Sensor system, assembly, method and computer program product for detecting events during automatic dispensing of discrete medicaments

Abstract

The present invention relates to a sensor system, an assembly, a method and a computer program product for detecting events during an automatic dispensing process for dispensing discrete medication wherein the sensor system comprises a light emitter, a light receiver and a control unit wherein the light emitter forms a detection pair with the light receiver, the control unit is configured to receive an optical input signal from the optical receiver, where the control unit is further configured to operate in a dynamic mode in which the optical output of the optical transmitter is adjusted in response to the optical input values.

Description

Background Art

[0001] The present invention relates to a sensor system, assembly, method and computer program product for detecting events during the automated dispensing of discrete medications.

[0002] US10,173,830B1 discloses a system that contains a series of drug dispensing containers (also called 'feeder units' or 'tanks') for selectively dispensing a certain amount of solid drugs from one or more drug dispensing containers and for packaging the dispensed amount. Each drug dispensing container contains a certain amount of solid material specific to the corresponding drug dispensing container. Therefore, these drug dispensing containers can dispense a variety of solid materials together.

[0003] The medicament dispensing container includes an arrangement body having a plurality of passageways, wherein each passageway is precisely sized to accommodate the solid medicament in a single row.

[0004] In use, the drug dispensing container is docked to the holding device. When the drug dispensing container is properly docked to the holding device, the positioning post of the holding device passes through the detector opening to reach the drug dispensing container. The light source and light detector associated with the holding device are aligned with the drug dispensing container and form a detection pair to detect the process of the drug passing through the passage and the outlet. Summary of the invention

[0005] A disadvantage of the known system is that the medicament dispensing container and / or the holding device may become contaminated with dust or particles over time. The contamination may interfere with the transmission of the light beam from the light source to the corresponding light detector. If the medicament dispensing container and the holding device are not cleaned in time, the detection pair may produce erroneous detection results or may not detect anything at all.

[0006] Additionally, the characteristics of the light source and light detector may deviate slightly from their respective factory specifications, or the tolerances in the factory specifications may not be tight enough to meet the requirements of the intended application. This makes it difficult for the detection pair to work properly together.

[0007] Additionally, the light source may degrade in light output due to aging. At some point, the light output may be insufficient to properly detect the drug passing through the detection pair.

[0008] Finally, when contamination or damage (e.g., scratches) prevents the drug from being properly tested, decontamination is required. The drug dispensing container can be removed relatively easily for cleaning or repair with minimal downtime. In contrast, it can be much more difficult to remove the retaining device for cleaning. However, the pharmacist does not know which of the drug dispensing container and the retaining device is contaminated, or whether both are contaminated.

[0009] The object of the present invention is to provide a sensor system, an assembly, a method and a computer program product for detecting events in an automated dispensing process for dispensing discrete medications, wherein the reliability of the detection can be improved and / or contamination can be removed more effectively.

[0010] According to a first aspect, the present invention provides a sensor system for detecting events in an automatic dispensing process for dispensing discrete drugs, wherein the sensor system includes a light emitter for generating a light output, a light receiver for converting the light input into one or more light input signals indicating a light input value, and a control unit operatively connected to the light emitter and the light receiver, wherein the light emitter forms a detection pair with the light receiver, wherein the control unit is configured to receive the one or more light input signals from the light receiver, wherein the control unit is further configured to operate in a dynamic mode in which the light output of the light emitter is adjusted in response to the light input values.

[0011] The sensor system may be used in an assembly for detecting a dispensing event of a feeder unit docked to a feeder dock, as will be described in more detail later in this disclosure.

[0012] In the context of the present invention, a 'detection pair' is not limited to a combination of a single light emitter and a single light receiver. Alternatively, a light emitter may be part of an array of or include a plurality of light emitters, for example to form a light curtain. Similarly, a light receiver may be part of or include an array of a plurality of light receivers. As such, an array of light emitters and / or light receivers may be considered to be a light emitter and a light receiver of a detection pair.

[0013] By adjusting the light output, any negative effects of contamination between the light emitter and the light receiver of the detection pair, aging degradation of the light emitter, or slight changes in the characteristics of the light emitter and the light receiver of the detection pair can be at least partially compensated. In particular, the light output can be controlled so that the light input received by the corresponding light receiver is or remains within the optimal operating range or window of the light receiver. As a result, the detection pair can continue to reliably detect events in the automatic dispensing process.

[0014] In dynamic mode, the control unit is configured to increase the light output of the light emitter when the light input value decreases over time. Thus, even when the light beam between the light emitter and the light receiver of the detection pair is obstructed by contamination, the light receiver can still receive the increased light output in order to reliably detect the event. In addition, the light output of the light emitter can be used as an indicator of the degree of contamination of the sensor system, the feeder unit and / or the feeder docking piece; for example, the higher the light output, the higher the contamination. The increase in light output can be compared with a fixed value or a previously determined reference value (for example, a light output level that has been determined during a previous calibration of the sensor system).

[0015] In one embodiment, in the dynamic mode, the control unit is configured to increase the light output of the light transmitter when the light input value drops below an input threshold. The input threshold can be selected at a level within the optimal operating range or window of the light receiver (i.e., the range in which the light receiver is most sensitive to light).

