Technical field
[0001]
The present invention relates to apparatus for rotating an object.
BACKGROUND
[0002]
In the configuration analytical system to automatically analyze a sample, the sample container accommodating the sample to be analyzed is set in a predetermined position, the sample is automatically removed from the specimen vessel (e.g., sampling nozzle sucked the like), automatic analysis process in the analysis unit is carried out. Sample container so as to adapt it to various handling mechanism in the analysis system, which is assumed to have the length and thickness of the provision.
[0003]
　The sample container as described above, as in 100 (blood collection tube more specifically) illustrated sample container 7, the opening of the cylindrical container body 101, such as a test tube, the sealing cap 102 what was, and the like. The fuselage outer surface of each specimen container, typically the label 103 code 104, etc. have been described for identifying the contained sample is stuck.
　Handling multiple sample container as described above, the analysis system such as the contained sample to each sample container automatically sequentially analysis (also called "transport rack") carrying holders 7 200 It is used. Conveying holder 200 has a holding hole for holding the sample container (100, 110, 120, ...), the holding hole, in a typical example, in a row at predetermined intervals It is arranged. Conveying holder 200 is conveyed by various transport device 300 such as a belt conveyor to a predetermined position.
[0004]
　In general, notch 210 is provided on the side wall of the respective holding holes of the conveying holder, the holding hole is communicated outside and communicates through the cutout 210 in the side of the holder. Therefore, as in the case of the sample container 100 shown in FIG. 7, the bar code 104 on the label 103 adhered to the sample container can be read through the notch 210 of the retaining hole. Similarly each label (113, 123) on the bar code of the other sample container (110, 120), can be read through the cutout of the respective retaining holes. For the transfer of the sample container using such a conveying holder is described in detail in Patent Document 1.
[0005]
　However, as shown in FIG. 7, since each sample container is inserted into the holding holes at random, the body position (of each container body of the label on the sample container (103,113,123, ...) outer periphery position), that is, each label position of the bar code according to does not coincide necessarily notch 210 position of. Therefore, in order to read through lack 210 off the bar code label, (in FIG. 7, the central axis Y10 which is added to the sample container 110 as an example) the central axis of the specimen container by rotating the sample container for, the label the position of the bar code, it is necessary to match the position of the notch 210 of the retaining hole.
[0006]
　To read the bar code, the mechanism for rotating the held sample container to transport the holder have been proposed. Among them, even though approaching the specimen container together with each other, and as a mechanism that can only be preferably rotating sample container of interest, a mechanism using three gripping rollers described in Patent Document 1 . In the mechanism, as shown schematically in FIG. 8, three shafts 401, 402, 403 has a gripping roller 411, 412, 413 in each of the tip, these three gripping rollers There gripping the one sample container 100 at three points of the fuselage circumference. One shaft 401 of the three shafts 401, 402, and 403 are connected to the drive shaft to a rotary drive source. By rotation with a rotational driving force of the drive shaft, the sample container 100 via the gripping roller (drive side roller) 411 of the tip to rotate in opposite directions. The remaining shafts 402 and 403 are driven shaft are configured such that each tip gripping roller (driven roller) 412, 413 idles. Thus, the gripping rollers 412 and 413, while gripping the specimen container 100, which is to be driven to rotate according to the rotation of the sample container 100.
　If mechanism using the three gripping rollers, such as, even though approaching the specimen container to each other with each other, it is possible to rotate the sample container object by rotation in situ driving side roller have never each gripping roller contacts the specimen container next.
CITATION
Patent Document
[0007]
Patent Document 1: JP 2014-149162 JP
Summary of the Invention
Problems that the Invention is to Solve
[0008]
　However, in the conventional rotary apparatus using the three gripping rollers as described above, in order to perform the opening and closing operation for gripping the sample container, the rotating operation for rotating the sample container has at least two drive source device is separately required. And the two drive sources device, as shown in FIG. 9, a driving source apparatus for translating the two driven rollers 412 and 413 to release gripping the specimen container 100 in the direction of double-headed arrow, a driving source apparatus for providing rotational driving force to the drive side rollers 411.
　Thus, conventional rotary apparatus as described above, since it requires at least two drive sources device, it has been difficult to further compact the entire apparatus. Such a problem is not only to grip the specimen container rotation, it is brought into contact with the drive-side roller to the various objects, even when rotating at a variety of purposes, are similarly caused problems.
[0009]
　An object of the present invention is to provide a movement for gripping an object, and a rotation operation for rotating an object, the apparatus can be achieved by a common drive source device.
Means for Solving the Problems
[0010]
　The main structure of the present invention is as follows.
[1] A device for rotating an object,
　the apparatus having at least, the supporting member and the driving unit and the thrust application section
　first drive unit is a drive shaft, the drive shaft bidirectional 1 and a direction and a driving source device for rotating in the second direction, the drive shaft has a drive-side roller to transmit the rotary motion to said object when in contact with the object,
　in one direction to the drive shaft transmission device is provided, the one-way transmission device, and a driving portion and the driven portion, the driving shaft is integral with or driven side portion is fixed to the drive portion, and the one direction transmission device, only the rotary drive to the first direction of the drive shaft has a mechanism for transmitting to the driven portion,
　the device,
　in the first direction to transmit to the driven side portion of the one-way transmission device It converts the rotational driving force, the driving Uni Or a mechanism for moving in a direction away bets from the object, or to convert the rotational driving force in the first direction is transmitted to the driven side portion of the one-way transmission device, away the driven unit from the object a mechanism for moving into, the driven unit, which includes a driven-side member for rotatably gripping the object in cooperation with the drive-side roller,
　rotation in the second direction of the drive shaft the driving force, the driving-side roller is rotated so as to transmit the rotation operation to the object,
said device.
[2] The device converts the rotational driving force in the first direction, has the mechanism for moving in a direction leaving the drive unit from the object,
　Drive unit, a contact position of the drive-side roller contacts the object, so as to move the moving path on which includes a spaced position away from the object, it is mounted movably on the support member,
　between the drive unit and the supporting member, so that the forward direction of the force of contacting the object to move the drive side roller in the direction of the contact position is applied to the drive side roller, and driving force applicator is provided cage,
　the driven side portion of the one-way transmission device, the pinion member is provided, the support member rack member meshing with the pinion member is provided in the first direction is transmitted to the pinion member through a one-way transmission device the rotary drive to the, against the force in the forward direction to be imparted by said propulsion force applying unit, the reverse pinion member to retract direction moves on the rack member and said forward direction, whereby the drive Unit moves to the backward direction,
according to the above [1].
[3] further includes a driven member, the driven Dogawa member, when the drive-side roller contacts the said object as the object is rotatable, the drive-side roller in cooperation with the object is a member for rotatably gripping a device according to the above [2].
[4] The apparatus has a driven unit, the driven unit has the driven-side member, and wherein is movably held on the support member,
　from the drive unit a second rack member It extends and extends the third rack member from the driven unit, the second rack member and the third rack member, in a state in which the respective teeth are opposed to each other, rotatably supported therebetween It meshes with a second pinion member which is,
　Movement in one direction of the drive unit causes the movement in the opposite direction of the driven unit, drive-side roller and the driven member, the object gripped close simultaneously the object, at the same time away from the object the to release the object, wherein the second rack member and the third rack member and second pinion member are assembled associated,
according to the above [3].
[5] The apparatus has a driven unit, the driven unit has the driven-side member, and wherein is movably held on the support member,
　said the support member, a pair of pulleys members are provided, these are a pair of pulleys members hung the endless belt member, endless belt member has a straight portion of a pair of moving in the forward direction and extends parallel to and opposite to each other,
　wherein of the linear portion of the pair on one of the straight portions is driven unit is fixed, the other straight portion and the driven unit is fixed, thereby, to move in the direction of the drive unit, endless belt through the member causes movement in the opposite direction of the driven unit, whereby the drive-side roller and the driven member to grip the object approaches at the same time the object, and, at the same time away from the object the target Is adapted to release a
device according to the above [3].
[6] between the driven unit and the support member, the second thrust applicator such that a force gripping direction to the driven side member is applied is provided, according to the above [4] or [5] apparatus.
[7] The device converts the rotational driving force in the first direction, has the mechanism for moving in a direction leaving the driven unit is further provided from the object,
　Driven unit includes a contact position where the driven member in contact with the object, so as to move the moving path on which includes a spaced position away from the object, is mounted movably on the support member,
　between the driven unit and the support member, so that the force in the forward direction for contacting the object is moved in the direction of the contact position of the driven member is applied to the driven side member, the driving force applicator is provided cage,
　the driven side portion of the one-way transmission device is provided with a first pulley member, the second pulley member provided on the support member, between these first pulley member and a second pulley member is passed over the endless belt member, endless belt member, when the first pulley member is rotated in a first direction, has a linear portion which moves in the backward direction opposite to the forward direction,
　the straight line the driven unit is fixed to the part , Retracted by rotational driving force in the first direction is transmitted to the first pulley member through the one-way transmission device, the straight line portion, against the force in the forward direction to be imparted by said propulsion force applying unit moves to the direction, whereby the driven unit is moved to the backward direction,
according to the above [1].
