reaction vessel 3, the sample 130 in the sample vessel 11 held in the sample rack 5 flows into the reaction chamber 342 of the reaction vessel 3. After that, the drive device 80 controls the flow path control unit 344 so that the flow path 343 is closed. At this time, the mixed solution 150 of the sample 130 and the reagent 140 is housed in the reaction chamber 342.

In the third configuration example, the drive device 80 forms the flow path 343A from the suction port 310 of the reaction vessel 3 to the decompression chamber 341A via the reaction chamber 342A, so that the flow path control unit 344 of the reaction vessel 3 is formed. To control. At this time, due to the decompression by the decompression chamber 341A, the sample 130 in the sample container 11 held in the sample rack 5 flows into the reaction chamber 342A of the reaction vessel 3. After that, the drive device 80 controls the flow path control unit 344 so that the flow path 343A is closed. At this time, the mixed solution 151 of the sample 130 and the reagent 141 is housed in the reaction chamber 342A. Then, the drive device 80 controls the flow path control unit 344 so as to form the flow path 343B from the suction port 310 to the decompression chamber 341B via the reaction chamber 342A and the reaction chamber 342B. At this time, due to the decompression by the decompression chamber 341B, the mixed liquid 151 in the reaction chamber 342A flows into the reaction chamber 342B. After that, the drive device 80 controls the flow path control unit 344 so that the flow path 343B is closed. At this time, the mixed liquid 152 of the mixed liquid 151 and the reagent 142 is housed in the reaction chamber 342B.

In the fourth configuration example, the drive device 80 forms the flow path 343A from the suction port 310 of the reaction vessel 3 to the decompression chamber 341 via the reaction chamber 342A, so that the flow path control unit 344 of the reaction vessel 3 is formed. To control. At this time, due to the decompression by the decompression chamber 341, the sample 130 in the sample container 11 held in the sample rack 5 flows into the reaction chamber 342A of the reaction vessel 3. After that, the drive device 80 controls the flow path control unit 344 so that the flow path 343A is closed. At this time, the mixed solution 151 of the sample 130 and the reagent 141 is housed in the reaction chamber 342A. Then, the drive device 80 forms the flow path 343B from the pressurizing chamber 345 to the through hole 350 via the pressure reducing chamber 341, the reaction chamber 342A, and the reaction chamber 342B after use. To control. At this time, due to the pressurization by the pressurizing chamber 345, the mixed liquid 151 in the reaction chamber 342A flows into the reaction chamber 342B. After that, the drive device 80 controls the flow path control unit 344 so that the flow path 343B is closed. At this time, the mixed liquid 152 of the mixed liquid 151 and the reagent 142 is housed in the reaction chamber 342B.

Next, in FIG. 17C, the control function 32 of the processing device 90 outputs a fifth control signal for moving the reaction vessel 3 containing the mixed solution of the sample and the reagent to the reaction disk 4 to the driving device 80. In this case, in response to the fifth control signal, the drive device 80 raises the tip of the sample arm 10 by driving the sample arm 10, and the reaction vessel 3 containing the sample 130 is moved from the sample rack 5 to the reaction disk. Move to 4. Then, the drive device 80 lowers the tip of the sample arm 10 to separate the reaction vessel 3 containing the mixed solution of the sample and the reagent from the tip of the sample arm 10.

After that, the measuring unit 13 measures the mixed solution of the sample and the reagent in the reaction vessel 3 by irradiating the reaction vessel 3 at the measurement position with light. Alternatively, the measuring unit 13 measures the mixed solution by measuring the potential of the mixed solution in the reaction vessel 3.

Next, in FIG. 17D, the control function 32 of the processing device 90 outputs a sixth control signal for taking out the reaction vessel 3 for which the measurement has been completed from the reaction disk 4 to the drive device 80. In this case, in response to the sixth control signal, the drive device 80 drives the sample arm 10 to move the tip of the sample arm 10 to the reaction vessel 3 where the measurement on the reaction disk 4 is completed. Then, the drive device 80 lowers the tip of the sample arm 10 to take out the reaction vessel 3 for which the measurement has been completed.

Next, in FIG. 17E, the control function 32 of the processing device 90 outputs a seventh control signal for discarding the reaction vessel 3 for which the measurement has been completed to the drive device 80. In this case, in response to the seventh control signal, the drive device 80 drives the sample arm 10 to move the reaction vessel 3 whose measurement has been completed from the reaction disk 4 to the disposal unit 120, and the tip of the sample arm 10. Then, the reaction vessel 3 for which the measurement has been completed is detached. That is, by accommodating the reaction vessel 3 after the measurement in the disposal unit 120, the reaction vessel 3 after the measurement is discarded.

