JP5220557B2 - Sample processing system and sample container sorting apparatus - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a sample processing system for transporting a sample to a sample measuring unit for measuring a sample and a sample container sorting apparatus for sorting sample containers.

  Conventionally, the apparatus includes a plurality of sample processing apparatuses such as a sample analyzer and a smear preparation apparatus, and a transport apparatus that transports a sample to be supplied to the sample processing apparatus. The transport apparatus transports the sample to each sample processing apparatus. A sample processing system that processes a transported sample with a sample processing apparatus is known.

Patent Document 1 discloses a rack supply area that supplies a rack that contains a sample, a transport line that transports a rack from the rack supply area, a rack storage unit that stores a rack transported through the transport line, A sample processing system including a plurality of sample processing devices arranged along a transport line is disclosed. The sample processing system described in Patent Document 1 includes an identification information reading device that reads identification information attached to a sample on a rack before being transported to a plurality of sample processing devices, and identification by the identification information reading device. A control unit that determines whether information can be identified, a specific rack recovery area that can recover racks that have not been transported to a plurality of sample processing apparatuses, and a rack that cannot be identified by determination by the control unit And a rack transfer device for transferring to the rack.
JP-A-11-304812

  However, in the analysis processing system described in Patent Document 1, measurement cannot be performed because the shape of the sample container is not compatible with the sample measurement of the system, or the amount of the sample is small, or the blood sample is coagulated. Even if a sample container or the like for storing a sample is stored in the rack, the rack is supplied to the sample processing apparatus. When such a sample container is supplied to the sample processing apparatus, the operation of the sample processing apparatus stops, which causes a problem that the operation of the entire system stops.

The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances, and its main purpose is to sort a sample container that should be used for sample measurement and a sample container that should not be used for sample measurement, and to prevent the operation of the sample processing system from stopping. Specimen processing that can be performed immediately after it has been determined that it should not be used for measurement, and can be used for measurement quickly, improving the processing efficiency of the system It is to provide a system and a specimen container sorting device.

In order to solve the above-described problems, a sample processing system according to one aspect of the present invention includes a sample container input unit that receives input of a sample container containing a sample, and the shape of the sample container received by the sample container input unit Alternatively, detection means for detecting the state of the sample stored in the sample container, a sample measuring unit for measuring the sample stored in the sample container , a transport unit for transporting the sample container, and a sample container storing the sample container A sample processing system comprising: a control unit; and a control unit configured to determine whether the sample container is a sample container to be supplied to the sample measurement unit based on a detection result of the detection unit. determine the discriminated sample container to be sample container to be supplied to the front Symbol sample measuring section and conveyed to the sample measuring section, it is not determined to be the specimen container to be supplied to the front Symbol sample measuring section Front of sample container As conveyed toward the specimen container accommodating unit, and controls the transport unit, the specimen processing system includes a storage unit that stores information on the determined specimen container is not the specimen container to be supplied to the sample measuring section Display means, and the control means displays information on the sample container determined to be not to be supplied to the sample measurement section based on the information stored in the storage section. The sample processing system further includes a deletion instruction receiving unit that receives an instruction to delete information related to the sample container displayed by the display unit, and the control unit includes the deletion unit When the instruction receiving unit receives an instruction to delete information about the sample container, the information about the sample container is deleted from the storage unit. The sample processing system further includes a sample container re-insertion unit that accepts input of a sample container corresponding to information on the sample container deleted from the storage unit from a user, and the control means includes the sample container It is configured to control the transport unit so that the sample container received by the re-insertion unit is transported toward the sample measurement unit without passing through the detection means .

In this aspect, the transport unit is configured to transport a sample rack that can store a plurality of sample containers, and the sample container storage unit is configured to store a sample rack, and the detection The means is configured to detect the shape of the sample container or the state of the sample stored in the sample container for each sample container stored in the sample rack, and the control means is provided in the sample container storage unit. in the contained sample rack, which is preferably configured to control the display means to identifiable displaying the discriminated sample container is not the specimen container to be supplied to the sample measuring section.

Further, in the above aspect, the sample container storage unit is configured to be capable of storing a plurality of sample racks, the sample processing system further includes an input unit, and the control means is provided in the sample container storage unit. the contained sample rack to selectably displays the rack identification information that identifies and controls the display unit, upon receiving a selection by the input section of the rack identifying information, a rack specific information selected The display unit is configured to control the display unit so that a sample container determined not to be supplied to the sample measurement unit among the sample containers stored in the corresponding sample rack can be specified. it is preferable to have.

In the above embodiment, the sample container is turned portion are configured to accept the insertion of the sample rack having a sample rack identification information recording unit which records the sample rack identification information for identifying the sample rack, the sample processing system, the sample rack identification information recording unit of the sample rack is put into the sample container feeding section further includes a reading unit for reading the sample rack identification information of the sample rack, the detection means, wherein the sample container feeding section Configured to detect the shape of the sample container accommodated in the sample rack placed in the container or the state of the sample accommodated in the sample container, and the control means is read by the reading unit, It is configured to control the display means to selectably display the sample rack identification information of the sample rack accommodated in the specimen container accommodating unit Door is preferable.

In the above aspect, the control means is configured to determine whether or not the sample container is compatible with the sample measurement unit based on a detection result of the shape of the sample container of the detection means. it is preferable to have.

In the above aspect, the detection means is configured to detect coagulation of the blood sample stored in the sample container, and the control means has not detected coagulation of the blood sample by the detection means. It is determined that the sample container is a sample container to be supplied to the sample measurement unit, and the sample container in which coagulation of the blood sample is detected by the detection unit is determined not to be a sample container to be supplied to the sample measurement unit. It is preferable that it is comprised .

Further, in the above aspect, the detection means is configured to detect the amount of the sample stored in the sample container, and the control means is configured such that the amount of the blood sample detected by the detection means is a predetermined amount. It is determined that the above sample container is a sample container to be supplied to the sample measurement unit, and a sample container whose amount of blood sample detected by the detection means is less than a predetermined amount should be supplied to the sample measurement unit It is preferable to be configured to discriminate that it is not a sample container .

In the above aspect, it is preferable that the sample container re-insertion unit is provided in the vicinity of the sample container storage unit on a transport path from the detection unit toward the sample measurement unit .

Further, in the above aspect, it is preferable that the sample container storage portion is provided in the vicinity of the sample container input portion .

The sample container sorting device according to one aspect of the present invention is configured to receive a sample container containing a sample container, and to store the sample container in the shape of the sample container received by the sample container inserting unit or the sample container. A sample container sorting apparatus comprising: a detection unit that detects a state of a sample; a transport unit that transports a sample container; a sample container storage unit that stores a sample container that stores a sample; and a control unit. means, based on a detection result of said detecting means, said sample container is determined whether or not a sample container to be supplied to the sample measuring section for measuring a specimen, the specimen containers to be supplied to the sample measuring section the determination sample container and is sent to the destination to be supplied to the sample measuring section, and sends the determined sample container is not the specimen container to be supplied to the sample measuring section to the specimen container accommodating unit like It controls the transport unit, the sample container sorting apparatus further includes a storage unit that stores information on the determined specimen container is not the specimen container to be supplied to the sample measuring section, and a display unit, wherein the control The means is configured to display, on the display means, information related to a sample container determined not to be a sample container to be supplied to the sample measurement unit based on information stored in the storage unit, The sample container sorting device further includes a deletion instruction receiving unit that receives an instruction to delete the information about the sample container displayed by the display unit, and the control unit deletes the information about the sample container by the deletion instruction receiving unit. When the instruction is received, the information on the sample container is deleted from the storage unit. Further includes a sample container re-insertion unit that receives from the user the input of the sample container corresponding to the information about the sample container deleted from the storage unit, and the control means receives the sample container received by the sample container re-input unit Is configured to control the transport unit so as to be sent to the destination without passing through the detection means .

According to the sample processing system and the sample container sorting apparatus according to the present invention, it is possible to sort a sample that should be used for sample measurement and a sample that should not be used for sample measurement, and as a result, prevent the sample processing system from stopping operation. it Ri do possible, also, once it is determined that not to be Kyosu the measurement, the sample container of the sample became measurable by operation of the user by turning the specimen container re-putting section, the specimen Measurement can be performed without detecting the shape of the container or the state of the sample contained in the sample container, and the processing efficiency of the system can be improved.

  Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

  The present embodiment is a sample processing system that sorts a sample that should be used for sample measurement and a sample that should not be used for sample measurement.

[Configuration of specimen processing system]
FIG. 1 is a schematic plan view showing the overall configuration of the sample processing system according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the sample processing system 1 includes a sample input device 2, a sample transport device 3, 301, a sample storage device 4, a blood cell analyzer 5, a smear sample preparation device 6, and a system control device 8. And. The sample processing system 1 according to the present embodiment is connected to the host computer 9 through a communication network so as to be communicable.

<Configuration of specimen loading apparatus 2>
The sample input device 2 includes a sample input unit 21, a sample check unit 22, and a sample delivery unit 23. The sample loading device 2 can place a plurality of sample containers stored in a sample rack. The sample loading apparatus 2 includes a control unit 2a composed of a CPU and a memory. The control unit 2a can control the operation mechanisms of the sample loading unit 21, the sample check unit 22, and the sample delivery unit 23. Further, the sample insertion device 2 is connected to the system control device 8 through a communication network, and data communication with the system control device 8 is possible.

  FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the external appearance of the sample container, and FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing the external appearance of the sample rack. As shown in FIG. 2, the sample container T has a tubular shape, and an upper end is opened. A blood sample collected from the patient is housed inside, and the opening at the upper end is sealed by a lid CP. The specimen container T is made of translucent glass or synthetic resin, and an internal blood specimen can be visually recognized. A barcode label BL1 is attached to the side surface of the sample container T. A barcode indicating the sample ID is printed on the barcode label BL1. The sample rack L can hold ten sample containers T side by side. In the sample rack L, each sample container T is held in a vertical state (standing position). A barcode label BL2 is attached to the side surface of the sample rack L. A barcode indicating the rack ID is printed on the barcode label BL2.

  FIG. 4 is a plan view showing the configuration of the specimen loading unit 21. As shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 4, the sample loading unit 21 has a concave rack mounting portion 211 for mounting the sample rack L in which the sample container T is accommodated. The rack mounting unit 211 has a rectangular shape, and can mount a plurality of sample racks L at the same time. The sample rack L is placed on the rack placement unit 211 so that the sample containers T are arranged in the horizontal direction. The rack mounting portion 211 is provided with sensors 212 and 213 for detecting the sample rack L, and an engaging portion 211a for transferring the sample rack L. The sensors 212 and 213 are optical sensors, the sensor 212 includes a light emitting unit 212a and a light receiving unit 212b, and the sensor 213 includes a light emitting unit 213a and a light receiving unit 213b. The light emitting unit 212 a is disposed at the position on the left front side of the rack mounting unit 211, and the light receiving unit 212 b is disposed at the center on the right side of the rack mounting unit 211. In addition, the light emitting unit 213 a is disposed at the left rear position of the rack mounting unit 211, and the light receiving unit 213 b is disposed at the right center position of the rack mounting unit 211. The light emitting unit 212a is disposed so as to emit light toward the right diagonally rear, and the light receiving unit 212b is disposed so as to receive the light across the rack mounting unit 211. The light emitting unit 213a is arranged to emit light toward the right front side, and the light receiving unit 213b is arranged to receive the light across the rack mounting unit 211. Therefore, the sample rack L placed on the rack placing portion 211 blocks the light emitted from the light emitting portion 212a or 213a, and the light receiving level of the light receiving portion 212b or 213b is lowered. It is detected by the sensor 212 or 213. The sample rack L detected by the rack sensors 212 and 213 is engaged with the engaging portion 211a, and moved in the front-rear direction while the engaging portion 211a is engaged with the sample rack L, so that the rack mounting portion 211 is moved. The sample rack L is transferred above.

  The sample insertion unit 21 includes a barcode reading unit 21 a on the back side of the rack mounting unit 211. The barcode reading unit 21a reads the sample barcode reader 21b that simultaneously reads the sample barcodes of the plurality of sample containers T accommodated in the sample rack L, and the rack barcode reader that reads the rack barcode of the sample rack L. 21c. In addition, the barcode reading unit 21a includes a horizontal rotation mechanism 21d that simultaneously rotates a plurality of sample containers T horizontally immediately above the innermost barcode reading position in the rack mounting unit 211. The sample rack L loaded in the rack mounting unit 211 is transported on the rack mounting unit 211 from the front side to the back side, that is, in the rear direction, and reaches the barcode reading position. Thereafter, the sample ID is read from the barcode label BL1 by the sample barcode reader 21b while the sample container T accommodated in the sample rack L is horizontally rotated by the horizontal rotation mechanism 21d. Further, the rack ID is read from the barcode label BL2 of the sample rack L by the rack barcode reader 21c. The read rack ID and sample ID are transmitted to the system control device 8.

  When a reading failure of the sample barcode occurs, the control unit 2a of the sample loading device 2 transmits sample barcode reading error information to the system control device 8 in association with the holding position of the sample. When a rack barcode reading failure occurs, the control unit 2a transmits a rack sequential number assigned to the input sample rack L in order to the system control device 8 instead of the rack ID. .

  A CCD camera 21e for detecting the shape of the specimen container is provided in front of the barcode reading position of the specimen insertion unit 21. A white LED 21f is disposed at a predetermined position with respect to the camera 21e, and the sample container T is illuminated by the white LED 21f. The white LED 21f emits light toward the sample rack L at the barcode reading position, and the reflected light is disposed at a position and orientation where the reflected light does not directly enter the camera 21e. Thereby, the reflected light does not directly hit the camera 21e, and so-called whiteout due to overexposure can be prevented.

  The CCD camera 21e and the white LED 21f can be moved in the vertical direction by a vertical drive mechanism (not shown). The CCD camera 21e and the white LED 21f are raised by the vertical drive mechanism to a position where the sample rack L is not interfered with the transfer of the sample rack L when the sample rack L is transferred on the rack mounting portion 211. When the sample rack L is at the barcode reading position, the CCD camera 21e and the white LED 21f are lowered until they are positioned in front of the sample rack L, and the entire sample rack L is imaged by the CCD camera 21e.

  Further, the sample insertion unit 21 is arranged on the right side of the sample check unit 22 (see FIG. 1). The sample rack L in which the rack barcode and the sample barcode are read at the barcode reading position is carried out to the sample check unit 22 from a rack delivery port 215 provided on the left side of the barcode reading position.

  In addition, as shown in FIG. 4, the sample input unit 21 is provided with an operation panel 214. The user can operate the operation panel 214 to give an analysis start instruction or an analysis end instruction to the sample processing system 1.