[8] driven member, in cooperation with the drive-side roller is a two driven rollers which rotatably grip the object at three points, as described in any one of [3] to [7] apparatus.
[9] Between the drive shaft and the drive side roller, and the second one-way transmission device is interposed, the second one-way transmission device, only the rotary drive to the second direction of the drive shaft a device for transmitting the driving side roller device according to any one of [1] to [8].
[10] driving source device is a controllable motor to rotate in both directions, according to any one of [1] to [9].
Effect of the invention
[0011]
　By the apparatus of the present invention, it becomes possible to reduce the number of drive sources device as compared with the conventional device, the entire device more compact, and also makes it possible to reduce the cost of the entire device.
　Further, in a preferred embodiment of the present invention, without the drive side roller rotates the object, it can be away from the object. Thus, the position of the first object to be rotated as it can be maintained.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0012]
[Figure 1-1] Figure 1-1 is a diagram schematically showing a configuration of a main portion in the first embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention. In the drawing, for purposes of explanation, the one-way clutch 20, the pinion member 24 and shows only the coupling 22 of the tubular connecting these in cross section is hatched. In the illustrated example, the rack member 26 and the pinion member 24 is rack and pinion, the teeth 24T of the outer periphery of the pinion does not show its cross-section. Rack 26 meshing with the pinion 24 is not drawing a tooth, parallel striped dashed line suggests the teeth of the rack.
[Figure 1-2] Figure 1-2 is a diagram schematically showing a configuration of a main portion in a second embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention. In the drawing, the endless belt member is to show that it is a cyclic, draw the endless belt member as oval, and are drawn away respectively both ends of the endless belt member from the first, second pulley member . In fact, both ends of the endless belt member, first, in contact with the second pulley member, the endless belt member has appropriate tension is applied.
FIG. 2 is in the first embodiment of the present invention, the configuration of the main part of the device, and a perspective view showing the positional relationship between the apparatus and the specimen container, obliquely upward the device it is a view from. In the drawing, it is not shown Yamaya teeth of all the gears (including a pinion member) and the rack member. The following FIGS. 3, 4-1 is the same in FIG.
FIG. 3 is the first embodiment of the present invention, a perspective view showing a configuration of a main portion of the apparatus, which is seen the device obliquely from below. In Figure 3, it shows the two driven rollers is a driven-side member, the overall configuration of the drive unit, such as a support member, a specific example of extrinsic structures. Further, not illustrated structure of the driven side, it is showing the moving mechanism and a spring provided on the support member (driving force application section).
[Figure 4-1] Figure 4-1 is in the first embodiment of the present invention, a front view showing a configuration of a main portion of the apparatus, the drive unit and the driven unit can be moved on the support member It shows the placed configuration example.
[Figure 4-2] Figure 4-2, in the first embodiment of the present invention, for moving the drive unit and the driven unit from each other, is a schematic diagram showing an example of another mechanism.
FIG. 5 is in the first embodiment of the present invention and shows an example of the positional relationship between the transport holder which holds the said device, the sample container. In the figure, one of the retained sample container to transport holder, is positioned between the drive-side roller and the driven roller of the device.
FIG. 6 is a diagram schematically showing the principle of selective connection with the disengagement of the one-way clutch which is used in the first and second embodiments of the present invention.
[7] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of the conventional specimen container transport holder for holding a large number of them.
FIG. 8 is in the prior art, is a perspective view showing an arrangement of three rollers for causing gripping the specimen container rotation schematically.
[9] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing the operation of the three rollers as shown in FIG. 8, shows a cross section of the sample container and the rollers (section cut along a plane perpendicular to the respective rotation center axis) there.
DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0013]
　Hereinafter, the configuration of the apparatus according to the present invention (device for rotating an object) will be described in greater detail by giving specific examples. The figure for explanation, as an example of the object to rotate, shows the sample container as shown in FIG. Each numerical values and materials which may be mentioned by way of example in the following description, a preferred example and do not limit the present invention.
　As shown the configuration of a main part in an embodiment of the present invention in FIGS. 1-1 and FIG. 1-2, the device includes a support member B1 and the drive unit 10 a propulsive force applicator 30 (or 31) at least composed of Te. The drive unit 10 is configured to include at least one of the drive shaft 2, at least one of the drive source unit 1 for rotating the drive shaft 2 in a first direction and a second direction which is opposite directions. Figure 1-1 and Figure 1-2, a support member B1 for generally supporting the drive unit 10, the bracket 7 which is also the drive unit 10 itself of the frame is indicated by a chain line. The drive shaft 2 has a drive-side roller 3 at its distal end. The drive-side roller 3 rotates with the drive shaft 2, in contact with the sample container A1, which is held in place, a roller for rotating the specimen container. Therefore, the contact, the drive-side roller 3 is in contact with the pressing force such that it can rotate the sample container A1. Drive shaft 2 for rotating the specimen container, the central axis of rotation of the drive-side roller 3 is preferably parallel to the axis of rotation of the sample container.
　The first and second directions of the can may be a rotational direction opposite to each other. In the example of FIGS. 1-1 and FIG. 1-2, the rotational driving force in the first direction F1 and the rotational driving force F2 in the second direction as indicated by arrows, respectively, along the rotation axis of the drive shaft, a drive source when viewed side of the drive side rollers 3 of the tip from the side near to the apparatus, the first direction is the direction of rotation of counter-clockwise, the second direction is a rotational direction clockwise. The first direction and the second direction shown in these figures, merely a direction defined for the description, or may be a direction opposite respectively.
[0014]
　As shown in Figure 1-1 and Figure 1-2, the apparatus while using a single driving source device for rotating the object, using the one-way transmission device described mechanism ((I) below the mechanism or (II) below mechanisms), has created a next operation.
　(In the embodiment, described is the second direction) driving source device specific direction as it rotates, the by the rotational driving force F2 of the specific direction, the drive-side roller 3, the specimen container A1 is the object It rotates so as to transmit the rotation operation. That is, the drive-side roller 3, and transmits the rotation to the object rotates the object.
　(In the embodiment, is described as a first direction) driving source device a direction opposite to the specific direction when rotating in converts the rotational driving force F1 in the first direction, a drive side roller it either to release the grip is moved in a direction leaving the drive unit from the object, or to release the grip is moved in a direction away from the object the driven unit including a driven member to be described later.
　(I) wherein by converting a rotational driving force in the first direction is transmitted to the driven side portion of the one-way transmission device, mechanism for moving in a direction leaving the drive unit from the object.
　(II) wherein by converting a rotational driving force in the first direction is transmitted to the driven side portion of the one-way transmission device, mechanism for moving in a direction away from the object to the driven unit to be described later.
　Mechanism of the (I) and (II) are both a first direction of rotation to be transmitted to the driven side portion of the one-way transmission device, into a translational movement, that includes a motion conversion mechanism be able to. The combination of one-way transmission device and motion conversion mechanism, while using one drive source device, to rotate the object, and the drive-side roller or distancing the driven portion from the object (this time the object is replaced with the next object) is enabled it is.
[0015]
　First, a first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figure 1-1.
　In a first embodiment of the present invention, the device converts the rotational driving force in the first direction, has the mechanism for moving in a direction leaving the drive unit from the object, the drive unit is movable configured. As the mechanism, the following configurations can be exemplified.
　As shown in Figure 1-1, the drive unit 10 moves the contact position of the drive side roller 3 comes into contact with the sample container (object) A1, the movement path on which includes a spaced position away from the specimen container as is mounted movably on the support member B1. Structure that allows this movement will be described later. Between the drive unit 10 and the support member B1, as a force in the forward direction for contacting the driving side roller 3 to the moved thereby and the object to the contact position (thrust) F3 is applied to the drive side roller, thrust application section (tension spring in this embodiment) 30 is provided. One end of the driving force applicator 30 is fixed to any suitable position of the drive unit 10, the other end of the driving force applicator 30 is secured to any suitable position of the support member B1.
　The drive shaft 2, the one-way transmission device 20 is provided, the one-way transmission device 20, as described in detail below, the drive side is integral with or driven shaft 2 is attached to the drive shaft 2 portion and, by the internal mechanism, only the rotational driving force F1 in the first direction of the drive shaft 2 to the driven Dogawa portion between a driven portion, the driving portion and the driven portion located outside and a mechanism for transmitting to. In this embodiment, as a one-way transmission device 20, it is used one-way clutch which will be described later. The driven-side portion of the one-way transmission device 20, and the pinion member 24 is provided, whereas, the rack member 26 meshing with the pinion member 24 to the support member B1 is provided, the pinion member 24 and the rack member 26 They are engaged with each other. Pinion member and the rack member may be any combination so as to convert rotational motion into linear motion, in the present embodiment, a pinion (circular gear) and rack (linear gear). The pinion member and the rack member will be described later.
　Pinion member 24 is rotated by receiving a rotational driving force F1 in the first direction transmitted through the one-way transmission device 20, against the advancing direction of the force F3 applied by propulsion force applicator 30, the said forward direction and to move on the rack member 26 in the opposite rearward direction. By the movement of the pinion member 24, the drive-side roller 3 (i.e., the entire drive unit) moves to the backward direction.
