Medicament supply device

Abstract

The medicine supply device of the present application includes: a medicine supply unit that supplies medicine to a medicine handover position; a downstream-side conveyance unit that conveys a first medicine packaging paper that has been previously folded in half in the longitudinal direction so that it receives medicine at the medicine handover position; an upstream-side conveyance unit that conveys a second medicine packaging paper that has been previously folded in half in the longitudinal direction to the first medicine packaging paper; and a connection portion that connects a downstream end portion of the second medicine packaging paper to the first medicine packaging paper.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a pharmaceutical supply device. Background Technology

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a packaging paper connecting device that connects the end portion of an old packaging paper (pre-folded along its long side) to the beginning portion of a new packaging paper when replacing the old packaging paper with a pharmaceutical packaging paper. The device involves a worker manually overlapping the end portion of the old packaging paper with the beginning portion of the new packaging paper, positioning the overlapping area in a designated location. By connecting the overlapping area, the end portion of the old packaging paper is thus connected to the beginning portion of the new packaging paper.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent No. 5577526 Summary of the Invention

[0006] The problem the invention aims to solve

[0007] In the packaging paper connecting device of Patent Document 1, the packaging paper is replaced manually by a worker. Furthermore, the packaging of the medication is stopped and medication is not supplied during the replacement of the packaging paper. Therefore, for example, if the time required for packaging paper replacement is longer due to the worker's unfamiliarity with the procedure, the period without medication supply will be longer, and consequently, the patient's waiting time will be longer.

[0008] The purpose of this invention is to reduce the time required for changing packaging paper in a pharmaceutical supply device.

[0009] Solution to the problem

[0010] The drug supply apparatus disclosed herein comprises: a drug supply unit that supplies a drug to a drug transfer position; a downstream conveying unit that conveys a first drug packaging paper, which has been pre-folded along its long side, to receive the drug at the drug transfer position; an upstream conveying unit that conveys a second drug packaging paper, which has been pre-folded along its long side, to the first drug packaging paper; and a connecting portion that connects the downstream end of the second drug packaging paper to the first drug packaging paper.

[0011] Invention Effects

[0012] According to the pharmaceutical supply device disclosed herein, the time required for changing packaging paper can be reduced. Attached Figure Description

[0013] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a pharmaceutical supply device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0014] Figure 2 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the drug supply device.

[0015] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram showing a portion of the conveying section.

[0016] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 A magnified view of a portion of the image.

[0017] Figure 5 It means Figure 4 The first image is a side view of the medicine packaging paper.

[0018] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram showing the state of the first medicine packaging paper being cut.

[0019] Figure 7 It means Figure 6 The first image is a side view of the medicine packaging paper.

[0020] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram showing the state of the moving part.

[0021] Figure 9 It means Figure 8 The first and second medicine packaging paper are shown in the side view diagram.

[0022] Figure 10 It is a longitudinal section view of the area surrounding the guide component.

[0023] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram showing the state of the second pharmaceutical packaging paper being transported.

[0024] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram showing the state in which the first medicine packaging paper and the second medicine packaging paper are connected.

[0025] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram showing the state of the second pharmaceutical packaging paper being transported.

[0026] Figure 14 This is a diagram showing a variation of a pair of rollers. Detailed Implementation

[0027] Hereinafter, embodiments of the drug supply device of this disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, as follows... Figure 1As indicated by the arrow, the side where the operating section 11 is located is designated as the front of the medicine supply device 1, and the opposite side is designated as the rear of the medicine supply device 1. Furthermore, the left and right sides when viewed from the front of the medicine supply device 1 are designated as the left and right sides of the medicine supply device 1. Additionally, the side furthest from the surface where the medicine supply device 1 is located is designated as the upper part of the medicine supply device 1, and the opposite side is designated as the lower part of the medicine supply device 1.

[0028] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing an example of a medicine supply device 1. The medicine supply device 1 has a first layer 10 and a second layer 20.

[0029] The first layer 10 includes an operation unit 11 and a take-out unit 12. Additionally, the first layer 10 includes an input unit (not shown).

[0030] The operation unit 11 is a device operated by a staff member, and includes, for example, a display and operation buttons. Various information is input into the drug supply device 1 by the staff member operating the operation unit 11.

[0031] The dispensed medicine in the medicine supply device 1 is taken out from the take-out section 12. The take-out section 12 has an opening through which the operator takes out the medicine.

