Transparent capsule image acquisition device

Abstract

The purpose of the present invention is to provide a transparent capsule image acquisition device capable of acquiring an image in which foreign matter, damage, or the like adhering to the top of a head can be detected for a light-transmissive transparent capsule. This transparent capsule image acquisition device (40) is characterized in that: an illumination device (60) is configured so as to irradiate diffused light (Li2) into a transparent capsule (K) from an incident head top (Ta) of the transparent capsule (K) located at an imaging position (P1) by means of an illumination unit (63), and irradiate the imaging head top (Tb) from the inside of the transparent capsule (K); the imaging device (50) is configured so as to capture an image of the imaging head top (Tb) irradiated from the inside of the transparent capsule (K) by the illumination unit (63) within a range including at least the tip of the imaging head top (Tb) and the entire periphery of the imaging head top (Tb).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an apparatus for inspecting light-transmitting capsules. Background Technology

[0002] Conventionally, an apparatus for inspecting the appearance of tablets has been provided. Furthermore, Patent Document 1 discloses a technique for inspecting the appearance of light-transmitting capsules (transparent capsules). In transparent capsules, light passes through, causing reflections from the surrounding area, unlike opaque tablets. To address this problem, the technique in Patent Document 1 is designed to illuminate the transparent capsule from above by irradiating it with light through the suction port of the delivery path, thus reducing reflections from the suction port.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-186962 Summary of the Invention

[0006] The technical problem that the invention aims to solve

[0007] Here, if the main body of the transparent capsule is photographed from directly above, the transport path will be primarily reflected. Therefore, if the reflection of the transport path is taken into account, an image that can detect foreign objects or the like on the main body can be obtained. However, almost the entire top area of ​​the transparent capsule is curved, resulting in a large area being reflected. Therefore, reflection occurs in the top of the transparent capsule, and there is a problem that the shape, foreign objects, damage, etc., are mixed in with the reflection, making it impossible to capture the image correctly. On the other hand, in the visual inspection of tablets, including transparent capsules, it is required to conduct a thorough inspection and detect foreign objects or the like without blind spots. Therefore, in the visual inspection of transparent capsules, it is also required to detect foreign objects or the like from all directions, including the main body and the top.

[0008] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide a transparent capsule image acquisition device that can acquire images of transparent capsules that are transparent to light, and can detect foreign objects, damage, etc. attached to the top of the head.

[0009] Solutions for solving technical problems

[0010] Here, when visually inspecting opaque tablets, reflected illumination, which shines light onto the surface of the tablet, is typically used. However, in the top of transparent capsules, even with reflected illumination, the top is dark because light passes through the capsule, making it difficult to detect foreign objects. Next, the inventors of this application investigated a method (through illumination) that uses light to pass through the transparent capsule by shining light from the back (the inside of the area to be photographed), capturing the light and taking a photograph. However, the research found that even with through illumination, the top is dark, and other components such as the delivery unit are reflected.

[0011] In view of the above problems, the inventors of this application have studied a structure with less background reflection and fewer blind spots. Because the top of the transparent capsule is curved, if the top is photographed from above, the portion of the top facing the delivery path cannot be captured, resulting in blind spots. However, if the transparent capsule is photographed within a full circumference including the top and surrounding area, blind spots can be reduced and the top can be captured.

[0012] Next, the inventors of this application investigated the structure of a lighting device or similar means for illuminating a transparent capsule. Specifically, they investigated the angle and position of the lighting device to ensure that the top of the head was illuminated approximately evenly when photographing the transparent capsule from a horizontal perspective. Initially, the inventors considered that illuminating the capsule from the side (left-right direction) would allow for approximately even illumination of the top of the head for photographing. However, after actual testing, they found that it was difficult to properly illuminate the top of the head when illuminating from the left-right direction.

[0013] Based on various simulations, the position and angle of the lighting device were repeatedly tested by actually irradiating the capsule with light. It was found that, for example, when photographing a transparent capsule including the top of the head and its entire circumference, if an lighting unit that irradiates in a diffused manner is set at a position opposite to the delivery path, the top of the head can be illuminated in a roughly uniform and bright manner for photographing.

[0014] Specifically, it was found that if an illumination unit emitting diffused light is installed at a position opposite to the transport path, and the transparent capsule is photographed within a circumference including the top of the head, then the light from the roughly uniformly emitting illumination unit, shining from behind the transparent capsule onto the top of the head, is refracted or reflected inside the transparent capsule, thus brightly illuminating the top of the head. This reduces blind spots at the top of the head and allows for effective photographing. As a result, images can be acquired that accurately detect foreign objects, damage, etc., attached to the top of the transparent capsule.

[0015] (1) The transparent capsule image acquisition device of the present invention, provided based on the above insights, is a transparent capsule image acquisition device having a top end formed as a curved surface at both ends in the long axis direction and acquiring an image of a transparent capsule that is transmissible to light. It is characterized by comprising: an imaging device that captures an image of the transparent capsule being transported on the transport path formed by the transport device when the transparent capsule reaches an imaging position located on the transport path; and an illumination device that irradiates diffused light onto the transparent capsule being transported on the transport path from an illumination section provided in a manner facing the transport path. The illumination device is configured to transmit the diffused light from one of the top ends of the transparent capsule at the imaging position into the transparent capsule and irradiate the other imaging top end from the transparent capsule. The imaging device is configured to capture an image of the imaging top end illuminated from the transparent capsule by the illumination section within a range including at least the top end of the imaging top end and its entire circumference.

[0016] In the transparent capsule image acquisition apparatus of the present invention, light (diffuse light) from an illumination section that provides substantially uniform illumination enters from the top of one party's head (the head to be illuminated). This light is refracted or reflected inside the transparent capsule, thereby brightly illuminating the top of the other party's head (the head to be photographed). This allows for substantially uniform and bright illumination of the top of the transparent capsule for photographing. Furthermore, in the transparent capsule image acquisition apparatus of the present invention, the top of the head is photographed within a circumference including the tip and surrounding area, thereby suppressing blind spots and ensuring accurate photographing of the top of the head. As a result, the transparent capsule image acquisition apparatus of the present invention can acquire images that accurately detect foreign objects, damage, etc., attached to the top of the transparent capsule.

[0017] (2) The transparent capsule image acquisition device of the present invention may also be configured such that the brightness of the illumination part illuminating the top of the head from the outside of the transparent capsule is stronger than the brightness of the top of the camera head illuminating from the outside of the transparent capsule.

[0018] According to the transparent capsule image acquisition device of (2), it is possible to brightly illuminate the top of the head in a way that makes the image stand out. As a result, the transparent capsule image acquisition device of the present invention can acquire images of transparent capsules K that can more accurately detect foreign objects, damage, etc. attached to the top of the head.

[0019] (3) The transparent capsule image acquisition device of the present invention may also be configured such that the imaging device captures the transparent capsule when the brightness of the light irradiating the top of the imaging head from the outside of the transparent capsule is stronger than the brightness of the light irradiating the top of the imaging head from the outside of the transparent capsule.

[0020] According to the transparent capsule image acquisition device of (3), it is possible to brightly illuminate the top of the head in a way that makes the image stand out. As a result, the transparent capsule image acquisition device of the present invention can acquire images that can more accurately detect foreign objects, damage, etc. attached to the top of the head.

