Medication system and methods of administering tonics

Abstract

This invention relates to the field of dispensing and production technology, specifically disclosing a dispensing and replenishing system and method. The system replenishes medicinal herbs for an automated dispensing mechanism. The automated dispensing mechanism includes a dispensing body with a hopper and an opening connecting to the hopper. The system includes a medicinal herb storage area, a conveying mechanism, and a replenishing device. The medicinal herb storage area stores various medicinal herbs. The conveying mechanism is located downstream of the medicinal herb storage area and conveys the medicinal herbs from the storage area to a replenishing carrier, and also delivers the replenishing carrier. The replenishing device is located downstream of the conveying mechanism and includes a replenishing mechanism and a moving mechanism. The moving mechanism extends along a first direction, and the replenishing mechanism is movably located along the first direction within the moving mechanism. It is configured to receive the replenishing carrier delivered by the conveying mechanism and carry it to the automated dispensing mechanism requiring replenishment to replenish the corresponding medicinal herbs. This design reduces manual labor intensity and costs while ensuring the safety of operators.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of dispensing and production technology, and in particular to a dispensing and tonic system and method. Background Technology

[0002] With social development, people have increasingly higher demands for quality of life. Due to the fewer side effects of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) in the treatment process, it is being chosen by more and more patients. TCM dispensing equipment can automatically combine various medicinal materials to form different prescriptions. However, the replenishment of medicinal materials in TCM dispensing equipment mostly requires manual labor. After tearing open the small packages of each medicinal material, the person walks to the TCM dispensing equipment that needs replenishment and pours the medicinal material into the corresponding hopper. Because there are many TCM dispensing equipment and the work area is large, the repetitive movement leads to high work intensity and low efficiency. There is also a lot of dust near the TCM dispensing equipment, and the working environment is poor, which can easily affect the respiratory system and personal safety of the staff.

[0003] Therefore, there is an urgent need to study a system and method for dispensing tonics to solve the above problems. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The purpose of this invention is to provide a system and method for dispensing tonics, in order to solve the problems of high labor intensity, low efficiency and personal safety risks associated with manual tonic dispensing in the prior art.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention adopts the following technical solution:

[0006] A dispensing and tonic system for replenishing medicinal slices to an automatic dispensing mechanism, the automatic dispensing mechanism including a dispensing body having a hopper and an opening connecting the hopper; a plurality of the automatic dispensing mechanisms are arranged along a first direction;

[0007] The medication dispensing system includes:

[0008] The medicinal slices storage area is used to store various medicinal slices.

[0009] A conveying mechanism is provided downstream of the medicinal slices storage area and is used to convey the medicinal slices in the medicinal slices storage area to the tonic carrier and to transfer the tonic carrier.

[0010] A medicine replenishment device is located downstream of the conveying mechanism. The medicine replenishment device includes a medicine replenishment mechanism and a moving mechanism. The moving mechanism extends along a first direction. The medicine replenishment mechanism is movably located on the moving mechanism along the first direction and is configured to receive the medicine carrier transmitted by the conveying mechanism and carry the medicine carrier to the opening of the automatic dispensing mechanism that requires medicine replenishment and replenish the corresponding medicinal slices.

[0011] As an optional technical solution for a tonic dispensing system, the tonic carrier includes a dispensing base and a dispensing frame. The dispensing frame can be placed in the dispensing groove of the dispensing base. The conveying mechanism conveys the dispensing base to drive the dispensing frame to move synchronously to the tonic device; and / or,

[0012] The medication dispensing system includes several medication carriers.

[0013] As an optional technical solution for a dispensing system, the dispensing mechanism includes a temporary storage platform, a gripping component, a lifting component, and a dispensing component. The temporary storage platform is movably disposed on the moving mechanism along a first direction. The temporary storage platform is equipped with a temporary storage conveyor belt that docks with the conveying mechanism. The lifting component is disposed on the temporary storage platform, and its output end moves between a lifting state and a retracting state to lift the dispensing carrier or cause the dispensing seat to fall back onto the temporary storage conveyor belt. The output end of the gripping component has a gripping state and a release state to grip or release the lifted dispensing frame. The dispensing component can support and transfer the dispensing frame from the bottom.

[0014] As an optional technical solution for a tonic dispensing system, the tonic component includes:

[0015] A robotic arm is mounted on the temporary storage platform;

[0016] A support platform is located at the output end of the robotic arm, and the support platform is used to support the feeding frame;

[0017] Clamping arms, two clamping arms are arranged at intervals on the support platform;

[0018] Each clamping arm is provided with at least one clamping drive, the output end of which moves between a clamping state and a releasing state to move into or out of the limiting groove of the feeding frame.

[0019] As an optional technical solution for a dispensing and tonic system, the tonic assembly further includes a telescopic component, which is disposed on the support platform, and the output end of the telescopic component has an extended state and a retracted state; the feeding frame includes a frame body and a piston disposed inside the frame body, the frame body has a feeding cavity and a push hole communicating with the feeding cavity, and the piston is movably disposed in the feeding cavity along the axial direction of the feeding frame; the output end of the telescopic component can pass through the push hole and push against the piston.

[0020] As an optional technical solution for a dispensing and tonic system, the automatic dispensing mechanism includes a hopper cover, which is connected to the dispensing body and switches between an open state and a closed state to open or close the hopper opening;

[0021] The medication replenishment device includes an actuating component and an actuating drive component. The actuating component is located on the clamping arm, and the actuating drive component is located on the clamping arm and is connected to the actuating component in a transmission manner to drive the actuating component to switch between an extended state and a folded state. When the actuating component is in the extended state, the actuating end of the actuating component is located outside the support platform and can overlap with the hopper cover.

