JP4705488B2 - Transport device and transport system - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a transport apparatus and a transport system, and more particularly to a transport apparatus and a transport system for transporting a rack in which a sample container is accommodated at a sample supply position of a sample processing apparatus that processes a sample in a sample container.

  Conventionally, a transport device for transporting a rack in which a sample container is accommodated is known to a sample supply position of a sample processing apparatus that processes a sample sample (see, for example, Patent Document 1). The sample sample to be processed by the sample processing apparatus is stored in a sample container stored in a rack.

  In the transport device disclosed in Patent Document 1 described above, the edge of the same shape (detection unit) provided for each predetermined pitch of the sample gantry (rack) transported by the belt is detected by a sensor. After stopping, the specimen sample in the specimen container accommodated in the specimen cradle is agitated or aspirated.

Japanese Utility Model Publication No. 6-770

  In the conventional transport apparatus disclosed in Patent Document 1, when the sample rack (rack) moves by one pitch in the transport direction or in the direction opposite to the transport direction, the sensor shifts by one pitch from the sample rack. Since the edge (detection unit) having the same shape is detected, it is difficult to detect that the specimen mount (rack) has been shifted by one pitch. In this case, since the sample rack (rack) is continuously transported without being judged as abnormal, there is a problem in that a sample container different from the sample container to be analyzed is supplied to the sample supply position of the sample processing apparatus. There is.

  The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and one object of the present invention is to ensure that a rack (sample sample) is reliably transported to the sample supply position of the sample processing apparatus. It is to provide a transport apparatus and a transport system that can be detected.

Means for Solving the Problems and Effects of the Invention

To achieve the above object, a transport apparatus according to a first aspect of the present invention is a transport apparatus for transporting a sample container accommodated in a rack to a sample supply position of a sample processing apparatus, and transports the rack. A transport mechanism that transports the sample container to the sample supply position, and a detection unit that detects information for specifying the position of the rack transported by the transport mechanism , and the detection unit transports a sign indicating the position. A position specifying member provided at predetermined intervals along the direction, and a sensor that is movable relative to the position specifying member and that acquires information for specifying the position of the rack by detecting a sign; including.

In the transport apparatus according to the first aspect, as described above, the transport mechanism unit that transports the sample container to the sample supply position by transporting the rack, and the information that specifies the position of the rack transported by the transport mechanism unit And detecting the position of the rack detected by the detection unit to determine whether or not the rack has been transported to a predetermined transport position when the transport mechanism transports the rack to the transport position. Can be confirmed based on the information to be. For this reason, even when the rack moves from the predetermined transport position by one pitch in the transport direction or in the direction opposite to the transport direction, the detection unit detects information specifying a transport position different from the predetermined transport position. Therefore, it can be detected that the rack has shifted and moved. As a result, even if the rack moves out of position, the movement of the rack can be detected, so that a sample container different from the sample container to be analyzed is not supplied to the sample supply position of the sample processing apparatus. can do. In addition, even when the rack moves in the transport direction or in the direction opposite to the transport direction with a shift of one pitch between adjacent marks, the sensor detects the marks provided at predetermined intervals, thereby Since the information specifying the position is acquired, it is possible to easily detect that the rack has shifted and moved.

  In the transport apparatus including the position specifying member provided with the mark, preferably, the mark includes a first mark, a second mark, and a third mark that are different from each other. If comprised in this way, since the sensor can detect the 1st label | marker, 2nd label | marker, and 3rd label | marker from which different information can be obtained, the rack conveyed by the conveyance mechanism part can be obtained. Can be reliably detected by the sensor to which of the first transport position, the second transport position, and the third transport position. As a result, even when the rack moves with a shift of one pitch in the transport direction or in the direction opposite to the transport direction, it is ensured that the rack has shifted due to a change in the information specifying the position detected by the sensor. Can be detected.

  In the transport device in which the sign includes a first sign, a second sign, and a third sign, preferably, the sign includes a first identifier and a second identifier that indicate one of two different pieces of information. The combination of information indicated by the first identifier and the second identifier is different between the second indicator and the third indicator, respectively. If comprised in this way, a different 3 1st label | marker, a 2nd label | marker, and a 3rd label | marker can be easily identified with a 1st identifier and a 2nd identifier.

  In the transport device in which the sign includes the first sign, the second sign, and the third sign, preferably, a plurality of the first sign, the second sign, and the third sign are provided, and the same sign is adjacent to each other. Arranged not to. According to this configuration, when the rack moves between the two signs by one pitch in the conveyance direction or in the direction opposite to the conveyance direction, the sensor can detect different signs, so the rack can be easily It is possible to detect that the movement has shifted.

  In the transport device in which the sign includes the first sign, the second sign, and the third sign, the first sign, the second sign, and the third sign are preferably provided in this order. With this configuration, when the rack moves one pitch at a time in the transport direction or in the direction opposite to the transport direction, the sensor can sequentially detect three different signs, so that the rack easily shifts. Can be detected.

  In the transport device in which the detection unit includes the position specifying member and the sensor, preferably, the position specifying member is fixedly arranged, and the sensor is arranged to be movable together with the rack. If comprised in this way, since a sensor and a rack can be moved integrally, the label | marker corresponding to the conveyance position of the position specific member fixedly arrange | positioned by a sensor can be detected easily.

  In the conveyance device in which the detection unit includes the position specifying member and the sensor, preferably, the sensor is fixedly arranged, and the position specifying member is arranged to be movable together with the rack. If comprised in this way, since a position specific member and a rack can be moved integrally, the label | marker corresponding to the conveyance position of a position specific member can be easily detected with the sensor arrange | positioned fixedly.

  In the transport device in which the detection unit includes a position specifying member and a sensor, preferably, the sensor is a transmission type sensor, and the sign is configured by a combination of a light transmission unit or a light shielding unit. If comprised in this way, a transmission type sensor can confirm whether the rack was conveyed to the conveyance position by detecting the combination of a translucent part or a light-shielding part.

  In the transport apparatus according to the first aspect, preferably, the transport mechanism section has an engaging section for moving the rack by engaging with the rack. If comprised in this way, a rack can be conveyed with the movement of a conveyance mechanism part by engaging an engaging part with a rack. Even when the rack is transported by the transport mechanism as described above, the rack can be reliably transported to the sample supply position of the sample processing apparatus by detecting the information specifying the position of the rack by the detection unit.

A transport system according to a second aspect of the present invention includes a sample processing apparatus that processes a sample in a sample container, a transport apparatus having the above-described configuration according to the first aspect, and a control unit that controls the operation of the transport apparatus. The control unit determines whether or not the sample container accommodated in the rack has been transported to the sample supply position based on information identifying the position of the rack detected by the detection unit.

In the transport system according to the second aspect, as described above, the sample processing device that processes the sample sample in the sample container, the transport mechanism unit that transports the sample container to the sample supply position by transporting the rack, and the transport mechanism And a sample container contained in the rack based on the information identifying the position of the rack detected by the detection unit and a transport device having a detection unit that detects information identifying the position of the rack being conveyed by the unit. A controller that determines whether or not the rack has been transported to the supply position, so that when the rack is transported to the sample supply position by the transport mechanism, the controller determines whether or not the rack has been transported to the sample supply position. The determination can be made based on the information specifying the position of the rack of the detection unit. Therefore, even when the rack is not transported to the sample supply position, the control unit can detect that the rack has shifted from the sample supply position. As a result, even if the rack moves out of position, it is possible to detect the deviation of the rack from the sample supply position, so that a sample container different from the sample container to be analyzed is supplied to the sample supply position of the sample processing apparatus. Can be prevented. In addition, even when the rack moves in the transport direction or in the direction opposite to the transport direction with a shift of one pitch between adjacent marks, the sensor detects the marks provided at predetermined intervals, thereby Since the information specifying the position is acquired, it is possible to easily detect that the rack has shifted and moved.

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

(First embodiment)
FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a state in which a transport apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention is connected to an analyzer. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a transport controller connected to the analyzer shown in FIG. 3 and 4 are a perspective view and a front view, respectively, showing the structure of the rack that is transported by the transport apparatus according to the first embodiment shown in FIG. First, with reference to FIGS. 1-4, the whole structure containing the 1st blood analyzer 2 and the 2nd blood analyzer 3 to which the conveying apparatus 1 by 1st Embodiment is connected is demonstrated.

  The transport apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment is connected to each of a first blood analyzer 2 for performing a primary analysis and a second blood analyzer 3 for performing a secondary analysis, for example, as shown in FIG. Is done. Further, the primary analysis by the first blood analyzer 2 is performed for all the specimen samples, and the secondary analysis by the second blood analyzer 3 is determined to require detailed analysis based on the result of the primary analysis. It is performed only for the specimen sample that has been processed. As shown in FIG. 2, the transport controller (personal computer) 91 is connected to the first blood analyzer 2 and the second blood analyzer 3 and to the transport device 1. The transport controller 91 has a function of controlling operations of the first blood analyzer 2, the second blood analyzer 3, and the transport device 1.

  The specimen sample is accommodated in the specimen container 4, and the specimen container 4 is accommodated in the rack 5. As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the rack 5 is configured to accommodate ten specimen containers 4. Further, the rack 5 has a lower portion 5 a having a length in the short side direction larger than a portion in which the sample container 4 is accommodated. In addition, a space area is provided on the back surface side of the rack 5, and a plurality of plate portions 5 b are provided in the space area on the back surface side of the rack 5. A plurality of grooves 5c are provided on the side surface of the portion of the rack 5 in which the sample container 4 is accommodated.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the transport device 1 transports the rack 5 in which the sample container 4 is stored to the sample supply positions 2 a and 3 a of the first blood analyzer 2 and the second blood analyzer 3. It has a function. In addition, the sample container 4 is taken out from the rack 5 to the sample supply position 2 a of the first blood analyzer 2, the sample sample in the sample container 4 is stirred, and the sample sample is placed in the first blood analyzer 2. A hand member 2b for supply is provided. In addition, the sample container 4 is taken out from the rack 5 to the sample supply position 3 a of the second blood analyzer 3, the sample sample in the sample container 4 is agitated, and the sample sample is placed in the second blood analyzer 3. A hand member 3b for supply is provided. Further, barcodes attached to the sample containers 4 are respectively placed at positions before the rack 5 of the sample supply position 2a of the first blood analyzer 2 and the sample supply position 3a of the second blood analyzer 3 is transported. Bar code reading units 2c and 3c for reading are provided.

