Assembly for handling a string of consecutive medication bags, method for handling a string of consective medication bags and non-traient computer readable storage means

Description

1 / 36 “ASSEMBLY FOR HANDLING A STRING OF CONSECUTIVE MEDICINE BAGS, METHOD FOR HANDLING A STRING OF CONSECUTIVE MEDICINE BAGS AND NON-TRANSIENT COMPUTER-READABLE STORAGE MEDIUM” Background

[0001] The invention relates to an assembly for handling a string of consecutive medicine bags. The invention further relates to a method for handling a string of consecutive medicine bags using the assembly. Summary of the Invention

[0002] It is an object of the present invention to provide an assembly and a method for handling a string of consecutive medicine bags whereby the handling of the string of consecutive medicine bags can be improved.

[0003] According to a first aspect, an assembly is provided for handling a string of consecutive medicine bags, wherein the assembly comprises a packaging device for packaging distinct medicines into the respective medicine bags of said string, and a winding device for receiving the string from the packaging device and winding said string onto a reel, and a control unit that is operationally connected to said packaging device and said winding device, wherein the winding unit, in which the control unit is arranged to: - receive one or more package status signals from the packaging device and send one or more winding control signals to the winding device in response to said one or more package status signals; and / or - receive one or more winding status signals from Petition 870260043399, dated 08 / 05 / 2026, page 10 / 107 2 / 36 winding device and send one or more packaging control signals to the packaging device in response to said one or more winding status signals.

[0004] In other words, the control unit is operationally, electronically, and / or functionally connected to provide a means of communication between the winding device and the packaging device. This can be wired or wireless communication, depending on the system. Thus, in response to a detected state of the packaging device, the control unit can control the winding device to perform an appropriate action and vice versa. The transport of the cord through the packaging unit can, for example, be interrupted when a defect is detected in the winding device, to prevent the accumulation of a large length of cord between the packaging device and the winding device. Furthermore, the winding of the cord from consecutive medicine bags onto the reel can be automatically adapted to the output of said cord from the packaging device.Similarly, the output of the cord from consecutive medicine bags in the packaging device can be automatically adapted to the winding of said cord on the reel. In this way, the cord can be handled more reliably and / or excessive forces, which could break or damage the cord, can be avoided.

[0005] The control unit is additionally arranged to determine a winding state, based on one or more winding state signals, which is indicative of one or more of the following: - an error in transporting the cord between the packaging device and the winding device; - a difference between the output speed of the cord at a packaging device's output and the speed of Petition 870260043399, dated 08 / 05 / 2026, page 11 / 107 3 / 36 winding the cord onto the reel; - the reel is full; and / or - a defect in the winding device.

[0006] For example, the control unit may be arranged to determine a first winding state based on one or more winding state signals, where the first winding state is indicative of an error in the transport of the cord between the packaging output and the reel. In particular, the first winding state may be indicative that the cord is not correctly connected to the reel or is not present in the winding device. In the case of said first winding state, the packaging device would continue to send the cord handling bags while said cord would not be wound around the reel. Consequently, a length of cord would be produced on the floor, creating an uncontrollable tangle. Furthermore, the cord may be damaged in the process. The control unit can detect this state so that appropriate actions can be taken and / or directed by the control unit.

[0007] Additionally or alternatively, the control unit may be arranged to determine a second winding state based on one or more winding state signals, wherein the second winding state is indicative of a winding speed on the reel that is greater than a cord exit speed at the packaging exit. Such a speed difference may stretch and eventually break or rupture the cord. The control unit may detect this state so that appropriate actions can be taken and / or directed by the control unit.

[0008] Additionally or alternatively, the control unit may be arranged to determine a third winding state based on one or more winding state signals, wherein the third state of Petition 870260043399, dated 08 / 05 / 2026, page 12 / 107 4 / 36 winding indicates that the winding speed on the reel is lower than the cord's exit speed at the packaging output. In this third winding state, tension on the cord is reduced. In particular, the cord could decay, which could ultimately result in the cord being produced on a factory floor. This can result in damage to the cord in medicine bags. The control unit can detect this state so that appropriate actions can be taken and / or directed by the control unit.

[0009] Alternatively, the control unit may be arranged to determine a fourth winding state based on one or more winding state signals, wherein the fourth winding state is indicative that the reel is full. When the reel is full, the cord must be cut and the resulting front end of the cord must be coupled to an additional reel. Consequently, the full reel can be replaced with an empty reel. The control unit can detect this state so that appropriate actions can be taken and / or directed by the control unit.

[0010] Additionally or alternatively, the winding device may be arranged to determine a fifth winding state based on one or more winding state signals, wherein the fifth winding state is indicative of a fault in the winding device. The control unit may thereby detect the fault or error in the winding device so that appropriate actions may be taken and / or directed by the control unit.

[0011] In one embodiment, the control unit is programmed to generate, in response to the detected winding state, a package control signal comprising one or more of the following instructions: Petition 870260043399, dated 08 / 05 / 2026, page 13 / 107 5 / 36 - to stop the cord from being transported by the packaging device; - increase the speed of the cord exiting the packaging outlet; and / or - Reduce the speed of the cord exiting the packaging outlet.

[0012] For example, the control unit may be arranged to send a first packaging control signal to the packaging device in response to the determination of the first winding state, wherein the first packaging control signal comprises instructions to stop the conveying of the cord by the packaging device. The first packaging control signal generated by the control unit may instruct the packaging device to perform the appropriate actions, for example, ceasing the conveying of the cord by the packaging device. In this way, the aforementioned disadvantages can be avoided.

[0013] Alternatively, the control unit may be arranged to send a second packaging control signal to the packaging device in response to the determination of the fourth winding state, wherein the second packaging control signal comprises instructions to stop the conveying of the cord by the packaging device. The control unit may additionally send a winding feedback signal to the winding device to stop the winding of the cord onto the reel. In this way, the conveying of the cord can be automatically paused when a reel is full. This may allow an operator or additional device to change the full reel and couple the cord to an additional reel.

[0014] In a further embodiment thereof, the control unit is programmed to generate, in response to the detected winding state, a winding feedback signal to be sent back Petition 870260043399, dated 08 / 05 / 2026, page 14 / 107 6 / 36 for the winding device.

[0015] In a further embodiment thereof, the winding feedback signal comprises one or more of the following instructions: - to stop the cord from winding using the winding device; - Increase the winding speed of the cord on the reel; - Decrease the winding speed of the cord on the reel; and / or - reverse the winding direction of the reel.

[0016] For example, the control unit may be arranged to send a first winding feedback signal or additional winding control signal to the winding device in response to the determination of the second winding state, wherein the first winding feedback signal or additional winding control signal comprises instructions to the winding device to decrease the winding speed on the reel. In this way, the control unit can automatically perform appropriate actions to prevent breakage or rupture of the cord.

