JP5748456B2 - Sample transport system, sample processing system and control device - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a sample transport system that transports a sample rack that holds a sample, a sample processing system that processes a sample transported by the sample transport system, and a control device that controls transport of the sample rack.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, a sample processing system is known in which a plurality of transport units are connected and a sample rack is transported to a sample processing apparatus using these transport units.

  For example, Patent Literature 1 below discloses a plurality of pretreatment devices such as a centrifuge and an opening portion, a sample analyzer, and a plurality of sample racks for transporting a sample rack holding a sample to the pretreatment device, the sample analyzer, and the like. There is disclosed a sample transport system including a transport line. In this sample transport system, sample racks are delivered by communication between adjacent transport lines. For example, when the sample rack is transported from the first transport line to the second transport line, the first transport line transmits a rack delivery request message to the second transport line, and the second transport line receives this message. Then, a rack carry-in permission signal is transmitted to the first transport line, and the sample rack is transferred from the first transport line to the second transport line.

JP 2001-242179 A

  However, in the sample transport system in which the transport units cooperate to transport the sample rack as described in Patent Document 1, a problem occurs in communication between the transport units, so that the sample rack between the transport units is May not be delivered properly. Therefore, in such a sample transport system, there is a demand to investigate the cause when there is a problem in the delivery of the sample rack between the transport units.

  The present invention has been made in view of such a problem, and in the case where a failure occurs in the delivery of the sample rack between the transport units, the sample transport system and the sample which can easily investigate the cause An object is to provide a processing system and a control device.

A first aspect of the present invention relates to a sample transport system. The sample transport system according to the present aspect includes a first transport path for transporting a sample rack holding a sample, and a first transport unit that transports the sample rack on the first transport path, the first transport path. A second transport section connected to the first transport path, transports the sample rack transferred from the first transport path on the second transport path, and communicates with the first transport section, and A third transport path connected to the second transport path, transports the sample rack transferred from the second transport path on the third transport path, and communicates with the second transport section; a plurality of conveyor portions including a transport unit, the display unit and the first status information and the reflecting the time course of the communication signals relating to deliver sample racks between said first conveyor and the second conveyor section The sample between the second transport unit and the third transport unit Tsu comprises click transfer control unit for displaying the second state information on the display unit to reflect the time course of the communication signal and articles, the. Here, when the control unit causes the display unit to display an arrangement screen showing an arrangement state of the plurality of conveyance units and receives designation of the second conveyance unit via the arrangement screen, The first state information and the second state information are displayed on the display unit.

According to the sample transport system according to this aspect, the temporal transition of the communication signal related to the transfer of the sample rack between the first transport unit and the second transport unit and the sample between the first transport unit and the second transport unit. Since the user can confirm the temporal transition of the communication signal related to the delivery of the rack, it is possible to easily grasp the state of each transportation unit related to the delivery of the sample rack between the transportation units. Therefore, when there is a problem in the delivery of the sample rack between the transport units, the cause can be easily verified. Therefore, for example, when a transport unit of another manufacturer is connected to a transport unit of a certain manufacturer, even if a problem occurs in the delivery of the sample rack, the cause can be easily investigated.

In the sample transport system according to this aspect, when the sample rack is passed from the first transport unit to the second transport unit, the first transport unit sends a first signal related to the transport of the sample rack to the second transport. providing separate component, the second conveying unit provides a second signal relating to the acceptance of the sample rack to the first transport unit, wherein the control unit state like that reflects the time course of the first signal information and, a screen including a second signal time course reflects the state information of may be configured so as to be displayed on the display unit. In this way, the user can confirm the temporal transition of the first state information and the second state information, and therefore, if there is a problem in the delivery of the sample rack between the transport units, the cause can be more easily Can be verified.

In this case, said status information to reflect the time course of the first signal is a time showing information the state of change of the first signal, state shape which reflects the time course of the second signal The information may be configured to be information that indicates how the second signal changes over time. In this way, the state of the transport unit is clearly expressed, so that the state of the transport unit can be more easily grasped.

  In the sample transport system according to this aspect, the first signal is a carry-out operation signal indicating whether or not the first transport unit is in a state of carrying out the sample rack. The signal may be configured to be a receivable signal indicating whether or not the second transport unit is ready to receive the sample rack. In this way, since the carry-out operation signal and the acceptable signal are displayed, the user can confirm a signal directly related to the sample rack delivery operation. As a result, it is possible to more easily investigate the cause of the failure in delivery of the sample rack.

  In this case, the first transport unit includes a first sensor for detecting the completion of unloading of the sample rack, a first providing unit for providing the unload operation signal, and the sample by the first sensor. A first control unit that controls the first providing unit to stop providing the carry-out operation signal when detecting the completion of carrying out of the rack.

  The second transport unit receives a sample rack by the second sensor for detecting that the sample rack has been received, a second providing unit for providing the acceptable signal, and the second sensor. A second control unit that controls the second providing unit to stop providing the acceptable signal when detected.

  The first transport unit includes a first sensor for detecting that the sample rack has been unloaded, and the second transport unit is a second sensor for detecting that the sample rack has been received. The sensor may include a sensor, and the control unit may be configured to display information indicating detection states of the first sensor and the second sensor on the display unit. If it carries out like this, it can be checked whether the 1st and 2nd sensor is operating without a defect by checking the detection state of the 1st and 2nd sensor. This makes it possible to more accurately investigate the cause of the connection failure between the transport units.

  In the sample transport system according to this aspect, the second transport unit is configured to provide the first transport unit with an abnormality signal indicating whether or not an abnormality has occurred in the second transport unit, and the control The unit may be configured to cause the display unit to display abnormal state information that reflects a temporal transition of the abnormal signal. In this way, it is possible to easily verify whether or not the sample rack delivery failure is caused by an abnormality in the transport unit.

Further, in the sample transport system according to this aspect, the second transport unit is configured to provide a power signal indicating whether the power of the second transport unit is turned on to the first transport unit, The control unit may be configured to cause the display unit to display power state information that reflects a time course of the power signal. In this way, it is possible to easily verify whether or not the sample rack delivery failure is caused by the power-off of the transport unit.

Further, in the sample transport system according to the present embodiment, the screen, the first display area for displaying the first state information about the transfer of the sample racks between the first conveyor and the second conveyor section, and And a second display area for displaying the second state information relating to the delivery of the sample rack between the second transport unit and the third transport unit. In this way, it is possible to check the state relating to the delivery of the sample rack between the first transport unit and the second transport unit and between the second transport unit and the third transport unit on one screen.

  Further, in the sample transport system according to this aspect, the control unit is configured to receive a display start instruction for the state information, and displays the screen indicating the state information over a predetermined time after receiving the display start instruction. May be configured to be displayed on the screen. In this way, it is possible to display only the communication status in a desired time zone.

  Further, in the sample transport system according to this aspect, the first and second transport units may be configured to be connected to each other by a signal line.

