阅读说明：本技术 自动分析装置 (Automatic analyzer ) 是由 熊谷孝宏 野田和广 福田将也 于 2020-02-04 设计创作，主要内容包括：本发明的目的在于提供保持保管试剂容器的试剂保冷箱中清洁的自动分析装置。该自动分析装置分析样品,其特征在于,具备：试剂保冷箱,其以预定的温度保管容纳与上述样品反应的试剂的试剂容器；试剂容器更换部,其具有用于使上述试剂容器出入上述试剂保冷箱的开口,上述开口被开闭而更换上述试剂容器；以及正压部,其在上述开口打开时,将上述试剂保冷箱中相对于上述试剂保冷箱的周围正压化。(The invention aims to provide an automatic analyzer which keeps a reagent cold box for keeping reagent containers clean. The automatic analyzer analyzes a sample, and is characterized by comprising: a reagent cooling box for storing a reagent container containing a reagent that reacts with the sample at a predetermined temperature; a reagent container replacement unit having an opening for inserting and removing the reagent container into and from the reagent cooling box, the opening being opened and closed to replace the reagent container; and a positive pressure unit that, when the opening is opened, positively pressurizes the reagent cooling box with respect to the periphery of the reagent cooling box.)

1. An automatic analyzer for analyzing a sample, the automatic analyzer comprising:

a reagent cooling box for storing a reagent container containing a reagent that reacts with the sample at a predetermined temperature;

a reagent container replacement unit having an opening for inserting and removing the reagent container into and from the reagent cooling box, the opening being opened and closed to replace the reagent container; and

and a positive pressure section that positively pressurizes the reagent cooling box with respect to the periphery of the reagent cooling box when the opening is opened.

2. The automatic analysis device according to claim 1,

the positive pressure part is provided with an air supply part for sucking air into the reagent cold insulation box.

3. The automatic analysis device according to claim 2,

the air supply part controls the air supply amount according to the opening condition of the opening.

4. The automatic analysis device according to claim 2,

the air supply unit performs at least one of dehumidification, sterilization, dust removal, and temperature adjustment on the sucked air.

5. The automatic analysis device according to claim 2,

further comprising a reagent dispensing unit for dispensing the reagent from the reagent container,

the gas supply unit is controlled based on the operation of the reagent dispensing unit.

6. The automatic analysis device according to claim 2,

the gas supply unit is controlled based on opening and closing of the lid of the reagent container.

7. The automatic analysis device according to claim 1,

and a sterilization unit for sterilizing the air in the reagent refrigerator.

8. The automatic analysis device according to claim 1,

the positive pressure portion makes the periphery of the reagent cooling box become negative pressure relative to the reagent cooling box.

9. The automatic analysis device according to claim 1,

and a removing unit which is adjacent to the reagent container replacing unit and removes dust and bacteria attached to the reagent container.

10. An automatic analyzer for analyzing a sample, the automatic analyzer being characterized in that,

the disclosed device is provided with:

a reagent cooling box for storing a reagent container containing a reagent that reacts with the sample at a predetermined temperature;

a reagent container replacement unit having an opening for inserting and removing the reagent container into and from the reagent cooling box, the opening being opened and closed to replace the reagent container; and

and a removing unit which is adjacent to the reagent container replacing unit and removes dust and bacteria attached to the reagent container.

Technical Field

The present invention relates to an automatic analyzer.

Background

In hospitals and examination facilities, automatic analyzers are used to analyze samples such as blood and urine provided by subjects for clinical examination. Analysis performed in an automatic analyzer is performed with an accuracy of fmol/L level, and it is important to prevent dust and the like from entering a reaction region, which is a region where a reagent for analysis and a sample react with each other, in order to improve the analysis accuracy.

Patent document 1 discloses an automatic analyzer that prevents dust and the like from entering a reaction region by setting the pressure in the reaction region and a region for temporarily storing consumables such as a dispensing head supplied to the reaction region to be higher than the ambient pressure.

Documents of the prior art

Patent document

Patent document 1: international publication WO18/047544

Disclosure of Invention

Problems to be solved by the invention

However, in the automatic analyzer disclosed in patent document 1, inflow of outside air into a reagent cooling box in which reagent containers for analysis are stored at low temperature for a long period of time is not considered. The inflow of the outside air into the reagent cooling box may cause contamination of the reagent cooling box by contamination of dust, bacteria, and the like contained in the outside air, or condensation due to a temperature difference between the inside and the outside of the reagent cooling box. Contamination in the reagent cooling box deteriorates the reagent, and in the analysis using the deteriorated reagent, there is a possibility that the analysis accuracy of the automatic analyzer is lowered.

Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide an automatic analyzer that keeps a reagent container in a reagent refrigerator clean.