[0017] Alternatively, the control unit may be arranged to send a second winding feedback signal or an additional winding control signal to the winding device in response to the determination of the third winding state, wherein the second winding feedback signal or the additional control signal contains instructions for the winding device to increase the winding speed on the reel. In this way, the control unit can automatically perform the appropriate action upon detecting a decrease in cord tension.

[0018] Additionally or alternatively, the control unit may Petition 870260043399, dated 08 / 05 / 2026, page 15 / 107 7 / 36 be prepared to send a third winding feedback signal or an additional winding control signal to the winding device in response to the determination of the fifth winding state, wherein the third winding feedback signal or the additional winding control signal comprises instructions to actuate the reel to rotate in a direction opposite to the winding direction for a predetermined time interval. In other words, the cord is at least partially unwound from the reel. In this way, tension on the cord can be reduced. Unwinding the cord can allow access to the winding device by an operator. Furthermore, by reducing the tension on the cord, the safety of said operator can be increased. Additionally, tearing of said cord can be avoided.

[0019] In a further embodiment, the winding device comprises one or more sensors that are operationally connected to the control unit to detect the presence or absence of a cord of consecutive medicine bags. The one or more sensors may detect the presence or absence of the cord at a respective location along a cord path. The detection of the presence or absence of the cord by one or more of the sensors may serve as a winding status signal. The control unit may be arranged to detect the presence of a cord in the winding device based on the winding status signals. Consequently, the control unit may detect a winding state, such as one of the exemplary winding states as described above, and may, in response, send a packaging control signal to the packaging device.

[0020] In one embodiment thereof, the winding device comprises a dancing roller that defines at least part of the cord path between the packaging outlet and the reel, wherein the roller Petition 870260043399, dated 08 / 05 / 2026, p. 16 / 107 The 8 / 36 dancer is movable between a first position and a second position, wherein the dancer roller is inclined towards the first position, wherein the dancer roller is arranged to be moved towards the second position under the influence of the passing cord, and wherein one or more sensors comprise a dancer roller sensor or the first sensor which is arranged to detect a presence of the dancer roller in at least one of the first and second positions. Said dancer roller sensor may, for example, be a proximity sensor. In other words, the control unit may conveniently detect an absence of the cord in the winding device based on the position of the dancer roller.

[0021] For example, the control unit may be arranged to determine the first winding state when the presence of the dancing roller in the first position is detected by the dancing roller sensor.

[0022] In a further embodiment, one or more sensors comprise a second sensor that is arranged to detect a presence or absence of the cord along a desired cord path. Said second sensor may, for example, be an optical sensor. A sensor along the desired cord path may conveniently detect an absence of the cord and / or a deviation of the cord path from the desired path.

[0023] For example, the control unit may be arranged to determine the first winding state when the absence of the cord is detected by the second sensor.

[0024] Additionally or alternatively, the control unit may be arranged to determine the second winding state when the second sensor detects the absence of the cord and the dancing roller sensor detects the absence of the dancing roller in the first position of the same. In other words, an increased tension in the cord, resulting from a speed of Petition 870260043399, dated 08 / 05 / 2026, page 17 / 107 9 / 36 The winding speed of the cord on the reel being greater than the cord's exit speed at the packaging output can be detected by the combined winding status signals from the first and second sensors.

[0025] Alternatively, the control unit may be arranged to determine the third winding state when the second sensor detects the presence of the cord and the dancing roller sensor detects the presence of the dancing roller in the first position of the same. The second sensor may detect that a cord is present in the winding device, in contrast to the first winding state. The dancing roller sensor, however, may detect that the tension in said cord is insufficient to move the dancing roller. In this way, the control unit can reliably determine the third winding state. Furthermore, the control unit can reliably distinguish the third winding state from the first winding state.

[0026] In a further embodiment, one or more sensors comprise a path sensor or a second sensor that is arranged to detect the presence or absence of a loop of the cord outside, for example, that has decayed downwards, of a desired cord path. Optionally, the path sensor is an optical sensor. The path sensor may conveniently detect the presence of said loop.

[0027] When a desired cord path does not include said loop, the control unit may, for example, be arranged to determine the third winding state when the path sensor detects the presence of said cord loop.

[0028] In a further embodiment, one or more sensors comprise a reel sensor or a third sensor that is arranged to detect a quantity of the cord of consecutive medical bags wrapped around the reel. The reel sensor may, for example, be a Petition 870260043399, dated 08 / 05 / 2026, page 18 / 107 10 / 36 load cell to detect the weight of the reel. Alternatively, the reel sensor can be a distance sensor to detect a radius of the cord wound around the reel. The control unit may be arranged to determine the fourth winding state when the detected amount of cord exceeds a predetermined threshold.

[0029] In a further embodiment, the winding device additionally comprises a winding actuator to drive the reel to rotate and a torque sensor to measure the torque of said winding actuator. When the cord is not coupled to the reel, the winding drive rotates only the reel, which may result in a decrease in torque. In this way, an absence of the cord on the reel can be conveniently detected. The control unit may be arranged to determine the first winding state when the torque of the winding actuator is below a predetermined threshold.

[0030] In an additional embodiment, the control unit is arranged to determine the state of the packaging based on one or more packaging status signals that are indicative of one or more of the following: - a sealing unit of the packaging device that is opened; - an error in transporting the cord between the packaging device and the winding device; - a difference between the cord exit speed at a packaging device's packaging output and the cord winding speed on the reel; - the reel is full; and / or - a defect in the packaging device.

[0031] In one embodiment thereof, the control unit is programmed to generate, in response to the detected packaging state, a Petition 870260043399, dated 08 / 05 / 2026, page 19 / 107 11 / 36 winding control signal comprising one or more of the following instructions: - to stop the cord from winding using the winding device; - Increase the winding speed of the cord on the reel; - Decrease the winding speed of the cord on the reel; and / or - reverse the winding direction of the reel.

[0032] For example, the control unit may be arranged to send a first winding control signal to the winding device in response to the determination of the first packaging state, wherein the first winding control signal comprises instructions to stop the winding of the cord around the reel by the winding device. In this way, the control unit can perform appropriate actions automatically or autonomously in response to the first packaging state. By stopping the winding of the cord around the reel, tensioning or, ultimately, a break in the cord can be avoided.

[0033] In one embodiment thereof, the control unit is programmed to generate, in response to the detected packaging state, a packaging feedback signal to be sent back to the packaging device.

[0034] In an additional embodiment, the feedback signal on the packaging comprises one or more of the following instructions: - to stop the cord from being transported by the packaging device; - increase the speed of the cord exiting the packaging outlet; and / or - Reduce the speed of the cord exiting the packaging outlet. Petition 870260043399, dated 08 / 05 / 2026, page 20 / 107 12 / 36

[0035] In a further embodiment, the winding device comprises a winding actuator for actuating the reel to rotate in a winding direction to wind the yarn around the reel.

[0036] In a further embodiment, the packaging device comprises a packaging unit for carrying the cord through the packaging device.

[0037] In a further embodiment, the control unit comprises a non-transient computer-readable means comprising instructions for processing one or more winding status signals and / or one or more packaging status signals and, in response, generating the respective one or more winding control signals and / or one or more packaging control signals and a processing unit for executing said instructions.