  A second aspect of the present invention relates to a sample processing system. The sample processing system according to the present aspect includes the sample transport system according to the first aspect and a sample processing unit that processes the sample in the sample rack transported by the first and second transport units.

  According to the sample processing system according to this aspect, the same effect as in the first aspect can be obtained.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a first transport path for transporting a sample rack that holds a sample, a first transport section that transports the sample rack on the first transport path, and the first transport path. A second transport section connected to the first transport path, transports the sample rack transferred from the first transport path on the second transport path, and communicates with the first transport section , and A third transport path connected to the second transport path, transports the sample rack transferred from the second transport path on the third transport path, and communicates with the second transport section; The present invention relates to a control device capable of monitoring a delivery state of the sample rack between a plurality of transport units including a transport unit . The control device according to this aspect includes the first communication signal relating to the delivery of the sample rack between the first transport unit and the second transport unit, and the first transport signal between the second transport unit and the third transport unit. An acquisition unit that acquires a second communication signal related to the delivery of the sample rack, a first state information that reflects a temporal change of the first communication signal acquired by the acquisition unit, and a temporal change of the second communication signal. A control unit that causes the display unit to display the reflected second state information . Here, when the control unit causes the display unit to display an arrangement screen showing an arrangement state of the plurality of conveyance units and receives designation of the second conveyance unit via the arrangement screen, The first state information and the second state information are displayed on the display unit.

  According to the control device of the present aspect, the same effect as that of the first aspect can be achieved.

As described above, according to the present invention, a sample transport system, a sample processing system, and a control device that can easily investigate the cause when a problem occurs in the delivery of the sample rack between the transport units. Can be provided.

  The effects and significance of the present invention will become more apparent from the following description of embodiments. However, the embodiment described below is merely an example when the present invention is implemented, and the present invention is not limited to the following embodiment.

It is a top view which shows typically the structure at the time of seeing the sample processing system which concerns on embodiment from the upper side. It is a figure which shows the structure of the sample container and sample rack which concern on embodiment. It is a top view which shows the structure at the time of seeing the collection | recovery unit, sample rearrangement apparatus, and pre-processing unit which concern on embodiment from the upper side. It is a figure which shows typically the mutual connection relation of each unit (apparatus) of the sample processing system which concerns on embodiment. It is a figure which shows the outline | summary of a structure of the conveyance controller which concerns on embodiment, a collection | recovery unit, a sample rearrangement apparatus, and a pre-processing unit. It is a figure which shows the service screen displayed on the display input part of the conveyance controller which concerns on embodiment. It is a figure which shows the service dialog displayed on the display input part of the conveyance controller which concerns on embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the process by the receiving side unit which concerns on embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the receiving process by the receiving side unit which concerns on embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the carrying-out process by the carrying-out side unit which concerns on embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the process of a conveyance controller and an internal connection unit, when the start button which concerns on embodiment is touched. It is a figure which shows the example of a change of the sample processing system which concerns on embodiment.

  In the present embodiment, the present invention is applied to a sample processing system for performing tests and analyzes relating to blood. The sample processing system according to the present embodiment includes two measurement units and one smear preparation apparatus. In the two measurement units, blood analysis is performed in parallel, and when it is necessary to prepare a smear based on the analysis result, a smear is prepared by the smear preparation apparatus.

  Hereinafter, the sample processing system according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a plan view schematically showing a configuration when the sample processing system 1 is viewed from above. The sample processing system 1 according to the present embodiment includes an input unit 21, preprocessing units 22 and 25, collection units 23 and 26, a sample rearrangement device 24, transport units 31 to 33, and two measurements. The unit 41, the information processing unit 42, the smear preparation apparatus 5, and the transport controller 6 are included. In addition, the sample processing system 1 of the present embodiment is communicably connected to the host computer 7 via a communication network.

As shown in the figure, the input unit 21, the preprocessing units 22, 25, the recovery units 23, 26, the sample rearrangement device 24, and the transport units 31 to 33 can deliver the sample rack L as shown in the figure. It is arranged to be adjacent to the left and right. The input unit 21, the preprocessing units 22 and 25, the recovery units 23 and 26, the sample rearrangement device 24, and the transport units 31 to 33 are hereinafter referred to as “transport system units”. These units are configured such that a plurality of sample racks L that can hold ten sample containers T can be placed thereon.

  FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the configuration of the sample container T and the sample rack L. FIG. 4A is a perspective view showing the appearance of the sample container T, and FIG. 4B is a perspective view showing the appearance of the sample rack L in which ten sample containers T are held. FIG. 7B also shows the orientation (front and rear, left and right in FIG. 1) when the sample rack L is placed on the loading unit 21.

  Referring to FIG. 2A, the sample container T is a tubular container made of light-transmitting glass or synthetic resin, and has an upper end opened. A blood sample collected from the patient is housed inside, and the opening at the upper end is sealed by a lid CP. A barcode label BL1 is attached to the side surface of the sample container T. A barcode indicating the sample ID is printed on the barcode label BL1.

  Referring to FIG. 2B, in the sample rack L, ten sample containers T are placed in the holding positions 1 to 10 as shown in the drawing so that the ten sample containers T can be held in a vertical state (standing position). Ten holding portions are formed. A barcode label BL2 is attached to the rear side surface of the sample rack L as shown in the figure. A barcode indicating the rack ID is printed on the barcode label BL2.

  Returning to FIG. 1, the input unit 21 stores the sample rack L input by the user, and carries the stored sample rack L to the preprocessing unit 22. When starting measurement of a sample, the user first sets the sample container T that stores the sample in the sample rack L, and places the sample rack L on the loading unit 21. Thereafter, the sample rack L is sequentially transported to the downstream (left side) unit, and measurement is performed.

  The preprocessing unit 22 receives the sample rack L carried out by the loading unit 21. The preprocessing unit 22 reads the rack ID of the sample rack L carried out by the loading unit 21 and the sample ID of the sample container T associated with the holding position of the sample rack L with a barcode unit (not shown). . Thereafter, the preprocessing unit 22 transmits the information read by the barcode unit to the transport controller 6, and carries the sample rack L that has been read out to the transport unit 31.

  The transport units 31 and 32 are respectively arranged in front of the two measurement units 41 as illustrated. The transport unit 31 receives the sample rack L carried out by the preprocessing unit 22 and carries it out to the transport unit 32. The transport unit 32 receives the sample rack L transported by the transport unit 31 and transports it to the collection unit 23.

  As shown in the figure, two transport lines are set for the transport units 31 and 32 depending on whether the sample rack L is transported to the corresponding measurement unit 41 or not. That is, when the measurement is performed by the measurement unit 41, the sample rack L is transported along the “measurement line” indicated by the rear U-shaped arrow. When measurement is not performed by the measurement unit 41 and measurement or smear preparation is performed on the downstream side (left side), the “supply line” indicated by the left-pointing arrow ahead is skipped so as to skip the measurement unit 41. The sample rack L is transported along.