[0021] (4) The transparent capsule image acquisition device of the present invention may also be configured such that the illumination part is positioned at a position closer to the top of the shooting head than the top of the shooting head when the transparent capsule reaches the shooting position.

[0022] According to the transparent capsule image acquisition device of (4), it is possible to brightly illuminate the top of the head in a way that makes the image stand out. As a result, the transparent capsule image acquisition device of the present invention can acquire images that can more accurately detect foreign objects, damage, etc. attached to the top of the head.

[0023] (5) The transparent capsule image acquisition device of the present invention may also be configured such that the illumination part is disposed at a position offset from the position opposite to the transparent capsule when the transparent capsule reaches the shooting position.

[0024] According to the transparent capsule image acquisition device of (5), it is possible to brightly illuminate the top of the head in a way that makes the image stand out. As a result, the transparent capsule image acquisition device of the present invention can acquire images that can more accurately detect foreign objects, damage, etc. attached to the top of the head.

[0025] (6) The transparent capsule image acquisition device of the present invention may also be configured such that the illumination part has a distance of more than or equal to the length of the long axis of the transparent capsule in the extension direction of the conveying path.

[0026] According to the transparent capsule image acquisition device of (6), it is possible to illuminate the top of the head brightly over a wider area. As a result, the transparent capsule image acquisition device of the present invention can acquire images that can more accurately detect foreign objects, damage, etc. attached to the top of the head.

[0027] (7) The transparent capsule image acquisition device of the present invention may also be configured such that: the shooting device is configured to take pictures of the top of the shooting head from both the first image acquisition position to the left and the second image acquisition position to the right, and to repeatedly take pictures of the top of the shooting head within the shooting range of the first image acquisition position and the shooting range of the second image acquisition position, and to take pictures of the top of the shooting head illuminated from inside the transparent capsule by the illumination unit within a range including the entire circumference of the transparent capsule by the images of the transparent capsule at the first image acquisition position and the images of the transparent capsule at the second image acquisition position.

[0028] According to the transparent capsule image acquisition device of (7), the top of the transparent capsule can be photographed from two directions: a first image acquisition position to the left and a second image acquisition position to the right. Furthermore, in the above structure, both the first and second image acquisition positions capture images that include the top of the capsule, and these images can capture an image covering the entire circumference including the top of the capsule. Therefore, the top of one of the two ends of the transparent capsule can be photographed without any blind spots. As a result, the transparent capsule image acquisition device of the present invention can improve the accuracy of visual inspection of transparent capsules. Furthermore, according to the above structure, if the tops of both ends of the transparent capsule are photographed separately, the tops of both ends of the transparent capsule can be photographed without any blind spots.

[0029] (8) The transparent capsule image acquisition device of the present invention may also be configured such that: the transparent capsule image acquisition device has a diffusion member that covers at least a portion of the delivery path and diffuses light, and the illumination unit irradiates light from a light source provided in the illumination device by means of a portion of the diffusion member as the diffused light.

[0030] According to the transparent capsule image acquisition device of (8), the light from the illumination device is diffused over a wide range by the diffusion component, thereby more effectively eliminating the shadows generated by the reflection of the delivery path.

[0031] (9) The transparent capsule image acquisition device of the present invention may also be configured such that: the transparent capsule is conveyed along the conveying direction of the conveying path in the long axis direction, the illumination unit is disposed at a position separated from the shooting position to the conveying direction or in the direction opposite to the conveying direction, i.e., a first direction, the shooting device takes a picture of the transparent capsule observed from the image acquisition position, the image acquisition position being a position separated from the shooting position to the direction opposite to the first direction, i.e., a second direction.

[0032] According to the transparent capsule image acquisition device of (9), it is possible to acquire images that can accurately detect foreign objects, damage, etc. attached to the top of the head.

[0033] (10) The transparent capsule image acquisition device of the present invention may also be configured such that: an attraction area serving as an attraction port for adsorbing the transparent capsule and a non-attraction area without the attraction port are provided on the transport path, wherein the non-attraction area is located at the position where the transparent capsule is photographed.

[0034] According to the transparent capsule image acquisition device of (10), it is possible to suppress the shadow of the suction port on the delivery path, thereby enabling more accurate detection of foreign matter and the like attached to the transparent capsule.

[0035] Furthermore, the term "transparent capsule" in this specification refers to a transparent formulation consisting of a liquid, transparent pharmaceutical substance and a transparent capsule shell. A representative example of a transparent capsule is a soft capsule, which uses a capsule shell made of materials such as gelatin to encapsulate a liquid, transparent substance and forms a capsule shape. This invention uses such a soft capsule as the subject of the photograph, and thus achieves the aforementioned excellent effects.

[0036] However, the transparent capsules that can be photographed in this invention are not limited to the aforementioned soft capsules. The above-mentioned effects can be achieved even with transparent capsules, for example, the following type of capsule: that is, the transparent capsules are not limited to soft capsules, but can also be hard capsules with seams.

[0037] The contents are generally colorless and transparent or colored and transparent liquid, but may contain small amounts of other components besides the liquid (solids such as particles, air bubbles). The liquid state includes aqueous, oily, gel-like, and viscous liquids. The liquid component is not limited to a single component and may also contain multiple phase-separated components. The capsule shell is generally colorless and transparent or colored and transparent, but may have printed or colored portions on a portion of the surface (e.g., excluding the top). The printed or colored portions may also be opaque. The printing can be embossed or printed. Furthermore, transparent capsules may or may not be classified as pharmaceuticals. That is, transparent capsules include health supplements.

[0038] "Transparent" is not limited to completely colorless and transparent; it can also refer to a state with slightly lower transparency, or what is called semi-transparent.

[0039] Invention Effects

[0040] According to the present invention, a transparent capsule image acquisition device can be provided, which can acquire images of transparent capsules that are translucent to light, and can detect foreign objects, damage, etc. attached to the top of the head. Attached Figure Description

[0041] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram showing the overall structure of a transparent capsule appearance inspection device equipped with a transparent capsule image acquisition device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] Figure 2 It means Figure 1 A diagram showing a portion of the delivery path of a transparent capsule appearance inspection device. (a) is a top view, and (b) is a side view.

[0043] Figure 3 This is a diagram illustrating an example of a transparent capsule.

[0044] Figure 4 It means Figure 1 Side view of the transparent capsule image acquisition device.

[0045] Figure 5 It means Figure 1 A top view of the transparent capsule image acquisition device.

[0046] Figure 6 (a) indicates Figure 1 (a) is a front view of the transparent capsule image acquisition device, and (b) is a diagram showing the image acquired by the imaging unit.

[0047] Figure 7 It means Figure 1 A diagram showing the angle of the injection path of the transparent capsule image acquisition device. (a) is a top view, and (b) is an angle from the top view. Figure 7 (a) is the view observed from direction A3, and (c) is the side view.

[0048] Figure 8 (a) is a front view showing the top and surrounding area of ​​the transparent capsule, and (b) is a view showing... Figure 1 A diagram showing the imaging range of the transparent capsule dispensing device.

[0049] Figure 9 yes Figure 4 Sectional view along line A1-A1.

[0050] Figure 10 It means Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the diffused light of the transparent capsule image acquisition device and the light incident on the transparent capsule.

[0051] Figure 11 It means Figure 1 A top view of the position of the reflector of the transparent capsule image acquisition device.