[0032] An input unit is an input device that receives various information from external devices. For example, an input unit connects to a personal computer, from which information such as prescriptions issued by a medical institution can be input.

[0033] In addition, such as Figure 2 As shown, the drug supply device 1 includes a control unit (not shown) that provides unified control over the drug supply unit 13, the packaging unit 14, and the drug supply device 1. The drug supply unit 13 supplies the drug to the drug transfer position Pr. The drug supply unit 13 includes multiple shelf compartments 13a and hoppers 13b.

[0034] In the second-layer section, multiple shelves 13a are distributed to accommodate multiple boxes C. The medicine supply device 1 has 20 shelves 13a. The multiple shelves 13a are arranged in a manner that 5 layers are arranged vertically and 4 columns are arranged horizontally. In addition, the number and arrangement of shelves 13a in the second-layer section 20 are not limited to the number and arrangement in this embodiment; the number of vertical layers and / or the number of horizontal columns may be more or less than those described above.

[0035] In each of the multiple shelf compartments 13a, multiple boxes C are housed on both sides of the shelf compartment 13a in the left-right direction and in the front-back direction. Each box C contains multiple doses of medicine. Each of the multiple boxes C is configured to dispense medicine one dose at a time.

[0036] The medicine discharged from box C falls through passage W and is directed to the first layer 10. Passage W is arranged such that multiple shelf compartments 13a pass through it in the vertical direction.

[0037] The hopper 13b receives the medicine being discharged to the first layer 10 and discharges the received medicine from the outlet 13c to the medicine transfer position Pr on the packaging unit 14. The outlet 13c is located approximately in the center of the hopper 13b.

[0038] Packaging unit 14 packages the medicine discharged from hopper 13b. Packaging unit 14 includes conveyor 30, printer 15 and sealing device 16.

[0039] The conveying unit 30 conveys strips of packaging paper used for packaging pharmaceuticals. Details of the conveying unit 30 will be described later.

[0040] Printer 15 is a printing press that prints, for example, the patient's name, the name of the medicine supplied to the packaging paper, and the date and time of administration, on the surface of the packaging paper conveyed by the conveying unit 30.

[0041] The sealing device 16 is a device for sealing the packaging paper containing the medicine.

[0042] The packaging paper containing the medicine is cut at a predetermined time and conveyed to the take-out section 12 by the conveying section 30 after the direction is reversed.

[0043] Next, the conveyor section 30 will be described. For example... Figure 3 As shown, the conveying unit 30 includes a packaging paper holding unit 31, an upstream conveying unit 32, a downstream conveying unit 33, a holding member 34, a cutting part 35, a platform part 36, a guiding member 37, and a connecting part 38. The dashed arrow in the figure indicates the conveying direction D1 of the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1.

[0044] The packaging paper holding section 31 includes a first packaging paper holding section 31a and a second packaging paper holding section 31b. The first packaging paper holding section 31a rotatably holds a roll body M1, which is a batch package of a strip of first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1 that has been pre-folded along its long side. The second packaging paper holding section 31b rotatably holds a roll body M2, which is a batch package of a strip of second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2 that has been pre-folded along its long side. Alternatively, the batch packages of the first and second pharmaceutical packaging papers PP1 and PP2 can also be formed by folding the first and second pharmaceutical packaging papers PP1 and PP2.

[0045] Furthermore, the functions of the first packaging paper holding section 31a and the second packaging paper holding section 31b can be interchanged. That is, the first packaging paper holding section 31a can hold the roll body M2, and the second packaging paper holding section 31b can hold the roll body M1. In this case, the pair of rollers 32b described later clamps and conveys the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2, while the other pair of rollers 32d guides it without clamping the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1.

[0046] The upstream conveying unit 32 includes an upstream guiding component 32a, a pair of rollers 32b, another upstream guiding component 32c, another pair of rollers 32d, and a moving component 32e.

[0047] The upstream guide member 32a guides the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1, which is successively fed out from the first packaging paper holding part 31a, along the conveying direction D1. The upstream guide member 32a is a plate-shaped component sandwiched between the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1. An enlarged view and a side view of the area surrounding the upstream conveying unit 32 and the holding member 34 are shown. Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the upstream guide member 32a is configured such that its side, which overlaps with the ridge line R1 of the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1, is arranged along the conveying direction D1.

[0048] A pair of rollers 32b guides the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1 without clamping it. The pair of rollers 32b are positioned upstream of the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1, above the upstream guide member 32a. The pair of rollers 32b are cylindrical. The pair of rollers 32b includes a drive roller 32b1 and a driven roller 32b2.