The two measurement units 41 extract the sample container T from the sample rack L at a predetermined position (dotted arrow in the figure) on the measurement line of the transport units 31 and 32 disposed in front of each other, and this sample container T The sample stored in is measured in the measurement unit 41. When the measurement is completed, the measurement unit 41 returns the sample container T to the holding unit of the original sample rack L again.

  The information processing unit 42 is communicably connected to the two measurement units 41 and controls the operation of the two measurement units 41. The information processing unit 42 is communicably connected to a sample supply unit (see FIG. 4) that is a part of the rear side of the transport units 31 and 32, and controls the operation of the sample supply unit. The information processing unit 42 is communicably connected to the host computer 7 via a communication network. When the sample ID is read by a barcode unit (not shown) in the measurement unit 41, the information processing unit 42 is connected to the host computer 7. Queries the measurement order. The information processing unit 42 performs analysis based on the measurement result performed by the measurement unit 41 and transmits the analysis result to the host computer 7.

  The collection unit 23 receives the sample rack L carried out by the transport unit 32. Further, the collection unit 23 transports the received sample rack L to the rear and then carries it out to the sample rearrangement device 24.

  The sample rearrangement device 24 receives the sample rack L carried out by the collection unit 23. The sample rearrangement device 24 inquires of the host computer 7 about whether or not the smear preparation device 5 needs to prepare a smear for each sample held in the received sample rack L. The sample rearrangement device 24 rearranges the sample containers T held in the sample rack L based on the inquiry result, and sets the sample rack L that contains only the sample containers T that are determined to require smear preparation. Then, it is carried out to the pretreatment unit 25.

  Note that the sample container T that stores a sample that is determined not to require the preparation of a smear is stored in a storage region 24f (see FIG. 3) in the sample rearrangement device 24. In this way, the sample container T stored in the storage region 24f has been processed by the sample processing system 1, and is taken out of the storage region 24f by the user.

  The preprocessing unit 25 receives the sample rack L carried out by the sample rearrangement device 24. Further, the preprocessing unit 25 transports the received sample rack L forward and then transports it to the transport unit 33.

  Here, as shown in FIG. 1, the sample rearrangement device 24 is connected to the collection unit 23 and the pretreatment unit 25 by external connection cables C1 and C2, respectively. The transport of the sample rack L between the collection unit 23 and the sample rearrangement device 24 and the transport of the sample rack L between the sample rearrangement device 24 and the pretreatment unit 25 are performed via the external connection cables C1 and C2. This is done based on the exchange of signals. The configurations of the collection unit 23, the sample rearrangement device 24, and the preprocessing unit 25 will be described later with reference to FIG.

  The transport unit 33 is disposed in front of the smear preparation apparatus 5 as shown in the figure. The transport unit 33 receives the sample rack L carried out by the preprocessing unit 25 and carries it out to the collection unit 26. Further, the transport unit 33 reads the sample ID of the sample container T held in the received sample rack L by a bar code unit (not shown).

  Similarly to the transport units 31 and 32, the transport unit 33 includes a measurement line and a supply line, as shown in the figure, for the case where the sample rack L is transported to the smear preparation apparatus 5 and the case where it is not transported. Is set. In the present embodiment, the sample rack L carried out from the preprocessing unit 25 side holds only the samples that require the preparation of the smear, so that all the sample racks L have the measurement lines of the transport unit 33. It is conveyed along.

The smear preparation apparatus 5 is communicably connected to the host computer 7 via a communication network. When the specimen ID read by the barcode unit of the transport unit 33 is received from the transport unit 33, the smear preparation apparatus 5 performs measurement on the host computer 7. Make an order inquiry. Thereafter, the smear preparation apparatus 5 sucks the sample stored in the sample container T at a predetermined position on the measurement line of the transport unit 33 (dotted arrow in the figure) and receives the measurement received from the host computer 7. A smear of this specimen is prepared based on the order.

  The collection unit 26 receives the sample rack L carried out by the transport unit 33 and transports the received sample rack L backward. The sample rack L is stored on the transport path of the collection unit 26. Thus, the sample rack L stored on the transport path of the recovery unit 26 is finished by the sample processing system 1 and is taken out from the recovery unit 26 by the user.

  The transport controller 6 controls transport operations of the input unit 21, the preprocessing units 22 and 25, the collection units 23 and 26, and the transport units 31 to 33 among the transport system units related to transport of the sample rack L. The input unit 21, the preprocessing units 22 and 25, the recovery units 23 and 26, and the transport units 31 to 33 are hereinafter referred to as “internal connection units”. The transport operation of the sample rearrangement device 24 is not controlled by the transport controller 6. The unit (device) in which the transport operation is not controlled by the transport controller 6 will be hereinafter referred to as an “external connection unit”.

  FIG. 3 is a plan view showing a configuration when the collection unit 23, the sample rearrangement device 24, and the pretreatment unit 25 are viewed from the upper side.

  The sample rack L carried out from the transport unit 32 side is positioned at the front position of the transport path 23 a of the collection unit 23. The sample rack L is transported to the rear position (unloading position P1) of the transport path 23a when the front side surface is pushed by the rack feeding mechanism 23b.

  As shown in the figure, a transmission type sensor 23c and a rack carry-out mechanism 23d are installed in the vicinity of the carry-out position P1. The sample rack L positioned at the carry-out position P1 is detected by the sensor 23c by the rack feeding mechanism 23b. The sample rack L positioned at the unloading position P1 is unloaded to the sample rearranging device 24 when the right side surface is pushed by the rack unloading mechanism 23d.

  As shown in the figure, a belt 24a and a transmission type sensor 24b are installed in the vicinity of the position rearward of the right end of the sample rearrangement device 24 (receiving position P2). The sample rack L carried out from the collection unit 23 side is conveyed leftward by the belt 24a and positioned at the receiving position P2. The sample rack L positioned at the receiving position P2 is detected by the sensor 24b.

  The sample rack L at the receiving position P2 is transported to the left by being pushed on the right side by the rack unloading mechanism 24e and positioned on the transport path 24c. At this time, the sample rearrangement device 24 inquires of the host computer 7 (see FIG. 1) whether it is necessary to prepare a smear for all the samples held in the sample rack L.

  Here, the catcher 24d is installed on the upper surface inside the sample rearrangement device 24, and is movable in the front-rear and left-right directions and the up-down direction. The catcher 24d has a gripping portion at the lower end. A sample container T that stores a sample that is determined not to require the preparation of a smear is extracted from the sample rack L by a catcher 24d at a predetermined position on the transport path 24c, and is held in a holding hole formed in the storage region 24f. Set.

  Further, after all the sample containers T that do not require the preparation of the smear are extracted from the sample rack L on the transport path 24c, the sample containers that require the preparation of the smear that is held in the sample rack L are extracted. It is determined whether the total of T and the sample containers T set in the buffer area 24g is 10 or more.