[0052] Figure 12 This indicates that it is set in Figure 1 Side views of the configuration of the two transparent capsule image acquisition devices in a transparent capsule appearance inspection apparatus. (a) is the upstream transparent capsule image acquisition device, and (b) is the downstream transparent capsule image acquisition device. Detailed Implementation

[0053] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram showing the overall structure of the transparent capsule appearance inspection device 1, which includes the transparent capsule image acquisition device 40 according to the embodiments of the present invention.

[0054] Furthermore, the term "transparent capsule" in this specification refers to a formulation having a defined shape and being able to transmit light. The transparent capsule K has two curved ends T at its long axis G (see reference). Figure 3 ).

[0055] The "Appearance Inspection" in this instruction manual includes checking for any foreign matter adhering to the transparent capsules, defects, or mixing of different transparent capsules, as well as any abnormalities in the appearance of the transparent capsules.

[0056] In the following description, the vertical direction with the transparent capsule appearance inspection device 1 installed will be referred to as "vertical direction H". Furthermore, the upper part of the vertical direction H will be referred to as "upper H1" and the lower part as "lower H2".

[0057] Overall structure of the transparent capsule appearance inspection device

[0058] like Figure 1 As shown, the transparent capsule appearance inspection device 1 includes a supply unit 10, an arrangement device 20, a conveying unit 30, a screening and recycling device 70, and a control device 80. Additionally, the transparent capsule appearance inspection device 1 includes a transparent capsule image acquisition device 40.

[0059] like Figure 1 As shown, the supply unit 10 includes a hopper 11 and a vibrating feeder 12. The hopper 11 is the component for dispensing transparent capsules K. The vibrating feeder 12 vibrates the transparent capsules K dispensed into the hopper 11 and supplies them to the arranging device 20. The arranging device 20 arranges the supplied transparent capsules K into a row and transfers them to the conveying unit 30.

[0060] The delivery unit 30 delivers transparent capsule K. (e.g.) Figure 1 As shown, the conveying unit 30 consists of a pair of conveying devices 31. Specifically, the conveying unit 30 has a pair of conveying devices 31, one upstream and one downstream, arranged on the conveying path of the transparent capsule K. That is, each conveying device 31 (conveyor 31A and conveyor 31B) can be said to form the upstream and downstream conveying paths C respectively, and the conveying unit 30 forms the conveying path C of the entire device.

[0061] The conveying devices 31A and 31B are identical in structure except for their different positions. Therefore, in the following description, conveying devices 31A and 31B will sometimes be collectively referred to as "conveying device 31". Furthermore, in this specification, the conveying direction of the transparent capsule K via conveying device 31 will be simply referred to as "conveying direction B".

[0062] The conveying device 31 conveys the transparent capsule K supplied from the arranging device 20. That is, the conveying device 31 forms a conveying path C that conveys the transparent capsule K from upstream to downstream.

[0063] like Figure 2 As shown in (a), the conveying device 31 has two endless loop conveyor belts 32. Additionally, as... Figure 2 As shown in (a), a gap is formed between the two conveyor belts 32 of the conveying device 31, which serves as an suction port 33. Figure 2 As shown in (a), in the transparent capsule appearance inspection device 1 of this embodiment, the suction port 33 is formed as a slit between the two conveyor belts 32. Furthermore, the conveying device 31 includes a drive unit (not shown) that drives the conveyor belts 32 and a suction box (not shown) that applies negative pressure to the suction port 33. The conveying device 31 conveys the transparent capsule K while adsorbing it using the negative pressure generated at the suction port 33.

[0064] The transparent capsule K supplied from the arrangement device 20 to the conveying unit 30 is conveyed via the conveying device 31A to the area (transfer area Ra) where the conveying devices 31A and 31B overlap in the vertical direction H. The transparent capsule K is conveyed to the transfer area Ra with its lower portion adsorbed. Furthermore, in the transfer area Ra, the transparent capsule K is transferred from the conveying device 31A to the conveying device 31B. In the transfer area Ra, the transparent capsule K becomes in a state where its upper portion is adsorbed.

[0065] Furthermore, in this embodiment, an example is shown where the suction port 33 of the delivery device 31 is formed in the shape of a slit; however, the shape of the suction port is not limited to this embodiment. For example, the suction port may also be orifice-shaped. That is, the suction port may be of any shape. Additionally, the delivery device may not necessarily be used to simultaneously absorb and deliver the transparent capsule. For example, the delivery device may also have a structure in which a recess is provided in the delivery path, the transparent capsule is embedded in the recess, and then delivered. Various methods for maintaining the transparent capsule in the delivery path can be selected for the delivery device.

[0066] The transparent capsule image acquisition device 40 captures images of the transparent capsule K on the conveying path C. For example... Figure 1 As shown, the transparent capsule appearance inspection device 1 of this embodiment is provided with two transparent capsule image acquisition devices 40. Specifically, the transparent capsule appearance inspection device 1 is provided with a transparent capsule image acquisition device 40A disposed on the upstream conveying device 31A and a transparent capsule image acquisition device 40B disposed on the downstream conveying device 31B.

[0067] In the upstream transparent capsule image acquisition device 40A, the top T of the transparent capsule K located forward Fr in the conveying direction B is photographed. In the downstream transparent capsule image acquisition device 40B, the top T of the transparent capsule K located backward Rr in the conveying direction B is photographed.

[0068] In addition, the following text will use Figure 4 The structure and functions of the transparent capsule image acquisition device 40 will be described in detail. Furthermore, in the following description, the transparent capsule image acquisition device 40A and the transparent capsule image acquisition device 40B will be collectively referred to as "transparent capsule image acquisition device 40".

[0069] The screening and recycling device 70 is equipped with various detection sensors, screening tanks, and recycling containers for screening transparent capsules K. The screening and recycling device 70 operates under the control of the control device 80, screening for defective and qualified products, recycling the defective products, and collecting the qualified products into the qualified product recycling section (not shown).

[0070] The control device 80 controls the overall operation of the device. The control device 80, as a hardware structure, includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit), RAM (Random Access Memory), and ROM (Read Only Memory), which are not shown in the diagram. In this hardware structure, the CPU performs calculations according to a predetermined program, and the control device 80 executes actions corresponding to the read program. For example, the control device 80 controls the operation of various components such as the conveying unit 30, the arranging device 20, the transparent capsule image acquisition device 40, and the screening and recycling device 70.

[0071] For example, the control device 80 controls the transparent capsule image acquisition device 40 to photograph the top T of the transparent capsule K during the process of conveying the transparent capsule K through the conveying device 31A (on the conveying path C). In addition, the control device 80 uses the image captured by the transparent capsule image acquisition device 40 to detect whether there are foreign objects or the like attached to the top T (visual inspection).

[0072] For transparent capsule image acquisition devices

[0073] Next, refer to Figure 4 The transparent capsule image acquisition device 40 will be described below. Figure 4 As shown, the transparent capsule K is conveyed along the conveying direction B of the conveying path C in the long axis direction G. The transparent capsule image acquisition device 40 acquires an image of the transparent capsule K (see reference). Figure 6 (b)).