[0016] Preferably, the input threshold is a predetermined input threshold stored in a memory.The input threshold may be selected by a pharmacist or another operator, or it may be based on factory specifications of the optical receiver.

[0017] The control unit is configured to switch between a dynamic mode and a calibration mode, wherein the input threshold is a calibration value determined during the calibration mode based on one or more of the light input values. Thus, the input threshold can be adjusted to best suit the conditions as measured during the calibration mode, for example taking into account changes in the light output (such as aging degradation) and / or any contamination between the light emitter and the light receiver of the detection pair.

[0018] In further embodiments, the input threshold is equal to or less than sixty percent of the maximum optical input signal of the optical receiver pair. By selecting the input threshold below sixty percent, it can be ensured that the optical receivers are properly triggered and / or activated by the received optical input.

[0019] In another embodiment, in the dynamic mode, the control unit is configured to store the light input values ​​continuously or at regular time intervals. By storing the light input values ​​continuously, any decrease in the light input values ​​can be detected in advance and / or accurately. Alternatively, storing the light input values ​​at regular time intervals can reduce the data consumed by storing the light input values. This can be, for example, at regularly scheduled times, after a certain usage cycle or other time intervals.

[0020] In another embodiment, in the dynamic mode, the control unit is configured to increase the light output of the light emitter to an output threshold. Preferably, the output threshold is equal to or less than ninety percent of the maximum output of the light emitter. When the output threshold has been reached, it can be assumed that the sensor system, the feeder unit and / or the feeder docking piece have been contaminated so badly that dispensing and detection cannot be continued in a reliable manner.

[0021] According to a second aspect, the present invention provides a component comprising a sensor system according to any of the previously discussed embodiments and a feeder docking piece for docking a feeder unit, wherein a light emitter and / or a light receiver are arranged in, on or at the feeder docking piece.

[0022] The assembly according to the second aspect of the invention comprises the sensor system according to the first aspect of the invention and therefore has the same technical advantages, which are not repeated in the following.

[0023] In one embodiment, the feeder unit comprises a dispensing mechanism for dispensing discrete medicaments one by one, wherein the feeder dock comprises a dispensing drive arranged to engage with the dispensing mechanism when the feeder unit is received at the feeder dock, wherein the control unit is operatively connected to the dispensing drive to operate the dispensing mechanism at dispensing time intervals, wherein in the dynamic mode, the control unit is configured to store light input values ​​of one or more light input signals received between the dispensing time intervals. Thus, the stored light input values ​​correspond to a light beam between a light emitter and a light receiver of the detection pair, which light beam is uninterrupted, or at least not interrupted or blocked by the discrete medicament at that time.

[0024] In another embodiment, the feeder unit has an at least partially transparent housing, wherein the light emitter and the light receiver are positioned so that when the feeder unit is received in the feeder docking piece, a light beam traveling between the light emitter and the light receiver passes through a transparent portion of the at least partially transparent housing at least once. The transparent portion may be contaminated by dust or particles of discrete medications passing through and leaving the feeder unit. By positioning the detection pair in such a way that the light beam passes through the transparent portion, the sensor system is enabled to not only detect the discrete medications, but also to obtain an indication of contamination of the feeder unit.

[0025] In another embodiment, the control unit is configured to switch between a dynamic mode and a calibration mode, wherein in the calibration mode, the control unit is configured to store one or more of the light input values ​​as calibration values ​​when the feeder unit leaves the feeder docking piece. When the feeder unit leaves the feeder docking piece, the light beam can be transmitted from the light emitter to the light receiver substantially uninterrupted. Therefore, the light input value measured during the calibration mode can be used as an indication of the light input value that the light receiver should measure when the transparent part of the feeder unit is clean.

[0026] In another embodiment, the control unit is configured to switch between a dynamic mode and a test mode, wherein in the test mode the control unit is configured to store one or more of the light input values ​​in a first case in which the feeder unit is docked at the feeder docking piece and to store one or more of the light input values ​​in a second case in which the feeder unit is removed from the feeder docking piece. The light input values ​​from the different cases can be compared automatically or by an operator to evaluate the condition of the feeder docking piece and the feeder unit. In particular, it can be determined whether removing the feeder unit has a positive impact on the light input values, which light input values ​​can be an indication that the feeder unit is contaminated. When the light input values ​​are more or less the same in both cases, any reduction in the light input values ​​during the dynamic mode may lead to a contamination of the feeder docking piece.

[0027] In another embodiment, the control unit is further configured to compare the one or more light input values ​​stored in the first case with the one or more light input values ​​stored in the second case.Thereby, the evaluation discussed above may be performed automatically.

[0028] In another embodiment, the control unit is further configured to determine, based on the comparison, whether one of the following conditions is true:

[0029] a) the light input value in one of the first case and the second case is different from the light input value in the other of the first case and the second case; or

[0030] b) For the first case and the second case, the light input values ​​are the same or within a predetermined tolerance of each other.The evaluation discussed above may again be performed automatically.

[0031] In another embodiment, the assembly includes an alarm device for notifying an operator, wherein the control unit is operatively connected to the alarm device to send a first notification to the operator via the alarm device when condition a) is true, and to send a second notification to the operator via the alarm device when condition b) is true. The operator can then take appropriate action, such as cleaning one or both of the feeder dock and the feeder unit. When only the feeder unit is contaminated, the feeder unit can be removed from the feeder dock without inspecting the feeder dock. Thus, the dispensing operation can continue with minimal downtime, for example by docking a replacement feeder unit to the feeder dock while the removed feeder unit is being cleaned.