[0049] The drive roller 32b1 is configured to rotate by means of a drive device such as a motor (not shown). The drive roller 32b1 is configured such that its axis of rotation is parallel to the surface of the upstream guide member 32a and orthogonal to the conveying direction D1 of the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1.

[0050] Furthermore, the drive roller 32b1 is configured to be able to approach the driven roller 32b2 and be in the conveying position Pm1, or to move away from the driven roller 32b2 and be in the non-conveying position Pm2. When the drive roller 32b1 is in the conveying position Pm1, a pair of rollers 32b can clamp the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1 or the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2 between the pair of rollers 32b and convey it downstream.

[0051] The driven roller 32b2 is configured with its rotation axis tilted. That is, the driven roller 32b2 is configured such that the open end of the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1 is located downstream of the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1 compared to the end on the edge R1 side of the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1. Furthermore, the driven roller 32b2 has the function of contacting the side of the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1 to change its conveying direction D1 (see reference). Figure 3 ).

[0052] Another upstream guide member 32c is a plate-shaped component sandwiched between second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2, which is fed sequentially from the second packaging paper holding part 31b. While the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1 is being conveyed, the downstream end of the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2 is positioned on the other upstream guide member 32c.

[0053] Another upstream guide member 32c is configured such that its plate surface is parallel to that of the upstream guide member 32a, and its two sides are located on the same plane: the side that overlaps with the edge R2 of the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2, and the side that overlaps with the edge R1 of the upstream guide member 32a. The thickness of the other upstream guide member 32c is approximately the same as that of the upstream guide member 32a. As described later, when the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1 is replaced with the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2, the other upstream guide member 32c guides the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2.

[0054] Another pair of rollers 32d is positioned upstream of the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2, further upstream than the other upstream guide member 32c. The other pair of rollers 32d is stationary with the downstream end of the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2 located between these rollers. As described later, when the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1 is replaced with the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2, the other pair of rollers 32d clamps and conveys the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2.

[0055] The other pair of rollers 32d are cylindrical. The other pair of rollers 32d includes a drive roller 32d1 and a driven roller 32d2.

[0056] The drive roller 32d1 is configured to rotate by means of a drive device such as a motor (not shown). The drive roller 32d1 is configured such that its axis of rotation is parallel to the plate surface of another upstream guide member 32c and orthogonal to the conveying direction D1 of the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1.

[0057] Furthermore, the drive roller 32d1 is configured to be able to approach the driven roller 32d2 and be in the conveying position Pm1, or to move away from the driven roller 32d2 and be in the non-conveying position Pm2. When the drive roller 32d1 is in the conveying position Pm1, another pair of rollers 32d can clamp the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1 or the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2 between the other pair of rollers 32d and convey it downstream.

[0058] The driven roller 32d2 is configured with its rotation axis tilted. That is, the driven roller 32d2 is configured such that the open end of the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2 is located downstream of the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2 compared to the end on the edge R2 side. Furthermore, the driven roller 32d2 has the function of contacting the side of the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2 to change its conveying direction.

[0059] As described later, the moving part 32e is configured to move the upstream guide part 32a, a pair of rollers 32b, another upstream guide part 32c, and another pair of rollers 32d when the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1 is replaced with the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2. The upstream guide part 32a, the pair of rollers 32b, the other upstream guide part 32c, and the other pair of rollers 32d are arranged on the moving part 32e. Figure 4 The first guiding position Pd1 shown below and the positions to be referenced later. Figure 8 The second guide position Pd2 shown is slidably moved between them.

[0060] The first guide position Pd1 is the position of the moving part 32e such that, when the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1 is conveyed, a pair of rollers 32b guides it toward this position without clamping it, and the upstream guide part 32a guides the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1 toward this position. As described later, the second guide position Pd2 is the position of the moving part 32e such that, when the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1 is replaced with the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2, another pair of rollers 32d clamps the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2 and conveys it to this position, and another upstream guide part 32c guides the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2 toward this position. The position of the other upstream guide part 32c when the moving part 32e is in the second guide position Pd2 is the same as the position of the upstream guide part 32a when the moving part 32e is in the first guide position Pd1 (see reference). Figure 4 , 8 ).

[0061] Back Figure 3Continuing the explanation, the downstream conveying unit 33 transports the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1, guided by the upstream conveying unit 32, to the printer 15 and the sealing device 16. The downstream conveying unit 33 transports the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1 in a manner that allows it to receive the pharmaceutical at the pharmaceutical transfer position Pr.

