JP2013064702A

JP2013064702A - Electrode protection body

Info

Publication number: JP2013064702A
Application number: JP2011204884A
Authority: JP
Inventors: Hideaki Nishimoto; 秀明西本; Shinnosuke Yoshimoto; 慎之介吉本; Kazuhiro Maeda; 和洋前田
Original assignee: Hitachi Maxell Ltd
Current assignee: Maxell Holdings Ltd
Priority date: 2011-09-20
Filing date: 2011-09-20
Publication date: 2013-04-11
Anticipated expiration: 2031-09-20
Also published as: JP5705075B2

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an electrode protection body for keeping a usable state by appropriately protecting ion selective electrodes even in a state where an electrode cartridge is removed from an analyzer, and suppressing the deterioration and damage of the electrodes.SOLUTION: An electrode protection body includes a plug part 11 to be inserted to a measurement tank 51 of an electrode cartridge 50. The plug part 11 is inserted to the measurement tank 51. Ring shape seal bodies are allowed to respectively adhere on the inner periphery of the measurement tank 51 on the upper side from the electrode films and the bottom of the measurement tank 51 on the lower side from the electrode films without allowing the outer periphery of the plug part 11 to come into contact with electrode films 52a, 54a forming ion selective electrodes exposed on the inner peripheral side of the measurement tank 51. A space between the measurement tank 51 and the plug part 11 is divided into an electrode film existence part held between the two seal bodies and the other part. The electrode films 52a, 54a are allowed to come into contact with only a gap part held between the seal bodies. Consequently, the electrode films are prevented from becoming a dry state due to contact with external air thereby to keep the ion selective electrodes 52, 54 in a usable state.

Description

本発明は、イオン選択性電極（Ion Selective Electrode；ＩＳＥ）を用いて、測定対象溶液中の特定のイオンの濃度を測定する分析装置における、カートリッジとして着脱可能に取扱われるイオン選択性電極を、分析装置から取外された非使用状態で保護する保護体に関する。 The present invention analyzes an ion-selective electrode that is detachably handled as a cartridge in an analyzer that measures the concentration of a specific ion in a solution to be measured using an ion-selective electrode (ISE). The present invention relates to a protector that protects a device when it is removed from a device.

臨床診断等の用途で、血液や尿などの生体サンプル中に含まれるナトリウムやカリウム、塩素などの特定のイオン成分を分析する電解質分析装置が利用されている。こうした分析装置としては、特定イオンに対応するイオン選択性電極と比較電極が設けられた測定槽や流路に、血液等の測定対象溶液を注入し、この溶液に接したイオン選択性電極と比較電極との間にあらわれる起電力を検出して、溶液中の特定イオンの濃度を算出、測定するタイプの自動分析装置が、最も多用されている。
こうした従来のイオン選択性電極を利用する分析装置の一例として、国際公開ＷＯ２０１１／０３４１６９号公報や特開２０１１−１２２８２３号公報に開示されるものがある。 In applications such as clinical diagnosis, an electrolyte analyzer that analyzes specific ion components such as sodium, potassium, and chlorine contained in a biological sample such as blood and urine is used. As such an analysis device, a solution to be measured such as blood is injected into a measurement tank or a channel provided with an ion selective electrode corresponding to a specific ion and a comparison electrode, and compared with an ion selective electrode in contact with the solution. An automatic analyzer of the type that detects the electromotive force that appears between the electrodes and calculates and measures the concentration of specific ions in the solution is most frequently used.
As an example of an analyzer using such a conventional ion-selective electrode, there are those disclosed in International Publications WO2011 / 034169 and JP2011-122823.

こうした従来の分析装置の主要部分である、イオン選択性電極の使用回数には限界があり、最終的には適切に測定が行えなくなる、すなわち、イオン選択性電極は部品としての寿命を有しており、一定期間又は一定使用回数ごとに交換を余儀なくされることから、前記国際公開ＷＯ２０１１／０３４１６９号公報（特許文献１）に示されるように、電極を含む装置所定範囲部分を電極カートリッジとして、容易に交換できる構成としたものが一般的である。 There is a limit to the number of times that the ion selective electrode, which is the main part of such a conventional analyzer, can be used, and eventually measurement cannot be performed properly. That is, the ion selective electrode has a life as a part. In addition, since replacement is unavoidable for a certain period or a certain number of times of use, as shown in the International Publication WO2011 / 034169 (Patent Document 1), an apparatus predetermined range portion including electrodes can be easily used as an electrode cartridge. In general, a configuration that can be replaced with a new one.

このような従来の分析装置で実行されるイオン濃度の測定動作の一例を簡略に説明する。なお、分析装置は、イオン濃度の測定が可能な状態では、通常、一つの測定対象溶液について、複数の特定イオン、例えば、ナトリウムイオン、カリウムイオン、塩素イオンのイオン濃度を同時に測定する。 An example of the ion concentration measurement operation executed by such a conventional analyzer will be briefly described. Note that, in a state where the ion concentration can be measured, the analyzer normally measures the ion concentrations of a plurality of specific ions, for example, sodium ions, potassium ions, and chlorine ions, simultaneously for one solution to be measured.

一連の測定動作としては、まず、プローブが、希釈液の収容位置まで回転駆動され、所定量の希釈液を吸引する。続いて、プローブは、測定対象溶液の収容位置まで回転駆動され、所定量の測定対象溶液を吸引する。 As a series of measurement operations, first, the probe is rotationally driven to the diluent storage position to suck a predetermined amount of diluent. Subsequently, the probe is rotationally driven to the measurement target solution storage position and sucks a predetermined amount of the measurement target solution.

さらに、プローブは、電極カートリッジの設置位置まで回転駆動され、あらかじめ残留液等がない状態とされた電極カートリッジの測定槽内に、プローブから測定対象溶液と希釈液が吐出される。この時、プローブによって測定対象溶液と希釈液との混合溶液の攪拌動作が実行される。 Further, the probe is rotationally driven to the installation position of the electrode cartridge, and the measurement target solution and the diluted solution are discharged from the probe into the measurement tank of the electrode cartridge in which no residual liquid or the like is previously present. At this time, the stirring operation of the mixed solution of the measurement target solution and the diluted solution is executed by the probe.

この後、プローブが洗浄位置まで移動し、プローブが精製水により洗浄されるのと並行して、電極カートリッジの混合溶液に含まれるイオン濃度の測定が開始される。イオン濃度の測定は、各々のイオン選択性電極について実行され、例えば、ナトリウムイオン、カリウムイオン、塩素イオンのそれぞれ対応するイオン選択性電極と比較電極との間に出現する起電力を測定する。
測定終了後、電極カートリッジの混合溶液はプローブに吸引され、廃棄される。廃棄後、プローブは新たに洗浄位置まで移動し、前記同様に精製水により洗浄される。 After that, the probe moves to the cleaning position, and in parallel with the probe being cleaned with purified water, measurement of the ion concentration contained in the mixed solution of the electrode cartridge is started. The ion concentration is measured for each ion selective electrode, and for example, an electromotive force appearing between the ion selective electrode corresponding to sodium ion, potassium ion, and chlorine ion and the reference electrode is measured.
After completion of the measurement, the mixed solution of the electrode cartridge is sucked into the probe and discarded. After discarding, the probe is newly moved to the washing position and washed with purified water as described above.

次に、プローブは基準液の収容位置まで回転駆動され、所定量の基準液を吸引する。さらに、プローブは、イオン選択性電極カートリッジの設置位置まで回転駆動され、電極カートリッジの測定槽にプローブから基準液の一部が吐出され、測定槽のすすぎ洗いに使用される。そして、測定槽内の基準液が排出孔を通じて排出された後、プローブに残る基準液が測定槽内に吐出され、同時にプローブによって基準液の攪拌動作が行われる。 Next, the probe is rotationally driven to the reference liquid accommodation position and sucks a predetermined amount of the reference liquid. Further, the probe is rotated to the position where the ion selective electrode cartridge is installed, and a part of the reference solution is discharged from the probe to the measurement tank of the electrode cartridge, and used for rinsing the measurement tank. Then, after the reference liquid in the measurement tank is discharged through the discharge hole, the reference liquid remaining in the probe is discharged into the measurement tank, and at the same time, the reference liquid is stirred by the probe.

この攪拌動作終了から所定時間後、基準液についてのイオン濃度の測定が、各々のイオン選択性電極について実行され、例えば、ナトリウムイオン、カリウムイオン、塩素イオンのそれぞれ対応するイオン選択性電極と比較電極との間に出現する起電力を測定する。この測定の後、分析装置は、測定対象溶液中の特定イオンの濃度値を算出し、被検査対象溶液に対する特定イオンの測定動作が完了となる。 After a predetermined time from the end of the stirring operation, the measurement of the ion concentration for the reference solution is performed for each ion selective electrode. For example, the ion selective electrode and the reference electrode corresponding to sodium ion, potassium ion, and chlorine ion, respectively. The electromotive force appearing between and is measured. After this measurement, the analyzer calculates the concentration value of the specific ion in the measurement target solution, and the measurement operation of the specific ion for the solution to be inspected is completed.