  FIG. 5 is a plan view showing the configuration of the sample check unit 22. As shown in FIG. 5, the sample check unit 22 includes a rack housing portion 221 having a rectangular shape in plan view and capable of housing a plurality of sample racks L. The sample check unit 22 detects the presence / absence of the handy barcode reader 222c used manually by the user, the horizontal rotation mechanism 223 for horizontally rotating the sample container T, and the barcode label BL1 of the sample container T. An optical sensor 223a, a sample container tilting mechanism 224 that takes out and tilts the sample container T from the sample rack L, two cameras 225a and 225b that image the sample container T, and a liquid crystal display unit 227 are provided.

  The rack accommodating portion 221 is a concave portion that has a rectangular shape in plan view. A rack introduction port 221 a for introducing the sample rack L from the sample insertion unit 21 is provided on the right side wall portion at the back end of the rack housing portion 221. A rack delivery port 221 b for delivering the sample rack L to the sample delivery unit 23 is provided on the left side wall portion at the back end of the rack housing portion 221. A transport belt 228 for transporting the sample rack L is provided at a portion between the rack inlet 221a and the rack outlet 221b. The transport belt 228 is an annular belt, and is driven by a stepping motor (not shown), so that the sample rack L placed on the transport belt 228 is transported in the left direction in the figure. Further, on the further back side of the conveyor belt 228, a rack delivery section 229 is provided. The rack delivery section 229 is driven by a stepping motor (not shown) or the like, and can push the sample rack L on the conveyor belt 228 forward. The sample rack L delivered to the front side by the rack delivery unit 229 is stored in the rack accommodating unit 221.

  FIG. 6 is a front view schematically showing a part of the configuration of the sample check unit 22. As shown in FIG. 6, the horizontal rotation mechanism 223 has a contact portion 223d that contacts the upper end of the sample container T on the sample rack L, and this contact portion 223d can be rotated in the horizontal direction by a motor. It is configured. The sample container T rotates horizontally inside the sample rack L when the contact portion 223 d rotates horizontally in a state where the contact portion 223 d is in contact with the lid CP of the sample container T. Further, an optical sensor 223a is arranged in front of the horizontal rotation mechanism 223. The optical sensor 223a includes a light emitting element 223b and a light receiving element 223c. Light is emitted from the light emitting element 223b to the sample container T while the sample container T is horizontally rotated by the horizontal rotation mechanism 223, and the reflected light is received by the light receiving element 223c. When a barcode label is present on the light reflecting surface of the light emitting element 223b, the light receiving level of the light receiving element 223c exceeds a predetermined value, and the light is reflected on the surface reflecting the light of the light emitting element 223b. When no code label is present, the light reception level is equal to or less than the predetermined value. Therefore, the control unit 2a checks the light receiving level of the light receiving element 223c of the optical sensor 223a while horizontally rotating the sample container T, and the horizontal rotating mechanism 223 moves horizontally at a position where the light receiving level is equal to or less than the predetermined value. Stop. Thereby, the angle of the sample container T is adjusted so that the surface on which the barcode label BL1 does not exist faces forward.

  The optical sensor 223a can be moved in the vertical direction by a vertical drive mechanism (not shown). The optical sensor 223a is disposed on the front side of the sample rack L when the sample rack L is on the transport path of the rack housing portion 221. When the sample rack L is transferred to the front of the rack housing portion 221, the optical sensor 223a is raised by the vertical drive mechanism to a position where it does not interfere with the transfer of the sample rack L.

  On the transport path of the rack accommodating portion 221, the sample rack L is intermittently transferred to the left by a pitch feed in which the interval between adjacent sample containers T is 1 pitch. The sample container tilting mechanism 224 described above is provided at a position on the left side of the horizontal rotation mechanism 223 by a predetermined pitch. FIG. 7 is a side view showing a schematic configuration of the specimen container tilting mechanism 224. The sample container tilting mechanism 224 includes a grip 224a that grips the vicinity of the upper end of the sample container from the left and right sides, a motor 224b, and a belt 224c that connects the rotation shaft of the motor 224b and the grip 224a, and the rotation of the motor 224b. Thus, it is possible to move the grip 224a in the vertical direction. In addition, the grip portion 224a is connected to the rotation shaft of the motor 224d, and the grip portion 224a can rotate around the central axis extending in the front-rear direction by the rotation operation of the motor 224d.

  The sample container T rotated by the horizontal rotation mechanism 223 until the barcode label BL1 does not exist on the front surface reaches the position of the sample container tilting mechanism 224 as the sample rack L is moved leftward. Here, the gripping portion 224a of the specimen container tilting mechanism 224 grips the vicinity of the upper end of the specimen container T, and is lifted in that state, whereby the specimen container T is taken out from the sample rack L. When the sample container T completely detaches from the sample rack L and reaches the first imaging position 224e, the ascending operation of the gripper 224a is stopped. A camera 225a is disposed in front of the sample container T at the first imaging position 224e. A white LED 225c is disposed at a predetermined position with respect to the camera 225a, and the sample container T is illuminated by the white LED 225c.

  FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram for explaining the positional relationship between the camera 225a, the white LED 225c, and the sample container T and the traveling direction of the light emitted from the white LED. As shown in FIG. 8, the white LED 225c emits light toward the sample container T at the first imaging position 224e, and the reflected light of the sample container T is directly applied to the camera 225a located in front of the sample container T. It is arranged at a position and orientation not incident. Thereby, the reflected light does not directly hit the camera 225a, and so-called whiteout due to overexposure can be prevented.

  The sample container T grasped at the first imaging position 224e by the grasping unit 224a is imaged by the camera 225a in the standing state (vertical state), and the captured image data obtained thereby is transmitted to the system control device 8. The Thereafter, the gripper 224a is vertically rotated by the motor 224d, and thereby the sample container T is tilted. As shown by a two-dot chain line in FIG. 6, the grip 224a is rotated by a predetermined angle until the sample container T reaches the second imaging position 224f where the bottom of the sample container T is positioned above the lid CP. . A camera 225b (see FIG. 5) is disposed in front of the sample container T at the second imaging position 224f. A white LED 225d (see FIG. 5) is disposed at a predetermined position with respect to the camera 225b, and the sample container T is illuminated by the white LED 225d. The relative positional relationship between the white LED 225d and the camera 225b is the same as the relative positional relationship between the white LED 225c and the camera 225a. That is, the white LED 225d emits light toward the sample container T at the second imaging position 224f, and the reflected light from the sample container T does not directly enter the camera 225b positioned in front of the sample container T. Is arranged.

  The sample container T gripped at the second imaging position 224f by the gripper 224a is captured by the camera 225a while being tilted as described above, and captured image data obtained thereby is transmitted to the system control device 8. The The sample rack L for which all of the sample containers T have been imaged is sent out from the rack outlet 221b by the transport belt 228.

  The barcode reader 222c includes a light emitting unit and a light receiving unit (line sensor) (not shown), and is connected to the main body of the sample check unit 22 by a flexible cable for transmitting an electrical signal. The barcode reader 222c is used when a user manually reads a barcode that cannot be read by the barcode reader 21a again.

  The sample delivery unit 23 arranged on the left side of the sample check unit 22 includes a rack re-insertion unit 231 on which a plurality of sample racks L are placed (see FIG. 1). The rack re-insertion unit 231 has a rectangular parallelepiped shape in plan view like the rack placement unit 211 of the sample insertion unit 21. The right side wall portion on the back side of the rack re-insertion portion 231 is missing, and a rack inlet is formed. The sample rack L is introduced from the sample check unit 22 to the sample delivery unit 23 through the rack introduction port. Further, the left wall portion on the front side (front side) of the rack re-input portion 231 of the sample delivery unit 23 is also missing, and this portion is a rack delivery port. The sample rack L introduced from the rack inlet is transferred forward by the rack re-insertion unit 231 and, after reaching the foremost position, is sent leftward from the rack outlet. The sample delivery unit 23 is provided with a barcode reader 23a for reading a rack barcode, and the barcode ID of the sample rack L transported through the rack re-insertion unit 231 is read out by the barcode reader, and the subsequent stage. Before unloading the sample rack L to the sample transport apparatus 3, unload request data including the rack ID is transmitted to the system control apparatus 8.

<Configuration of specimen transport device 3>
Next, the configuration of the sample transport device 3 will be described. As shown in FIG. 1, the sample processing system 1 includes three sample transport apparatuses 3. In front of the three measurement units 51, 51, 51 of the blood cell analyzer 5, sample transport devices 3, 3, 3 are arranged separately. Adjacent sample transport apparatuses 3 and 3 are connected to each other, and the sample rack L can be delivered. Further, the rightmost sample transport device 3 is connected to the sample loading device 2 described above, and the sample rack L carried out from the sample loading device 2 can be introduced. The leftmost sample transport device 3 is connected to the sample transport device 301, and the sample rack L can be transported to the sample transport device 301.

  FIG. 9 is a plan view showing the configuration of the sample transport device 3. As shown in FIG. 9, the sample transport apparatus 3 includes a transport mechanism 31 that transports a sample and a control unit 32 that controls the transport mechanism 31. The transport mechanism 31 includes a pre-analysis rack holding unit 33 that can temporarily hold a plurality of sample racks L that hold a sample container T that holds a sample before analysis, and a measurement unit 51 to store the sample. The post-analysis rack holder 34 that can temporarily hold a plurality of sample racks L holding the aspirated specimen container T, and the sample rack L in the figure in order to supply the specimen to the measurement unit 51 A rack transfer unit 35 that moves the sample rack L received from the pre-analysis rack holding unit 33 to the post-analysis rack holding unit 34 and a device upstream of the transfer (the sample input device 2 or the sample transfer). The sample rack L is carried in from the apparatus 3), and the sample stored in the sample rack L is not supplied to the measurement unit 51, and the apparatus (sample transport apparatus 3) on the downstream side of the transport And a rack transport section 321 for unloading into the specimen transport apparatus 301) the sample rack L.

  The pre-analysis rack holding unit 33 has a quadrangular shape in plan view, and its width is slightly larger than the width of the sample rack L. The pre-analysis rack holder 33 is formed one step lower than the surrounding surface, and the pre-analysis sample rack L is placed on the upper surface thereof. The pre-analysis rack holding unit 33 is connected to the rack transport unit 321, and the sample rack L is sent from the rack transport unit 321 by a rack delivery unit 322 described later. A rack sensor 37 is attached in the vicinity of the pre-analysis rack holding portion 33, and a rack detection position 33 a at which the sample rack L is detected by the rack sensor 37 is provided on the pre-analysis rack holding portion 33. . The rack sensor 37 is an optical sensor and includes a light emitting unit 37a and a light receiving unit 37b. The light emitting unit 37a is provided on the side of the rack detection position 33a, and the light receiving unit 37b is provided in front of the rack detection position 33a. The light emitting unit 37a is arranged to emit light obliquely forward, and the light receiving unit 37b is arranged to receive this light. Therefore, the sample rack L sent from the rack transport unit 321 is located at the rack detection position 33a, whereby the light emitted from the light emitting unit 37a is blocked by the sample rack L, and the light receiving level of the light receiving unit 37b is lowered. Thus, the sample rack L is detected by the rack sensor 37. Further, from both side surfaces of the pre-analysis rack holding portion 33, rack feeding portions 33b are provided so as to protrude inward. When the sample rack L is detected by the rack sensor 37, the rack feeding portion 33b protrudes to engage with the sample rack L, and in this state, moves backward (in the direction close to the rack transport portion 35). As a result, the sample rack L is transferred backward. The rack feeding unit 33b is configured to be driven by a stepping motor 33c provided below the pre-analysis rack holding unit 33.

  As shown in FIG. 9, the rack transport unit 35 can transport the sample rack L transferred by the pre-analysis rack holding unit 33 in the X direction. On the transport path of the sample rack L by the rack transport unit 35, a sample container detection position 35a where the sample container is detected by the sample container sensor 38, and a sample for supplying the sample to the measurement unit 51 of the blood cell analyzer 5 A supply position 35c exists. The rack transport unit 35 is configured to be able to transport the sample rack L so that the sample is transported to the sample supply position 35c via the sample container detection position 35a. The sample supply position 35c is a position downstream from the sample container detection position 35a by one sample in the transport direction. When the sample is transported to the sample supply position 35c by the rack transport unit 35, a blood cell analyzer described later The sample unit is supplied to the measurement unit 51 by gripping the sample container T of the sample, taking out the sample container T from the sample rack L, and sucking the sample from the sample container T. . After the sample container is transported to the sample supply position 35c, the rack transport unit 35 waits for the sample rack L to be transported until the sample supply is completed and the sample container T is returned to the sample rack L.

  Further, the rack transport unit 35 has two belts, a first belt 351 and a second belt 352, which can be operated independently. Further, the widths b1 and b2 of the first belt 351 and the second belt 352 in the arrow Y direction are each half or less the width B of the sample rack L in the arrow Y direction. The first belt 351 and the second belt 352 are arranged in parallel so as not to protrude from the width B of the sample rack L when the rack transport unit 35 transports the sample rack L. FIG. 10 is a front view showing the configuration of the first belt 351, and FIG. 11 is a front view showing the configuration of the second belt 352. As shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, the first belt 351 and the second belt 352 are each formed in an annular shape, the first belt 351 is disposed so as to surround the rollers 351a to 351c, and the second belt 352 is It arrange | positions so that roller 352a-352c may be surrounded. In addition, on the outer peripheral portion of the first belt 351, two projecting pieces 351d are provided so as to have an inner width w1 slightly larger (for example, 1 mm) than the width W in the X direction of the sample rack L. Similarly, On the outer periphery of the second belt 352, two protruding pieces 352d are provided so as to have an inner width w2 that is approximately the same as the inner width w1. The first belt 351 moves the outer periphery of the rollers 351a to 351c by the stepping motor 351e (see FIG. 9) while holding the sample rack L inside the two protruding pieces 351d, thereby moving the sample rack L to the arrow. It is configured to move in the X direction. The second belt 352 moves the outer periphery of the rollers 352a to 352c by the stepping motor 352e (see FIG. 9) while holding the sample rack L inside the two protruding pieces 352d, thereby moving the sample rack L to the arrow. It is configured to move in the X direction. Further, the first belt 351 and the second belt 352 are configured to be able to transfer the sample rack L independently of each other.

  The sample container sensor 38 is a contact-type sensor, and includes a goodwill-shaped contact piece, a light emitting element that emits light, and a light receiving element (not shown). The specimen container sensor is configured such that the contact piece is bent by abutting against the detection target object, and as a result, the light emitted from the light emitting element is reflected by the contact piece and enters the light receiving element. . As a result, when the sample container T to be detected housed in the sample rack L passes below the sample container sensor 38, the contact piece is bent by the sample container T, and the sample container T can be detected. .

