Automated analyzer and maintenance method for same
US9316662B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 6, 2012 |
| Grant date | Apr 19, 2016 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 20, 2032 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG01N2035/00316
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An automated analyzer includes a conveyance mechanism to convey a specimen, an analysis portion to analyze the specimen, and a device cover to cover a movable mechanism including the conveyance mechanism. The automated analyzer is provided with an interlock mechanism and an interlock release mechanism. The interlock mechanism stops an operation of the movable mechanism when the device cover is opened. The interlock release mechanism disables all or part of the interlock mechanism. The interlock mechanism is enabled when a lever 301 is in contact with a safety switch 302. The interlock mechanism is disabled or partially disabled when the lever 301 is not in contact with the safety switch 302. This enables to prevent a user from inadvertently touching the movable mechanism including a hazard region during analysis of the automated analyzer or a maintenance task. Only a specific maintenance task can be performed with the device cover opened.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.