[0022] As an optional technical solution for a dispensing system for tonics, the conveying mechanism includes a primary conveying line and a tonic transfer line. The primary conveying line is located between the tonic transfer line and the herbal medicine storage area and is used to transfer the herbal medicine to the tonic carrier in the tonic transfer line. The tonic transfer line is located between the primary conveying line and the tonic device and is used to transfer the tonic carrier containing the herbal medicine to the tonic device.

[0023] As an optional technical solution for a tonic dispensing system, the conveying mechanism includes a vision detection component configured to detect whether the medicinal slices within the tonic carrier are correct via a vision module; and / or,

[0024] The conveying mechanism also includes a weighing detection component, which is configured to detect whether the weight of the medicinal slices in the tonic carrier is within a set range by a weighing module.

[0025] As an optional technical solution for a dispensing and tonic system, the tonic transfer line is ring-shaped and drives the tonic carrier to move between the sending position and the receiving position. When the tonic carrier is at the sending position, it can be transmitted to the tonic device. When the tonic carrier is at the receiving position, it can receive the medicinal slices transmitted by the primary conveyor line.

[0026] A method for administering tonics, applied to any of the tonic dispensing systems described above, includes the following methods:

[0027] The medicinal slices are transferred from the medicinal slices storage to the tonic device via a conveying mechanism;

[0028] The medicine replenishment mechanism moves along the first direction on the moving mechanism and determines whether the automatic dispensing mechanism directly opposite it needs medicine replenishment; if so, it stops moving and replenishes the corresponding medicinal pieces to the automatic dispensing mechanism; otherwise, it continues to move and faces the downstream automatic dispensing mechanism.

[0029] The present invention has at least the following beneficial effects:

[0030] This invention provides a dispensing and replenishing system and method. The dispensing and replenishing system is used to replenish medicinal herbs for an automatic dispensing mechanism. The automatic dispensing mechanism includes a dispensing body with a hopper and an opening connecting the hopper. Several automatic dispensing mechanisms are arranged along a first direction. The dispensing and replenishing system includes a medicinal herb storage room, a conveying mechanism, and a replenishing device. The medicinal herb storage room is used to store various medicinal herbs. The conveying mechanism is located downstream of the medicinal herb storage room and is used to convey the medicinal herbs in the medicinal herb storage room to a replenishing carrier and to transfer the replenishing carrier. The replenishing device is located downstream of the conveying mechanism and includes a replenishing mechanism and a moving mechanism. The moving mechanism extends along the first direction, and the replenishing mechanism is movably located along the moving mechanism along the first direction and is configured to receive the replenishing carrier transferred by the conveying mechanism and carry the replenishing carrier to the automatic dispensing mechanism that needs replenishment and replenish the corresponding medicinal herbs.

[0031] The above setup enables automated management of medicinal slices from storage and delivery to precise dispensing, significantly reducing manual intervention and labor intensity and costs. At the same time, the dispensing device avoids the potential health hazards of dust spillage during traditional manual dispensing, thus improving operational efficiency and ensuring the occupational health and safety of operators. Attached Figure Description

[0032] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments of the present invention will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on the content of the embodiments of the present invention and these drawings without creative effort.

[0033] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the dispensing and tonic system in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0034] Figure 2 This is a first-view structural schematic diagram of the tonic mechanism in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0035] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the tonic mechanism from a second perspective in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0036] Figure 4 This is a first-view structural schematic diagram of a partial structure of the medicine-addition mechanism in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0037] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of a partial structure of the medicine-addition mechanism in an embodiment of the present invention from a second perspective;

[0038] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the tonic carrier in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0039] Figure 7 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the feeding frame in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0040] Figure 8 for Figure 7 A magnified view of a portion of point A in the middle.

[0041] In the picture:

[0042] 1000. Automatic dispensing mechanism;

[0043] 100. Herbal medicine slices storage;

[0044] 200. Conveying mechanism; 210. Primary conveyor line; 220. Medication transfer line; 230. Vision inspection component; 240. Cleaning component; 250. Bag unpacking mechanism;

[0045] 300. Drug carrier; 310. Feeding seat; 311. Feeding trough; 320. Feeding frame; 3201. Feeding cavity; 3202. Push hole; 3203. First slot; 321. Limiting block; 3211. Limiting groove; 322. Piston; 323. First limiting member; 3231. First ring; 3232. Second ring; 3233. First elastic arm; 3234. First snap-fit ​​protrusion; 324. Second limiting member; 325. Reinforcing rib;

[0046] 400. Replenishment Mechanism; 410. Temporary Storage Platform; 411. Temporary Storage Base; 412. Temporary Storage Support Frame; 413. Temporary Storage Transmission Belt; 420. Gripping Assembly; 430. Lifting Assembly; 431. Lifting Cylinder; 432. Lifting Guide Rod; 440. Replenishment Assembly; 441. Robotic Arm; 442. Support Platform; 443. Clamping Arm; 4431. Clamping Stand; 4432. Reinforcing Component; 444. Clamping Drive Component; 445. Limiting Shaft; 446. Telescopic Component; 447. Actuating Component; 448. Actuating Drive Component; 4491. First Detection Component; 4492. Second Detection Component;

[0047] 500. Mobile mechanism. Detailed Implementation

[0048] Before explaining any implementation of this application in detail, it should be understood that this application is not limited to its application to the structural details and component arrangements set forth in the following description or shown in the above drawings.