国際公開ＷＯ２０１１／０３４１６９号公報International Publication WO2011 / 034169 特開２０１１−１２２８２３号公報JP 2011-122823 A

従来の分析装置は前記各特許文献に示される構成となっており、このうち、前記特許文献１に示されるような、交換可能な分析装置の電極カートリッジにおいては、イオン選択性電極の高分子からなる電極膜が、測定対象溶液が注入される測定槽に面して、溶液中の特定イオンに反応可能な構造となっているが、この電極膜は、乾燥に弱いという問題を有している。 Conventional analyzers have configurations shown in the above-mentioned patent documents. Among them, in the electrode cartridge of the exchangeable analyzer as shown in the above-mentioned patent document 1, the polymer of the ion selective electrode is used. The electrode film that faces the measurement tank into which the solution to be measured is injected has a structure capable of reacting with specific ions in the solution, but this electrode film has a problem that it is vulnerable to drying. .

このイオン選択性電極が設けられた電極カートリッジについては、交換使用にあたり分析装置に取付ける以前の未使用状態では、合成樹脂材等のパッケージにより覆われて密封され、外部の空気から隔離された状態となっているので問題はなく、また、パッケージが開封された後、電極カートリッジが分析装置に装着された状態では、通常は測定槽に何らかの液分が入っており、測定槽に面する電極膜にはこうした液分が接した状態となっていることが多く、電極膜の乾燥を防ぐことができる状態にある。 The electrode cartridge provided with the ion-selective electrode is in a state in which it is covered and sealed with a package made of a synthetic resin material, etc., and is isolated from the outside air before being attached to the analyzer for replacement. In the state where the electrode cartridge is installed in the analyzer after the package is opened, there is usually some liquid in the measuring tank, and the electrode film facing the measuring tank In many cases, these liquid components are in contact with each other, and the electrode film can be prevented from drying.

ただし、電極カートリッジは、分析装置に装着して短時間使用した後、いったん分析装置本体から取外してしばらく保管した後、再度分析装置に装着して使用に供するような場合もあり得る。この電極カートリッジを分析装置から取外した場合、電極膜を覆うものが存在しなくなるために、電極膜が外部の空気に触れるおそれがあるなど、電極膜の乾燥からの保護を図ることが難しく、電極膜の乾燥による電極の劣化を招く危険性が高いという課題を有していた。 However, the electrode cartridge may be mounted on the analyzer and used for a short time, then removed from the analyzer main body and stored for a while, and then mounted on the analyzer again for use. When this electrode cartridge is removed from the analyzer, it is difficult to protect the electrode film from drying, such as there is a possibility that the electrode film may come into contact with the outside air because there is no thing covering the electrode film. There was a problem that the risk of electrode deterioration due to drying of the film was high.

本発明は前記課題を解消するためになされたもので、電極カートリッジを分析装置から外した状態でも、イオン選択性電極を適切に保護し、電極の劣化や損傷を抑えて、使用可能な状態を維持する電極保護体を提供することを目的とする。 The present invention has been made in order to solve the above-described problems. Even when the electrode cartridge is removed from the analyzer, the ion-selective electrode is appropriately protected, and deterioration and damage of the electrode are suppressed, so that the electrode can be used. It aims at providing the electrode protector which maintains.

本発明に係る電極保護体は、イオン選択性電極を用いた電解質の分析装置において、測定対象溶液が注入される測定槽にイオン選択性電極と比較電極とが露出状態とされる構造をなして、着脱可能に設けられる電極カートリッジに対し、当該電極カートリッジの測定槽に挿入可能な棒状のプラグ部と、当該プラグ部と一体に形成され、プラグ部を前記電極カートリッジの測定槽に挿入した状態で電極カートリッジの外側に位置する基体部と、前記プラグ部の先端部、及び当該先端部から所定寸法離れたプラグ部外周位置にそれぞれ取付固定される弾性変形可能な環状のシール体とを備え、前記プラグ部は、プラグ部先端が測定槽の最奥部に達する挿入状態で、外周面が測定槽内周面より内側に離隔して位置する太さとされると共に、プラグ部先端部のシール体を電極より下側に位置させ、且つ、プラグ部先端部から所定寸法離れたシール体を電極より上側に位置させ、前記シール体のうち、プラグ部先端部のものは、未変形状態で前記測定槽内周面より小さい外形で、且つ、プラグ部先端が測定槽の最奥部に達する挿入状態で、測定槽の最奥部の底面に弾性変形を伴いつつ全周で密着する配置とされ、前記シール体のうち、プラグ部先端部から所定寸法離れたものは、未変形状態で前記測定槽内周面より大きく、測定槽への挿入状態では弾性変形して測定槽内周面に全周で密着する外形とされるものである。 The electrode protector according to the present invention has a structure in which an ion selective electrode and a comparative electrode are exposed in a measurement tank into which a measurement target solution is injected in an electrolyte analyzer using the ion selective electrode. A rod-shaped plug portion that can be inserted into a measurement tank of the electrode cartridge with respect to the electrode cartridge that is detachably attached, and the plug portion is formed integrally with the plug portion, and the plug portion is inserted into the measurement tank of the electrode cartridge. A base portion located outside the electrode cartridge, a distal end portion of the plug portion, and an elastically deformable annular seal body that is attached and fixed to the outer peripheral position of the plug portion that is separated from the distal end portion by a predetermined dimension, The plug part has an insertion state in which the tip of the plug part reaches the innermost part of the measurement tank, and the outer peripheral surface has a thickness positioned to be separated from the inner peripheral surface of the measurement tank. The seal body at the end is positioned below the electrode, and the seal body that is a predetermined distance away from the tip of the plug is positioned above the electrode. Of the seal bodies, the plug at the tip of the plug is not yet In a deformed state, the outer diameter of the measuring tank is smaller than that of the inner peripheral surface of the measuring tank, and the plug part tip is inserted into the innermost part of the measuring tank. Among the sealing bodies, those that are separated from the plug portion tip by a predetermined dimension are larger than the inner circumferential surface of the measurement tank in an undeformed state, and are elastically deformed in the measurement tank when inserted into the measurement tank. The outer shape is in close contact with the entire circumference.

このように本発明によれば、電極カートリッジの測定槽をなす凹部に挿入可能なプラグ部を設け、測定槽にプラグ部を挿入して、測定槽の内周側に露出しているイオン選択性電極をなす電極膜に対し、プラグ部外周を接触させることなく、電極膜より上側の測定槽内周と電極膜より下側の測定槽底部にそれぞれ環状のシール体を密着させて、測定槽とプラグ部との間の空間を、二つのシール体に挟まれた電極膜存在部分とそれ以外とに区画し、電極膜をシール体に挟まれた空隙部分のみに接する状態とすることにより、電極膜を外部から隔離でき、電極膜が外部の空気に触れて乾燥状態に至ることが無く、電極カートリッジを分析装置から取外した状態においても、イオン選択性電極の機能を劣化させることなく使用可能な状態を維持でき、いったん使用した電極カートリッジの適切な保管が実現することとなる。 As described above, according to the present invention, the plug portion that can be inserted into the concave portion forming the measurement tank of the electrode cartridge is provided, and the plug portion is inserted into the measurement tank, and the ion selectivity exposed on the inner peripheral side of the measurement tank Without bringing the outer periphery of the plug portion into contact with the electrode film forming the electrode, the annular sealing body is brought into close contact with the inner circumference of the measurement tank above the electrode film and the bottom of the measurement tank below the electrode film. By partitioning the space between the plug part into an electrode film existing part sandwiched between two seal bodies and the other part, the electrode film is in contact with only the gap part sandwiched between the seal bodies, The membrane can be isolated from the outside, the electrode membrane does not come into contact with the outside air, and does not reach the dry state, and can be used without deteriorating the function of the ion selective electrode even when the electrode cartridge is removed from the analyzer Can maintain state, Proper storage of electrode cartridge that was used did Tsu is possible to realize.

また、本発明に係る電極保護体は必要に応じて、前記プラグ部に、プラグ部先端部のシール体よりさらに先端側に一方の開口部分を有して、プラグ部長手方向に貫通する孔が設けられるものである。 In addition, the electrode protector according to the present invention has a hole that penetrates in the longitudinal direction of the plug part, having one opening part on the distal end side further than the seal body of the plug part tip part, if necessary, in the plug part. It is provided.