  A sample container rotating device 6 for rotating the sample container 4 accommodated in the rack 5 is provided in an area corresponding to the position before the rack 5 at the sample supply positions 2a and 3a of the transport device 1 is transported. Is installed. The barcode attached to the specimen container 4 by the barcode reading units 2c and 3c is read by rotating the specimen container 4 by the specimen container rotating device 6.

  The two transfer devices 1 connected to each of the first blood analyzer 2 and the second blood analyzer 3 are connected via an intermediate transfer device 7. Further, the two transport devices 1 connected to each of the first blood analyzer 2 and the second blood analyzer 3 have the same structure.

  Moreover, the 1st blood analyzer 2, the 2nd blood analyzer 3, and the conveyance controller 91 contain the control parts 2d, 3d, and 91a, respectively, as shown in FIG. In addition, the control unit 91a of the transport controller 91 is connected to the control unit 2d of the first blood analyzer 2 and the control unit 3d of the second blood analyzer 3 so that wired or wireless communication is possible. . Further, the control unit 91a of the transport controller 91 reaches the sample supply position 2a (3a) of the transport device 1 based on a signal from the detection unit 34 of the transport device 1 to be described later. It has a function to judge whether or not. When the control unit 91a of the transport controller 91 determines that the sample container 4 accommodated in the rack 5 has reached the sample supply position 2a (3a) of the transport device 1, the control unit 91a removes the sample container 4 from the first blood analyzer. 2 (second blood analyzer 3) also has a function of instructing to be taken in.

  5 and 6 are a perspective view and a plan view, respectively, showing the structure of the transport apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention. 7 to 20 are detailed views showing the structure of the transport apparatus according to the first embodiment shown in FIGS. 5 and 6. Next, the structure of the transfer apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment will be described in detail with reference to FIGS.

  As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the transport apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment includes a carry-in unit 10, a storage unit 20, a lateral feed unit 30, a discharge unit 40, and a carry-out unit 50.

  The carrying-in part 10 of the conveying apparatus 1 is provided in order to push the rack 5 introduced from the inlet 1a of the conveying apparatus 1 to the storage part 20 side after moving it in the X1 direction. Further, the carry-in unit 10 includes a rack carry-in mechanism unit 11 and a rack push-out mechanism unit 12.

  The rack carry-in mechanism 11 of the carry-in unit 10 is provided to move the rack 5 introduced from the introduction port 1a in the X1 direction. The rack carry-in mechanism unit 11 includes a conveyance belt 111, pulleys 112a and 112b, a motor 113, a detection unit 114, and a transmission sensor 115. The conveyor belt 111 is attached to pulleys 112 a and 112 b, and the pulley 112 a is connected to the motor 113. As a result, when the motor 113 is driven, the conveyor belt 111 is driven via the pulley 112a. Therefore, when the rack 5 is introduced from the introduction port 1a, the rack 5 is moved in the X1 direction by driving the transport belt 111 in the X1 direction.

  The detection unit 114 of the rack carry-in mechanism unit 11 is provided to detect that the rack 5 moved in the X1 direction by the conveyor belt 111 has arrived at the push-out position P1. The extrusion position P1 is a position where the rack extrusion mechanism 12 can push the rack 5 toward the storage unit 20 side. The detection unit 114 includes a detection pin 114a, a compression spring 114b, and a transmission type sensor 114c. The detection pin 114a is urged by a compression spring 114b so that one end of the detection pin 114a protrudes toward the pushing position P1. The transmissive sensor 114c is disposed on the other end side of the detection pin 114a. When the rack 5 is transported to the pushing position P1 by the transport belt 111, one end of the detection pin 114a is pressed against the rack 5, so that the detection pin 114a resists the urging force of the compression spring 114b. Then, it is moved in the X1 direction. As a result, the transmissive sensor 114c is shielded from light by the other end of the detection pin 114a, so that it is detected that the rack 5 moved in the X1 direction by the conveyor belt 111 has arrived at the pushing position P1.

  Further, the transmission type sensor 115 of the rack carry-in mechanism unit 11 detects the presence or absence of the rack 5 at the push-out position P1, and also indicates that the rack 5 is pushed from the push-out position P1 to the storage unit 20 side by the rack push-out mechanism unit 12. It is provided for detection. The transmissive sensor 115 is arranged so as to be in a light-shielded state when the rack 5 is present at the pushing position P1.

  Further, the rack push-out mechanism 12 of the carry-in portion 10 is provided to push the rack 5 transported to the push-out position P1 toward the storage portion 20 side. The rack push-out mechanism 12 includes a push-out member 121, a linear motion guide 122, an arm 123, and a motor 124. The pushing member 121 is attached to the linear motion guide 122, and the linear motion guide 122 is disposed so as to extend along the Y1 direction (Y2 direction). An elongated hole 123 a is formed at one end of the arm 123. One end of the arm 123 is attached to the pushing member 121 through the elongated hole 123a, and the other end is connected to the rotating shaft of the motor 124. Accordingly, when the motor 124 is driven, one end of the arm 123 is rotated, and the pusher member 121 is moved along the extending direction (Y1 direction) of the linear motion guide 122. Therefore, when the rack 5 exists at the pushing position P1, the pushing member 121 can push the rack 5 toward the storage unit 20 side.

  The storage unit 20 of the transport apparatus 1 is provided to store the rack 5 transported from the inlet 1a to the sample supply position 2a (3a). Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the storage unit 20 also has a function of re-reserving the rack 5 moved in the direction opposite to the transport direction from the sample supply position 2a (3a) when reanalysis is performed. In addition, the storage unit 20 includes a storage plate 21, a first rack transport mechanism unit 22, transmission type sensors 23 and 24, a reversion preventing member 25, a storage regulation mechanism unit 26, and a barcode reading unit 27. It is out.

  The storage plate 21 of the storage unit 20 includes a rack contact part 21a, a storage regulation part 21b, a pair of hole parts 21c and a pair of hole parts 21d, and a notch part 21e. The rack contact portion 21 a is provided on the opposite side of the storage plate 21 from the carry-in portion 10 side. The rack contact portion 21a is formed by bending the storage plate 21 in a direction perpendicular to the placement surface 21f. And the area | region between the edge part (return prevention member 25) by the side of the carrying-in part 10 of the storage plate 21 and the rack contact part 21a is a storage area where the rack 5 can be stored. Further, an area of the size of the rack 5 corresponding to one end of the storage plate 21 on the carry-in section 10 side is a rack receiving position P2 for receiving the rack 5 pushed out from the carry-in section 10. Further, an area of the size of one rack 5 on the rack contact portion 21 a side of the storage plate 21 is a lateral feed start position P <b> 3 at which the transport of the rack 5 by the lateral feed unit 30 is started.

  The storage regulating portion 21b of the storage plate 21 is formed by bending a predetermined region of the rack contact portion 21a so as to be parallel to the placement surface 21f. That is, the storage restricting portion 21b is formed so as to protrude from the rack contact portion 21a to the side of the lateral feed start position P3 when seen in a plan view. The storage restricting portion 21b is provided to prevent an operator from placing the rack 5 at the lateral feed start position P3. Further, as shown in FIG. 7, the distance from the placement surface 21 f of the storage regulating portion 21 b is set to be smaller than the overall height of the rack 5 and larger than the height of the lower portion 5 a of the rack 5. ing. The amount of protrusion of the storage restricting portion 21b from the rack contact portion 21a is set so that the rack 5 does not contact the storage restricting portion 21b when the rack 5 (lower portion 5a) comes into contact with the rack contact portion 21a. Has been.

  5 and 6, the pair of holes 21c of the storage plate 21 are formed so as to extend from the rack receiving position P2 of the storage plate 21 to the lateral feed start position P3. The pair of holes 21d of the storage plate 21 are formed in a rectangular shape so as to have a length in the longitudinal direction substantially the same as the length in the short direction of the rack 5 (lower part 5a). Further, the pair of hole portions 21d of the storage plate 21 are located at a distance substantially equal to the length in the short direction of the rack 5 (lower portion 5a) from the rack contact portion 21a so as to sandwich the pair of hole portions 21c. Located in a remote area. The region in which the pair of holes 21d of the storage plate 21 is formed is a region where the storage of the rack 5 is restricted (storage restriction position P4). Further, the pair of notches 21 e of the storage plate 21 is formed at the end of the storage plate 21 on the carry-in portion 10 side.

  Here, in the first embodiment, the first rack transport mechanism unit 22 of the storage unit 20 moves the rack 5 stored on the placement surface 21f of the storage plate 21 from the rack receiving position P2 side to the lateral feed start position P3 side. In addition to the function of moving in the (Y1 direction), it also has a function of moving from the lateral feed start position P3 side to the rack receiving position P2 side (Y2 direction) in the direction opposite to the transport direction. As shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, the first rack transport mechanism unit 22 includes a drive unit 22a and a rack transport unit 22b. The drive unit 22a is provided to move the rack transport unit 22b in the Y1 direction (transport direction) and the Y2 direction (the direction opposite to the transport direction), and below the placement surface 21f of the storage plate 21. Has been placed. The drive unit 22 a includes a motor 221, an intermediate belt 222, a motor pulley 223, a large-diameter pulley 224, a drive belt 225, pulleys 226 a and 226 b, a tension pulley 227, and a linear guide 228. The intermediate belt 222 is attached to the motor pulley 223 and the large diameter pulley 224, and the motor pulley 223 is connected to the motor 221. The drive belt 225 is attached to the pulleys 226 a and 226 b and the small diameter portion 224 a of the large diameter pulley 224. In addition, tension (tension) is applied to the drive belt 225 by a tension pulley 227. Accordingly, when the motor 221 is driven, the drive belt 225 is decelerated and driven via the intermediate belt 222, the motor pulley 223, and the large diameter pulley 224. Further, the linear motion guide 228 is disposed so as to extend along the Y1 direction (Y2 direction).

