Sample rack conveying apparatus and automated analysis system

An automated analysis system comprising:

• an automated analysis apparatus that analyzes a sample stored in a sample container;
• and
• a sample rack conveying apparatus that conveys a sample rack in which the sample container is stored,
• the sample rack conveying apparatus including:
• a pusher unit that pushes a sample rack in which a sample container is stored so as to convey the sample rack;
• a linear motion guide that supports the pusher unit such that the pusher unit is movable in a first guide direction;
• a single conveyance drive mechanism that moves the pusher unit in the first guide direction,
• the pusher unit including:
• a base portion which is supported by the linear motion guide so as to be movable in the first guide direction,
• a moving member which is provided with a pusher which presses the sample rack,
• a base-side guide which is provided on the base portion and which supports the moving member such that the moving member is movable in a second guide direction which crosses the first guide direction,
• a rotating shaft provided on the moving member, and
• a rotating member supported by the rotating shaft so as to be rotatable within a plane formed by the first guide direction and the second guide direction,
• wherein the pusher is fixed to the rotating member, so as to be rotatable within the plane formed by the first guide direction and the second guide direction as the rotating member rotates;
• and
• a unit guide that guides the moving member in the first guide direction and in the second guide direction,
• wherein the pusher unit includes an urging member which urges the moving member to the unit guide, and
• wherein the moving member is driven by the conveyance drive mechanism to move in the second guide direction by being supported by the base-side guide.