[0074] Here, examples illustrate the appearance characteristics, types, and sizes of transparent capsule K. Transparent capsule K includes, for example, formulations referred to as "elongated oval tablets" (see [reference]). Figure 3 (a) Formulations referred to as "oval tablets" (see reference) Figure 3 (b) An elongated elliptical capsule refers to a transparent capsule that has an elongated oval appearance when viewed from above. An elongated elliptical capsule is a transparent capsule whose central portion (body portion Ka) along the long axis G is cylindrical, and whose two ends have hemispherical portions (top T). An elliptical capsule is a transparent capsule that has an elliptical appearance when viewed from above. An elliptical capsule is a transparent capsule with a rugby ball-shaped appearance formed by radially bulging from the central portion between one end and the other along the long axis G. For example, most transparent capsules K are provided with a length (total length La) of approximately 12 to 28 mm along the long axis G and a diameter Lb of approximately 5 to 10 mm.

[0075] Furthermore, these are just examples. For instance, the transparent capsule K of the object being photographed by the transparent capsule image acquisition device 40 of the present invention can be flat or spherical. Figure 3 (a) and Figure 3 As shown in (b), the transparent capsule K has a main body Ka at the center of its long axis G. Furthermore, the transparent capsule K has curved tops T at both ends of its long axis G. The transparent capsule K has tops T formed at both ends of its main body Ka.

[0076] As described in detail below, the transparent capsule image acquisition device 40 directs diffused light Li2 into one of the top points T at both ends of the transparent capsule K located at the shooting position P1. In this specification, the top point T of the incident light at both ends of the transparent capsule K is referred to as the "incident top point Ta", and the top point T of the other end is referred to as the "shooting top point Tb".

[0077] like Figure 4 As shown, the transparent capsule image acquisition device 40 includes an imaging device 50, an illumination device 60, and a diffusion component 62. Additionally, the transparent capsule image acquisition device 40 includes a reflector 64 (see reference). Figure 11 ).

[0078] In the transparent capsule image acquisition apparatus 40 of this embodiment, the reflector 55, the illumination device 60, and the diffuser 62, described below, are mounted on the support member 41, forming an illumination unit. Furthermore, in the transparent capsule image acquisition apparatus 40 of this embodiment, the illumination unit and the camera unit 54, described below, can be installed and removed on the transport path C. Therefore, the transparent capsule image acquisition apparatus 40 can fully utilize the existing transport device 31 and function as an appearance inspection device for transparent capsules K.

[0079] The transport path C forms the plane for transporting the transparent capsule K. In this specification, the imaginary plane containing and parallel to the transport path C will be simply referred to as the "transport surface F". Furthermore, the centerline parallel to the transport direction B and passing through the center of the transport path C will be simply referred to as the "transport path centerline Lc".

[0080] In this specification, the direction from the shooting position P1 toward the image acquisition position P2 (described below) in the direction opposite to the transport direction B will be referred to as "second direction X2". Conversely, the direction from the shooting position P1 toward the illumination unit 63 in the direction opposite to the transport direction B will be referred to as "first direction X1".

[0081] In this specification, the direction orthogonal to and away from conveyor path C is referred to as "far-end direction Y1". The direction orthogonal to conveyor path C and opposite to far-end direction Y1 is referred to as "near-end direction Y2".

[0082] In this specification, the view of conveyor path C from the width direction is referred to as "side view". The view from the near end direction Y2 is referred to as "top view". The view along the first direction X1 is referred to as "front view". The left-right direction (the width direction of conveyor path C) during the front view is simply referred to as "left-right direction W". The position to the left of the centerline Lc of the conveyor path during the front or top view is simply referred to as "left". The position to the right of the centerline Lc of the conveyor path during the front or top view is simply referred to as "right".

[0083] For the shooting device

[0084] The imaging device 50 captures an image of the transparent capsule K when it reaches the imaging position P1 on the transport path C. More specifically, the imaging device 50 captures an image of the transparent capsule K as observed from a specific position (image acquisition position P2) at the exact moment the transparent capsule K, transported on the transport path C, reaches the imaging position P1.

[0085] The shooting position P1 is the position on the transport path C. It can be said that shooting position P1 is a fixed position for photographing the transported transparent capsule K. It can also be said that shooting position P1 is the position of the top of the transparent capsule K when the shooting device 50 begins to photograph the transparent capsule K.

[0086] like Figure 4 As shown, the shooting device 50 includes a shooting unit 51 (camera) and a reflector 55. Figure 6 As shown in (a), in this embodiment, the shooting device 50 includes a shooting unit 51 and a plurality of reflectors 55 (reflectors 55a, 55b, 55c, 55d). In addition, in this embodiment, the shooting unit 51 is provided in the camera unit 54.

[0087] The imaging unit 51 is a camera capable of capturing images of an object. In this embodiment, the imaging unit 51 is a line scan camera. The line scan camera captures images in a line while moving the object, and obtains an image by combining the captured line images. Alternatively, the transparent capsule image acquisition device of the present invention can also use other cameras as the imaging unit. For example, the imaging unit can also be a region camera that captures and captures images of an object in a planar manner.

[0088] like Figure 4 As shown, the imaging unit 51 is positioned at a point where it separates from the transport path C in the distal direction Y1. Additionally, as... Figure 4 As shown, the shooting unit 51 is configured to separate from the shooting position P1 in the second direction X2.

[0089] The reflector 55 reflects the image of the transparent capsule K and directs that image into the imaging unit 51. For example... Figure 6 As shown in (a), the imaging device 50 includes reflectors 55a and 55b disposed on the left and reflectors 55c and 55d disposed on the right. That is, the imaging device 50 of this embodiment has reflectors 55 disposed on both the left and right sides. Figure 6 As shown in (a), mirror 55a reflects the image of the transparent capsule K as viewed from the left. Mirror 55b reflects the image so that the image reflected by mirror 55a enters the imaging unit 51. Mirror 55c reflects the image of the transparent capsule K as viewed from the right. Mirror 55d reflects the image so that the image reflected by mirror 55c enters the imaging unit 51.

[0090] In this manner, the imaging device 50 reflects the image of the transparent capsule K observed from the positions where the reflectors 55a and 55c are located using reflectors 55b and 55d, and directs it into each imaging unit 51. In other words, in this embodiment, the light entering the imaging unit 51 forms a path that is bent at the position where the reflector 55 is located. The imaging device 50 reflects the image of the transparent capsule K observed from the position where the reflector 55a is located using reflector 55b, and captures and acquires it using the imaging unit 51. Additionally, the imaging device 50 reflects the image of the transparent capsule K observed from the position where the reflector 55c is located using reflector 55d, and captures and acquires it using the imaging unit 51.

[0091] That is, the positions where reflectors 55a and 55c are located can be considered as image acquisition positions P2 for the imaging device 50 to acquire images of the transparent capsule K. In other words, image acquisition position P2 can be considered as the visual confirmation position of the top Tb (transparent capsule K) of the imaging head captured by the imaging unit 51. In this way, it can be said that the imaging device 50 captures images of the transparent capsule K by reflecting light passing through the transparent capsule K or light reflected from the transparent capsule K at one or more positions including image acquisition position P2.

[0092] In this embodiment, images observed from the left and from the right are captured on the transparent capsule K that has reached the shooting position P1. In other words, in this embodiment, two image acquisition positions P2 are set for one shooting position P1. In this specification, the image acquisition position P2 (the position where the reflector 55a is disposed) that is located on the left side relative to the shooting position P1 in the main view is referred to as "first image acquisition position P2a". In this specification, the image acquisition position P2 (the position where the reflector 55c is disposed) that is located on the right side relative to the shooting position P1 in the main view is referred to as "second image acquisition position P2b".