[0038] According to a second aspect, the invention relates to a method for handling a string of consecutive medicine bags using the assembly according to the first aspect of the invention, wherein the method comprises the steps of: - receive one or more package status signals from the packaging device and send one or more winding control signals to the winding device in response to said one or more package status signals; and / or - receive one or more winding status signals from the winding device and send one or more packaging control signals to the packaging device in response to said one or more winding status signals.

[0039] In other words, the method involves communication between the winding device and the packaging device. In this way, Petition 870260043399, dated 08 / 05 / 2026, page 21 / 107 13 / 36 In response to a detected state of the packaging device, the appropriate action can be performed on the winding device and vice versa. Consequently, the winding of the cord of consecutive medicine bags onto the reel can be adapted to the output of said cord from the packaging device. In this way, the cord can be handled more reliably. Furthermore, excessive forces, which could break or damage the cord, can be avoided.

[0040] In one embodiment thereof, the method further comprises the step of determining a winding state, based on one or more winding state signals, which is indicative of one or more of the following: - an error in transporting the cord between the packaging device and the winding device; - a difference between the cord exit speed at a packaging device's packaging output and the cord winding speed on the reel; - the reel is full; and / or - a defect in the winding device.

[0041] In an additional embodiment, the method further comprises the step of generating, in response to the detected winding state, a packaging control signal comprising one or more of the following instructions: - to stop the cord from being transported by the packaging device; - increase the speed of the cord exiting the packaging outlet; and / or Petition 870260043399, dated 08 / 05 / 2026, page 22 / 107 14 / 36 - decrease the speed of the cord exiting the packaging outlet.

[0042] In a further embodiment thereof, the method comprises interrupting the transport of the cord by the packaging device in response to a winding state indicative of an error in the transport of the cord between the packaging outlet and the reel. In the event of an error in the transport of the cord between the packaging outlet and the reel, the packaging device would continue to send the cord into medicine bags while said cord would not be wound around the reel. Consequently, a length of cord would be produced on the floor, creating an uncontrollable tangle. Furthermore, the cord may be damaged in the process. Cessation of the cord transport by the packaging device may be a suitable action to avoid the aforementioned disadvantages.

[0043] In a further embodiment, the method comprises increasing the output speed of the cord at a packaging device output in response to a winding state indicating that the winding speed on the reel is greater than the output speed of the cord. Such a speed difference may stretch and eventually break or rupture the cord. Increasing the output speed on the reel may prevent the cord from breaking or rupturing.

[0044] In a further embodiment, the method comprises decreasing the output speed of the cord at a packaging device output in response to a winding state indicative of a winding speed on the reel being lower than the cord output speed. In this particular winding state, the cord may decay, which may result in the cord being produced on a factory floor. This can result in damage to the cord of medicine bags. By decreasing the output speed, cord decay can be avoided.

[0045] In an additional embodiment, the method comprises Petition 870260043399, dated 08 / 05 / 2026, page 23 / 107 15 / 36 interrupt the transport of the cord by the packaging device in response to the reel being full. When the reel is full, the cord should be cut and the resulting front end of the cord should be attached to an additional reel. Consequently, the full reel can be replaced with an empty reel. The method comprises pausing the transport of the cord when a reel is full. This may allow an operator or additional device to exchange the full reel and attach the cord to an additional reel.

[0046] In an additional embodiment, the method further comprises the steps of generating, in response to the detected winding state, a winding feedback signal and sending said winding feedback signal to the winding device. Optionally, the winding feedback signal comprises one or more of the following instructions: - to stop the cord from winding using the winding device; - Increase the winding speed of the cord on the reel; - Decrease the winding speed of the cord on the reel; and / or - reverse the winding direction of the reel. In this way, in addition to or instead of the packaging control signal, a winding feedback signal can be sent to the winding device. Consequently, appropriate actions can be taken in response to a winding state detected in the packaging device, in the winding device, or in both the packaging and winding devices.

[0047] In a further embodiment thereof, the method comprises decreasing a winding speed on the reel in response to a winding state indicating that the winding speed on the reel is greater than the cord exit speed at a packaging device outlet. Such a speed difference may Petition 870260043399, dated 08 / 05 / 2026, page 24 / 107 16 / 36 stretching and eventually breaking or tearing the cord. Reducing the winding speed on the reel can prevent the cord from breaking or tearing.

[0048] In a further embodiment, the method comprises increasing a winding speed on the reel in response to a winding state indicative of the winding speed on the reel being less than a cord exit speed at a packaging device outlet. In this particular winding state, the cord may decay, which may result in the cord being produced on a factory floor. This may result in damage to the cord of medicine bags. By increasing the winding speed, cord decay can be avoided.

[0049] In a further embodiment, the method comprises rotating the reel in a direction opposite to the winding direction for a predetermined time interval in response to a fault in the winding device. In other words, the cord is at least partially unwound from the reel. In this way, tension on the cord can be reduced. Unwinding the cord can allow an operator access to the winding device. Furthermore, by reducing the tension on the cord, the safety of said operator can be increased.

[0050] In an additional embodiment, the method comprises the step of determining a packaging condition based on one or more packaging condition signs that are indicative of one or more of the following: - a sealing unit of the packaging device that is opened; - an error in transporting the cord between the packaging device and the winding device; - a difference between the output speed of the cord at a packaging device's output and the speed of Petition 870260043399, dated 08 / 05 / 2026, page 25 / 107 17 / 36 winding the cord onto the reel; - the reel is full; and / or - a defect in the packaging device.

[0051] In one embodiment thereof, the method further comprises generating, in response to the detected packaging state, a winding control signal comprising one or more of the following instructions: - to stop the cord from winding using the winding device; - Increase the winding speed of the cord on the reel; - decrease the winding speed of the cord on the reel; and / or - Reverse the direction of winding the spool.

[0052] In a further embodiment thereof, the method comprises interrupting the winding of the cord around the reel by the winding device in response to a defect in the packaging device. By interrupting the winding of the cord around the reel, tensioning or, ultimately, a break in the cord can be avoided.

[0053] In an additional embodiment, the method further comprises the steps of generating, in response to the detected packaging state, a packaging feedback signal and sending said packaging feedback signal back to the packaging device. Optionally, the packaging feedback signal comprises one or more of the following instructions: - to stop the cord from being transported by the packaging device; - increase the speed of the cord exiting the packaging outlet; and / or - Reduce the speed of the cord exiting the packaging outlet. Petition 870260043399, dated 08 / 05 / 2026, page 26 / 107 18 / 36

[0054] According to a third aspect, the present invention relates to a computer-readable means having computer-executable instructions adapted to cause the control unit of the invention to execute the method of the invention. The computer-readable means implements the method of the present invention. In this way, the same advantages described above apply equally.