[0062] The downstream conveying unit 33 includes a pair of downstream rollers 33a for clamping and conveying the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1, a plurality of rollers 33b for changing the conveying direction D1 of the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1, and a downstream guiding member 33c.

[0063] The downstream guide component 33c, which is plate-shaped and sandwiched between the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1, guides the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1 to the pharmaceutical transfer position Pr. The downstream guide component 33c is arranged with its plate surface orthogonal to the horizontal direction. The first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1 sandwiches the downstream guide component 33c with its open side facing upward. The first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1 is guided upward by the downstream guide component 33c and opens upward, thereby receiving the pharmaceutical discharged from the hopper 13b at the pharmaceutical transfer position Pr.

[0064] A retaining member 34 is positioned between the upstream conveying unit 32 and the downstream conveying unit 33. When the conveying section 30 conveys the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1, the retaining member 34 holds the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1. As described later, when the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1 is replaced with the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2, the retaining member 34 clamps and holds the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1. The retaining member 34 consists of a pair of plate members 34a and 34b. The pair of plate members 34a and 34b are arranged such that their surfaces are parallel to the surface of the upstream guide member 32a. Figure 4 As shown, the first plate component 34a is configured such that it is located at the clamping position Ps1, which clamps the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1 together with the second plate component 34b, or at the non-clamping position Ps2, which does not clamp the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1.

[0065] As described later, when the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1 is replaced with the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2, the cutting part 35 cuts the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1. The cutting part 35 has a blade for cutting the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1. The cutting part 35 cuts the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1 on a plane S orthogonal to the conveying direction D1 between the holding member 34 and the upstream conveying unit 32.

[0066] The platform 36 is disposed on the opposite side of the cutting section 35, separated by the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1. It has an opposing surface opposite to the side of the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1 and is in the shape of a cuboid.

[0067] like Figure 6As shown, the cutting portion 35 is configured such that it can approach the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1 and is located at a cutting position Pc1 where the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1 is cut, or at a non-cutting position Pc2 away from the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1. Similarly, the platform portion 36 is configured such that it can approach the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1 and is located at a contact position Pb1 where its opposing surface contacts the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1, or at a non-contact position Pb2 where its opposing surface is away from the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1. When the cutting portion 35 cuts the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1, the opposing surface of the platform portion 36 contacts the tip of the cutting portion 35. Furthermore, in Figure 7 The image shows a side view of the periphery of the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1 when it is cut.

[0068] like Figures 3-5 As shown, the guide member 37 is disposed between the holding member 34 and the upstream conveying unit 32. As described later, when the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1 is replaced with the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2, the guide member 37 guides the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2. Specifically, the guide member 37 is disposed between the upstream guide member 32a and the plane S. The guide member 37 is a plate-shaped component. The plate thickness of the guide member 37 is approximately the same as the plate thickness of the upstream guide member 32a and the other upstream guide member 32c.

[0069] When the guide component 37 is conveyed by the upstream conveying unit 32 and the downstream conveying unit 33, such as... Figure 5 As shown, the non-guided position Pg2 is located at a position that does not contact the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1. Additionally, as shown in the diagram, the state in which the moving part 32e has moved is indicated by... Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, when the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1 is replaced with the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2, the guide member 37 is located at a position that can guide the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2, namely the guide position Pg1. That is, the guide member 37 is configured to be movable between the guide position Pg1 and the non-guide position Pg2. The guide member 37 has an inclined portion 37a and a recess 37b.

[0070] The inclined portion 37a is the side portion of the guide member 37 that overlaps with the edge line R2 of the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2 when the guide member 37 guides it. It extends in a direction substantially parallel to the edge line R2 of the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2 being guided by the guide member 37. Specifically, the inclined portion 37a has a shape that moves closer to the edge line R2 from the open side of the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2 towards the upstream side as it moves towards the downstream side. The inclined portion 37a is planar. Alternatively, the inclined portion 37a can have a triangular cross-section or an arc-shaped cross-section.

[0071] The recess 37b is a side recessed portion on the downstream side of the guide member 37 in the general conveying direction D1.

[0072] When viewed from the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1, the connecting portion 38 is located on the same side as the cutting portion 35, has an opposing surface opposite to the side surface of the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1, and is cuboid in shape. As described later, when the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1 is replaced with the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2, the connecting portion 38 connects the downstream end of the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2 to the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1. The connecting portion 38 includes a pressing portion 38a for pressing the connecting member T that connects the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1 and the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2. The pressing portion 38a is an opposing surface opposite to the side surface of the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1.