Means for solving the problems

In order to achieve the above object, the present invention is an automatic analyzer for analyzing a sample, comprising: a reagent cooling box for storing a reagent container containing a reagent that reacts with the sample at a predetermined temperature; a reagent container replacement unit having an opening for inserting and removing the reagent container into and from the reagent cooling box, the opening being opened and closed to replace the reagent container; and a positive pressure unit that, when the opening is opened, positively pressurizes the reagent cooling box with respect to the periphery of the reagent cooling box.

Further, the present invention is an automatic analyzer for analyzing a sample, comprising: a reagent cooling box for storing a reagent container containing a reagent that reacts with the sample at a predetermined temperature; a reagent container replacement unit having an opening for inserting and removing the reagent container into and from the reagent cooling box, the opening being opened and closed to replace the reagent container; and a removing unit which is adjacent to the reagent container replacing unit and removes dust or bacteria attached to the reagent container.

Effects of the invention

According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an automatic analyzer that keeps a reagent refrigerator in which reagent containers are stored clean.

Drawings

Fig. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of an automatic analyzer according to embodiment 1.

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the structure of the reagent cooling box of example 1.

FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining an example of the operation of the reagent cooling box of example 2.

FIG. 4 is a supplementary explanation of an example of the operation of the reagent cooling box of example 2.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the structure of the reagent cooling box of example 3.

FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining an example of the operation of the reagent cooling box of example 4.

FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining an example of the operation of the reagent cooling box of example 5.

FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of the structure of the reagent cooling box of example 6.

FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of the structure of the reagent cooling box of example 7.

FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of the structure of the reagent cooling box of example 8.

Detailed Description

Example 1

The automatic analyzer 100 of the present embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings. The automatic analyzer 100 is an apparatus for analyzing a sample such as blood or urine provided by a subject for clinical examination.

An automatic analyzer 100 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to fig. 1. The automatic analyzer 100 is configured by connecting a control unit 101 and an analysis unit 102 via a communication line 103. The control unit 101 is a device that controls each part of the analysis unit 102, and is, for example, a so-called computer. The operator inputs analysis conditions and the like from an input unit such as a keyboard, a mouse, and a touch panel included in the control unit 101, and confirms the analysis results in an output unit such as a liquid crystal display and a touch panel.

The analysis section 102 is a device for analyzing a sample by measuring luminescence or discoloration caused by a reaction between a reagent for analysis and the sample, and includes a sample transport path 110, a reagent cooling box 120, a thermal insulation box 130, and a reaction solution measurement section 140. Hereinafter, each part will be explained.

The sample transport path 110 is a device for transporting a sample container 111 containing a sample such as blood or urine to the vicinity of a sample dispensing unit 112. The sample dispensing unit 112 suctions the sample from the transferred sample container 111, and discharges the sample to the reaction container 117 disposed in the incubator 130 to dispense the sample. The sample dispensing unit 112 is equipped with a dispensing head 116 that is transported from the carrier 115 to the dispensing head attaching and detaching unit 113 by the transport unit 114. In order to prevent contamination during sample dispensing, the dispensing tip 116 is replaced for each dispensing.

The reagent cooling box 120 is a device for storing a reagent container 123 containing a reagent for analysis at a low temperature for a long period of time, and includes a reagent tray 121 and a reagent cover 122. The temperature inside the reagent cooling box 120 is maintained at, for example, about 5 to 10 degrees. The reagent disk 121 mounts the reagent container 123 thereon, and rotates about the Z axis as a rotation axis to move the reagent container 123 to a predetermined position, for example, the vicinity of the reagent dispenser 124. The reagent cover 122 is a cover that covers the reagent disk 121 and remains stationary even if the reagent disk 121 rotates. In fig. 1, the arrangement of the reagent containers 123 mounted on the reagent disk 121 is understood by partially transmitting the reagent cover 122. The reagent cover 122 is provided with a dispensing hole 125 as a hole used when a reagent is dispensed by the reagent dispensing unit 124, and a reagent container replacement unit 126 for replacing the reagent container 123. The reagent dispensing unit 124 suctions a reagent from the reagent container 123 through the dispensing hole 125, and discharges the reagent to the reaction container 117, which is disposed in the incubator 130 and into which a sample is dispensed, to dispense the reagent. The reagent cooling box 120 will be described later with reference to fig. 2.

The incubator 130 is a device that holds a mixed solution of a sample dispensed by the sample dispenser 112 and a reagent dispensed by the reagent dispenser 124 at a constant temperature. Before dispensing a sample or a reagent, the reaction vessel 117 is transferred from the mounting frame 115 to the incubator 130 by the transfer unit 114. The reaction solution is generated by holding the mixed solution in the reaction vessel 117 at a constant temperature.