After that, in FIG. 17F, the control function 32 of the processing device 90 outputs the first control signal to the drive device 80 again. In this case, similarly to the above, in response to the first control signal, the drive device 80 drives the sample arm 10 to take out the reaction vessel 3 that has moved to the end of the rail of the transfer unit 112.

As described above, the reaction vessel 3 according to the second embodiment includes the container main body 300 and the suction port 310, and the suction port 310 is provided in the container main body 300, and the sucked sample 130 is used as the container main body 300. Inflow into the inside of. Therefore, in the second embodiment, as in the first embodiment, the automatic analyzer 100 does not carry over, so that the measurement efficiency can be improved.

Further, the reaction vessel 3 according to the second embodiment is provided in the container main body 300, and is provided inside the suction device (suction device 330 or the suction device 340) for sucking the sample 130 and the inside of the container main body 300. A reaction chamber 342 and a flow path control unit 344 are provided. The reaction chamber 342 contains the reagent 140 that reacts with the sample 130, and the flow path control unit 344 forms a flow path 343 from the suction port 310 to the suction device via the reaction chamber 342, thereby forming the reaction chamber 342. The sample 130 is made to flow into the inside. This eliminates the need for a probe or pump for dispensing the sample and reagent, a stirrer or stirring arm for stirring the sample and the reagent, a washing tank for cleaning the probe, and the like in the second embodiment. Therefore, in the second embodiment, the scale of the device can be reduced as compared with the first embodiment.

According to at least one embodiment described above, the measurement efficiency can be improved.

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

3 Reaction vessel 100 Automatic analyzer 300 Container body 310 Suction port

Claims (11)

It is used for measurement of an automatic analyzer, and is a reaction vessel that houses a mixed solution of a sample and a reagent to be measured.
With the container body
A suction port provided in the container body for allowing the sucked sample to flow into the inside of the container body.
A reaction vessel comprising. The sample is sucked by a suction device that can be attached to and detached from the container body.
The suction device is
At the time of suction of the sample, the reagent that reacts with the sample is dispensed and connected to the opening of the container body.
After the connection with the container body, the sample is sucked and the sample is allowed to flow into the inside of the container body from the suction port.
After sucking the sample, it separates from the container body.
The reaction vessel according to claim 1. A detector that detects contact between the sample and the suction port,
Further prepare
When the detection unit detects the contact, the suction device starts suctioning the sample.
The reaction vessel according to claim 2. A suction device provided on the container body for sucking the sample,
A reaction chamber provided inside the container body and containing a reagent that reacts with the sample, and a reaction chamber.
A flow path control unit that allows the sample to flow into the reaction chamber by forming a flow path from the suction port to the suction device via the reaction chamber.
The reaction vessel according to claim 1, further comprising. The suction device is a decompression chamber.
The reaction vessel according to claim 4. The decompression chamber has a first decompression chamber and a second decompression chamber.
The reaction chamber has a first reaction chamber containing the first reagent and a second reaction chamber containing the second reagent.
The flow path control unit
By forming a first flow path, which is the flow path from the suction port to the first decompression chamber via the first reaction chamber, the sample is allowed to flow into the first reaction chamber.
After forming the first flow path, by forming a second flow path from the first reaction chamber to the second decompression chamber via the second reaction chamber, the sample and the sample are formed in the second reaction chamber. Inflowing the mixed solution with the first reagent,
The reaction vessel according to claim 5. A pressurizing chamber provided in the container body,
Further prepare
The reaction chamber has a first reaction chamber containing the first reagent and a second reaction chamber containing the second reagent.
The flow path control unit
By forming a first flow path, which is the flow path from the suction port to the decompression chamber via the first reaction chamber, the sample is allowed to flow into the first reaction chamber.
After forming the first flow path, the sample and the sample are formed in the second reaction chamber by forming a second flow path from the pressurizing chamber to the second reaction chamber via the first reaction chamber. Inflowing the mixed solution with the first reagent,
The reaction vessel according to claim 5. The suction port is provided with a backflow prevention portion for preventing backflow from the inside to the outside of the container body.
The reaction vessel according to any one of claims 1 to 7. The reaction vessel is discarded after the mixture in the reaction vessel is measured.
The reaction vessel according to any one of claims 1 to 8. The reaction vessel according to any one of claims 1 to 9,
A measuring unit for measuring a mixed solution of the sample and the reagent in the reaction vessel, and a measuring unit.
An automated analyzer equipped with. A suction device for sucking the sample into the container body from the suction port,
The automatic analyzer according to claim 10.

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