Semi-automatic medicine bottle tagging and identifying all-in-one machine

Abstract

The embodiment of the invention discloses a semi-automatic medicine bottle tagging and identifying all-in-one machine. According to one specific embodiment, the device comprises a label discharging device which comprises a label discharging driving mechanism and a label discharging guiding mechanism, the label discharging driving mechanism can drive a label belt to move, the label discharging guiding mechanism is arranged on a label discharging path of the label discharging driving mechanism, and each label in the label belt is printed with a unique identification code; the label discharging sensor is arranged at the tail end of the label discharging guide mechanism; the label counter is in communication connection with the label output sensor and is used for counting the output labels; a plurality of medicine bottles can be placed on the tray, and a label is attached to each medicine bottle; the identification assembly is located above the tray and can collect the traceability code and the label of each medicine bottle in the tray; the key is started to control the identification assembly to collect the labels of the medicine bottles in the tray; and the control assembly can construct an association relationship between the traceability code and the label of each medicine bottle. According to the embodiment, the association efficiency of associating the traceability code with the multiple labels can be improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The embodiments disclosed herein relate to the field of medical drug management technology, specifically to a semi-automated integrated machine for coding and identifying medicine bottles. Background Technology

[0002] In the healthcare industry, the labeling and management of medicine bottles is a crucial step in ensuring drug safety, tracing drug origins, and improving healthcare efficiency. To guarantee patient medication safety and achieve accurate traceability, each medicine bottle typically needs a label containing a unique identification code, which is then linked to the drug traceability code on the original drug packaging. Currently, traditional bottle labeling and information linking usually involves scanning the label of each bottle and linking it to the drug traceability code.

[0003] However, in practice, it has been found that when using the above method to associate the labels of medicine bottles with the drug traceability codes, it is inefficient to associate the medicine bottles with the drug traceability codes by scanning them one by one. This is especially true in warehouse pharmacies, where it is necessary to establish associations between a large number of medicine bottles and drug traceability codes. Scanning them one by one wastes a lot of time and often results in inefficient technical problems.

[0004] The information disclosed in this background section is only intended to enhance the understanding of the background of the inventive concept, and therefore may contain information that does not constitute prior art known to those skilled in the art. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The summary portion of this disclosure is intended to provide a brief overview of the concepts, which will be described in detail in the detailed description portion. This summary portion is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed technical solutions, nor is it intended to limit the scope of the claimed technical solutions.

[0006] Some embodiments of this disclosure propose a semi-automatic medicine bottle coding and identification all-in-one machine to solve one or more of the technical problems mentioned in the background section above.

[0007] Some embodiments of this disclosure provide a semi-automatic medicine bottle coding and identification all-in-one machine. The device includes: a label dispensing device, a label counter, a label dispensing sensor, a start button, a tray, an identification component, and a control component. The label dispensing device includes a label dispensing drive mechanism and a label dispensing guide mechanism. The label dispensing drive mechanism can drive the label tape to move, and the label dispensing guide mechanism is disposed on the label dispensing path of the label dispensing drive mechanism. Each label in the label tape is printed with a unique identification code. The label dispensing sensor is disposed at the end of the label dispensing guide mechanism and can detect the dispensing status of the label tape. The label counter communicates with the label dispensing sensor. The system includes a communication connection, a tag counter that counts each tag sent out, a tray that holds multiple medicine bottles, each bottle affixed with one of the aforementioned tags, an identification component located above the tray that collects the traceability code and the tags of each medicine bottle in the tray, a start button that controls the identification component to collect the tags of each medicine bottle in the tray, and a control component that is communicatively connected to the tag dispensing device, the tag dispensing sensor, the identification component, and the start button. The control component is configured to establish an association between the traceability code and the tags of each medicine bottle in response to pressing the start button.

[0008] Optionally, the aforementioned semi-automatic medicine bottle coding and recognition integrated machine also includes a monitoring camera; the monitoring camera can monitor the workflow.

[0009] Optionally, the aforementioned semi-automatic medicine bottle coding and recognition integrated machine also includes a speed control component; the speed control component can adjust the moving speed of the aforementioned label dispensing drive mechanism.

[0010] Optionally, the tag counter is provided with a reset button, which can reset the count value of the tag counter to zero.

[0011] Optionally, the aforementioned semi-automatic medicine bottle coding and identification all-in-one machine also includes a display; the display can show the association information between the traceability code and the label of each medicine bottle, as well as the monitoring image from the aforementioned camera.

[0012] Optionally, the aforementioned semi-automatic medicine bottle coding and recognition all-in-one machine also includes a power switch.

[0013] Optionally, the label dispensing guide mechanism includes a support plate, a first positioning shaft, a limiting shaft, and a second positioning shaft. The first positioning shaft, the limiting shaft, and the second positioning shaft are all located above the support plate. The first positioning shaft has two adjustable limiting blocks nested within it. These adjustable limiting blocks can slide along the axial direction of the first positioning shaft, and the label tape passes between the two adjustable limiting blocks. A first gap is provided between the limiting shaft and the support plate. A limiting plate is fixedly installed on the second positioning shaft. The length direction of the limiting plate is parallel to the axial direction of the second positioning shaft. The second positioning shaft can rotate around its own axis. One end of the limiting plate is fixed to the second positioning shaft, and a second gap is provided between the other end of the limiting shaft and the support plate. The label tape passes sequentially through the first positioning shaft, the first gap, and the second gap.