  A rack delivery unit 39 is disposed so as to face a post-analysis rack holding unit 34 to be described later with the rack transport unit 35 interposed therebetween. The rack delivery unit 39 is configured to linearly move horizontally in the direction of arrow Y by the driving force of the stepping motor 39a. As a result, when the sample rack L is transported to a position 391 (hereinafter referred to as “post-analysis rack delivery position”) between the post-analysis rack holding unit 34 and the rack delivery unit 39, the rack delivery unit 39 is analyzed. By moving to the rear rack holding unit 34 side, the sample rack L can be pushed and moved into the post-analysis rack holding unit 34. In this way, the sample rack L that has been analyzed is sent from the rack transport section 35 to the post-analysis rack holding section 34.

  The rack transporter 321 extends in the direction of arrow X in the figure, and can move the sample rack L linearly in the direction of arrow X horizontally. The rack transport unit 321 includes an annular belt 321a and a stepping motor 321b, and is configured to rotate the belt 321a in the arrow X direction by the driving force of the stepping motor 321b. As a result, the sample rack L placed on the belt 321a can be moved in the X direction. In addition, on the front side of the pre-analysis rack holding unit 33, a rack delivery unit 322 is disposed so as to face the pre-analysis rack holding unit 33 with the rack transport unit 321 interposed therebetween. The rack delivery unit 322 is configured to move linearly in the arrow Y direction by the driving force of the stepping motor 322a. As a result, when the sample rack L is transported to a position 323 (hereinafter referred to as “pre-analysis rack delivery position”) between the pre-analysis rack holding unit 33 and the rack delivery unit 322, the rack delivery unit 322 is analyzed. By moving to the front rack holding unit 33 side, the sample rack L can be pushed and moved to the rack detection position 33 a in the pre-analysis rack holding unit 33.

  The post-analysis rack holding unit 34 has a quadrangular shape in plan view, and its width is slightly larger than the width of the sample rack L. The post-analysis rack holder 34 is formed one step lower than the surrounding surface, and the sample rack L that has been analyzed is placed on the upper surface thereof. The post-analysis rack holding section 34 is connected to the rack transport section 35, and the sample rack L is sent from the rack transport section 35 by the rack delivery section 39 as described above. From both side surfaces of the post-analysis rack holding portion 34, a rack feeding portion 34b is provided so as to protrude inward. When the sample rack L is carried in by the rack sending section 39, the rack feeding section 34b projects to engage with the sample rack L, and in this state, moves forward (in a direction close to the rack transport section 321). By doing so, the sample rack L is transferred forward. The rack feeding section 34b is configured to be driven by a stepping motor 34c provided below the post-analysis rack holding section 34.

  With this configuration, the transport mechanism 31 receives the measurement line L1 that is the transport line of the sample rack L that passes through the sample supply position 35c and the sample rack L that has been transported without passing through the sample supply position 35c. A skip line L2, which is a transfer line for carrying out to the downstream apparatus, is formed.

  The transport mechanism 31 configured as described above is controlled by the control unit 32. The control unit 32 includes a CPU, a ROM, a RAM, and the like (not shown). The control program for the transport mechanism 31 stored in the ROM can be executed by the CPU. Further, the control unit 32 includes an Ethernet (registered trademark) interface, and is communicably connected to the information processing unit 52 and the system control device 8 via a LAN.

  With the above-described configuration, the sample transport device 3 transports the sample rack L transported from the sample loading device 2 to the pre-analysis rack transport position 323 by the rack transport unit 321 and analyzes by the rack transport unit 322. The sample rack L is transferred to the front rack holding unit 33, the sample rack L is sent from the pre-analysis rack holding unit 33 to the rack transport unit 35, and further transported by the rack transport unit 35, whereby the sample is measured in the blood cell analyzer 5. 51 can be supplied. In addition, the sample rack L containing the sample that has been aspirated is transferred to the post-analysis rack delivery position 391 by the rack transport unit 35 and sent to the post-analysis rack holding unit 34 by the rack delivery unit 39. The sample rack L held by the post-analysis rack holding unit 34 is transferred to the rack transport unit 321 and is transported to the subsequent apparatus (the sample transport apparatus 3 or 301) by the rack transport unit 321. In addition, when the sample transport device 3 receives a sample rack L containing a sample to be processed by the measurement unit 51 or smear sample preparation device 6 on the downstream side of the transport or a sample that has been analyzed, the rack transport unit The sample rack L is transported in the direction of the arrow X by 321 and is transported to the subsequent sample transport apparatus 3 as it is.

<Configuration of Sample Transport Device 301>
As shown in FIG. 1, a sample transport device 301 is disposed on the front side of the smear preparation apparatus 6. The right side end of the sample transport apparatus 301 is connected to the sample transport apparatus 3 located on the most downstream side (left side in the drawing) of the three sample transport apparatuses 3, 3, and 3, and the left end thereof. Are connected to the specimen storage device 4.

  The sample transport device 301 includes a conveyor 302 and a rack slider 303. The conveyor 302 is provided with two rack transport paths 302a and 302b that extend in the left-right direction. The rack conveyance path 302 a adjacent to the smear preparation apparatus 6 is a measurement line for conveying the sample rack L that contains the specimen to be supplied to the smear preparation apparatus 6. On the other hand, the rack transport path 302b away from the smear preparation apparatus 6 is a skip line for transporting the sample rack L that does not contain the specimen to be supplied to the smear preparation apparatus 6. Moreover, the conveyor 302 is provided with CPU and memory, and is provided with the control part (not shown) which controls each operation | movement mechanism.

  The rack slider 303 is disposed on the right side of the conveyor 302, and sorts and loads the sample rack L to the measurement line 302a and the skip line 302b of the conveyor 302.

<Configuration of specimen storage device 4>
The sample storage device 4 is configured so that a plurality of sample racks L can be placed thereon. The sample storage device 4 receives from the sample transport device 301 and stores the sample rack L for which analysis or smear preparation has been completed.

<Configuration of blood cell analyzer 5>
The blood cell analyzer 5 is an optical flow cytometry type multi-item blood cell analyzer, which acquires side scattered light intensity, fluorescence intensity, etc. with respect to blood cells contained in the blood sample, and is included in the sample based on these. The blood cells are classified, the number of blood cells is counted for each type, and a scattergram in which the blood cells thus classified are color-coded for each type is created and displayed. The blood cell analyzer 5 includes a measurement unit 51 that measures a blood sample, and an information processing unit 52 that processes the measurement data output from the measurement unit 51 and displays the analysis result of the blood sample.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the blood cell analyzer 5 includes three measurement units 51, 51, 51 and one information processing unit 52. The information processing unit 52 is communicably connected to the three measurement units 51, 51, 51, and can control the operations of these three measurement units 51, 51, 51, respectively. The information processing unit 52 is also communicably connected to the three sample transport devices 3, 3, and 3 disposed on the front side of the three measurement units 51, 51, 51, respectively.

  The three measurement units 51, 51, 51 have the same configuration. FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the measurement unit 51. As shown in FIG. 12, the measurement unit 51 prepares a sample suction unit 511 that sucks blood as a sample from a sample container (collection tube) T, and a measurement sample used for measurement from the blood sucked by the sample suction unit 511. A sample preparation unit 512 for detecting the blood cells from the measurement sample prepared by the sample preparation unit 512. In addition, the measurement unit 51 includes an intake port (not shown) for taking the sample container T accommodated in the sample rack L conveyed by the rack conveyance unit 35 of the sample conveyance device 3 into the measurement unit 51; It further includes a sample container transport unit 515 that takes the sample container T from the sample rack L into the measurement unit 51 and transports the sample container T to the suction position by the sample suction unit 511.

  A suction tube (not shown) is provided at the distal end of the sample suction unit 511. The sample aspirating unit 511 is movable in the vertical direction, and when moved downward, the aspirating tube penetrates the lid CP of the sample container T conveyed to the aspirating position, and aspirates blood inside. Is configured to do.

  The sample preparation unit 512 includes a plurality of reaction chambers (not shown). The sample preparation unit 512 is connected to a reagent container (not shown) and can supply reagents such as a staining reagent, a hemolytic agent, and a diluent to the reaction chamber. The sample preparation unit 512 is also connected to the suction tube of the sample suction unit 511, and can supply the blood sample sucked by the suction tube to the reaction chamber. The sample preparation unit 512 mixes and stirs the specimen and the reagent in the reaction chamber to prepare a sample (measurement sample) for measurement by the detection unit 513.

  The detection unit 513 can perform RBC (red blood cell) detection and PLT (platelet) detection by a sheath flow DC detection method. In the detection of RBC and PLT by the sheath flow DC detection method, a measurement sample in which a specimen and a diluent are mixed is measured, and the information processing unit 52 analyzes the measurement data obtained thereby. RBC and PLT measurements are made. The detection unit 513 can perform HGB (hemoglobin) detection by the SLS-hemoglobin method, and includes WBC (leukocyte), NEUT (neutrophil), LYMPH (lymphocyte), EO (eosinophil), BASO (basophil) and MONO (monocyte) can be detected by a flow cytometry method using a semiconductor laser. In this detection unit 513, detection of WBC without 5 classification of white blood cells, that is, detection of WBC without detection of NEUT, LYMPH, EO, BASO, and MONO, and detection of WBC with 5 classification of white blood cells, The detection method is different. In detection of WBC without the classification of leukocytes, measurement of a measurement sample in which a specimen, a hemolytic agent, and a diluent are mixed is performed, and the information processing unit 52 analyzes the measurement data obtained thereby. The WBC is measured by. On the other hand, in the detection of WBC accompanied by leukocyte 5 classification, a measurement sample in which a staining reagent, a hemolytic agent, and a diluent are mixed is measured, and the information processing unit 52 performs analysis processing on the measurement data obtained thereby. Thus, NEUT, LYMPH, EO, BASO, MONO, and WBC are measured.

  The sample container transport unit 515 includes a hand unit 515a that can hold the sample container T. The hand portion 515a includes a pair of gripping members disposed so as to face each other, and the gripping members can be moved toward and away from each other. The specimen container T can be gripped by bringing the gripping members close together with the specimen container T sandwiched therebetween. Further, the sample container transport unit 515 can move the hand unit 515a in the vertical direction and the front-rear direction (Y direction), and can swing the hand unit 515a. Thereby, the sample container T accommodated in the sample rack L and positioned at the supply position 35c is gripped by the hand unit 515a, and the sample container T is extracted from the sample rack L by moving the hand unit 515a upward in this state. The sample in the sample container T can be agitated by swinging the hand unit 515a.

  The sample container transport unit 515 includes a sample container setting unit 515b having a hole part into which the sample container T can be inserted. The sample container T gripped by the hand unit 515a is moved after the stirring is completed, and the gripped sample container T is inserted into the hole of the sample container setting unit 515b. Thereafter, by separating the gripping member, the sample container T is released from the hand unit 515a, and the sample container T is set in the sample container setting unit 515b. The sample container setting unit 515b can be moved horizontally in the Y direction by the power of a stepping motor (not shown). Inside the measurement unit 51, a barcode reading unit 516 is provided. The sample container setting unit 515b is movable to a barcode reading position 516a in the vicinity of the barcode reading unit 516 and a suction position 511a by the sample suction unit 511. When the sample container setting unit 515b moves to the barcode reading position 516a, the set sample container T is horizontally rotated by a rotation mechanism (not shown), and the sample barcode is read by the barcode reading unit 516. Thereby, even when the barcode label BL1 of the sample container T is located on the opposite side to the barcode reading unit 516, the barcode label BL1 is directed to the barcode reading unit 516 by rotating the sample container T. It is possible to cause the barcode reading unit 516 to read the sample barcode. Further, when the sample container setting unit 515b moves to the aspiration position, the sample is aspirated from the set sample container T by the sample aspiration unit 511.

  Next, the configuration of the information processing unit 52 will be described. The information processing unit 52 is configured by a computer. FIG. 13 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of the information processing unit 52. The information processing unit 52 is realized by a computer 52a. As illustrated in FIG. 13, the computer 52 a includes a main body 521, an image display unit 522, and an input unit 523. The main body 521 includes a CPU 521a, a ROM 521b, a RAM 521c, a hard disk 521d, a reading device 521e, an input / output interface 521f, a communication interface 521g, and an image output interface 521h. The output interface 521f, the communication interface 521g, and the image output interface 521h are connected by a bus 521j.

  The CPU 521a can execute a computer program loaded in the RAM 521c. The computer 521a executes the computer program 524a for sample analysis and control of the measurement unit 51 as will be described later, whereby the computer 52a functions as the information processing unit 52.

  The ROM 521b is configured by a mask ROM, PROM, EPROM, EEPROM, or the like, and stores a computer program executed by the CPU 521a, data used for the same, and the like.

  The RAM 521c is configured by SRAM, DRAM, or the like. The RAM 521c is used for reading the computer program 524a recorded on the hard disk 521d. Further, when the CPU 521a executes a computer program, it is used as a work area of the CPU 521a.

  In the hard disk 521d, various computer programs to be executed by the CPU 521a, such as an operating system and application programs, and data used for executing the computer programs are installed. A computer program 524a described later is also installed in the hard disk 521d.

  The reading device 521e is configured by a flexible disk drive, a CD-ROM drive, a DVD-ROM drive, or the like, and can read a computer program or data recorded on a portable recording medium 524. The portable recording medium 524 stores a computer program 524a for causing the computer to function as the information processing unit 52. The computer 52a reads the computer program 524a from the portable recording medium 524, and the computer program 524a. Can be installed on the hard disk 521d.

  Note that the computer program 524a is not only provided by the portable recording medium 524, but also from an external device communicatively connected to the computer 52a via an electric communication line (whether wired or wireless). It is also possible to provide through. For example, the computer program 524a is stored in the hard disk of a server computer on the Internet. The computer 52a can access the server computer, download the computer program, and install it on the hard disk 521d. is there.

  The hard disk 521d is installed with a multitask operating system such as Windows (registered trademark) manufactured and sold by Microsoft Corporation. In the following description, it is assumed that the computer program 524a according to the present embodiment operates on the operating system.

  The input / output interface 521f is, for example, a serial interface such as USB, IEEE1394, or RS-232C, a parallel interface such as SCSI, IDE, or IEEE1284, and an analog interface including a D / A converter, an A / D converter, and the like. It is configured. An input unit 523 including a keyboard and a mouse is connected to the input / output interface 521f, and the user can input data to the computer 52a by using the input unit 523. The input / output interface 521f is connected to the three measurement units 51, 51, 51. As a result, data can be transmitted / received to / from each of the three measurement units 51, 51, 51.

  The communication interface 521g is an Ethernet (registered trademark) interface. The communication interface 521g is connected to the system controller 8 via a LAN. The computer 52a can transmit and receive data to and from the system control apparatus 8 connected to the LAN using a predetermined communication protocol by the communication interface 521g. The communication interface 521g is communicably connected to the host computer 9 and the sample transport apparatuses 3, 3, and 3 via the LAN.