[0073] The connecting component T is, for example, an adhesive tape. With the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2 positioned on another upstream guide member 32c, the connecting component T is attached to the downstream end of the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2, with the connecting component T protruding from the downstream end. The connecting component T is attached to both outer surfaces of the folded second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2. Alternatively, the connecting component T can also be an adhesive coated on the inner side of the downstream end of the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2.

[0074] The connecting part 38 is able to be located in the first pressing position Po1 (see reference). Figure 12 ), located at the second press position Po2 (refer to) Figure 6 ), or located in the non-pressed position Po3 (see reference) Figure 4 It is composed of the following methods.

[0075] As described later, the first pressing position Po1 of the connecting part 38 (refer to...) Figure 12 When connecting the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1 and the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2, the pressing part 38a and the platform part 36 located at the contact position Pb1 together clamp and press the positions of the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1, the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2 and the connecting part T.

[0076] As described later, the second pressing position Po2 of the connecting part 38 (refer to...) Figure 6 When the cutting part 35 cuts the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1, the pressing part 38a and the platform part 36 located at the contact position Pb1 together hold the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1 at a position upstream of the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1, which is closer to the plane S.

[0077] The non-pressing position Po3 of the connecting part 38 is the position where the connecting part 38 leaves the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1 without pressing the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1.

[0078] Next, the operation of the medicine supply device 1 when the first medicine packaging paper PP1 is replaced with the second medicine packaging paper PP2 will be explained.

[0079] like Figures 3-5 As shown, when the conveying section 30 conveys the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1, the drive roller 32b1 is in the non-conveyor position Pm2, the first plate member 34a of the holding member 34 is in the non-clamping position Ps2, and the cutting section 35 is in the non-cutting position Pc2. Additionally, the platform section 36 is in the non-contact position Pb2, the connecting section 38 is in the non-pressing position Po3, and the guiding member 37 is in the non-guiding position Pg2. Furthermore, the upstream guiding member 32a guides the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1 in a state of being clamped by the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1.

[0080] When the control unit detects that the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1 has decreased in quantity, it stops the operation of the pharmaceutical supply unit 13 and also stops the operation of the pair of downstream side rollers 33a. The control unit detects the decrease in the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1 based on detection signals, such as those from a sensor that detects the outer diameter of the winding body M1 (e.g., an infrared sensor) or a sensor that detects the tension of the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1. The sensor that detects the tension of the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1 is, for example, a load sensor that detects the force acting on the rollers 33b of the downstream side conveying unit 33. If the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1 has decreased in quantity, the tension of the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1 will increase.

[0081] Alternatively, the control unit can be configured such that when the tension of the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1 increases, the roller 33b moves, and the control unit detects that the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1 has decreased based on the detection signal from the position sensor that detects the position of the roller 33b.

[0082] Next, as Figure 6 As shown, the control unit moves the first plate member 34a to the clamping position Ps1. Here, the holding member 34 clamps and holds the first medicine packaging paper PP1. Furthermore, the control unit moves the platform member 36 to the contact position Pb1 and the connecting member 38 to the second pressing position Po2. Here, the platform member 36 and the connecting member 38 clamp the first medicine packaging paper PP1 between the holding member 34 and the upstream conveying unit 32, thus holding it in place.

[0083] Furthermore, the control unit cuts the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1 by positioning the cutting unit 35 in the cutting position Pc1 and moving it in a direction orthogonal to the conveying direction D1. Figure 7The solid line L along plane S shows the ends of the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1 formed by cutting it (the upstream end held by the holding member 34 and the downstream end held by the platform portion 36 and the connecting portion 38). The portion of the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1 on the upstream side of plane S is held by the platform portion 36 and the connecting portion 38, and the portion on the downstream side of plane S is held by the holding member 34. Therefore, the cutting portion 35 can reliably cut the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1 straight without causing it to misalign.

[0084] After the cutting part 35 finishes cutting, the control part moves the cutting part 35 to the non-cutting position Pc2, moves the connecting part 38 to the non-pressing position Po3, and moves the table part 36 to the non-contact position Pb2.