  The rack transport section 22b of the first rack transport mechanism section 22 is provided to move the rack 5 stored on the mounting surface 21f of the storage plate 21 in the Y1 direction and the Y2 direction. The rack transport unit 22 b includes a first moving member 229 and a second moving member 230. The first moving member 229 is connected to the drive belt 225, and the second moving member 230 is attached to the linear motion guide 228. The second moving member 230 includes a pair of plate portions 230a arranged at a predetermined interval so as to face each other, and the first moving member 229 includes a pair of plate portions 230a of the second moving member 230. Arranged between. The second moving member 230 is configured to move following the movement of the first moving member 229 when the first moving member 229 moves by driving the drive belt 225.

  Specifically, the shaft 231 is attached between the pair of plate portions 230a of the second moving member 230, and the first moving member 229 extends in the direction in which the shaft 231 extends (Y1 direction and Y2 direction). ) Is slidably fitted. The shaft 231 is provided with a compression spring 232 for biasing the first moving member 229 in the Y2 direction. As a result, as shown in FIGS. 8 and 10, when the first moving member 229 is moved in the Y1 direction by the drive belt 225 (when the first moving member 229 moves from the position of FIG. 8 to the position of FIG. 10). ), The first moving member 229 presses one plate portion 230a of the second moving member 230 in the Y1 direction via the compression spring 232, so that the second moving member 230 moves along the linear motion guide 228 in the Y1 direction. Moved to. When the first moving member 229 is moved in the Y2 direction by the drive belt 225 (when the first moving member 229 is moved from the position of FIG. 10 to the position of FIG. 8), the first moving member 229 is the first moving member 229. Since the other plate portion 230a of the second moving member 230 is pressed in the Y2 direction, the second moving member 230 is moved in the Y2 direction along the linear motion guide 228.

  Also, as shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, a cylinder 233 and a linear guide 234 are attached to the second moving member 230 of the rack transport unit 22b. The cylinder 233 is disposed so that the cylinder rod 233a extends in a direction (Z direction) perpendicular to the mounting surface 21f of the storage plate 21, and the linear motion guide 234 is disposed so as to extend in the Z direction. ing. A shaft holder 235 is attached to the cylinder rod 233a and the linear motion guide 234. Thereby, the shaft holder 235 is moved along the direction (Z direction) in which the linear motion guide 234 extends when the cylinder rod 233a extends in the Z direction.

  In addition, a shaft 236 is attached to the shaft holder 235 of the rack transport unit 22b, and a pair of engagement claws 237a and a pair of engagement claws 237b are fulcrums about the shaft center of the shaft 236. It is attached so that rotation is possible. One of the pair of engaging claws 237 a is disposed at one end of the shaft 236, and the other of the pair of engaging claws 237 a is disposed at the other end of the shaft 236. One of the pair of engaging claws 237b is disposed at one end of the shaft 236, and the other of the pair of engaging claws 237b is disposed at the other end of the shaft 236. Further, as shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, the engaging claws 237a and 237b protrude from the mounting surface 21f via the pair of holes 21c of the storage plate 21 when the shaft holder 235 moves in the Z direction. Are arranged to be. The engaging claws 237a and 237b have engaging surfaces 237c and 237d that engage with the inner surface of the lower portion 5a of the rack 5, respectively. As a result, when the engaging claws 237a and 237b are protruded from the mounting surface 21f and the rack transport unit 22b is moved in the Y1 direction (Y2 direction), the engaging surfaces 237c (237d) of the engaging claws 237a (237b). ), The rack 5 is moved in the Y1 direction (Y2 direction). When the rack 5 is moved in the Y1 direction, as shown in FIG. 11, the engaging claws 237a are engaged with the inner surface of the lower portion 5a of the rack 5, and the rack 5 is moved in the Y2 direction. As shown in FIG. 12, the engaging claw 237 b is engaged with the inner surface of the lower portion 5 a of the rack 5.

  11 and 12, the engaging claw 237a of the rack transport section 22b is attached to the shaft holder 235 so that the engaging surface 237c and the inner surface of the lower portion 5a of the rack 5 are parallel to each other. The tension spring 238a is biased. The engaging claw 237b is biased by a tension spring 238b attached to the shaft holder 235 so that the engaging surface 237d and the inner surface of the lower portion 5a of the rack 5 are parallel to each other. Therefore, when an external force is applied to the engaging claws 237a (237b) from above, the engaging claws 237a (237b) are rotated in a predetermined direction against the urging force of the tension spring 238a (238b). . In addition, when the external force from above on the engaging claws 237a (237b) is removed, the tension springs so that the engaging surface 237c (237d) and the inner surface of the lower portion 5a of the rack 5 are parallel to each other. The engaging claw 237a (237b) is rotated in the direction opposite to the predetermined direction by the biasing force of 238a (238b).

  8 and 9, the detection piece 239 is attached to the first moving member 229 of the rack transport section 22b, and the transmission sensor 240 is attached to the second moving member 230. ing. The detection piece 239 and the transmission sensor 240 are provided to detect that the first rack transport mechanism unit 22 has stopped transporting the rack 5 in the Y1 direction. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 10, when the second moving member 230 is stopped, the detection piece 239 and the transmission sensor 240 are moved when the first moving member 229 further moves in the Y1 direction. The transmission sensor 240 is arranged in a light-shielded state by the detection piece 239.

  As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the transmission type sensor 23 of the storage unit 20 is provided to detect the presence or absence of the rack 5 in the storage region other than the lateral feed start position P <b> 3 of the storage unit 20. The transmission type sensor 23 is arranged to be in a light-shielded state when at least one rack 5 is stored in a storage area other than the lateral feed start position P3 of the storage unit 20. The transmission type sensor 24 of the storage unit 20 is provided to detect that the rack 5 moved in the Y1 direction from the rack receiving position P2 side has arrived at the lateral feed start position P3. The transmissive sensor 24 is arranged so as to be in a light-shielded state when the rack 5 arrives at the lateral feed start position P3.

  Further, the reversing prevention member 25 of the storage unit 20 is provided to prevent the rack 5 pushed from the pushing position P1 to the rack receiving position P2 from returning from the rack receiving position P2 to the pushing position P1. The reversion preventing member 25 is disposed in a region corresponding to the cutout portion 21 e of the storage plate 21. Further, as shown in FIG. 13, the reversion preventing member 25 has a vertical surface 25a perpendicular to the mounting surface 21f of the storage plate 21, and an inclined surface 25b inclined at a predetermined angle with respect to the vertical surface 25a. . As shown in FIGS. 13 and 14, when the rack 5 passes through the boundary between the pushing position P <b> 1 and the rack receiving position P <b> 2, the reverse prevention member 25 rotates to the lower side of the storage plate 21. And after the rack 5 passes the boundary of the extrusion position P1 and the rack receiving position P2, it is comprised so that it may rotate to the upper side of the storage plate 21, and may return to an initial state (state of FIG. 13). Further, the reverse prevention member 25 is configured not to rotate with respect to an external force in the Y2 direction.

  Further, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the storage restriction mechanism portion 26 of the storage portion 20 is provided to restrict the storage of the rack 5 at the storage restriction position P <b> 4 of the storage plate 21. As shown in FIGS. 6 and 15, the storage restriction mechanism portion 26 includes a pair of storage restriction members 261 and a pair of cylinders 262. The cylinder 262 is disposed such that the cylinder rod 262a extends in a direction (Z direction) perpendicular to the placement surface 21f of the storage plate 21. The cylinder rod 262a is attached to a surface of the storage plate 21 opposite to the mounting surface 21f via the bracket 263. For this reason, as shown in FIG. 16, when the cylinder rod 262 a is extended in the Z direction, the main body portion of the cylinder 262 moves in the Z direction toward the storage plate 21.

  The storage regulating member 261 is attached to the main body portion of the cylinder 262 opposite to the cylinder rod 262a. In addition, the storage regulating member 261 is disposed so as to protrude from the mounting surface 21f through the hole 21d of the storage plate 21 when the main body portion of the cylinder 262 moves in the Z direction. As shown in FIG. 6, the storage regulating member 261 is formed in a rectangular shape when viewed from the top like the hole portion 21 d of the storage plate 21, and in the short direction of the rack 5 (lower part 5 a). It has a longitudinal length substantially the same as the length. For this reason, as shown in FIG. 16, when the storage regulating member 261 protrudes from the placement surface 21f, the storage regulating member 261 regulates the storage of the rack 5 at the storage regulating position P4. When the storage regulating member 261 protrudes from the placement surface 21f, the end of the storage regulating member 261 on the side of the lateral feed start position P3 and the side of the lateral regulation start position P3 of the storage regulation portion 21b of the storage plate 21 are located. Since the distance to the end is smaller than the length of the rack 5 (lower part 5a) in the short direction, the storage of the rack at the lateral feed start position P3 is also restricted.

  As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the barcode reading unit 27 of the storage unit 20 is provided to read the barcode of the rack 5 moving from the rack receiving position P2 side to the lateral feed start position P3 side. Yes.

  Here, in the first embodiment, the lateral feed unit 30 of the transport apparatus 1 is provided to transport the rack 5 transported to the lateral feed start position P3 to the sample supply position 2a (3a) and the discharge unit 40. ing. The lateral feed unit 30 is configured to transport the rack 5 at intervals of about 20 mm (intervals between adjacent specimen containers 4 accommodated in the rack 5). Furthermore, in the first embodiment, when the reanalysis is performed, the lateral feed unit 30 moves the rack 5 transported to the discharge unit 40 side again to the lateral feed start position P3 in the direction opposite to the transport direction. It is configured to be possible. Further, as shown in FIGS. 17 and 18, the lateral feed unit 30 includes a lateral feed plate 31, a drive unit 32, a rack transport unit 33, and a detection unit 34.

  As shown in FIG. 6, a hole 31b that extends from a lateral feed start position P3 to a later-described discharge start position P5 is formed in the transport surface 31a of the lateral feed plate 31 of the lateral feed section 30.