[0032] In another embodiment, the control unit is configured to switch from the dynamic mode to the test mode when the light output of the light emitter is equal to or above an output threshold. Preferably, the output threshold is less than ninety percent of the maximum output of the light emitter. When the output threshold has been reached, it can be assumed that the sensor system, the feeder unit and / or the feeder docking piece have been contaminated so severely that dispensing and detection cannot be continued in a reliable manner. The test mode can then be automatically triggered.

[0033] It should be noted that the test mode may also be performed independently of the dynamic mode, for example only to check contamination of the feeder docking piece and / or the feeder unit, and may therefore consist of a partition application that does not require the control unit to operate in dynamic mode.

[0034] According to a third aspect, the present invention provides a method for detecting an event in an automated dispensing process for dispensing discrete medicaments, wherein the method comprises the following steps:

[0035] - emitting a light output from a light emitter of the detection pair;

[0036] - receiving the optical input by the optical receivers of the detection pair and converting the optical input into one or more optical input signals indicative of the optical input value;

[0037] - monitoring light input value; and

[0038] - adjusting the light output of the light emitter in response to the light input value.

[0039] The method relates to a practical implementation of the sensor system according to the first aspect of the invention and / or of the assembly according to the second aspect of the invention and therefore has the same technical advantages, which are not repeated in the following.

[0040] In one embodiment, as the light input value decreases over time, the light output of the light emitter increases.

[0041] In one embodiment, when the light input value drops below an input threshold, the light output of the light emitter increases.

[0042] Preferably, the input threshold is a predetermined input threshold.

[0043] Alternatively, the input threshold is a calibrated value determined during a calibration mode based on one or more of the light input values.

[0044] In another embodiment, the calibration value is determined when the light beam between the light transmitter and the light receiver is not obstructed.

[0045] In another embodiment, the input threshold is equal to or less than sixty percent of a maximum optical input signal of the optical receiver.

[0046] In another embodiment, the light input value is monitored continuously or at regular time intervals.

[0047] In another embodiment, the light output of the light emitter increases to an output threshold.

[0048] In another embodiment, the output threshold is less than ninety percent of the maximum output of the light emitter.

[0049] In another embodiment, the method further comprises the following steps:

[0050] - Dispensing discrete medicaments one by one at dispensing time intervals, wherein light input values ​​of one or more light input signals received between the dispensing time intervals are monitored.

[0051] In another embodiment, the method further comprises the following steps:

[0052] - providing a feeder docking piece for docking the feeder unit, wherein the light emitter and / or the light receiver are arranged in, on or at the feeder docking piece;

[0053] - in a first case, docking the feeder unit at the feeder dock and monitoring one or more of the light input values ​​when the feeder unit is docked at the feeder dock;

[0054] - in a second case, removing the feeder unit from the feeder dock and monitoring one or more of the light input values ​​while the feeder unit is removed from the feeder dock; and

[0055] - comparing one or more light input values ​​monitored in a first situation with one or more light input values ​​monitored in a second situation.

[0056] It is mentioned again that the method according to the above described embodiments may be applied independently of the step of increasing the light output when the light input value decreases over time, for example only in order to check for contamination of the feeder docking piece and / or the feeder unit.

[0057] In another embodiment, the method further comprises the following steps:

[0058] - Based on the comparison, determine whether one of the following conditions is true:

[0059] a) the light input value in one of the first case and the second case is different from the light input value in the other of the first case and the second case; or

[0060] b) For the first case and the second case, the light input values ​​are the same or within a predetermined tolerance of each other.

[0061] In another embodiment, the method further comprises the following steps:

[0062] - when condition a) is true, sending a first notification to the operator; and

[0063] - When condition b) is true, a second notification is sent to the operator.

[0064] In another embodiment, the monitoring of the light input value and the comparison thereof in the first case and the second case are performed when the light output of the light emitter is equal to or higher than the output threshold.

[0065] Preferably, the output threshold is less than ninety percent of the maximum output of the light emitter.

[0066] According to a fourth aspect, the present invention provides a computer program product comprising a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing instructions which, when executed by a processor, cause a sensor system according to the first aspect of the present invention or a component according to the second aspect of the present invention to perform the steps of a method according to the third aspect of the present invention.

[0067] The computer program product can be used to implement the method according to the third aspect of the invention using the sensor system according to the first aspect of the invention and / or the component according to the second aspect of the invention, and therefore has the same technical advantages, which are not repeated below.

[0068] The various aspects and features described and shown in this specification can be applied separately wherever possible. These individual aspects, in particular the aspects and features described in the accompanying dependent claims, can become the subject of divisional patent applications. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0069] The invention will be explained on the basis of an exemplary embodiment shown in the attached schematic diagram, in which:

[0070] Figure 1 A side view showing an assembly of a sensor system for detecting events during automatic dispensing of a feeder unit and a feeder dock for docking the feeder unit; and

[0071] Figure 2 Shows Figure 1 a side view of an assembly of wherein a feeder unit is received at said feeder dock;

[0072] Figure 3 shows the operation in dynamic mode Figure 1 and Figure 2 A flow chart of a method for a sensor system; and

[0073] Figure 4 Shows that when Figure 3 Flow chart of a method for switching between a dynamic mode and a test mode. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0074] Figure 1 and Figure 2 An assembly 9 of a feeder dock 1 and feeder unit 2 is shown for use in an automated dispensing process for dispensing discrete medicaments, particularly solid medicaments such as pills, tablets or capsules. The medicaments are 'discrete' or 'independent' because they can be dispensed individually or in dosage units.