[0055] The various aspects and features described and shown in the descriptive report can be applied individually whenever possible. These individual aspects, in particular the aspects and features described in the attached dependent claims, may be the subject of separate patent applications. Brief Description of the Drawings

[0056] The invention will be elucidated based on an exemplary embodiment shown in the attached schematic drawings, in which: Figure 1 shows an assembly comprising an assembly according to the embodiment of the present invention in an exemplary process step; Figure 2 shows an assembly comprising an assembly according to the embodiment of the present invention in an exemplary process step; Figure 3 shows an assembly comprising an assembly according to the embodiment of the present invention in an exemplary process step; Figure 4 shows an assembly comprising an assembly according to the embodiment of the present invention in an exemplary process step; Figure 5 shows a detailed view of the connection between the spool and the winding device according to circle V in Figure 1; and. Petition 870260043399, dated 08 / 05 / 2026, page 27 / 107 19 / 36 Figure 6 shows a front view of the detail from Figure 5 in an operational condition; Figure 7 shows a front view of the detail from Figure 5 in an operational condition. Detailed Description of the Invention

[0057] Figures 1-4 show an assembly 1 for handling a string 9 of consecutive medicine bags. Assembly 1 comprises a packaging device 2 for packaging distinct medicines into the respective medicine bags of said string 9. Assembly 1 further comprises a winding device 3 for receiving the string 9 from the packaging device 2 and winding said string 9 onto a roll 4.

[0058] As further shown in Figures 1-4, the packaging device 2 comprises a loading station 23 for loading the respective consecutive medicine bags from the cord 9. In particular, said loading station 23 is arranged to dispense a predetermined quantity of distinct medicines into a respective medicine bag. The packaging device 2 further comprises a sealing station 22 for sealing the loaded medicine bags.

[0059] The packaging device 2 further comprises a packaging outlet 21 for producing the string 9 of consecutive medicine bags. The packaging device 2 comprises a packaging actuator 26 for transporting the string 9 of consecutive medicine bags through the packaging device 2. In particular, the packaging actuator 26 is arranged to transport the string 9 of consecutive medicine bags through said loading station 23 and said sealing station 22 to said packaging outlet 21.

[0060] Typically, an elongated network (not shown) is Petition 870260043399, dated 08 / 05 / 2026, page 28 / 107 20 / 36 fed to packaging device 2 to be formed into a cord 9 of consecutive medicine bags. Packaging device 2 may be arranged to form at least part of the respective medicine bags in said net, for example, by applying a cord of thermal seals to an elongated net. Alternatively, the bags may be pre-formed in the elongated net before the net is fed to packaging machine 2.

[0061] The packaging actuator 26 is typically arranged for the intermittent transport of the cord 9 of consecutive medicine bags to allow the feeding of medicines into the respective bags of said cord 9 at the loading station 23 and / or to allow a secure sealing of the respective bags of the cord 9 at the sealing station 22. The packaging actuator 26 may comprise a damping mechanism (not shown), such as a dancer, to attenuate the intermittent transport of the cord 9 at the packaging outlet 21. In particular, such a damping mechanism may allow a constant or substantially constant output of the cord 9 at the packaging outlet 21.

[0062] As shown in Figures 1-4, the reel 4 is provided with a central hub or reel hub 40 extending along a central geometric axis A. The reel 4 further comprises two flanges 42. The flanges 42 are separated in an axial direction parallel to the central geometric axis A to confine the cord in said axial direction. The flanges 42 are connected to the reel hub 40 and extend in the opposite direction from said hub 40 in an external radial direction relative to the central geometric axis A.

[0063] As can be better observed in Figures 5-7, the spool hub 40 further comprises a support surface 400 for receiving the cord 9. The support surface 400 extends in such a way Petition 870260043399, dated 08 / 05 / 2026, page 29 / 107 21 / 36 circumferential around the central geometric axis A. The reel 4 further comprises a clamp 41 for fixing a front end of the cord 9 to the support surface 400. Said clamp 41 is rotatable about a clamp geometric axis B. The clamp geometric axis B is parallel to the central geometric axis A. In particular, the clamp geometric axis B is separated in the opposite direction from the central geometric axis A. Optionally, the clamp 41 is inclined towards the support surface 400.

[0064] The winding device 3 comprises a coupling element 30 for receiving the reel 4. The coupling element 30 comprises a drive shaft 300 for driving the reel 4 to rotate about the central geometric axis A. As shown in Figures 6 and 7, the drive shaft 300 is a keyed drive shaft 300 comprising a notch, cam or key 301 projecting from said drive shaft 300 in a radial direction transverse or perpendicular to the central geometric axis A. Alternatively, the drive shaft 300 may, for example, comprise a plurality of notches, cams or keys 301 distributed circumferentially around the central geometric axis A. The notch, cam or key 301 is arranged to engage the reel 4 to drive the reel 4 in co-rotation with the drive shaft 300.

[0065] As illustrated in Figures 5-7, the coupling member 30 comprises a retaining member 302 for retaining the spool in an axial direction parallel to the central geometric axis A. The retaining member 302 is movable to a retaining position in which said retaining member 302 projects radially from the transmission shaft 300. In this particular embodiment, the retaining element 302 is additionally movable to a retracted position in which the retaining element 302 does not project from the transmission shaft 300 to release the spool 4 from the coupling member 30. In particular, the retaining element 302 is spring-loaded in the position of Petition 870260043399, dated 08 / 05 / 2026, page 30 / 107 22 / 36 retention. In this way, the reel can be conveniently removed by neutralizing the spring load on the retaining element 302 and then sliding the reel 4 over the transmission shaft 300.

[0066] As further shown in Figures 5-7, the reel 4 is provided with a central hole extending through the reel hub 40 along the central geometric axis A to receive the coupling member 30 of the winding device 3. The reel 4 comprises one or more key slots or strips 401 to receive the notch or key 301 of the coupling bar 30. In this particular embodiment, the key slots or strips 401 are circumferentially distributed around the central geometric axis A. In particular, the key slots or strips 401 are uniformly distributed around the central geometric axis A.

[0067] Preferably, the retaining element 302 is offset in the circumferential direction relative to the cam, notch or key 301, so that the retaining member 302 is not aligned with a groove or a key track 401 of the reel 4.

[0068] In this particular embodiment, the winding device 3 comprises a winding actuator 6 for actuating the coupling element 30 to rotate. Alternatively, the spool 4 may, for example, be actuated to rotate by an external actuator acting on an outer circumferential surface of the spool 4. For example, an external unit may be affixed to an outer rim of one or both flanges 42.

[0069] The winding device 3 further comprises a series of rollers 34, 35, 36 for guiding the cord 9 of consecutive medical bags along a cord path S. Said cord path S extends between the packaging outlet 21 and the reel 4. Rollers 34, 35, 36 comprise a first guide roller 34, a second guide roller 35 and Petition 870260043399, dated 08 / 05 / 2026, page 31 / 107 23 / 36 a dancing roller 36 between said first guide roller 34 and said second guide roller 35 along the path of cord S. The dancing roller 36 is movable between a first position, as shown in Figure 3, and a second position at a distance separated from the first position. Optionally, the dancing roller 36 is inclined towards the first position. The dancer may, for example, be inclined by an inclination element, such as a spring, or under the influence of gravity. In particular, the dancing roller 36 is arranged to be displaced towards the second position under the influence of the passing cord 9.