[0085] Next, the control unit moves the drive roller 32d1 of the other pair of rollers 32d so that the other pair of rollers 32d clamps the downstream end of the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2. In this state, as... Figure 8 , Figure 9 As shown, the control unit moves the moving member 32e from the first guide position Pd1 to the second guide position Pd2. Consequently, the other upstream guide member 32c is positioned where the upstream guide member 32a was before the moving member 32e moved. Furthermore, the downstream end of the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2 is opposite to the upstream end of the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1.

[0086] Next, the control unit moves the guide member 37 to the guide position Pg1. Here, the guide member 37 is opposite to the upstream guide member 32a. Then, the control unit rotates the drive roller 32d1 to convey the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2.

[0087] like Figure 9 As shown, the driven roller 32d2 is arranged at an angle. Specifically, the driven roller 32d2 is arranged such that the open end of the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2 is located downstream of the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2 than the end on the edge R2 side of the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2. Therefore, the other pair of rollers 32d conveys the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2 in a direction inclined relative to the conveying direction D1 of the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1.

[0088] Specifically, another pair of rollers 32d conveys the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2 in such a manner that the open side of the downstream end of the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2 approaches the edge R1 side of the upstream end of the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1. When the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2 is conveyed to the guide member 37, it is guided by the guide member 37. Figure 9To explain the state shown, the guide member 37 guides the second medicine packaging paper PP2 in such a way that as the second medicine packaging paper PP2 moves to the left, the left end of the second medicine packaging paper PP2 moves upward.

[0089] In other words, the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2 is guided by the inclined portion 37a of the guide member 37 in such a way that the closer the downstream end of the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2 is to the upstream end of the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1, the closer the open side of the downstream end of the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2 is to the edge R1 side of the upstream end of the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1. That is, the direction in which the inclined portion 35a guides the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2 is approximately the same as the direction in which the other roller 32d conveys the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2. Therefore, the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2 will not snag at the inclined portion 35a and will be smoothly conveyed and guided. Furthermore, by having a recess 37b in the guide member 37, contact between the connecting member T and the guide member 37 is suppressed.

[0090] Since the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2 is conveyed and guided as described above, when it is conveyed to the downstream end of the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1, the edge R2 of the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2 is located above the edge R1 of the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1. Furthermore, as shown in the longitudinal cross-sectional view around the guide member 37... Figure 10 As shown, the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2 expands in a manner that is more extensive than the thickness of the guide member 37. Therefore, as Figure 11 As shown, the downstream end of the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2 sandwiches the upstream end of the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1, and the edge R2 of the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2 overlaps with the edge R1 of the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1. In this way, the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2 is smoothly conveyed and guided in a manner that prevents the downstream end of the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2 from colliding with the upstream end of the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1.

[0091] At this time, the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1 is held by the retaining member 34. Therefore, even if the moving second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2 or the connecting member T comes into contact with the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1, the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1 can continue to be in the prescribed position without shifting downstream.

[0092] In this way, the upstream conveying unit 32 conveys the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2 such that the open side of the downstream end of the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2 approaches the edge R1 side of the upstream end of the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1. Furthermore, the upstream conveying unit 32 conveys the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2 toward the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1 such that the downstream end of the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2 sandwiches the upstream end of the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1, and the edge R2 of the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2 overlaps with the edge R1 of the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1. Therefore, when changing packaging paper, wrinkles in the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1 and the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2 can be suppressed, the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2 can be conveyed smoothly, and the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2 overlaps the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1.

[0093] Corresponding to the situation where the downstream end of the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2 has overlapped with the upstream end of the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1, the control unit stops the operation of the pair of rollers 32b. The control unit detects the situation where the downstream end of the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2 has overlapped with the upstream end of the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1 based on the detection signal of the position sensor (e.g., an infrared sensor) that detects the position of the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2.

[0094] Next, the control unit positions the guide member 37 in the non-guided position Pg2. Furthermore, as... Figure 12 As shown, the control unit positions the platform 36 in the contact position Pb1 and the connecting part 38 in the first pressing position Po1. Thus, by clamping and pressing the connecting member T with the platform 36 and the connecting part 38, the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1 and the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2 are connected.

[0095] Then, as Figure 13 As shown, the control unit positions the connecting part 38 in the non-pressing position Po3, the platform part 36 in the non-contact position Pb2, the first plate member 34a in the non-clamping position Ps2, and the drive roller 32d1 in the non-conveying position Pm2.