　The important point here is, between the drive shaft 2 and the pinion member 24, said and one-way transmission device 20 is interposed, thereby, only the rotational driving force F1 in the first direction of the drive shaft 2 is that is transmitted to the pinion member. Thus, the operation of the following (i) and (ii) is obtained.
　(I) when the drive shaft 2 is rotated in the first direction, the pinion member 24 receives the rotational driving force F1 in the first direction, to move in the backward direction, whereby the drive-side roller 3 is spaced It moves to the position.
　(Ii) the drive shaft 2 when rotating in the second direction, the rotational driving force F2 in the second direction to the pinion member 24 is not transmitted, the pinion member 24 idles relative to the driving shaft 2. Therefore, the pinion member 24 can not resist the advancing direction of the force F3 due to propulsion applicator 30, and moves forward in accordance with the force F3, thus driving side roller 3 is also moved in the forward direction, the contact position to reach. In addition the contact position, the drive-side roller 3 receives a rotational driving force F2 of the drive shaft 2, to rotate the sample container A1 is rotated in the second direction.
　As described above, by a common single drive source unit, the movement and the drive side rollers 3, the operation and to rotate the object is achieved.
[0016]
　Here, by a common drive source unit, the movement and the drive side rollers 3, the principle of operation is obtained to rotate the object, it will be described in more detail. Note that the rotating object (the specimen container) In the present invention, as mentioned in the description of the background art, the central axis of the object (e.g., the central axis Y10 of the specimen container 110 shown in FIG. 7) the subject for It means to rotate the objects. Here, a description will be given of only the rotational operation and the moving operation given to the drive side roller 3. Also the drive side roller 3 is merely rotates in contact with a suitable contact force to the sample container A1 (pressing force), the specimen container A1 but may rotate, to rotate the specimen container A1 may include a mode for rotating while holding the sample container A1 and the driving side roller 3 by the driven-side member described later is more preferable. It will be described later driven member.
[0017]
　Preferred movement of the drive-side roller 3, as shown in Figure 1-1, the rotational center axis of the specimen container A1, which is held in place relative (not shown), the drive side rollers 3 of the central axis of rotation ( not shown) contacts close in parallel, a moving operation to leave. The following refers to the movement of the contact position as "forward", also referred to as a "retreat" to move to the separated position. To enable this movement, the drive unit (driving source unit 1 and the apparatus of the drive system having at least a drive shaft 2) 10 is held movably with respect to the support member B1.
　As a driving force for moving the movable retained drive unit 10 as described above, in the present invention, as shown in the examples, it utilizes a rotational driving force of the drive shaft. To convert the rotational driving force to the drive force for linearly moving the pinion member 24 is attached to the drive shaft 2, a rack member 26 meshing with the pinion member 24 is fixed to the support member B1. Between the drive shaft 2 and the pinion member 24 as described above, although the one-way transmission device is interposed, first, for the explanation of the operation will be described when the one-way transmission device is not.
　If the pinion member 24 directly fixed to the drive shaft 2, in accordance with the rotation of the drive shaft 2, the pinion member 24 moves on the rack member. When the pinion member 24 is advanced, to retreat, the drive unit 10, the drive shaft 2 and the drive-side roller 3 also moves in the same manner as the pinion member 24. However, just such an arrangement, the drive-side roller 3 in a state in contact with the sample container A1, if an attempt to rotate the sample container A1 by rotating the drive-side roller 3, in conjunction also the pinion member 24 since rotation, the drive-side roller 3, or attempts to further forward in the direction that cuts into the sample container, or to move away from the specimen container. Therefore, in the structure the one-way transmission device is not, can not be rotated preferably the sample container.
[0018]
　In this invention, as shown in the embodiment of FIG. 1-1, added further one-way transmission device 20 between the drive shaft 2 and the pinion member 24, bidirectional rotational driving force of the drive shaft 2 (F1, F2) out of which only is transmitted to the pinion member 24 rotates the driving force F1 in the first direction to retract the drive side roller 3. Thus, rotation of the first direction of the drive shaft 2 retracts the drive side roller 3. Meanwhile, when rotated in the second direction driving shaft 2 is reverse direction, by the action of the one-way transmission device 20, the rotational driving force F2 in the second direction are not transmitted to the pinion member 24. That is, the rotation of the second direction of the drive shaft 2 can not advance the drive side roller 3.
　In the present invention, as shown in the first embodiment, the forward direction of the force to advance the drive-side roller 3 and into contact with a sample container (if there is driven member, the gripping forces) to give F3 It is arranged propulsion applicator 30. Forward direction of the force applied by the propulsion force application section 30 (restoring force of the spring when propulsion applicator is spring. Hereinafter, also referred to as a force thrust of the advancing direction) F3, the driving unit 10 It acts as a force to advance the.
　Thus rotating, the one-way transmission device 20, the structure plus the thrust F3 applied by propulsion force applicator 30, when the drive shaft 2 is rotated in the first direction, the one-way transmission device 20 since the driving force F1 is transmitted to the pinion member 24, the pinion member 24 engages the rack member 26 moves backward against the driving force F3 propulsion applicator 30. Therefore, the drive-side roller 3 is also retracted, detached from the specimen container A1.
　On the other hand, when the driving shaft 2 is rotated in the second direction, the rotation driving force F2 in the second direction is not transmitted to the pinion member 24 by the action of the one-way transmission device, the drive-side roller 3, driving force applied propulsion vessel 30 (FIG. 1-1, the return force of the spring) is advanced by F3 only, the drive-side roller 3 reaches the contact position determined by the outer diameter of the specimen container, thrust propulsion applicator F3 is pressed against the specimen container A1 at. In this state, the specimen container A1 is a rotational driving force F2 in the second direction is rotated by receiving the drive side roller 3.
　The driving unit 10, driving force F3 propulsion applicator 30 is not be advanced indefinitely faster acting. Drive shaft 2 is rotated in a second direction, when the pinion member 24 is advanced by a propelling force F3 propulsion applicator 30, the rotational speed of the second direction of the pinion member 24, the second direction of the drive shaft 2 It can not exceed the speed of rotation. This rotational speed of the second direction of the pinion member exceeds the rotational speed of the second direction of the drive shaft 2, will be the drive shaft 2 rotates relative the first direction, one-way transmission driving force transmitting action of the device 20 is because fires. Thus, the rotational speed of the second direction of the drive shaft 2, since the second direction of the rotational speed of the upper limit of the pinion member, by controlling the rotational speed of the second direction of the drive shaft 2, the drive-side roller 3 it is possible to control the forward speed.
　If thrust applicator 30 is an elastic member such as a spring, the driving force (restoring force) F3 will vary depending on the position of the drive side roller 3, the restoring force F3 is the contact force at the contact position (press a pressure or gripping force). Drive shaft 2, in a state in which the drive-side roller 3 is pressed against the specimen container A1 in propulsion force F3, without rotating the pinion member 24 (i.e., without moving from the place), the drive-side roller 3 it can continue to rotate in the second direction (direction F2) together. Thus, the sample container A1, the second direction and preferably driven in the drive side rollers 3 rotate in opposite directions.
　As described above, in the present invention, as shown in the first embodiment, skillful and common drive source device, and the one-way transmission device, the rack member 26, the pinion member 24, and a driving force application section 30 in combination with, movement of contacting the drive-side roller 3 to the sample container A1 (contact with forward by thrust propulsion applicator), movement away from the specimen container (backward by rotational driving force of the first direction F1) , and applying rotating operation for rotating a sample container (rotation by the rotational driving force F2 in the second direction) to the drive side roller 3.
[0019]
　Driving source device 1 can be any drive shaft 2 a device capable of rotating in both directions. Driving source device 1, in order to rotate the drive shaft 2 in both directions, transmission links may include depending on, for example, required a joint. Driving source portion of the drive source device 1, when it is actuator, such as to output a linear reciprocating operation may include at transmission mechanism for converting the reciprocating motion to rotary motion. Figure 1-1, in Figure 1-2, the thick one-dot chain line connecting the drive source unit 1 and the drive shaft 2, transmission required between them (such as the various gears and couplings) may be further included which means that. Rotation in both directions may be created by the transmission device.
　Driving source device 1, the device is preferably for generating a rotational driving force output, among other things, the amount of rotation of the bidirectional electric motor capable of controlling the rotational speed is preferred. Such electric motors, stepping motors, etc. servomotor and the like. Driving source device 1, the drive shaft 2 may be directly driven.
[0020]
　Figure 1-1, Figure 1-2, in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 2-5, the device structure as a device for rotating into position a specimen container A1 to read the print on the label (especially bar code) It is. High rotational speed of the motor output shaft is a drive source apparatus 1 is transmitted from the small gear 4 to the gear wheel 5, the specimen container A1 is decelerated to a preferred rotational speed for rotating the drive-side roller 3 there. Instead of transmitting apparatus according to the small gear 4 of the large gear wheel 5, the belt and the size of the pulley (preferably, may also be used, such as transmission and toothed belt (timing belt) by a toothed pulley. Said transfer the device, the rotational driving force F1 to retreat against the thrust F3 propulsion applicator 30, and, preferably the rotational driving force F2 for rotating the sample container A1, is transmitted to the drive shaft 2.