  As shown in FIGS. 17 and 18, the drive unit 32 of the lateral feed unit 30 moves the rack transport unit 33 in the X1 direction (transport direction) and the X2 direction (the direction opposite to the transport direction). It is provided and is arranged below the conveyance surface 31 a of the lateral feed plate 31. The drive unit 32 includes a motor 321, a drive belt 322, pulleys 323 a and 323 b, and a linear guide 324. The motor 321 is connected to the pulley 323a, and the drive belt 322 is attached to the pulleys 323a and 323b. Thereby, when the motor 321 is driven, the drive belt 322 is driven via the pulley 323a. The linear motion guide 324 is arranged so as to extend along the X1 direction (X2 direction).

  Here, in the first embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the rack transport unit 33 of the lateral feed unit 30 moves the rack 5 on the transport surface 31 a of the lateral feed plate 31 from the lateral feed start position P <b> 3. In addition to the function of moving to the discharge start position P5 (X1 direction), it also has a function of moving from the discharge start position P5 to the lateral feed start position P3 (X2 direction). 6, the initial position 30a in FIG. 6 is a position where the rack 5 is started by the rack transport unit 33, and the lateral feed end position 30b in FIG. 6 is the rack transport unit 33. This is the position where the lateral feed of the rack 5 is finished. As shown in FIGS. 17 and 18, the rack transport unit 33 includes a moving member 331, a solenoid 332, a linear motion guide 333, an engaging member 334, and a transmission type sensor 335. The moving member 331 is connected to the drive belt 322 and attached to the linear guide 324. Thereby, when the drive belt 322 is driven, the moving member 331 is moved along the direction in which the linear motion guide 324 extends (X1 direction and X2 direction). The solenoid 332 is attached to the moving member 331 and is disposed so that the rod 322a of the solenoid 332 extends in a direction perpendicular to the transport surface 31a of the lateral feed plate 31 (Z direction). Further, the linear motion guide 333 is attached to the moving member 331 and is disposed so as to extend along the Z direction. Further, the engaging member 334 is attached to the rod 322 a and the linear motion guide 333 of the solenoid 332. Thereby, the engaging member 334 is moved along the extending direction (Z direction) of the linear motion guide 333 by the rod 332a of the solenoid 332 extending in the Z direction.

  In the first embodiment, the engagement member 334 of the rack transport unit 33 is integrally provided with a first engagement unit 334a and a second engagement unit 334b. Further, as shown in FIGS. 19 and 20, the first engaging portion 334 a and the second engaging portion 334 b are inserted through the hole portion 31 b of the lateral feed plate 31 when the engaging member 334 moves in the Z direction. Are arranged so as to protrude from the transport surface 31a. Accordingly, as shown in FIG. 19, when the first engaging portion 334a and the second engaging portion 334b are projected from the transport surface 31a and the rack transport portion 33 is moved in the X1 direction, the first engaging portion When the inner surface of the rack 5 on the first sample container 4 side is engaged with 334a, the rack 5 is moved in the X1 direction. Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 20, the plate portion 5b on the 10th sample container 4 side of the rack 5 is engaged with the second engagement portion 334b, and the first sample of the rack 5 is engaged with the first engagement portion 334a. By engaging the inner surface on the container 4 side, the two racks 5 are simultaneously moved in the X1 direction in series. 19 and 20 show a state where the rack 5 is moved in the X1 direction. That is, in FIG. 19, when the rack 5 is moved in the X2 direction, the first engaging member 334a engages with the plate portion 5b on the first specimen container 4 side of the rack 5. In FIG. 20, when the rack 5 is moved in the X2 direction, the first engagement member 334a engages with the plate portion 5b on the first specimen container 4 side of the rack 5, and the second engagement member. 334b engages with the inner surface of the rack 5 on the 10th specimen container 4 side.

  Further, as shown in FIGS. 17 and 18, in the transmission type sensor 335 of the rack transport unit 33, the first engagement unit 334 a and the second engagement unit 334 b protrude from the transport surface 31 a of the lateral feed plate 31. Is provided to detect. When the first engaging portion 334a and the second engaging portion 334b protrude from the conveyance surface 31a of the lateral feed plate 31, the transmission sensor 335 is shielded from light by the detection piece 334c attached to the engaging member 334. It is arranged to be.

  The detection unit 34 of the lateral feed unit 30 is provided to detect the position of the rack transport unit 33 that moves in the X1 direction and the X2 direction. The detection unit 34 includes transmission sensors 341a and 341b, transmission sensors 342a and 342b, and a detection plate 343. The transmissive sensor 341a is provided to detect that the rack transporter 33 has been moved to the initial position 30a (see FIG. 6). The transmissive sensor 341a is disposed so as to be shielded from light by the detection piece 331a of the moving member 331 constituting the rack transport unit 33 when the rack transport unit 33 is moved to the initial position 30a. The transmission sensor 341b is provided to detect that the rack transport unit 33 has been moved to the lateral feed end position 30b (see FIG. 6). The transmission type sensor 341b is arranged so that it is shielded by a detection piece (not shown) of the moving member 331 constituting the rack transport unit 33 when the rack transport unit 33 is moved to the lateral feed end position 30b. Has been.

  Here, in the first embodiment, the transmission sensors 342 a and 342 b of the detection unit 34 are provided to detect the transport position of the rack 5. The transmission sensors 342a and 342b are attached to a moving member 331 that constitutes the rack transport unit 33. In addition, the light emitting units and the light receiving units of the transmission sensors 342a and 342b are arranged to face each other with the detection plate 343 interposed therebetween. The transmission sensors 342a and 342b are arranged at a predetermined interval in the movement direction (X1 direction and X2 direction) of the rack transport unit 33. Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the detection plate 343 of the detection unit 34 includes a plurality of rectangular detection holes 343a to 343h arranged along the movement direction (X1 direction and X2 direction) of the rack transport unit 33. Have. The detection holes 343a to 343h are provided to change the transmissive sensors 342a and 342b to a transmission (ON) state or a light shielding (OFF) state. The detection holes 343a to 343h are arranged so that the transmissive sensors 342a and 342b are moved each time the rack transport unit 33 is moved by 1 pitch in the X1 direction when the rack transport unit 33 is moved at a pitch of about 20 mm in the X1 direction. The at least one state (ON state and OFF state) is changed. Thus, each time the rack transport unit 33 is moved by one pitch in the X1 direction, the combination of the ON state and the OFF state in the transmission sensors 342a and 342b is changed. That is, the position of the rack transport unit 33 is detected by a combination of the ON state and the OFF state in the transmission sensors 342a and 342b.

  In the detection unit 34, when the transmission sensor 342a is located in a region corresponding to the detection hole 343a, the rack transport unit 33 is moved to the initial position 30a (see FIG. 6). When the transmission sensor 342a is located in the region corresponding to the detection hole 343g, the rack transport unit 33 is moved to the lateral feed end position 30b (see FIG. 6). The detection holes 343a to 343g are arranged in this order in the X1 direction (from the initial position 30a to the lateral feed end position 30b). Further, the detection hole 343h is arranged at a predetermined interval on the X2 direction side of the detection hole 343a.

  As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the discharge unit 40 of the transport device 1 can carry out the rack 5 transported from the lateral feed unit 30 to the discharge unit 40 from the carry-out port 1 b by the carry-out unit 50. It is provided for transporting to various positions. Further, the discharge unit 40 includes a discharge plate 41, a second rack transport mechanism unit 42, and transmission type sensors 43 and 44.

  The discharge plate 41 of the discharge portion 40 includes a rack contact portion 41a and a pair of hole portions 41b. Note that the region of the size of the rack 5 corresponding to one side of the discharge plate 41 on the side of the lateral feed unit 30 is a discharge start position P5 at which the discharge of the rack 5 is started in the discharge unit 40. In addition, an area of the size of the rack 5 corresponding to one side of the discharge plate 41 opposite to the discharge start position P5 (on the carry-out part 50 side) is started to be carried out from the carry-out port 1b of the rack 5 by the carry-out part 50. The unloading start position P6. The rack contact portion 41a is provided on the discharge start position P6 side of the discharge plate 41. The rack contact portion 41a is formed by bending the discharge plate 41 in a direction perpendicular to the discharge surface 41c. Further, the pair of holes 41b of the discharge plate 41 are formed to extend from the discharge start position P5 of the discharge plate 41 to the unloading start position P6.

  The second rack transport mechanism 42 of the discharge unit 40 is provided to move the rack 5 on the discharge surface 41c of the discharge plate 41 in the Y2 direction, and below the discharge surface 41c of the discharge plate 41. Has been placed. The second rack transport mechanism 42 has a pair of engaging members 421 that engage with the inner surface of the lower portion 5a of the rack 5 when the rack 5 is moved in the Y2 direction. Further, the engaging member 421 is disposed in a region corresponding to the hole 41b of the discharge plate 41, and is driven in the Y2 direction (Y1 direction) along the hole 41b by a driving unit of the second rack transport mechanism unit 42 (not shown). ) Is configured to be movable. Furthermore, the engaging member 421 is configured to protrude from the discharge surface 41c through the hole 41b of the discharge plate 41 when the rack 5 is moved in the Y2 direction.

  The transmission sensor 43 of the discharge unit 40 is provided to detect that the rack 5 moved in the X1 direction from the lateral feed unit 30 has arrived at the discharge start position P5. The transmissive sensor 43 is arranged so as to be in a light shielding state when the rack 5 arrives at the discharge start position P5. The transmission sensor 44 of the discharge unit 40 is provided to detect that the rack 5 moved in the Y2 direction from the discharge start position P5 has arrived at the carry-out start position P6. The transmissive sensor 44 is arranged so as to be in a light-shielded state when the rack 5 arrives at the unloading start position P6.

  Moreover, the carrying-out part 50 of the conveying apparatus 1 is provided in order to carry out the rack 5 conveyed by the discharge part 40 to the carrying-out start position P6 from the carrying-out exit 1b. The carry-out unit 50 includes a rack transport member 51, a motor 52, a drive belt 53, pulleys 54a and 54b, and a linear motion guide 55.