The reaction solution measuring unit 140 analyzes the sample by measuring the discoloration or luminescence of the reaction solution dispensed from the reaction vessel 117 disposed in the incubator 130 by the reaction solution dispensing unit 141. The analysis result of the reaction liquid measurement unit 140 is displayed on an output unit such as a liquid crystal display or a touch panel included in the control unit 101. The reaction vessel 117 to which the reaction solution is dispensed is removed by being conveyed from the incubator 130 to the mounting rack 115 by the conveying unit 114.

The structure of the reagent cooling box 120 of the present embodiment will be described with reference to fig. 2. Fig. 2(a) is a sectional view taken along line a-a of fig. 1, and fig. 2(B) is a view taken along line B-B of fig. 2 (a). The reagent cover 122 of the reagent cooling box 120 of the present embodiment includes a reagent container replacement unit 126 and an air supply unit 201.

The reagent container replacement unit 126 is configured to extend a partially cut-away circular ring shape in the Z-axis direction, and has a height 2 times or more the height of the reagent container 123. The reagent container replacement unit 126 is provided with an opening for inserting and removing the reagent container 123 in the radial direction of the reagent cover 122. The reagent pack replacement unit 126 includes a top plate 126a and a bottom plate 126b that move the reagent pack 123 in the Z direction while holding the reagent pack from above and below.

When the top plate 126a and the bottom plate 126b are positioned at the uppermost layer of the reagent pack replacement unit 126, the reagent pack 123 is inserted into and removed from the reagent pack replacement unit 126. When the top plate 126a and the bottom plate 126b are positioned at the lowermost layer, the reagent pack 123 moves between the reagent pack replacement unit 126 and the reagent disk 121. That is, the reagent container 123 is inserted into and removed from the reagent cooling box 120 through the reagent container replacement unit 126. In fig. 2(a) and 2(b), the movement of the reagent vessel 123 is indicated by a double arrow. The control unit 101 controls a transport mechanism, not shown, to move the reagent container 123.

Further, a rubber airtight holder or the like may be provided at the edge portions of the top plate 126a and the bottom plate 126 b. By providing the airtight holders, the top plate 126a or the bottom plate 126b functions as a cover when the top plate 126a and the bottom plate 126b are positioned at the uppermost layer or the lowermost layer of the reagent pack replacement part 126. That is, the bottom plate 126b cuts the reagent cooling box 120 from the surroundings at the uppermost layer, and the top plate 126a cuts the reagent cooling box 120 from the surroundings at the lowermost layer.

The air supply unit 201 is a device for sucking air into the reagent cooling box 120, and is, for example, a blower or the like. By sucking air through the air supply unit 201, the pressure in the reagent cooling box 120 is increased to the positive pressure with respect to the surroundings, and the inflow of outside air from the surroundings of the reagent cooling box 120 can be prevented. In particular, when the top plate 126a and the bottom plate 126b are positioned between the uppermost layer and the lowermost layer of the reagent container replacement unit 126, although the opening of the reagent container replacement unit 126 serves as an inflow port for outside air, the outside air does not flow in due to the positive pressure of the reagent cooling box 120, and the inside of the reagent cooling box 120 can be kept clean. Although the dispensing hole 125 also serves as an inlet for outside air, the inflow of outside air can be prevented by increasing the pressure in the reagent cooling box 120. In fig. 2(a), the flow of air is indicated by white arrows. The dispensing hole 125 may be formed of a rubber pad or the like that prevents inflow of outside air although the nozzle of the reagent dispensing unit 124 passes through it.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, the reagent cooling box 120 is pressurized to a positive pressure with respect to the surroundings, and the inflow of the outside air from the surroundings of the reagent cooling box 120 is prevented, so that the reagent cooling box 120 can be kept clean. Further, since the reagent cooling chamber 120 is kept clean, contamination in the reagent cooling chamber 120 and deterioration of the reagent can be prevented, and thus the analysis accuracy of the automatic analyzer 100 can be maintained.

Example 2

In example 1, a case where air is sucked into the reagent cooling box 120 by the air supply unit 201 is described. When the top plate 126a and the bottom plate 126b of the reagent container replacement unit 126 move in the Z direction, the opening of the reagent container replacement unit 126, which is an inflow port for outside air, changes depending on the heights of the top plate 126a and the bottom plate 126 b. If the opening is opened large, the outside air easily flows in. Therefore, in the present embodiment, a case will be described in which the amount of air sucked by the air supply unit 201, that is, the amount of air supply is controlled according to the heights of the top plate 126a and the bottom plate 126 b. The entire configuration of the automatic analyzer 100 is the same as that of embodiment 1, and therefore, the description thereof is omitted. Since the structure of the reagent cooling box 120 is substantially the same as that of example 1, only the portions added to example 1 will be described additionally.