[0096] Furthermore, the control unit actuates a pair of downstream side rollers 33a, thereby conveying the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1 and the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2 connected to the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1. Thus, after the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1 is consumed, the packaging paper conveyed by the conveying unit 30 switches to the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2. In addition, since the downstream end of the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2 is sandwiched between the upstream end of the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1, the upstream end of the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2 will not snag at the downstream guide member 33c. Therefore, the switching to the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2 is completed smoothly.

[0097] In this way, the medicine supply device 1 automatically replaces the first medicine packaging paper PP1 with the second medicine packaging paper PP2. Therefore, the efficiency of the packaging paper replacement operation can be improved, thus reducing the time required. Furthermore, the winding body M2 is held by the second packaging paper holding part 31b, and the downstream end of the second medicine packaging paper PP2 is disposed on another upstream guide member 32c. Therefore, the control unit can deliver the second medicine packaging paper PP2 and connect it to the first medicine packaging paper PP1 based on the condition that the first medicine packaging paper PP1 has decreased, without waiting for the supply of the winding body M2 of the second medicine packaging paper PP2.

[0098] like Figure 12 As shown, even after switching to the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2, the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1 remains positioned on the upstream conveying unit 32 and is still held by the first packaging paper holding part 31a. Before the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2 decreases, the operator replaces the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1 located in the upstream conveying unit 32 and the first packaging paper holding part 31a with a new winding body M1 of the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1.

[0099] Alternatively, the medicine supply device 1 can also notify the staff that the packaging paper replacement is complete, for example, by displaying a message on a monitor or by sounding a buzzer. Based on this notification, the staff will then replace the packaging paper with a new roll M1.

[0100] Specifically, the worker removes the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1 from the first packaging paper holding section 31a, installs the new winding body M1, and then... Figure 13 As shown, the downstream end of the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1, which will be successively fed from the new roll body M1, is positioned at the upstream guide member 32a. Next, the operator attaches the connecting member T to the downstream end of the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1, with the connection exposed from the downstream end.

[0101] Furthermore, if the control unit detects a decrease in the amount of the second medicine packaging paper PP2 based on, for example, the detection signal from the position sensor described above, then, similar to the case where the first medicine packaging paper PP1 is automatically replaced with the second medicine packaging paper PP2, the second medicine packaging paper PP2 is automatically replaced with a new first medicine packaging paper PP1. After the control unit replaces the second medicine packaging paper PP2 with the new first medicine packaging paper PP1, the conveying unit 30... Figure 3 The state shown indicates the conveying of the new first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1.

[0102] This disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described herein. Various modifications to these embodiments, provided they do not depart from the spirit of this disclosure, are also included within its scope.

[0103] For example, the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1 and the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2 can also be joined by heat sealing. In this case, the connecting part 38 is configured to include a heater. Alternatively, the connecting part T may not be attached to the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2.

[0104] Alternatively, the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1 and the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2 can be connected without overlapping. Furthermore, the downstream end of the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2 can be connected to a portion other than the upstream end of the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1.

[0105] Furthermore, in a pair of rollers 32b and 32d, not only can the driven rollers 32b2 and 32d2 be arranged at an angle, but the drive rollers 32b1 and 32d1 can also be arranged at an angle similar to that of the driven rollers 32b2 and 32d2. Alternatively, the drive rollers 32b1 and 32d1 can be arranged at an angle instead of the driven rollers 32b2 and 32d2.

[0106] Alternatively, when replacing the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1 with the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2, the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2 can also be conveyed along the conveying direction D1. In this case, the driven rollers 32b2 and 32d2 can be configured such that their rotation axes are orthogonal to the conveying direction D1 without tilting.

[0107] In addition, such as Figure 14 As shown, the peripheral surface of the driven roller 132d2 can also be a conical surface TS, where the perimeter of the open side of the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2 is longer than the perimeter of the edge R2 side of the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2. The driven roller 132d2 is configured such that its rotation axis is orthogonal to the conveying direction D1 of the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1, and the conical surface TS is in contact with the side line of the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2. Through this conical surface TS, the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2 is conveyed such that the open side of the downstream end of the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2 approaches the edge R1 side of the upstream end of the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1. In addition, the peripheral surface of the driven roller 32b2 and the drive rollers 32b1 and 32d1 can also be a conical surface TS.

[0108] Alternatively, the conveying unit 30 may not include the second packaging paper holding part 31b, the other upstream guide part 32c, the other pair of rollers 32d, and the moving part 32e. In this case, when the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1 is replaced with the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2, after the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1 is cut, the control unit stops the operation of the conveying unit 30 while the cutting part 35 is in the non-cutting position Pc2, the connecting part 38 is moved to the non-pressing position Po3, and the table part 36 is moved to the non-contact position Pb2. At this time, the control unit can notify the operator to change the roll body by, for example, displaying a message on the screen.