[0049] In this application, the terms "comprising," "including," "having," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Without further limitation, an element defined by the phrase "comprising one..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes that element.

[0050] In this application, the term "and / or" describes the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent three cases: A existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, and B existing alone. Additionally, the character " / " in this application generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects have an "and / or" relationship.

[0051] In this application, the terms "connection," "combination," "coupling," and "installation" can refer to direct connection, combination, coupling, or installation, or indirect connection, combination, coupling, or installation. For example, a direct connection refers to two parts or components being connected together without the need for an intermediary, while an indirect connection refers to two parts or components each being connected to at least one intermediary, with the connection achieved through the intermediary. Furthermore, "connection" and "coupling" are not limited to physical or mechanical connections or couplings, but can also include electrical connections or couplings.

[0052] In this application, those skilled in the art will understand that relative terms (e.g., “about,” “approximately,” “basically,” etc.) used in conjunction with quantities or conditions are to include the values ​​and have the meaning indicated by the context. For example, such relative terms include at least the degree of error associated with the measurement of a particular value, tolerances associated with the particular value due to manufacturing, assembly, use, etc. Such terms should also be considered as disclosing a range defined by the absolute values ​​of the two endpoints. Relative terms may refer to a certain percentage (e.g., 1%, 5%, 10% or more) of the indicated value. Numerical values ​​that do not use relative terms should also be disclosed as specific values ​​with tolerances. Furthermore, “basically” when expressing relative angular relationships (e.g., substantially parallel, substantially perpendicular) may refer to a certain degree (e.g., 1 degree, 5 degrees, 10 degrees or more) added to or subtracted from the indicated angle.

[0053] In this application, those skilled in the art will understand that the function performed by a component can be performed by one component, multiple components, one part, or multiple parts. Similarly, the function performed by a part can also be performed by one part, one component, or a combination of multiple parts.

[0054] In this application, the directional terms "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "front," and "rear" are used to describe the orientation and positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings and should not be construed as limiting the embodiments of this application. Furthermore, in the context, it should be understood that when an element is mentioned as being connected "upper" or "lower" to another element, it can be directly connected to the other element "upper" or "lower," or indirectly connected through an intermediate element. It should also be understood that directional terms such as upper side, lower side, left side, right side, front side, and rear side not only represent positive orientation but can also be understood as lateral orientation. For example, "below" can include directly below, lower left, lower right, lower front, and lower rear.

[0055] like Figures 1 to 8 As shown, this embodiment provides a dispensing and replenishing system for automatically dispensing medicinal herbs to an automatic dispensing mechanism 1000. The automatic dispensing mechanism 1000 includes a dispensing body with a hopper and an opening connecting to the hopper. Several automatic dispensing mechanisms 1000 are arranged along a first direction. The dispensing and replenishing system includes a medicinal herb storage 100, a conveying mechanism 200, and a replenishing device. The medicinal herb storage 100 is used to store various medicinal herbs. The conveying mechanism 200 is located downstream of the medicinal herb storage 100 and is used to... The medicinal slices in the herbal slices storage 100 are conveyed to the tonic carrier 300, and the tonic carrier 300 is also conveyed. A tonic device is located downstream of the conveying mechanism 200. The tonic device includes a tonic mechanism 400 and a moving mechanism 500. The moving mechanism 500 extends along a first direction, and the tonic mechanism 400 is movably disposed along the moving mechanism 500 along the first direction. It is configured to receive the tonic carrier 300 conveyed by the conveying mechanism 200 and carry the tonic carrier 300 to the automatic dispensing mechanism 1000 where to replenish the corresponding medicinal slices. The first direction is a left-right direction.

[0056] The above setup enables automated management of medicinal slices from storage and delivery to precise dispensing, significantly reducing manual intervention and labor intensity and costs. At the same time, the dispensing device avoids the potential health hazards of dust spillage during traditional manual dispensing, thus improving operational efficiency and ensuring the occupational health and safety of operators.

[0057] The herbal medicine storage 100 contains several bags or boxes filled with medicinal herbs. A bag-opening mechanism 250 or a box-opening mechanism opens the bags or boxes, and the medicinal herbs are poured into the tonic carrier 300. This embodiment focuses on protecting the specific structure of the conveying mechanism 200 and the tonic device, as well as the interrelationship between them. The bag-opening mechanism 250 and the box-opening mechanism can be implemented using existing technology and will not be described in detail here. In other embodiments, the bags or boxes in the herbal medicine storage 100 can be opened manually, and the medicinal herbs placed into the tonic carrier 300.

[0058] To improve the safety of transport, in some embodiments, the supplement carrier 300 includes a supplementary base 310 and a supplementary frame 320. The supplementary frame 320 can be placed in the supplementary groove 311 of the supplementary base 310. The conveying mechanism 200 conveys the supplementary base 310 to move the supplementary frame 320 synchronously to the supplementary device. The supplementary groove 311 forms a positioning constraint on the supplementary frame 320, preventing displacement of the supplementary frame 320 during transport and ensuring the accuracy of the placement of the medicinal materials. At the same time, it facilitates subsequent docking with the supplementary device. Finally, the modular structure facilitates the quick replacement and cleaning maintenance of the supplementary frame 320, adapting to the flexible replenishment needs of different medicinal materials. Each supplementary base 310 has at least two supplementary grooves 311 so that at least two supplementary frames 320 can be held at a time.