このように本発明によれば、プラグ部に貫通孔が設けられ、プラグ部を電極カートリッジの測定槽に挿入する際、測定槽内の空気がプラグ部の先端側から孔を経て外部に流出して、測定槽内の圧力が過剰に高くなるのを抑制したり、また、プラグ部を測定槽から抜脱する際に、測定槽内に空気がプラグ部の孔を経て外部から流入して、測定槽内の圧力が過剰に低くなるのを抑制したりすることにより、プラグ部の測定槽への挿入時に、誤って電極膜に測定槽側から圧力が加わって電極膜の破損に繋がる事態や、プラグ部の孔からの抜脱時に、測定槽の圧力が下がった分、電極膜に外側から相対的に高い圧力が加わって電極膜の破損に繋がる事態をそれぞれ避けることができ、電極カートリッジに対するプラグ部の挿脱に関わりなく、電極膜の状態を安定的に維持できる。 As described above, according to the present invention, the through hole is provided in the plug portion, and when the plug portion is inserted into the measurement tank of the electrode cartridge, the air in the measurement tank flows out from the tip side of the plug section to the outside through the hole. In order to prevent the pressure in the measurement tank from becoming excessively high, or when the plug part is removed from the measurement tank, air flows into the measurement tank from the outside through the hole in the plug part, By suppressing the pressure in the measurement tank from becoming excessively low, when the plug part is inserted into the measurement tank, pressure may be applied to the electrode film from the measurement tank side, leading to damage to the electrode film. When the plug is removed from the hole of the plug part, the situation where the pressure of the measuring tank is reduced and the electrode film is relatively high from the outside and the electrode film is damaged can be avoided. Regardless of whether the plug is inserted or removed, State can be maintained stably.

また、本発明に係る電極保護体は必要に応じて、前記基体部が、前記電極カートリッジの外周に重なる略筒状部分を有すると共に、当該略筒状部分の先端部の少なくとも一部が、電極カートリッジにおける電極外側の接続端子位置を越えて延長形成されるものである。 Further, in the electrode protector according to the present invention, if necessary, the base portion has a substantially cylindrical portion that overlaps the outer periphery of the electrode cartridge, and at least a part of a tip portion of the substantially cylindrical portion is an electrode. The cartridge extends beyond the connection terminal position outside the electrode in the cartridge.

このように本発明によれば、基体部をその先端が電極カートリッジの電極位置に達する長さとして形成し、電極カートリッジへの保護体装着状態で、電極カートリッジの外周部分に露出する電極の接続端子を、基体部先端部で覆うことにより、電極カートリッジ外周の接続端子が基体部先端部で保護され、電極カートリッジの分析装置からの取外し状態で、接続端子が他の物体と接触して破損したり、他の物体に傷を付けたりすることを確実に防止できる。 As described above, according to the present invention, the base portion is formed with such a length that the tip reaches the electrode position of the electrode cartridge, and the electrode connection terminal exposed to the outer peripheral portion of the electrode cartridge when the protective body is mounted on the electrode cartridge. The connection terminal on the outer periphery of the electrode cartridge is protected by the front end of the base unit, and the connection terminal may be damaged by contact with other objects when the electrode cartridge is detached from the analyzer. It is possible to reliably prevent other objects from being scratched.

また、本発明に係る電極保護体は必要に応じて、前記基体部が、外周面を略円筒面状に形成される電極カートリッジに対応させて、前記略筒状部分を円筒状とされ、前記基体部に、略筒状部分の内径と電極カートリッジの外径の差より大きい突出量で略筒状部分の内周から突出する凸状部として形成され、電極カートリッジの外周端部に穿設される溝又は切欠きに挿入可能とされるガイドが設けられるものである。 Further, in the electrode protector according to the present invention, if necessary, the base portion has an approximately cylindrical portion corresponding to an electrode cartridge having an outer peripheral surface formed in a substantially cylindrical surface, The base portion is formed as a convex portion projecting from the inner periphery of the substantially cylindrical portion with a projecting amount larger than the difference between the inner diameter of the approximately cylindrical portion and the outer diameter of the electrode cartridge, and is formed at the outer peripheral end of the electrode cartridge. A guide that can be inserted into a groove or a notch is provided.

このように本発明によれば、基体部に、電極カートリッジ側の溝又は切欠きに係合する凸状の位置決め用ガイドが設けられて、基体部のガイドの位置を電極カートリッジの溝又は切欠きに合わせてはじめて、プラグ部及び基体部を電極カートリッジへの装着状態にできることにより、基体部を常に一定の向きで電極カートリッジ外周に位置させられることとなり、例えばプラグ部の測定槽への挿入に合わせて基体部の下端部所定箇所を確実に電極の接続端子外側に位置させることができ、プラグ部の挿入後に基体部を回転させて位置合せを行う必要が無く、そうした作業の際に接続端子に誤って手が触れる事態を避けられる他、プラグ部のシール体に周方向の摩擦を生じさせず、シール体に負担を与えずに済むこととなる。 As described above, according to the present invention, the base portion is provided with the convex positioning guide that engages with the groove or notch on the electrode cartridge side, and the position of the guide on the base portion is changed to the groove or notch of the electrode cartridge. Only when the plug portion and the base portion can be attached to the electrode cartridge, the base portion can always be positioned on the outer periphery of the electrode cartridge in a fixed orientation. For example, when the plug portion is inserted into the measurement tank, The lower end of the base part can be reliably positioned outside the connection terminal of the electrode, and there is no need to rotate and align the base part after inserting the plug part. In addition to avoiding accidental touching of the hand, circumferential friction is not generated in the sealing body of the plug portion, and a burden is not applied to the sealing body.

また、本発明に係る電極保護体は必要に応じて、前記基体部が、外周面を略円筒面状に形成される電極カートリッジに対応させて、前記略筒状部分を円筒状とされ、前記基体部に、略筒状部分の内径と電極カートリッジの外径の差より大きい突出量で電極カートリッジの外周面から突出する凸部を挿入可能な、プラグ部長手方向と平行に連続する溝又は切欠きが穿設されるものである。 Further, in the electrode protector according to the present invention, if necessary, the base portion has an approximately cylindrical portion corresponding to an electrode cartridge having an outer peripheral surface formed in a substantially cylindrical surface, A groove or cut continuous in parallel with the plug portion longitudinal direction, in which a protrusion protruding from the outer peripheral surface of the electrode cartridge with a protruding amount larger than the difference between the inner diameter of the substantially cylindrical portion and the outer diameter of the electrode cartridge can be inserted into the base portion. The notch is drilled.

このように本発明によれば、基体部に、電極カートリッジ側の凸部を係合させる位置決め用の溝又は切欠きが設けられて、基体部の溝又は切欠きの位置を電極カートリッジの凸部に合わせてはじめて、プラグ部及び基体部を電極カートリッジへの装着状態にできることにより、基体部を常に一定の向きで電極カートリッジ外周に位置させられることとなり、例えばプラグ部の測定槽への挿入に合わせて基体部の下端部所定箇所を確実に電極部の接続端子外側に位置させることができ、プラグ部の挿入後に基体部を回転させて位置合せを行う必要が無く、そうした作業の際に接続端子に誤って手が触れる事態を避けられる他、プラグ部のシール体に周方向の摩擦を生じさせず、シール体に負担を与えずに済むこととなる。 As described above, according to the present invention, the base portion is provided with a positioning groove or notch for engaging the convex portion on the electrode cartridge side, and the position of the groove or notch in the base portion is determined by the convex portion of the electrode cartridge. Only when the plug portion and the base portion can be attached to the electrode cartridge, the base portion can always be positioned on the outer periphery of the electrode cartridge in a fixed orientation. For example, when the plug portion is inserted into the measurement tank, Therefore, the lower end of the base part can be surely positioned outside the connection terminal of the electrode part, and there is no need to rotate the base part after the plug part is inserted, and the connection terminal can be used during such work. In addition to avoiding a situation where the hand is accidentally touched, there is no friction in the circumferential direction on the seal body of the plug portion and no burden is imposed on the seal body.

本発明の一実施形態に係る電極保護体の上方からの斜視図及び下方からの斜視図である。It is the perspective view from the upper part of the electrode protector which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention, and the perspective view from the downward direction. 本発明の一実施形態に係る電極保護体の平面図及び正面図である。It is the top view and front view of the electrode protector which concern on one Embodiment of this invention. 本発明の一実施形態に係る電極保護体の底面図及び図２のＡ−Ａ断面図である。It is a bottom view of the electrode protector which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention, and AA sectional drawing of FIG. 本発明の一実施形態に係る電極保護体を適用する電極カートリッジの平面図及び正面図である。It is the top view and front view of an electrode cartridge which apply the electrode protector which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. 図４のＢ−Ｂ断面図及びＣ−Ｃ断面図である。It is BB sectional drawing and CC sectional drawing of FIG. 本発明の一実施形態に係る電極保護体の電極カートリッジへの装着直前状態説明図である。It is state explanatory drawing just before mounting to the electrode cartridge of the electrode protector which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. 本発明の一実施形態に係る電極保護体の電極カートリッジへの装着状態説明図である。It is a mounting state explanatory view to the electrode cartridge of the electrode protector concerning one embodiment of the present invention. 本発明の一実施形態に係る電極保護体の電極カートリッジへの装着状態拡大断面図である。It is an expanded sectional view of the mounting state to the electrode cartridge of the electrode protector which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. 本発明の他の実施形態に係る電極保護体の、三つの電極を有する電極カートリッジへの対応構造説明図、及び二つの電極を有する電極カートリッジへの対応構造説明図である。It is a corresponding structure explanatory drawing to the electrode cartridge which has three electrodes of the electrode protector which concerns on other embodiment of this invention, and a corresponding structure explanatory drawing to the electrode cartridge which has two electrodes. 本発明の他の実施形態に係る電極保護体の電極カートリッジへの装着状態拡大断面図である。It is an expanded sectional view of the mounting state to the electrode cartridge of the electrode protector which concerns on other embodiment of this invention.