  The image output interface 521h is connected to an image display unit 522 configured by an LCD, a CRT, or the like, and outputs a video signal corresponding to image data given from the CPU 521a to the image display unit 522. The image display unit 522 displays an image (screen) according to the input video signal.

<Configuration of smear preparation apparatus 6>
The smear preparation apparatus 6 sucks the blood sample, drops it on the slide glass, thinly stretches the blood sample on the slide glass, and after drying it, supplies a staining solution to the slide glass and slide glass A smear is made by staining the upper blood.

  FIG. 14 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the smear preparation apparatus 6. As shown in FIG. 14, the smear sample preparation device 6 includes a specimen dispensing unit 61, a smear unit 62, a slide glass transport unit 63, a staining unit 64, and a control unit 65.

  The sample dispensing unit 61 includes a suction tube (not shown), and the suction tube is pierced into the lid CP of the sample container T of the sample rack L transported on the measurement line 31a of the sample transport device 3. The blood sample is aspirated from the sample container T. The sample dispensing unit 61 is configured to drop the aspirated blood sample onto the slide glass. The smearing unit 62 is configured to smear and dry the blood sample dropped on the slide glass, and to print on the slide glass.

  The slide glass transport unit 63 is provided to house the slide glass smeared with the blood sample by the smearing unit 62 in a cassette (not shown) and further transport the cassette. The staining unit 64 supplies a staining solution to the slide glass in the cassette that has been transported to the staining position by the slide glass transport unit 63. The control unit 65 controls the sample dispensing unit 61, the smearing unit 62, the slide glass transporting unit 63, and the staining unit 64 in accordance with the sample preparation instruction given from the sample transporting device 3, and performs the above-mentioned smear preparing operation. Let it run.

<Configuration of System Controller 8>
The system control device 8 is configured by a computer and controls the entire sample processing system 1. The system control device 8 receives the number of the sample rack L from the sample loading device 2 and determines the transport destination of the sample rack L.

  The system control device 8 is realized by a computer 8a. As shown in FIG. 13, the computer 8 a includes a main body 81, an image display unit 82, and an input unit 83. The main body 81 includes a CPU 81a, ROM 81b, RAM 81c, hard disk 81d, reading device 81e, input / output interface 81f, communication interface 81g, and image output interface 81h. The CPU 81a, ROM 81b, RAM 81c, hard disk 81d, reading device 81e, input device 81e The output interface 81f, the communication interface 81g, and the image output interface 81h are connected by a bus 81j.

  The hard disk 81d is installed with various computer programs to be executed by the CPU 81a, such as an operating system and application programs, and data used for executing the computer programs. A system control program 84a described later is also installed in the hard disk 81d.

  The reading device 81e is configured by a flexible disk drive, a CD-ROM drive, a DVD-ROM drive, or the like, and can read a computer program or data recorded on the portable recording medium 84. The portable recording medium 84 stores a system control program 84a for causing the computer to function as the system control device 8. The computer 8a reads the system control program 84a from the portable recording medium 84, and the system The control program 84a can be installed in the hard disk 81d.

  The input / output interface 81f is, for example, a serial interface such as USB, IEEE1394, or RS-232C, a parallel interface such as SCSI, IDE, or IEEE1284, and an analog interface including a D / A converter, an A / D converter, and the like. It is configured. An input unit 83 including a keyboard and a mouse is connected to the input / output interface 81f, and the user can input data to the computer 52a by using the input unit 83.

  The communication interface 81g is an Ethernet (registered trademark) interface. The communication interface 81g is connected to the sample input device 2, the sample transport device 3, the sample storage device 4, the information processing unit 52, and the host computer 9 via the LAN. The computer 8a can send and receive data to and from each device connected to the LAN using a predetermined communication protocol by the communication interface 81g.

  Since the other configuration of the system control device 8 is the same as the configuration of the information processing unit 52 described above, the description thereof is omitted.

<Configuration of host computer 9>
The host computer 9 is configured by a computer and includes a CPU, a ROM, a RAM, a hard disk, a communication interface, and the like. The communication interface is connected to the LAN described above, and can communicate with the system control device 8 and the information processing unit 52 of the blood cell analyzer 5. The measurement order is stored in the hard disk. The measurement order includes information on the sample ID and the measurement item to be executed. When the host computer 9 receives the request data of the measurement order including the sample ID from another device, the host computer 9 is configured to read the measurement data corresponding to the sample ID from the hard disk and transmit it to the requesting device. In addition, since the configuration of the host computer 9 is the same as the configuration of the other computers described above, the description thereof is omitted.

  Hereinafter, the operation of the sample processing system 1 according to the present embodiment will be described.

<Operation of Specimen Loading Device 2>
Sample Sorting Operation When a sample is loaded into the sample processing system 1, the sample loading device 2 sorts the sample rack L into one that should be transported to the measurement unit 51 and one that should not be transported. 15A and 15B are flowcharts showing the flow of the sample sorting operation of the sample loading device 2. The user places the sample rack L containing the sample container T on the rack placement unit 211 of the sample loading unit 21, operates the operation panel 214 of the sample loading unit 21, and instructs the sample processing system 1 to start analysis. give. When receiving the analysis start instruction, the control unit 2a of the sample loading device 2 detects the sample rack L loaded in the rack mounting unit 211 by the sensors 212 and 213 (step S101). When an event occurs in which the sensors 212 and 213 detect the sample rack L, the control unit 2a starts to transfer the sample rack L. The sample rack L placed on the rack placement unit 211 of the sample loading unit 21 is moved rearward on the rack placement unit 211 and reaches the barcode reading position (step S102).

  Next, the control unit 2a reads the sample ID of the sample stored in the sample rack L and the rack ID of the sample rack L using the barcode readers 21b and 21c (step S103). At this time, each sample container T is horizontally rotated while being held by the sample rack L by the horizontal rotation mechanism 21d, and the sample barcode is read when the barcode label BL1 faces the barcode reader 21b. Further, the control unit 2a transmits the read sample ID and rack ID to the system control device 8 (step S104). In the data transmitted in step S104, the holding position (1 to 10) of the sample container T in the sample rack L is associated with the sample ID of the held sample container. Further, when the sample ID cannot be acquired due to the reading failure of the sample barcode, data indicating the reading failure of the sample barcode is transmitted in association with the holding position.

  Further, the control unit 2a lowers the CCD camera 21e and the white LED 21f that have been retracted upward so as not to hinder the transfer of the sample rack L on the rack mounting unit 211, and sends the first image to the system control device 8. A transmission instruction signal is transmitted (step S105). As will be described later, when receiving the first image capture instruction signal, the system control device 8 captures a captured image of the camera 21e, and then performs image processing on the captured image and accommodates it in the sample rack L. The shape of the sample container is detected. Thereafter, the control unit 2 a moves the sample rack L to the left and sends it to the sample check unit 22.

  The sample rack L introduced into the sample check unit 22 is transferred to the left by the control unit 2a by the transport belt 228 of the rack accommodating unit 221 in one pitch (step S106). The control unit 2a determines whether or not the sample container T exists at a position in front of the horizontal rotation mechanism 223 (step S107). This process is performed by referring to the light receiving level of the light receiving element 223c of the optical sensor 223a, for example. When the sample container T does not exist at the front position of the horizontal rotation mechanism 223 (NO in step S107), the control unit 2a moves the process to step S109. On the other hand, when the sample container T is positioned in front of the horizontal rotation mechanism 223 (YES in step S107), the control unit 2a drives the horizontal rotation mechanism 223 to position the sample container T so that the barcode label BL1 is directed forward. Rotate horizontally (step S108). In this process, the control unit 2a compares the light reception level of the light receiving element 223c of the optical sensor 223a with a predetermined value while rotating the contact portion 223d against the lid portion CP of the sample container T, and the light reception level is The sample container T is rotated horizontally until the predetermined value or more is reached. Thereby, the barcode label BL1 is directed forward.

  Next, the control unit 2a determines whether or not the sample container T exists in front of the sample container tilting mechanism 224 (step S109). This process is determined based on, for example, how many times the sample container T present at the front position of the horizontal rotation mechanism 223 has been fed. When the sample container T does not exist at the front position of the sample container tilting mechanism 224 (NO in step S109), the control unit 2a moves the process to step 115. When the sample container T is present at the front position of the sample container tilting mechanism 224 (YES in step S109), the control unit 2a holds the sample container T with the holding unit 224a and lifts it to the upper first imaging position ( In step S110, a second image capture instruction signal is transmitted to the system control device 8 (step S111). As will be described later, when receiving the second image capture instruction signal, the system control device 8 captures an image captured by the camera 225a, and then performs image processing on the captured image, and blood in the sample container T Detect the amount.

  Next, the control unit 2a vertically rotates the grip unit 224a by a predetermined angle to tilt the sample container T to the second imaging position (step S112), and transmits a third image capture instruction signal to the system control device 8. (Step S113). As will be described later, when receiving the third image capture instruction signal, the system control device 8 captures an image captured by the camera 225b, and thereafter performs image processing on the captured image, and blood in the specimen container T. Determine the presence of coagulation.

  Next, the control unit 2a rotates the gripping part 224a in the opposite direction, returns the sample container T to the vertical state again, further lowers the gripping part 224a, and accommodates the sample container T in the sample rack L ( Step S114).

  In addition, although the process of above-mentioned step S107-S108 and the process of step S109-S114 are described so that it may perform sequentially for simplicity of description here, it is actually performed in parallel. That is, for example, the horizontal rotation of the sample container T is performed for one sample container T accommodated in the sample rack L, while the sample rack L of the sample container T is used for the other sample containers T. The pulling out operation is performed.

  The control unit 2a determines whether or not the above processing has been completed for all the sample containers T stored in the sample rack L. To be precise, the sample container storage unit at the right end of the sample rack L has the sample container tilting mechanism 224. Is determined (step S115). If the right end of the sample rack L has not yet reached the front position of the sample container tilting mechanism 224 (NO in step S115), the sample rack L Is moved to the left by one pitch (step S116), and the process returns to step S107.

  When the right end of the sample rack L has reached the front position of the sample container tilting mechanism 224 (YES in step S115), the control unit 2a transmits sorting preparation completion data to the system control device 8 (step S117), and thereafter Then, it waits for reception of the conveyance instruction data or the storage instruction data (NO in step S118). The transport instruction data is transmitted from the system controller 8 when the sample rack L contains only the specimen to be subjected to the blood cell analysis of the blood cell analyzer 5, and the storage instruction data is transmitted from the sample rack L to the blood cell analyzer 5. Is sent from the system controller 8 when a specimen that should not be used for blood cell analysis is housed.

  When receiving the conveyance instruction data or the storage instruction data (YES in step S118), control unit 2a determines whether or not the received data is the storage instruction data (step S119). FIG. 16 is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the storage instruction data. The storage instruction data D1 includes the rack ID of the sample rack L, the holding position (1 to 10) of the sample container T in the sample rack L, the sample ID of each sample container T, and error information indicating the content of the abnormality (abnormal Code). The holding position, the sample ID, and the error information of the sample container T are associated with each other, and the holding position, the sample ID, and the error information of the sample container T where the error has occurred can be specified.

  In step S119, when the received data is storage instruction data (NO in step S119), the control unit 2a adds this sample to the storage rack information in the memory included in the control unit 2a based on the storage instruction data. Information on the rack L is added (step S120). FIG. 17 is a schematic diagram illustrating a structure of stored rack information. As shown in the figure, the storage rack information D2 includes a rack ID, a sample ID at each holding position, and error information at each holding position. The specimen ID and the error information are associated with each other, and it is possible to specify what kind of error has occurred in which specimen. The stored rack information D2 includes information regarding all the sample racks L accommodated in the rack accommodating portion 221. Thereafter, the control unit 2a transfers the sample rack L to the rack storage unit 221 by the rack delivery unit 229 (step S121), and ends the process.

  If the received data is the transport instruction data in step S119 (YES in step S119), the control unit 2a further moves the sample rack L to the left and transfers the sample rack L to the sample delivery unit 23. It is sent out (step S122). The control unit 2a reads the rack barcode of the sample rack L with the barcode reader 23a (step S123), and transfers the sample rack L to the rack unloading position for unloading the sample rack L to the subsequent sample transport apparatus 3. (Step S124). Thereafter, the control unit 2a transmits unloading request data including the rack ID of the sample rack L to the system control device 8 (step S125), and waits for unloading instruction data transmitted from the system control device 8 (in step S126). NO). When the sample insertion device 2 receives the carry-out instruction data from the system control device 8 (YES in step S126), the sample loading device 2 carries out the sample rack L to the adjacent sample transport device 3 (step S127), and the carry-out completion data is sent to the system control device. 8 (step S128). Thereafter, the control unit 2a ends the process.

Retracted Rack Information Display Operation Information on the sample rack L that has been retreated in the rack accommodating unit 221 of the sample check unit 22 as described above is displayed on the liquid crystal display unit 227 of the sample check unit 22. FIG. 18A is a flowchart showing the flow of the evacuation rack information display operation. When the storage instruction data D1 is transmitted from the system control device 8, the storage rack information D2 of the control unit 2a is updated, and the sample rack L is transferred to the rack storage unit 221, the control unit 2a includes the storage rack information D2. Based on this, the storage rack list screen is displayed on the liquid crystal display unit 227 (step S131).

  FIG. 19 is a diagram illustrating an example of the stored rack list screen. As shown in the figure, the storage rack list screen W1 is provided with a list display area A1 in which the rack IDs of the sample racks L in which an abnormality has been detected are displayed as a list. In the list display area A1, each rack ID can be selected by an operator touching it with a finger. The selected rack ID is displayed in a different color from the unselected rack ID. The storage rack list screen W1 is provided with a display switching button B1 for switching the screen display to the detailed information screen of the rack ID selected in the list display area A1. When the control unit 2a receives a rack ID selection from the operator and an instruction to display the detailed information screen of the sample rack L (step S132), the control unit 2a displays the detailed information screen on the liquid crystal display unit 227 (step S133). In addition, the operator does not operate the touch panel to select the rack ID and input the detailed information screen display instruction, but the operator reads the rack barcode of the sample rack L with the handy barcode reader 222c. The rack ID is input to the control unit 2a, whereby the detailed information screen of the sample rack L can be displayed. After displaying the detailed information screen, the control unit 2a ends the process.

  FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating an example of the detailed information screen of the sample rack L. As shown in the figure, the detailed information screen W2 includes a rack ID 200a, a number 200b of each holding position of the sample rack, and error information 200c and 200d associated with the holding position. The error information 200c is information indicating a sample barcode reading failure, and the error information 200d is information indicating coagulated blood. Further, the detailed information screen W2 includes a first delete button B21 for deleting the information of the sample rack L, a second delete button B22 for deleting the selected error information, and the display end of this screen. A close button B23 for instructing is provided. In the detailed information screen W2, the operator can select desired error information by operating the touch panel. In addition, the operator can input an instruction to delete the error information by selecting the second delete button B22 in a state where the error information is selected in this way. The operator selects a sample barcode reading error, takes out a sample container T with a sample barcode reading failure from the sample rack L, and causes the sample barcode to be read again by the handy barcode reader 222c. Code reading errors can be eliminated.

  Further, the operator confirms the detailed information screen to take out the sample container T of coagulated blood from the sample rack L and analyze the blood sample by a technique or take out the sample container T with poor barcode reading, The sample barcode is read again by the handy barcode reader 222c, the sample container is returned to the original holding position of the sample rack L, and the sample rack L is loaded on the rack re-insertion unit 231 of the sample delivery unit 23. Appropriate measures can be taken.

  FIG. 18B is a flowchart showing the flow of the barcode re-reading operation. This operation is performed when the operator rereads a sample barcode that has been poorly read using the handy barcode reader 222c while the detailed information screen is displayed. When the operator selects a sample barcode reading error (step S141) and an event occurs in which the sample barcode that has been read incorrectly is read (step S142), the sample barcode reading error information is stored from the stored rack information D2. Is deleted (step S143). Next, the controller 2a determines whether or not all error information related to the sample rack L in the stored rack information D2 has been deleted (step S144). When all the error information regarding the sample rack L is deleted in the storage rack information D2 (YES in step S144), the control unit 2a deletes the information on the sample rack L from the storage rack information D2 (step S145). Then, the process proceeds to step S146. On the other hand, when other error information regarding the sample rack L remains in the storage rack information D2 (NO in step S144), the control unit 2a moves the process to step S146.

  In step S146, the control unit 2a transmits the read sample ID together with the rack ID of the sample rack to the system control device 8 (step S146). Thereafter, the control unit 2a ends the process. Receiving this sample ID, the system control device 8 inquires of the host computer 9 about the measurement order using this sample ID as a key, and deletes error information associated with this sample ID from the hard disk 81d.

  FIG. 18C is a flowchart showing a flow of error information removal operation. This operation is performed when the operator selects error information displayed and deletes the error information while the detailed information screen is displayed. An operator may be able to make a specimen once an error is detected into a measurable state, for example, by transferring a coagulated specimen to another specimen container or removing an aggregate. In such a case, the operator returns the sample in a measurable state to the original position of the sample rack L, and further deletes the error information displayed on the detailed information screen, so that the sample rack L Can be re-entered into the system. When an operator receives a selection on the detailed information screen of error information (step S151) and an event for receiving an instruction to delete the error information, that is, an event for receiving selection of the second deletion button B22 occurs (step S152), the storage rack The error information is deleted from the information D2 (step S153). Next, the control unit 2a determines whether or not all error information regarding the sample rack L in the stored rack information D2 has been deleted (step S154). When all the error information related to the sample rack L is deleted in the storage rack information D2 (YES in step S154), the control unit 2a deletes the information on the sample rack L from the storage rack information D2 (step S155). Then, the process proceeds to step S156. On the other hand, when other error information regarding the sample rack L remains in the storage rack information D2 (NO in step S154), the control unit 2a moves the process to step S156.

  In step S156, the control unit 2a transmits the deleted error information together with the sample ID to the system control device 8 together with the rack ID of the sample rack (step S146). Thereafter, the control unit 2a ends the process. The system control device 8 that has received this data deletes the error information associated with this sample ID from the hard disk 81d.

  The operator can put the sample rack L into the rack re-insertion unit 231 of the sample delivery unit 23 after making the sample rack L ready for re-insertion in this way. The sample rack L re-inserted into the rack re-input unit 231 is automatically carried out to the sample transport device 3.

  FIG. 18D is a flowchart showing the flow of the stored rack removal operation. This operation is performed by the operator in order to perform the inspection by the usage method, replace the barcode label, or place the sample rack L on the rack placement unit 211 of the sample loading unit 21 again. This operation is performed when the sample rack L is removed from the sample rack L. In the control unit 2a, when the operator selects the first delete button B21 and an event for receiving an instruction to delete information related to the sample rack L from the storage rack information D2 occurs (step S161), the control unit 2a displays the storage rack information. Information on the sample rack L is deleted from D2 (step S162), and the process is terminated. Thereafter, the operator takes out the sample rack L from the rack housing unit 221, and performs inspection using a technique for a coagulated sample or a sample with insufficient sample amount, replacement of a barcode in which reading failure occurs, or the rack mounting unit 211. Take necessary measures such as re-injection.

<Operation of System Controller 8>
Next, the operation of the system control device 8 will be described.

The measurement order acquisition operation system control device 8 receives the sample ID from the sample input device 2, and inquires of the host computer 9 about the measurement order using this sample ID as a key. Here, the measurement order is data indicating an instruction of an analysis item to be analyzed for the sample, and includes sample attribute information such as sample ID, patient ID, and patient name, and analysis item information. . Hereinafter, this operation will be described in detail.

  FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing the flow of the measurement order acquisition operation of the system control device 8. As described above, the sample input device 2 transmits the sample ID and the rack ID read by the barcode readers 21 b and 21 c to the system control device 8. The rack ID and sample ID are received by the communication interface 81g of the system control device 8 (step S201). When an event for receiving the rack ID and the sample ID occurs in the CPU 81a, the process of step S202 is called.

  In step S202, the CPU 81a determines whether or not the received data includes defective sample ID reading data (step S202). If the received data includes sample ID reading failure data (YES in step S202), the CPU 81a determines the rack ID of the sample rack L (in the case of rack ID reading failure, the loaded sample rack L). (Sequentially assigned rack sequential number) and sample barcode reading error information indicating that a reading failure of the sample barcode has occurred in association with the holding position of the sample container is stored in the hard disk 51d (step S203). The process proceeds to step S204. On the other hand, if all of the sample ID reading failure data is not included (NO in step S202), the CPU 81a advances the process to step 204.

  In step S204, the CPU 81a transmits one of the received sample IDs to the host computer 9, and requests the host computer 9 for a measurement order corresponding to the sample ID (step S204). The CPU 81a waits for reception of the measurement order (step S205). When the measurement order transmitted from the host computer 9 is received by the system control device 8 (“reception successful” in step S205), the received measurement order is racked. The information is stored in the hard disk 81d in association with the ID (step S206). On the other hand, when the measurement order corresponding to the sample ID cannot be received (when the measurement order has not been received by the predetermined receivable period, or the host computer 9 receives information indicating that the corresponding measurement order does not exist) (When the reception failed in step S205), information indicating that the measurement order does not exist (measurement order acquisition error information) is stored in association with the rack ID and the holding position of the sample container T ( Step S207).

  Next, the CPU 71a determines whether or not the measurement order inquiry has been completed for the sample ID corresponding to the rack ID, that is, the sample IDs of all the samples stored in the sample rack L of the rack ID. (Step S208) If there is a sample ID that has not been inquired about the measurement order (NO in Step S208), the process returns to Step S204, and the measurement corresponding to the sample ID that has not yet been inquired about the measurement order. Request an order from the host computer 9.

  On the other hand, when the measurement order inquiry for all the specimen IDs is completed (YES in step S208), the CPU 81a ends the process.

The sample container shape detection processing system control device 8 acquires an image of the sample container T input to the sample input device 2, and detects the shape of the sample container based on this image. Hereinafter, this operation will be described in detail.

  FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing the flow of the specimen container shape detection process of the system control device 8. As shown in FIG. 22, when an event occurs in the CPU 81a of the system control device 8 that the system control device 8 receives the first image capture instruction signal transmitted from the sample insertion device 2 (step S211), step S212 is performed. Is called.

  In step S212, the CPU 81a captures an image captured by the camera 21e at that time (step S212). This captured image includes the entire image of the sample rack L. Next, the CPU 81a detects the position of the lid CP of each sample container T in the captured image that has been taken in (step S213). This process will be described in detail. The color and shape of the lid of the sample container are different depending on the type of the sample container. Therefore, in this process, the image captured by the camera 21e, which is a color image, is differentiated by the R value, the G value, and the B value. For example, in the case of a sample container having a purple lid, the differential value between the R value and the B value is larger (or smaller) in the peripheral portion of the lid than in other portions. In the case of a sample container having a pink lid, the differential value of the R value becomes larger (smaller) than the other parts at the peripheral portion of the lid. Further, since the lid portion of the sample container protrudes from the sample rack L, only the image above the sample rack L is the processing target. Thereby, the influence of the color of the blood sample transmitted from the sample container can be eliminated. In this way, the position of the specimen container lid is detected from the differential values of the R value, G value, and B value. When a plurality of sample containers T are stored in the sample rack L, the image includes a plurality of lid images, and the position of each lid is detected in this process.

  Next, the CPU 81a identifies the type of the sample container based on the detected color component of each pixel at the position of the lid (step S214). In this process, the average value of the R value, the average value of the G value, and the average value of the B value of each pixel at the position of the lid are obtained, and the average value and the specimen stored in the hard disk 51d in advance are obtained. This is done by comparing the color component information of the lid for each container type. That is, the reference data of the R value, G value, and B value of the lid is stored for each type of specimen container, and the average value of the R value, G value, and B value acquired from the image is the R of each reference data. Compared with the value, the G value, and the B value, and when both are approximated within a predetermined error range, it is determined that the sample container is of that type. When a plurality of lids are imaged, the above processing is performed for each lid, and the type of each sample container is specified.

  Next, the CPU 81a determines, for each sample container in the sample rack L, whether or not the type of the detected sample container is a type suitable for the sample processing system 1 (step S215). Here, the types of sample containers that are not compatible with the sample processing system 1 are those whose size or shape does not match the configuration of the sample container transport unit 515 of the measurement unit 51, and in which the measurement unit 51 cannot perform sample aspiration, and The sample container type is unknown. When there is a sample container determined in step S215 that the type of the sample container is not compatible with the sample processing system 1 (NO in step S215), the CPU 81a determines the rack ID of the sample rack L, and In association with the holding position of the sample container determined to be incompatible, shape error information indicating that the shape of the sample container is not compatible with the sample processing system 1 is stored in the hard disk 51d (step S216), and the process ends. To do. On the other hand, when it is determined that all types of sample containers are compatible with the sample processing system 1 (YES in step S215), the CPU 81a ends the process.

The blood volume detection processing system control device 8 detects the blood volume in the sample container T by taking a captured image of the camera 225a and executing image processing on the captured image.

  FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing a procedure of blood volume detection processing. As shown in FIG. 23, when an event occurs in the CPU 81a where the system control device 8 receives the second image capture instruction signal transmitted from the sample input device 2 (step S221), the processing of step S222 is called. .

  In step S222, the CPU 81a captures an image captured by the camera 225a at that time (step S222). Next, the CPU 81a detects the width of the image of the sample container T in the captured image that has been taken in (step S223). This process will be described in detail. FIG. 24 is a schematic diagram for explaining processing for detecting the width of the image of the sample container T. This image 100 is a color image and has RGB luminance information for each pixel. The CPU 81a performs the following processing on the processing region 101 for obtaining the width of the sample container T in the image 100. Note that the processing area 101 is a predetermined area and includes an image near the bottom of the sample container T and does not include an image of the barcode label BL1. The CPU 81a accumulates the B (blue) luminance value (hereinafter referred to as “B value”) of each pixel in the Y direction in the processing area 101 for each X coordinate in the processing area 101. In other words, the B value cumulative value of each pixel (hereinafter referred to as “B luminance cumulative value”) is calculated for a group of pixels in the vertical column at the left end included in the processing region 101, and then the right side A B luminance cumulative value is calculated for a vertical row of pixel groups. This is repeated until the right end of the processing area 101 is reached while incrementing the X coordinate value.

  In FIG. 24, 101a is a graph of the B luminance accumulated value in the processing region 101 obtained as described above. The accumulated B luminance value in the processing region 101 is high in the background image portion and low in the image portion of the sample container T. Therefore, the CPU 81a performs differentiation in the X direction of the B luminance accumulated value to detect a sharp falling portion and a rising portion of the B luminance accumulated value. Thereby, the width of the sample container T is detected.

  Next, the CPU 81a detects the positions of the left and right end images of the barcode label BL1 (step S224). This process will be described in detail. FIG. 25 is a schematic diagram for explaining processing for detecting the positions of the left and right ends of the image of the barcode label BL1. The CPU 81a performs the following processing on the processing area 102 for detecting the positions of the left and right edges of the image of the barcode label BL1 in the image 100. The processing area 102 is a predetermined area, which is an upper area in the image and includes an image of a barcode label. The CPU 81a calculates a B luminance accumulated value for each X coordinate value in the processing area 102. In the figure, 102a is a graph of the B luminance accumulated value in the processing area 102. As shown in the graph 102a, the B luminance accumulated value in the portion of the barcode label image is higher than the B luminance accumulated value in the background image and the specimen container image. Therefore, the CPU 81a scans the B luminance accumulated value from the left to the right, detects the position where the B luminance accumulated value once increases and then suddenly decreases as the position of the left end image of the barcode label, and then the B luminance accumulated. The value is scanned from right to left, and the position where the B luminance accumulated value once increases and then suddenly decreases is detected as the position of the right end image of the barcode label.

  Next, the CPU 81a detects the lower end position of the sample container image (step S225). This process will be described in detail. FIG. 26 is a schematic diagram for explaining processing for detecting the lower end position of the specimen container image. First, the CPU 81a determines a processing region 103 for detecting the lower end position of the specimen container image and the position of the liquid level image of the blood specimen in the image 100. The processing area 103 is an area slightly inside the area surrounded by the position of the left end image and the position of the right end image of the barcode label detected in step S224. This is because the bar code label image does not exist in the region between the left end image and the right end image of the bar code label.

  For each Y coordinate value in the processing area 103, the CPU 81a calculates a B luminance accumulated value obtained by accumulating the B value in the X direction and an R luminance accumulated value obtained by accumulating the R value. Further, the CPU 81a calculates a value obtained by dividing the R luminance accumulated value by the B luminance accumulated value (hereinafter referred to as “R / B accumulated luminance ratio”) for each Y coordinate. In the figure, 103a is a graph of the B luminance accumulated value in the processing area 103, and 103b is a graph of R / B in the processing area 103. As shown in the graph 103a, the B luminance accumulated value of the image of the blood sample in the sample container is lower than the B luminance accumulated value of the image of the portion where the blood sample does not exist in the sample container and the background image. In the blood sample image, the R / B cumulative luminance ratio is larger than that in other portions. Accordingly, the CPU 81a differentiates this B luminance accumulated value in the Y direction, and detects the position where the B luminance accumulated value suddenly decreases when moving upward from the lower end of the processing region 103 as the lower end position of the specimen container image.