[0014] The above embodiments of this disclosure have the following beneficial effects: the semi-automatic medicine bottle coding and identification all-in-one machine of some embodiments of this disclosure can improve the association efficiency between medicine bottle labels and traceability codes. Specifically, the reason for the low association efficiency between medicine bottle labels and traceability codes is that scanning each medicine bottle label one by one and associating it with the medicine traceability code results in low efficiency. Based on this, some embodiments of this disclosure provide a semi-automatic medicine bottle coding and identification all-in-one machine, which includes: a label dispensing device, a label counter, a label dispensing sensor, a start button, a tray, an identification component, and a control component; the label dispensing device includes a label dispensing drive mechanism and a label dispensing guide mechanism, the label dispensing drive mechanism can drive the label tape to move, the label dispensing guide mechanism is arranged on the label dispensing path of the label dispensing drive mechanism, wherein each label in the label tape is printed with a unique identification code; the label dispensing sensor is arranged at the end of the label dispensing guide mechanism, the label dispensing sensor can detect the delivery status of the label tape, and the label counter and the label dispensing sensor... The system is connected to a label dispensing device. The label counter counts the labels dispensed. The tray holds multiple medicine bottles, each labeled with one of the labels. The identification component is located above the tray and collects traceability codes and labels from each medicine bottle within the tray. The start button controls the identification component to collect labels from each medicine bottle in the tray. The control component is communicatively connected to the label dispensing device, the label dispensing sensor, the identification component, and the start button. The control component is configured to respond to pressing the start button and establish an association between the traceability code and the labels on each medicine bottle. The label dispensing device drives the label tape with a unique identifier to move. The label dispensing sensor detects the label tape's dispensing status. The label counter counts the dispensed labels. The operator affixes the dispensed labels to the medicine bottles and places them in the tray, which holds multiple medicine bottles. The identification component collects traceability codes first, then the start button is pressed to allow the identification component to collect labels from all medicine bottles in the tray, and the control component establishes an association between the traceability code and the labels on each medicine bottle. By collecting labels from multiple medicine bottles in batches and linking them with traceability codes, the efficiency of the association was improved. Attached Figure Description

[0015] The above and other features, advantages, and aspects of the embodiments of this disclosure will become more apparent from the accompanying drawings and the following detailed description. Throughout the drawings, the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements. It should be understood that the drawings are schematic, and elements are not necessarily drawn to scale.

[0016] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a semi-automatic medicine bottle coding and recognition integrated machine according to some embodiments of this disclosure; Figure 2This is an internal test diagram of a semi-automatic medicine bottle coding and recognition integrated machine according to some embodiments of this disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0017] Embodiments of this disclosure will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. While some embodiments of this disclosure are shown in the drawings, it should be understood that this disclosure can be implemented in various forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided to provide a more thorough and complete understanding of this disclosure. It should be understood that the accompanying drawings and embodiments of this disclosure are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of this disclosure.

[0018] It should also be noted that, for ease of description, only the parts relevant to the invention are shown in the accompanying drawings. Unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and features described in this disclosure can be combined with each other.

[0019] It should be noted that the concepts of "first" and "second" mentioned in this disclosure are used only to distinguish different devices, modules or units, and are not used to limit the order of functions performed by these devices, modules or units or their interdependencies.

[0020] It should be noted that the terms "a" and "a plurality of" used in this disclosure are illustrative rather than restrictive, and those skilled in the art should understand that, unless otherwise expressly indicated in the context, they should be understood as "one or more".

[0021] The names of messages or information exchanged between multiple devices in the embodiments of this disclosure are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of such messages or information.

[0022] This disclosure will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments.

[0023] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a semi-automatic medicine bottle coding and recognition integrated machine according to some embodiments of this disclosure. Figure 1 It includes a bidding drive mechanism 1, a bidding guide mechanism 2, a tag counter 3, a bidding sensor 4, a start button 5, a tray 6, a recognition component 7, a monitoring camera 8, a speed control component 9, a display 10, and a power switch 11.

[0024] Figure 2 This is an internal test diagram of a semi-automatic medicine bottle coding and recognition integrated machine according to some embodiments of this disclosure. Figure 2 Includes label with 12.

[0025] In some embodiments, the semi-automatic medicine bottle coding and identification integrated machine may include: a label dispensing device, a label counter 3, a label dispensing sensor 4, a start button 5, a tray 6, an identification component 7, and a control component. The label dispensing device may include a label dispensing drive mechanism 1 and a label dispensing guide mechanism 2. The label dispensing drive mechanism 1 can drive the label tape 12 to move. Specifically, the label dispensing drive mechanism 1 may include a label dispensing drive motor and a label tape reel. The label dispensing drive motor may be a stepper motor or a servo motor, capable of driving the label tape reel to rotate. The label tape reel may be a cylindrical structure, and its outer surface may be wound with label tape 12, wherein each label in the label tape 12 is printed with a unique identification code. The unique identification code may be a unique identification form such as a QR code, barcode, or micro-dot code, ensuring that the label of each medicine bottle is unique. The unique identification code may record key information such as the corresponding medicine bottle's drug information, production batch, and expiration date. The output shaft of the aforementioned dispensing drive motor can be embedded in the aforementioned label tape reel, allowing the label tape reel to rotate via the output shaft, thereby driving the label tape 12 to move. The aforementioned dispensing guide mechanism 2 can be a structural component disposed on the dispensing path of the aforementioned dispensing drive mechanism 1, capable of guiding the movement of the label tape 12. For example, the dispensing guide mechanism 2 can be two parallel rollers, through which the label tape can pass, and the two rollers can rotate synchronously as the label tape moves. The aforementioned dispensing path can be the path along which the label tape 12 extends from the aforementioned dispensing drive mechanism 1 to the location of the aforementioned dispensing sensor 4.