[0021]
　As described above, in a preferred embodiment holds, as shown in FIG. 3, the output shaft of the motor which is a driving source device 1 is vertically oriented, parallel to the output shaft, the drive shaft 2 by the bearing device 6 are, overall drive unit is made compact. Positional relationship between the drive source unit 1 and the drive shaft 2 is not particularly limited, the output shaft of the drive source unit 1 and the drive shaft 2 may be directly connected to respective rotation central axis coincident or it may be connected at an angle.
[0022]
　Drive shaft, withstand pressure on the specimen container, having a mechanical strength capable of transmitting the rotational driving force is available. Material of the drive shaft include a plastic or metal materials for machine structures. Cross-sectional shape of the drive shaft, circular, may the like polygonal, may be a medium be hollow or solid. In a preferred embodiment of the embodiment, the main portion of the drive shaft is solid rod having a circular cross-sectional shape. Cross-sectional shape of the drive shaft may be varied as required, such as bonds with other members, it may not be uniform cross-sectional shape over the entire length.
[0023]
　Drive side roller, as can rotate with the drive shaft, it is coaxially fixed to the distal end of the drive shaft. However, in a preferred embodiment to be described later, between the drive shaft and the drive side roller, the second one-way transmission device is inserted, in a case where the drive shaft rotates in a first direction (when retracted), the drive rotation of the shaft 2 is configured so that it is not transmitted to the drive side roller.
　Drive side roller, at least the surface layer thereof is pressed without damaging the specimen container, the point of contact to the sample container without idle slip, preferably a layer made of an elastic, flexible material. Such surface materials, natural rubber, silicone rubber, other synthetic rubber, such as elastic and flexible synthetic resin such as urethane rubber, as is preferably resilient and flexible organic polymeric material.
　The outer diameter of the drive side roller, length, thickness of the surface layer, particularly limited considering Sarezu contact with the specimen container, and the rotational speed of the specimen container is determined according to the fuselage diameter of the sample container it may be determined as appropriate in.
　Fuselage diameter of the object is not particularly limited, if the object is a specimen container is about 10 mm ~ 15 mm, especially, the outer diameter of the sample container about 11.5 mm ~ 13 mm are generic use it is. The outer diameter of the sample container is not limited to the above range, it may be a sample container having an outer diameter outside the range.
[0024]
　Drive unit, so that the drive side roller 3 can move on the movement path including the contact position (gripping position) and the detaching position (release position), mounted movably on the support member B1 of the apparatus there. In the example shown in Figure 1-1, the drive-side roller 3 is in the separate position (retracted position). If there is a sample container A1, the drive-side roller 3 is moved to a position to be stopped by the specimen container (contact position), when there is no sample container is to be able to move to a predetermined position beyond the contact position it is preferable that it is in. In the example of Figure 1-1, to the separated position from the predetermined position beyond the contact position is the total length of the movement path, in the middle of the pathway includes a contact position defined by the body surface of the specimen container.
[0025]
　The total length of the movement path (moving distance of the drive-side roller 3) is not particularly limited, the object (especially, the sample container) may be determined depending on the outer diameter of.
　Moving path or middle of the stop position of the drive-side roller 3 can, depending on the requirements of use, appropriately set. The movement path of the drive-side roller 3, from the viewpoint of simply forming a moving mechanism is preferably a linear path, it may be a curved path.
[0026]
　In a preferred embodiment in the embodiment, as shown in FIG. 3, the drive source unit 1, transmission gear 4 and 5 the drive shaft 2, the drive-side roller 3, the element set of the drive system constituting the driving unit, such as a bearing device 6 , assembled on a bracket 7, the bracket 7 is mounted movably on the support member B1.
　Figure 1-1, as shown in Figure 1-2, the sample container A1 is generally because they are held in a state of standing on the transport holder A2, the drive shaft 2, the rotation center axis of the drive-side roller 3 also it is preferable to facing the vertical direction. Aspects of the support member for movably holding the drive unit is not particularly limited, the bracket and the support member and the like driving unit is mounted is also preferably have a vertical surface. 2, 3, 4-1, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 5, the bracket 7 and the supporting member B1 is formed by a plate member having a vertical plane, bending and drilling are performed. Bracket 7 and the support member B1 may be a rod-like or truss-like structure.
　Structure for mounting movably bracket 7 on the support member B1 is not particularly limited, can be employed a conventionally known moving mechanism. For example, a sliding mechanism using a key and keyway, shaft and bushing, and a variety of linear motion bearings and the like which are referred to as slide unit.
　3, by omitting the illustration of the driven unit 40 to be described later, are showing key B11 fixed to the vertical surface of the support member B1. The key B11 are moved in the bracket 7, and are used as a common key for moving the bracket the driven unit.
[0027]
　Between the drive unit 10 and the support member B1, thrust applicator 30 is provided. Propulsion applicator 30, as long as it can provide propulsion to the drive unit may be a single member or a single machine element, may be a device that combines them. Further, the propulsive force applicator 30 is preferably one that continues to provide the driving force throughout the range of movement of the drive unit, the driving force, when the drive unit is retracted, the driving force is the driving force of the drive unit the strength of the degree that you can retreat to overcome is preferable. The thrust may be a pushing force even force pulling the drive unit.
　The driving force application section 30 is not particularly limited, made of an elastic body (rubber, spring), a piston and a cylinder for applying a driving force as a fluid a working fluid, such as air, a shape memory alloy exhibiting a restoring force by heating like member is exemplified. Figure 1-1 and, in a preferred embodiment shown in FIGS. 2-5, propulsion force applying device 30, a spring, is set between the bracket 7 and the supporting member B1. The spring 30 is set in a state of being deformed from the original shape, the restoring force F3 is the driving side roller 3 through the bracket 7 and adapted to apply a force to press the further sample container in contact with the sample container.
　Spring materials, rubber (natural rubber, synthetic rubber), an organic polymer material having flexibility and elasticity, stainless steel, may be made of a metal spring material such as copper alloy, such as stainless steel metallic spring material is exemplified as a preferable material. Forms of spring, mass, linear, known forms of any spring (leaf spring, compression spring, tension, etc. coil spring) may be a tension coil spring is preferred embodiment. In the illustrated embodiment, the coil spring tension as the driving force applicator is used. 3, as it appears better in Figure 4-1, the tension coil spring 30 is mounted between the bracket 7 and the supporting member B1, through the bracket 7, the tensile force F3 is the action of the forward direction to the drive unit are (partially engaging the cited Zhang coil spring 30 to the support member B1 are omitted).
[0028]
　Thrust F3 propulsion applicator 30 at the separated position is not particularly limited, the drive unit is preferably moved, and the rotational driving force F1 of the drive unit is easily overcome, to keep the drive unit to the separated position load, such as it is is preferable. Propulsion thrust applicator at the contact position F3 (i.e., pressing force acting on the sample container from the driving side roller 3, or gripping force) is not particularly limited, pressing for rotating Preferably the sample container forces There may be a force that acts on the specimen container.
[0029]
　Figure 1-1, as shown in FIGS. 2 to 4-1, the fuselage outer periphery of the intermediate portion of the drive shaft 2, (commercially available one-way clutch in the embodiment) the one-way transmission device 20 is the drive shaft 2 coaxially with Jo to be fixed, to the driven side located outside of the one-way transmission device 20, the pinion member 24 is fixed to the drive shaft 2 coaxially. Then, the rack member 26 meshing with the pinion member 24 is fixed to the support member B1. This configuration, on the rack member 26 the pinion member 24 is moved (forward and backward), the match to the movement, to move the drive unit 10 with respect to the support member B1 (forward and backward).
　As described above, the rack member and a pinion member, it can use a combination, such as rotational movement of the pinion member is converted into linear motion on the rack member, the rack and pinion, a roller chain and sprocket, a toothed belt etc. (the timing belt) and the toothed pulley and the like. Pitch and tooth height of the rack member and a pinion member (rack and in the case of the pinion, the gear module), and the rotational speed of the drive shaft may be suitably determined in consideration of the size of the force transmitted.
　One-way transmission device 20 is only rotational driving force F1 in the first direction of the drive shaft 2 is configured to transmit to the pinion member. Then, the direction of rotation of the drive shaft 2, and the moving direction relative to the rack member 26 of the pinion member 24, the following (A), are associated so as to satisfy the operation of (B).
　(A) a drive shaft 2 when rotated in a first direction, the pinion member 24, the rotational drive force F1 is transmitted, the pinion member 24, thrust propulsion applicator 30 (to the object contact force) on the rack member 26 moves (backward) against F3, whereby the drive side roller 3 is moved to the release position.
　(B) when the drive shaft 2 is rotated in the second direction, the pinion member 24, the rotational driving force F2 is not transmitted, the pinion member 24, rack member in accordance with driving force F3 propulsion applicator 30 advanced over, thereby driving side roller 3 is moved to the contact position, the contact force to the sample container A1 by the action of (pressing force) F3, and the rotation of the second direction is transmitted from the drive shaft 2 rotating the sample container A1 by the force F2.