[0093] like Figure 5 As shown, the first image acquisition position P2a is positioned to the left of the conveyor path centerline Lc and at an angle to the conveyor path C when viewed from above (left oblique). The second image acquisition position P2b is positioned to the right of the conveyor path centerline Lc and at an angle to the conveyor path C when viewed from above (right oblique). Thus, the imaging device 50 is configured to capture images of the top of the imaging head Tb from both the left oblique first image acquisition position P2a and the right oblique second image acquisition position P2b. That is, the imaging device 50 captures images of the top of the imaging head Tb from two directions.

[0094] Based on the above structure, the imaging device 50 of this embodiment acquires an image I including an image of the transparent capsule K viewed from the left and an image of the transparent capsule K viewed from the right. For detailed explanation, see below. Figure 6 As shown in (b), the image I acquired by the imaging unit 51 includes a first image Ia observed from the first image acquisition position P2a and a second image Ib observed from the second image acquisition position P2b.

[0095] Additionally, images Ia and Ib each include a transparent capsule image It. Specifically, as... Figure 6 As shown in (b), the first image Ia, as an image of the transparent capsule K observed from the first image acquisition position P2a, includes the first transparent capsule image Id. Additionally, the second image Ib, as an image of the transparent capsule K observed from the second image acquisition position P2b, includes the second transparent capsule image Ie. Furthermore, if a foreign object U is attached to the top Tb of the transparent capsule K (refer to...) Figure 6 (a)), then the foreign object portion Iu will be displayed in image I. Figure 6 (b)).

[0096] Furthermore, in this embodiment, an image I is acquired comprising an image of the transparent capsule K viewed from the left and an image of the transparent capsule K viewed from the right. However, the transparent capsule image acquisition apparatus of the present invention is not limited to this embodiment. For example, the images of the transparent capsule K viewed from the left and the transparent capsule K viewed from the right may be acquired as separate images. Alternatively, the apparatus may be configured to merge the images of the transparent capsule K viewed from the left and the transparent capsule K viewed from the right into a single image using image processing.

[0097] In the following description, the path through which light enters the imaging unit 51 will be referred to as "injection path L1". Injection path L1 can be described as, for example, the path through which light from the subject (e.g., the transparent capsule K, the reflector 55) enters the imaging unit 51. Furthermore, in the following description, the injection path L1 at the first image acquisition position P2a will be referred to as "first injection path L1a", and the injection path L1 at the second image acquisition position P2b will be referred to as "second injection path L1b". The first injection path L1a can be described as the path through which light from the transparent capsule K, as observed from the left, enters the imaging unit 51. The second injection path L1b can be described as the path through which light from the transparent capsule K, as observed from the right, enters the imaging unit 51.

[0098] Next, we will provide a more detailed explanation of the image acquisition position P2 and the angle of the injection path L1. For example... Figure 7As shown in (a), each image acquisition position P2 is located at a position separated from the shooting position P1 in the second direction X2. Therefore, the imaging device 50 is configured to capture the transparent capsule K as observed from each image acquisition position P2, which are positions separated from the shooting position P1 in the second direction X2.

[0099] The imaging device 50 is capable of imaging the top Tb of the imaging head, including the top Kb and the entire circumference Kc around it. Furthermore, as... Figure 8 As shown in (a), it can be said that "the whole circumference Kc around the top Kb" is the part (top part) of the top Tb of the shooting head that is surrounded by the top Kb of the shooting head.

[0100] In this embodiment, as described above, the imaging unit 51 is a line scan camera. The transparent capsule K is photographed at the contact point or intersection with the injection path L1 during delivery. Therefore, the imaging range R of the imaging device 50 is the range where the transparent capsule K, the object of the photograph, has a contact point or intersection with the injection path L1.

[0101] Specifically, such as Figure 8 As shown in (b), the imaging range R of the transparent capsule K on the left is the area having a contact point or intersection with the first injection path L1a (first imaging range R1). Furthermore, the imaging range R of the transparent capsule K on the right is the area having a contact point or intersection with the second injection path L1b (second imaging range R2). Moreover, the imaging device 50 images the top of the imaging head Tb in a manner where the first imaging range R1 and the second imaging range R2 overlap (with an overlap range R3).

[0102] like Figure 7 As shown in (a), the image acquisition position P2 is located offset from the conveyor path C in the left-right direction W. That is, the image acquisition position P2 is set at a position offset from the centerline Lc of the conveyor path. Therefore, as Figure 7 As shown in (a), the injection path L1 from the top of the camera head Tb to the image acquisition position P2 is configured such that it forms an angle with the center line Lc of the delivery path when viewed from above. Therefore, the imaging device 50 can image the top of the head T without obstructing the path of the transparent capsule K. In the following description, the angle between the injection path L1 from the top of the camera head Tb to the image acquisition position P2 and the center line Lc of the delivery path when viewed from above will be referred to as the "opening angle D1".

[0103] Furthermore, the opening angle D1 can be an angle capable of capturing the top Kb and its entire surrounding circumference Kc. Preferably, the opening angle D1 is configured such that the overlap range R3 is increased. This suppresses blind spots and allows for capturing the top Tb of the camera. However, if the opening angle D1 is increased, blind spots may occur. Conversely, if the opening angle D1 is decreased, the portion of the surrounding circumference Kc that can be captured becomes wider. Therefore, a smaller opening angle D1 is preferred (preferably, a smaller angle between the centerline Lc of the delivery path and the injection path L1).

[0104] On the other hand, the shape of the top T of the transparent capsule K is varied. Preferably, the opening angle D1 can match various shapes of the transparent capsule K (e.g., elongated oval tablets, oval tablets).

[0105] As a structure that can enlarge the area around the entire circumference Kc that can be photographed and can be matched with transparent capsule K of various shapes, for example, the opening angle D1 can be below 55 degrees. If the opening angle D1 is set below 55 degrees (for example, set in the range of 25 to 55 degrees), it can be matched with various transparent capsule K and the entire circumference Kc can be photographed over a larger range. Thus, it can be matched with various transparent capsule K and blind spots can be suppressed.

[0106] Furthermore, the opening angle D1 can be configured in a way that does not obstruct the path of the transparent capsule K on the transport path C. For example, if the opening angle D1 is set to 15 degrees or more, the image acquisition position P2 can be configured without obstructing the path of the transparent capsule K.

[0107] Furthermore, the opening angle D1 can be less than 15 degrees. For example, if the imaging unit and reflector can be installed in a position facing the transport path, the opening angle D1 can be set to 0 degrees to less than 15 degrees. For example, if the imaging unit and reflector are installed in a curved section of the transport path C, even if the imaging unit and reflector are installed in a position facing the transport path, the possibility of obstructing the passage of the transparent capsule is small, so the opening angle D1 can be set to less than 15 degrees.

[0108] Next, the angle between the injection path L1 and the transport surface F will be explained. In the following explanation, the angle between the injection path L1, from the top of the camera head Tb to the image acquisition position P2, and the transport surface F will sometimes be referred to simply as the "pitch angle D2". (Refer to...) Figure 7 (b) Explanation of the pitch angle D2. Figure 7 (b) is the plane that passes through the injection path L1 and is orthogonal to the delivery surface F. Figure 7 (a) The direction of the line A1-A1 in the orthogonal direction ( Figure 7 (a) Schematic diagram observed in direction A3).