以下、本発明の一実施形態に係る電極保護体を前記図１ないし図８に基づいて説明する。
前記各図において本実施形態に係る電極保護体１は、電極カートリッジ５０の中央の測定槽５１に挿入可能な大きさの棒状のプラグ部１１と、このプラグ部１１と一体に形成され、プラグ部１１を外側から取囲む配置とされる基体部１２と、プラグ部１１の先端部、及びこの先端部から所定寸法離れた位置にそれぞれ固定される弾性変形可能な前記シール体としてのＯリング１３、１４とを備える構成である。 Hereinafter, an electrode protector according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.
In each of the drawings, the electrode protector 1 according to the present embodiment is formed integrally with the plug portion 11 and a rod-shaped plug portion 11 having a size that can be inserted into the measurement tank 51 at the center of the electrode cartridge 50. A base portion 12 arranged so as to surround 11 from the outside, a distal end portion of the plug portion 11, and an O-ring 13 as the elastically deformable seal body fixed at a position away from the distal end portion by a predetermined dimension, 14.

本実施形態の電極保護体１の装着対象となる電極カートリッジ５０は、図４及び図５に示すように、測定対象溶液等を注入するための測定槽５１と、この測定槽５１内に電極膜５２ａが面する配置で測定槽５１の周囲に設けられる比較電極５２と、同じく測定槽５１内に電極膜５３ａ、５４ａ、５５ａが面する配置とされ、特定イオンの濃度の測定に使用する複数のイオン選択性電極５３、５４、５５とを有し、分析装置の電極カートリッジ収容部に常に特定の位置関係として着脱自在に収容されて、分析装置で上下方向又は回転方向に駆動されるプローブにより測定槽５１に液体を吐出され、又は測定槽５１から液体を吸引される仕組みとなっている。 As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the electrode cartridge 50 to which the electrode protector 1 of this embodiment is attached includes a measurement tank 51 for injecting a measurement target solution and the like, and an electrode film in the measurement tank 51. The reference electrode 52 provided around the measurement tank 51 in the arrangement facing the 52a and the arrangement in which the electrode films 53a, 54a, 55a face the same in the measurement tank 51, and are used for measuring the concentration of specific ions. Measured by a probe having ion selective electrodes 53, 54, and 55, which is detachably accommodated in an electrode cartridge housing portion of the analyzer as a specific positional relationship, and is driven vertically or rotationally by the analyzer. The liquid is discharged into the tank 51 or the liquid is sucked from the measurement tank 51.

この電極カートリッジ５０における、測定対象溶液等の液体が注入される測定槽５１は、円断面形状の凹部として形成され、略円筒形状のカートリッジ筐体の中心軸に沿うように配置される構成である。測定槽５１の最奥部（底部）はすり鉢状に傾斜した底面５１ａとして形成されると共に、残留液等を強制的に排出可能とする排出孔５１ｂを中央に穿設される構成である。 In this electrode cartridge 50, a measurement tank 51 into which a liquid such as a solution to be measured is injected is formed as a concave portion having a circular cross section, and is arranged along the central axis of a substantially cylindrical cartridge housing. . The innermost part (bottom part) of the measurement tank 51 is formed as a bottom surface 51a inclined in a mortar shape, and has a structure in which a discharge hole 51b that allows a residual liquid or the like to be forcibly discharged is formed in the center.

なお、電極カートリッジ５０下端部における排出孔５１ｂの下側開口周縁部には、横向きに開口する切欠き部５１ｃが設けられており、仮に、排出孔５１ｂの下側開口に下から例えば指などが押付けられた状態となっても、容易に塞がれることのない切欠き部５１ｃに基づく空隙が空気の流通路となって、排出孔５１ｂが閉塞されるのを防ぎ、排出孔５１ｂへ空気が出入り可能な状態を維持することができる。 In addition, a cutout portion 51c that opens sideways is provided at the lower peripheral edge of the discharge hole 51b at the lower end of the electrode cartridge 50. For example, a finger or the like may be placed on the lower opening of the discharge hole 51b from below. Even if it is pressed, a gap based on the notch 51c that is not easily blocked serves as an air flow path to prevent the discharge hole 51b from being blocked, and air is discharged to the discharge hole 51b. The state where it can go in and out can be maintained.

前記プラグ部１１は、棒状体、詳細には、分析装置から取外した状態の電極カートリッジ５０における測定槽５１への挿入状態で、測定槽５１の円筒面状の内周面より内側に外周面が位置する太さの略円柱状体とされる構成である。このプラグ部１１には、プラグ部最先端部分に一方の開口部分を有して、プラグ部長手方向に貫通する空気流通用の貫通孔１１ａが穿設される構成である。 The plug portion 11 is a rod-shaped body, specifically, an electrode cartridge 50 in a state of being removed from the analyzer, and is inserted into the measurement tank 51, and has an outer peripheral surface on the inner side of the cylindrical inner peripheral surface of the measurement tank 51. It is the structure made into the substantially cylindrical body of the thickness located. This plug portion 11 has a configuration in which one opening portion is provided at the most distal end portion of the plug portion, and a through hole 11a for air circulation penetrating in the longitudinal direction of the plug portion is formed.

また、プラグ部１１の先端部、及びこの先端部から所定寸法上側に離れた位置には、それぞれ前記シール体としてのＯリング１３、１４が固定状態で配設される。
前記基体部１２は、プラグ部１１一端部と連結一体化される略円板状部分と、この略円板状部分の周縁部からプラグ部１１と同じ向きに突出し、プラグ部１１と所定間隔をなしてこれを取囲む略円筒状部分とを有してなる構成である。 In addition, O-rings 13 and 14 as the sealing bodies are disposed in a fixed state at the distal end portion of the plug portion 11 and at positions away from the distal end portion by a predetermined dimension.
The base portion 12 protrudes in the same direction as the plug portion 11 from the substantially disc-shaped portion that is connected and integrated with one end portion of the plug portion 11, and has a predetermined interval from the plug portion 11. Thus, it has a substantially cylindrical portion surrounding this.

この基体部１２の略円板状部分中央部には、前記貫通孔１１ａの他方の開口部分が位置すると共に、その周囲に、複数の突起部１２ｆが所定間隔で形成されている。仮に、貫通孔開口部分の上側から例えば指などが押付けられた状態となっても、容易に塞がれることのない各突起部１２ｆ間の空隙が空気の流通路となって、貫通孔１１ａが閉塞されるのを防ぎ、貫通孔１１ａへ空気が出入り可能な状態を維持することができる。 The other opening portion of the through hole 11a is located at the central portion of the substantially disc-shaped portion of the base portion 12, and a plurality of protrusions 12f are formed at predetermined intervals around the other opening portion. Even if, for example, a finger or the like is pressed from the upper side of the through-hole opening portion, the gap between the projecting portions 12f that is not easily blocked becomes an air flow path, and the through-hole 11a is formed. It is possible to prevent obstruction and maintain a state in which air can enter and exit the through hole 11a.

この突起部１２ｆと、前記電極カートリッジ５０の切欠き部５１ｃとが設けられることで、電極保護体１のプラグ部１１を電極カートリッジ５０の測定槽５１に対し挿入するために、仮に基体部１２の貫通孔開口部分と電極カートリッジ５０の排出孔５１ｂの下側開口部分とにそれぞれ指を押当てて、電極保護体１と電極カートリッジ５０とを指で挟んで押付けるようにした場合でも、貫通孔１１ａや排出孔５１ｂが指で塞がれることはなく、測定槽５１内の空気が貫通孔１１ａや排出孔５１ｂを通じて流出可能であり、測定槽５１内の圧力変化で電極膜５２ａ、５３ａ、５４ａ、５５ａに影響が及ぶ事態を回避できる。 By providing the protrusion 12f and the cutout portion 51c of the electrode cartridge 50, the base portion 12 is temporarily installed in order to insert the plug portion 11 of the electrode protector 1 into the measurement tank 51 of the electrode cartridge 50. Even when the finger is pressed against the opening portion of the through hole and the lower opening portion of the discharge hole 51b of the electrode cartridge 50, and the electrode protector 1 and the electrode cartridge 50 are sandwiched between the fingers, 11a and the discharge hole 51b are not blocked by the finger, and the air in the measurement tank 51 can flow out through the through hole 11a and the discharge hole 51b, and the electrode films 52a, 53a, and 54a are changed by the pressure change in the measurement tank 51. , 55a can be avoided.