  Here, if it is determined that the total number of the sample containers T is less than 10, the sample container T that stores the sample determined to require the preparation of the smear is placed at a predetermined position on the transport path 24c. The sample is extracted from the sample rack L by 24d and set in a holding hole formed in the buffer region 24g. Thus, when all the sample racks L are extracted from the sample rack L on the rack transport path 24c, the sample rack L is transported to the transport position P3 by the rack transport mechanism 24e and then transported to the front of the transport path 24j. Is done.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in the above determination that the total number of sample containers T is 10 or more, the sample containers T set in the buffer area 24g are extracted from the holding holes in the buffer area 24g by the catcher 24d, The rack L is set in all the empty holding parts. Thus, the sample rack L that holds only the sample container T for which the smear preparation is required is pushed on the right side by the rack unloading mechanism 24e, so that the left end position (unloading position P3) of the transport path 24c. It is conveyed to.

  As shown in the figure, a transmission type sensor 24h and a rack push-out mechanism 24i are installed in the vicinity of the carry-out position P3. The sample rack L positioned at the unloading position P3 is detected by the rack unloading mechanism 24e by the sensor 24h. Thereafter, the sample rack L holding only the sample container T for which preparation of a smear is necessary is carried out to the preprocessing unit 25 by the rack carry-out mechanism 24e.

  The sample rack L from which all the sample containers T have been extracted is transported to the unloading position P3 by the rack unloading mechanism 24e as described above, and then pushed forward by the rack pushing mechanism 24i. The sample rack L thus pushed out onto the transport path 24j is transported to the front of the transport path 24j when the rear side surface is pushed by the rack feeding mechanism 24k.

  As shown in the figure, a belt 25a, a transmission type sensor 25b, and a rack pushing mechanism 25c are installed in the vicinity of the rear position (receiving position P4) of the preprocessing unit 25. The sample rack L carried out from the sample rearrangement device 24 side is conveyed leftward by the belt 25a and positioned at the receiving position P4. The sample rack L positioned at the receiving position P4 is detected by the sensor 25b. Thereafter, the sample rack L at the receiving position P4 is pushed forward by the rack pushing mechanism 25c. The sample rack L pushed out onto the transport path 25d is transported to the front of the transport path 25d when the rear side surface is pushed by the rack feeding mechanism 25e. The sample rack L positioned at the front position of the transport path 25d is transported to the transport unit 33 when the right side surface is pushed by the rack transport mechanism 25f.

  FIG. 4 is a diagram schematically illustrating the mutual connection relationship of the units (apparatuses) of the sample processing system 1.

  Here, the transport units 31 and 32 are illustrated as being divided into a sample relay unit 3a and a sample supply unit 3b, respectively. The sample relay unit 3 a is a part related to the supply lines of the transport units 31 and 32, and the sample supply unit 3 b is a part related to the measurement lines of the transport units 31 and 32.

The concentrator 11 can communicate with the input unit 21, the preprocessing units 22 and 25, the recovery units 23 and 26, the two sample relay units 3 a, the transport unit 33, and the transport controller 6. It is connected. Two sample relay units 3a and an information processing unit 42 are connected to the line concentrator 12 so that they can communicate with each other. Two sample supply units 3b and an information processing unit 42 are connected to the concentrator 13 so that they can communicate with each other. Two measuring units 41 and an information processing unit 42 are connected to the concentrator 14 so that they can communicate with each other.

  Note that the sample rearrangement device 24 is not connected to the transport controller 6 as described above, and is connected to the right-side collection unit 23 and the left-side pretreatment unit 25 by external connection cables C1 and C2, respectively. Has been.

  FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an outline of the configuration of the transport controller 6, the collection unit 23, the sample rearrangement device 24, and the preprocessing unit 25.

  The transport controller 6 includes a control unit 601, a communication unit 602, a hard disk 603, and a display input unit 604. The control unit 601 includes a CPU 601a and a memory 601b.

  The CPU 601a executes a computer program stored in the memory 601b and the hard disk 603, thereby controlling the communicably connected unit (device) (internal connection unit) shown in FIG. The memory 601b is used for reading out computer programs stored in the hard disk 603, and also used as a work area when executing these computer programs. The communication unit 602 includes a communication interface for performing data communication with an external device based on the Ethernet (registered trademark) standard, and performs data communication with the line concentrator 11.

  The hard disk 603 stores a computer program for controlling the internal connection unit. The hard disk 603 stores a computer program for displaying a service screen D1 (FIG. 6) and a service dialog D2 (FIG. 7), which will be described later, on the display input unit 604. The display input unit 604 is configured with a touch panel or the like. The display input unit 604 displays an image based on the video signal output from the control unit 601, and outputs the content input by the user touching the screen of the display input unit 604 to the control unit 601. .

  The collection unit 23 includes a control unit 231, a connection unit 232, an A / D conversion unit 233, a drive unit 234, a sensor unit 235, and a communication unit 236. The control unit 231 includes a CPU 231a and a memory 231b. The connection unit 232 includes connection portions 232a and 232b.

  The CPU 231a controls each unit in the collection unit 23 by executing a computer program stored in the memory 231b in accordance with the CPU 601a of the transport controller 6.

  Each of the connection units 232a and 232b includes a plurality of ports, and is configured to be able to connect an external connection cable conforming to Centronics or an external connection cable corresponding to the D-sub 25-pole. The connection unit 232b is connected to the connection unit 242a of the sample rearrangement device 24 by the external connection cable C1.

Here, the CPU 231a can set the ON / OFF state of each port of the connection units 232a and 232b. When in the OFF state, the port is set to a low level (ground level), and when in the ON state, a high level signal is applied to the port. The signal level (ON / OFF state) of each port is supplied to the control unit 231 via the A / D conversion unit 233. Thereby, the CPU 231a can detect the ON / OFF state of the ports of the connection units 232a and 232b.

  The drive unit 234 includes a mechanism for transporting the sample rack L on the collection unit 23, a stepping motor for driving the mechanism, and the like. The sensor unit 235 includes the sensor 23c shown in FIG. 3 and other sensors on the collection unit 23, and outputs a detection signal to the control unit 231. The communication unit 236 performs data communication with the line concentrator 11 as with the communication unit 602 of the transport controller 6.

  The sample rearrangement device 24 has a configuration in which the communication unit 236 is removed from the collection unit 23. That is, the sample rearrangement device 24 includes a control unit 241, a connection unit 242, an A / D conversion unit 243, a drive unit 244, and a sensor unit 245. The control unit 241 includes a CPU 241a and a memory 241b. The connection unit 242 includes connection parts 242a and 242b. The connection part 242a is connected to the connection part 232b of the recovery unit 23 via an external connection cable C1, and the connection part 242b is connected to the connection part 252a of the pretreatment unit 25 via an external connection cable C2. The sensor unit 245 includes the sensors 24 b and 24 h illustrated in FIG. 3 and other sensors on the sample rearrangement device 24.