[0026] In some embodiments, the label dispensing sensor 4 can be disposed at the end of the label dispensing guide mechanism 2. The label dispensing sensor 4 can be a sensor capable of detecting the dispensing status of the label tape 12. For example, the label dispensing sensor can be a photoelectric sensor. When the label tape 12 passes through the label dispensing guide mechanism 2, the label tape 12 contacts the photoelectric sensor, blocking the light from the photoelectric sensor, thereby triggering a sensing signal to detect the dispensing status of the label tape 12. The sensing signal can be a high-level signal or a low-level signal, depending on the type of photoelectric sensor and the circuit design, and is not specifically limited here. The label counter 3 can be a counting device capable of recording the number of each dispensed label. The label counter 3 can be communicatively connected to the label dispensing sensor 4, receiving the sensing signal sent by the label dispensing sensor 4, and counting each dispensed label. The label counter 3 can include an LCD screen, which can intuitively display the number of dispensed labels, making it convenient for operators to monitor the work progress. When the label tape 12 is conveyed to the label dispensing sensor 4, the operator can remove the dispensed label and affix it to the corresponding medicine bottle, and then place the labeled medicine bottle in the tray 6. The tray 6 mentioned above can be a tray that can hold multiple medicine bottles. The tray 6 can be provided with multiple placement slots, each slot can hold one medicine bottle. The multiple placement slots can be arranged in parallel so that the medicine bottles can be neatly arranged in the tray 6.

[0027] In some embodiments, the identification component 7 can be a device capable of accurately acquiring traceability codes and labels of each medicine bottle within the tray 6. For example, the identification component 7 can be a high-definition camera. The traceability code can be a drug traceability code located on the medicine box of the medicine bottle. The identification component 7 can be located above the tray 6, capable of clearly acquiring the labels of each medicine bottle within the tray 6. The start button 5 can be a button device capable of triggering the identification component 7 to acquire the labels of each medicine bottle within the tray 6. The control component can be an intelligent control unit such as a microprocessor or programmable logic controller, capable of maintaining the stable operation of each component. The identification component 7 can automatically acquire traceability codes placed within the shooting range. Then, in response to pressing the start button 5, the control component can control the identification component 7 to batch acquire the labels of each medicine bottle within the tray 6 and construct the association between the traceability code and the labels of each medicine bottle through a preset algorithm. The labels of the medicine bottles can be re-identified by the identification component 7, and the information of the label and the associated traceability code can be queried, facilitating the query of the drug traceability code of the medicine bottle at any time. The aforementioned preset algorithm is an algorithm that constructs a correspondence between traceability codes and medicine bottle labels based on image recognition and data processing technology. It can associate medicine bottle labels with traceability codes, allowing users to query the associated traceability code through the medicine bottle label. The control component also has data storage capabilities, saving the constructed association to a local database or uploading it to a cloud server for subsequent querying and traceability. Specifically, when the operator places each medicine bottle in tray 6 with the labels facing the recognition component 7, the original medicine packaging box's traceability code can be placed in front of the recognition component 7, which will record the traceability code. Then, tray 6 can be placed in front of the recognition component 7, allowing it to capture images of the labels on each medicine bottle within tray 6. Finally, the start button 5 can be pressed, enabling the recognition component 7 to batch collect labels from all medicine bottles in tray 6. The control component can then construct the association between the traceability code and each medicine bottle label, ensuring that the traceability code can be found for each medicine bottle. Through the operation of component 7, the aforementioned semi-automatic medicine bottle coding and identification machine can collect label information from multiple medicine bottles in batches and associate it with the drug traceability code, greatly improving the management efficiency of medicine bottles.

[0028] Optionally, the aforementioned semi-automatic medicine bottle coding and recognition integrated machine may also include a monitoring camera 8. The monitoring camera 8 can be located at a high position, and its monitoring range can cover the entire labeling operation area, enabling it to monitor daily work processes and provide strong evidence for subsequent quality traceability and problem investigation.

[0029] Optionally, the aforementioned semi-automatic medicine bottle coding and identification integrated machine may further include a speed control component 9. The speed control component 9 can be a knob-type or button-type speed controller, and can be communicatively connected to the label dispensing drive mechanism 1. The speed control component 9 can adjust the moving speed of the label dispensing drive mechanism 1. The moving speed of the label dispensing drive mechanism 1 can be adjusted by rotating the knob or pressing the button, thereby controlling the dispensing speed of the label tape 12. In actual operation, the operator can flexibly adjust the dispensing speed of the label tape 12 according to factors such as the material of the medicine bottle, the adhesiveness of the label, and the working environment to ensure labeling efficiency.