The operation of the reagent cooling box 120 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to fig. 3. Fig. 3(a) to 3(d) show the process of raising the top plate 126a and the bottom plate 126b from the lowermost layer to the uppermost layer in order to take out the reagent pack 123 from the reagent cooling chamber 120, and white arrows indicate air flows and the thickness of the white arrows indicates flow rates.

As shown in fig. 3(a), when the top plate 126a and the bottom plate 126b are positioned at the lowermost layer, the opening of the reagent container replacement part 126 is closed by the top plate 126a, and therefore the amount of air supplied by the air supply part 201 is set to the minimum value. The minimum value of the air supply amount is set based on the gap between the reagent cover 122 and the reagent disk 121, the size of the dispensing hole 125, and the like. For example, when the reagent cover 122 and the reagent disk 121 are kept airtight and a rubber pad or the like is used for the dispensing hole 125, the minimum value of the amount of supplied air may be set to zero.

As shown in fig. 3(b), when the top plate 126a and the bottom plate 126b are raised to the middle, the distance from the top plate 126a to the upper surface of the reagent cover 122 is equal to the distance from the upper surface of the reagent cover 122 to the bottom plate 126 b. That is, the inflow port from the periphery to the reagent container replacement unit 126 and the inflow port from the reagent container replacement unit 126 to the reagent disk 121 have the same area, and the opening of the reagent container replacement unit 126 is opened to the maximum, so the air supply amount of the air supply unit 201 is set to the maximum. The maximum value of the amount of air supplied is set so that the outside air does not flow into the reagent cooling box 120 even if the opening of the reagent container replacement unit 126 is maximally opened.

As shown in fig. 3(c), when the top plate 126a and the bottom plate 126b are further raised from the middle, the distance from the top plate 126a to the upper surface of the reagent cover 122 becomes longer, but the distance from the upper surface of the reagent cover 122 to the bottom plate 126b becomes shorter. That is, the inlet port from the periphery to the reagent container replacement unit 126 is larger, but the inlet port from the reagent container replacement unit 126 to the reagent disk 121 is smaller, and therefore the opening of the reagent container replacement unit 126 is smaller than that in fig. 3 (b). Therefore, the air supply amount of the air supply portion 201 is set to a value smaller than that in fig. 3 (b).

As shown in fig. 3(d), when the top plate 126a and the bottom plate 126b are positioned at the uppermost layer, the opening of the reagent container replacement part 126 is closed by the bottom plate 126b, and therefore the amount of air supplied by the air supply part 201 is set to the minimum value as in fig. 3 (a).

The operation of the reagent cooling box 120 according to the present embodiment will be described in addition with reference to fig. 4. Fig. 4 is a diagram showing a relationship between the amount of air supplied to the air supply unit 201 and the heights of the ceiling plate 126a and the bottom plate 126 b. As described with reference to fig. 3, the amount of air supplied is set to the minimum value when the ceiling plate 126a and the bottom plate 126b are positioned at the lowermost layer or the uppermost layer, and the amount of air supplied is set to the maximum value when the ceiling plate 126a and the bottom plate 126b are positioned at the middle. The amount of air supplied is increased by the height between the lowermost layer and the middle, and is decreased by the height between the middle and the uppermost layer. That is, the amount of air supplied is set according to the heights of the ceiling plate 126a and the bottom plate 126b, regardless of whether the ceiling plate 126a and the bottom plate 126b are raised or lowered. The heights of the top plate 126a and the bottom plate 126b are measured by a position sensor or the like, not shown, and transmitted to the control unit 101, and the control unit 101 controls the amount of air supplied by the air supply unit 201 based on the transmitted heights.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, the amount of air supplied to the air supply unit 201 that makes the pressure in the reagent cooling box 120 positive is controlled according to the height of the top plate 126a and the bottom plate 126b, and therefore, the inflow of outside air into the reagent cooling box 120 can be prevented, and power saving of the air supply unit 201 can be achieved. Further, the reagent cooling chamber 120 is kept clean by preventing the inflow of the outside air, and the maintenance of the analysis accuracy of the automatic analyzer 100 is performed in the same manner as in example 1.

Example 3

In example 1, a case where air is sucked into the reagent cooling box 120 by the air supply unit 201 is described. Preferably, the air sucked into the reagent cooling box 120 is cleaned without dew condensation. Therefore, in the present embodiment, a case will be described in which at least one of dehumidification, sterilization, dust removal, and temperature adjustment is performed on the air sucked by the air supply unit 201. The entire configuration of the automatic analyzer 100 is the same as that of embodiment 1, and therefore, the description thereof is omitted.