[0075] The assembly 9 may be part of an automatic dispensing system, in particular a system according to US Pat. No. 10,173,830 B1, having a plurality of feeder docks and feeder units, each with its own medicament, to dispense and package a plurality of medicaments.

[0076] The feeder unit 2 may also be referred to as a 'medicament dispensing container' or a 'canister'.

[0077] like Figure 1 As shown, the feeder docking piece 1 includes a base 10 for receiving or docking the feeder unit 2, a dispensing drive 11 for engaging and driving the feeder unit 2, and a plurality of positioning members 12 (particularly positioning columns) for aligning and / or positioning the feeder unit 2 relative to the base 10 when docking. The feeder docking piece 1 further includes an outlet channel 14. Figure 1 In the situation shown, the feeder unit 2 is removed from the feeder dock 1 or has not yet been placed thereon. Figure 2 The situation is shown when the feeder unit 2 has been docked to the feeder docking piece 1 .

[0078] The feeder unit 2 includes a supply chamber 21 for accommodating discrete drugs, an outlet 24 for dispensing discrete drugs from the feeder unit 2, and a dispensing portion 22 between the supply chamber 21 and the outlet 24 for feeding the discrete drugs from the supply chamber 21 to the outlet 24. In particular, the dispensing portion 22 includes a dispensing mechanism 23, which is similar to the dispensing mechanism disclosed in US 10,173,830 B1, and has one or more rotatable bodies, which have passages for arranging discrete drugs in a single row, dividing the discrete drugs, and dispensing them one by one from the corresponding waiting chambers into the outlet 24. When the feeder unit 2 is docked to the feeder docking piece 1, as shown in FIG. Figure 2 As shown, the outlet 24 is aligned with and / or extends into the outlet passage 14 of the feeder interface 1 .

[0079] The feeder unit 2 has an at least partially transparent housing 20. For example, the feeder unit 2 may have a transparent portion of the housing 20 at the dispensing portion 22 and / or the outlet 24.

[0080] The assembly 9 further comprises a sensor system 3 for detecting events in the automatic dispensing process. In this example, the sensor system 3 comprises a first light emitter 41 and a second light emitter 42 for generating a light output A. In particular, the first light emitter 41 and the second light emitter 42 generate a first light beam L1 and a second light beam L2, respectively. The light output A may be in the visible spectrum or in the invisible spectrum. The light output A may be, for example, infrared light or a laser.

[0081] In this example, the light emitters 41, 42 are light emitting diodes (LEDs). The light emitters 41, 42 may be part of a light curtain formed by several light emitters arranged side by side, or they may be located in separate detection zones of the sensor system 3, the feeder dock 1 and / or the feeder unit 2.

[0082] The sensor system 3 further comprises a first light receiver 51 and a second light receiver 52, for example in the form of a photocell. Each light emitter 41, 42 forms a detection pair 41, 51; 42, 52 with a corresponding light receiver in the light receivers 51, 52. The light receivers 51, 52 are arranged for receiving a light output A emitted by the corresponding light emitter 41, 42 as a light input B, and for converting the light input B into one or more input signals C, for example a single continuous input signal C that may vary in amplitude or a plurality of input signals C acquired at certain time intervals. The input signals are analog, meaning that they represent light input values ​​D1, D2, ..., Dn, which indicate the intensity and / or amplitude of the light input A being sensed, measured or detected. The light receivers 51, 52 may be positioned relative to the light emitters 41, 42, such as Figure 1As shown, it is located on the same side as the light emitters 41, 42 when a reflector (not shown) is used.

[0083] The light emitters 41, 42 and the light receivers 51, 52 are arranged at, on or in the feeder docking piece 1. They are positioned so that the light beams L1, L2 travelling between the light emitters 41, 42 and the light receivers 51, 52 of the detection pairs 41, 51; 42, 52 pass through the corresponding transparent part of the transparent part of the at least partially transparent housing 20 at least once. In this example, the first light emitter 41 and the first light receiver 51 have been positioned in the positioning member 12 on the opposite side of the dispensing part 22. The second light emitter 42 and the second light receiver 52 have been positioned in the base 10 on the opposite side of the outlet 24.

[0084] Alternatively, one or more of the light emitters 41, 42 and / or light receivers 51, 52 may be positioned in the base 10, the positioning member 12, or in a dedicated protrusion extending from the feeder docking piece 1 along the feeder unit 2 and / or at least partially extending into the feeder unit. In further alternative embodiments, one or more of the light emitters 41, 42 and / or light receivers 51, 52 may be arranged at, on or in the feeder unit 2 in an independent manner, or connected to the feeder docking piece 1 or another component when the feeder unit 2 is docked to the feeder docking piece 1.