[0059] The tonic dispensing system includes several tonic carriers 300, some of which are located in the conveying mechanism 200 and some in the tonic dispensing mechanism 400.

[0060] The replenishment mechanism 400 includes a temporary storage platform 410, a gripping component 420, a lifting component 430, and a replenishment component 440. The temporary storage platform 410 is movably disposed on the moving mechanism 500 along a first direction. The temporary storage platform 410 is equipped with a temporary storage conveyor belt 413 that docks with the conveying mechanism 200. The lifting component 430 is disposed on the temporary storage platform 410, and its output end moves between a lifting state and a retracting state to lift the replenishment carrier 300 or to cause the replenishment seat 310 to fall back onto the temporary storage conveyor belt 413. The output end of the gripping component 420 has a gripping state and a release state to grip or release the lifted replenishment box 320. The replenishment component 440 can support and transfer the replenishment box 320 from the bottom.

[0061] The temporary storage conveyor belt 413 of the temporary storage platform 410 is seamlessly connected to the upstream conveyor mechanism 200 to achieve continuous reception of the medicine carrier 300 and reduce intermediate stagnation. When the lifting component 430 lifts through the output end, it stably supports the feeding seat 310, causing both the feeding seat 310 and the feeding frame 320 to detach from the temporary storage conveyor belt 413. At this time, the gripping component 420 grips the feeding frame 320. When the output end of the lifting component 430 retracts, the feeding seat 310 falls back to its original position, that is, it falls back onto the temporary storage conveyor belt 413, keeping the feeding frame 320 in a high position. At this time, the medicine replenishing component 440 supports the feeding frame 320 from the bottom and transfers it in a directional manner to prevent the feeding frame 320 from tilting, shaking, or the internal medicinal slices from scattering. At the same time, it prevents the feeding frame 320 from being clamped and deformed, ensuring that the shape of the feeding frame 320 remains unchanged under the premise of small thickness, thereby ensuring that the internal medicinal slices are not squeezed and broken.

[0062] The lifting assembly 430 includes a lifting cylinder 431 and a lifting guide rod 432. The temporary storage platform 410 includes a temporary storage base 411 and a temporary storage support frame 412. The temporary storage support frame 412 is slidably mounted on the temporary storage base 411 along a second direction via the lifting guide rod 432. The lifting cylinder 431 is mounted on the temporary storage base 411, and its output end is connected to the temporary storage support frame 412 in a transmission connection. A temporary storage transmission belt 413 is mounted on the temporary storage support frame 412. The second direction is the vertical direction.

[0063] To achieve the position transfer of the replenishment frame 320, in some embodiments, the replenishment assembly 440 includes a robotic arm 441, a support platform 442, a clamping arm 443, and a clamping drive 444. The robotic arm 441 is mounted on a temporary storage base 411, and the support platform 442 is located at the output end of the robotic arm 441, supporting the replenishment frame 320. Two clamping arms 443 are spaced apart from each other on the support platform 442. Each clamping arm 443 has at least one clamping drive 444, whose output end moves between a clamping state and a releasing state to enter or exit the limiting groove 3211 of the replenishment frame 320. The axial direction of the limiting groove 3211 is perpendicular to the axial direction of the replenishment frame 320. The clamping drive 444 ensures that the replenishment frame 320 and the support platform 442 maintain positional stability and prevent relative displacement.

[0064] The clamping arm 443 is provided with a clearance hole, and the clamping drive 444 is disposed on the clamping arm 443, and the limiting shaft 445 of the clamping drive 444 can pass through the clearance hole. The clearance hole can serve as a guide for the limiting shaft 445, ensuring the accuracy and reliability of the movement of the limiting shaft 445. In addition, the clamping drive 444 is disposed outside the clamping space of the two clamping arms 443, which helps to reduce the size of the support platform 442.

[0065] Of course, in other embodiments, the same clamping drive 444 can simultaneously drive two limiting shafts 445 to pass through two clearance holes on the same clamping arm 443 respectively.

[0066] In this embodiment, the clamping arm 443 includes a clamping upright plate 4431 and a reinforcing member 4432. The clamping upright plate 4431 is disposed on the support platform 442, and the reinforcing member 4432 is disposed between the support platform 442 and the clamping upright plate 4431. The clamping drive member 444 is disposed on the clamping upright plate 4431. The above arrangement ensures the support strength of the clamping arm 443 and reduces the overall weight, thereby reducing costs. A clearance hole is provided in the clamping upright plate 4431.

[0067] Furthermore, the reinforcing member 4432 is a hollowed-out part, which saves material and reduces weight while ensuring support strength, facilitates the overall transfer of the load-bearing mechanism, and saves energy consumption during the transfer process of the robotic arm 441.

[0068] Two reinforcing members 4432 are provided, one on each side of the clamping drive member 444. When the clamping drive member 444 is working, its output end applies a lateral force to the feeding frame 320, while it also experiences a reaction force of equal magnitude and opposite direction. This reaction force acts on the clamping plate 4431 through the mounting point, forming a moment that attempts to twist or bend the clamping plate 4431. At this time, the reinforcing members 4432, symmetrically arranged on both sides of the clamping drive member 444, provide completely symmetrical support on both sides of the force-bearing point of the clamping drive member 444. This layout decomposes the load concentrated at one point into two symmetrical and balanced force flow paths transmitted to the support platform 442, which helps to maximize the resistance to the torsional moment generated by the clamping drive member 444, prevents minor deformation or vibration of the clamping plate 4431, and ensures positioning accuracy.