The structure of the reagent cooling box 120 of the present embodiment will be described with reference to fig. 5. In the reagent cooling box 120 of the present embodiment, in addition to the air supply unit 201, at least one of a temperature adjustment unit 501, a dehumidification unit 502, a sterilization unit 503, and a filter 504 is provided in the front of the air supply unit 201. Fig. 5 illustrates a structure in which a temperature control unit 501, a dehumidification unit 502, a sterilization unit 503, and a filter 504 are connected in series.

The temperature adjusting unit 501 is a device that adjusts the temperature of the air sucked from the air supply unit 201, and is, for example, a heater, a water cooling tube, or the like. In order to prevent condensation of the air sucked from air supply unit 201, the temperature of the air is preferably adjusted to be equal to the temperature in reagent cooling box 120. The temperature in the reagent cooling box 120 may be measured by a thermometer or the like, not shown, and transmitted to the control unit 101, and the control unit 101 may control the operation of the temperature adjustment unit 501 based on the transmitted temperature.

The dehumidifying unit 502 is a device for adjusting the humidity of the air sucked from the air supply unit 201, and includes, for example, a dehumidifier having a compressor, a container in which a dehumidifying material such as silica gel is sealed, and the like. In order to prevent condensation of the air sucked from the air supply unit 201, it is preferable to reduce the amount of water vapor contained in the air as much as possible. The humidity in the reagent cooling box 120 may be measured by a hygrometer or the like, not shown, and transmitted to the control unit 101, and the control unit 101 may control the operation of the dehumidifier 502 based on the transmitted humidity.

The sterilization unit 503 is a device for sterilizing air sucked from the air supply unit 201, and is, for example, a device for irradiating ultraviolet rays, a device for generating ozone using a photocatalyst, or the like. In order to keep the air sucked from the air supply unit 201 clean, it is preferable to reduce the amount of bacteria and mold contained in the air. The amount of bacteria and mold suspended in reagent cold box 120 may be measured by a sensor, not shown, and transmitted to control unit 101, and control unit 101 may control the operation of sterilization unit 503 based on the transmitted value. Alternatively, the control unit 101 may display the measured value of the levitation amount and issue an alarm based on the measured value of the levitation amount.

The filter 504 collects dust, bacteria, and the like contained in the air taken in from the air supply unit 201, and is, for example, gauze, nonwoven fabric, or the like. In order to keep the air sucked from the air supply unit 201 clean, it is preferable to reduce dust and bacteria contained in the air.

As described above, in the present embodiment, at least one of the temperature adjusting section 501, the dehumidifying section 502, the sterilizing section 503, and the filter 504 is provided in the front portion of the air supply section 201. According to the present embodiment, since condensation of air taken in from the air supply unit 201 can be suppressed and the reagent cooling box 120 can be cleaned in order to increase the pressure in the reagent cooling box 120 to positive pressure, the reagent cooling box 120 can be kept clean while preventing inflow of outside air into the reagent cooling box 120. Further, the reagent cooling chamber 120 is kept clean by preventing the inflow of the outside air, and the maintenance of the analysis accuracy of the automatic analyzer 100 is performed in the same manner as in example 1.

Example 4

In example 1, a case where air is sucked into the reagent cooling box 120 by the air supply unit 201 is described. The air sucked by the air supply unit 201 may affect dispensing of the reagent. Therefore, in the present embodiment, a case where the gas supply unit 201 is controlled in accordance with the operation of the reagent dispensing unit 124 will be described. The entire configuration of the automatic analyzer 100 is the same as that of embodiment 1, and therefore, the description thereof is omitted. Since the structure of the reagent cooling box 120 is substantially the same as that of example 1, only the portions added to example 1 will be described additionally.

The operation of the reagent cooling box 120 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to fig. 6. Fig. 6(a) to 6(c) show a process of moving the dispensing nozzle 124a of the reagent dispenser 124 to dispense a reagent from the reagent container 123, and white arrows indicate air flows.

As shown in fig. 6(a), while the dispensing nozzle 124a is moving in the horizontal direction, air is sucked in by the air supply unit 201, and the pressure in the reagent cooling box 120 is increased. Since the reagent cooling box 120 is pressurized to a positive pressure, air in the reagent cooling box 120 is discharged from the dispensing port 125, and thus inflow of external air from the dispensing port 125 can be prevented.