  The preprocessing unit 25 has the same configuration as the recovery unit 23. That is, the preprocessing unit 25 includes a control unit 251, a connection unit 252, an A / D conversion unit 253, a drive unit 254, a sensor unit 255, and a communication unit 256. The control unit 251 includes a CPU 251a and a memory 251b. The connection unit 252 includes connection portions 252a and 252b. The connection unit 252a is connected to the connection unit 242a of the sample rearrangement device 24 by an external connection cable C2. The sensor unit 255 includes the sensor 25b illustrated in FIG. 3 and other sensors on the sample rearrangement device 24.

  The other transport system units (the input unit 21, the preprocessing unit 22, the sample relay unit 3a, the transport unit 33, and the recovery unit 26) have the same configuration as the recovery unit 23.

  Thus, when the collection unit 23, the sample rearrangement device 24, and the pretreatment unit 25 are configured, each of these units (devices) is connected to an adjacent unit (device) connected by an external connection cable and a signal. Can be exchanged. That is, the ON / OFF state set for each port of the connection unit 232b is reflected to the corresponding port of the connection unit 242a via the external connection cable C1, and the ON / OFF state set for each port of the connection unit 242a. The state is reflected on the corresponding port of the connection unit 232b via the external connection cable C1. The ON / OFF state set for each port of the connection unit 242b is reflected to the corresponding port of the connection unit 252a via the external connection cable C2, and the ON / OFF state set for each port of the connection unit 252a. The state is reflected on the corresponding port of the connection unit 242b via the external connection cable C2. As a result, the units (devices) connected by the external connection cables C1 and C2 can exchange signals with each other.

In the present embodiment, the units (devices) connected by the external connection cables C1 and C2 exchange specific signals using a predetermined port. Specifically, an OPTION signal indicating whether the power of the unit (apparatus) is ON, an ERR signal indicating whether an error (error) has occurred in the unit (apparatus), and the sample rack L are received. A READY signal indicating whether it is possible and a MOVE signal indicating whether the sample rack L is in the carry-out state are exchanged using a predetermined port. Hereinafter, ports used for the exchange of the OPTION signal, the ERR signal, the READY signal, and the MOVE signal are referred to as an OPTION port, an ERR port, a READY port, and a MOVE port, respectively. Note that the exchange of the ON / OFF state of these ports performed when the sample rack L is transported will be described later with reference to FIGS.

  FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a service screen D1 displayed on the display input unit 604 of the transport controller 6.

  As shown in the figure, the service screen D1 includes a layout area D11 indicating an arrangement layout of each unit (apparatus) of the sample processing system 1. In the layout area D11, the input unit 21, the preprocessing unit 22, the transport units 31, 32, the recovery unit 23, the sample rearrangement device 24, the preprocessing unit 25, the transport unit 33, and the recovery unit 26 are included. Respectively include corresponding transport unit buttons F21, F22, F31, F32, F23, F24, F25, F33, and F26.

  Among these transport unit buttons, any one of transport unit buttons F21, F22, F31, F32, F23, F25, F33, and F26 (F24 is not included) corresponding to the internal connection unit is displayed on the display input unit 604 by the user. When a touch is made via the button, a service dialog D2 (see FIG. 7) showing the sensor state of this unit (device) and the ON / OFF state of a predetermined port of the connection part of this unit (device) is displayed and input. This is displayed in the part 604.

  FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a service dialog D <b> 2 displayed on the display input unit 604 of the transport controller 6. In the service dialog D2, information related to the internal connection unit corresponding to the transport unit button designated by the user on the service screen D1 is displayed. The service dialog D2 includes a sensor information display area D21 and an external I / O information display area D22.

  As shown in the drawing, the sensor information display area D21 includes a plurality of labels D211 corresponding to the sensors arranged in the internal connection unit. The number displayed on each label D211 represents the sensor number assigned to the internal connection unit. For example, when the service dialog D2 related to the collection unit 23 is displayed, the label D211 with the number 56 corresponds to the sensor 23c, and when the service dialog D2 related to the preprocessing unit 25 is displayed, the number 1 A label D211 assigned with a number corresponds to the sensor 25b. When the sample rack L or the like is detected by the sensor corresponding to the label D211, the label D211 is red, and when nothing is detected, the label D211 is white. Note that the display of the label D211 is updated in real time.

  The external I / O information display area D22 includes connection part information display areas D221 and D222 and a start button D223 as shown in the figure.

  In the connection part information display area D221, the ON / OFF state of the port connected to the unit (apparatus) adjacent to the upstream side of the internal connection unit is displayed. In the connection part information display area D222, the ON / OFF state of the port connected to the unit (apparatus) adjacent to the downstream side of the internal connection unit is displayed. The ports displayed in the connection unit information display areas D221 and D222 are an OPTION port, an ERR port, a READY port, and a MOVE port.

When the start button D223 is touched by the user via the display input unit 604, the transport controller 6 transmits an instruction to acquire the ON / OFF state of the port to the internal connection unit. The transfer controller 6 is connected to the internal connection unit for a predetermined time (10
When the ON / OFF state of the port for about 2 seconds is received, the ON / OFF state of the port is displayed in the connection unit information display area D221 or D222. The processing related to the display of the port ON / OFF state by the transport controller 6 will be described later with reference to FIG.

  Next, referring to FIGS. 8 to 10, when one of the two adjacent transport system units is an internal connection unit and the other is an external connection unit, an upstream or downstream unit (apparatus). The process by will be described. Hereinafter, of the two adjacent transport system units in this case, the downstream unit (apparatus) is referred to as a “receiving unit”, and the upstream unit (apparatus) is referred to as a “carrying-out unit”.

  FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing processing after power is turned on by the receiving unit. Such processing is performed in the sample rearrangement device 24 and the preprocessing unit 25 in the present embodiment.

  When power is supplied to the receiving unit, the CPU of the receiving unit connects the OPTION port of the connection part (hereinafter referred to as “upstream connection part”) connected to the carry-out unit via the external connection cable. Turn on (S11). Specifically, when the receiving side unit is the sample rearrangement device 24, the OPTION port of the connection unit 242a is turned ON, and when the receiving side unit is the preprocessing unit 25, the OPTION port of the connection unit 252a is turned ON. Is done.

  Subsequently, the CPU of the receiving unit determines whether there is an error in the receiving unit (S12). If it is determined that there is no error (S12: YES), the CPU of the receiving unit turns on the ERR port of the upstream connection unit (S13). On the other hand, if it is determined that there is an error in the receiving unit (S12: NO), the CPU of the receiving unit turns off the ERR port of the upstream connection unit (S14).

  Next, the CPU of the receiving unit determines whether the sample rack L can be received from the carry-out unit (S15). Specifically, when the receiving side unit is the sample rearrangement device 24, if the sample rack L is not detected at the receiving position by the sensor 24b, it is determined that the receiving unit is receivable, and the receiving unit is the preprocessing unit 25. If the sample rack L is not detected at the receiving position by the sensor 25b, it is determined that reception is possible. If the sample rack L is receivable (S15: YES), the CPU of the receiving unit turns on the READY port of the upstream connection unit (S16). On the other hand, if the sample rack L cannot be received (S15: NO), the process proceeds to S17.