[0085] The sensor system 3 further comprises a memory 6 for storing the light input values ​​D1, D2, ..., Dn and a control unit 7 for processing the light input signal C or the light input values ​​D1, D2, ..., Dn and sending the light output value E to the light emitters 41, 42 in response to the light input signal C or the light input values ​​D1, D2, ..., Dn in a manner to be discussed in more detail below. In this example, the memory 6 is a non-transitory or tangible computer-readable medium, such as a physical data carrier, such as a hard drive, USB drive, RAM memory, etc. A computer program product in the form of computer-readable instructions may be loaded onto the memory 6 and / or into the control unit 7. The memory 6 may further be used to store the light input values ​​D1, D2, ..., Dn in a database-like structure.

[0086] The control unit 7 is operatively connected to the one or more optical transmitters 41, 42, the one or more optical receivers 51, 52 and the memory 6. The control unit 7 comprises a processor 8 for processing and / or executing computer readable instructions, such as instructions of the memory 6, causing the control unit 7 to perform the steps of the method according to the invention.

[0087] The assembly 9 as a whole (or the sensor system 3 in particular) may further include an alarm device 90 for alerting an operator (e.g. a pharmacist) of a particular condition and / or action to be taken. The alarm device 90 may be formed by a human-machine interface (e.g. a display or screen) or by one or more indicators (e.g. a light and / or an audio indicator). The alarm device 90 is used to indicate the status of the feeder docking piece 1 and / or the feeder unit 2, e.g. whether the feeder docking piece 1 and / or the feeder unit 2 is clean or contaminated.

[0088] Now refer to Figures 1 to 4 A method for detecting events in an automated dispensing process for dispensing discrete medications is briefly described.

[0089] Figure 3 The steps of the method are shown when the control unit 7 is operated in the dynamic mode M1 .

[0090] At the start of the dynamic mode (step S1), a light input signal C or light input value D1 is received from one of the light receivers 51, 52 (step S2) and processed by the processor 8 of the control unit 7. The control unit 7 is then configured to check whether a light input value D1 is received between the allocated time intervals (step S3). If the answer is 'yes' (Y), the light input value D1 is stored in the memory 6 (step S4). If the answer is 'no' (N), the method returns to the start (step S1).

[0091] The light input value D1 stored in the previous step (step S4) will be referred to hereinafter as the 'last' light input value D1. The light input values ​​D2, ..., Dn stored during the previous cycle of the method are referred to hereinafter as 'previously stored' light input values ​​D2, ..., Dn.

[0092] In the next step of the method (step S5), the control unit 7 is instructed to compare the last light input value D1 with the previously stored light input value(s) D2, ..., Dn. In particular, the control unit 7 checks (step S6) whether the last light input value D1 is reduced compared to the previously stored light input value D2, ..., Dn. When the answer is 'yes' (Y), the control unit 7 sends an instruction or light output value E to the corresponding light emitter 41, 42 to increase the light output A (step S7). If the answer is 'no' (N), the last light input value D1 is stored in the memory 6 as one of the previously stored light input values ​​D2, ..., Dn, and steps S1 to S7 are repeated for the next 'last' light input value D1.

[0093] The control unit 7 may be configured to increase the light output value E or the light output A of the light emitters 41, 42 for any decrease in the last light input value D1 compared to the previously stored light input values ​​D2, ..., Dn. Alternatively, the control unit 7 may be configured to increase the light output value E or the light output A of the light emitters 41, 42 only when the last light input value D1 drops below an input threshold. The input threshold may be a predetermined input threshold stored in the memory 6. It may, for example, be based on a percentage of the maximum light input signal of the light receivers 51, 52, or at the bottom end of the optimal operating range of the light receivers 51, 52. Such a value may, for example, be found in the factory specifications of the light receivers 51, 52. In this example, the input threshold is selected to be equal to or less than sixty percent of the maximum light input signal of the light receivers 51, 52.

[0094] Alternatively, the light input threshold may be set during a calibration mode, for example when the feeder unit 2 is removed and nothing is blocking the light beams L1, L2. In this way, age degradation of the light emitters 41, 42 and / or light receivers 51, 52 and / or minor deviations from factory specifications may be compensated.

[0095] For example, the light output A may also be reduced when it is higher than expected. This may occur after cleaning contamination or when the specifications of the corresponding light emitters 41, 42 do not meet the factory specifications of the light emitters 41, 42. Therefore, the light output A may be adjusted or corrected positively or negatively to ensure that the corresponding light receivers 51, 52 can function within their optimal operating range or window.

[0096] In the dynamic mode M1, the control unit 7 is configured to increase the light output A of the light emitters 41, 42 of at least one detection pair 41, 51; 42, 52 to an output threshold. The output threshold is less than ninety percent of the maximum output of the light emitters 41, 42 of at least one detection pair 41, 51; 42, 52. The maximum output may be given as a factory specification or may be tested in the field.

[0097] Figure 4 The steps of the method are shown when the control unit 7 is operated in the test mode M2 ​​or switched from the dynamic mode M1 to said test mode M2 ​​.

[0098] Figure 4 The steps of the method can be Figure 3The steps of the method overlap or are performed in parallel. In particular, step S11 corresponds to step S1 as the start of the dynamic mode M1. In a scenario, the next step (step S12) is also identical to step S2 of the previously discussed method, since the light input signal C or the last light input value D1 is received at the control unit 7 or processed by the control unit. Alternatively, step S12 may be based on a light output value E of one of the light emitters 41, 42.