[0030]
　The one-way transmission device, and transmits only the rotational driving force of a single rotational direction, the rotational driving force in the opposite direction of rotation is configured not to transmit a rotational driving force transmitting device. Transmission mechanism itself of the one-way transmission device, reference may be made to the prior art. The one-way transmission device, the ratchet mechanism, freewheel, such one-way clutch and the like, may be utilized on equipment that is commercially available, or may be designed in the examples only of the present invention. In Figure 1-1, it is not shown one-way transmission device inside the selective power transmission mechanism.
　One-way transmission devices available in the present invention, FIG. 1-1, as shown in Figure 1-2, which exhibits a tubular so as to be mounted on the body of the drive shaft 2 is preferable. Figure 1-1 ,, Figure 1-2 and, in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 2-5, a preferred one-way transmission device, the one-way clutch which exhibits a cylindrical shape is used. Drive side portion of the one-way clutch is either fixed to the body of the drive shaft 2, or is integral with the drive shaft, the pinion member 24 via a connecting member 22 to the outer periphery of the outer follower portion of fixed there.
[0031]
　Figure 6 is a diagram for explaining the principle of selective transfer of the one-way clutch is a preferred one-way transmission device. Structure shown in Figure 6, is only an illustrative example, the interior of the transmission mechanism has been developed a variety of aspects.
　As shown in FIG. 6, the one-way clutch includes a drive portion 20a, a transmission mechanism part for selective transmission (20c, 20d, 20e) and, a driven-side portion 20b. Drive-side part 20a and the driven portion 20b is switched according to the position of the driving source. In the first and second embodiments, the driving-side portion 20a may be a inner tubular part (drive shaft at its center is fitted), be integral with the drive shaft good. In the example of FIG. 6, so for clarity, the transmission mechanism portion can three parts (20c, 20d, 20e) are constituted by constituting a fewer parts and more parts it is.
　The outer ring to the (outer side of the tubular part) inner surface of the driven portion 20b is, is formed a cam surface 20b1 by a predetermined number, between the outer surface 20a1 of the cam surface 20b1 and the driving-side portion 20a is a circular columnar roller (for parts of a sphere or an irregular also) 20c and the spring 20d is held by the retainer (dashed line) 20e. As shown in FIG. 6 (a), when the driving-side portion 20a is about to rotate in the direction (first direction) of the counter-clockwise as indicated by an arrow, by the action of the spring 20d, roller 20c is in engagement position of the cam surface 20b1 advances, the wedge action between the outer surface 20a1 of the driving-side portion 20a and the cam surface 20b1, the driving-side portion 20a and a driven side portion 20b is connected, the rotational driving force of the driven-side portion 20b in the counterclockwise direction is transmitted It is. On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 6 (b), when the driving-side portion 20a is about to rotate in the clockwise direction indicated by an arrow, against the action of the spring 20d, roller 20c moves away from the engagement position of the cam surface 20b1 no longer in contact with the cam surface Te, the connection between the driving-side portion 20a and the driven portion 20b is released, the driven side portion 20b is idle with respect to the drive portion 20a.
　The above is the principle of one-way transmission in the one-way clutch. Cam surface may also be formed on the inner ring of the outer surface 20a1, in some cases the retainer is not. Construction details of the one-way clutch can be referred to the prior art.
　Incidentally, as is clear from the transfer principle of one-way transmission device described above, from a state in which connection is released between the drive-side part and the driven part (idling state), if the drive shaft is rotated to the first direction , state that the drive portion and the driven portion is coupled required (transmission state) and fine time until, during which, if the rotational driving force of the first intended direction becomes transitional state not transmitted there is. Conversely, the transmission state, in order to release the connection, when the driving portion is inverted to the second direction, it takes a minute time to the idle state, during which, the unintended second direction in some cases the rotational driving force is transient conditions transmitted. In the present invention, when the one-way transmission device is the "only rotational drive force in the first direction of the drive shaft is transmitted to the driven side portion", the drive shaft rotates in a first direction, the rotational driving force is transmitted it may include a transient state that is not, and when the drive shaft rotates in the second direction, the rotational driving force may also include a transient state that is transmitted.
[0032]
　In a first embodiment, the structure for fixing the pinion member to the driven side portion of the one-way transmission device is not particularly limited. Pinion member is not affected by the rotation of the drive shaft, it may be fixed so as to be rotationally driven by the driven side portion of the one-way transmission device. In Figure 1-1, for purposes of explanation, the drive shaft 2, are shown as a gap between the central hole of the pinion 24, the center hole of the pinion member 24 rotatably on the drive shaft 2 it may be in contact, also, between the center hole of the pinion member 24 and the drive shaft 2, metal bush or bearing may be interposed.
　Figure 1-1 and, in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 2-5, connector 22 of the tubular to the driven side portion of the outer periphery of the one-way clutch 20 exhibits a cylindrical shape is fixed by screws, one end of the connecting component 22 boss of the pinion member 24 is fitted into the inside of the section are fixed by a set screw penetrating the connector. These fixation can be an example, adhesives, welding, welding, appropriately selecting the fixing means such as press fitting.
[0033]
　Next, a second embodiment of the present invention.
　In a second embodiment of the present invention, the device converts the rotational driving force to said first direction, a mechanism for moving in a direction leaving the driven unit is further provided from the object, a driven unit but it configured to be moved. As shown in Figure 1-2, the mechanism has a drive-side roller 3 in cooperation with the follower unit 40 having a driven-side member 41 to rotatably grip the object. Then, the mechanism, the converts the rotational driving force F1 in the first direction to be transmitted to the driven side portion of the one-way transmission device, configured to move in a direction leaving the driven unit 40 from the object A1 It is. Such mechanism, the following configurations can be exemplified.
　Driving unit 10, the configuration and its action of one-way transmission device 20 provided in the drive shaft 2, it is as described in the first embodiment. As shown in Figure 1-2, in the second embodiment, the driven unit 40, the movement path including the contact position where the driven-side member 41 comes into contact with the object A1, and a spaced position away from the object A1 to move on, movably mounted on the support member B1. As between the driven unit 40 and the support member B1, the force in the forward direction to be contacted with the object A1 to move the driven member 41 in the direction of the contact position F4 is applied to the driven-side member 41, thrust applicator 31 is provided. One end of the driving force applicator 31 is fixed to any suitable position of the drive unit 10, the other end of the driving force applicator 31 is secured to any suitable position of the support member B1. A forward direction of the drive-side roller 3 in the first embodiment, the forward direction of the driven member 41 in the second embodiment is opposite the direction facing each other.
　The driven-side portion of the one-way transmission device 20 is provided with a first pulley member 24P, a second pulley member 27 provided on the support member B1, with these first pulley member and a second pulley member endless belt member 28 is stretched between. Structure for fixing the first pulley member 24 to the driven side portion of the one-way transmission device 20 is not particularly limited, as in the first embodiment, may be used such as coupler 22 of the tubular. Endless belt member 28, when the first pulley member 27 is rotated in a first direction, has a linear portion 28S which moves in the backward direction opposite to the advancing direction of the driven part 41. Follower unit 40 is fixed to the straight portion 28S. In Figure 1-2, the driven unit 40 is fixed to the straight portion 28S via the fixing member 45.
　First pulley member 24P is rotated by receiving a rotational driving force F1 in the first direction transmitted through the one-way transmission device 20. By a rotational driving force F1 of the first pulley member 24P, the endless belt member 28 is rotated, the linear portion 28S of a driven unit 40 is fixed against the advancing direction of the force F4 from propulsion applicator 31, the forward direction to move to the opposite backward direction. As described above, when the drive shaft 2 is rotated in the first direction, the driven unit 40 is moved to the backward direction by the endless belt member 28.
[0034]
　Like the first embodiment, wherein the important point is, between the drive shaft 2 and the first pulley member 24P, and the one-way transmission device 20 is interposed, whereby the first driving shaft 2 only rotational driving force F1 in one direction is that it is transmitted to the first pulley member 24P. Thus, as in the first embodiment,
when rotated in a first direction (i) the drive shaft 2, a first pulley member 24P receives the rotational driving force F1 in the first direction, endless moving the linear portion 28S of the belt member 28 in the backward direction, whereby the driven-side member 41 is moved to the separated position.
(Ii) On the other hand, when the drive shaft 2 is rotated in the second direction, the first pulley member 24P is the rotational driving force F2 in the second direction is not transmitted, the first pulley member 24P driveshaft to idle for two. Therefore, the linear portion 28S of the endless belt member 28 can not resist the advancing direction of the force F4 by propulsion applicator 31, and moves forward in accordance with the force F4 (i.e., the endless belt member 28 is annularly move), thus also moves in the forward direction driven member 41, and reaches the contact position. In addition the contact position, the driven-side member 41, so pressing the specimen container A1 in the forward direction of the force F4 on the drive side roller 3, the sample container A1 is rotated by receiving a rotational driving force F2 of the drive shaft 2. As described above, by a common single drive source unit, the movement and the driven-side member 41, the operation and to rotate the object A1 is achieved.