[0109] It can be said that the dimension of the elevation angle D2 is the dimension of the angle at which the transparent capsule K is viewed from above or below. For example... Figure 7 As shown in (b), the pitch angle D2 is a small angle relative to the conveying surface F. In other words, the imaging device 50 images the transparent capsule K from a viewpoint close to the conveying surface F. The pitch angle D2 is a smaller angle (i.e., less than ±45 degrees) than the angle formed with the conveying surface F and the straight line extending in the distal direction Y1. Therefore, the imaging device 50 is configured to image the transparent capsule K from a lateral viewpoint. In other words, the imaging device 50 is configured to image the transparent capsule K laterally.

[0110] In this specification, the direction relative to the conveying surface F, either horizontal or at an angle less than a specified value (less than ±45 degrees), is sometimes simply referred to as "lateral E". Lateral E is, for example, an angle with respect to the conveying surface F that is smaller than the angle with the straight line extending in the distal direction Y1 (i.e., less than ±45 degrees). Lateral E is, for example, the direction from which the object (transparent capsule K) is viewed laterally. Lateral E is, for example, any angle from the conveying surface F that is 0 degrees, less than +45 degrees (a depression angle less than 45 degrees), or less than -45 degrees (an elevation angle less than 45 degrees). For example, when observing the transparent capsule K from lateral E, more side surfaces are visible compared to the surface above the transparent capsule K.

[0111] The pitch angle D2 can be the angle that allows the entire surrounding area Kc to be captured. If the pitch angle D2 is large, there will be a deviation in the portion of the surrounding area Kc that can be captured. Conversely, if the pitch angle D2 is small, the portion of the surrounding area Kc that can be captured becomes larger. Therefore, if the pitch angle D2 is reduced, the surrounding area Kc that can be captured is expanded, thereby suppressing blind spots. For example, the pitch angle D2 can be 30 degrees or less; if it is 20 degrees or less, blind spots can be further suppressed, which is therefore preferred.

[0112] In this embodiment, an example is shown in which the pitch angle D2 is configured as the angle (pitch angle) looking down at the transparent capsule K in the proximal direction Y2. However, the pitch angle D2 can also be configured as the angle (elevation angle) looking up at the transparent capsule K in the distal direction Y1.

[0113] Furthermore, during side-view observation, the angle (side-view angle D3) between the injection path L1 and the conveying surface F, even when the pitch angle D2 is the same, will vary depending on the opening angle D1 and the position of the image acquisition position P2. For example... Figure 7 As shown in (c), in this embodiment, the side view angle D3 is configured to be a lateral E. Furthermore, the side view angle D3 is greater than or equal to the pitch angle D2.

[0114] In this way, the imaging device 50 is configured to capture images of the top Tb of the imaging head from a horizontal perspective E. Therefore, the imaging device 50 can suppress blind spots and capture images of the top Tb of the imaging head. Thus, the imaging device 50 is configured to capture images of the top Tb of the imaging head, illuminated by the illumination unit 63 from inside the transparent capsule K, within a range (imaging range R) that includes at least the top Kb of the imaging head and its entire circumference Kc. Therefore, the transparent capsule image acquisition device 40 can suppress blind spots and improve the accuracy of foreign object detection.

[0115] Furthermore, the imaging device 50 repeatedly captures images of the top tip Kb of the imaging head Tb within a first imaging range R1 at the first image acquisition position P2a and a second imaging range R2 at the second image acquisition position P2b. Moreover, the imaging device 50 is configured to capture images of the top tip Tb of the imaging head, illuminated from within the transparent capsule K by the illumination unit 63, within a range encompassing the entire circumference Kc, using images of the transparent capsule K at the first image acquisition position P2a and the second image acquisition position P2b.

[0116] Therefore, the transparent capsule image acquisition device 40 can capture images of the top Tb of the transparent capsule K from both the first image acquisition position P2a (left oblique) and the second image acquisition position P2b (right oblique). Furthermore, the transparent capsule image acquisition device 40 captures images such that the top Kb of the top Tb is included in both the first image acquisition position P2a and the second image acquisition position P2b, and can acquire an image I that covers the entire circumference Kc surrounding the top Kb of the top Tb. Thus, the transparent capsule image acquisition device 40 can capture images of one of the tops Tb at both ends of the transparent capsule K without any blind spots. As a result, the transparent capsule image acquisition device 40 can improve the accuracy of the visual inspection of the transparent capsule K.

[0117] Furthermore, this embodiment shows an example of providing one imaging unit 51 and multiple reflectors 55 for one imaging position P1, but the transparent capsule image acquisition device of the present invention is not limited to this embodiment. For example, multiple imaging units may be provided for one imaging position. For example, two imaging units may be provided for one imaging position: a first imaging unit corresponding to a first image acquisition position and a second imaging unit corresponding to a second image acquisition position. Moreover, for example, imaging units may be provided at the image acquisition position without providing reflectors. In addition, the number of reflectors can be appropriately selected. For example, one reflector may be provided at one image acquisition position, or three or more reflectors may be provided. In this way, the number of imaging units and the number of reflectors provided for one imaging position can be appropriately selected.

[0118] For lighting fixtures and diffuser components

[0119] like Figure 4 As shown, the lighting device 60 includes a light source 61 for illuminating light. The lighting device 60 may use an LED as a light source, for example. However, the light source is not limited to LEDs; other light sources (such as lasers) may also be used. Figure 4 As shown, the lighting device 60 is positioned at a location separating from the transport path C in the distal direction Y1. Additionally, the lighting device 60 is positioned at a location separating from the shooting position P1 in the first direction X1. Figure 4 As shown, the light source 61 is arranged side by side with the end of the lighting device 60 located in the proximal direction Y2.

[0120] like Figure 4 As shown, the lighting device 60 is positioned at a point separating from the shooting position P1 in the first direction X1. Figure 4 As shown, the lighting device 60 is positioned at a point Y1 further away from the conveyor path C and more distally than the diffuser 62 in the Y1 direction. Figure 4 As shown, the illumination device 60 is positioned offset from the position opposite to the transparent capsule K when the transparent capsule K reaches the shooting position P1. The illumination device 60 is positioned closer to the top of the shooting head Ta side than the top of the shooting head Tb when the transparent capsule K reaches the shooting position P1.

[0121] The diffuser 62 is a component that diffuses light. Specifically, the diffuser 62 is a component that diffuses light emanating from the lighting device 60. The diffuser 62 is, for example, a milky-white component. The diffuser 62 covers a portion of the transport path C. Figure 4 As shown, the diffusion component 62 is positioned to cover a predetermined distance from the shooting position P1 towards the second direction X2 in the transport path C. Additionally, as... Figure 9 As shown, the diffuser 62 has a semi-circular cross-section. That is, the diffuser 62 is formed in a tunnel shape to cover a portion of the conveying path C. Figure 4 As shown, the diffuser 62 has a notch at the end located in the second direction X2.