  The rack transport member 51 of the unloading unit 50 is provided to move the rack 5 transported to the unloading start position P6 in the X1 direction (the unloading port 1b side). The motor 52 is connected to the pulley 54a, and the drive belt 53 is attached to the pulleys 54a and 54b. Thereby, when the motor 52 is driven, the driving belt 53 is driven via the pulley 54a. Moreover, the linear motion guide 55 is arrange | positioned so that it may extend along a X1 direction (X2 direction). The rack transport member 51 is connected to the drive belt 53 and attached to the linear motion guide 55. Thereby, when the drive belt 53 is driven, the moving member 51 is moved along the direction in which the linear motion guide 55 extends (X1 direction and X2 direction).

  Next, the carrying operation of the carrying device 1 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

  First, as shown in FIG. 21, the first rack 5 is introduced into the carry-in portion 10 of the transport apparatus 1 through the introduction port 1a. At this time, the carry-in unit 10 drives the conveyance belt 111 of the rack carry-in mechanism unit 11. Thus, the first rack 5 is conveyed from the introduction port 1a to the extrusion position P1 (see FIG. 6) by the conveyance belt 111. At this time, the detection unit 114 detects that the first rack 5 has arrived at the pushing position P1. Further, the transmission type sensor 115 detects that the first rack 5 is present at the pushing position P1.

  Then, as shown in FIG. 22, after the first rack 5 is transported to the extrusion position P <b> 1 in the carry-in unit 10, the extrusion member 121 of the rack extrusion mechanism unit 12 is moved in the Y <b> 1 direction. As a result, the first rack 5 is pushed out from the pushing position P1 to the rack receiving position P2 (see FIG. 6). At this time, the transmission type sensor 115 detects that the first rack 5 has been pushed from the pushing position P1 to the rack receiving position P2. Further, the transmission type sensor 23 of the storage unit 20 detects that the first rack 5 exists in the rack receiving position P2 (storage region other than the lateral feed start position P3 of the storage unit 20).

  Thereafter, as shown in FIG. 23, the first rack 5 pushed to the rack receiving position P2 in the storage unit 20 is moved to Y1 by the engaging claw 237a (see FIG. 6) of the first rack transport mechanism unit 22. Move in the direction. At this time, the storage restriction member 261 of the storage restriction mechanism portion 26 is stored below the placement surface 21 f of the storage plate 21.

  Accordingly, as shown in FIG. 24, the first rack 5 that is moved in the Y1 direction by the engaging claw 237a (see FIG. 6) of the first rack transport mechanism 22 is moved in the Y1 direction by the storage regulating member 261. It is conveyed to the lateral feed start position P3 (see FIG. 6) without being hindered. At this time, the transmission type sensor 24 detects that the first rack 5 has arrived at the lateral feed start position P3.

  Further, when the first rack 5 arrives at the lateral feed start position P3 (see FIG. 6) in the storage unit 20, the first rack 5 comes into contact with the rack contact part 21a of the storage plate 21, The movement of the first rack 5 in the Y1 direction stops. At this time, as shown in FIG. 10, the rack transport unit 22 b constituting the first rack transport mechanism unit 22 operates as follows. That is, the drive belt 225 driven by the motor 221 is connected to the first moving member 229 of the rack transport unit 22b, and the engaging claw 237a that engages with the first rack 5 is not attached. Therefore, when the motor 221 is driven, the first moving member 229 continues to move in the Y1 direction. On the other hand, the driving belt 225 is not connected to the second moving member 230 of the rack transport unit 22b, and an engaging claw 237a that engages with the first rack 5 is attached via various components. Therefore, the movement of the second moving member 230 in the Y1 direction is stopped. As a result, only the first moving member 229 moves in the Y1 direction against the urging force of the compression spring 232, so that the detecting piece 239 attached to the first moving member 229 is attached to the second moving member 230. The transmissive sensor 240 is in a light shielding state. As a result, it is detected that the first rack transport mechanism 22 has finished transporting the first rack 5 to the lateral feed start position P3.

  Thereafter, as shown in FIG. 25, the first rack 5 transported to the lateral feed start position P3 by the lateral feed unit 30 is pitched at about 20 mm in the X1 direction (pitch between adjacent specimen containers 4). By moving, the sample container 4 accommodated in the first rack 5 is sequentially transported to the sample supply position 2a (3a). Further, the second to fourth racks 5 are transported to the storage area of the storage unit 20 in the same manner as the first rack 5. At this time, in the storage unit 20, the storage regulation member 261 of the storage regulation mechanism unit 26 is protruded from the placement surface 21 f of the storage plate 21. As a result, the storage restriction member 261 restricts conveyance of the second and subsequent racks 5 to the storage restriction position P4.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 26, when the first rack 5 is completely moved from the lateral feed start position P3 in the storage unit 20, the storage control member 261 of the storage control mechanism unit 26 (FIG. 6). Is stored below the mounting surface 21 f of the storage plate 21. Then, in a state where the storage regulating member 261 is stored below the mounting surface 21f of the storage plate 21, the second to fourth racks 5 are engaged with the engaging claws 237a (see FIG. 6) to move in the Y1 direction. At this time, the second to fourth racks 5 are moved in the Y1 direction until the second rack 5 is conveyed to the lateral feed start position P3 (see FIG. 6).

  Thereafter, as shown in FIG. 27, in the storage unit 20, the third and fourth racks 5 are opposite to the transport direction by the engaging claws 237 b (see FIG. 6) of the first rack transport mechanism unit 22. Is moved in the Y2 direction. At this time, the third and fourth racks 5 are moved in the Y2 direction until the third rack 5 is transported to the storage area adjacent to the storage regulation position P4. Thereafter, the storage restricting member 261 of the storage restricting mechanism portion 26 is projected from the placement surface 21 f of the storage plate 21.

  Here, an operation when it is determined that reanalysis is necessary for the sample in the sample container 4 accommodated in the first rack 5 in the state shown in FIG. 27 will be described.

  When it is determined that the reanalysis is necessary for the sample sample in the sample container 4 accommodated in the first rack 5, as shown in FIG. The storage regulating member 261 (see FIG. 6) is stored below the placement surface 21f of the storage plate 21. Thereafter, in a state where the storage regulating member 261 is stored below the placement surface 21f of the storage plate 21, the second rack 5 is engaged with the engaging claws 237b of the first rack transport mechanism unit 22 (see FIG. 6). Thus, the sheet is conveyed to the storage restriction position P4 (see FIG. 6).

  Next, as shown in FIG. 29, the first rack 5 is moved in the X2 direction (the direction opposite to the transport direction) by the lateral feed unit 30 to move the first rack 5 in the lateral feed start position P3. (See FIG. 6). Thereafter, as shown in FIG. 30, the first rack 5 transported to the lateral feed start position P <b> 3 is moved again in the X <b> 1 direction at a pitch of about 20 mm by the lateral feed unit 30. The rack 5 is transported again to the sample supply position 2a (3a).

  Thereafter, after the first rack 5 is completely moved from the lateral feed start position P3, the second rack 5 is laterally fed by the engaging claws 237a (see FIG. 6) of the first rack transport mechanism unit 22. By returning to the start position P3, the state before the reanalysis (see FIG. 27) is restored.

  Next, the conveying operation by the lateral feeding unit 30 will be described in detail.

  First, as shown in FIG. 31, in the initial state, the rack transport unit 33 constituting the lateral feed unit 30 is moved to the initial position 30a. When the rack transport unit 33 moves in the X1 direction at a pitch of about 20 mm, the transmission sensors 342a and 342b of the rack transport unit 33 operate as follows.

  That is, as shown in FIG. 31, when the rack transport unit 33 is moved to the initial position 30a, the transmissive sensor 342a is in a transmissive (ON) state and the transmissive sensor 342b is in a light-shielded (OFF) state. become. As shown in FIG. 32, when the rack transport unit 33 is moved by about 20 mm (1 pitch) from the initial position 30a, the transmission sensor 342a is turned off and the transmission sensor 342b is turned on. Is transferred to the first transfer position 30c. As shown in FIG. 33, when the rack transport unit 33 is moved by about 40 mm (2 pitches) from the initial position 30a, the transmissive sensor 342a is turned on and the transmissive sensor 342b is turned off. Is transferred to the second transfer position 30d. As shown in FIG. 34, when the rack transport unit 33 is moved by about 60 mm (3 pitches) from the initial position 30a, the third transport position 30e in which both the transmission sensors 342a and 342b are turned on. To be transported. That is, in the first embodiment, the rack 5 includes the first transport position 30c and the transmissive sensor 342a in which the transmissive sensor 342a is in a light shielding (OFF) state and the transmissive sensor 342b is in a transmissive (ON) state. Is in the transmission (ON) state and the transmission sensor 342b is in the light shielding (OFF) state, and the second transport position 30d is in the transmission (ON) state and the transmission sensor 342c is in the transmission (ON) state. It is transported to any one of the three transport positions 30e. The first transport position 30c, the second transport position 30d, and the third transport position 30e are provided so as to be sequentially adjacent in this order in the transport direction (X1 direction).

  In this way, each time the rack transport unit 33 is moved by one pitch in the X1 direction, the rack 5 is transported to any one of the transport positions 30c, 30d, and 30e described above. Thus, every time the pitch is moved, the sheet is always transferred to different transfer positions (first transfer position 30c, second transfer position 30d, and third transfer position 30e). Thereby, when the position of the rack 5 is shifted by 1 pitch, the shift can be easily detected.

  Further, in the lateral feed unit 30, when the first rack 5 is moved by about 40 mm from the initial position 30a by the rack transport unit 33 (see FIG. 33), the first sample container of the first rack 5 is used. 4 is read. Further, as shown in FIG. 35, when the first rack 5 is moved by about 80 mm (4 pitches) from the initial position 30a by the rack transport section 33, the first sample container of the first rack 5 is used. The four specimen samples are agitated by the hand member 2b (see FIG. 1) of the first blood analyzer 2. As shown in FIG. 36, when the first rack 5 is moved from the initial position 30a by about 100 mm (5 pitches) by the rack transporter 33, the first sample container of the first rack 5 is used. The four specimen samples are supplied to the first blood analyzer 2 (second blood analyzer 3) (see FIG. 1) by the hand member 2b (3b).