[0035]
　In the second embodiment, by a single driving source device, the principles moving and the driven-side member 41, the operation of rotating the object obtained is similar to the principle of the first embodiment described above.
　When the driven member 41 is driven rollers described later, the preferred movement operation, as shown in Figure 1-2, the rotational center axis of the specimen container A1, which is held in place relative (not shown) , contact the central axis of rotation of the driven side roller (not shown) is close in parallel, a moving operation to leave. Here, too, refers to the movement of the contact position as "forward" refers to the movement of the spaced apart position as a "retreat". To enable this movement, the driven unit 40 is movably held with respect to the support member B1.
　As a driving force for moving the follower unit 40 which is movably held as described above, in the second embodiment utilizes a rotational driving force of the drive shaft. To convert the rotational driving force to the drive force for linear movement, the drive shaft 2 is mounted a first pulley member 24P, a second pulley member 27 is provided on the support member B1. And the drive shaft 2 between the first pulley member 24P, the one-way transmission device 20 is interposed.
[0036]
　When the first pulley member 24P directly fixed to the drive shaft 2, in accordance with the rotation of the drive shaft 2 bi, the first pulley member 24P drives the endless belt member 28. Linear portion 28S is advancement of the endless belt member 28, when retracted, the driven unit 40 and the driven-side member 41 also moves integrally. However, just such a configuration, in a state where the drive-side roller 3 is brought into contact with the sample container A1, the rotate the drive-side roller 3 to rotate the sample container A1, even the first pulley member 24P because it rotated in conjunction with each other, the driven Dogawa member 41, or attempts to further forward in the direction that cuts into the sample container, or to move away from the specimen container. Therefore, in the structure the one-way transmission device is not, can not be rotated by preferably gripping the specimen container by the drive-side roller 3 and the driven member 41.
[0037]
　Therefore, in the present invention, as shown in FIGS. 1-2 and the second embodiment, further addition of one-way transmission device 20 between the drive shaft 2 and the first pulley member 24P, the drive shaft 2 bidirectional of the rotational driving force (F1, F2), and only the rotational driving force F1 in the first direction to retract the driven-side member 41 is transmitted to the first pulley member 24P. Thus, rotation of the first direction of the drive shaft 2 retracts the driven member 41. Meanwhile, when rotated in the second direction driving shaft 2 is reverse direction, by the action of the one-way transmission device 20, the rotational driving force F2 in the second direction are not transmitted to the pulley member 24P. That is, the rotation of the second direction of the drive shaft 2 can not advance the driven member 41.
　In the second embodiment, in order to give the (gripping forces by the drive-side roller 3) F4 forward direction of force to advance the driven member 41 and into contact with the sample container, place the thrust applied 31 there. As with the forward direction of the force (first embodiment imparted by said propulsion force applying device 31, the spring if driving force applicator is spring return force. Hereinafter, again, the force of the advancing direction also referred to as driving force to) F4 acts as a force for advancing the driven unit 40.
　Thus rotating, the one-way transmission device 20, the structure plus the thrust F4 applied by propulsion force applicator 31, when the drive shaft 2 is rotated in the first direction, the one-way transmission device 20 since the driving force F1 is transmitted to the first pulley member 24P, the endless belt member is driven to retract against the thrust F4 of the propulsion force applicator 31. Therefore, even retract the driven member 41, released from the specimen container A1.
　On the other hand, when the driving shaft 2 is rotated in the second direction, the rotation driving force F2 in the second direction is not transmitted to the first pulley member 24P by the action of the one-way transmission device, the driven-side member 41, (Figure 1-2, the return force of the spring) propulsion thrust applicator 31 moves forward only by F4, the driven-side member 41 reaches the contact position determined by the outer diameter of the specimen container, thrust applied is pressed against the specimen container A1 in vessel propulsion F4, grips the sample container A1 in cooperation with the driven side roller 3. In this state, the specimen container A1 is a rotational driving force F2 in the second direction is rotated by receiving the drive side roller 3.
[0038]
　In the second embodiment, as in the first embodiment, the driven unit 40, thrust F4 of the propulsion force applicator 31 is not be advanced at a high speed indefinitely also act. When the drive shaft 2 is rotated in a second direction, the linear portion 28S of a driven unit 40 and the endless belt member is advanced by thrust F4 of the propulsion force applicator 31, the rotation of the second direction of the first pulley member 24P rate can not exceed the rotational speed of the second direction of the drive shaft 2. This rotational speed of the second direction of the first pulley member 24P exceeds the rotational speed of the second direction of the drive shaft 2, will be the drive shaft 2 rotates relative the first direction, driving force transmitting action of the one-way transmission device 20 is because fires. Thus, the rotational speed of the second direction of the drive shaft 2, since the second direction of the rotational speed of the upper limit of the first pulley member 24P (upper limit of the moving speed of the endless belt member), the second direction of the drive shaft 2 by controlling the rotational speed, it is possible to control the forward speed of the driven member 41.
　If thrust applicator 31 is an elastic member such as a spring, the driving force (restoring force) F4 changes according to the position of the driven member 41, the restoring force F4 is the contact force at the contact position (press a pressure or gripping force). Drive shaft 2, in a state where the driven-side member 41 is pressed against the specimen container A1 in propulsion force F4 (i.e., in a state of gripping the sample container A1), without rotating the first pulley member 24P, can together with the drive-side roller 3 continues to rotate in the second direction (the direction of F2). Thus, the sample container A1, the second direction and preferably driven in the drive side rollers 3 rotate in opposite directions.
　As described above, in the second embodiment of the present invention, a common drive source device, and the one-way transmission device, first, second pulley member, and, and the endless belt member, and a driving force application section skillfully combining, moving operation of contacting the driven-side member 41 to the sample container A1 (contact with forward by thrust F4 propulsion applicator), the driven-side member 41 moving operation for separating from the sample container (the first direction backward by rotational driving force F1), it is producing rotational motion for rotating the sample container (rotation by rotational driving force F2 in the second direction).
[0039]
　Endless belt member 28 and the pulley member (first pulley member 24P, the second pulley member 27) may be a general V-belt and V pulleys, but the rotational driving force F1 and the rotation of the drive shaft 2 the amount, without sliding, reliably in terms of transmitting the endless belt member, a toothed belt (timing belt) and the toothed pulley, a roller chain and sprocket are preferred, in particular, a toothed belt and the toothed pulley, the belt is a lightly quiet, preferable.
[0040]
　Fixing member 45 has a portion secured to the straight portion 28S, a member having a portion secured to the driven unit 40, the embodiment is not limited, as it can fix the driven unit 40 to the linear portion 28S it is sufficient. In the example of Figure 1-2, the fixing member 45, having a clamp portion that grips the linear portion 28S of the endless belt member 28 by the two plates (volts strangled) and a portion which is fixed to the driven unit 40 connected it is a vessel.
[0041]
　In a second embodiment, the first pulley member, the second pulley member, each unit other than the mechanism using an endless belt member (supporting member, a driving source device, transmitting device, the drive shaft, a driving-side roller) is it may refer to the respective parts of the first embodiment. Thrust application section 31 in the second embodiment, except that the direction of the propulsive force are opposite, may refer to the driving force applicator 30 in the first embodiment.
[0042]
　In the second embodiment, the drive-side roller 3 located in contact with the outer surface of the specimen container A1, or located in the vicinity thereof. As shown in FIG. 5, a number of sample containers, to move one after another between the drive-side roller and the driven member, to stop the gripping position. The outer diameter of the large number of sample container is different central value only trace amounts by the manufacturer, also be a sample container of the same manufacturer, the outer diameter is manufacturing error.
　However, several mm sample containers laterally, so as to be relatively free to move, by leaving loosely held in such transport holders A2 the specimen container, the specimen container, the driven-side member 41 pushed, it may move to the driving side roller 3. Further, the outer surface of the drive side roller 3, even though slightly protrude into the transfer path of the sample container, the sample container come to move to the gripping position strikes the outer surface of the drive side roller 3, the specimen container, It can move laterally without resistance.
　In this way, even when the drive-side roller 3 are arranged in a fixed position, it is possible to send a large number of sample containers between the drive-side roller and the driven member, the drive-side roller 3 and the driven-side member 41 Accordingly, it is possible to preferably grip the sample container.
　Similarly, even if the device in the first embodiment has a driven-side member 41, by previously loosely held in such transport holders A2 the specimen container, the specimen container, the drive-side roller 3 pushed by, may move to the driven-side member 41. Therefore, it is configured to move only the drive-side roller 3 can preferably grip the sample container.
[0043]
　In the first and second embodiments of the preferred embodiments of the present invention, after the drive-side roller is rotated to a position in contact with the sample container and purposes, we focus on the following phenomenon that occurs at the moment away from the specimen container, taken up as this additional problems to be solved, it is imparted to the device structure to solve the problem.