As shown in fig. 6(b), when the dispensing nozzle 124a is disposed above the dispensing orifice 125, the air supply unit 201 stops sucking air. After that, the dispensing nozzle 124a is lowered and inserted into the dispensing hole 125. The dispensing nozzle 124a is measured by detecting a probe plate provided in the reagent dispensing unit 124 by a position sensor or the like, and the control unit 101 controls the operation of the air supply unit 201 based on the measured dispensing nozzle 124a position. Alternatively, control unit 101 may control the operation of air supply unit 201 based on a previously planned operation timing.

As shown in fig. 6(c), while the dispensing nozzle 124a is inserted into the reagent container 123 through the dispensing orifice 125, the air supply unit 201 stops sucking air. By stopping the air supply unit 201, the flow of air in the reagent cooling box 120 is suppressed, and the accuracy of dispensing the reagent can be prevented from deteriorating.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, since the air supply unit 201 is controlled in accordance with the operation of the reagent dispensing unit 124, the inflow of the external air into the reagent cooling box 120 can be prevented, and the dispensing accuracy of the reagent is not adversely affected. Further, the reagent cooling chamber 120 is kept clean by preventing the inflow of the outside air, and the maintenance of the analysis accuracy of the automatic analyzer 100 is performed in the same manner as in example 1.

Example 5

In example 1, a case where air is sucked into the reagent cooling box 120 by the air supply unit 201 is described. When the lid of the reagent container 123 is opened, if dust or the like is mixed into the reagent cooling box 120, the reagent may be deteriorated. Therefore, in the present embodiment, a case will be described in which the operation of the gas supply unit 201 is controlled in accordance with the opening and closing of the lid of the reagent container 123. The entire configuration of the automatic analyzer 100 is the same as that of embodiment 1, and therefore, the description thereof is omitted. Since the structure of the reagent cooling box 120 is substantially the same as that of example 1, only the portions added to example 1 will be described additionally.

The operation of the reagent cooling box 120 of the present embodiment will be described with reference to fig. 7. Fig. 7(a) shows a state where the lid 123a of the reagent container 123 is closed, fig. 7(b) shows a state where the lid 123a is opened, and white arrows indicate air flows.

As shown in fig. 7(a), the operation of the gas supply unit 201 is stopped while the lid 123a is closed. The opening and closing of the lid 123a is detected by a sensor, not shown, and transmitted to the control unit 101, and the control unit 101 controls the operation of the air supply unit 201 according to the opening and closing of the lid 123 a. Alternatively, the control unit 101 may control the operation of the air supply unit 201 based on a previously planned operation timing. While the lid 123a is closed, dust and the like do not enter the reagent container 123.

As shown in fig. 7(b), while the lid 123a is open, the gas supply portion 201 is operated. Since air is sucked into the reagent cooling box 120 and discharged from the dispensing well 125 by the operation of the air supply unit 201, inflow of external air from the dispensing well 125 can be prevented.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, since the air supply portion 201 is controlled according to the opening and closing of the lid 123a of the reagent container 123, it is possible to prevent the contamination of dust and the like into the reagent container 123 and to prevent the reagent from deteriorating. By preventing the deterioration of the reagent, the analysis accuracy of the automatic analyzer 100 can be maintained.

Example 6

In example 1, a case where air is sucked into the reagent cooling box 120 by the air supply unit 201 is described. If the bacteria are mixed into the reagent cooling box 120, the reagent may be deteriorated. Therefore, in the present embodiment, a case where sterilization is performed in the reagent cooling box 120 will be described. The entire configuration of the automatic analyzer 100 is the same as that of embodiment 1, and therefore, the description thereof is omitted.

The structure of the reagent cooling box 120 of the present embodiment will be described with reference to fig. 8. The reagent cooling box 120 of the present embodiment includes a sterilization unit 503. The sterilization unit 503 is a device for sterilizing the air sucked from the air supply unit 201, as in example 3, and is, for example, a device for irradiating ultraviolet rays, a device for generating ozone using a photocatalyst, or the like. The sterilization unit 503 may operate according to the amount of bacteria and mold suspended in the reagent refrigerator 120, or may operate periodically. In addition, in order to prevent deterioration of the reagent due to ultraviolet rays or ozone during the operation of the sterilization unit 503, it is desirable that the lid 123a of the reagent container 123 be closed.

In the case of a device for irradiating ultraviolet rays to the sterilization part 503, the sterilization part 503 may be disposed on the reagent disk 121, and the sterilization part 503 may be operated as the reagent disk 121 rotates. Since the sterilization unit 503 is operated in accordance with the rotation of the reagent disk 121, ultraviolet rays can be irradiated over a wide range, and thus the sterilization effect can be improved.