[0030] Optionally, the tag counter 3 may be equipped with a reset button, which can reset the count value of the tag counter 3 to zero. When it is necessary to start counting again, the operator can press the reset button to quickly reset the count value of the tag counter 3 to zero, making the counting operation more flexible and convenient.

[0031] Optionally, the aforementioned semi-automatic medicine bottle coding and identification integrated machine may also include a display 10. The display 10 can be an LCD screen or a touch screen, capable of displaying the association information between the traceability code and the labels of each medicine bottle, as well as the monitoring footage from the aforementioned camera. The association information may include, but is not limited to, the specific content of the traceability code, the drug information corresponding to each medicine bottle label, the production batch, and the association time. Operators can intuitively view the association between the traceability code and the medicine bottle label through the display 10, without needing to consult paper or electronic records, thus improving work efficiency. Simultaneously, the display 10 can also display the monitoring footage from the aforementioned monitoring camera 8 in real time, recording daily operating procedures and ensuring the standardization and accuracy of the entire workflow. Furthermore, the display 10 can also integrate the equipment's operating status display function. The operating status may include, but is not limited to, the working status of the label dispensing drive mechanism 1 (such as label dispensing speed) and the remaining amount of label tape 12, providing operators with comprehensive equipment information for timely maintenance and adjustment.

[0032] Optionally, the aforementioned semi-automatic medicine bottle coding and recognition integrated machine also includes a power switch 11. The power switch 11 can be a rocker switch or a push-button switch, allowing the power to the semi-automatic medicine bottle coding and recognition integrated machine to be switched on or off by pressing the power switch 11. The power switch 11 may also be equipped with a status indicator light, which can be an LED light, to visually display the power on / off status. When the power is on, the status indicator light illuminates, indicating to the operator that the equipment is in working condition; when the power is off, the status indicator light goes out, indicating that the equipment has stopped operating.

[0033] Optionally, the label dispensing guide mechanism 2 may include a support plate, a first positioning shaft, a limiting shaft, and a second positioning shaft. The support plate may be a smooth metal or plastic plate, allowing the label tape 12 to move smoothly on its surface. The first, limiting, and second positioning shafts may all be cylindrical metal shafts with smoothed surfaces to reduce friction during label tape 12 movement. The label dispensing drive mechanism 1 may be positioned higher than the label dispensing guide mechanism 2, allowing the label tape 12 to move downwards under its drive, facilitating smooth passage through the label dispensing guide mechanism 2. The first, limiting, and second positioning shafts may be arranged parallel to each other above the support plate, sequentially following the label tape 12's dispensing path. The aforementioned first positioning shaft can be nested with two adjustable limiting blocks. These adjustable limiting blocks are hollow cylindrical structures capable of sliding along the axial direction of the first positioning shaft, accommodating label tapes 12 of varying widths, allowing the label tape 12 to pass between the two adjustable limiting blocks. Each adjustable limiting block may have a threaded hole perpendicular to the axial direction of the first positioning shaft. The adjustable limiting blocks are fixed by screws engaging with the threaded holes and contacting the first positioning shaft. After adjusting the two adjustable limiting blocks to suitable positions, tightening the screws secures them to the first positioning shaft, ensuring the label tape 12 remains stable during movement and does not shift or wobble. A first gap may be provided between the limiting shaft and the support plate. This first gap can be flexibly adjusted according to the actual thickness of the label tape 12, ensuring that the label tape 12 is neither obstructed by too small a gap nor wobbles due to too large a gap. The aforementioned limiting shaft is rotatable, enabling the label tape 12 to move. When the label tape 12 passes through the first gap, the limiting shaft applies pressure to keep it flat and prevent wrinkles or twisting. The aforementioned second positioning shaft can be fixedly mounted with a limiting plate, which can be a long, thin plate. The length of the limiting plate can be parallel to the axis of the second positioning shaft. One end of the limiting plate can be fixed to the second positioning shaft by welding or bolts. The second positioning shaft can rotate around its own axis, creating a second gap between the other end of the limiting shaft and the support plate. This second gap ensures the stability of the label tape 12 during movement and prevents it from deviating from the dispensing path. The label tape 12 sequentially passes through the first positioning shaft, the first gap, and the second gap before finally reaching the position of the dispensing sensor 4.During this process, the adjustable limit block on the first positioning shaft can stably transport the label tape 12 and enter the label dispensing guide mechanism 2. The first gap and the second gap can further ensure that the label tape 12 maintains the correct path during transport. Finally, the label tape 12 reaches the position of the label dispensing sensor 4, completing the entire label dispensing process.