  Next, the CPU 81a determines whether or not the plasma portion and the blood cell portion are separated in the blood sample (step S226). In this process, the B luminance accumulated value and the R luminance accumulated value in the processing region 103 are scanned upward from the lower end position of the specimen container image, and if only the R luminance accumulated value is increased, the plasma portion, the blood cell portion, Is determined to be separated.

  When the plasma portion and the blood cell portion are separated (YES in step S226), the CPU 81a performs a first liquid surface image position detection process for detecting the position of the liquid surface image of the blood sample (step S227), If the plasma portion and the blood cell portion are not separated (NO in step S226), a second liquid level image position detection process for detecting the position of the liquid level image of the blood sample is performed (step S228). In the first liquid level image position detection process, the position where the B luminance cumulative value suddenly increases and the R / B cumulative luminance ratio becomes a predetermined value or less when moving upward from the blood sample image is the liquid level image. It is detected as the position. Further, in the second liquid level image position detection process, a position where the B luminance accumulated value suddenly increases when moving upward from the blood sample image is detected as the position of the liquid level image.

Next, the CPU 81a calculates the blood volume in the sample container T (step S229). In this process, the CPU 81a calculates the blood volume BV using the following equations (1) and (2).
R = (k · W−2T) / 2 (1)
^{BV = πR 2 × (k ·} H-R) + 2πR 3/3 ... (2)
Where R is the radius of the inner surface of the specimen container, k is a coefficient determined by the scale factor of the captured image, W is the width of the specimen container image, T is the thickness of the specimen container, and H is the height of the blood specimen image. (The difference between the position of the liquid level image and the position of the lower end image of the specimen container) is shown. After calculating the blood volume BV, the CPU 81a calculates the blood volume NV necessary for measurement from the measurement order corresponding to the sample ID of the blood sample subjected to image processing (step S2210), and the blood volume BV is the required blood volume. It is determined whether or not it is equal to or higher than NV, that is, whether or not measurement of the sample is possible (step S2211). If it is determined in step S2211 that the blood volume BV is less than the required blood volume NV (NO in step S2211), the CPU 81a holds the rack ID of the sample rack L and the sample container in the sample rack L. In association with the position, sample amount error information indicating that no measurable amount of sample is stored in the sample container is stored in the hard disk 51d (step S2212), and the process ends. On the other hand, when blood volume BV is equal to or higher than necessary blood volume NV (YES in step S2211), CPU 81a ends the process.

Blood Coagulation Determination Process Further , the system control device 8 takes in an image captured by the camera 225b and executes image processing on the captured image, thereby determining whether or not the blood sample in the sample container T is coagulated.

  FIG. 27 is a flowchart showing the procedure of blood coagulation determination processing. As shown in FIG. 27, when an event occurs in the CPU 81a that causes the system control device 8 to receive the third image capture instruction signal transmitted from the sample inserting device 2 (step S231), the processing of step S232 is called. .

  In step S232, the CPU 81a captures an image captured by the camera 225b at that time (step S232). Next, the CPU 81a detects the position of the left end of the image of the sample container T in the captured image that has been captured (step S233). This process will be described in detail. FIG. 28 is a schematic diagram for explaining the process of detecting the left end position of the image of the sample container T. This image 110 is a color image, and has RGB luminance information for each pixel. The CPU 81a performs the following processing on the processing area 111 for obtaining the left end position of the image of the sample container T in the image 110. The processing area 111 is a predetermined area and includes an image near the bottom of the sample container T. The CPU 81a calculates a B luminance accumulated value in the Y direction in the processing area 111 for each X coordinate. In the figure, reference numeral 111 a is a graph of the B luminance accumulated value in the processing area 111. As shown in the graph 111a, the B luminance accumulated value in the portion of the specimen container image is lower than the B luminance accumulated value in the background image. Therefore, the CPU 81a differentiates the B luminance accumulated value in the X direction, and detects the falling position of the B luminance accumulated value when the B luminance accumulated value is scanned from left to right as the left end position of the specimen container image. .

  Next, the CPU 81a detects the upper end position of the sample container bottom image (step S234). This process will be described in detail. FIG. 29 is a schematic diagram for explaining processing for detecting the upper end position of the specimen container bottom image. The CPU 81a determines a processing area 112 for detecting the upper end position of the specimen container bottom image in the image 110. The processing region 112 is a region from the left end position of the sample container image detected in step S233 to the right side by a predetermined number of pixels. This is because, in the image, the sample container T is imaged with the bottom of the sample container T positioned above the lid CP, and the bottom of the sample container T is the top of the sample container. This is because an image needs to be included in the processing region because the image of the bottom of the sample container T exists in a region on the right side of the left end position.

  The CPU 81a calculates the B luminance accumulated value in the X direction in the processing area 112 for each Y coordinate. In the figure, 112 a is a graph of the B luminance accumulated value in the processing area 112. As shown in the graph 112a, the B luminance accumulated value in the sample container image portion is lower than the B luminance accumulated value in the background image. Therefore, the CPU 81a differentiates the B luminance accumulated value in the Y direction, and uses the falling position of the B luminance accumulated value when the B luminance accumulated value is scanned from the top to the bottom as the upper end position of the bottom image of the specimen container. To detect.

  Next, the CPU 81a detects the position of the liquid level image of the blood sample (step S235). This process will be described in detail. The CPU 81a performs the following processing on the processing region 113 (see FIG. 29) for detecting the position of the liquid level image of the blood sample in the image 110. Note that the processing area 113 is a predetermined area and is an area on the right side in the image 110. This is because, when an aggregate formed by blood aggregation is present in the blood sample, the aggregate is usually sunk in the bottom portion of the sample container T due to its weight. For this reason, when the sample container T is tilted to the second imaging position where the bottom of the sample container T is located on the left side when viewed from the front, the blood sample in the sample container T is on the lid CP side (right side) of the sample container T. And the blood sample at the bottom in the sample container T is reduced. On the other hand, the agglomerate that has sunk at the bottom of the sample container T rides on the inner surface of the bottom of the sample container T and protrudes from the surface of the shallow blood sample. Accordingly, only the liquid blood exists in the right region in the image 110, and by providing the processing region 113 in this portion, the processing region 113 does not include an aggregate image, and the liquid blood. Will be included. As described above, the processing region 113 is a region suitable for detecting a liquid level image that is an image of the surface of the liquid. The CPU 81a calculates a B luminance cumulative value and an R luminance cumulative value for each Y coordinate value in the processing area 113. In the figure, 113a is a graph of the B luminance accumulated value in the processing region 113. First, the CPU 81a sequentially checks the R / B cumulative luminance ratio from the lower end of the processing area 113 upward, and determines whether or not the R / B cumulative luminance ratio is equal to or greater than a predetermined value. Here, since the R / B cumulative luminance ratio is large in the blood image portion, it is determined that blood is present in the sample container when the R / B cumulative luminance ratio is equal to or greater than a predetermined value. Can do. Further, when it can be determined that no blood exists, that is, when the R / B cumulative luminance ratio does not exceed a predetermined value over the entire Y-axis direction of the processing region 113, the position of the liquid level image of the blood sample is detected. It is assumed to have failed.

  If it can be determined that blood is present, the CPU 81a increases the B luminance accumulated value upward from a position where the blood is considered to be present (a position where the R / B accumulated luminance ratio is equal to or greater than a predetermined value). A check is made, and a position where the differential value of the B luminance cumulative value is equal to or greater than a predetermined value and the R / B cumulative luminance ratio is equal to or smaller than the predetermined value is detected as the position of the blood surface image. When such a position does not exist, it is considered that the position detection of the blood surface image has failed.

  Next, the CPU 81a determines whether or not the blood surface image position has been successfully detected in step S235 (step S236), and if the blood surface image position has been successfully detected (YES in step S236), the sample container. A processing region for determining the presence or absence of blood coagulation is set on the basis of the left end position and the upper end position of the bottom image and the position of the blood surface image (step S237). The processing area will be described with reference to FIG. In the process of step S237, a region that is on the right side of the left end position of the bottom image of the sample container, below the upper end position of the bottom image of the sample container, and above the position of the blood surface image is set as the processing region 114. . As shown in FIG. 29, when blood is coagulated, an aggregate may protrude upward from the liquid surface. In such a case, an image of an agglomerate is present in the processing region 114 above the liquid level image. By performing image processing on the processing region 114, blood coagulation can be detected. it can.

  On the other hand, when the position detection of the blood surface image fails (NO in step S236), a processing region for determining the presence or absence of blood coagulation is set based on the left end position and the upper end position of the bottom image of the sample container. (Step S238). FIG. 30 is a schematic diagram for explaining a processing region for blood coagulation determination when the position detection of the blood surface image fails. As shown in FIG. 30, the processing region 115 in this case is a region having a predetermined size on the right side from the left end position of the bottom image of the sample container and below the upper end position of the bottom image of the sample container. The When it can be determined that blood is present, if the position of the blood surface image cannot be detected, the blood may become viscous due to coagulation and may adhere to the inner surface of the sample container. In such a case, even if the sample container T is tilted, the liquid level cannot be confirmed, and a large part of the processing region 115 is occupied by the blood image. Therefore, blood coagulation can be detected by performing image processing on the processing region 115.

  After setting the processing region for blood coagulation detection, the CPU 81a determines the presence or absence of blood coagulation (step S239). This process will be described below. For each pixel included in the processing region 114 or 115, the CPU 81a calculates an R / B luminance ratio that is a ratio of the R value and the B value in a single pixel. Then, the CPU 81a counts pixels that have a B value equal to or less than a predetermined value and an R / B luminance ratio equal to or less than a predetermined value among all the pixels included in the processing region 114 or 115. When the number of pixels is equal to or greater than a predetermined value, it is determined that the blood is coagulated. When the number of pixels is less than the predetermined value, it is determined that the blood is not coagulated.

  FIG. 31A is a scattergram showing a distribution state relating to the B value and R / B luminance ratio of the pixels in the processing area 114 in the image shown in FIG. 29, and FIG. 31B shows the processing area 115 in the image shown in FIG. FIG. 31C is a scattergram showing a distribution state related to the B value and R / B luminance ratio of the pixels in FIG. 31C, and FIG. It is a scattergram which shows a distribution state. In the figure, a rectangular frame 150 indicates a range that satisfies the condition that the B value is equal to or less than a predetermined value and the R / B luminance ratio is equal to or less than the predetermined value. As shown in FIG. 31A, when an aggregate is protruding on the blood surface, many pixels among all the pixels included in the processing region 114 (several hundred pixels or more when the image 100 is 640 × 480 dots). ) Satisfies the above conditions. Further, as shown in FIG. 31B, when it can be determined that blood is present, if the position of the blood surface image cannot be detected, a very large number of pixels (image 100 is included in all the pixels included in the processing region 115). 10,000 pixels or more in the case of 640 × 480 dots) satisfies the above condition. On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 31C, when the aggregate does not protrude on the blood surface, a very small number of pixels (all in the case where the image 100 is 640 × 480 dots) out of all the pixels included in the processing region 114. Only the above condition is satisfied. As described above, when the image size is 640 × 480 dots, blood coagulation can be detected with high accuracy by setting the threshold value to about 100.

  If it is determined in step S239 that the blood is coagulated (NO in step S239), the CPU 81a corresponds to the rack ID of the sample rack L and the holding position of the sample container in the sample rack L. In addition, blood coagulation error information indicating that the specimen contained in the specimen container is coagulated is stored in the hard disk 51d (step S2310), and the process is terminated. On the other hand, when it is determined that the blood is not coagulated (YES in step S239), the CPU 81a ends the process.

The sorting instruction processing system control device 8 sorts the sample (sample rack L) transported to the subsequent measurement unit 51 and the sample (sample rack L) not transported to the measurement unit 51 with respect to the sample loading device 2. Perform sorting instructions. Hereinafter, this process will be described in detail.

  FIG. 32 is a flowchart showing a procedure of sorting instruction processing by the system control device 8. As shown in FIG. 32, when an event occurs in the CPU 81a in which the sorting preparation completion data transmitted from the sample inserting device 2 is received by the system control device 8 (step S241), the processing of step S242 is called.

  The sorting preparation completion data includes a rack ID. When receiving the sorting preparation completion data, the CPU 81a receives the sample ID corresponding to the rack ID included in the sorting preparation completion data, the sample barcode reading error information (information indicating that the reading of the sample ID has failed), the sample container. Shape error information (information indicating that the shape of the sample container is not suitable for measurement by the measurement unit 51), measurement order acquisition error information (information indicating that no measurement order corresponding to the sample ID exists), sample Volume error information (information indicating that no measurable amount of sample is stored in the sample container) and blood coagulation error information (information indicating that the sample stored in the sample container is coagulated) Read from 51d (step S242). Thereafter, the CPU 81a determines whether or not the above error information exists for all the sample containers (step S243). If the above error information does not exist for all the sample containers (YES in step S243), The transport instruction data is transmitted to the sample inserting device 2 (step S244), and the process is terminated. On the other hand, in step S243, when the above error information exists for at least one sample container (NO in step S243), the CPU 81a uses the storage instruction data D1 (see FIG. 15) including the read error information as a sample. The data is transmitted to the input device 2 (step S245), and the process ends. In this sorting instruction process, storage instruction data including rack ID reading error information is also transmitted when the rack ID is not included in the sorting preparation completion data (when the rack barcode reading fails).

The transport instruction processing system control device 8 receives the unloading request data from the sample loading device 2, determines the transport destination of the sample rack L using the sample ID included in the unloading request data, and transports to the determined transport destination. Instruct each device to carry. Hereinafter, this operation will be described in detail.

  FIG. 33A is a flowchart illustrating the procedure of the first transport instruction process of the system control apparatus 8. In the first transport instruction process, the transport destination of the sample rack L is determined, and a transport instruction is given to the sample transport device 3 disposed in front of the measurement unit 51 on the most upstream side in the transport direction. The carry-out request data transmitted from the sample input device 2 is received by the communication interface 81g of the system control device 8 (step S251). When an event for receiving the carry-out request data occurs in the CPU 81a, the process of step S252 is called.

  In step S252, the CPU 81a searches for the measurement order stored in the hard disk 81d using the rack ID included in the received carry-out request data as a key (step S252). Next, the CPU 81a determines the transport destination of this sample rack L based on the measurement items included in each received measurement order (step S253). In this process, the measurement unit 51 that is not performing measurement at that time or the measurement unit 51 that has the smallest number of measurement reservations and that can execute all the measurement items included in the measurement order is determined as the measurement destination. Is done.