When the sterilization unit 503 is a device for generating ozone, the sterilization unit 503 may be disposed outside the reagent cooling box 120, and an ozone introduction path for introducing ozone may be provided between the sterilization unit 503 and the reagent cooling box 120.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, since the air sucked by the air supply unit 201 for making the pressure in the reagent cooling box 120 positive is sterilized, the inflow of the outside air into the reagent cooling box 120 can be prevented, and the reagent cooling box 120 can be kept clean. Further, the reagent cooling chamber 120 is kept clean by preventing the inflow of the outside air, and the maintenance of the analysis accuracy of the automatic analyzer 100 is performed in the same manner as in example 1.

Example 7

In example 1, a case where air is sucked by the air supply unit 201 to increase the pressure in the reagent cooling box 120 to a positive pressure is described. The positive pressure of the reagent cooling box 120 is not limited to the suction of air by the air supply unit 201. In the present embodiment, a case will be described in which the ambient pressure of the reagent cooling box 120 is reduced to a negative pressure, and the pressure in the reagent cooling box 120 is increased to a positive pressure relative to the ambient pressure. The entire configuration of the automatic analyzer 100 is the same as that of embodiment 1, and therefore, the description thereof is omitted.

The structure of the reagent cooling box 120 of the present embodiment will be described with reference to fig. 9. In the present embodiment, a negative pressure chamber 901 and an exhaust portion 902 are provided around the reagent cooling box 120, instead of the air supply portion 201 of embodiment 1.

The negative pressure chamber 901 is a chamber that covers the reagent cooling box 120, and is airtight to the periphery of the negative pressure chamber 901.

The exhaust portion 902 is a device for exhausting air from the negative pressure chamber 901, and is, for example, a blower or the like. By discharging air from the negative pressure chamber 901 through the exhaust portion 902, the space around the reagent cooling box 120, that is, between the negative pressure chamber 901 and the reagent cooling box 120 in the reagent cooling box 120 is positively pressurized, and inflow of external air from the periphery of the reagent cooling box 120 can be prevented.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, the air is discharged from the negative pressure chamber 901 provided around the reagent cooling box 120 through the air discharge portion 902, and the reagent cooling box 120 is pressurized to the positive pressure with respect to the surroundings, so that the inflow of the external air into the reagent cooling box 120 can be prevented. Further, the reagent cooling chamber 120 is kept clean by preventing the inflow of the outside air, and the maintenance of the analysis accuracy of the automatic analyzer 100 is performed in the same manner as in example 1.

Example 8

In example 1, the case where the reagent cooling chamber 120 is kept clean by increasing the pressure in the reagent cooling chamber 120 will be described. In order to keep the reagent cooling chamber 120 clean, it is preferable to keep the reagent container 123 put into the reagent cooling chamber 120 clean. Therefore, in the present embodiment, a case will be described where the reagent container 123 is cleaned before the reagent container 123 is put into the reagent cooling box 120. The entire configuration of the automatic analyzer 100 is the same as that of embodiment 1, and therefore, the description thereof is omitted.

The structure of the reagent cooling box 120 of the present embodiment will be described with reference to fig. 10. Fig. 10(a) is a plan view of the reagent cooling box 120 of the present embodiment, and fig. 10(b) is a cross-sectional view of the dotted line in fig. 10 (a). In fig. 10(a), the arrangement of the reagent container 123 in the reagent cooling chamber 120 is shown. In addition, white arrows in fig. 10(b) indicate air flows.

The reagent cooling box 120 of the present embodiment includes a removing unit 1001 in addition to the reagent disk 121, the reagent cover 122, and the reagent container replacing unit 126. The reagent disk 121, the reagent cover 122, and the reagent container replacement unit 126 have the same structure as in embodiment 1, and therefore, descriptions thereof are omitted.

The removing unit 1001 is a device for removing dust and bacteria attached to the reagent container 123 put into the reagent cooling box 120, and is, for example, a device for showering the reagent container 123 with air. The removing unit 1001 is disposed adjacent to the upper layer of the reagent container replacement unit 126.

When a new reagent container 123 is disposed on the uppermost layer of the reagent container replacement unit 126, the removal unit 1001 performs an air shower of the reagent container 123 to blow off dust and bacteria attached to the reagent container 123. That is, dust and germs attached to the reagent container 123 are removed by the air shower performed by the removing unit 1001, and the cleaned reagent container 123 is put into the reagent cooling box 120 via the reagent container replacing unit 126. The sterilization unit 503 described in embodiment 3 may be provided in place of the removal unit 1001, in front of the removal unit 1001, or in parallel with the removal unit 1001.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, since the reagent container 123 from which dust and bacteria have been removed is put into the reagent cooling box 120, the reagent cooling box 120 can be kept clean. Further, by keeping the reagent cooling chamber 120 clean, the analysis accuracy of the automatic analyzer 100 can be maintained. The reagent cooling box 120 of the present embodiment may be provided with the air supply unit 201 of embodiment 1 or the negative pressure chamber 901 and the air exhaust unit 902 of embodiment 7, thereby achieving a positive pressure in the reagent cooling box 120.