基体部１２の略円筒状部分は、略円筒面状に形成される電極カートリッジ５０の外周面に対応したものであり、プラグ部１１が電極カートリッジ５０の測定槽５１に挿入される状態で、同時に電極カートリッジ５０の外周面に沿った状態となって、電極カートリッジ５０の外周面に一部接触しつつ、プラグ部１１の挿脱においてプラグ部１１を電極カートリッジ５０の中央（測定槽５１）に無理なく位置させる役割を果す。 The substantially cylindrical portion of the base portion 12 corresponds to the outer peripheral surface of the electrode cartridge 50 formed in a substantially cylindrical surface shape, and at the same time the plug portion 11 is inserted into the measurement tank 51 of the electrode cartridge 50. In the state along the outer peripheral surface of the electrode cartridge 50 and partially contacting the outer peripheral surface of the electrode cartridge 50, the plug portion 11 cannot be moved to the center of the electrode cartridge 50 (measurement tank 51) when the plug portion 11 is inserted or removed. It plays the role of positioning without.

また、基体部１２は、その略円筒状部分の突出長さを、電極カートリッジ５０の外側への装着状態で電極位置近傍に達する所定長さとして突出形成され、さらに一部が先端部１２ａとして各電極５２、５３、５４、５５の外側の接続端子５２ｂ、５３ｂ、５４ｂ、５５ｂ位置を越える長さに突出形成されて、この基体部１２の四つの先端部１２ａで、各接続端子５２ｂ、５３ｂ、５４ｂ、５５ｂの周囲を覆って保護する仕組みである。 In addition, the base portion 12 is formed so that the protruding length of the substantially cylindrical portion is a predetermined length that reaches the vicinity of the electrode position when mounted on the outer side of the electrode cartridge 50, and a part of each of the base portion 12 serves as a tip portion 12a. The connection terminals 52b, 53b, 54b and 55b outside the electrodes 52, 53, 54 and 55 are formed so as to protrude beyond the position, and at the four end portions 12a of the base body portion 12, the connection terminals 52b, 53b, It is a mechanism that covers and protects the periphery of 54b and 55b.

この基体部１２の内周側には、電極カートリッジ５０との位置決め用のガイド１２ｂとなる凸部が設けられ、このガイド１２ｂが電極カートリッジ５０側に設けられた切欠き５６に嵌合する場合のみ、プラグ部１１及び基体部１２を電極カートリッジ５０に装着可能となる。 On the inner peripheral side of the base body portion 12, a convex portion serving as a guide 12 b for positioning with the electrode cartridge 50 is provided, and only when this guide 12 b is fitted into a notch 56 provided on the electrode cartridge 50 side. The plug part 11 and the base part 12 can be attached to the electrode cartridge 50.

さらに、基体部１２の内周側には、電極カートリッジ５０との位置決め用の溝部１２ｃがプラグ長手方向と平行に連続させて穿設され、この溝部１２ｃが電極カートリッジ５０外周に設けられた凸部５７と係合する場合のみ、プラグ部１１及び基体部１２を電極カートリッジ５０に装着可能となる。こうしてガイド１２ｂと溝部１２ｃを用いることで、基体部１２の電極カートリッジ５０への装着位置関係を常に一通りのみとり得るように制限できる仕組みである。 Further, a groove portion 12c for positioning with the electrode cartridge 50 is continuously drilled in parallel with the longitudinal direction of the plug on the inner peripheral side of the base portion 12, and the groove portion 12c is a convex portion provided on the outer periphery of the electrode cartridge 50. The plug part 11 and the base part 12 can be attached to the electrode cartridge 50 only when engaged with the electrode cartridge 57. By using the guide 12b and the groove portion 12c in this way, it is a mechanism that can restrict the mounting position relationship of the base portion 12 to the electrode cartridge 50 so that only one way can be always taken.

加えて、基体部１２のプラグ部１１と連結一体化される略円板状部分の周縁部には、略円筒状部分とは別に、略円筒状部分と同じ向き及び逆向きにそれぞれ突出して形成されるつまみ部１２ｄが二つ配設されている。基体部１２の電極カートリッジ５０への装着状態では、このつまみ部１２ｄ先端の爪部１２ｅが電極カートリッジ５０の端部に設けられた段差部分に係合することで、プラグ部１１及び基体部１２が電極カートリッジ５０に対し容易に外れない状態とする仕組みである。一方、これら二つのつまみ部１２ｄを指で強く摘むことで、つまみ部１２ｄ先端の爪部１２ｅが電極カートリッジ５０の端部に設けられた段差部分から外れて、プラグ部１１及び基体部１２の電極カートリッジ５０からの離脱が許容されることとなる。 In addition, apart from the substantially cylindrical part, the peripheral part of the substantially disk-like part connected and integrated with the plug part 11 of the base part 12 is formed to protrude in the same direction and in the opposite direction to the substantially cylindrical part. Two knob portions 12d are provided. When the base portion 12 is mounted on the electrode cartridge 50, the claw portion 12 e at the tip of the knob portion 12 d is engaged with the step portion provided at the end portion of the electrode cartridge 50, so that the plug portion 11 and the base portion 12 are connected. In this mechanism, the electrode cartridge 50 is not easily detached. On the other hand, by strongly picking these two knob portions 12d with a finger, the claw portion 12e at the tip of the knob portion 12d is detached from the stepped portion provided at the end portion of the electrode cartridge 50, and the electrodes of the plug portion 11 and the base portion 12 are provided. The detachment from the cartridge 50 is allowed.

前記Ｏリング１３、１４は、弾性変形する可撓材製の円環状体として形成され、プラグ部１１の二箇所にそれぞれずれないように固定配設される構成である。
これらＯリングのうち、プラグ部１１先端部のＯリング１３は、測定槽５１内周面より小さく、電極膜５２ａ、５３ａ、５４ａ、５５ａに接触しない大きさとされる一方、プラグ部１１先端が測定槽５１の最奥部に達する挿入状態で、測定槽５１の最奥部のすり鉢状に傾斜した底面５１ａに弾性変形を伴いつつ、全周で密着可能となる構成である。このＯリング１３を装着されるプラグ部１１先端には、Ｏリング１３が外れるのを防止するための拡径部１１ｂが形成される。 The O-rings 13 and 14 are formed as an annular body made of a flexible material that is elastically deformed, and are fixedly disposed so as not to be displaced at two locations of the plug portion 11.
Among these O-rings, the O-ring 13 at the tip of the plug 11 is smaller than the inner peripheral surface of the measurement tank 51 and is sized so as not to contact the electrode films 52a, 53a, 54a, 55a, while the tip of the plug 11 is measured. In the insertion state reaching the innermost part of the tank 51, the bottom surface 51 a inclined in a mortar shape at the innermost part of the measurement tank 51 can be closely attached to the entire circumference while being accompanied by elastic deformation. A diameter-expanded portion 11b for preventing the O-ring 13 from coming off is formed at the tip of the plug portion 11 to which the O-ring 13 is attached.

前記Ｏリングのうち、プラグ部１１先端部から所定寸法離れた上側位置のＯリング１４は、プラグ部１１の測定槽５１への挿入前状態で測定槽５１内周面より大きい外径とされ、挿入状態では弾性変形して測定槽５１内周面に全周で密着可能となる構成である。 Among the O-rings, the O-ring 14 at the upper position away from the tip of the plug part 11 by a predetermined dimension has an outer diameter larger than the inner peripheral surface of the measurement tank 51 in a state before the plug part 11 is inserted into the measurement tank 51. In the inserted state, it is elastically deformed and can be brought into close contact with the inner peripheral surface of the measurement tank 51 on the entire circumference.

次に、本実施形態に係る電極保護体のカートリッジへの装着状態について説明する。まず、使用者が電極保護体１のプラグ部１１を電極カートリッジ５０の測定槽５１に向けると共に、基体部１２のガイド１２ｂを電極カートリッジ５０の切欠き５６に、基体部１２の溝部１２ｃを電極カートリッジ５０の凸部５７にそれぞれ合わせて、電極保護体１を電極カートリッジ５０に押付けると、基体部１２のガイドが電極カートリッジ５０の切欠き５６に係合し、また、基体部１２の溝部１２ｃが電極カートリッジ５０の凸部５７を挿入された状態になるのと並行して、プラグ部１１が測定槽５１に挿入されると共に、基体部１２が電極カートリッジ５０の外周面に沿って進んで重なる領域を増大させていく。 Next, the mounting state of the electrode protector according to the present embodiment on the cartridge will be described. First, the user directs the plug portion 11 of the electrode protector 1 toward the measurement tank 51 of the electrode cartridge 50, the guide 12b of the base portion 12 into the notch 56 of the electrode cartridge 50, and the groove portion 12c of the base portion 12 as the electrode cartridge. When the electrode protector 1 is pressed against the electrode cartridge 50 in accordance with the convex portions 57 of the 50, the guide of the base portion 12 is engaged with the notch 56 of the electrode cartridge 50, and the groove portion 12c of the base portion 12 is In parallel with the state in which the convex portion 57 of the electrode cartridge 50 is inserted, the plug portion 11 is inserted into the measurement tank 51 and the base portion 12 advances along the outer peripheral surface of the electrode cartridge 50 and overlaps. Will increase.