  If it is determined that reanalysis is necessary for the sample in the sample container 4 accommodated in the first rack 5, the rack transporter 33 is moved in the X2 direction as shown in FIG. At this time, the rack transport unit 33 is moved in the X2 direction until the transmission sensor 342a of the rack transport unit 33 reaches an area corresponding to the detection hole 343h. At this time, the transmission sensors 342a and 342b are in an ON state and an OFF state, respectively.

  Then, as shown in FIG. 38, the first rack 5 is moved at a pitch of about 20 mm in the X1 direction by the lateral feed portion 30 to move the first rack 5 to the discharge start position P5 (see FIG. 6). ). At this time, the transmission type sensor 43 of the discharge unit 40 detects that the first rack 5 has arrived at the discharge start position P5.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 39, in the discharge section 40, the first transported to the discharge start position P5 (see FIG. 6) by the engaging member 421 (see FIG. 6) of the second rack transport mechanism section 42. The first rack 5 is transported to the unloading start position P6 (see FIG. 6) by moving the rack 5 in the Y2 direction. At this time, the transmission type sensor 44 of the discharge unit 40 detects that the first rack 5 has arrived at the unloading start position P6.

  Finally, as shown in FIG. 40, after the first rack 5 is transported to the unloading start position P6 in the unloading unit 50, the rack transporting member 51 is moved in the X1 direction. As a result, the first rack 5 transported to the unloading start position P6 is moved in the X1 direction, so the first rack 5 is unloaded from the unloading port 1b.

  In the first embodiment, as described above, the lateral feed unit 30 for transporting the rack 5 to the sample supply positions 2a and 3a of the first blood analyzer 2 or the second blood analyzer 3, and the transport position of the rack 5 Transmissive sensors 342a and 342b for detecting the detection, and detection hole portions indicating the transport positions (first transport position 30c, second transport position 30d, and third transport position 30e) that can be detected by the transmissive sensors 342a and 342b By providing 343a to 343g, when the rack 5 is transported to any one of the first transport position 30c, the second transport position 30d, and the third transport position 30e by the lateral feed unit 30, the rack 5 is transported. The transmission type sensors 342a and 342b detect whether or not they have been transported to the positions (first transport position 30c, second transport position 30d, and third transport position 30e). It can be confirmed by detecting a hole 343A～343g. Therefore, even when the rack 5 is moved by one pitch in the X1 direction or the X2 direction from the transport position (the first transport position 30c, the second transport position 30d, and the third transport position 30e), the transmission sensor 342a and Due to the change in the detection state of 342b, it is possible to reliably detect that the rack 5 has shifted and moved. As a result, even if the rack 5 moves out of position, the movement of the rack 5 can be detected, so that it is originally analyzed at the sample supply positions 2a and 3a of the first blood analyzer 2 or the second blood analyzer 3. It is possible to prevent the supply of the specimen container 4 different from the specimen specimen 4 to be supplied.

  In the first embodiment, the first transport position 30c, the second transport position 30d, and the third transport position 30e are provided so as to be adjacent to each other in this order, so that the rack 5 moves in the X1 direction or the X2 direction. When moving between one transport position (the first transport position 30c, the second transport position 30d, and the third transport position 30e) by one pitch (20 mm), the detection state of the transmissive sensor 342a and the transmissive sensor 342b is changed. Since it is possible to sequentially change in three different detection states, it is possible to easily detect that the rack 5 has shifted and moved.

  In the first embodiment, in the storage unit 20, the first rack transport mechanism 22 for transporting the rack 5 received at the rack receiving position P2 to the lateral feed start position P3 is changed from the lateral feed start position P3 side to the rack. By configuring so that the rack 5 can be moved in the direction opposite to the transport direction toward the receiving position P2, the first rack transport mechanism unit 22 can perform the lateral feed start position without intervention of an operator. The rack 5 can be moved in the direction opposite to the transport direction (Y2 direction) from the P3 side toward the rack receiving position P2 side. As a result, when the sample sample in the sample container 4 accommodated in the first rack 5 is reanalyzed by the same analyzer (the first blood analyzer 2 or the second blood analyzer 3), the lateral feed is started. The first rack 5 transported from the position P3 to the sample supply position 2a (3a) is transported again in the reverse direction to the lateral feed start position P3 and re-stored in the storage unit 20, and the re-stored one When the eye rack 5 is transported again from the lateral feed start position P3 to the sample supply position 2a (3a), the first rack transport mechanism 22 has already transported the eye rack 5 to the lateral feed start position P3 without an operator. Since the second rack 5 can be moved to a region other than the lateral feed start position P3 of the storage unit 20, the first rack 5 is stored again in the storage unit 20 (lateral feed start position P3). Can be secured. As a result, when reanalyzing the specimen sample with the same analyzer (the first blood analyzer 2 or the second blood analyzer 3), the first blood analyzer 2 or the second blood is not involved without an operator. The rack 5 (specimen sample) can be transported to the analyzer 3 again.

  In the first embodiment, the first rack transport mechanism portion 22 is configured to include the engaging claws 237a and 237b that engage with the rack 5, so that the engaging claws 237a of the first rack transport mechanism portion 22 are configured. And 237b, the rack 5 can be moved one by one. In this case, by setting the area of the size of one rack 5 adjacent to the rack receiving position P2 side of the lateral feed start position P3 as an area where the storage of the rack 5 is restricted (storage restriction position P4), When the specimen sample in the specimen container 4 accommodated in the first rack 5 is reanalyzed by the same analyzer (the first blood analyzer 2 or the second blood analyzer 3), the lateral feed start position P3 is set. By transporting only the second rack 5 that has already been transported to a region (storage restriction position P4) adjacent to the rack receiving position P2 side of the lateral feed start position P3, the first rack 5 is easily stored in the storage section 20. An area for re-reserving the rack 5 (lateral feed start position P3) can be secured.

(Second Embodiment)
FIG. 41 is a plan view showing the structure of the transport apparatus according to the second embodiment of the present invention. 42 and 43 are detailed views showing the structure of the transport apparatus according to the second embodiment shown in FIG. With reference to FIGS. 4 and 41 to 43, in the second embodiment, a case will be described in which the rack 5 is transported by the transport belt 825 in the storage unit 80, unlike the first embodiment. Note that the rack 5 transported by the transport apparatus 100 according to the second embodiment is the same as the rack 5 shown in FIGS. 3 and 4.

  As shown in FIG. 41, the transport apparatus 100 according to the second embodiment includes a carry-in unit 70, a storage unit 80, a lateral feed unit 30, a discharge unit 40, and a carry-out unit 50. The configurations of the lateral feed unit 30, the discharge unit 40, and the carry-out unit 50 of the transport device 100 according to the second embodiment are the same as those of the lateral feed unit 30, the discharge unit 40, and the carry-out unit 50 of the transport device 1 according to the first embodiment. The configuration is the same.

  The carry-in unit 70 of the transfer device 100 is provided to carry the rack 5 introduced from the introduction port 100a of the transfer device 100 into the storage unit 80 side by moving in the X1 direction. The carry-in unit 70 includes a drive unit 71, a rack transport unit 72, and transmission type sensors 73a and 73b.

  The drive unit 71 of the carry-in unit 70 is provided to move the rack transport unit 72 in the X1 direction and the X2 direction. The drive unit 71 includes a motor 711, a drive belt 712, pulleys 713a and 713b, and a linear guide 714. The motor 711 is connected to the pulley 713a, and the drive belt 712 is attached to the pulleys 713a and 713b. As a result, the driving belt 712 is driven via the pulley 713a when the motor 711 is driven. Moreover, the linear motion guide 714 is arrange | positioned so that it may extend along a X1 direction (X2 direction).

  In addition, the rack transport unit 72 of the carry-in unit 70 is provided to move the rack 5 introduced from the introduction port 100a in the X1 direction, and also has a function as a storage regulating member. 41, the carry-in start position 70a is a position where the rack transport unit 72 starts to carry in the rack 5, and the carry-in end position 70b in FIG. 41 is the end of carry-in of the rack 5 by the rack transport unit 72. It is a position to be done. The rack transport unit 72 includes a moving member 721, a solenoid 722, and a micro switch 723. The moving member 721 is connected to the drive belt 712 and attached to the linear motion guide 714. As a result, the driving belt 712 is driven in the X1 direction, whereby the moving member 721 is moved along the linear guide 714 in the X1 direction. Further, the moving member 721 has an abutting portion 721a with which the rack 5 introduced from the introduction port 100a abuts. Note that the rack 5 is moved in the X1 direction by the rack transport unit 72 in a state of being in contact with the contact portion 721a of the moving member 721.

  Further, the micro switch 723 of the rack transport unit 72 is attached to the contact part 721 a of the moving member 721. The microswitch 723 is arranged so that the switch portion of the microswitch 723 is pressed by the rack 5 when the rack 5 comes into contact with the contact portion 721 a of the moving member 721. Accordingly, when the rack 5 comes into contact with the contact portion 721a of the moving member 721, the micro switch 723 is switched from the ON (OFF) state to the OFF (ON) state, so that the rack 5 contacts the contact portion 721a. The contact is detected.

  In addition, the solenoid 722 of the rack transport unit 72 is attached to the moving member 721. The solenoid 722 is inserted into the groove 5c (see FIG. 4) of the rack 5 so that the rod 722a of the solenoid 722 extends in the Y1 direction, and the rod 722a contacts the contact portion 721a of the moving member 721. It is arranged so that. Thus, when the rod 722a of the solenoid 722 is inserted into the groove 5c of the rack 5 and the rack transporter 72 is moved in the X1 direction, the groove 5c of the rack 5 is engaged with the rod 722a of the solenoid 722. The rack 5 is moved in the X1 direction.