　As described above, in the first embodiment, the drive-side roller rotates the sample container is rotated in a second direction. After the rotation of the sample container is finished, the drive-side roller by rotating in a first direction, using the rotation driving force of the pinion member, detached from the specimen container against the thrust of the propulsion force applicator . That is, due to the unique configuration of the apparatus, the drive-side roller, away from the sample container while rotating in the first direction. Due to this unique behavior, in a very short time until the drive-side roller is separated from the sample container to reduce the pressing force to the specimen container, the effect of rotation in the first direction of the sample container, the drive-side roller received, there is a case to be rotated by a small amount.
　In conventional analysis systems to rotate the sample container, after reading the information of the label, not a no problem even if the rotating sample container further. The reason is that in the conventional analysis systems, after transferred a specimen container to the inspection stage, when reading the information of the label again, since rotating the sample container again.
　In contrast, in the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the position of the rotated sample container on the transport holder as it is stored, it is proposed to take advantage of its position even when the subsequent confirmation. Accordingly, upon re-confirmation of the label information at a later stage, it is not necessary to rotate the sample container again. Therefore, in a preferred embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 1-1, as Figure 1-2 shown in FIG. 2, between the drive shaft 2 and the drive-side roller 3, the second one-way transmission device 6 is interposed ing. The second one-way transmission device 6, as opposed to the transfer action of the one-way transmission device 20 described above, using only the rotational driving force F2 in the second direction of the drive shaft 2 so as to transmit the driving side roller It is. In the example of FIG second one-way transmission device is arranged in a posture in which is upside down of the first one-way transmission device.
　This configuration, after the drive-side roller rotates the rotating sample container A1 in the second direction, when detached from the specimen container, the drive shaft 2 is also rotated in the first direction, the second direction by the action of the transmission, the drive side roller driving force F1 in the first direction is not transmitted. Therefore, the drive-side roller 3, without rotating the sample container A1 (i.e., to the position of the label A11 of the sample container A1 intact), can be detached from the specimen container A1, to maintain the position of the specimen container be able to.
　Manner to impart a second one-way transmission device to drive side roller 3 as described above, may be applied to an embodiment of the first and 2, but the sample container A1 drive side roller 3 itself is moved is a particularly preferred embodiment to the first embodiment pressed away.
[0044]
　The second one-way transmission device 6, a commercially available one-way clutch having the same structure as the one-way transmission device 20 described above are preferably used, those smaller to fit inside the roller is preferred. Figure 1-1, Figure 1-2 and, in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 2-5, the second one-way transmission device 6, the one-way clutch which exhibits a cylindrical shape is used, the driving side portion of the one-way clutch is fixed to the drive shaft 2, or is integral with the drive shaft 2, the drive-side roller is fixed to the driven side of the outer. As with the one-way transmission device 20 described above, these fixing methods, the screw, adhesive, welding, fusion, can be appropriately selected fixing means such as press fitting.
[0045]
　Like the second embodiment, in the first embodiment, the apparatus preferably has a driven-side member 41 to rotatably grip the sample container A1 of interest in cooperation with the drive-side roller 3 .
　In the first and second embodiments, a preferred embodiment of the driven Dogawa member 41, as shown in FIG. 3, a two driven rollers 42, 43 which can freely rotate. These two driven rollers 42 and 43, similar to the drive side roller 3, it is preferable surface layer is a layer made of a resilient and flexible organic polymeric material. Drive side rollers 3 and two driven rollers 42 and 43, as in the prior art shown in FIG. 8, preferably arranged to grip the specimen container at three points.
[0046]
　4, as it appears preferable to Figure 3, in the first and second embodiments of the present invention, the driven member (driven side roller 42, 43) is part of the driven unit 40. Follower unit 40, two driven shafts 42a having a driven roller 42, 43 to each tip is at least have to configure 43a.
[0047]
　In the first embodiment, (in a preferred embodiment of the first embodiment, the driven roller 42, 43) driven member 41 may be fixedly secured in a fixed position close to the sample container A1. In a preferred aspect of the first embodiment, as the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3 to 5, performs drive side roller synchronously with the cooperation with the opening and closing operation, configured to release holding the sample container . Specific embodiments Examples of mechanisms for performing the opening and closing operation (opening and closing mechanism) will be described.
[0048]
[First embodiment example of the opening and closing mechanism]
　In a first exemplary aspect of the opening and closing mechanism, by a pair of rack members and one pinion, the drive unit and the driven unit moves in the opposite direction at the same time.
　Figure 4-1, as appearing in FIG. 5, the follower unit 40 includes a bracket 44, to the bracket 44 two driven shafts 42a, 43 b extend downwardly is fixed. Bracket 44 is in the same mechanism as the bracket 7 of the drive unit 10 is mounted movably on the support member B1.
　As is well appearing in FIG. 3, is from the bracket 7 of the drive unit 10 of the second rack member 51 extends, the bracket 44 of the driven unit (not shown in FIG. 3) from the third of rack member 52 extends. These and second rack member 51 third rack member 52 is disposed in a state in which the respective teeth are opposed to each other, between them, a second pinion which is pivotally supported by the support member B1 member 53 is disposed, the second rack member 51 is a third rack member 52 meshes with the second pinion member 53, respectively. Moved by this arrangement, the drive unit is in one direction (e.g., left in FIG. 3) moves to the second rack member 51 rotates the second pinion member 53, the third rack member 52 in the right direction is allowed, the driven unit 40 also moves to the right. That is, the movement of the one-way drive unit, causes the movement in the opposite direction of the driven unit, and the drive-side roller 3 and the driven-side member 41 (the driven side roller 42, 43), approaching at the same time to the sample container A1 the gripping the specimen container, also to release the specimen container away simultaneously from the sample container.
　In the illustrated embodiment, the second rack member 51, the third rack member 52 are both a rack, a second pinion member 53 is a pinion, the rack member and a pinion member described above it may be a combination.
[0049]
Second exemplary aspect of the opening and closing mechanism]
　In a second exemplary aspect of the opening and closing mechanism, by using the two parts move in opposite directions to each other in one of the endless belt member, the drive unit and the driven unit simultaneously in opposite directions Moving.
　The configuration of the second embodiment example, as shown schematically in Figure 4-2, the support member B1 includes a pair of pulley members 56 and 57 are provided. The endless belt member 58 is stretched between the pair of pulleys members. Endless belt member 58 has a linear portion 58S1,58S2 a pair of moving parallel to extend and in opposite directions and the forward direction of the driving unit 10. Of the linear portion of the pair, the one straight portion 58S1 drive unit 10 is fixed via a fixing member 59a, the driven unit 40 is fixed via a fixing member 59b to the other linear portion 58S2 .
　This arrangement moves in one direction of the drive unit 10 (left direction indicated by the arrows) through the endless belt member 58, causing movement in the opposite direction of the driven unit 40 (right direction indicated by the arrow). Thus, the drive-side roller 3 and the driven-side member 41 (the driven side roller) grips the specimen container close simultaneously in the sample container A1, also to release the specimen container away simultaneously from the specimen container A1.
[0050]
　In the example of Figure 4-2, a pair of pulleys members 56 and 57 are provided directly on the surface of the support member B1, the axis of rotation of the pulleys, but extends in a horizontal direction from the surface of the support member B1, it is limited not, the axis of rotation of the pulleys, by using a L-shaped bracket may extend vertically.
　The endless belt member is not particularly limited, may be a flat belt, that extends even under a tensile force is small is preferred.
　Fixing members 59a, 59b may refer to the fixing member 45 described above.
[0051]
　In the opening and closing mechanism, Fig. 4-1 (or FIGS. 4-2) as shown in, the second thrust applied 54 (or 54b) is provided between the driven unit 40 and the support member B1 . One end of the second thrust applicator is secured to any suitable position of the driven unit 40, the other end of the driving force applicator wherein the second, fixed to any suitable position of the support member B1 It is. In the illustrated example, the second thrust applicator is a spring. The spring is set in a state of being deformed from the original shape, restoring force is so exerted as a force for gripping the specimen container A1 to the driven side roller 42, 43.
　In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3 to 5, as in the case of the drive unit 10, the tension coil spring is used as spring 54 that acts on the follower unit 40. 3, as it appears better in Figure 4-1, the cited Zhang coil spring 54 is mounted between the bracket 44 and the support member B1, through the bracket 44, toward the specimen container A1 is the driven unit 40 direction tensile force is acting (the engagement portion between the cited Zhang coil spring 54 and the supporting member B1 are omitted). Second thrust applicator 54 to be applied to the driven unit 40 (or, 54b) force (restoring force if a spring) may be appropriately determined. In a first exemplary aspect of the opening and closing mechanism, the force of the second thrust applicator 54 includes a third rack member 52, the pinion member 53 through a second rack member 51, also acts on the drive unit , the gripping force increases the contact force. Therefore, when applying the second thrust applicator 54 may also weaken the thrust F3 propulsion applicator drive unit side. Similarly, in the second embodiment example of the switching mechanism, the force of the second thrust applicator 54b, through the endless belt 58, also acts on the drive unit, the gripping force increases the contact force. Therefore, when applying the second thrust applicator 54b can also weaken the thrust F3 propulsion applicator drive unit side.