[0099] In the next step, it is determined whether the last light input value D1 is equal to or lower than the input threshold, or whether the light output value E is equal to or higher than the above-mentioned output threshold. If the answer is 'yes' (Y), the control unit 7 switches from the dynamic mode M1 to the test mode M2. If the answer is 'no' (N), the dynamic mode M1 continues, as shown in FIG. Figure 3 shown.

[0100] At the beginning of the test mode M2 ​​(step S14), the control unit 7 is configured to receive a first light input value D1 in a first situation in which the feeder unit 2 is received at the feeder dock 1 (step S15), such as Figure 2 As shown. If this is already the case, no separate action is required. If this is not the case, the control unit 7 can send a control signal to an automatic member (e.g. a robot) to place the feeder unit 2 on the feeder docking piece 1, or can remind the pharmacist to place the feeder unit 2 on the feeder docking piece 1. The method can involve additional checks (not shown) for checking whether the feeder unit 2 has indeed been docked or is present on the feeder docking piece 1. The first light input value D1 is stored in the memory 6.

[0101] Subsequently, the control unit 7 sends a control signal to the automatic means or sends an instruction to the pharmacist to remove the feeder unit 2 from the feeder docking piece 1, thereby obtaining Figure 1 (step S16). The method may involve an additional check (not shown) for checking whether the feeder unit 2 has indeed been removed or left from the feeder docking piece 1.

[0102] The control unit 7 is then configured for receiving a second light input value D2 in a second situation in which the feeder unit 2 is removed from the feeder dock 1 (step S17 ). The second light input value D2 is also stored in the memory 6 .

[0103] In the next step (step S18), the first case ( Figure 2 ) and the first light input value D1 representing the second case ( Figure 1 ) to compare the first light input value D1 with the second light input value D2 to subsequently determine (step S19) whether the result of the comparison is a difference between the first light input value D1 and the second light input value D2. In particular, it is determined whether one of the following conditions is true:

[0104] a) the light input value D1, D2 in one of the first case and the second case is different from the light input value in the other of the first case and the second case; or

[0105] b) For the first and second cases, the light input values ​​D1 , D2 are the same or within a predetermined tolerance of each other.

[0106] The predetermined tolerance may be, for example, less than ten percent or less than five percent of the first light input value D1.

[0107] In particular, it is determined whether in condition a) the second light input value D2 is higher than the first light input value D1 , which would indicate that a contamination of the feeder unit 2 blocks or diffuses at least a portion of the light beams L1 , L2 .

[0108] If condition a) is true, the answer to step S19 is 'yes' (Y), and it is assumed that the change in light input values ​​D1, D2 between the two cases is caused by the removal of the feeder unit 2. Therefore, the feeder unit 2 must be contaminated. The control unit 7 is operatively connected to the alarm device 90 for sending a first notification N1 to the pharmacist via the alarm device 90. The first notification N1 may indicate the contamination state of the feeder unit 2.

[0109] If condition b) is true, the answer to step s19 is 'No' (N), and it is assumed that the feeder dock 1 is contaminated. The feeder unit 2 may also be contaminated, but the feeder dock 1 is so contaminated that removing the feeder unit 2 does not cause a significant change in the light input values ​​D1, D2. The control unit 7 sends a second notification N2 to the pharmacist via the alarm device 90. The second notification N2 may indicate the contamination state of the feeder dock 1.

[0110] It should be understood that the above description is included to illustrate the operation of the preferred embodiment and is not meant to limit the scope of the invention. Through the above discussion, many changes will be apparent to those skilled in the art, and these changes will still be encompassed within the scope of the invention.

[0111] Reference numerals list

[0112] 1 Feeder docking piece

[0113] 10 Base

[0114] 11 Assigning Drivers

[0115] 12 Positioning components

[0116] 14 Exit Channel

[0117] 2 Feeder units

[0118] 20 Transparent shell

[0119] 21 Supply Room

[0120] 22 Allocation section

[0121] 23 Allocation Agency

[0122] 24 Exit

[0123] 3 Sensor system

[0124] 41 First light transmitter

[0125] 42 Second optical transmitter

[0126] 51 First optical receiver

[0127] 52 Second optical receiver

[0128] 6 Memory

[0129] 7 Control unit

[0130] 8 Processors

[0131] 9 Components

[0132] 90 Alarm device

[0133] A. Light Output

[0134] B Optical input

[0135] C Optical input signal

[0136] D Light input value

[0137] E Light output value

[0138] L1 First beam

[0139] L2 Second beam

[0140] M1 Dynamic Mode

[0141] M2 Test Mode

[0142] N1 First Notice

[0143] N2 Second Notice

[0144] S1 Step "Start Dynamic Mode" S2 Step "Receive optical input signal"

[0145] S3 step "Is the optical input signal received between the allocated time intervals?"

[0146] S4 step "Store the last light input value in memory"

[0147] S5 step "Compare the last light input value with the previously stored (multiple) light input values" S6 Step "Did the last light input value decrease compared to the previously stored light input value(s)?"