[0122] like Figure 9 As shown, if the length of the distal direction Y1 of the diffuser 62 when viewed from the front is taken as the height Ld, then the height Ld is larger than the diameter Lb of the transparent capsule K. The diffuser 62 can be configured such that the separation distance (gap S) between it and the transparent capsule K is small. Therefore, in the image of the transparent capsule K, the portion reflected by the diffuser 62 is enlarged, and the reflection of other components is suppressed. For example, the diffuser 62 can be configured such that the height Ld is smaller than the total length La of the transparent capsule K. Furthermore, the height Ld of the diffuser 62 can be, for example, less than twice the diameter Lb of the transparent capsule K. Moreover, as... Figure 11 As shown, the total length Lg of the diffusion member 62 is greater than or equal to the total length (illumination length Le) of the illumination device 60. Therefore, the transparent capsule image acquisition device 40 can more effectively suppress other structures from being reflected as background.

[0123] The illumination unit 63 irradiates diffused light Li2 that is irradiated in a substantially uniform manner. In this embodiment, the illumination unit 63 irradiates the light Li1 of the light source 61 provided in the illumination device 60 by means of a portion of the diffusion member 62 as diffused light Li2 (see reference). Figure 10 In other words, in this embodiment, the portion of the light Li1 from the illumination device 60 that illuminates the diffuser 62 functions as an illumination part 63 that illuminates the diffused light Li2.

[0124] Furthermore, the transparent capsule image acquisition device of the present invention is not limited to this embodiment, and the illumination unit may also adopt other structures. For example, the illumination unit may also be a component that integrates the light source and the diffusion component of the illumination device. That is, the illumination unit may also adopt a structure different from the diffusion component.

[0125] As described above, the illumination device 60 is positioned further distally in the Y1 direction than the diffusion member 62, irradiating light Li1 in the proximal direction Y2 (towards the diffusion member 62). Therefore, the portion of the illumination device 60 in the diffusion member 62 facing the transport path C in the proximal direction Y2 functions as the illumination section 63. In this way, the illumination device 60 irradiates diffused light Li2 from the illumination section 63, which is positioned facing the transport path C, for the transparent capsule K transported on the transport path C.

[0126] It can be said that the lighting unit 63 is configured according to the position of the lighting device 60. That is, as Figure 4 As shown, the illumination unit 63 is positioned at a location separated from the shooting position P1 in the first direction X1. The illumination unit 63 is configured at a position separated from the transport path C in the distal direction Y1. The illumination unit 63 is positioned offset from a position facing the transparent capsule K when the transparent capsule K arrives at the shooting position P1. The illumination unit 63 is positioned closer to the tip of the camera head Tb than the tip of the camera head Ta when the transparent capsule K arrives at the shooting position P1. In this way, the illumination unit 63 is positioned relative to the shooting position P1 in the first direction X1 and facing the transport path C (the position behind the transparent capsule K when viewed from the image acquisition position P2, and the position of the roof when the transport path C is the ground).

[0127] Therefore, the illumination device 60 can project diffused light Li2 from a different point on the head T (the point of entry for the camera) than the point of entry for the camera T (the point of entry for the camera Tb) onto the transparent capsule K at the shooting position P1, illuminating the point of entry for the camera Tb from the inside. In other words, the illumination device 60 is configured such that the illumination unit 63 causes diffused light Li2 to enter the transparent capsule K from the point of entry for the camera Tb located at the shooting position P1 via the point of entry for the camera Tb (see reference). Figure 10 ).

[0128] In this way, in the transparent capsule image acquisition device 40, light (diffuse light Li2) from the illumination unit 63, which is illuminated approximately uniformly, can enter from the top T of one side of the head (the head Ta that is being photographed). This light is refracted or reflected inside the transparent capsule K, thus brightly illuminating the top T of the other side of the head (the head Tb that is being photographed). This allows for approximately uniform and bright illumination of the top T of the transparent capsule K and subsequent photographing. Furthermore, as described above, in the transparent capsule image acquisition device 40, the top Tb of the photographed head is photographed within a range including the top Kb of the photographed head and its surrounding circumference Kc, thereby suppressing blind spots and accurately photographing the top Tb. As a result, the transparent capsule image acquisition device 40 can acquire images that accurately detect foreign objects, damage, etc., attached to the top T of the transparent capsule K.

[0129] like Figure 9 As shown, in this embodiment, two lighting devices 60 are provided. More specifically, the two lighting devices 60 are arranged in a V-shape when viewed from the main viewpoint. In addition, the two lighting devices 60 are arranged with the ends (ends in the proximal direction Y2) where the light sources 61 are provided inclined toward the centerline Lc of the transport path.

[0130] Therefore, the illumination device 60 can concentrate the light Li1 onto the portion (illumination section 63) of the diffusion member 62 that faces the transport path C and is separated from it in the first direction X1. Thus, the diffusion member 62 is configured such that the portion (illumination section 63) irradiated by the light Li1 from the illumination device 60 is brighter than other portions. As a result, the illumination device 60 can concentrate the light onto the left and right centers of the illumination section 63.

[0131] As described above, the illumination unit 63 illuminates the diffused light Li2 with the aid of a portion of the diffusion member 62. It can be said that if the portion of the diffusion member 62 facing the transparent capsule K when it reaches the shooting position P1 is considered the transparent capsule facing portion 62a, then the portion deviating from the transparent capsule facing portion 62a (the transparent capsule non-facing portion 62b) functions as the illumination unit 63 (see reference). Figure 10 ).

[0132] like Figure 10 As shown, the illumination device 60 is configured to concentrate light Li1 onto the non-facing portion 62b (illumination portion 63) of the transparent capsule in the diffusion member 62, thereby brightly illuminating the illumination portion 63. From the opposite perspective, it can be said that the illumination portion 63 is brighter than the facing portion 62a of the transparent capsule. Furthermore, it can be said that the non-facing portion 62b of the transparent capsule is the portion that illuminates the outside of the transparent capsule K from a position facing it.

[0133] Therefore, it can be said that the brightness of the illumination unit 63 illuminating the top of the head Ta from the outside of the transparent capsule K is stronger than the brightness of the top of the head Tb (the brightness of the transparent capsule facing part 62a) illuminating from the outside of the transparent capsule K. Furthermore, it can be said that the imaging device 50 is configured to photograph the transparent capsule K under the condition that the brightness of the top of the head Ta illuminating from the outside of the transparent capsule K is stronger than the brightness of the top of the head Tb illuminating from the outside of the transparent capsule K.

[0134] Therefore, the transparent capsule image acquisition device 40 can brightly illuminate the top of the head Tb in a way that makes it conspicuous. As a result, the transparent capsule image acquisition device 40 can acquire images of the transparent capsule K that can more accurately detect foreign objects, damage, etc. attached to the top of the head T.

[0135] like Figure 4 As shown, the illumination device 60 has a predetermined length (total illumination length Le) in the transport direction B. The total illumination length Le of the illumination device 60 is at least equal to the total length La of the transparent capsule K. It can be said that the illumination section 63 has a length (total illumination length Le) corresponding to the total length of the illumination device 60. That is, the total length (total illumination length Le) of the illumination section 63 in the direction extending along the transport path C is at least equal to the total length La of the transparent capsule K. Therefore, the transparent capsule image acquisition device 40 can brightly illuminate the top Tb of the imaging head over a wider area.