  Next, when the power supply of the receiving unit is not turned off (S17: NO), the processes of S12 to S16 are repeated. When the power supply of the receiving unit is turned off (S17: YES), the CPU of the receiving unit turns OFF the OPTION port, ERR port, and READY port of the upstream connection unit (S18). Thus, the processing by the receiving unit ends.

  FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the receiving process of the sample rack L by the receiving side unit. This receiving process is executed in parallel with the process of FIG. 8 while the receiving unit is powered on.

The CPU of the receiving unit determines whether the MOVE port of the upstream connection unit is ON (S21). As will be described later, the MOVE port of the upstream connection portion is turned ON by the carry-out side unit when carrying out the sample rack L in the carry-out side unit. As will be described later, when the receiving side unit at the destination of the sample rack can receive the sample rack L, that is, the OPTION port, the ERR port, and the READY port are all turned ON by the processing of FIG. If so, the MOVE port of the upstream connection is turned on. Therefore, if the determination in S21 is YES, the receiving unit has its own OPTION port, ERR port, and READY port turned on, and is ready to receive the sample rack L.

  When the MOVE port of the upstream connection section is ON (S21: YES), the CPU of the receiving unit starts the sample rack L receiving operation (S22). Specifically, when the receiving unit is the sample rearrangement device 24, the belt 24a is driven as a receiving operation, and when the receiving unit is the preprocessing unit 25, the belt 25a is driven as a receiving operation. Subsequently, the CPU of the receiving unit turns off the READY port of the upstream connection unit (S23). On the other hand, if the MOVE port of the upstream connection portion is not ON (S21: NO), the determination of S21 is repeated.

  Next, the CPU of the receiving unit determines whether the sample rack L has been received (S24). Specifically, when the receiving unit is the sample rearrangement device 24, this determination is made based on whether the sample rack L is detected by the sensor 24b. When the receiving unit is the preprocessing unit 25, this determination is performed. Is performed depending on whether the sample rack L is detected by the sensor 25b. When the sample rack L is received (S24: YES), the CPU of the receiving unit stops the receiving operation of the sample rack L (S25). On the other hand, if the sample rack L has not been received (S24: NO), the CPU of the receiving unit repeats the determination of S24.

  When the receiving operation of the sample rack L is stopped (S25), the CPU of the receiving unit transports the sample rack L at the receiving position from the receiving position to the downstream side (S26). Specifically, when the receiving side unit is the sample rearrangement device 24, the sample rack L is transported by the rack unloading mechanism 24e, and when the receiving side unit is the preprocessing unit 25, the sample rack L is transferred by the rack pushing mechanism 25c. Is transported. Thus, when the process of S26 is completed, the process returns to S21, and the processes of S21 to 26 are repeated.

  FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the unloading process by the unloading unit. In the present embodiment, such processing is performed in the collection unit 23 and the sample rearrangement device 24.

  The CPU of the unloading unit turns on the OPTION port, ERR port, and READY port of the connection unit (hereinafter referred to as “downstream connection unit”) connected to the receiving unit via an external connection cable. It is determined whether it is (S31). When all of these ports are ON (S31: YES), that is, when the receiving unit can receive the sample rack L, the process proceeds to S32. On the other hand, when all of these ports are not turned on (S31: NO), that is, when the receiving unit cannot receive the sample rack L, the determination of S31 is repeated.

  Next, the CPU of the carry-out side unit determines whether the sample rack L has come to the carry-out position (S32). Specifically, when the carry-out unit is the collection unit 23, this determination is made based on whether the sample rack L is detected by the sensor 23c. When the carry-out unit is the sample rearrangement device 24, this determination is made based on whether or not the sample rack L holding only the sample for which the smear preparation is required is detected by the sensor 24h.

When the sample rack L comes to the carry-out position (S32: YES), the CPU of the carry-out side unit turns on the MOVE port of the downstream connection part (S33) and starts the carry-out operation of the sample rack L (S34). Specifically, when the unloading unit is the collection unit 23, the rack unloading mechanism 23d is driven leftward as the unloading operation, and when the unloading unit is the sample rearrangement device 24, the rack unloading operation is performed as the unloading operation. The mechanism 24e is driven leftward. On the other hand, if the sample rack L has not come to the carry-out position (S32: NO), the determination of S32 is repeated.

  Subsequently, the CPU of the carry-out side unit determines whether or not the carry-out of the sample rack L is completed (S35). Specifically, when the carry-out unit is the collection unit 23, this determination is performed based on whether the sample rack L is no longer detected by the sensor 23c. When the carry-out unit is the sample rearrangement device 24, this determination is performed. Is performed depending on whether the sample rack L is no longer detected by the sensor 24h. When the unloading of the sample rack L is completed (S35: YES), the process proceeds to S36, and when the unloading of the sample rack L is not completed (S35: NO), the determination of S35 is repeated.

  Subsequently, the CPU of the carry-out unit turns off the MOVE port of the downstream connection section (S36), and stops the carry-out operation of the sample rack L (S37). Thus, when the process of S37 is completed, the process returns to S31, and the processes of S31 to 37 are repeated.

  FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing processing of the transport controller 6 and the internal connection unit designated by the user when the start button D223 of the service dialog D2 shown in FIG. 7 is touched.

  The CPU 601a of the transport controller 6 determines whether an instruction to display a signal is received from the user (S41). That is, in S41, the CPU 601a determines whether the start button D223 of the service dialog D2 illustrated in FIG. 7 is touched by the user via the display input unit 604.

  When there is a signal display instruction (S41: YES), the CPU 601a transmits a signal storage instruction to the internal connection unit indicated by the service dialog D2 (internal connection unit designated by the user on the service screen D1) (S42). . Subsequently, the CPU 601a waits for processing until a signal is received from the internal connection unit (S43).

  When the CPU of the internal connection unit designated by the user receives a signal storage instruction from the transport controller 6 (S51: YES), the OPTION port, ERR port, and READY port of the connection unit to which the external connection cable is connected, Then, storage of a signal indicating the ON / OFF state of the MOVE port is started (S52). Specifically, when this internal connection unit is the recovery unit 23, the ON / OFF state of the port of the connection unit 232b is stored, and when this internal connection unit is the preprocessing unit 25, the port of the connection unit 252a is stored. The ON / OFF state is stored. Note that a memory in the control unit of the internal connection unit is used to store the ON / OFF states of these ports. In the memory, values obtained by A / D converting the signal level of the port of the connection unit 232b or 252a at a predetermined sampling period by the A / D conversion unit 233 or 253 are sequentially stored.

  The CPU of the internal connection unit waits for 10 seconds after starting to store the ON / OFF state of the port (S53). That is, the ON / OFF state of the port is stored in the memory for 10 seconds. When 10 seconds have elapsed since the start of storing the ON / OFF state of the port (S53: YES), the CPU of the internal connection unit transmits a signal indicating the ON / OFF state of the port stored in the memory to the transport controller 6. (S54).