[0034] In the process of adopting technical solutions to solve the above-mentioned technical problems, the following technical problems often arise in the scenario where this technical solution is to be applied: the warehouse pharmacy of a large chain pharmacy (or a DTP pharmacy near a hospital): The warehouse pharmacy of a large chain pharmacy needs to label a large number of medicine bottles every day and associate them with the corresponding drug traceability codes. Operators need to label multiple medicine bottles and place them uniformly. When there are a large number of medicine bottles, the operation efficiency will be significantly affected. Moreover, if the label of the medicine bottle is not completely facing the recognition component or the placement position is deviated, the recognition component will not be able to accurately collect the label information, and the bottles need to be rearranged, resulting in low work efficiency. When using an automatic rotating mechanism to make the medicine bottles rotate automatically, because the medicine bottle material (such as smooth glass or plastic) is relatively smooth, if the medicine bottle is placed directly on the smooth metal or plastic roller, the medicine bottle is very likely to slip due to insufficient friction at the moment the roller starts to rotate, causing the automatic rotating mechanism to idle and unable to drive the medicine bottle to rotate. The medicine bottle still needs to be placed manually, which often results in low work efficiency. To meet the following requirements for this application scenario: adaptability to uniform placement of medicine bottles, adaptability to automatic rotation of medicine bottles, and prevention of medicine bottles slipping, we decided to adopt the following solution: Optionally, the tray 6 may include a tray base, a roller array, and a roller drive mechanism. The tray base may be a rectangular frame, providing a stable support foundation for the roller array. The roller array may consist of multiple long cylindrical rollers arranged side by side, rotatably mounted within the tray base. The axes of the rollers in the roller array may be parallel to each other and in the same plane, allowing the medicine bottles to be placed uniformly and stably. A receiving gap may be formed between adjacent rollers to accommodate the medicine bottles. This receiving gap represents the distance between adjacent rollers, and its width may be smaller than the diameter of the medicine bottle, allowing the medicine bottles to be placed between adjacent rollers. When the rollers rotate, they can drive the medicine bottles to rotate. Each roller in the aforementioned roller array can have an anti-slip structure on its surface. This anti-slip structure can be an anti-slip coating or an anti-slip texture. The anti-slip coating can be a rubber coating, and the anti-slip texture can include, but is not limited to, raised dots, grooves, and striped textures. This anti-slip structure increases the friction between the medicine bottle and the roller, allowing the medicine bottle to rotate simultaneously with the roller array. This ensures that the labels on all medicine bottles in the tray are collected by the identification component 7, guaranteeing accurate identification of each bottle's label and reducing the probability of missed or false detections. Furthermore, operators only need to place the medicine bottle in the tray, eliminating the need to adjust the bottle's orientation to face the identification component 7, simplifying the operation and improving work efficiency. The aforementioned roller drive mechanism drives the roller array to rotate. This mechanism can include a roller drive motor, a chain, and multiple transmission gears. The roller drive motor can be a DC motor or a stepper motor, providing stable and controllable rotational power. Each roller in the roller array can have a transmission gear fixedly connected to the same end. The output shaft of the aforementioned roller drive motor can be fixedly connected to a transmission gear, which is in the same plane as the transmission gear connected to the roller array. This facilitates chain meshing and transmission, allowing the drive motor to drive each transmission gear to rotate via the chain, thereby rotating each roller in the roller array. Using chain transmission ensures the stability and reliability of the transmission. Gear transmission alone is prone to wear due to the large friction between gears, while chain transmission effectively reduces this wear and extends service life. The aforementioned roller drive motor can communicate with the aforementioned control component, which can control the rotation speed and direction of the roller array by controlling the speed and direction of the roller drive motor. Specifically, when the start button 5 is pressed, the control component can control the roller drive motor to rotate, which in turn drives the transmission gear to rotate, thereby driving the roller array to rotate.At this time, each medicine bottle placed in the roller array rotates synchronously with the rotation of the rollers. When the medicine bottle rotates to the point where the label faces the identification component 7, the identification component 7 will collect the label, and the control component can establish the association between the label and the traceability code. Throughout the process, the roller array can ensure that the label of each medicine bottle can be collected and associated with the traceability code by rotating, without the need to rearrange the position of the medicine bottles, thus improving work efficiency.

[0035] The above-described technical solution, as an inventive point of this disclosure, solves the technical problem that "if the label on the medicine bottle is not fully aligned with the recognition component or the placement is off, the recognition component cannot accurately collect the label information, requiring repositioning, which often results in low work efficiency." Factors leading to low work efficiency often include: operators need to label multiple medicine bottles and arrange them uniformly. When the number of medicine bottles is large, operational efficiency is significantly affected. Moreover, if the label on the medicine bottle is not fully aligned with the recognition component or the placement is off, the recognition component cannot accurately collect the label information, requiring repositioning, leading to low work efficiency. When using an automatic rotating mechanism to automatically rotate the medicine bottles, because the medicine bottle material (such as smooth glass or plastic) is relatively smooth, directly placing the medicine bottle on a smooth metal or plastic roller can easily cause slippage due to insufficient friction at the moment the roller starts rotating. This causes the automatic rotating mechanism to idle, failing to rotate the medicine bottle, still requiring manual placement, resulting in low work efficiency. Solving these factors can improve work efficiency. To achieve this effect, the semi-automatic medicine bottle coding and recognition integrated machine disclosed herein drives the roller array to rotate through a roller drive mechanism, so that the medicine bottles can automatically adjust their positions in the tray. At the same time, an anti-slip structure is set on the surface of the roller to prevent the medicine bottles from slipping, ensuring that the medicine bottles can rotate synchronously when the roller rotates. Operators only need to place each medicine bottle in the tray without adjusting the orientation of each bottle individually, which greatly simplifies the operation process and significantly improves the overall work efficiency.