[0070] The winding device comprises a first sensor 31 or a dancing roller sensor for monitoring the position of said dancing roller 36. In particular, the first sensor 31 is arranged to detect the presence of the dancing roller 36 in the first position. The first sensor 31 may, for example, be a limit sensor.

[0071] Alternatively, the dancing roller 36 can be locked in the first position. In this way, in said first position, the dancing roller 36 can passively tension the cord 9, for example, guiding the cord 9 along an S-curve in cooperation with the first and second guide rollers 34, 35. The dancing roller 36 can additionally be unlocked and moved to or towards the second position to facilitate the mounting or dismounting of the cord 9 on the reel 4.

[0072] As can be better observed in Figures 1 and 2, the winding device 3 comprises a second sensor 32 or a path sensor arranged along the cord path S to detect the presence or absence of the cord 9. As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the cord path S is arranged to form a loop between the packaging outlet 21 and the first guide roller 34 of the winding device 3. Preferably, said loop is formed at or near the first guide roller 34. Petition 870260043399, dated 08 / 05 / 2026, page 32 / 107 24 / 36 As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the second sensor 32 is arranged along the path of cord S, so that the second sensor 32 can detect the presence or absence of said loop or an excess of cord 9. In particular, the second sensor 32 is arranged below the first guide roller 34.

[0073] Figure 1 shows a condition in which a loop is formed in the cord 9 that passes in front of the second sensor 32. Consequently, the second sensor 32 can detect the presence of said cord 9. Figure 2 shows a condition in which the cord 9 is tensioned and, as a consequence, does not pass in front of the second sensor. Consequently, the second sensor can detect the absence of said spring 9. Preferably, the second sensor 32 comprises an optical sensor.

[0074] As shown in Figures 1-4, the winding device 3 comprises a third sensor 33 or a reel sensor for detecting a quantity of cord 9 wound around the reel 4. Said third sensor 33 may, for example, be a distance sensor. Alternatively, the third sensor 33 may, for example, be a load cell for measuring a mass of the reel 4.

[0075] The winding device 3 may comprise one or more additional sensors to detect process parameters of the winding device 3. For example, the winding device 3 may comprise a torque sensor (not shown) to measure a torque of the winding actuator 6.

[0076] Assembly 1 further comprises a control unit 5 which is operationally connected to the packaging device 2 and the winding device. In particular, the control unit 5 is operationally connected to the first sensor 31, the second sensor 32 and the third sensor 33 of the winding device 3. The unit of Petition 870260043399, dated 08 / 05 / 2026, page 33 / 107 25 / 36 control is additionally connected to winding actuator 6 of winding device 3 and to packing actuator 26 of packing device 2. Control unit 5 may be connected to additional sensors and / or actuators (not shown).

[0077] Control unit 5 is arranged to communicate between packaging device 2 and winding device 3. Additionally, control unit 5 may be arranged to provide feedback to packaging device 2, winding device 3, or both. In particular, control unit 5 is arranged to receive one or more packaging status signals from packaging device 2 and to send one or more winding control signals to winding device 3 in response to said one or more packaging status signals. Consequently, control unit 5 is arranged to receive one or more winding status signals from winding device 3 and to send one or more packaging control signals to packaging device 2 in response to said one or more winding status signals.

[0078] In particular, control unit 5 is arranged to determine one or more winding states based on one or more received winding state signals. Control unit 5 is further arranged to determine one or more packaging states based on one or more received packaging state signals. Control unit 5 is programmed to generate a respective packaging control signal and / or a respective winding feedback signal in response to a respective winding state. Consequently, control unit 5 is programmed to generate a respective winding control signal and / or a respective packaging feedback signal in response to a respective packaging state.

[0079] A non-exhaustive range of examples of states of Petition 870260043399, dated 08 / 05 / 2026, page 34 / 107 26 / 36 winding and packaging conditions are described in more detail below:

[0080] The control unit 5 may be arranged to determine a first winding state indicative of an error in the transport of the cord 9 between the packaging outlet and the reel 4, for example, the cord 9 may not be coupled to the reel. The first winding state may, for example, be determined when the presence of the dancing roller 36 in the first position is detected by the first sensor 31. Additionally or alternatively, when the desired cord path S comprises a loop at or near the second sensor 32, the first winding state may be determined when an absence of said loop of the cord 9 is detected by the second sensor 32. Optionally, the control unit 5 may be programmed to determine only the first winding state when the first sensor 31 detects the dancing roller 36 in the first position, while the second sensor 32 detects an absence of the cord 9.

[0081] Additionally or alternatively, the control unit 5 may be arranged to measure a torque of the winding actuator 6. The control unit 5 may be programmed to determine the first winding state when the torque of said winding actuator 6 is below a predetermined threshold.

[0082] Control unit 5 is programmed to generate a first packaging control signal in response to the detection of the first winding state. Control unit 5 is arranged to send the first packaging control signal to packaging device 2. The first packaging control signal may, for example, comprise instructions to interrupt the transport of the cord 9 by the packaging actuator 26. Additionally, the first packaging control signal may comprise instructions to interrupt the sealing and loading of the medicine bags by the sealing station 22 and the station of Petition 870260043399, dated 08 / 05 / 2026, page 35 / 107 27 / 36 loading 23, respectively.

[0083] The control unit 5 may be additionally arranged to determine a second winding state indicative of a winding speed on the reel 4 that is greater than an exit speed of the cord 9 at the packaging exit 21. Said second winding state may, for example, be determined when the second sensor 32 detects the absence of the cord 9 while the first sensor 31 detects the absence of the dancing roller 36 in the first position, i.e., when the dancing roller 36 is displaced towards the second position by the passing cord 9.

[0084] Control unit 5 is programmed to generate a first winding feedback signal or an additional winding control signal in response to the second winding state. Control unit 5 is arranged to send said first winding feedback signal or additional winding control signal to winding device 3. The first winding feedback signal or the additional control signal may, for example, comprise instructions to the winding actuator 6 to decrease the winding speed on reel 4.

[0085] Additionally or alternatively, the control unit 5 can be programmed to generate a packaging control signal in response to the second winding state. The packaging control signal may comprise instructions for the packaging device 2 to increase the output speed of the cord 9 at the packaging output 21.

[0086] Control unit 5 may be additionally arranged to determine a third winding state indicative of a winding speed on reel 4 that is less than a cord output speed 9 at the packaging output 21. When a cord trajectory Petition 870260043399, dated 08 / 05 / 2026, page 36 / 107 28 / 36 If the desired cord path S does not include a loop at or near the location of the second sensor 32, the control unit 5 may be arranged to determine the third winding state when the second sensor 32 detects the presence of said cord loop 9. Alternatively, when a desired cord path S includes a loop at or near the location of the second sensor 32, the control unit 5 may be arranged to determine the third winding state when the second sensor 32 detects the presence of cord 9, while the first sensor 31 detects the presence of the dancing roller 36 in the first position thereof. This may, for example, be the case when cord 9 is correctly connected to reel 4, but the tension in said cord is insufficient to move the dancing roller 36 in the opposite direction from the first position.