なお、基体部１２のガイド１２ｂが電極カートリッジ５０の切欠き５６からずれ、また、基体部１２の溝部１２ｃも電極カートリッジ５０の凸部５７から離れている状態では、電極保護体１を電極カートリッジ５０に押付けても、基体部１２のガイド１２ｂが電極カートリッジ５０の端部に接触し、且つ、電極カートリッジ５０の凸部５７が基体部１２の端部に接触して、電極保護体１の電極カートリッジ５０側への進行を阻止することから、電極保護体１を電極カートリッジ５０に対し装着状態とすることはできない。 In the state where the guide 12 b of the base portion 12 is displaced from the notch 56 of the electrode cartridge 50 and the groove portion 12 c of the base portion 12 is also away from the convex portion 57 of the electrode cartridge 50, the electrode protector 1 is attached to the electrode cartridge 50. Even if pressed, the guide 12b of the base 12 contacts the end of the electrode cartridge 50, and the convex portion 57 of the electrode cartridge 50 contacts the end of the base 12, so that the electrode cartridge of the electrode protector 1 is used. The electrode protector 1 cannot be attached to the electrode cartridge 50 because the movement toward the side 50 is prevented.

プラグ部１１が測定槽５１に挿入される状態では、プラグ部１１先端部から所定寸法離れた上側位置のＯリング１４が、プラグ部１１の測定槽５１への挿入に伴って、周囲の測定槽内周面から相対的に圧縮力を受ける形となって弾性変形して、測定槽内周面に全周で密着した状態で測定槽内を進むこととなる。一方、プラグ部１１外周面やその先端部のＯリング１３は、測定槽５１内周面より小さく、電極膜５２ａ、５３ａ、５４ａ、５５ａに接触しない外径寸法とされていることに加え、基体部１２と電極カートリッジ５０の外周部との接触で、プラグ部１１は測定槽５１に対しほとんど傾かない状態に維持されることから、プラグ部１１外周面やＯリング１３は測定槽内周面と接触することなく測定槽５１内を進行する。
このため、測定槽５１の内周側に露出している電極の電極膜５２ａ、５３ａ、５４ａ、５５ａに対し、Ｏリング１３を含むプラグ部１１各部が接触することはない。 In a state in which the plug portion 11 is inserted into the measurement tank 51, the O-ring 14 at the upper position that is a predetermined distance away from the tip end portion of the plug section 11 is inserted into the measurement tank 51 in the surrounding measurement tank. It is elastically deformed in the form of receiving a compressive force relatively from the inner peripheral surface, and proceeds in the measurement tank in a state of being in close contact with the inner peripheral surface of the measurement tank. On the other hand, the outer peripheral surface of the plug portion 11 and the O-ring 13 at the tip thereof are smaller than the inner peripheral surface of the measurement tank 51 and have an outer diameter that does not contact the electrode films 52a, 53a, 54a, 55a. Since the plug part 11 is maintained in a state of being hardly inclined with respect to the measurement tank 51 by the contact between the part 12 and the outer peripheral part of the electrode cartridge 50, the outer peripheral surface of the plug part 11 and the O-ring 13 are connected to the inner peripheral surface of the measurement tank. It proceeds in the measuring tank 51 without contact.
For this reason, each part of the plug part 11 including the O-ring 13 does not come into contact with the electrode films 52a, 53a, 54a, 55a of the electrodes exposed on the inner peripheral side of the measurement tank 51.

プラグ部１１を測定槽５１に挿入する過程で、上側位置のＯリング１４が、測定槽内周面に全周で密着した状態で測定槽５１を進行することで、測定槽５１内の空気は測定槽５１の底面側へ寄せられて押し縮められる状態となるが、プラグ部１１には貫通孔１１ａが設けられているため、測定槽５１内の空気はプラグ部１１の先端側から貫通孔１１ａを経て外部に流出することとなり、測定槽５１内の圧力が過剰に高くなるのを抑制することができ、電極膜５２ａ、５３ａ、５４ａ、５５ａに測定槽５１側から圧力が加わってこれら電極膜の破損に繋がる事態を避けられる。 In the process of inserting the plug portion 11 into the measurement tank 51, the O-ring 14 at the upper position advances through the measurement tank 51 in a state of being in close contact with the inner peripheral surface of the measurement tank, so that the air in the measurement tank 51 is Although the plug 11 is provided with a through hole 11a, the air in the measurement tank 51 passes through the through hole 11a from the distal end side of the plug 11. It is possible to suppress the pressure in the measurement tank 51 from becoming excessively high, and pressure is applied to the electrode films 52a, 53a, 54a, and 55a from the measurement tank 51 side. You can avoid the situation that leads to damage.

プラグ部１１先端が測定槽５１の最奥部に達すると、プラグ部１１先端部のＯリング１３は、測定槽５１の最奥部のすり鉢状に傾斜した底面５１ａに弾性変形を伴いつつ、全周で密着して、このＯリング１３より先の部分、例えば、プラグ部１１の貫通孔１１ａや測定槽底面中央の排出孔５１ｂなど、から空気がＯリング１３を越えて進入するのを防ぐこととなる。 When the tip of the plug part 11 reaches the innermost part of the measurement tank 51, the O-ring 13 at the tip part of the plug part 11 is fully deformed while elastically deforming the bottom face 51 a inclined in the shape of a mortar at the innermost part of the measurement tank 51. Closely contact with the periphery to prevent air from entering beyond the O-ring 13 from a portion ahead of the O-ring 13, such as the through-hole 11 a of the plug portion 11 or the discharge hole 51 b at the center of the measurement tank bottom. It becomes.

一方、プラグ部１１先端部から所定寸法離れた上側位置のＯリング１４は、プラグ部１１の挿入に際して、弾性変形して測定槽５１内周面に全周で密着する状態を維持しつつ、測定槽５１の電極膜露出箇所より上位置に達して、このＯリング１４より上側の部分から空気がＯリング１４を越えて進入するのを防ぐこととなる。 On the other hand, the O-ring 14 at the upper position that is a predetermined distance away from the tip of the plug part 11 is elastically deformed when the plug part 11 is inserted, and maintains a state in which the O-ring 14 is in close contact with the inner peripheral surface of the measurement tank 51 all around. It reaches the position above the electrode film exposed portion of the tank 51 and prevents air from entering beyond the O-ring 14 from the portion above the O-ring 14.

こうして、電極膜５２ａ、５３ａ、５４ａ、５５ａより下側の測定槽５１底面と電極膜５２ａ、５３ａ、５４ａ、５５ａより上側の測定槽５１内周にそれぞれ環状のＯリング１３、１４を密着させて、測定槽５１とプラグ部１１との間の空間を、二つのＯリング１３、１４に挟まれた電極膜存在部分とそれ以外とに区画し、電極膜５２ａ、５３ａ、５４ａ、５５ａをＯリング１３、１４に挟まれた空隙部分のみに接する状態とすることで、電極膜５２ａ、５３ａ、５４ａ、５５ａを外部から隔離でき、電極膜５２ａ、５３ａ、５４ａ、５５ａが外部の空気に触れて乾燥状態に至るのを防止できる。 Thus, the annular O-rings 13 and 14 are brought into close contact with the bottom surface of the measurement tank 51 below the electrode films 52a, 53a, 54a and 55a and the inner periphery of the measurement tank 51 above the electrode films 52a, 53a, 54a and 55a, respectively. The space between the measuring tank 51 and the plug portion 11 is partitioned into an electrode film existing portion sandwiched between the two O rings 13 and 14 and the other, and the electrode films 52a, 53a, 54a and 55a are O-rings. The electrode films 52a, 53a, 54a and 55a can be isolated from the outside by being in contact with only the gap between the electrodes 13 and 14, and the electrode films 52a, 53a, 54a and 55a are in contact with the outside air and dried. It can prevent reaching a state.

さらに、電極カートリッジ５０の外周側では、基体部１２の先端部１２ａが電極カートリッジ５０における電極５２の外側の接続端子５２ｂ、５３ｂ、５４ｂ、５５ｂ位置に達してこれを覆う状態となっており、先端部１２ａで接続端子５２ｂ、５３ｂ、５４ｂ、５５ｂを保護できる。 Further, on the outer peripheral side of the electrode cartridge 50, the tip end portion 12 a of the base portion 12 reaches the positions of the connection terminals 52 b, 53 b, 54 b, 55 b outside the electrode 52 in the electrode cartridge 50 and covers this. The connection terminals 52b, 53b, 54b, and 55b can be protected by the portion 12a.