　In a first embodiment, the second thrust applied 54 (or 54b) is not essential, the second thrust applicator to a moving mechanism of the driven unit 40 (especially the tension coil spring) 54, (or, by providing 54b) as described above, the driven unit 40 eliminates the play of the moving direction, a simple structure while the action from both the drive side rollers and the drive side roller, the gripping force of the preferred balance in the sample container it is possible to.
[0052]
　As shown in FIG. 3, to the device, the sensor 60 and for the detection of the presence or absence of the sample container, forward of the drive unit, such as a sensor 61 for detecting the retracted, incidental various sensors is preferably provided as appropriate.
　For example, if there is a sensor 60 for detection of the presence or absence of the sample container, if it is not held sample container to transport the holder, without performing wasteful forward operation, it sends a transport holder, access to the next sample container it becomes possible to.
[0053]
　As a result of the sample container is rotated, the fact that the position of the label affixed to the fuselage of the sample container has come to a preferred position, detected using and bar code reader for reading a bar code on the label, an appropriate detection sensor can do. Thus, in accordance with the detection result, the rotation of the drive side roller it is sufficient to stop the rotation of the sample container stops.
[0054]
　Figure 5 illustrates a transport holder which holds a number of the sample container, an example of the positional relationship between the drive-side roller and the driven member of the device (two driven rollers).
　Sample container to be rotated, to simply be just passes between the drive-side roller and the driven member (the two driven rollers), drive-side roller and the driven-side member than once the sample container is specimen containers from rose to above may be a manner such as to move.
　These aspects can be determined appropriately drive side roller and the driven-side member depending on whether release much from the specimen container.
　The drive-side roller and the driven member as such transport holders are sent when away from the specimen container, the operation of the said device, it is preferable to associate the feeding of the transfer holder.
[0055]
　The apparatus of the present invention may be an independent device, the operation and the driving source device 1 may be provided with a control unit for controlling the sensor incidental. Alternatively, the apparatus of the present invention may be a one stage of the apparatus of a larger analysis systems may be controlled by a control unit for the whole such analysis systems.
[0056]
　Object apparatus is to rotate the invention, other sample container described above, for example, containers such as bottles and cans, material to be processed, it may be a measuring object.
　Also, if the object is a specimen container, the specimen container, blood collected from a living body, urine, containing the sample to be analyzed, such as feces container (such as a blood collection tube) were housed any analytical sample such as mineral container it may be.
　Further, the purpose of device of the present invention rotates the object is not particularly limited, for example, be printed directly on a surface thereof according (bar code) or an object of a label affixed to the surface of the object rotation for reading the description was, the object rotation for inspecting from multiple directions, the rotation for processing the object from multiple directions, the liquid contained in the containing fluid (specimen container into the container etc. of the sample) rotation for stirring the may be any rotation.
Industrial Applicability
[0057]
　By the apparatus of the present invention, it achieved a moving operation for the drive unit or the driven unit is separated into contact with the object, and a rotation operation for the drive unit rotates the object by one common drive source device It became so to be. The device is particularly useful for the rotation of the specimen container in such as reading labels of the sample container of the blood collection tube or the like which is held in the transport holder.
[0058]
　The present application, Japanese Patent Application filed in Japan 2015-243974: If you are based on the (filing date 2015, December 15, 2009), the contents of which are incorporated in full herein by this reference.
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS
[0059]
　　First drive source unit
　　2 drive shaft
　　3 driven side roller
　　10 driving unit
　　20 one-way transmission device
　　22 connector
　　24 the pinion member
　　26 rack member
　　24P first pulley member
　　27 second pulley member
　　28 endless belt member
　　30 thrust application section
　　40 follower unit
　　41 driven member
　　A1 object
　　B1 supporting member
　　rotational driving force of the F1 first direction
　　F2 rotational driving force in the second direction
　　force in the forward direction by the thrust application section in F3 first embodiment
　　F4 second embodiment force in the forward direction by the thrust applicator in

The scope of the claims
[Requested item 1]
A device for rotating an object,
the apparatus having at least, the supporting member and the driving unit and the thrust applicator
drive unit, a drive shaft, a first direction is bidirectional the drive shaft and a driving source device for rotating in the second direction, the drive shaft has a drive-side roller to transmit the rotary motion to said object when in contact with the object,
　the drive shaft is one-way transmission device provided, the one-way transmission device, and a driving portion and the driven portion, the driving shaft is integral with or driven side portion is fixed to the drive portion, and the one-way transmission device is only rotational drive force in the first direction of the drive shaft has a mechanism for transmitting to the driven portion,
　the device,
　the rotational driving force in the first direction is transmitted to the driven side portion of the one-way transmission device It converts the drive unit Or a mechanism for moving in a direction away from the elephant thereof, or, converting a rotational driving force in the first direction to transmit to the driven side portion of the one-way transmission device, in a direction leaving the follower unit from the object a mechanism for moving the, the driven unit, which includes a driven-side member for rotatably gripping the object in cooperation with the drive-side roller,
　the rotational driving force to said second direction of the drive shaft Accordingly, the driving-side roller is rotated so as to transmit the rotation operation to the object,
said device.
[Requested item 2]
　The device converts the rotational driving force in the first direction, has the mechanism for moving in a direction leaving the drive unit from the object,
　the drive unit, the contact position of the drive-side roller contacts the object When, to move on the movement path including a spaced position away from the object, the mounted movably on the support member,
　between the drive unit and the supporting member, the drive-side roller as the force in the forward direction for contacting the object is moved in the direction of the contact position is applied to the drive side roller, thrust applicator is provided,
　on the driven side portion of the one-way transmission device, the pinion member is provided, the rack member meshing with the pinion member is provided on the supporting member, by a rotational driving force in the first direction to be transmitted to the pinion member through a one-way transmission device, the biasing by the propulsion force applicator Against the advancing direction of the force, the reverse pinion member to retract direction moves on the rack member and said forward direction, whereby the drive unit is moved to the backward direction,
according to claim 1 device.
[Requested item 3]
　Further comprising a driven member, the driven Dogawa member, when the drive-side roller contacts the said object as the object is rotatable, an object can be rotated in cooperation with the drive-side roller it is a member for gripping the apparatus of claim 2.
[Requested item 4]
　The device has a driven unit, the driven unit has the driven-side member, and is movably held on the support member,
　from the drive unit extends the second rack member , from the driven unit extends the third rack member, first and second rack members are third rack member, in a state in which the respective teeth are opposed to each other, are rotatably supported between them meshes with the second pinion member,
　moving in one direction of the drive unit causes the movement in the opposite direction of the driven unit, grip driving side roller and the driven member, the object approaches at the same time the object and, to release the object away simultaneously from the object, the second rack member and the third rack member and second pinion member are assembled associated,
in claim 3 instrumentation described .
[Requested item 5]
　The device has a driven unit, the driven unit has the driven-side member, and wherein is movably held on the support member,
　said the support member is provided with a pair of pulley members are, we are a pair of pulleys members hung the endless belt member, the endless belt member has a straight portion of a pair of moving in the forward direction and extends parallel to and opposite each other,
　of the pair of straight portion, the one straight line to the portion drive unit fixed to the other of the straight portions and the driven unit is fixed, whereby the movement in one direction of the drive unit, through the endless belt member Te causes movement in the opposite direction of the driven unit, thereby, the drive-side roller and the driven member to grip the object approaches at the same time the object, and the object away simultaneously from the object solutions Which is so,
according to claim 3.
[Requested item 6]
　Between the driven unit and the support member, the second thrust applicator such that a force gripping direction to the driven side member is applied is provided, according to claim 4 or 5.
[Requested item 7]
　The device converts the rotational driving force in the first direction, has the mechanism for moving in a direction leaving the driven unit is further provided from the object,
　the driven unit, the driven-side member in contact with the object a contact position in which, to move on the movement path including a spaced position away from the object, is mounted movably on the support member,
　between the driven unit and the support member is driven as the force in the forward direction for contacting the object is moved in the direction of the contact position of the side members it is applied to the driven side member, and driving force applicator is provided
　on the driven side portion of the one-way transmission device provided the first pulley member, the support member is provided with a second pulley member, the endless belt member is stretched between the these first pulley member and a second pulley member, endless belt member, a first pulley When the over member is rotated in a first direction, said has a linear portion which moves in the backward direction opposite to the forward direction,
　the the linear portion driven unit is fixed, the through the one-way transmission device 1 by a rotational driving force in the first direction is transmitted to the pulley member, the straight line portion is moved to the retracted direction against the force in the forward direction to be imparted by said propulsion force applying unit, whereby the follower unit moves to the backward direction,
the apparatus of claim 1.
[Requested item 8]
　Driven member, in cooperation with the drive-side roller is a two driven rollers which rotatably grip the object at three points A device according to any one of claims 3-7.
[Requested item 9]
　Between the drive shaft and the drive side roller, and the second one-way transmission device is interposed, the second one-way transmission device, only the rotary drive to the second direction of the drive shaft drive side roller a device for transmitting to, apparatus according to any one of claims 1-8.
[Requested item 10]
　Driving source device is a controllable motor to rotate in both directions, according to any one of claims 1-9.