[0036] In the process of adopting technical solutions to solve the above-mentioned technical problems, the following technical problems often arise in the scenario where this technical solution is to be applied: the operation of linking drug traceability codes for fragile medicine bottles (such as glass ampoules) in the warehouse pharmacy of large chain pharmacies (or DTP pharmacies near hospitals). Due to the fragile nature of the medicine bottles and their varying diameters, the spacing between adjacent rollers needs to ensure that the smallest diameter bottles will not fall off. Larger diameter bottles may come into contact with each other when placed. Changing to different trays to accommodate bottles of different diameters or setting the rollers to have an adjustable distance structure would lead to complex structures and high costs. At the same time, the medicine bottles are placed between adjacent rollers by their own weight. When the medicine bottles rotate with the rollers, they are prone to irregular rolling, sliding, or even slight bouncing, resulting in rigid collisions between the medicine bottles and the rollers. If a partition with a straight-edged through groove or a large square opening is simply set above the roller array, the bottom edge of the medicine bottle is very likely to scrape and hard-collide with the inner wall of the through groove during rotation, often resulting in a high risk of medicine bottle breakage. To address the following requirements for this application scenario: adapting to bottle shaking, accommodating bottles of different diameters, and reducing wear during bottle rotation, we have decided to adopt the following solution: Optionally, the tray 6 may further include a partition positioning plate. The partition positioning plate can be a plate-like structure made of a smooth, wear-resistant material, such as polyoxymethylene (POM). POM has good wear resistance and a smooth surface, which can reduce frictional damage to the medicine bottles. The partition positioning plate can be fixed above the tray base by support columns and located above the roller array. The support columns can be cylindrical structures set at the edge of the tray base, and can be distributed at the four corners of the tray base to stably support the partition positioning plate. The partition positioning plate can have multiple partition baffles and multiple roller slots. The partition baffles can be elongated plate-like structures perpendicular to the surface of the partition positioning plate. Two adjacent partition baffles can form a medicine bottle positioning unit, which can hold one medicine bottle, preventing adjacent medicine bottles from contacting each other during rotation and further reducing the risk of bottle breakage. The aforementioned roller groove can be an elongated through-hole structure, its width being smaller than the diameter of the roller. This allows a portion of the roller to be embedded into the roller groove from the bottom of the partition positioning plate. The bottom of the roller groove can have an arc surface, the curvature of which can match the curvature of the roller, allowing the roller to fit more closely to the roller groove. This reduces the gap between the roller and the roller groove, lowering the risk of the bottom edge of the medicine bottle scraping or hard impacting the inner wall of the roller groove during rotation. It also reduces the risk of the medicine bottle getting stuck and crushed due to excessive gaps during rotation. The roller groove can be positioned between two adjacent partition plates, ensuring that the medicine bottle contacts the roller when placed, allowing the roller to rotate the medicine bottle. The number of roller grooves can be the same as the number of rollers in the roller array. Each roller groove can be arranged one-to-one with the roller array, allowing each roller to pass through its corresponding groove, ensuring that each medicine bottle contacts its corresponding roller and achieves stable rotation. The inner surfaces of two adjacent partitions can both be concave arc surfaces, allowing medicine bottles of different diameters to roll to the bottom under their own weight and come into contact with the roller passing through the roller groove. This ensures that the medicine bottles rotate when the roller rotates. At the same time, the concave arc surface design can effectively reduce the shaking of the medicine bottles during rotation. The medicine bottles can naturally move towards the center under the guidance of the concave arc surface, which can accommodate medicine bottles of different diameters and reduce the risk of the medicine bottles colliding with adjacent medicine bottles or partition positioning plates due to shaking.

[0037] The above-described technical solution, as an inventive point of this disclosure, solves the technical problem of "medicine bottles easily experiencing irregular rolling, sliding, or even slight bouncing when rotating with the rollers, leading to rigid collisions between the bottles and the rollers and a high risk of bottle breakage." Factors contributing to this high risk of bottle breakage include: fragile medicine bottles are inherently fragile and vary in diameter; the spacing between adjacent rollers must ensure that bottles with the smallest diameter do not fall, while larger diameter bottles may collide with each other. Replacing trays with different diameter bottles increases costs. Furthermore, since the bottles rely solely on their own weight to be placed between adjacent rollers, they are prone to irregular rolling, sliding, or even slight bouncing when rotating with the rollers. If a simple partition with a straight-edged slot or a large square opening is placed above the roller array, the bottom edge of the bottle is easily scraped and colliding with the inner wall of the slot during rotation, resulting in rigid collisions between the bottle and the rollers and a high risk of bottle breakage. Solving these factors reduces the risk of bottle breakage. To achieve this effect, the semi-automatic medicine bottle coding and identification integrated machine disclosed herein reduces the risk of medicine bottle breakage by setting up a partitioned positioning plate, and incorporating separating baffles and roller grooves on the partitioned positioning plate. Adjacent separating baffles form medicine bottle positioning units, effectively preventing medicine bottles from colliding with each other during rotation. The separating baffles are designed with concave arc surfaces, ensuring that medicine bottles of different diameters can be stably placed within the medicine bottle positioning units, effectively reducing shaking and collisions during rotation, further lowering the risk of breakage. Simultaneously, the arc surface at the bottom of the roller groove matches the curvature of the roller, reducing gaps and lowering the risk of medicine bottles scraping or hard colliding with the inner wall of the roller groove during rotation. This also reduces the risk of medicine bottles breaking due to getting stuck in gaps, improving both work efficiency and safety.