[0087] Control unit 5 is programmed to generate a second winding feedback signal or an additional winding control signal in response to said third winding state. Control unit 5 is arranged to send said second winding feedback signal or the additional winding control signal to winding device 3. The second winding feedback signal or the additional winding control signal may, for example, comprise instructions to the winding actuator 6 to increase the winding speed on reel 4.

[0088] Additionally or alternatively, the control unit 5 can be programmed to generate a packaging control signal in response to the third winding state. The packaging control signal may comprise instructions for the packaging device 2 to decrease the output speed of the cord 9 at the packaging output 21.

[0089] Control unit 5 may be additionally arranged to determine the fourth winding state indicating that the Petition 870260043399, dated 08 / 05 / 2026, page 37 / 107 29 / 36 reel 4 is full. The control unit 5 may, for example, be arranged to determine the fourth winding state when an amount of cord 9 detected by the third sensor exceeds a predetermined threshold. For example, when the third sensor 33 is a load cell, said predetermined threshold may correspond to a maximum load weight of the reel. Consequently, the control unit may be arranged to determine an additional winding state indicating that reel 4 is absent when the third sensor 33 detects a weight below a predetermined threshold.

[0090] Control unit 5 is arranged to generate a second packaging control signal in response to the fourth winding state. Control unit 5 is arranged to send the second packaging control signal to packaging device 2. The second packaging control signal may, for example, comprise instructions to interrupt the transport of the cord 9 by the packaging actuator 26. Additionally, the first packaging control signal may comprise instructions to interrupt the sealing and loading of the medicine bags by the sealing station 22 and the loading station 23, respectively.

[0091] The control unit 5 may be additionally arranged to determine a fifth winding state indicative of a fault in the winding device 3. The winding device 3 may, for example, be arranged to generate a winding state signal indicative of an error or a fault in said winding device 3, such as a bobbin 4 not being present or a bobbin 4 not being correctly coupled to the coupling member.

[0092] Control unit 5 is programmed to generate a third winding feedback signal or a control signal. Petition 870260043399, dated 08 / 05 / 2026, page 38 / 107 30 / 36 additional winding in response to the fifth winding state. Control unit 5 is arranged to send said third winding feedback signal or additional winding control signal to winding device 3. Said third winding feedback signal or additional winding control signal comprises instructions to actuate reel 4 to rotate in a direction opposite to the winding direction during a predetermined time interval. In other words, the feedback signal comprises instructions to unwind reel 4. Unwinding the reel may allow the operator to check winding device 3 for errors without being obstructed by cord 9.

[0093] Control unit 5 may be additionally arranged to determine a first packaging state indicative of a defect in packaging device 2. Analogously to winding device 3, packaging device 2 may be arranged to generate a packaging state signal indicative of an error or defect in said packaging device 2. For example, sealing station 22 may be clogged or different medications may block an opening in loading station 23.

[0094] Control unit 5 is programmed to generate a first winding control signal in response to the first packaging state. Control unit 5 is arranged to send said first winding control signal to winding device 3. The first winding control signal may, for example, comprise instructions to interrupt the winding of the cord 9 around the reel 4 by winding device 3. Additionally, the control unit may be programmed to send a packaging feedback signal or an additional packaging control signal to said packaging device 2, which comprises instructions to interrupt the transport of the cord 9 through said device. Petition 870260043399, dated 08 / 05 / 2026, page 39 / 107 31 / 36 packaging device.

[0095] Exemplary steps of the method, according to the method of the present invention, will now be described using Figures 14.

[0096] Figure 1 shows assembly 1 in the situation where the amount of cord 9 produced at the packaging outlet 21 is greater than the amount of cord 9 wound around the reel 4. As a consequence, cord 9 decays between the packaging outlet 21 and the second guide roller 35. In other words, a loop or excess of cord 9 is formed along the cord path S. This loop of cord 9 is detected by the second sensor 32, which sends a winding status signal to the control unit 5 indicating the presence of cord 9 at said first sensor 32.

[0097] In the situation shown in Figure 1, cord 9 was correctly coupled to reel 4. Thus, the part of cord 9 that passes through the dancing roller 36 displaces said dancing roller 36 in the opposite direction from its first position. Consequently, the first sensor 31 does not detect the dancing roller 36 in the first position and sends a winding status signal to the control unit 5 indicating the absence of the first dancing roller 36 in the first position.

[0098] Control unit 5 can now determine that winding device 3 is in the third winding state, indicating that the winding speed on the reel is less than an output speed at the packaging output 21. In response, control unit 5 generates the second winding feedback signal. Consequently, control unit 5 sends instructions to winding actuator 6 to increase the winding speed. Alternatively, control unit 5 can send instructions to packaging actuator 26 to reduce the Petition 870260043399, dated 08 / 05 / 2026, page 40 / 107 32 / 36 conveying speed of the cord through the packaging device 2.

[0099] In an alternative configuration of control unit 5, Figure 1 may represent a normal operating condition of assembly 1. In this case, the loop in the cord path S at the second sensor is intended. In this alternative configuration of control unit 5, the control unit would detect the second winding state, indicative of a winding speed on reel 4 that is greater than an exit speed of cord 9 at the packaging outlet 21, when the second sensor 32 detects the absence of cord 9 at the second sensor 32. Consequently, the control unit could detect the third winding state, indicative of a winding speed on reel 4 that is less than an exit speed of cord 9 at the packaging outlet 21, when the first sensor 31 detects the presence of the dancing roller 36 in the first position.

[0100] Figure 2 shows assembly 1 in the situation where reel 4 is full. The third sensor 33 sends a winding status signal to the control unit 5, indicating the amount of cord 9 on reel 4 that exceeds the predetermined threshold. Consequently, the control unit 5 detects the fourth winding status. In response, the control unit 5 generates the second packaging control signal. Consequently, the control unit 5 sends instructions to the packaging actuator 26 of the packaging device 2 to cease the transport of cord 9 by said packaging device 2. Additionally, the control unit 5 may send a winding feedback signal or an additional winding control signal to the winding device 3 to cease the winding of cord 9 around reel 4.

[0101] Figure 3 shows setup 1 in the situation where cord 9 was not connected to reel 4. The dancing roller 36 was propelled into the first position by its inclination. Consequently, the first Petition 870260043399, dated 08 / 05 / 2026, page 41 / 107 33 / 36 sensor 31 detects the presence of the dancing roller 36 in said first position and sends a winding status signal to the control unit 5 indicating the same.

[0102] The second sensor 32 does not detect a cord loop 9 at the location of said second sensor 32. Consequently, the second sensor 32 sends a winding status signal to the control unit 5, indicating the absence of cord 9 at said second sensor 32.