  Further, the transmission type sensors 73a and 73b of the carry-in unit 70 are provided for detecting the position of the rack transport unit 72 that moves in the X1 direction and the X2 direction. That is, the transmissive sensor 73a is provided to detect that the rack transporter 72 has been moved to the carry-in start position 70a. The transmissive sensor 73a is installed so as to be shielded from light by a detection piece (not shown) of the moving member 721 constituting the rack transporter 72 when the rack transporter 72 is moved to the carry-in start position 70a. ing. The transmission sensor 73b is provided to detect that the rack transporter 72 has been moved to the carry-in end position 70b. The transmission type sensor 73b is installed so as to be shielded from light by a detection piece (not shown) of the moving member 721 constituting the rack transporter 72 when the rack transporter 72 is moved to the carry-in end position 70b. ing. When the rack transport unit 72 is moved to the carry-in start position 70a, the moving member 721 constituting the rack transport unit 72 is located in a predetermined area above the storage plate 81 described later. On the other hand, when the rack transport unit 72 is moved to the carry-in end position 70b, the moving member 721 constituting the rack transport unit 72 is located in a region shifted from the storage plate 81 described later.

  The storage unit 80 of the transport apparatus 100 is provided to store the rack 5 transported from the introduction port 100a to the sample supply position 2a (3a). Furthermore, in the second embodiment, the storage unit 80 also has a function of re-reserving the rack 5 that has been moved in the direction opposite to the transport direction from the sample supply position 2a (3a) when reanalysis is performed. The storage unit 80 includes a storage plate 81, a first rack transport mechanism unit 82, and a barcode reading unit 83.

  The storage plate 81 of the storage unit 80 is divided into three, and the three divided storage plates 81 are arranged at a predetermined interval from each other. Furthermore, the storage plate 81 is disposed so as to have a region through which the rack transport unit 72 (the contact portion 721a of the moving member 721) of the carry-in unit 70 that moves in the X1 direction (X2 direction) passes. The storage plate 81 has a rack contact portion 81a. The rack contact portion 81a is provided on the opposite side of the storage plate 81 from the carry-in portion 70 side. The rack abutting portion 81a is formed by bending the storage plate 81 in a direction perpendicular to the placement surface 81b. A region between the end of the storage plate 81 on the carry-in portion 70 side and the rack contact portion 81a is a storage region in which the rack 5 can be stored. Further, in the storage plate 81, a region through which the rack transport unit 72 of the carry-in unit 70 passes is a rack receiving position P <b> 22 for receiving the rack 5 transported by the carry-in unit 70. Further, the region of the size of one rack 5 on the rack contact portion 81a side of the storage plate 81 is a lateral feed start position P23 at which the transport of the rack 5 by the lateral feed unit 30 is started.

  Here, in 2nd Embodiment, when the rack conveyance part 72 (moving member 721) of the carrying-in part 70 is moved to the carrying-in start position 70a, storage to the rack receiving position P22 of the rack 5 by the moving member 721 is controlled. Is done. That is, when the rack transport unit 72 (moving member 721) of the carry-in unit 70 is moved to the carry-in start position 70a, the rack transport unit 72 (moving member 721) regulates the storage of the rack 5 at the rack receiving position P22. Functions as a storage regulating member. When the rack transport unit 72 is moved to the carry-in end position 70b, the rack transport unit 72 (moving member 721) is located in a region displaced from the storage plate 81, so the rack transport unit 72 (moving member 721) is It does not function as a storage regulating member. In addition, the rack transport unit 72 has the rack 5 to the rack receiving position P22 when there is an area where the rack 5 can store at least one rack 5 in an area other than the rack receiving position P22 of the storing section 80. Is configured to start loading.

  Further, the first rack transport mechanism 82 of the storage unit 80 moves the rack 5 stored on the placement surface 81b of the storage plate 81 from the rack receiving position P22 side to the lateral feed start position P23 side (Y1 direction). In addition to the function, it also has a function of moving from the lateral feed start position P23 side to the rack receiving position P22 side (Y2 direction) in the direction opposite to the transport direction. The first rack transport mechanism 82 is disposed below the placement surface 81 b of the storage plate 81. As shown in FIGS. 42 and 43, the first rack transport mechanism 82 includes a cylinder 821, a linear motion guide 822, a holder 823, a motor 824, two transport belts 825, a pair of pulleys 826a, A pair of pulleys 826b, a plurality of tension pulleys 827, a pulley shaft 828, a drive belt 829, and a transmission type sensor 830 are included. The cylinder 821 is arranged such that the cylinder rod 821a extends in a direction (Z direction) perpendicular to the placement surface 81b of the storage plate 81, and the linear motion guide 822 extends in the Z direction. Has been placed. The holder 823 is attached to the cylinder rod 821a and the linear guide 822. Accordingly, the holder 823 is moved along the direction in which the linear motion guide 822 extends (Z direction) when the cylinder rod 821a extends in the Z direction.

  In the first rack transport mechanism 82, the motor 824, the pair of pulleys 826 a and the pair of pulleys 826 b, and the plurality of tension pulleys 827 are attached to the holder 823. In addition, the pair of pulleys 826a are arranged to face each other with a predetermined interval, and the pair of pulleys 826b are arranged to face each other with the same distance as the distance between the pair of pulleys 826a. Has been. The two conveyor belts 825 are attached to pulleys 826a and 826b on one side and pulleys 826a and 826b on the other side, respectively. In addition, when the holder 823 moves in the Z direction, the conveyance belt 825 on one side and the other side protrudes from the placement surface 81b through a region corresponding to each of the three storage plates 81 divided. Are arranged as follows. Further, tension (tension) is applied to the conveyor belt 825 attached to the pulleys 826a and 826b by a plurality of tension pulleys 827.

  In the first rack transport mechanism 82, the pulley shaft 828 is connected to a pair of pulleys 826a, and the drive belt 829 is attached to the rotating shaft of the motor 824 and the pulley shaft 828. Accordingly, when the motor 824 is driven, the transport belt 825 is driven via the drive belt 829, the pulley shaft 828, and the pulley 826a. Further, when the transport belt 825 is driven in the Y1 direction (Y2 direction) in a state of protruding from the placement surface 81b, the rack 5 comes into contact with the transport belt 825 to be driven, so that the rack 5 is in the Y1 direction ( Y2 direction).

  Further, the transmission type sensor 830 of the first rack transport mechanism 82 is provided to detect that the transport belt 825 protrudes from the placement surface 81 b of the storage plate 81. The transmissive sensor 830 is disposed so as to be shielded from light by the detection piece 823 a attached to the holder 823 when the transport belt 825 protrudes from the placement surface 81 b of the storage plate 81.

  44 to 48 are schematic views for explaining the transport operation of the transport device according to the second embodiment of the present invention. Next, with reference to FIG. 41 and FIGS. 44 to 48, the rack transport operation of the transport apparatus 100 according to the second embodiment will be described.

  First, as shown in FIG. 44, in the storage unit 80, the first to sixth racks 5 sequentially conveyed from the carry-in unit 70 are moved in the Y1 direction (conveyance) by the conveyance belt 825 of the first rack conveyance mechanism unit 82. Direction). Then, by moving the first rack 5 transported to the lateral feed start position P23 (see FIG. 41) by the lateral feed unit 30 at a pitch of about 20 mm in the X1 direction (transport direction), the first The rack 5 is transported to the sample supply position 2a (3a). When the first rack 5 is completely moved from the lateral feed start position P23, the second to sixth racks 5 are moved in the Y1 direction by the transport belt 825 of the first rack transport mechanism unit 82. Move to. At this time, the second to sixth racks 5 are moved in the Y1 direction until the second rack 5 is conveyed to the lateral feed start position P23. Thereafter, the rack transport unit 72 of the carry-in unit 70 is moved to the carry-in start position 70a (X2 direction).

  Here, the operation when it is determined that reanalysis is necessary for the sample in the sample container 4 accommodated in the first rack 5 in the state shown in FIG. 44 will be described.

  When it is determined that the reanalysis is necessary for the sample sample in the sample container 4 accommodated in the first rack 5, as shown in FIG. Move to end position 70b (X1 direction).

  Then, as shown in FIG. 46, the second to sixth racks 5 are moved in the Y2 direction, which is the direction opposite to the transport direction, by the transport belt 825 of the first rack transport mechanism unit 82. At this time, the second to sixth racks 5 are moved in the Y2 direction until the sixth rack 5 is transported to the rack receiving position P22 (see FIG. 41).

  Next, as shown in FIG. 47, the first rack 5 is moved in the X2 direction, which is the direction opposite to the transport direction, by the lateral feed unit 30, thereby moving the first rack 5 in the lateral feed start position P23. Move to. Thereafter, as shown in FIG. 48, the first rack 5 transported to the lateral feed start position P23 is moved again in the X1 direction at a pitch of about 20 mm by the lateral feed unit 30, thereby The rack 5 is transported again to the sample supply position 2a (3a). Then, after the first rack 5 is completely transported from the lateral feed start position P23, the second rack 5 is transported to the lateral feed start position P23 by the transport belt 825 of the first rack transport mechanism 82. To return to the state before reanalysis (see FIG. 44).

  In addition, the conveyance operation of the rack 5 in the lateral feed unit 30, the discharge unit 40, and the carry-out unit 50 of the second embodiment is the rack 5 in the horizontal feed unit 30, the discharge unit 40, and the carry-out unit 50 of the first embodiment, respectively. This is the same as the carrying operation.

  In the second embodiment, as described above, the first rack transport mechanism 82 is configured to include the transport belt 825 for moving the rack 5, so that the transport belt 825 of the first rack transport mechanism 82. Thus, all the racks 5 stored in the region other than the rack receiving position P22 of the storage unit 80 can be simultaneously moved from the lateral feed start position P23 side to the rack receiving position P22 side in the direction opposite to the transport direction. In this case, when the rack receiving position P22 is set as an area where the storage of the rack 5 is restricted, the sample sample in the sample container 4 accommodated in the first rack 5 is reanalyzed by the same analyzer. The second rack 5 that has already been transported to the lateral feed start position P23 can be moved together with the third and subsequent racks 5 to a region other than the lateral feed start position P23 of the storage unit 80. In the storage unit 80, a region (lateral feed start position P23) where the first rack 5 is stored again can be secured.