[0069] In this embodiment, the clamping drive 444 is a telescopic cylinder, and the output end of the telescopic cylinder is a limiting shaft 445, which can move into the limiting groove 3211. Each clamping arm 443 is provided with at least two clamping drive components 444. The two clamping drive components 444 on the same clamping arm 443 are arranged at intervals along the axial direction of the feeding frame 320.

[0070] To facilitate precise docking, the replenishment assembly 440 also includes a first detection element 4491, which is located on the clamping arm 443 to detect whether the replenishment frame 320 is located between the two clamping arms 443. The first detection element 4491 can be a proximity switch.

[0071] The supplementary drug assembly 440 also includes a second detection element 4492; the second detection element 4492 is located on the support platform 442 and is used to detect the QR code or barcode at the hopper door so as to open the correct hopper door.

[0072] The replenishment assembly 440 also includes a telescopic member 446, which is disposed on the support platform 442, and the output end of the telescopic member 446 has an extended state and a retracted state; the replenishment frame 320 includes a frame body and a piston 322 disposed inside the frame body, the frame body has a replenishment cavity 3201 and a push hole 3202 communicating with the replenishment cavity 3201, and the piston 322 is movably disposed in the replenishment cavity 3201 along the axial direction of the replenishment frame 320; the output end of the telescopic member 446 can pass through the push hole 3202 and push the piston 322. The above-mentioned setup achieves complete emptying of the medicinal slices inside the replenishment frame 320. The telescopic component 446, located on the support platform 442, can precisely penetrate the push hole 3202 of the replenishment frame 320 and push against the internal piston 322. As the piston 322 moves along the axis of the replenishment frame 320 within the replenishment cavity 3201, it generates a continuous outward thrust, completely pushing out various forms of medicinal slices (granules, powders, flakes, filaments, etc.) from the replenishment cavity 3201 in a preset direction. This completely eliminates the problem of residue at the edges caused by traditional manual pouring or simple pushing, ensuring absolute accuracy of the replenishment dosage (no residual error) and avoiding waste of medicinal slices. Furthermore, it significantly saves labor costs by replacing manual scooping and cleaning with mechanical automation. Simultaneously, the closed fit between the push hole 3202 and the piston 322, and the connection between the opening of the replenishment frame 320 and the hopper opening, ensures that the entire replenishment process is completed inside the replenishment frame 320, minimizing the escape of medicinal slice powder and protecting the health of the equipment and personnel. The telescopic component 446 can be a cylinder or a push rod motor. The opening of the feeding frame 320 is located inside the hopper opening.

[0073] The feeding frame 320 also includes a first limiting member 323, which is disposed on the frame body and is used to limit the lower limit position of the piston 322. The frame body is provided with a first slot 3203 communicating with the feeding cavity 3201. The first limiting member 323 includes an annular frame and a first engaging portion. The annular frame is at least partially located in the frame body, and the first engaging portion engages in the first slot 3203.

[0074] The annular frame includes a first ring 3231 and a second ring 3232. The second ring 3232 is located at the bottom of the first ring 3231, and the outer diameter of the second ring 3232 is larger than that of the first ring 3232. The first ring 3231 is located in the frame body, and the second ring 3232 abuts against the bottom of the frame body. A first snap-fit ​​portion is located on the first ring 3231. The first snap-fit ​​portion includes a first elastic arm 3233 and a first snap-fit ​​protrusion 3234. The first elastic arm 3233 is located at the end of the first ring 3231 away from the second ring 3232, and the first snap-fit ​​protrusion 3234 is located at the end of the first elastic arm 3233 away from the first ring 3231, protrudes outward, and is inserted into the first snap-fit ​​groove 3203, abutting against the lower side wall of the first snap-fit ​​groove 3203.

[0075] The outer periphery of the ring frame is provided with 2-6 first snap-fit ​​parts to improve the uniformity of force distribution on the ring frame.

[0076] The feeding frame 320 also includes a second limiting member 324, which is used to limit the upper limit position of the piston 322. The frame body is provided with a second slot communicating with the feeding cavity 3201. The second limiting member 324 includes a limiting protrusion and a second engaging part provided on the limiting protrusion. The limiting protrusion is located in the frame body, and the second engaging part is engaged in the second slot.

[0077] The feeding frame 320 also includes a limiting block 321, which is located on the outside of the frame body, and a limiting groove 3211 is formed in the limiting block 321. The above arrangement allows the frame body to be less thick, reducing weight and cost; at the same time, it ensures the length of the limiting groove 3211 to provide a reliable limiting function.

[0078] The outer side of the frame body is provided with at least four limiting grooves 3211, which are distributed on two opposite side walls of the frame body. The setting of the four limiting grooves 3211 allows the entire feeding frame 320 to cooperate with the four limiting shafts 445, thereby improving the force balance.

[0079] The feeding frame 320 also includes reinforcing ribs 325, which are located on the outer side of the frame body, with some reinforcing ribs 325 positioned between the limiting block 321 and the frame body. This configuration improves the structural strength of the frame body and the connection strength between the limiting block 321 and the frame body. To facilitate the insertion of the limiting shaft 445, the opening of the limiting groove 3211 is flared.