[0148] S7 Step "Increase light output"

[0149] S11 Step "Activate dynamic mode"

[0150] S12 Step "Receive light output value or light input value"

[0151] S13 step "Is the light output value equal to or higher than the output threshold or is the light input value equal to or lower than the input threshold?"

[0152] S14 Step "Start test mode"

[0153] S15 Step "Receive light input value in a first situation where the feeder unit is received at the feeder docking piece"

[0154] S16 Step "Remove the feeder unit from the feeder docking piece"

[0155] S17 Step "Receive light input value in a second situation where the feeder unit is removed from the feeder docking piece" S18 Step "Comparing the light input values ​​stored for the first case and the second case"

[0156] S19 step "Is the result of the comparison a difference between the light input values ​​stored for the first case and the second case?"

Claims

1. A sensor system (3) for detecting an event in an automated dispensing process for dispensing discrete medications, wherein: The sensor system (3) comprises a light transmitter (41, 42) for generating a light output (A), a light receiver (51, 52) for converting a light input (B) into one or more light input signals (C) indicating light input values ​​(D1, D2, ..., Dn), and a control unit (7) operatively connected to the light transmitter (41, 42) and the light receiver (51, 52), wherein the light transmitter (41, 42) forms a detection pair (41, 51; 42, 52) with the light receiver (51, 52), wherein the control unit (7) is configured to detect the light input from the light transmitter (41, 42) and the light receiver (51, 52). The receiver (41, 42) receives the one or more optical input signals (C) and is used to operate in a dynamic mode (M1), in which the optical output (A) of the optical transmitter (41, 42) is adjusted in response to the optical input values ​​(D1, D2, ..., Dn), wherein the optical output (A) of the optical transmitter (41, 42) increases when the optical input values ​​(D1, D2, ..., Dn) drop below an input threshold, and wherein the input threshold is a calibration value determined during a calibration mode based on one or more of the optical input values ​​(D1, D2, ..., Dn).

2. The sensor system (3) according to claim 1, wherein: In the dynamic mode (M1), the control unit (7) is configured to increase the light output (A) of the light emitter (41, 42) when the light input values ​​(D1, D2, ..., Dn) decrease over time.

3. The sensor system (3) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The input threshold is a predetermined input threshold stored in the memory (6).

4. The sensor system (3) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The input threshold is equal to or less than sixty percent of the maximum optical input signal of the optical receiver (51, 52).

5. The sensor system (3) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: In the dynamic mode (M1), the control unit (7) is configured to store the light input values ​​(D1, D2, ..., Dn) continuously or at regular time intervals.

6. The sensor system (3) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: In the dynamic mode (M1), the control unit (7) is configured to increase the light output (A) of the light emitter (41, 42) to an output threshold.

7. The sensor system (3) according to claim 6, wherein: The output threshold is less than or equal to ninety percent of the maximum output of the optical transmitter (41, 42).

8. An assembly (9) comprising a sensor system (3) according to any one of the preceding claims and a feeder docking piece (1) for docking a feeder unit (2), wherein: The light transmitter (41, 42) and / or the light receiver (51, 52) are arranged in the feeder docking piece (1), on the feeder docking piece or at the feeder docking piece.

9. The assembly according to claim 8, wherein: The feeder unit (2) comprises a dispensing mechanism (23) for dispensing these discrete drugs one by one, wherein the feeder docking piece (1) comprises a dispensing drive (11), which is arranged to engage with the dispensing mechanism (23) when the feeder unit (2) is received at the feeder docking piece (1), wherein the control unit (7) is operatively connected to the dispensing drive (11) to operate the dispensing mechanism (23) at dispensing time intervals, wherein, in the dynamic mode (M1), the control unit (7) is configured to store optical input values ​​(D1, D2, ..., Dn) of the one or more optical input signals (C) received between these dispensing time intervals.

10. Assembly (9) according to claim 8 or 9, wherein: The feeder unit (2) has an at least partially transparent housing (20), wherein the light emitter (41, 42) and the light receiver (51, 52) are positioned so that when the feeder unit (2) is received in the feeder docking piece (1), a light beam (L1, L2) traveling between the light emitter (41, 42) and the light receiver (51, 52) passes through a transparent portion of the at least partially transparent housing (20) at least once.

11. Assembly (9) according to claim 10, wherein The control unit (7) is configured to switch between the dynamic mode (M1) and a calibration mode, wherein, in the calibration mode, the control unit (7) is configured to store one or more of the light input values ​​(D1, D2, ..., Dn) as calibration values ​​when the feeder unit (2) leaves the feeder docking piece (1).

12. Assembly (9) according to claim 10, wherein The control unit (7) is configured to switch between the dynamic mode (M1) and the test mode (M2), wherein, in the test mode (M2), the control unit (7) is configured to store one or more of the light input values ​​(D1, D2, ..., Dn) in a first case when the feeder unit (2) is docked at the feeder docking piece (1), and to store one or more of the light input values ​​(D1, D2, ..., Dn) in a second case when the feeder unit (2) is removed from the feeder docking piece (1).

13. Assembly (9) according to claim 12, wherein The control unit (7) is further configured to compare one or more light input values ​​(D1, D2, ..., Dn) stored in the first case with one or more light input values ​​(D1, D2, ..., Dn) stored in the second case.