When receiving a signal from the internal connection unit via the communication unit 602 (S43: YES), the CPU 601a of the transport controller 6 displays this signal on the display input unit 604 (S4).
4). Specifically, when the internal connection unit designated by the user is the collection unit 23, an OPTION port, an ERR port, a READY port, and a MOVE port for 10 seconds are displayed in the connection unit information display area D222 of FIG. When the internal connection unit designated by the user is the pre-processing unit 25, the OPTION port, the ERR port, and the READY for 10 seconds are displayed in the connection unit information display area D221 of FIG. The port and the ON / OFF state of the MOVE port are displayed.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, it is used for the delivery operation of the sample rack L between the collection unit 23 and the sample rearrangement device 24 or between the sample rearrangement device 24 and the pretreatment unit 25 for a predetermined time. The transitions of the signals (OPTION port, ERR port, READY port, and MOVE port ON / OFF state) are displayed in the external I / O information display area D22 of FIG. Thereby, it is possible to easily grasp the state relating to the delivery of the sample rack L of the two transport system units connected by the external connection cable.

  In addition, when there is a problem in the delivery of the sample rack L in the two transport system units connected by the external connection cable, signals used for the delivery operation of the sample rack L (OPTION port, ERR port, and READY port) By referring to the MOVE port ON / OFF state), the cause can be easily verified. Therefore, for example, when a service person connects the transport system unit of another company and the transport system unit of the company with an external connection cable and installs the sample processing system, the service system unit of the other company and the transport system unit of the company Even if a problem occurs in the delivery of the sample rack L between them, the cause can be easily investigated.

  More specifically, for example, the signal in the external I / O information display area D22 in FIG. 7 indicates that the MOVE port is not turned on even though the OPTION port, ERR port, and READY port of the receiving unit are all turned on. If it is found from the transition, the serviceman can determine that there is a possibility that there is a problem in the cable connection between the receiving unit and the unloading unit. If the READY port does not turn on even though the receiving unit is ready to receive the sample rack L, there is a possibility that there is a cause of a malfunction in the READY port of the receiving unit. Man can judge.

  Moreover, according to this Embodiment, the detection state of the sensor arrange | positioned at the internal connection unit is displayed on the sensor information display area D21 of FIG. When the detection state of such a sensor is referred to in conjunction with the external I / O information display area D22, the cause of the trouble related to the delivery of the sample rack L in the two transport system units connected by the external connection cable can be more accurately determined. It becomes possible to investigate.

  As mentioned above, although embodiment of this invention was described, embodiment of this invention is not limited to these.

  For example, in the above embodiment, blood is exemplified as a measurement target, but urine may also be a measurement target. That is, the present invention can be applied to a sample processing system for testing urine, and further, the present invention can be applied to a clinical sample processing system for testing other clinical samples.

  FIG. 12A is a diagram illustrating a case where the present invention is applied to a sample processing system 800 for examining urine.

As illustrated, the sample processing system 800 includes transport units 801 to 803, measurement units 811 and 812, and a transport controller 820. The transport controller 820 is communicably connected to the transport unit 802. The transport units 801 and 802 are connected by an external connection cable C3, and the transport units 802 and 803 are connected by an external connection cable C4.

  The transport unit 801 transports the sample rack L placed on the transport unit 801 to the measurement unit 811 that performs qualitative analysis, and transports the sample rack L that has been measured by the measurement unit 811 to the transport unit 802. The transport unit 802 receives the sample rack L carried out by the transport unit 801. The transport unit 802 transports the received sample rack L to the measurement unit 812 that performs sediment analysis, and transports the sample rack L that has been measured by the measurement unit 812 to the transport unit 803. The transport unit 803 receives the sample rack L carried out by the transport unit 802 and stores it in the transport unit 803.

  Also in this case, when the service screen as shown in FIG. 6 is displayed on the display input unit of the transport controller 820, and the transport unit button corresponding to the transport unit 802 is touched on this screen, the transport as shown in FIG. A service dialog regarding the unit 802 is displayed. At this time, as in the above embodiment, a sensor information display area indicating the detection state of the sensor in the transport unit 802 and an external I / O information display area are displayed in the service dialog. In this case, the two connection part information display areas in the external I / O display area include the ON / OFF state of the upstream connection part port and the ON / OFF state of the downstream connection part port, respectively. The OFF state is displayed at the same time.

  FIG. 12B illustrates a case where the present invention is applied to a sample processing system 900 in which another sample processing system 910 is connected to the upstream side of the sample processing system 1 of the above embodiment. is there. In the sample processing system 910, measurement related to blood is performed. In this case, the sample processing system 910 is used for the first test, and the sample processing system 1 is used for the retest.

  As illustrated, the sample processing system 910 includes a measurement unit 911 and transport units 912 and 913. The transport unit 913 and the input unit 21 are connected by an external connection cable C5.

  The transport unit 912 receives the sample rack L for which measurement by the measurement unit 911 has been completed, and carries it out to the transport unit 913. The transport unit 913 receives the sample rack L carried out by the transport unit 912 and carries it out to the input unit 21.

  Also in this case, the service dialog D2 regarding the input unit 21 as shown in FIG. 7 can be displayed on the display input unit 604 of the transport controller 6. At this time, the connection part information display area D221 of the service dialog displays the ON / OFF state of the port over the predetermined time of the connection part 232a of the input unit 21.

  In the above embodiment, the connection information display areas D221 and D222 of the service dialog D2 display the ON / OFF state of the port for 10 seconds, but the port information for a predetermined time other than 10 seconds is displayed. An ON / OFF state may be displayed. Moreover, you may enable it to set suitably this time by a user.

In the above-described embodiment, the sample rack L is transferred between the external connection unit and the internal connection unit based on the ON / OFF state of the port of the connection unit. Similarly to the connection between the internal connection units, the unit and the internal connection unit may be connected so that data communication is possible. In this case, information regarding the delivery of the sample rack L is mutually transmitted between the external connection unit and the internal connection unit, and each unit controls the transport of the sample rack L based on the received information.

  Further, in the above embodiment, the sensor information display area D21 and the external I / O information display area D22 are displayed together on the service dialog D2 shown in FIG. The area D21 and the external I / O information display area D22 may be displayed on different screens (dialogs).

  In the above embodiment, the ON / OFF states of the OPTION port, the ERR port, the READY port, and the MOVE port are displayed together in the connection information display areas D221 and D222 shown in FIG. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the ON / OFF states of these ports may be displayed on different screens (dialogs).

  In the above embodiment, the service screen D1 and the service dialog D2 are displayed on the display input unit 604, and an instruction is input to the transport controller 6 when the user touches the screen of the display input unit 604 of the transport controller 6. It was done. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the service screen D1 and the service dialog D2 may be displayed on the display provided in the transport controller 6, and instructions may be input from a mouse, a keyboard, or the like provided in the transport controller 6. .