[0080] The automatic dispensing mechanism 1000 includes a hopper cover connected to the dispensing body and switching between an open and closed state to open or close the hopper opening; the replenishment device includes an actuating element 447 and an actuating drive element 448. The actuating element 447 is located on the clamping arm 443, and the actuating drive element 448 is located on the clamping arm 443 and is drively connected to the actuating element 447 to drive the actuating element 447 to switch between an extended state and a folded state. When the actuating element 447 is in the extended state, the actuating end of the actuating element 447 is located outside the support platform 442 and can overlap with the hopper cover. The above-mentioned settings significantly improve the automation level and operational continuity of the system: the integrated design of the actuating component 447 and the clamping arm 443, and the precise transmission of the actuating drive component 448, ensure that the timing and force of the cover-opening action are controllable, avoiding jamming or accidental contact and improving reliability; the timely opening and closing of the hopper cover also maintains the airtightness of the automatic adjustment mechanism 1000, further preventing dust from overflowing and ensuring a healthy operating environment.

[0081] The conveying mechanism 200 includes a primary conveyor line 210 and a tonic transfer line 220. The primary conveyor line 210 is located between the tonic transfer line 220 and the herbal medicine storage 100, and is used to transfer the herbal medicine to the tonic carrier 300 in the tonic transfer line 220. The tonic transfer line 220 is located between the primary conveyor line 210 and the tonic device, and is used to transfer the tonic carrier 300 containing the herbal medicine to the tonic device. This conveying mechanism 200, through the segmented design of the primary conveyor line 210 and the tonic transfer line 220, significantly optimizes the efficiency of herbal medicine transfer, reduces the complexity of a single segment through modular division of labor, and facilitates maintenance and troubleshooting. The primary conveyor line 210 is located adjacent to the herbal medicine storage 100 and focuses on accurately loading the herbal medicines into the tonic carrier 300 of the tonic transfer line 220, reducing manual intervention in intermediate steps. The primary conveyor line 210 can be equipped with a tilting structure at the end to pour the bagged herbal medicines into the replenishment frame 320. The tonic transfer line 220 serves as a dedicated transfer channel, receiving the replenishment frames 320 already filled with herbal medicines and directionally transferring them to the tonic device.

[0082] The conveying mechanism 200 includes a vision inspection component 230, which is configured to detect the correctness of the medicinal herbs within the tonic carrier 300 using a vision module. This setup, through real-time online accuracy detection of the medicinal herbs within the tonic carrier 300 using a vision module, enhances the automated quality control capabilities and reliability of the tonic dispensing system. The vision module, based on image recognition technology (such as shape, color, texture, and identifier matching), accurately determines whether the type, quantity, and form of the medicinal herbs in the tonic carrier 300 conform to preset standards (e.g., whether they are incorrectly packaged, missing, mixed with foreign objects, or defective herbs). This completely replaces traditional manual visual inspection, significantly saving labor costs and enabling 24-hour uninterrupted detection. The detection process is embedded in the transfer line, allowing for the immediate interception of erroneous tonic carriers 300 before they reach the tonic dispensing device, preventing incorrect herbs from entering the automatic dispensing mechanism 1000 and causing dispensing deviations or contamination. This ensures the accuracy and hygiene of subsequent dispensing from the source. Simultaneously, the detection results can be fed back to the control system in real time, triggering abnormal warnings or automatic sorting, optimizing the efficiency of abnormal handling.

[0083] The conveying mechanism 200 also includes a weighing detection component, configured to detect whether the weight of the medicinal slices in the tonic carrier 300 is within a set range via a weighing module. The weighing module performs precise real-time verification of the weight of the medicinal slices in the tonic carrier 300, further improving the system's automated quality control level and dispensing accuracy. The weighing module collects the weight data of the tonic carrier 300 in real time based on a high-precision sensor and compares it with the preset standard weight range for the medicinal slices, quickly determining whether there is over- or under-filling (e.g., weight deviation from the range is considered abnormal). This completely replaces traditional manual weighing operations, achieving 24-hour uninterrupted automated detection, significantly saving labor costs and eliminating human reading errors. Similarly, the detection process of the weighing detection component is embedded in the tonic transfer line 220, allowing for the immediate interception of tonic carriers 300 with abnormal weights before they are transferred to the tonic device. Simultaneously, the weighing detection component complements quality control methods such as visual inspection, enhancing the intelligent precision and reliability of traditional Chinese medicine dispensing.

[0084] The tonic transfer line 220 is ring-shaped and drives the tonic carrier 300 to move between the sending and receiving positions. When the tonic carrier 300 is in the sending position, it can be transferred to the tonic device; when the tonic carrier 300 is in the receiving position, it can receive the medicinal slices transmitted by the primary transfer line 210. The above configuration improves the system's space utilization and circulation efficiency, and realizes the efficient reuse of the tonic carrier 300.

[0085] Even after the feed crate 320 is pushed against the piston 322 by the telescopic component 446 to achieve "residue-free ejection" of the medicinal slices, trace amounts of powder may still remain stuck to the walls or beaded debris. The feed transfer line 220 is equipped with a cleaning component 240 to clean the feed crate 320, allowing it to accept new medicinal slices again. Specifically, the cleaning component 240 precisely removes residues from the inner wall of the crate body, around the push hole 3202, and in the dead corners of the feed cavity 3201 through brush scraping, air blowing, or gentle wiping, completely eliminating the risk of secondary contamination after cleaning and ensuring the purity of subsequently loaded medicinal slices.