[0038] In addressing the aforementioned technical challenges by employing technical solutions, the specific scenario for which this solution is intended—the association of high-value targeted drugs (such as monoclonal antibody injections) with drug traceability codes in high-end DTP pharmacies—often presents the following technical issues: Targeted drugs are expensive, and labeling them with traceability codes places high demands on the cleanliness of the work environment, operational standardization, and visual order. Typically, during labeling, operators cut the printed label tape, manually peel off the labels, and dispose of the backing paper waste. Improper disposal of this waste can damage the work surface and negatively impact a professional image. Furthermore, the frequent cutting and peeling of labels during manual labeling can easily lead to label tape misalignment or even breakage, causing blockages in the label dispensing device and reducing work efficiency. Considering the following requirements for this application scenario—maintaining a clean work environment, improving work efficiency, and ensuring the stability of the label tape operation—we have decided to adopt the following solution: Optionally, the aforementioned bid-dispensing guiding mechanism may further include a third positioning shaft and a retrieval drive mechanism. The third positioning shaft may be a cylindrical metal shaft, similar to the first positioning shaft, providing a guiding function. The retrieval drive mechanism may include a retrieval drive motor and a retrieval roller. The retrieval drive motor may be a stepper motor or a servo motor, similar to the bid-dispensing drive motor. The output shaft of the retrieval drive motor may be embedded within the retrieval roller, which may be a cylindrical structure capable of rotating with the output shaft of the retrieval drive motor. Each label on the label tape can be affixed to the backing paper. Both the third positioning shaft and the retrieval drive mechanism may be located below the support plate. When the label tape passes the end of the support plate, the label peels off from the backing paper. The backing paper can then wrap around the underside of the support plate, change its transmission direction via the third positioning shaft, and connect to the recycling roller. Driven by the recycling drive motor, the recycling roller rotates to wind up the backing paper, preventing it from scattering and disrupting the cleanliness of the work surface. Simultaneously, the label can extend forward as it passes the end of the support plate and pass through the label dispensing sensor 4, thus achieving peeling from the backing paper. This facilitates the operator in removing the label and attaching it to the medicine bottle, improving work efficiency. The recycling drive motor can communicate with the control component, which can adjust the speeds of both the recycling drive motor and the label dispensing drive motor, ensuring the recycling roller rotates at the same speed as the label tape reel. This allows the separation and recycling process of the label from the backing paper to proceed synchronously and stably, reducing the possibility of backing paper accumulating or jamming due to untimely recycling and ensuring a smooth labeling process. The third positioning shaft can be nested with two of the adjustable limiting blocks, and the bottom paper can pass between the two adjustable limiting blocks, which can limit the conveying path of the bottom paper, ensure that the bottom paper will not deviate during the transmission process, and improve the stability and accuracy of bottom paper recycling.

[0039] The above-described technical solution, as an inventive point of this disclosure, solves the technical problem of "operators cutting the printed label tape during labeling operations, manually peeling off the labels and disposing of waste backing paper. Improper handling of this waste can damage the cleanliness of the work surface and affect a professional image. Furthermore, the frequent cutting and peeling of labels during manual labeling can easily cause label tape misalignment or even breakage, clogging the label dispensing device and reducing work efficiency." Factors leading to low work efficiency often include: operators cutting the printed label tape during labeling operations, manually peeling off the labels and disposing of waste backing paper. Improper handling of this waste can damage the cleanliness of the work surface and affect a professional image. Additionally, the frequent cutting and peeling of labels during manual labeling can easily cause label tape misalignment or even breakage, clogging the label dispensing device and reducing work efficiency. Solving these factors can improve work efficiency. To achieve this effect, the semi-automatic medicine bottle coding and identification integrated machine disclosed herein utilizes a third positioning axis and a recycling drive mechanism to automatically recycle the backing paper and automatically peel off the label. This not only prevents the backing paper from scattering and damaging the work surface, but also eliminates the need for operators to manually peel off labels and dispose of backing paper waste, significantly improving work efficiency. Simultaneously, by adjusting the speeds of the recycling drive motor and the label dispensing drive motor through control components, the separation and recycling processes of the label and backing paper are ensured to proceed synchronously and stably, preventing label tape misalignment or breakage and guaranteeing continuous label dispensing. Adjustable limit blocks constrain the conveying trajectory of the backing paper, further ensuring the smoothness of the labeling process and improving work efficiency.