[0109] Next, the operator removes the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1 from the first packaging paper holding part 31a and installs the winding body M2 of the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2. Furthermore, the operator positions the downstream end of the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2 at the upstream guide member 32a and attaches the connecting member T to the downstream end of the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2.

[0110] Next, the operator uses the operation unit 11 to input information indicating the completion of the winding assembly. The control unit then moves the guide member 37 to the guide position Pg1 and positions the drive roller 32b1 at the conveying position Pm1. Next, the control unit rotates the drive roller 32b1 to convey the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2. Thus, the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2 is conveyed and guided as described above and connected to the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1 via the connecting part 38. Then, as described above, the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1 is conveyed by the downstream conveying unit 33, thereby switching the first pharmaceutical packaging paper PP1 to the second pharmaceutical packaging paper PP2.

[0111] Alternatively, the medicine supply device 1 may not include the cutting section 35. In this case, the operator cuts the first medicine packaging paper PP1 manually, and during the cutting operation, the control unit stops the operation of the conveying section 30 that changes the packaging paper.

[0112] Alternatively, the medicine supply device 1 may not have a connecting part 38. In this case, the operator manually connects the first medicine packaging paper PP1 and the second medicine packaging paper PP2, and the control of the conveying part 30 for changing packaging paper is stopped during the connection operation.

[0113] The entire contents of the specification, drawings and abstract contained in Japanese Patent Application No. 2021-159486, filed on September 29, 2021, are incorporated herein by reference.

[0114] Industrial applicability

[0115] This invention can be widely applied to pharmaceutical supply devices.

[0116] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0117] 1. Pharmaceutical supply device

[0118] 13. Pharmaceutical Supply Unit

[0119] 30 Conveying Department

[0120] 31 Packaging paper holding section

[0121] 32 Upstream Conveying Unit

[0122] 32e Moving parts

[0123] 33 Downstream Conveying Unit

[0124] 35 Cutting Department

[0125] 37. Guiding components

[0126] 38 Connecting parts

[0127] 38a Pressing part

[0128] M1 roll body

[0129] M2 roll body

[0130] PP1 First Pharmaceutical Packaging Paper

[0131] PP2 Second Pharmaceutical Packaging Paper

[0132] Pr drug handover location

[0133] R1 The ridge line of the first pharmaceutical packaging paper

[0134] The ridges of the R2 second-stage pharmaceutical packaging paper

[0135] T-connecting components

[0136] TS cone

Claims

1. A pharmaceutical supply device, characterized in that, have: The drug supply unit supplies drugs to the drug handover location; The downstream conveying unit conveys the first pharmaceutical packaging paper in such a way that the strip of first pharmaceutical packaging paper, which has been pre-folded along the long side, receives the pharmaceutical at the pharmaceutical junction position; The upstream conveying unit conveys the second strip of medicine packaging paper, which has been pre-folded along its long side, to the first medicine packaging paper. A connecting portion that connects the downstream end of the second pharmaceutical packaging paper to the first pharmaceutical packaging paper; as well as The cutting section cuts the first medicine packaging paper. The connecting portion connects the downstream end of the second pharmaceutical packaging paper to the upstream end of the first pharmaceutical packaging paper, which is formed by the cutting portion. The upstream conveying unit conveys the second pharmaceutical packaging paper in such a manner that the downstream end of the second pharmaceutical packaging paper clamps the upstream end of the first pharmaceutical packaging paper, and the edge of the second pharmaceutical packaging paper overlaps with the edge of the first pharmaceutical packaging paper.

2. The drug supply device as claimed in claim 1, wherein, It also includes a packaging paper holding section that holds the bulk packaging of the second pharmaceutical packaging paper.

3. The pharmaceutical supply device as described in claim 2, wherein, The packaging paper holding section also holds the bulk packaging of the first pharmaceutical packaging paper.

4. The drug supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The connecting part includes a pressing part for pressing the connecting component, which connects the first medicine packaging paper and the second medicine packaging paper.

5. The pharmaceutical supply device as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The upstream conveying unit includes a moving component that moves the second pharmaceutical packaging paper such that the downstream end of the second pharmaceutical packaging paper is opposite to the upstream end of the first pharmaceutical packaging paper.

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