[0086] A reset component is installed on the refill transfer line 220, which forces the piston 322 to the bottom of the refill frame 320. This achieves a closed-loop recycling of the refill frame 320. The reset component can be a pneumatic push rod, a spring reset mechanism, or an electric pressure plate. It acts on the top of the piston 322, using controllable axial pressure to force the piston 322 from any position (such as the high position after being pushed back) of the refill cavity 3201 back to the bottom limit position, completely emptying the refill cavity 3201 and ensuring that the volume of the refill cavity 3201 is completely released, providing a precise volume reference for loading new medicinal materials. The reset component is located upstream of the cleaning component 240.

[0087] The primary conveyor line 210 includes a conveyor line or an AGV. The primary conveyor line 210 also includes a bag-opening mechanism 250, located downstream of the conveyor line. This mechanism receives and tears open the bags of medicinal herbs conveyed by the conveyor line and pours the herbs into the replenishment box 320. This automates the process of retrieving bagged medicinal herbs from the medicinal herb storage 100, automatically tearing the bags, and precisely pouring them into the replenishment box 320, thus improving the automation efficiency of medicinal herb feeding. The conveyor line or AGV acts as a carrier, automatically locating and retrieving bagged medicinal herbs from the medicinal herb storage 100, replacing traditional manual handling and reducing physical exertion and material handling errors. The bag-opening mechanism 250 is integrated into the transfer node, precisely breaking the bags through mechanical methods such as blade cutting and roller tearing, avoiding contact contamination and bag fragment residue from manual bag opening, while controlling the tearing force to prevent damage to the medicinal herbs. After tearing, the medicinal herbs fall directionally into the replenishment box 320 through a guide channel or negative pressure adsorption.

[0088] The automatic dispensing mechanism 1000 adopts a two-row layout and is located on both sides of the moving mechanism 500. Through spatial symmetry, the number of automatic dispensing mechanisms 1000 is increased, space occupancy is reduced, and work efficiency is improved. The path of the moving mechanism 500 extending along the first direction can simultaneously cover the automatic dispensing mechanisms 1000 on both sides. When the medicine replenishment mechanism 400 moves along this path, it can access each dispensing position on each side in sequence with the shortest travel distance, reducing empty travel distance and waiting time.

[0089] The moving mechanism 500 can be a guide rail, and the replenishing mechanism 400 has wheels underneath to facilitate movement on the guide rail.

[0090] This embodiment also provides a method for administering tonics, applied to any of the above-mentioned tonic dispensing systems, including the following method:

[0091] The medicinal slices are transferred from the medicinal slices storage 100 to the tonic mechanism 400 of the tonic device via the conveying mechanism 200.

[0092] The medicine replenishment mechanism 400 moves along the first direction on the moving mechanism 500 and determines whether the automatic dispensing mechanism 1000 directly opposite needs medicine replenishment; if yes, it stops moving and replenishes the corresponding medicinal pieces to the automatic dispensing mechanism 1000 at that location; otherwise, it continues to move and faces the downstream automatic dispensing mechanism 1000.

[0093] Specifically, the bagged medicinal slices in the medicinal slices storage 100 are conveyed to the unpacking mechanism 250 via the primary conveyor line 210. The unpacking mechanism 250 opens the bag and pours the medicinal slices into the tonic carrier 300.

[0094] The tonic carrier 300 moves along the tonic transfer line 220 and passes through the visual detection component 230. The visual detection component 230 determines whether the medicinal slices in the tonic carrier 300 correspond to the medicinal slices required by the system. If they do, the carrier continues to move; otherwise, it stops and issues an alarm.

[0095] The weighing and detection component verifies whether the weight of the medicinal slices in the medicine carrier 300 is within the set range. If it is, the medicine carrier continues to move to the temporary storage platform 410 of the medicine mechanism 400; otherwise, the movement stops and an alarm is issued.

[0096] The replenishment mechanism 400, carrying multiple replenishment carriers 300, moves along the moving mechanism 500 to the automatic dispensing mechanism 1000 where replenishment is needed. The actuating element 447 on the clamping arm 443 switches to the extended state, and under the action of the robotic arm 441, opens the hopper cover and pours the medicinal slices into the hopper. Then, the hopper cover is closed again through the cooperation of the actuating element 447 and the robotic arm 441. After replenishment, the replenishment mechanism 400, carrying an empty replenishment box 320, moves to the replenishment transfer line 220 and transfers the slices there. It then moves sequentially to the reset component and the cleaning component 240, and finally to the unpacking mechanism 250 to receive the next batch of medicinal slices.

[0097] Obviously, the above embodiments of the present invention are merely examples for clearly illustrating the present invention, and are not intended to limit the implementation of the present invention. Those skilled in the art will be able to make various obvious changes, readjustments, and substitutions without departing from the scope of protection of the present invention. It is neither necessary nor possible to exhaustively describe all embodiments here. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the claims of the present invention.