  In the above embodiment, when the transport unit button corresponding to the internal connection unit is touched by the user on the service screen D1 shown in FIG. 6, the service dialog D2 shown in FIG. 7 is displayed. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the service dialog D2 may be displayed even when the transport unit button corresponding to the external connection unit is touched by the user. In this case, the external connection unit designated by the user is communicably connected to the transport controller 6 similarly to the internal connection unit. Thereby, the state of the connection unit and the sensor of the external connection unit can be grasped via the service dialog D2 shown in FIG.

  In addition, the embodiment of the present invention can be variously modified as appropriate within the scope of the technical idea shown in the claims.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Specimen processing system 5 ... Smear preparation apparatus 6 ... Conveyance controller 23 ... Collection unit 24 ... Specimen rearrangement device 25 ... Pre-processing unit 23c, 24b, 24h, 25b ... Sensor 41 ... Measurement unit 231, 241, 251 ... Control Units 232, 242, 252 ... Connection unit 232b, 242a, 242b, 252a ... Connection unit 601 ... Control unit 602 ... Communication unit 604 ... Display input unit 800 ... Sample processing system 801-803 ... Transport unit 811, 812 ... Measurement unit 820 ... Conveyance controller 900 ... Sample processing system 911 ... Measurement units 912, 913 ... Conveyance units C1 to C5 ... External connection cable D1 ... Service screen D221, D222 ... Connection section information display area L ... Sample rack

Claims (14)

A first transport path for transporting the sample rack holding the sample; a first transport section for transporting the sample rack on the first transport path; and a second transport path connected to the first transport path. The sample rack delivered from the first transport path is transported on the second transport path , and a second transport section capable of communicating with the first transport section, and a third connected to the second transport path. A plurality of transport units including a third transport unit having a transport path, transporting the sample rack transferred from the second transport path on the third transport path, and communicating with the second transport unit; ,
A display unit;
First state information reflecting a time-dependent transition of a communication signal related to delivery of the sample rack between the first transport unit and the second transport unit, and between the second transport unit and the third transport unit e Bei and a control unit for displaying the second state information reflecting the time course of the communication signals relating to transfer of the sample rack on the display unit,
When the control unit causes the display unit to display an arrangement screen showing an arrangement state of the plurality of conveyance units and receives designation of the second conveyance unit via the arrangement screen, the first state information And displaying the second state information on the display unit,
A specimen transport system characterized by the above. The sample transport system according to claim 1,
When the sample rack is passed from the first transport unit to the second transport unit, the first transport unit provides the second signal to the second transport unit with a first signal related to unloading of the sample rack, and the second transport unit. The unit provides the first transport unit with a second signal related to acceptance of the sample rack;
Wherein the control unit is configured and the state information reflects the time course of the first signal, and displays the screen including said state information reflecting the time course of the second signal to the display unit,
A specimen transport system characterized by the above. The sample transport system according to claim 2,
Said state information reflecting the time course of the first signal is the time to show information how the change of the first signal,
Wherein the state information reflects the time course of the second signal is a time showing information the state of change of the second signal,
A specimen transport system characterized by the above. In the sample transportation system according to claim 2 or 3,
The first signal is a carry-out operation signal indicating whether or not the first transport unit is in a state of carrying out the sample rack carry-out operation,
The second signal is an acceptable signal indicating whether or not the second transport unit is ready to accept the sample rack.
A specimen transport system characterized by the above. In the sample transportation system according to claim 4,
The first transport unit is
A first sensor for detecting completion of unloading of the sample rack;
A first providing unit for providing the unloading operation signal;
A first control unit that controls the first providing unit to stop providing the carry-out operation signal when the completion of carrying out of the sample rack is detected by the first sensor;
A specimen transport system characterized by the above. The specimen transport system according to claim 4 or 5,
The second transport unit is
A second sensor for detecting receipt of the sample rack;
A second providing unit for providing the acceptable signal;
A second control unit that controls the second providing unit to stop providing the acceptable signal when the second sensor detects acceptance of the sample rack.
A specimen transport system characterized by the above. In the sample transportation system according to claim 4,
The first transport unit includes a first sensor for detecting completion of unloading of the sample rack,
The second transport unit includes a second sensor for detecting that the sample rack has been received,
The control unit causes the display unit to display information indicating detection states of the first sensor and the second sensor.
A specimen transport system characterized by the above. In the sample transportation system according to any one of claims 2 to 7,
The second transport unit is configured to provide the first transport unit with an abnormal signal indicating whether an abnormality has occurred in the second transport unit,
The control unit causes the display unit to display abnormal state information that reflects a temporal transition of the abnormal signal.
A specimen transport system characterized by the above. In the sample transport system according to any one of claims 2 to 8,
The second transport unit is configured to provide a power signal indicating whether or not the power of the second transport unit is turned on to the first transport unit,
The control unit causes the display unit to display power state information that reflects the temporal transition of the power signal.
A specimen transport system characterized by the above. In the sample transportation system according to any one of claims 2 to 9,
The screen includes a first display area for displaying the first state information regarding the delivery of the sample rack between the first transport unit and the second transport unit, and the second transport unit and the third transport. A second display area for displaying the second state information relating to the delivery of the sample rack to or from a section,
A specimen transport system characterized by the above. In the sample transportation system according to any one of claims 1 to 10 ,
The control unit is configured to receive a display start instruction for the state information, and causes the display unit to display a screen indicating the state information over a predetermined time after receiving the display start instruction.
A specimen transport system characterized by the above. The sample transport system according to any one of claims 1 to 11 ,
The first and second transport units are connected to each other by a signal line,
A specimen transport system characterized by the above. The sample transport system according to any one of claims 1 to 12 ,
A sample processing unit for processing samples in the sample rack transported by the first and second transport units,
A specimen processing system characterized by the above. A first transport path for transporting the sample rack holding the sample; a first transport section for transporting the sample rack on the first transport path; and a second transport path connected to the first transport path. The sample rack delivered from the first transport path is transported on the second transport path , and a second transport section capable of communicating with the first transport section , and a third connected to the second transport path. A plurality of transport sections including a third transport section having a transport path and transporting the sample rack transferred from the second transport path on the third transport path and capable of communicating with the second transport section ; In a control device capable of monitoring the delivery state of the sample rack between,
A first communication signal related to delivery of the sample rack between the first transport unit and the second transport unit, and a second communication related to delivery of the sample rack between the second transport unit and the third transport unit. An acquisition unit for acquiring a signal ;
A control unit that causes the display unit to display the first state information reflecting the temporal transition of the first communication signal acquired by the acquisition unit and the second state information reflecting the temporal transition of the second communication signal ; Bei to give a,
When the control unit causes the display unit to display an arrangement screen showing an arrangement state of the plurality of conveyance units and receives designation of the second conveyance unit via the arrangement screen, the first state information And displaying the second state information on the display unit,
A control device characterized by that.

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