Eight embodiments of the automatic analyzer of the present invention are described. The automatic analyzer of the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and the components may be modified and embodied without departing from the scope of the invention. Further, a plurality of constituent elements disclosed in the above embodiments may be appropriately combined. Further, some of the components may be deleted from all the components shown in the above embodiments.

Description of the symbols

100-automatic analyzer, 101-control unit, 102-analysis unit, 103-communication line, 110-sample transport path, 111-sample container, 112-sample dispensing unit, 113-dispensing head attachment/detachment unit, 114-transport unit, 115-mounting unit, 116-dispensing head, 117-reaction container, 120-reagent cooling box, 121-reagent disk, 122-reagent cover, 123-reagent container, 123 a-cover, 124-reagent dispensing unit, 124 a-dispensing nozzle, 125-dispensing hole, 126-reagent container replacement unit, 126 a-top plate, 126 b-bottom plate, 130-insulation box, 140-reaction liquid measurement unit, 141-reaction liquid dispensing unit, 201-gas supply unit, 501-temperature adjustment unit, 502-dehumidification unit, 503-sterilization unit, 504-filter, 901-negative pressure chamber, 902-exhaust unit, 1001-removal unit.

The claims (modification according to treaty clause 19)

(after modification)

An automatic analyzer for analyzing a sample, the automatic analyzer comprising:

a reagent cooling box for storing a reagent container containing a reagent that reacts with the sample at a predetermined temperature;

a reagent container replacement unit having an opening for inserting and removing the reagent container into and from the reagent cooling box, the opening being opened and closed to replace the reagent container; and

a positive pressure section for positively pressurizing the reagent cooling box with respect to the periphery of the reagent cooling box when the opening is opened,

the positive pressure portion makes the periphery of the reagent cooling box become negative pressure relative to the reagent cooling box.

2. The automatic analysis device according to claim 1,

the positive pressure part is provided with an air supply part for taking air into the reagent cold-keeping box.

3. The automatic analysis device according to claim 2,

the air supply part controls the air supply amount according to the opening condition of the opening.

4. The automatic analysis device according to claim 2,

the air supply unit performs at least one of dehumidification, sterilization, dust removal, and temperature adjustment on the taken air.

5. The automatic analysis device according to claim 2,

further comprising a reagent dispensing unit for dispensing the reagent from the reagent container,

the gas supply unit is controlled based on the operation of the reagent dispensing unit.

6. The automatic analysis device according to claim 2,

the gas supply unit is controlled based on opening and closing of a lid of the reagent container.

7. The automatic analysis device according to claim 1,

and a sterilization unit for sterilizing the air in the reagent refrigerator.

(deletion)

9. The automatic analysis device according to claim 1,

and a removing unit which is adjacent to the reagent container replacing unit and removes dust and bacteria attached to the reagent container.

(after modification)

An automatic analyzer for analyzing a sample, the automatic analyzer being characterized in that,

the disclosed device is provided with:

a reagent cooling box for storing a reagent container containing a reagent that reacts with the sample at a predetermined temperature;

a reagent container replacement unit having an opening for inserting and removing the reagent container into and from the reagent cooling box, the opening being opened and closed to replace the reagent container;

a removing unit which is adjacent to the reagent container replacing unit and removes dust or bacteria attached to the reagent container; and

and a positive pressure section for making the periphery of the reagent cooling box negative with respect to the reagent cooling box.

(addition)

The automatic analysis device according to claim 10,

the positive pressure part is provided with an air supply part for sucking air into the reagent cold insulation box.

(addition)

The automatic analysis device according to claim 11,

the air supply part controls the air supply amount according to the opening condition of the opening.

(addition)

The automatic analysis device according to claim 11,

the air supply unit performs at least one of dehumidification, sterilization, dust removal, and temperature adjustment on the sucked air.

(addition)

The automatic analysis device according to claim 11,

further comprising a reagent dispensing unit for dispensing the reagent from the reagent container,

the gas supply unit is controlled based on the operation of the reagent dispensing unit.

(addition)

The automatic analysis device according to claim 11,

the gas supply unit is controlled based on opening and closing of the lid of the reagent container.

(addition)

The automatic analysis device according to claim 10,

and a sterilization unit for sterilizing the air in the reagent refrigerator.

Statement or declaration (modification according to treaty clause 19)

1. Claim 1 and claim 10 are modified based on the description of claim 8.

2. Claim 8 is deleted.

3. Claims 11 to 16 are appended as a dependent item of claim 10.