[0103] Consequently, control unit 5 detects the first winding state, indicative of an error in the cord transport between packaging device 2 and winding device 3. Control unit 5 subsequently generates the first packaging control signal. Consequently, control unit 5 sends instructions to packaging device 2 to stop the cord transport by packaging actuator 26. Control unit 5 may additionally be arranged to send instructions to winding device 3 to stop the rotation of winding actuator 6.

[0104] Figure 4 shows assembly 1 in the situation where the packaging process in packaging device 2 is interrupted. In particular, the transport of cord 9 through packaging device 2 has been interrupted. Consequently, no cord length 9 is produced at packaging outlet 21.

[0105] The winding device 3 still winds the cord 9 around the reel 4. As a consequence, the cord 9 is gradually tensioned between the packaging outlet 21 and the winding device 3. Said tension is partially compensated by the dancing roller 36, which is displaced towards the second position of the same.

[0106] Packaging device 2 sends an initial packaging status signal to control unit 5 indicating an error or a Petition 870260043399, dated 08 / 05 / 2026, page 42 / 107 34 / 36 defect in said packaging device 2. Consequently, the control unit 5 detects the first packaging state and generates instructions for the winding device 3 to stop winding the cord 9 around the reel 4.

[0107] In an alternative configuration of control unit 5, Figure 4 may represent an operating condition of assembly 1 in which cord 9 is wound around reel 4 at a winding speed that is greater than an exit speed of cord 9 at the packaging exit 21. In this configuration of control unit 5, the cord path S in normal operation would comprise a loop at the second sensor 32, as shown in Figure 1.

[0108] In the alternative configuration of control unit 5, control unit 5 would receive a winding status signal from the second sensor 32 indicating that the cord 9 is absent from the loop location in the cord path S. Control unit 5 would receive a winding status from the first sensor 31 indicating that the dancing roller 36 is not in the first position. Consequently, control unit 5 would detect the second winding status, indicating a winding speed on reel 4 that is greater than the cord 9 output speed at the packaging output 21. In this way, control unit 5 would generate the first winding feedback signal or the additional winding control signal and send instructions to the winding actuator 6 to decrease the winding speed.

[0109] As shown in Figure 1-4, the control unit 5 comprises a computer-readable medium 52. The computer-readable medium 52 is non-transient or tangible, for example, a physical data carrier such as a hard disk, a USB drive, RAM memory or the like. Said computer-readable medium 52 comprises instructions for Petition 870260043399, dated 08 / 05 / 2026, page 43 / 107 35 / 36 process one or more winding status signals and / or one or more packaging status signals and, in response, generate the respective one or more winding control signals and / or one or more packaging control signals. The control unit further comprises a processing unit 51 for executing said instructions.

[0110] The present invention further relates to a computer-readable means having computer-executable instructions adapted to cause the control unit 5 to execute the steps of the method as described above.

[0111] It should be understood that the above description is included to illustrate the operation of preferred embodiments and is not intended to limit the scope of the invention. From the above discussion, many variations will be evident to a person skilled in the art that would still fall within the scope of the present invention. List of Numerical References: assembly, packaging device, packaging outlet, sealing station, loading station, packaging unit, winding device, coupling member. 300 drive shaft 301 came 302 retaining member first sensor or dancing roller sensor second sensor or path sensor Petition 870260043399, dated 08 / 05 / 2026, page 44 / 107 36 / 36 third sensor or spool sensor first guide roller second guide roller dancer roller spool spool hub support surface key track clamp flange control unit processor computer-readable medium winding drive cord central geometric axis clamp geometric axis cord trajectory Petition 870260043399, dated 08 / 05 / 2026, page 45 / 107

Claims

1 / 9 Claims 1. ASSEMBLY (1) FOR HANDLING A CORD (9) OF CONSECUTIVE MEDICINE BAGS, wherein the assembly (1) is characterized by comprising a packaging device (2) for packaging distinct medicines in the respective medicine bags of the cord (9), a winding device (3) for receiving the cord (9) from the packaging device (2) and winding the cord (9) onto a reel (4), and a control unit (5) that is operationally connected to the packaging device (2) and to the winding device (3), wherein the control unit (5) is arranged to: - receive one or more packaging status signals (2) from the packaging device and send one or more winding control signals to the winding device (3) in response to one or more packaging status signals;and / or - receive one or more winding status signals from the winding device (3) and send one or more packaging control signals to the packaging device (2) in response to one or more winding status signals; and the control unit (5) is further arranged to: - determine a winding status based on one or more winding status signals, which are indicative of one or more of the following: - an error in the transport of the cord (9) between the packaging device (2) and the winding device (3); - a difference between a cord exit speed at a packaging output (21) of the packaging device (2) and a cord winding speed (9) on the reel; and - a defect of the winding device (3).

2. ASSEMBLY (1), according to claim 1, Petition 870260043399, dated 08 / 05 / 2026, page 46 / 107 2 / 9 characterized by the control unit (5) being arranged to determine a winding state based on one or more winding state signals, which are indicative of: - the reel (4) being full.

3. ASSEMBLY (1), according to claim 2, characterized in that the control unit (5) is programmed to generate, in response to the detected winding state, a packaging control signal comprising one or more of the following instructions: - interrupt the transport of the cord (9) by the packaging device (2); - increase the exit speed of the cord at the packaging outlet (21); and - decrease the exit speed of the cord (9) at the packaging outlet (21).

4. ASSEMBLY (1), according to claim 3, characterized in that the control unit (5) is programmed to generate, in response to the detected winding state, a winding feedback signal to be sent back to the winding device (3), wherein the winding feedback signal comprises one or more of the following instructions: - interrupting the winding of the cord (9) by the winding device (3); - increasing the winding speed of the cord on the reel (4); - decreasing the winding speed of the cord (9) on the reel (4); and - reversing a winding direction of the reel (4).

5. ASSEMBLY (1), according to any one of claims 2 to 4, characterized by the winding device (3) Petition 870260043399, dated 08 / 05 / 2026, page 47 / 107 3 / 9 comprising one or more sensors (31, 32, 33) that are operationally connected to the control unit (5) to detect the presence or absence of a cord (9) of consecutive medicine bags.

6. ASSEMBLY (1), according to claim 5, characterized in that the winding device (3) comprises a dancing roller (36) that defines at least part of the cord path (S) between the packaging outlet (21) and the reel (4), wherein the dancing roller (36) is movable between a first position and a second position, wherein the dancing roller (36) is inclined towards the first position, wherein the dancing roller (36) is arranged to be displaced towards the second position under the influence of the passing cord (9), and wherein one or more sensors (31, 32, 33) comprise a dancing roller sensor (31) that is arranged to detect a presence of the dancing roller (36) in at least one of the first and second positions.