[0136] like Figure 11 As shown, the reflector 64 is provided to cover the gap between a pair of conveyor belts 32. In other words, the reflector 64 is configured to cover the suction port 33 on the conveying path C. The reflector 64 is provided to suppress the negative pressure of the suction port 33. Therefore, it can be said that if the gap (suction port 33) formed in the gap of the conveying path C that can adsorb the transparent capsule K is taken as the suction area 65, then the part where the reflector 64 is provided is the part where the suction port 33 that can adsorb the transparent capsule K is not provided (non-suction area 66). That is, in the transparent capsule image acquisition device 40 of this embodiment, the conveying path C is provided with a suction area 65 that serves as the suction port 33 for adsorbing the transparent capsule K and a non-suction area 66 where the suction port 33 is not provided.

[0137] The reflector 64 is a component of approximately the same color (e.g., white) as the transport path C. The reflector 64 is positioned within the image of the transparent capsule K included when it is photographed. That is, the reflector 64 (non-attractive area 66) forms the position where the transparent capsule K is photographed.

[0138] The position and length of the reflector 64 are preferably configured to minimize its impact on the adsorption of the transparent capsule K and to suppress the reflection of the suction port 33 when photographing the transparent capsule K. For example, as Figure 11 As shown, the length of the reflector 64 in the conveying direction B (total length Lf of the reflector) can be configured to be smaller than the total length La of the transparent capsule K. Alternatively, for example, the total length Lf of the reflector can be set to be approximately the same size as the diameter Lb of the transparent capsule K.

[0139] Furthermore, the reflector 64 can be positioned at a location separating it from the shooting position P1 in the first direction X1. For example, as... Figure 11 As shown, the reflector 64 can be positioned at a location that deviates from the transparent capsule K in the first direction X1 when the transparent capsule K reaches the imaging position P1. Alternatively, for example, the reflector 64 can be positioned at a location that deviates from the position opposite the illumination unit 63 in the second direction X2. Therefore, the transparent capsule image acquisition device 40 can suppress the shadow cast by the suction port 33 on the transport path C, thereby enabling more accurate detection of foreign objects or the like attached to the transparent capsule K.

[0140] As described above, the transparent capsule appearance inspection device 1 includes two transparent capsule image acquisition devices 40. In the upstream transparent capsule image acquisition device 40A, an image is taken of the top T of the transparent capsule K located in front of Fr in the conveying direction B (see reference). Figure 12 (a)).

[0141] Additionally, in the downstream transparent capsule image acquisition device 40B, the top T of the tops of both ends of the transparent capsule K, located rearward Rr in the transport direction B, is photographed (see reference). Figure 12 (b)). Furthermore, the transparent capsule image acquisition device 40B and the transparent capsule image acquisition device 40A are identical in structure except for the configuration of each structure (up and down, left and right positions).

[0142] In this way, the transparent capsule appearance inspection device 1 photographs the top T of the head of the front Fr from two directions (from the first image acquisition position P2a and the second image acquisition position P2b), and photographs the top T of the rear Rr from two directions (from the first image acquisition position P2a and the second image acquisition position P2b). That is, the transparent capsule appearance inspection device 1 photographs the top T of both ends of the transparent capsule K from two directions, a total of four directions. Thus, the transparent capsule appearance inspection device 1 can photograph the top T of both ends of the transparent capsule K without blind spots.

[0143] The above describes one embodiment of the present invention, but the specific methods that the present invention can take are not limited to any of the above embodiments.

[0144] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0145] 31: Conveying device; 33: Suction port; 40: Transparent capsule image acquisition device; 50: Imaging device; 51: Imaging section; 55: Reflector; 60: Illumination device; 61: Light source; 62: Diffusion component; 63: Illumination section; 64: Reflector (non-suction area); 65: Suction area; 66: Non-suction area; B: Conveying direction; C: Conveying path; G: Long axis direction; I: Image; K: Transparent capsule; Kb: Top; Kc: Surrounding circumference; Li2: Diffused light; P1: Imaging position; P2: Image acquisition position; P2a: First image acquisition position; P2b: Second image acquisition position; R: Imaging range; R1: First imaging range; R2: Second imaging range; T: Top of head; Ta: Injected into the top of head; Tb: Imaging the top of head; X1: First direction; X2: Second direction.

Claims

1. A transparent capsule image acquisition device, comprising a top end formed as a curved surface at both ends along its long axis, and capable of acquiring images of a transparent capsule that is translucent to light, characterized in that, Possessing: a photographing device that photographs the transparent capsule that is conveyed on a conveying path formed by a conveying device when the transparent capsule reaches a photographing position located on the conveying path; and an illuminating device that irradiates diffuse light from an illuminating section disposed in a manner facing the conveying path with respect to the transparent capsule that is conveyed on the conveying path, the illuminating device is configured to cause the diffuse light to be emitted from one of the top sections of both ends of the transparent capsule at the photographing position into the transparent capsule and to be emitted from the other of the photographing top sections into the transparent capsule by the illuminating section, the photographing device is configured to photograph the photographing top section that is irradiated from the transparent capsule by the illuminating section in a range including at least the top end of the photographing top section and the entire circumference around it.

2. The transparent capsule image acquisition device according to claim 1, wherein the illuminating section is configured to irradiate the emission top section from the outside of the transparent capsule at a higher intensity than the photographing top section.

3. The transparent capsule image acquisition device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the photographing device is configured to photograph the transparent capsule in a state in which the emission top section is irradiated from the outside of the transparent capsule at a higher intensity than the photographing top section.

4. The transparent capsule image acquisition device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the illuminating section is disposed at a position closer to the emission top section than the top end of the photographing top section at the time when the transparent capsule reaches the photographing position.

5. The transparent capsule image acquisition device according to claim 4, wherein the illuminating section is disposed at a position deviated from a position facing the transparent capsule at the time when the transparent capsule reaches the photographing position.

6. The transparent capsule image acquisition device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the illuminating section has a distance of more than a length in the long axis direction of the transparent capsule in an extension direction of the conveying path.

7. The transparent capsule image acquisition device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the photographing device is configured to photograph the photographing top section from both a first image acquisition position at a left oblique side and a second image acquisition position at a right oblique side, the top end of the photographing top section is repeatedly photographed in a photographing range at the first image acquisition position and a photographing range at the second image acquisition position, the photographing top section that is irradiated from the transparent capsule by the illuminating section is photographed in a range including the entire circumference around the top end of the photographing top section by an image of the transparent capsule at the first image acquisition position and an image of the transparent capsule at the second image acquisition position.

8. The transparent capsule image acquisition device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the transparent capsule image acquisition device has a diffusion member that covers at least a part of the conveying path and diffuses light, The illumination section illuminates the diffused light by irradiating light from a light source of the illumination device with a portion of the diffusing member.

9. The transparent capsule image acquisition apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein The transparent capsules are conveyed in a manner that the long axis direction is along a conveying direction of the conveying path, The illumination section is provided at a position separated from the photographing position in a first direction that is the conveying direction or a direction opposite to the conveying direction, The photographing device is configured to photograph the transparent capsules observed from an image acquisition position that is a position separated from the photographing position in a second direction that is opposite to the first direction.

10. The transparent capsule image acquisition apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein An attraction area that is an attraction port that attracts the transparent capsules and a non-attraction area that is not provided with the attraction port are provided on the conveying path, The non-attraction area is constituted at a position where the transparent capsules are photographed.

Images