14. Assembly (9) according to claim 13, wherein The control unit (7) is further configured to determine, based on the comparison, whether one of the following conditions is true: a) the light input value (D1, D2, ..., Dn) in one of the first case and the second case is different from the light input value in the other of the first case and the second case; or b) For the first case and the second case, the light input values ​​(D1, D2, ..., Dn) are the same or within a predetermined tolerance of each other.

15. Assembly (9) according to claim 14, wherein The component (9) comprises an alarm device (90) for notifying an operator, wherein the control unit (7) is operatively connected to the alarm device (90) to send a first notification (N1) to the operator via the alarm device (90) when condition a) is true, and to send a second notification (N2) to the operator via the alarm device (90) when condition b) is true.

16. Assembly (9) according to any one of claims 12 to 15, wherein The control unit (7) is configured to switch from the dynamic mode (M1) to the test mode (M2) when the light output (A) of the light emitter (41, 42) is equal to or higher than an output threshold.

17. Assembly (9) according to claim 16, wherein The output threshold is less than ninety percent of the maximum output of the optical transmitter (41, 42).

18. A method for detecting an event in an automated dispensing process for dispensing discrete medications, wherein: The method comprises the following steps: - emitting a light output (A) from a light emitter (41, 42) of the detection pair; - receiving an optical input (B) by an optical receiver (51, 52) of the detection pair and converting the optical input (B) into one or more optical input signals (C) indicative of an optical input value (D1, D2, ..., Dn); - monitoring these light input values ​​(D1, D2, ..., Dn) over time; and - adjusting the light output (A) of the light emitter (41, 42) in response to the light input values ​​(D1, D2, ..., Dn), wherein the light output (A) of the light emitter (41, 42) increases when the light input values ​​(D1, D2, ..., Dn) drop below an input threshold, and wherein the input threshold is a calibration value determined during a calibration mode based on one or more of the light input values ​​(D1, D2, ..., Dn).

19. The method according to claim 18, wherein: As the light input values ​​(D1, D2, ..., Dn) decrease over time, the light output (A) of the light emitter (41, 42) increases.

20. The method according to claim 18 or 19, wherein: The input threshold is a predetermined input threshold.

21. The method according to any one of claims 18 to 20, wherein: The calibration value is determined when a light beam (L1, L2) between the light transmitter (41, 42) and the light receiver (51, 52) is not blocked.

22. The method according to any one of claims 18 to 21, wherein: The input threshold is equal to or less than sixty percent of the maximum optical input signal of the optical receiver (51, 52).

23. The method according to any one of claims 18 to 22, wherein: These light input values ​​(D1, D2, ..., Dn) are monitored continuously or at regular time intervals.

24. The method according to any one of claims 18 to 23, wherein: The light output (A) of the light emitter (41, 42) increases to an output threshold.

25. The method according to claim 24, wherein: The output threshold is less than ninety percent of the maximum output of the optical transmitter (41, 42).

26. The method according to any one of claims 18 to 25, wherein: The method further comprises the following steps: - dispensing the discrete drugs one by one at dispensing time intervals, wherein the optical input values ​​(D1, D2, ..., Dn) of the one or more optical input signals (C) received between the dispensing time intervals are monitored.

27. The method according to any one of claims 18 to 26, wherein: The method further comprises the following steps: - providing a feeder docking piece (1) for docking a feeder unit (2), wherein the light emitter (41, 42) and / or the light receiver (51, 52) are arranged in the feeder docking piece (1), on the feeder docking piece or at the feeder docking piece; - in a first case, docking the feeder unit (2) at the feeder docking piece (1) and monitoring one or more of the light input values ​​(D1, D2, ..., Dn) when the feeder unit (2) is docked at the feeder docking piece (1); - in a second case, removing the feeder unit (2) from the feeder dock (1) and monitoring one or more of the light input values ​​(D1, D2, ..., Dn) when the feeder unit (2) is removed from the feeder dock (1); and - comparing one or more light input values ​​(D1, D2, ..., Dn) monitored in the first situation with one or more light input values ​​(D1, D2, ..., Dn) monitored in the second situation.

28. The method according to claim 27, wherein: The method further comprises the following steps: - Based on the comparison, determine whether one of the following conditions is true: a) the light input value (D1, D2, ..., Dn) in one of the first case and the second case is different from the light input value in the other of the first case and the second case; or b) For the first case and the second case, the light input values ​​(D1, D2, ..., Dn) are the same or within a predetermined tolerance of each other.

29. The method according to claim 28, wherein: The method further comprises the following steps: - when condition a) is true, sending a first notification (N1) to the operator; and - When condition b) is true, a second notification (N2) is sent to the operator.

30. The method according to any one of claims 27 to 29, wherein: The monitoring of the light input values ​​(D1, D2, ..., Dn) and the comparison thereof in the first case and the second case are performed when the light output (A) of the light emitter (41, 42) is equal to or higher than an output threshold.

31. The method according to claim 30, wherein: The output threshold is less than ninety percent of the maximum output of the optical transmitter (41, 42).

32. A computer program product comprising a non-transitory computer readable medium (6) storing instructions which, when executed by a processor (8), cause a sensor system (3) according to any one of claims 1 to 7 or a component (9) according to any one of claims 8 to 17 to perform the steps of a method according to any one of claims 18 to 31.

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