このようにプラグ部１１先端が測定槽５１の最奥部に達し、基体部１２の先端部１２ａが接続端子５２ｂ、５３ｂ、５４ｂ、５５ｂ位置に達すると、つまみ部１２ｄの爪部１２ｅが電極カートリッジ５０の端部の段差部分に係合して、電極保護体１が電極カートリッジ５０から容易に外れないように固定された状態となる。こうして、電極保護体１は、イオン選択性電極の機能を劣化させることなく使用可能な状態を維持でき、電極カートリッジの保管が適切に行える。 Thus, when the tip of the plug part 11 reaches the innermost part of the measuring tank 51 and the tip part 12a of the base part 12 reaches the positions of the connection terminals 52b, 53b, 54b, 55b, the claw part 12e of the knob part 12d becomes the electrode cartridge. The electrode protector 1 is fixed so as not to be easily detached from the electrode cartridge 50 by engaging with the stepped portion at the end of 50. Thus, the electrode protector 1 can maintain a usable state without deteriorating the function of the ion selective electrode, and can appropriately store the electrode cartridge.

逆に、電極保護体１を電極カートリッジ５０に装着している状態から、電極保護体１を取外す場合は、両方のつまみ部１２ｄを指で強く摘むと、つまみ部１２ｄの爪部１２ｅが電極カートリッジ５０の端部の段差部分から外側に外れて、電極保護体１を電極カートリッジ５０に対し離隔させる向きに動かせる状態となる。そのままつまみ部１２ｄを摘んで電極保護体１を引くと、電極保護体１が電極カートリッジ５０に装着された状態から徐々に外れていく。基体部１２から突出するつまみ部１２ｄを摘むことで、電極保護体１全体の電極カートリッジ５０からの取外しが容易に行え、カートリッジ側へ余分な力が加わることもない。 On the other hand, when removing the electrode protector 1 from the state where the electrode protector 1 is mounted on the electrode cartridge 50, when both the knob portions 12d are strongly picked with fingers, the claw portions 12e of the knob portion 12d are moved to the electrode cartridge. The electrode protector 1 is moved outwardly from the stepped portion of the end portion 50 so as to be moved away from the electrode cartridge 50. If the electrode protector 1 is pulled by holding the knob portion 12d as it is, the electrode protector 1 is gradually removed from the state where it is mounted on the electrode cartridge 50. By grasping the knob portion 12d protruding from the base portion 12, the entire electrode protector 1 can be easily detached from the electrode cartridge 50, and no extra force is applied to the cartridge side.

この時、プラグ部１１も測定槽５１から抜ける状態となり、その過程で、上側位置のＯリング１４が、測定槽内周面に全周で密着した状態で測定槽５１を進行することで、測定槽５１内の空気が膨張させられて圧力を低下させる状態となるが、プラグ部１１の先端で開口する貫通孔１１ａを通じて、測定槽５１内に空気が外部から流入することができ、測定槽５１内の圧力が過剰に低くなるのを抑制できる。 At this time, the plug part 11 is also in a state of being removed from the measurement tank 51, and in the process, the O-ring 14 at the upper position advances through the measurement tank 51 in a state of being in close contact with the inner peripheral surface of the measurement tank. Although the air in the tank 51 is expanded and the pressure is lowered, the air can flow into the measurement tank 51 from the outside through the through hole 11 a opened at the tip of the plug portion 11. It can suppress that the inside pressure becomes too low.

これにより、プラグ部１１が測定槽５１から抜ける時に測定槽５１の圧力が下がるのに伴って、電極膜５２ａ、５３ａ、５４ａ、５５ａに外側から相対的に高い圧力が加わって電極膜５２ａ、５３ａ、５４ａ、５５ａの破損に繋がるような事態を避けることができる。電極保護体１を電極カートリッジ５０から完全に取外したら、電極カートリッジ５０を分析装置に再度取付けて使用に供することができる。 Accordingly, as the pressure of the measurement tank 51 decreases when the plug portion 11 is removed from the measurement tank 51, a relatively high pressure is applied to the electrode films 52a, 53a, 54a, and 55a from the outside, and the electrode films 52a and 53a. , 54a, 55a can be avoided. When the electrode protector 1 is completely removed from the electrode cartridge 50, the electrode cartridge 50 can be attached to the analyzer again for use.

このように、本実施形態に係る電極保護体は、電極カートリッジ５０の測定槽５１に挿入可能なプラグ部１１を設け、測定槽５１にプラグ部１１を挿入して、測定槽５１の内周側に露出している各電極の電極膜５２ａ、５３ａ、５４ａ、５５ａに対し、プラグ部１１外周を接触させることなく、電極膜５２ａ、５３ａ、５４ａ、５５ａより上側の測定槽５１内周と電極膜５２ａ、５３ａ、５４ａ、５５ａより下側の測定槽５１底部にそれぞれ環状のＯリング１３、１４を密着させて、測定槽５１とプラグ部１１との間の空間を、二つのＯリング１３、１４に挟まれた電極膜存在部分とそれ以外とに区画し、電極膜５２ａ、５３ａ、５４ａ、５５ａをＯリング１３、１４に挟まれた空隙部分のみに接する状態とすることから、電極膜５２ａ、５３ａ、５４ａ、５５ａを外部から隔離でき、電極膜５２ａ、５３ａ、５４ａ、５５ａが外部の空気に触れて乾燥状態に至ることが無く、電極カートリッジ５０を分析装置から取外した状態においても、イオン選択性電極の機能を劣化させることなく使用可能な状態を維持でき、カートリッジの適切な保管が実現する。 As described above, the electrode protector according to the present embodiment is provided with the plug portion 11 that can be inserted into the measurement tank 51 of the electrode cartridge 50, and the plug portion 11 is inserted into the measurement tank 51, so The electrode film 52a, 53a, 54a, 55a of each electrode exposed to the electrode film 52a, 53a, 54a, 55a, and the electrode film 52a, 53a, 54a, 55a and the inner periphery of the electrode 51 The annular O-rings 13 and 14 are brought into close contact with the bottom of the measurement tank 51 below 52a, 53a, 54a and 55a, respectively, so that the space between the measurement tank 51 and the plug part 11 is separated into two O-rings 13 and 14. Since the electrode film 52a, 53a, 54a, 55a is in contact with only the void part sandwiched between the O-rings 13, 14, the electrode film 52a, 5 a, 54a, 55a can be isolated from the outside, and the electrode membranes 52a, 53a, 54a, 55a do not touch the outside air to reach a dry state, and the ion selection is possible even when the electrode cartridge 50 is removed from the analyzer. Thus, the usable state can be maintained without deteriorating the function of the conductive electrode, and the cartridge can be properly stored.

なお、前記実施形態に係る電極保護体においては、イオン選択性電極５３、５４、５５が三つと比較電極５２が一つある電極カートリッジ５０に対応する構成とされるが、これに限らず、電解質分析の用途に応じて、電極カートリッジ５０のイオン選択性電極を少なくしたもの、例えば、図９（Ａ）に示すようにイオン選択性電極５３、５４を二つとしたものや、図９（Ｂ）に示すようにイオン選択性電極５３を一つのみとしたものに対応させる構成とすることもできる。これらの例の場合、各電極は同じ高さ位置となるので、プラグ部１１は変更の必要はなく、基体部１２の突出した先端部１２ａの配置位置を、電極カートリッジ５０におけるイオン選択性電極や比較電極の位置関係に合わせて調整することで対応できる。 Note that the electrode protector according to the embodiment is configured to correspond to the electrode cartridge 50 having three ion-selective electrodes 53, 54, and 55 and one reference electrode 52. Depending on the purpose of analysis, the number of ion selective electrodes of the electrode cartridge 50 is reduced, for example, two ion selective electrodes 53 and 54 are used as shown in FIG. 9A, or FIG. As shown in FIG. 6, it is possible to adopt a configuration corresponding to a single ion selective electrode 53. In these examples, since the electrodes are at the same height position, the plug portion 11 does not need to be changed, and the arrangement position of the protruding tip portion 12a of the base portion 12 can be changed to the ion selective electrode in the electrode cartridge 50. This can be dealt with by adjusting according to the positional relationship of the comparison electrodes.