Claims

1. A dispensing and replenishing system for replenishing medicinal herbs to an automatic dispensing mechanism (1000), the automatic dispensing mechanism (1000) comprising a dispensing body having a hopper and an opening communicating with the hopper; a plurality of the automatic dispensing mechanisms (1000) arranged along a first direction; Its features are, The medication dispensing system includes: The medicinal slices storage area (100) is used to store various medicinal slices; A conveying mechanism (200) is located downstream of the medicinal herb storage (100) and is used to convey the medicinal herbs in the medicinal herb storage (100) to the tonic carrier (300) and to transfer the tonic carrier (300). A medicine replenishment device is located downstream of the conveying mechanism (200). The medicine replenishment device includes a medicine replenishment mechanism (400) and a moving mechanism (500). The moving mechanism (500) extends along a first direction. The medicine replenishment mechanism (400) is movably located on the moving mechanism (500) along the first direction and is configured to receive the medicine carrier (300) transmitted by the conveying mechanism (200) and carry the medicine carrier (300) to the opening of the automatic dispensing mechanism (1000) that needs medicine replenishment and replenish the corresponding medicinal pieces.

2. The dispensing and tonic system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The supplement carrier (300) includes a supplement base (310) and a supplement frame (320). The supplement frame (320) can be placed in the supplement slot (311) of the supplement base (310). The conveying mechanism (200) conveys the supplement base (310) to drive the supplement frame (320) to move synchronously to the supplement device; and / or, The medication dispensing system includes several medication carriers (300).

3. The dispensing and tonic system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The replenishment mechanism (400) includes a temporary storage platform (410), a gripping component (420), a lifting component (430), and a replenishment component (440). The temporary storage platform (410) is movably disposed on the moving mechanism (500) along a first direction. The temporary storage platform (410) is equipped with a temporary storage conveyor belt (413) that docks with the conveying mechanism (200). The lifting component (430) is disposed on the temporary storage platform (410), and its output end moves between a lifting state and a retracting state to lift the replenishment carrier (300) or cause the replenishment seat (310) to fall back onto the temporary storage conveyor belt (413). The output end of the gripping component (420) has a gripping state and a release state to grip or release the lifted replenishment box (320). The replenishment component (440) can support and transfer the replenishment box (320) from the bottom.

4. The dispensing and tonic system according to claim 3, characterized in that, The tonic component (440) includes: A robotic arm (441) is located on the temporary storage platform (410). A support platform (442) is provided at the output end of the robotic arm (441), and the support platform (442) is used to support the feeding frame (320). Clamping arms (443), two clamping arms (443) are spaced apart on the support platform (442). Clamping drive (444), each of the clamping arms (443) is provided with at least one clamping drive (444), the output end of the clamping drive (444) moves between a clamping state and a releasing state to move into or out of the limiting groove (321) of the feeding frame (320).

5. The dispensing and tonic system according to claim 4, characterized in that, The replenishment assembly (440) also includes a telescopic member (446), which is disposed on the support platform (442), and the output end of the telescopic member (446) has an extended state and a retracted state; the replenishment frame (320) includes a frame body and a piston (322) disposed inside the frame body, the frame body has a replenishment cavity and a push hole (3202) communicating with the replenishment cavity, and the piston (322) is movably disposed in the replenishment cavity along the axial direction of the replenishment frame (320); the output end of the telescopic member (446) can pass through the push hole (3202) and push the piston (322).

6. The dispensing and tonic system according to claim 4, characterized in that, The automatic dispensing mechanism (1000) includes a hopper cover, which is connected to the dispensing body and switches between an open state and a closed state to open or close the hopper opening; The medication replenishment device includes an actuating element (447) and an actuating drive element (448). The actuating element (447) is located on the clamping arm (443), and the actuating drive element (448) is located on the clamping arm (443) and is connected to the actuating element (447) in a transmission manner to drive the actuating element (447) to switch between an extended state and a folded state. When the actuating element (447) is in the extended state, the actuating end of the actuating element (447) is located outside the support platform (442) and can overlap with the hopper cover.

7. The dispensing and tonic system according to any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that, The conveying mechanism (200) includes a primary conveying line (210) and a tonic transfer line (220). The primary conveying line (210) is located between the tonic transfer line (220) and the herbal medicine storage (100) and is used to transfer the herbal medicine to the tonic carrier (300) of the tonic transfer line (220). The tonic transfer line (220) is located between the primary conveying line (210) and the tonic device and is used to transfer the tonic carrier (300) containing the herbal medicine to the tonic device.

8. The dispensing and tonic system according to claim 7, characterized in that, The conveying mechanism (200) includes a vision inspection component (230) configured to detect, via a vision module, whether the medicinal slices within the tonic carrier (300) are correct; and / or, The conveying mechanism (200) also includes a weighing detection component, which is configured to detect whether the weight of the medicinal slices in the tonic carrier (300) is within a set range by a weighing module.

9. The dispensing and tonic system according to claim 7, characterized in that, The tonic transfer line (220) is ring-shaped and drives the tonic carrier (300) to move between the sending position and the receiving position. When the tonic carrier (300) is in the sending position, it can be transmitted to the tonic device. When the tonic carrier (300) is in the receiving position, it can receive the medicinal slices transmitted by the primary transmission line (210).

10. A method for administering tonics, applied to the tonic dispensing system as described in any one of claims 1-9, characterized in that, Including the following methods: The medicinal slices are transferred from the medicinal slices storage (100) to the replenishment mechanism (400) of the replenishment device via the conveying mechanism (200); The medicine replenishment mechanism (400) moves along the first direction on the moving mechanism (500) and determines whether the automatic dispensing mechanism (1000) directly opposite needs medicine replenishment; if yes, it stops moving and replenishes the corresponding medicinal pieces to the automatic dispensing mechanism (1000); otherwise, it continues to move and faces the downstream automatic dispensing mechanism (1000).

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