  Next, the CPU 81a transfers to the sample transport device 3 adjacent to the sample input device 2 (that is, the rightmost sample transport device 3 in FIG. 1), based on the determined transport destination, the load preparation instruction data for the sample rack L Is transmitted (step S254). The carry-in preparation instruction data includes data indicating a transport line (measurement line L1 or skip line L2) for transporting the sample rack L in the sample transport device 3 (hereinafter referred to as “used transport line instruction data”), and the sample rack L. The measurement order of each specimen is included. That is, when the transport destination of the sample rack L is the measurement unit 51 on the most upstream side in the transport direction of the sample rack L, the data indicating the measurement line L1 is used as the transport line instruction data in the carry-in preparation instruction data. Set. On the other hand, when the other measurement unit 51 is determined as the transport destination, data indicating the skip line L2 is set as the use transport line instruction data in the transport preparation instruction data. The sample transport apparatus 3 that has received the carry-in preparation instruction data executes a preparatory operation of the transport mechanism (an operation that enables reception of the sample rack L) indicated by the use transport line instruction data included in the carry-in preparation instruction data. Thereafter, carry-in preparation completion data is transmitted.

  The CPU 81a waits for carry-in preparation completion data from the sample transport device 3 (NO in step S255). When the carry-in preparation completion data is transmitted from the sample transport apparatus 3 and the system control apparatus 8 receives this carry-in preparation completion data (YES in step S255), the CPU 81a carries out the sample rack L to the sample insertion apparatus 2. Instruction data is transmitted (step S256). As described above, when receiving the carry-out instruction data, the sample inserting device 2 carries out the sample rack L to the sample transport device 3 and transmits the carry-out completion data. The CPU 81a waits for unloading completion data from the sample loading device 2 (NO in step S257). When unloading completion data is transmitted from the sample loading device 2 and the system control device 8 receives this unloading completion data (YES in step S257), the CPU 81a waits for loading completion data from the sample transfer device 3 (step S257). NO in S258). When the carry-in completion data is transmitted from the sample transport device 3 and the system control device 8 receives this carry-in completion data (YES in step S258), the CPU 81a ends the process.

  Next, the second transport instruction process of the system control device 8 will be described. In the second transport instruction process, a transport instruction is given to the sample transport device 3 disposed in front of the second or third measurement unit 51 in the transport direction of the sample rack L. FIG. 33B is a flowchart illustrating the procedure of the second transport instruction process. When the sample rack L is transported by the sample transport device 3 and the sample rack L reaches the unloading position for transporting the sample rack L to the subsequent sample transport device 3 (or the sample transport device 301), the sample rack L Unloading request data including the rack ID is transmitted from the sample transport apparatus 3. The carry-out request data transmitted from the sample transport device 3 is received by the communication interface 81g of the system control device 8 (step S261). In the CPU 81a, when an event for receiving the carry-out request data from the sample transport device 3 occurs, the process in step S262 is called.

  In step S262, the CPU 81a transmits the carry-in preparation instruction data for the sample rack L to the subsequent sample transport apparatus 3 of the sample transport apparatus 3 based on the transport destination determined in the transport destination determination process (step S262). . Since this carry-in preparation instruction data is the same as the carry-in preparation instruction data described above, description thereof is omitted.

  Next, the CPU 81a waits for carry-in preparation completion data from the sample transport device 3 (NO in step S263). When the carry-in preparation completion data is transmitted from the sample transport apparatus 3 and the system control apparatus 8 receives this carry-in preparation completion data (YES in step S263), the CPU 81a transfers to the pre-stage (unloading side) sample transport apparatus 3. Then, the carry-out instruction data of the sample rack L is transmitted (step S264). When receiving the carry-out instruction data, the front-stage sample transport apparatus 3 carries out the sample rack L to the rear-stage sample transport apparatus 3 and transmits unload completion data. The CPU 81a waits for unloading completion data from the preceding stage sample transport apparatus 3 (NO in step S265), the unloading completion data is transmitted from the preceding stage sample transport apparatus 3, and the unloading completion data is received by the system control apparatus 8 In step S265 (YES in step S265), the CPU 81a waits for carry-in completion data from the subsequent sample transport apparatus 3 (NO in step S266). When the carry-in completion data is transmitted from the subsequent sample transport apparatus 3 and the carry-in completion data is received by the system control apparatus 8 (YES in step S266), the CPU 81a ends the process.

<Operation of Control Unit 32 of Specimen Transport Device 3>
Here, the operation of the control unit 32 of the sample transport apparatus 3 disposed in front of the measurement unit 51 will be described. 34A and 34B are flowcharts showing the flow of control processing of the transport mechanism 31 by the control unit 32. The carry-in preparation instruction data transmitted from the system control device 8 is received by the control unit 32 (step S301). The transport control program executed by the CPU of the control unit 32 is an event-driven program. When an event for receiving the carry-in preparation instruction data occurs in the control unit 32, the process of step S302 is called.

  In step S302, the control unit 32 performs a carry-in preparation operation by driving the belt 321a of the transport mechanism 31 (step S302). When the carry-in preparation is completed, the control unit 32 transmits carry-in preparation completion data for notifying that the carry-in preparation is completed to the system control device 8 (step S303).

  In response to the transmission of the carry-in preparation completion data, the sample rack L is carried out from the preceding apparatus, and thereby the sample rack L is carried into the transport mechanism 31 (step S304). When the loading of the sample rack L is completed, the control unit 32 transmits loading completion data for notifying the completion of loading of the sample rack L to the system control device 8 (step S305).

  Next, the control unit 32 indicates which one of the measurement line L1 and the skip line L2 is used in the used conveyance line instruction data included in the carry-in preparation instruction data, that is, which one of the measurement line L1 and the skip line L2 is to be used. It is determined whether it is a transfer line (step S306). In step S306, when the used conveyance line instruction data included in the carry-in preparation instruction data indicates the measurement line L, that is, when the measurement line L1 is the conveyance line to be used (in step S306, “measurement line L1 The control unit 32 controls the transport mechanism 31 to move the holding unit located on the leftmost side in FIG. 3 among the holding units of the sample containers T of the sample rack L until the sample container detection position is reached. (Step S307). Next, the control unit 32 sets 1 to the variable i indicating the holding position of the sample container T in the sample rack L (step S308), and whether or not the sample container T is detected at the sample container detection position by the sample container sensor 38. If the sample container T is detected (YES in step S309), the sample rack L is moved leftward by one sample (step S310), and the sample is transferred to the information processing unit 52. Specimen aspiration instruction data indicating an aspiration instruction is transmitted (step S311). As a result, the sample container T detected by the sample container sensor 38 is positioned at the sample supply position 35c, and the sample is aspirated as described later. The control unit 32 waits until the sample aspiration completion data is received (NO in step S312), and when the sample aspiration completion data is received (YES in step S312), the process proceeds to step S314.

  On the other hand, when the sample container T is not detected in step S309 (NO in step S309), the control unit 32 moves the sample rack L leftward by one sample (step S313), and the process proceeds to step S314. Proceed. In step S314, the control unit 32 determines whether i is 10 or more (step S314). If i is less than 10 (NO in step S314), i is incremented by 1 (step S315). ), The process returns to step S309.

  In step S314, when i is 10 or more (YES in step S314), the control unit 32 controls the transport mechanism 31 so that the sample rack L reaches the unloading position for unloading the sample rack L. (Step S316). Thereafter, the control unit 32 moves the process to step S318.

  On the other hand, if the used transport line instruction data included in the carry-in preparation instruction data indicates the skip line L2 in step S306, that is, if the skip line L2 is the transport line to be used (“skip” in step S306) Line L2 ”), the control unit 32 controls the transport mechanism 31 to transfer the sample rack L on the skip line L2 and reach the unloading position for unloading the sample rack L (step S317). Thereafter, the control unit 32 moves the process to step S318.

  In step S318, the control unit 32 transmits the carry-out request data including the rack ID assigned to the sample rack L to the system control device 8 (step S318). Thereafter, the control unit 32 waits for carry-out instruction data from the system control device 8 (NO in step S319). When the carry-out instruction data is received (YES in step S319), the control unit 32 drives the stepping motor 321b to remove the sample rack L. Unloading to the adjacent sample transport apparatus 3 (step S320), and unloading completion data is transmitted to the system control apparatus 8 (step S321). Then, the control unit 32 ends the process.

<Operation of Blood Cell Analyzer 5>
Next, the operation of the blood cell analyzer 5 will be described. The information processing unit 52 controls the operation of the measurement units 51, 51, 51 to measure the sample, and analyzes the measurement data obtained by the measurement.

  FIG. 35A and FIG. 35B are flowcharts showing the procedure of the sample analysis operation by blood cell analyzer 5 according to the present embodiment. First, the information processing unit 52 receives the suction instruction data transmitted from the control unit 32 of the sample transport apparatus 3 (step S401). When an event of receiving suction instruction data occurs in the CPU 521a, the process of step S402 is called. This suction instruction data includes the measurement unit ID of the measurement unit 51 to be operated.

  In step S402, the CPU 521a controls the sample container transport unit 515, extracts the sample container T at the supply position 35c from the sample rack L (step S402), controls the hand unit 515a to swing the sample container T, The internal specimen is agitated (step S403). Next, the CPU 521a controls the hand unit 515a to set the sample container T in the sample container setting unit 515b (step S404), and further controls the sample container transport unit 515 to place the sample container T in the barcode reading position. Transport to 516a (step S405). Next, the CPU 521a reads the sample barcode of the sample container T by the barcode reading unit 516, and acquires the sample ID (step S406). Further, the CPU 521a causes the communication interface 521g to transmit order request data including the sample ID to the host computer 9 (step S407), and inquires about the measurement order. Thereafter, the CPU 521a waits for reception of the measurement order (NO in step S408). When the measurement order transmitted from the host computer 9 is received by the communication interface 521g of the information processing unit 52 (YES in step S408), the reception is received. The measured measurement order is stored in the hard disk 521d (step S409).

  Next, the CPU 521a controls the sample container transport unit 515 to transport the sample container T to the suction position (step S410), controls the sample suction unit 511, and is necessary for the measurement items included in the stored measurement order. An amount of sample is aspirated from the sample container T (step S411). After the sample suction is completed, the CPU 521a controls the sample container transport unit 515 to return the sample container T to the sample rack L (step S412), and transports the sample suction completion data to the sample rack L. Is transmitted to the existing sample transport apparatus 3 (step S413). Thereby, the sample rack L is conveyed by the rack conveyance part 35 as mentioned above.

  Further, the CPU 521a controls the sample preparation unit 512, prepares a measurement sample according to the measurement item (step S414), supplies the measurement sample to the detection unit 513, and measures the sample by the detection unit 513 (step S414). S415). Thereby, the CPU 521a acquires the measurement data output from the detection unit 513. The CPU 521a executes measurement data analysis processing (step S416), classifies blood cells contained in the sample, counts the number of blood cells for each type, and the blood cells thus classified are color-coded for each type. Create a scattergram. The analysis result data generated by the measurement data analysis process is stored in the hard disk 521d together with the patient information included in the measurement order (step S417) and transmitted to the host computer 9 (step S418). The host computer 9 integrates the analysis result data into the measurement order described above and stores it in the hard disk. After completing the process of step S418, the CPU 521a ends the process.

<Operation of Sample Transport Device 301>
The sample rack L delivered from the sample transport device 3 located on the most downstream side in the transport direction is introduced into the rack slider 303. Although details are omitted, the rack slider 303 receives an instruction from the system control device 8 and sends the sample rack L to either the measurement line 302 a or the skip line 302 b of the conveyor 302. When the sample rack L is loaded into the measurement line 302a, the control unit of the conveyor 302 operates the measurement line 302a, and the specimen container T to be smeared is prepared at a supply position where the specimen is supplied to the smear preparation apparatus 6. The sample rack L is transported so as to be positioned. After the supply of the sample to the smear sample preparation device 6 is completed, the measurement line 302a is further driven, and the sample rack L is carried out to the sample storage device 4. When the sample rack L is carried into the skip line 302b, the control unit of the conveyor 302 operates the skip line 302b, conveys the sample rack L on the skip line 302b, and carries it out to the sample storage device 4. .

<Operation of specimen storage device 4>
The sample rack L sent from the sample transport device 301 is introduced into the sample storage device 4. The sample storage device 4 transports and stores the sample rack L on the rack placement unit.

  By adopting the above-described configuration, a sample rack L that accommodates a sample to be used for measurement without any abnormality, a sample whose shape of the sample container is not compatible with the system, a sample with insufficient sample amount, coagulation The sample rack L that contains the sample that should not be used for measurement, such as the sample that is being used, can be sorted, and thereby the sample processing system 1 can be configured to transport the sample that should not be used for measurement to the measurement unit 51. Operation stop can be prevented.

  Further, conventionally, when a sample that should not be used for the measurement as described above is supplied to the measurement unit, a sample aspiration error or the like in the measurement unit occurs and the operation of the sample processing system 1 stops. The operator needs to constantly monitor the sample processing system in preparation for the occurrence of such an abnormality. On the other hand, in the sample processing system 1 according to the present embodiment, since the sample rack L that stores the sample that should not be used for the measurement is stored in the rack storage unit 221, the operator constantly monitors the sample input device 2. After the sample rack L in which the abnormality is detected is stored in the rack storage unit 221, it is possible to take out the sample rack L from the rack storage unit 221 and take an appropriate measure. Improved convenience.

  Further, when an abnormality is detected in a plurality of sample racks L, these sample racks L are stored in the rack accommodating portion 221, so the operator needs to deal with each sample rack L whenever an abnormality occurs. Therefore, a plurality of sample racks L stored in the rack accommodating portion 221 can be processed together. This also improves the convenience for the operator.

  In addition, the liquid crystal display unit 227 displays in an identifiable manner which sample in the sample rack L is the sample in which the error has occurred (that is, it is determined that the sample should not be used for measurement). By simply confirming the detailed information screen displayed on the display unit 227, it is possible to specify which sample is the sample that requires treatment.

  In addition, since it is possible to specify what kind of error has occurred on the detailed information screen described above, the operator simply checks the detailed information screen displayed on the liquid crystal display unit 227 to determine what kind of error has occurred. It is possible to specify whether an abnormality has occurred, and therefore it is possible to easily and quickly determine what kind of treatment is required.

  Further, since the rack re-insertion unit 231 is provided in the sample delivery unit 23 provided at the subsequent stage of the sample check unit 22, it was determined that the sample should not be used for the measurement once. However, the user operation (for example, transfer of the sample container) is determined. When all the specimens stored in the sample rack L can be measured due to replacement, removal of the coagulated mass, etc.), the operator replaces the sample rack L with the rack re-input unit of the sample delivery unit 23 instead of the sample input unit 21. 231. Thereby, it is not necessary to read the sample ID of each sample of the sample rack L again by the sample barcode reader 21b, and the processing efficiency of the system can be improved.