また、前記実施形態に係る電極保護体においては、電極カートリッジ５０における複数の電極５２、５３、５４、５５が同じ高さ位置に配置される構造に対応して、プラグ部１１における上下二つのＯリング１３、１４を、電極カートリッジ５０への装着状態で必要最小限の間隔で電極膜５２ａ、５３ａ、５４ａ、５５ａの上下に位置するように配置する構成としているが、これに限らず、図１０に示すように、電極カートリッジ５０における複数の電極５８、５９が異なる高さにずらして配置される場合には、電極カートリッジ５０への装着状態でいずれの電極膜５８ａ、５９ａもＯリング１５、１６間に位置して外部から隔離されるように、プラグ部１１における上下二つのＯリング１５、１６の配置間隔を電極カートリッジ５０の電極配置に対応して適宜広げて設定する構成とすることもでき、電極カートリッジ５０の構造によらず、前記実施形態同様に、イオン選択性電極を劣化から保護できる。 Further, in the electrode protector according to the above embodiment, the upper and lower two O electrodes in the plug portion 11 correspond to the structure in which the plurality of electrodes 52, 53, 54, 55 in the electrode cartridge 50 are arranged at the same height position. The rings 13 and 14 are arranged so as to be positioned above and below the electrode films 52a, 53a, 54a, and 55a at a necessary minimum interval in a state where they are attached to the electrode cartridge 50. However, the present invention is not limited to this. As shown in FIG. 5, when the plurality of electrodes 58 and 59 in the electrode cartridge 50 are arranged at different heights, any of the electrode films 58a and 59a is attached to the electrode cartridge 50 in the O-rings 15 and 16. The spacing between the two upper and lower O-rings 15 and 16 in the plug portion 11 is set so as to be isolated between the electrode cartridge 50 and the electrode cartridge 50. Can also be configured to set spread appropriately in response to location, regardless of the structure of the electrode cartridge 50, the embodiment can likewise be protected from deterioration of the ion-selective electrode.

１電極保護体
１１プラグ部
１１ａ貫通孔
１１ｂ拡径部
１２基体部
１２ａ先端部
１２ｂガイド
１２ｃ溝部
１２ｄつまみ部
１２ｅ爪部
１２ｆ突起部
１３、１４Ｏリング
１５、１６Ｏリング
５０電極カートリッジ
５１測定槽
５１ａ底面
５１ｂ排出孔
５１ｃ切欠き部
５２比較電極
５３、５４、５５イオン選択性電極
５２ａ、５３ａ電極膜
５４ａ、５５ａ電極膜
５２ｂ、５３ｂ接続端子
５４ｂ、５５ｂ接続端子
５６切欠き
５７凸部
５８、５９電極 DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Electrode protector 11 Plug part 11a Through-hole 11b Expanded diameter part 12 Base part 12a Tip part 12b Guide 12c Groove part 12d Knob part 12e Claw part 12f Protrusion part 13, 14 O-ring 15, 16 O-ring 50 Electrode cartridge 51 Measurement tank 51a Bottom 51b Ejection hole 51c Notch 52 Comparative electrode 53, 54, 55 Ion selective electrode 52a, 53a Electrode film 54a, 55a Electrode film 52b, 53b Connection terminal 54b, 55b Connection terminal 56 Notch 57 Protrusion 58, 59 Electrode

Claims

イオン選択性電極を用いた電解質の分析装置において、測定対象溶液が注入される測定槽にイオン選択性電極と比較電極とが露出状態とされる構造をなして、着脱可能に設けられる電極カートリッジに対し、
当該電極カートリッジの測定槽に挿入可能な棒状のプラグ部と、
当該プラグ部と一体に形成され、プラグ部を前記電極カートリッジの測定槽に挿入した状態で電極カートリッジの外側に位置する基体部と、
前記プラグ部の先端部、及び当該先端部から所定寸法離れたプラグ部外周位置にそれぞれ取付固定される弾性変形可能な環状のシール体とを備え、
前記プラグ部は、プラグ部先端が測定槽の最奥部に達する挿入状態で、外周面が測定槽内周面より内側に離隔して位置する太さとされると共に、プラグ部先端部のシール体を電極より下側に位置させ、且つ、プラグ部先端部から所定寸法離れたシール体を電極より上側に位置させ、
前記シール体のうち、プラグ部先端部のものは、未変形状態で前記測定槽内周面より小さい外形で、且つ、プラグ部先端が測定槽の最奥部に達する挿入状態で、測定槽の最奥部の底面に弾性変形を伴いつつ全周で密着する配置とされ、
前記シール体のうち、プラグ部先端部から所定寸法離れたものは、未変形状態で前記測定槽内周面より大きく、測定槽への挿入状態では弾性変形して測定槽内周面に全周で密着する外形とされることを
特徴とする電極保護体。 In an electrolyte analyzer using an ion-selective electrode, an ion cartridge provided in a removable manner with a structure in which an ion-selective electrode and a comparative electrode are exposed in a measurement tank into which a solution to be measured is injected. In contrast,
A rod-shaped plug portion that can be inserted into the measurement tank of the electrode cartridge;
A base portion formed integrally with the plug portion and positioned outside the electrode cartridge in a state where the plug portion is inserted into the measurement tank of the electrode cartridge;
An elastically deformable annular seal body that is attached and fixed to a distal end portion of the plug portion and a plug portion outer peripheral position separated from the distal end portion by a predetermined dimension,
The plug part has an insertion state in which the tip of the plug part reaches the innermost part of the measurement tank, and has an outer peripheral surface that is spaced apart from the inner peripheral surface of the measurement tank. Is positioned below the electrode, and a seal body separated from the tip of the plug portion by a predetermined dimension is positioned above the electrode,
Among the sealing bodies, the one at the tip of the plug part has an outer shape smaller than the inner peripheral surface of the measurement tank in an undeformed state, and in an inserted state where the tip of the plug part reaches the innermost part of the measurement tank, It is an arrangement that closely adheres to the bottom of the innermost part with elastic deformation,
Among the sealing bodies, those that are separated from the tip of the plug part by a predetermined dimension are larger than the inner circumferential surface of the measurement tank in an undeformed state, and elastically deformed when inserted into the measurement tank, and the entire circumference of the inner circumference of the measurement tank. An electrode protector characterized by having an outer shape that is closely attached to.

前記請求項１に記載の電極保護体において、
前記プラグ部に、プラグ部先端部のシール体よりさらに先端側に一方の開口部分を有して、プラグ部長手方向に貫通する孔が設けられることを
特徴とする電極保護体。 The electrode protector according to claim 1,
An electrode protector, wherein the plug portion is provided with a hole having one opening portion further on the tip side than the seal member at the tip portion of the plug portion and penetrating in the longitudinal direction of the plug portion.

前記請求項１又は２に記載の電極保護体において、
前記基体部が、前記電極カートリッジの外周に重なる略筒状部分を有すると共に、当該略筒状部分の先端部の少なくとも一部が、電極カートリッジにおける電極外側の接続端子位置を越えて延長形成されることを
特徴とする電極保護体。 In the electrode protector according to claim 1 or 2,
The base portion has a substantially cylindrical portion that overlaps the outer periphery of the electrode cartridge, and at least a part of the tip portion of the substantially cylindrical portion extends beyond the connection terminal position outside the electrode in the electrode cartridge. An electrode protector characterized by that.

前記請求項３に記載の電極保護体において、
前記基体部が、外周面を略円筒面状に形成される電極カートリッジに対応させて、前記略筒状部分を円筒状とされ、
前記基体部に、略筒状部分の内径と電極カートリッジの外径の差より大きい突出量で略筒状部分の内周から突出する凸状部として形成され、電極カートリッジの外周端部に穿設される溝又は切欠きに挿入可能とされるガイドが設けられることを
特徴とする電極保護体。 In the electrode protector according to claim 3,
The base portion corresponds to an electrode cartridge whose outer peripheral surface is formed in a substantially cylindrical shape, and the substantially cylindrical portion is cylindrical,
The base portion is formed as a convex portion that protrudes from the inner periphery of the substantially cylindrical portion with a protruding amount larger than the difference between the inner diameter of the approximately cylindrical portion and the outer diameter of the electrode cartridge, and is formed in the outer peripheral end of the electrode cartridge. An electrode protector comprising a guide that can be inserted into a groove or a notch.

前記請求項３に記載の電極保護体において、
前記基体部が、外周面を略円筒面状に形成される電極カートリッジに対応させて、前記略筒状部分を円筒状とされ、
前記基体部に、略筒状部分の内径と電極カートリッジの外径の差より大きい突出量で電極カートリッジの外周面から突出する凸部を挿入可能な、プラグ部長手方向と平行に連続する溝又は切欠きが穿設されることを
特徴とする電極保護体。 In the electrode protector according to claim 3,
The base portion corresponds to an electrode cartridge whose outer peripheral surface is formed in a substantially cylindrical shape, and the substantially cylindrical portion is cylindrical,
A groove continuous in parallel with the longitudinal direction of the plug portion, into which the convex portion protruding from the outer peripheral surface of the electrode cartridge with a protruding amount larger than the difference between the inner diameter of the substantially cylindrical portion and the outer diameter of the electrode cartridge can be inserted into the base portion. An electrode protector characterized in that a notch is drilled.