7. ASSEMBLY (1), according to any one of claims 5 to 6, characterized in that one or more sensors (31, 32, 33) comprise one or more of: a path sensor (32) that is arranged to detect a presence or absence of the cord (9) along a desired cord path (S), a path sensor (32) that is arranged to detect a presence or absence of a loop of the cord (9) outside of a desired cord path (S), a reel sensor (33) that is arranged to detect a quantity of the cord (9) of consecutive medicine bags wound around the reel (4), and a winding actuator (6) to drive the reel (4) to rotate and a torque sensor to measure a torque of the winding actuator (6).

8. ASSEMBLY (1), according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the control unit (5) is arranged to determine a packaging state, based on one or more signs of Petition 870260043399, dated 08 / 05 / 2026, page 48 / 107 4 / 9 packaging state, which is indicative of one or more of: - a sealing unit (22) of the packaging device (2) being open; - an error in the transport of the cord (9) between the packaging device (2) and the winding device (3); - a difference between a cord exit speed at a packaging exit (21) of the packaging device (2) and a cord winding speed (9) on the reel; - the reel (4) being full; and - a defect of the packaging device (2).

9. ASSEMBLY (1), according to claim 8, characterized in that the control unit (5) is programmed to generate, in response to the detected packaging state, a winding control signal comprising one or more of the following instructions: - interrupting the winding of the cord (9) by the winding device (3); - increasing the winding speed of the cord on the reel; - decreasing the winding speed of the cord (9) on the reel (4); and - reversing a winding direction of the reel (4).

10. ASSEMBLY (1), according to claim 9, characterized in that the control unit (5) is additionally programmed to generate, in response to the detected packaging state, a packaging feedback signal to be sent back to the packaging device (2), wherein the packaging feedback signal comprises one or more of the following instructions: - interrupt the transport of the cord (9) by the packaging device (2); Petition 870260043399, dated 08 / 05 / 2026, page 49 / 107 5 / 9 - increase the exit speed of the cord at the packaging outlet (21); and - decrease the exit speed of the cord (9) at the packaging outlet (21).

11. ASSEMBLY (1), according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the winding device (3) comprises a winding actuator (6) for actuating the reel (4) to rotate in the winding direction to wind the cord (9) around the reel (4), and / or in that the packaging device (2) comprises a packaging actuator (26) for transporting the cord (9) through the packaging device (2).

12. ASSEMBLY (1), according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the control unit (5) comprises a non-transient computer-readable means (52) comprising instructions for processing one or more winding status signals and / or one or more packing status signals and, in response, generating the respective one or more winding control signals and / or one or more packing control signals, and a processing unit (51) for executing the instructions.

13. METHOD FOR HANDLING A CORD (9) OF CONSECUTIVE MEDICINE BAGS, using the assembly (1) as defined in any of claims 1 to 12, wherein the method is characterized by comprising the steps of: - receiving one or more package status signals (2) from the packaging device and sending one or more winding control signals to the winding device (3) in response to one or more package status signals; and / or - receiving one or more winding status signals from the winding device (3) and sending one or more control signals to Petition 870260043399, dated 08 / 05 / 2026, page.50 / 107 6 / 9 packaging for the packaging device (2) in response to one or more winding status signals; and the method further comprises the step of: - determining a winding status based on one or more winding status signals, which are indicative of one or more of: - an error in the transport of the cord (9) between the packaging device (2) and the winding device (3); - a difference between a cord exit speed at a packaging exit (21) of the packaging device (2) and a cord winding speed (9) on the reel; and - a defect of the winding device (3).

14. METHOD, according to claim 13, characterized by further comprising the step of determining a winding state, based on one or more winding state signals, which are indicative of: - the spool (4) being full.

15. METHOD, according to claim 14, characterized by further comprising the step of generating, in response to the detected winding state, a packaging control signal comprising one or more of the following instructions: - interrupting the transport of the cord (9) by the packaging device (2); - increasing the exit speed of the cord at the packaging outlet (21); and - decreasing the exit speed of the cord (9) at the packaging outlet (21).

16. METHOD, according to claim 15, characterized by comprising one or more of: Petition 870260043399, dated 08 / 05 / 2026, page 51 / 107 7 / 9 interrupting the transport of the cord (9) by the packaging device (2) in response to a winding state indicative of an error in the transport of the cord between the packaging outlet (21) and the reel (4); increasing the output speed of the cord (9) at a packaging outlet (21) of the packaging device (2) in response to a winding state indicative of a winding speed on the reel (4) that is greater than the output speed of the cord (9); decreasing the output speed of the cord (9) at a packaging outlet (21) of the packaging device (2) in response to a winding state indicative of a winding speed on the reel (4) that is less than the output speed of the cord (9); and interrupt the transport of the cord (9) by the packaging device (2) in response to the reel (4) being full.

17. METHOD, according to any one of claims 15 to 16, wherein the method is characterized by further comprising the steps of generating, in response to the detected winding state, a winding feedback signal and sending the winding feedback signal to the winding device (3), wherein the winding feedback signal comprises one or more of the following instructions: - interrupting the winding of the cord (9) by the winding device (3); - increasing the winding speed of the cord on the reel (4); - decreasing the winding speed of the cord (9) on the reel (4); and - reversing a winding direction of the reel (4).

18. METHOD, according to claim 17, characterized by comprising one or more of: Petition 870260043399, dated 08 / 05 / 2026, page 52 / 107 8 / 9 decreasing a winding speed on the reel (4) in response to a winding state indicating that the winding speed on the reel (4) is greater than an exit speed of the cord (9) at a packaging outlet (21) of the packaging device (2), increasing a winding speed on the reel (4) in response to a winding state indicating that the winding speed on the reel (4) is less than an exit speed of the cord (9) at a packaging outlet (21) of the packaging device (2), rotating the reel (4) in a direction opposite to the winding direction during a predetermined time interval in response to a defect of the winding device (3).

19. METHOD, according to any one of claims 13 to 18, characterized by comprising the step of determining a packaging state, based on one or more packaging state signals, which are indicative of one or more of the following: - a sealing unit (22) of the packaging device (2) that is open; - an error in the transport of the cord (9) between the packaging device (2) and the winding device (3); - a difference between a cord exit speed at a packaging exit (21) of the packaging device (2) and a cord winding speed (9) on the reel; - the reel (4) being full; and - a defect of the packaging device (2).

20. METHOD, according to claim 19, characterized by further comprising generating, in response to the detected packaging state, a winding control signal comprising one or more of the following instructions: Petition 870260043399, dated 08 / 05 / 2026, page 53 / 107 9 / 9 - interrupting the winding of the cord (9) by the winding device (3); - increasing the winding speed of the cord on the reel; - decreasing the winding speed of the cord (9) on the reel (4); and - reversing a winding direction of the reel (4).

21. NON-TRANSIENT COMPUTER-READABLE STORAGE MEDIUM (52), characterized by retaining instructions that, when executed by a processor (51), cause an assembly, as defined in any one of claims 1 to 12, to perform the steps of the method, as defined in any one of claims 13 to 20. Petition 870260043399, dated 08 / 05 / 2026, p. 54 / 107

Images