(Other embodiments)
In the above-described embodiment, the sample processing system including the plurality of measurement units 51, 51, 51 and transporting the sample to each measurement unit has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this. A sample analyzer may be provided that includes one measurement unit and a sample transport unit, and transports the sample to the measurement unit by the sample transport unit. In this case, the specimen transport unit has a loading area where a plurality of sample racks containing specimens before analysis can be placed and a storage area where a plurality of sample racks containing specimens after analysis can be placed. Detecting the shape of the sample container accommodated in the sample rack L in the area, detecting the amount and / or coagulation of the sample accommodated in the sample container, and storing the sample rack in which the abnormality is detected, A configuration may be adopted in which a plurality of sample racks provided separately from the input area and the storage area are transported to a retreat area where the sample racks can be placed.

  In the above-described embodiment, the configuration for detecting the shape of the sample container, the amount of the sample accommodated in the sample container, and the coagulation of the sample has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this. The configuration may be such that any one or two of the shape of the sample container, the amount of the sample accommodated in the sample container, and the coagulation of the sample can be detected.

  In the above-described embodiment, processing is performed on an image obtained by imaging a vertical sample container, and the width of the sample container, the position of the bottom of the sample container, and the position of the blood surface in the image Although the configuration for detecting (height) and detecting the blood volume from these has been described, the present invention is not limited to this. The captured image obtained by imaging the sample container T in the vertical state is binarized, the area of the blood part specified by the binarized image is obtained, and the blood volume is calculated from this area by, for example, a look-up table or a calculation formula. It is good also as a structure to require.

  In the above-described embodiment, the configuration has been described in which it is determined whether or not the blood is coagulated by performing image processing on the image of the processing region 114 above the position of the blood surface image. However, the present invention is not limited to this. The captured image obtained by imaging the tilted specimen container is binarized to obtain a binarized image having different values for the blood part and the other part, and the “0” region and “ 1 ”is detected, and the portion protruding upward from the straight portion at the boundary with respect to the position (the height of the liquid level image) of the straight portion of the boundary, that is, the portion of the aggregate It is good also as a structure which determines whether there exists.

  In the above-described embodiment, among all the pixels included in the processing region 114 above the liquid level image of the specimen, the B value is equal to or less than a predetermined value, and the R / B luminance ratio is a predetermined value. The following pixels are counted, and when the number of pixels is equal to or larger than a predetermined value, it is determined that the blood is coagulated. When the number of pixels is less than the predetermined value, the blood is not coagulated. However, the present invention is not limited to this. The binarization process is performed on the image of the processing area 114 to set the blood part to “0”, for example, and set the other part to “1”. The area of the blood part thus obtained is set to a predetermined value. Compared with a reference value, it may be determined that blood is coagulated when the area is greater than or equal to the reference value, and that blood is not coagulated when the area is less than the reference value.

  In the above-described embodiment, image processing is performed using values related to the B value, the B luminance accumulated value, the R / B accumulated luminance ratio, and the B value of the R / B luminance ratio, and blood volume detection and Although the configuration for performing the blood coagulation determination process has been described, the present invention is not limited to this, and the G value may be used instead of the B value.

  In the above-described embodiment, the configuration in which the sample processing system 1 includes the blood cell analyzer 5 that classifies blood cells included in the sample and counts blood cells for each blood cell type is described. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. It is not something. The sample processing system includes a sample analyzer other than a blood cell analyzer such as an immune analyzer, a blood coagulation analyzer, a biochemical analyzer, a urine analyzer, etc., and transports a blood sample or a urine sample to the measurement unit of the sample analyzer It is good also as composition to do.

  In the above-described embodiment, the computer that operates as the system control device 8 performs the specimen container shape detection process, the blood volume detection process, and the blood coagulation determination process of the computer program 84a. Although a configuration has been described in which the amount of blood in the sample container is detected and the presence or absence of coagulation of the blood sample in the sample container is determined, the present invention is not limited to this. The configuration may be such that the specimen container shape detection process, the blood volume detection process, and the blood coagulation determination process are executed by dedicated hardware such as FPGA or ASIC that can execute the same process as the computer program.

  In the above-described embodiment, the configuration in which all processing of the computer program 84a is executed by the single computer 8a has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and processing similar to that of the computer program 84a described above is performed. It is also possible to make a distributed system in which a plurality of devices (computers) are executed in a distributed manner.

  The sample processing system and sample container sorting apparatus of the present invention are useful as a sample processing system for transporting a sample to a sample measuring unit for measuring a sample and a sample container sorting apparatus for sorting sample containers.

1 is a schematic plan view showing an overall configuration of a sample processing system according to an embodiment. The perspective view which shows the external appearance of a sample container. The perspective view which shows the external appearance of a sample rack. The top view which shows the structure of a sample insertion unit. The top view which shows the structure of a sample check unit. The front view which showed typically the one part structure of the sample check unit. The side view which shows schematic structure of the sample container tilting mechanism. The schematic diagram for demonstrating the advancing direction of the light emitted from the camera in the sample check unit concerning embodiment, white, a positional relationship with a sample container, and white LED. The top view which shows the structure of a sample conveyance apparatus. The front view which shows the structure of the 1st belt of a sample conveyance apparatus. The front view which shows the structure of the 2nd belt of a sample conveyance apparatus. The block diagram which shows the structure of the measurement unit with which a sample analyzer is provided. The block diagram which shows the structure of the information processing unit with which a sample analyzer is provided. The block diagram which shows schematic structure of the smear preparation apparatus. The flowchart (first half) which shows the flow of the sample sort operation | movement of a sample insertion device. The flowchart (the second half) which shows the flow of the sample classification operation | movement of a sample insertion device. The schematic diagram which shows the structure of storage instruction | indication data. The schematic diagram which shows the structure of storage rack information. The flowchart which shows the flow of the escape rack information display operation | movement of a sample loading device. The flowchart which shows the flow of the re-reading operation | movement of the barcode of a sample insertion device. The flowchart which shows the flow of the error information removal operation | movement of a sample insertion device. The flowchart which shows the flow of the storage rack removal operation | movement of a sample loading device. The figure which shows an example of the storage rack list screen. The figure which shows an example of the detailed information screen of a sample rack. Flow chart showing the flow of measurement order acquisition operation of the system controller The flowchart which shows the flow of the sample container shape detection process of a system control apparatus. The flowchart which shows the procedure of the blood volume detection process of a system control apparatus. The schematic diagram for demonstrating the process which detects the width | variety of the image of a sample container. The schematic diagram for demonstrating the process which detects the position of the right-and-left end of the image of a barcode label. The schematic diagram for demonstrating the process which detects the lower end position of a sample container image. The flowchart which shows the procedure of the blood coagulation determination processing of a system control apparatus. The schematic diagram for demonstrating the process which detects the left end position of the image of a sample container. The schematic diagram for demonstrating the process which detects the upper end position of a sample container bottom part image. The schematic diagram for demonstrating the process area | region for blood coagulation determination when the position detection of a blood surface image fails. The scattergram which shows the distribution state regarding the B value and R / B luminance ratio of the pixel in the process area | region in the image shown in FIG. FIG. 29 is a scattergram showing a distribution state relating to the B value and R / B luminance ratio of pixels in the processing region in the image shown in FIG. Scattergram showing a distribution state relating to the B value and R / B luminance ratio of the pixels in the processing region in blood in which blood coagulation has not occurred The flowchart which shows the procedure of the classification instruction | indication process by a system control apparatus. The flowchart which shows the procedure of the 1st conveyance instruction | indication process of a system control apparatus. The flowchart which shows the procedure of the 2nd conveyance instruction | indication process of a system control apparatus. The flowchart which shows the flow of the control process of the conveyance mechanism by the control part of a sample conveyance apparatus (the first half). The flowchart (latter half) which shows the flow of the control process of the conveyance mechanism by the control part of a sample conveyance apparatus. The flowchart which shows the procedure of the analysis operation | movement of the sample by the blood cell analyzer which concerns on embodiment (the first half). The flowchart (latter half) which shows the procedure of the analysis operation | movement of the sample by the blood cell analyzer which concerns on embodiment.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Sample processing system 2 Specimen input apparatus 2a Control part 21 Specimen input unit 21a Bar code reading part 21e Camera 211 Rack mounting part 22 Specimen check unit 221 Rack accommodating part 222c Handy bar code reader 225a, 225b Camera 227 Liquid crystal display part 23 Specimen Delivery unit 23a Bar code reader 231 Rack re-insertion unit 3 Sample transport device 31 Transport mechanism 32 Control unit 301 Sample transport device 4 Sample storage device 5 Blood cell analyzer 51 Measurement unit 52 Information processing unit 6 Smear preparation device 8 System control device 8a Computer 81 Main body 81a CPU
81c RAM
81d Hard disk 84a System control program 9 Host computer BL1 Bar code label BL2 Bar code label W1 Storage rack list A1 List display area B1 Display switching button W2 Detailed information screen

Claims (10)

A specimen container loading section that accepts loading of a specimen container containing a specimen;
Detecting means for detecting the shape of the sample container received by the sample container loading unit or the state of the sample accommodated in the sample container;
A sample measurement unit for measuring a sample contained in the sample container;
A transport unit for transporting the sample container;
A specimen container housing portion for housing the specimen container;
Control means;
A sample processing system comprising:
The control means includes
Based on a detection result of said detecting means, determines whether the specimen container is a specimen container to be supplied to the sample measuring section,
Before SL discrimination sample container to be sample container to be supplied to the sample measuring section and conveyed to the sample measuring section, before Symbol the discriminated sample container is not the specimen container to be supplied to the sample measuring section as conveyed toward the specimen container accommodating unit, and controls the transport unit,
The sample processing system includes:
A storage unit that stores information about a sample container that is determined not to be a sample container to be supplied to the sample measurement unit;
Display means;
Further comprising
The control means is configured to cause the display means to display information related to a sample container that is determined not to be a sample container to be supplied to the sample measurement unit based on information stored in the storage unit. ,
The sample processing system further includes a deletion instruction receiving unit that receives an instruction to delete information related to the sample container displayed by the display unit,
The control unit is configured to delete the information about the sample container from the storage unit when the deletion instruction receiving unit receives an instruction to delete the information about the sample container.
The sample processing system further includes a sample container re-input unit that accepts input of a sample container corresponding to information about the sample container deleted from the storage unit from a user,
The control unit is configured to control the transport unit so that the sample container received by the sample container re-insertion unit is transported toward the sample measurement unit without passing through the detection unit. Sample processing system. The transport unit is configured to transport a sample rack that can accommodate a plurality of sample containers,
The sample container storage unit is configured to store a sample rack,
The detection means is configured to detect the shape of the sample container or the state of the sample stored in the sample container for each sample container stored in the sample rack,
The control means controls the display means to display in a identifiable manner a sample container that is determined not to be a sample container to be supplied to the sample measurement unit in the sample rack stored in the sample container storage unit. The sample processing system according to claim 1, which is configured as follows . The sample container storage unit is configured to store a plurality of sample racks,
An input unit,
The control means controls the display means so as to selectably display rack specifying information for specifying a sample rack stored in the sample container storage section;
When the selection of the rack specifying information by the input unit is received, it is determined that the sample container stored in the sample rack corresponding to the selected rack specifying information is not the sample container to be supplied to the sample measuring unit. The sample processing system according to claim 2 , wherein the display unit is configured to control the display unit so that the specified sample container can be specified. The sample container feeding section is configured to accept the insertion of the sample rack having a sample rack identification information recording unit which records the sample rack identification information for identifying the sample rack,
A reading unit that reads out the sample rack specifying information of the sample rack from the sample rack specifying information recording unit of the sample rack put into the sample container charging unit;
The detection means is configured to detect the shape of the sample container accommodated in the sample rack loaded into the sample container loading unit or the state of the sample accommodated in the sample container,
The control means is configured to control the display means so as to selectably display the sample rack specific information of the sample rack stored in the sample container storage unit read by the reading unit. The sample processing system according to claim 3. Said control means, based on the sample container of the shape of the detection result of said detecting means, said sample container is configured to determine whether they comply with the specimen measuring section, according to claim 1 to 4 The sample processing system according to any one of the above. The detection means is configured to detect coagulation of a blood sample contained in a sample container;
The control means determines that the sample container in which coagulation of the blood sample has not been detected by the detection means is a sample container to be supplied to the sample measurement unit, and the coagulation of the blood sample has been detected by the detection means the sample container, the is configured to determine not the specimen container to be supplied to the sample measuring section, the specimen processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 4. The detection means is configured to detect the amount of the sample stored in the sample container,
The control means determines that a specimen container having a blood sample detected by the detecting means having a predetermined amount or more is a specimen container to be supplied to the specimen measuring unit, and the blood specimen detected by the detecting means sample processing system according to amount the sample container of less than a predetermined amount, the is configured to determine not the specimen container to be supplied to the sample measuring section, to any one of claims 1 to 4. The sample according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the sample container re-insertion unit is provided in the vicinity of the sample container storage unit on a transport path from the detection unit toward the sample measurement unit. Processing system. The sample processing system according to claim 1, wherein the sample container storage unit is provided in the vicinity of the sample container input unit. A specimen container loading section that accepts loading of a specimen container containing a specimen;
Detecting means for detecting the shape of the sample container received by the sample container loading unit or the state of the sample accommodated in the sample container;
A transport unit for transporting the sample container;
A sample container storage unit for storing a sample container for storing a sample;
Control means;
A sample container sorting apparatus comprising:
The control means includes
Based on a detection result of said detecting means, said sample container is determined whether or not a sample container to be supplied to the sample measuring section for measuring a specimen,
Wherein sending the determined sample container to be specimen sample container to be supplied to the measurement unit to the destination to be supplied to the sample measuring section, it is not determined to be the specimen container to be supplied to the sample measuring section specimen Controlling the transport unit to deliver the container to the specimen container storage unit;
The sample container sorting device is:
A storage unit that stores information about a sample container that is determined not to be a sample container to be supplied to the sample measurement unit;
Display means;
Further comprising
The control means is configured to cause the display means to display information related to a sample container that is determined not to be a sample container to be supplied to the sample measurement unit based on information stored in the storage unit. ,
The sample container sorting device further includes a deletion instruction receiving unit that receives an instruction to delete information related to the sample container displayed by the display unit,
The control unit is configured to delete the information about the sample container from the storage unit when the deletion instruction receiving unit receives an instruction to delete the information about the sample container.
The sample container sorting device further includes a sample container re-input unit that accepts input of a sample container corresponding to information about the sample container deleted from the storage unit from a user,
The control means is configured to control the transport section so as to send the sample container received by the specimen container re-insertion section to the destination without passing through the detection means. apparatus.