[0040] The above embodiments of this disclosure have the following beneficial effects: the semi-automatic medicine bottle coding and identification all-in-one machine of some embodiments of this disclosure can improve the association efficiency between medicine bottle labels and traceability codes. Specifically, the reason for the low association efficiency between medicine bottle labels and traceability codes is that scanning each medicine bottle label one by one and associating it with the medicine traceability code results in low efficiency. Based on this, some embodiments of this disclosure provide a semi-automatic medicine bottle coding and identification all-in-one machine, which includes: a label dispensing device, a label counter, a label dispensing sensor, a start button, a tray, an identification component, and a control component; the label dispensing device includes a label dispensing drive mechanism and a label dispensing guide mechanism, the label dispensing drive mechanism can drive the label tape to move, the label dispensing guide mechanism is arranged on the label dispensing path of the label dispensing drive mechanism, wherein each label in the label tape is printed with a unique identification code; the label dispensing sensor is arranged at the end of the label dispensing guide mechanism, the label dispensing sensor can detect the delivery status of the label tape, and the label counter and the label dispensing sensor... The system is connected to a label dispensing device. The label counter counts the labels dispensed. The tray holds multiple medicine bottles, each labeled with one of the labels. The identification component is located above the tray and collects traceability codes and labels from each medicine bottle within the tray. The start button controls the identification component to collect labels from each medicine bottle in the tray. The control component is communicatively connected to the label dispensing device, the label dispensing sensor, the identification component, and the start button. The control component is configured to respond to pressing the start button and establish an association between the traceability code and the labels on each medicine bottle. The label dispensing device drives the label tape with a unique identifier to move. The label dispensing sensor detects the label tape's dispensing status. The label counter counts the dispensed labels. The operator affixes the dispensed labels to the medicine bottles and places them in the tray, which holds multiple medicine bottles. The identification component collects traceability codes first, then the start button is pressed to allow the identification component to collect labels from all medicine bottles in the tray, and the control component establishes an association between the traceability code and the labels on each medicine bottle. By collecting labels from multiple medicine bottles in batches and linking them with traceability codes, the efficiency of the association was improved.

[0041] The above description is merely a selection of preferred embodiments of this disclosure and an explanation of the technical principles employed. Those skilled in the art should understand that the scope of the invention involved in the embodiments of this disclosure is not limited to technical solutions formed by specific combinations of the above-described technical features, but should also cover other technical solutions formed by arbitrary combinations of the above-described technical features or their equivalents without departing from the above-described inventive concept. For example, technical solutions formed by substituting the above-described features with (but not limited to) technical features with similar functions disclosed in the embodiments of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A semi-automatic medicine bottle coding and recognition all-in-one machine, characterized in that, include: The label dispensing device, label counter, label dispensing sensor, start button, tray, identification components, and control components; The bidding device includes a bidding drive mechanism and a bidding guide mechanism. The bidding drive mechanism can drive the label tape to move, and the bidding guide mechanism is set on the bidding path of the bidding drive mechanism. Each label in the label tape is printed with a unique identification code. The label dispensing sensor is located at the end of the label dispensing guide mechanism. The label dispensing sensor can detect the dispensing status of the label tape. The label counter is communicatively connected to the label dispensing sensor and can count each label that is dispensed. The tray can hold multiple medicine bottles, and each medicine bottle is labeled with the aforementioned label. The identification component is located above the tray, and the identification component is capable of collecting traceability codes and labels of each medicine bottle in the tray; The start button can control the recognition component to collect the labels of each medicine bottle in the tray; The control component is communicatively connected to the label dispensing device, the label dispensing sensor, the identification component, and the start button. The control component is configured to respond to pressing the start button to establish an association between the traceability code and the label of each medicine bottle.

2. The semi-automatic medicine bottle coding and identification all-in-one machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The semi-automatic medicine bottle coding and recognition all-in-one machine also includes a monitoring camera; The surveillance camera is capable of monitoring the workflow.

3. The semi-automatic medicine bottle coding and identification all-in-one machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The semi-automatic medicine bottle coding and recognition all-in-one machine also includes a speed control component; The speed control component can adjust the moving speed of the bill dispensing drive mechanism.

4. The semi-automatic medicine bottle coding and identification all-in-one machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The tag counter is equipped with a reset button, which can reset the count value of the tag counter to zero.

5. The semi-automatic medicine bottle coding and identification all-in-one machine according to claim 2, characterized in that, The semi-automatic medicine bottle coding and recognition all-in-one machine also includes a display; The display can show the association information between the traceability code and the labels on each medicine bottle, as well as the monitoring footage from the camera.

6. The semi-automatic medicine bottle coding and identification all-in-one machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The semi-automatic medicine bottle coding and recognition all-in-one machine also includes a power switch.

7. The semi-automatic medicine bottle coding and identification all-in-one machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The bid-dispensing guide mechanism includes a support plate, a first positioning shaft, a limiting shaft, and a second positioning shaft; The first positioning axis, the limiting axis, and the second positioning axis are all located above the support plate. The first positioning axis is nested with two adjustable limiting blocks. The adjustable limiting blocks can slide along the axial direction of the first positioning axis, and the label tape passes between the two adjustable limiting blocks. A first gap is provided between the limiting shaft and the support plate; A limiting plate is fixedly installed on the second positioning shaft. The length direction of the limiting plate is parallel to the axial direction of the second positioning shaft. The second positioning shaft can rotate around its own axis. One end of the limiting plate is fixed to the second positioning shaft, and a second gap is provided between the other end of the limiting shaft and the support plate. The label tape passes sequentially through the first positioning axis, the first gap, and the second gap.

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