  The embodiment disclosed this time should be considered as illustrative in all points and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is shown not by the above description of the embodiments but by the scope of claims for patent, and further includes all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the scope of claims for patent.

  For example, in the first and second embodiments, the transport apparatus of the present invention is connected to the blood analyzer, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the transport of the present invention to a sample processing apparatus other than the blood analyzer. Devices may be connected.

  In the first embodiment, the transversal sensor 342a of the rack transport unit 33 is provided by providing detection holes (translucent holes (translucent portions)) 343a to 343h in the detection plate 343 in the lateral feed unit 30. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the present invention is not limited to this. By providing a light-shielding part that can be detected by the sensors 342a and 342b, the transmission-type sensor 342a and the rack-type transport part 33 The transmission state and the light shielding state of 342b may be changed.

  In the first embodiment, an example in which two transmission sensors 342a and 342b are used has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and one or three or more transmission sensors may be used. Good. For example, when three transmissive sensors are used, eight different patterns can be provided except for a pattern in which all three transmissive sensors are OFF.

  Moreover, in the said 1st and 2nd embodiment, in the storage part, the rack was conveyed by the 1st moving mechanism part which has an engaging claw or a conveyance belt, However, This invention is not limited to this, An engaging claw Or you may make it convey a rack by 1st movement mechanism parts other than the 1st movement mechanism part which has a conveyance belt.

  In the first embodiment, an example in which the two transmission sensors 342a and 342b are attached to the moving member 331 configuring the rack transport unit 33 and the detection plate 343 is fixed has been described. Not limited to this, the detection plate may be attached to a moving member constituting the rack transport unit, and the plurality of transmission sensors may be fixed so that patterns having different states can be detected.

It is the perspective view which showed the state by which the conveying apparatus by 1st Embodiment of this invention was connected to the analyzer. It is the block diagram which showed the conveyance controller connected to the analyzer shown in FIG. It is the perspective view which showed the structure of the rack conveyed by the conveying apparatus by 1st Embodiment shown in FIG. It is the front view which showed the structure of the rack conveyed by the conveying apparatus by 1st Embodiment shown in FIG. It is the perspective view which showed the structure of the conveying apparatus by 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is the top view which showed the structure of the conveying apparatus by 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is the side view which showed the structure of the storage regulation mechanism part periphery of the conveying apparatus by 1st Embodiment shown in FIG. 5 and FIG. It is the top view which showed the structure of the 1st rack conveyance mechanism part of the conveying apparatus by 1st Embodiment shown in FIG. 5 and FIG. It is a side view of the 1st rack conveyance mechanism part shown in FIG. FIG. 9 is a plan view showing a state when rack transport by the first rack transport mechanism section shown in FIG. 8 is stopped. FIG. 10 is a side view showing a state in which the engaging claws of the first rack transport mechanism shown in FIG. 9 are engaged with the rack. FIG. 10 is a side view showing a state in which the engaging claws of the first rack transport mechanism shown in FIG. 9 are engaged with the rack. It is the side view which showed the structure of the back-return prevention member periphery of the conveying apparatus by 1st Embodiment shown in FIG. 5 and FIG. FIG. 14 is a side view showing a state in which the reversion preventing member shown in FIG. 13 is rotating. It is the side view which showed the structure of the storage regulation mechanism part periphery of the conveying apparatus by 1st Embodiment shown in FIG. 5 and FIG. It is the side view which showed the state which the storage control member of the storage control mechanism part shown in FIG. 15 protrudes from the mounting surface of a storage plate. It is the top view which showed the structure of the horizontal feed part of the conveying apparatus by 1st Embodiment shown in FIG. 5 and FIG. FIG. 18 is a side view of the lateral feed portion shown in FIG. 17. FIG. 19 is a side view showing a state in which the engaging member of the lateral feed portion shown in FIG. 18 is engaged with the rack. FIG. 19 is a side view showing a state in which the engaging member of the lateral feed portion shown in FIG. 18 is engaged with the rack. It is a schematic diagram for demonstrating the conveyance operation of the conveying apparatus by 1st Embodiment shown in FIG. 5 and FIG. It is a schematic diagram for demonstrating the conveyance operation of the conveying apparatus by 1st Embodiment shown in FIG. 5 and FIG. It is a schematic diagram for demonstrating the conveyance operation of the conveying apparatus by 1st Embodiment shown in FIG. 5 and FIG. It is a schematic diagram for demonstrating the conveyance operation of the conveying apparatus by 1st Embodiment shown in FIG. 5 and FIG. It is a schematic diagram for demonstrating the conveyance operation of the conveying apparatus by 1st Embodiment shown in FIG. 5 and FIG. It is a schematic diagram for demonstrating the conveyance operation of the conveying apparatus by 1st Embodiment shown in FIG. 5 and FIG. It is a schematic diagram for demonstrating the conveyance operation of the conveying apparatus by 1st Embodiment shown in FIG. 5 and FIG. It is a schematic diagram for demonstrating the conveyance operation of the conveying apparatus by 1st Embodiment shown in FIG. 5 and FIG. It is a schematic diagram for demonstrating the conveyance operation of the conveying apparatus by 1st Embodiment shown in FIG. 5 and FIG. It is a schematic diagram for demonstrating the conveyance operation of the conveying apparatus by 1st Embodiment shown in FIG. 5 and FIG. It is a schematic diagram for demonstrating the conveyance operation | movement of the horizontal feed part of the conveying apparatus by 1st Embodiment shown in FIG. 5 and FIG. It is a schematic diagram for demonstrating the conveyance operation | movement of the horizontal feed part of the conveying apparatus by 1st Embodiment shown in FIG. 5 and FIG. It is a schematic diagram for demonstrating the conveyance operation | movement of the horizontal feed part of the conveying apparatus by 1st Embodiment shown in FIG. 5 and FIG. It is a schematic diagram for demonstrating the conveyance operation | movement of the horizontal feed part of the conveying apparatus by 1st Embodiment shown in FIG. 5 and FIG. It is a schematic diagram for demonstrating the conveyance operation | movement of the horizontal feed part of the conveying apparatus by 1st Embodiment shown in FIG. 5 and FIG. It is a schematic diagram for demonstrating the conveyance operation | movement of the horizontal feed part of the conveying apparatus by 1st Embodiment shown in FIG. 5 and FIG. It is a schematic diagram for demonstrating the conveyance operation | movement of the horizontal feed part of the conveying apparatus by 1st Embodiment shown in FIG. 5 and FIG. It is a schematic diagram for demonstrating the conveyance operation of the conveying apparatus by 1st Embodiment shown in FIG. 5 and FIG. It is a schematic diagram for demonstrating the conveyance operation of the conveying apparatus by 1st Embodiment shown in FIG. 5 and FIG. It is a schematic diagram for demonstrating the conveyance operation of the conveying apparatus by 1st Embodiment shown in FIG. 5 and FIG. It is the top view which showed the structure of the conveying apparatus by 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is the top view which showed the structure of the 1st rack conveyance mechanism part of the conveying apparatus by 2nd Embodiment shown in FIG. FIG. 43 is a side view of the first rack transport mechanism unit shown in FIG. 42. It is a schematic diagram for demonstrating the conveyance operation of the conveying apparatus by 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is a schematic diagram for demonstrating the conveyance operation of the conveying apparatus by 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is a schematic diagram for demonstrating the conveyance operation of the conveying apparatus by 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is a schematic diagram for demonstrating the conveyance operation of the conveying apparatus by 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is a schematic diagram for demonstrating the conveyance operation of the conveying apparatus by 2nd Embodiment of this invention.

Explanation of symbols

1, 100 Conveying device (conveying system)
2 First blood analyzer (specimen processing device, transport system)
2a Sample supply position 3 Second blood analyzer (sample processing device, transport system)
3a Specimen supply position 4 Specimen container 5 Rack 30 Horizontal feed part (conveyance mechanism part, conveyance path)
33 Rack transport section (transport mechanism section)
91 Transport controller (control unit, transport system)
91a Control part 334a 1st engaging part (engaging part)
334b Second engaging portion (engaging portion)
342a Transmission type sensor (detection unit, sensor)
342b Transmission type sensor (detection unit, sensor)
343 Detection plate (detection unit, position specifying member)
343a-343g Detection hole (detection part, label)

Claims (10)

A transport device for transporting a sample container accommodated in a rack to a sample supply position of a sample processing apparatus,
A transport mechanism that transports the sample container to the sample supply position by transporting the rack;
A detection unit that detects information specifying the position of the rack being conveyed by the conveyance mechanism unit ;
The detection unit is movable relative to the position specifying member and a position specifying member in which a mark indicating the position is provided at predetermined intervals along the conveyance direction, and detects the mark And a sensor that acquires information for specifying the position of the rack . The transport device according to claim 1 , wherein the sign includes a first sign, a second sign, and a third sign that are different from each other. The indicator includes a first identifier and a second identifier that indicate one of two different pieces of information;
The transport device according to claim 2 , wherein the first mark, the second mark, and the third mark have different combinations of information indicated by the first identifier and the second identifier, respectively. The first label, the second label and said third label, respectively, together with the multiply provided, the same label with each other are arranged so as not adjacent, the transport apparatus according to claim 2 or 3. The transport device according to any one of claims 2 to 4 , wherein the first mark, the second mark, and the third mark are provided in this order. The position specifying member is fixedly arranged,
The sensor is arranged to be movable together with the rack, the transport apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5. The sensor is fixedly arranged,
Wherein the position specifying member, the rack is arranged to be movable with, the transport apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5. The sensor is a transmissive sensor,
Said label is constituted by the combination of the transparent portion or the shielding portion, the transport apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7. The transport mechanism, said an engaging portion for moving the rack by the rack engaging, conveying device according to any one of claims 1-8. A sample processing apparatus for processing a sample in a sample container;
The transport apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 9 ,
A control unit for controlling the operation of the transport device,
The control unit determines whether or not the sample container accommodated in the rack has been transported to the sample supply position based on information specifying the position of the rack detected by the detection unit. .

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