Powder measuring device and powder measuring method

Abstract

To provide a powder measuring device capable of automatically performing work of measuring powder.SOLUTION: A powder measuring device for discharging a prescribed amount of powder, comprises: medicine container placement means on which a medicine container is placed; weighing means having a display function for displaying a weight; and input means. The medicine container placement means includes container weight measuring means for directly or indirectly measuring a weight of the medicine container, and medicine discharge means for discharging the powder from the medicine container. A discharge amount of the powder discharged from the medicine container can be detected by the container weight measuring means. The weighing means is located in the vicinity of the medicine container placement means and measures the weight of the powder discharged from the medicine container, and inputs a prescribed amount in the input means, The discharge means is driven to discharge the powder from the medicine container. The container weight measuring means monitors the discharge amount of the powder discharged from the medicine container. On condition that the discharge amount of the powder reaches the prescribed amount, the medicine discharge means is stopped.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a powder weighing device capable of weighing a predetermined amount of powder medicine. The present invention also relates to a powder weighing method.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, in large hospitals and large-scale pharmacies, medicine packaging devices (hereinafter sometimes referred to as powder medicine packaging devices) having a function of packaging powder medicine in individual doses have been introduced. A powder medicine packaging device is a device that individually packages powder medicine in each dose. Powder medicine packaging devices are roughly classified into a type called the V-shaped hopper method and a type called the distribution tray method. The V-shaped hopper type powder medicine packaging device is disclosed in, for example, Patent Documents 1 and 2. The distribution tray type powder medicine packaging device is disclosed in, for example, Patent Documents 3 and 4.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Patent Document 3

Patent Document 4

Patent Document 5

Patent Document 6

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] Using a powder dispensing device requires manual measurement of the powder. Specifically, it's necessary to place the weighing pan on a scale, scoop the powder from the medicine bottle using a spatula or similar tool, transfer it to the weighing pan, and then weigh it. This process requires careful handling and is time-consuming. Furthermore, only pharmacists are permitted to perform this task. Focusing on the points mentioned above, this invention proposes a powder dispensing device that can automatically measure out powdered medicine, with the aim of simplifying dispensing work. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] An embodiment for solving the above-mentioned problems is a powder dispensing device for dispensing a predetermined amount of powder, comprising: a drug container placement means on which a drug container is placed; a weighing means equipped with a display function for displaying weight; and an input means, wherein the drug container placement means has a container weight measuring means for directly or indirectly measuring the weight of the drug container and a drug dispensing means for dispensing powder from the drug container, the container weight measuring means can detect the amount of powder discharged from the drug container, the weighing means is located near the drug container placement means and measures the weight of the powder discharged from the drug container, a predetermined amount is input to the input means, the dispensing means is driven to discharge powder from the drug container, the amount of powder discharged from the drug container is monitored by the container weight measuring means, and the drug dispensing means is stopped when the amount of powder discharged reaches the predetermined amount.

[0006] According to the powder dispensing device of this embodiment, the drug container placement means is driven based on information input by the input means, and powder is discharged from the drug container. The amount of powder discharged is detected by the change in the weight of the drug container. That is, the drug container placement means has a container weight measuring means for measuring the weight of the drug container, and the amount of powder discharged from the drug container can be detected by the container weight measuring means. In this embodiment of the powder dispensing device, the amount of powder dispensed from the drug container is detected by a signal from the drug container placement means's own container weight measuring means. The drug dispensing means stops when the amount of powder dispensed reaches a predetermined amount. This provides quick feedback and a short dispensing time. Furthermore, this embodiment of the powder dispensing device offers high precision in timing control during dispensing and stopping, enabling accurate dispensing. In this embodiment of the powder dispensing device, a weighing means is positioned near the drug container holder, and the weight of the powder dispensed from the drug container can be measured by the weighing means. The weighing means used in this embodiment is equipped with a display function that shows the weight, so the amount of powder dispensed can be confirmed visually.

[0007] In the embodiment described above, it is desirable that the weighing means and the input means are equipped in a single weighing device, and that the predetermined amount is input by operating the weighing device.

[0008] In this embodiment, the weighing means and input means are combined into a single weighing device, thus saving space.

[0009] In the embodiment described above, it is desirable that the weighing device includes a comparison means for comparing the weight of the drug measured by the weighing means with the predetermined amount input to the input means.

[0010] According to this embodiment, it is possible to determine whether the correct amount of powder has been dispensed from the drug container. Furthermore, according to this embodiment, it is possible to verify with a weighing device whether the amount of powder dispensed from the drug container is correct.

[0011] In the above-described embodiment, it is desirable that the weighing device also be capable of weighing powdered medicine that has been manually dispensed by an operator.

[0012] The weighing device used in this embodiment is highly versatile.

[0013] Another embodiment for solving a similar problem is a powder dispensing device comprising a drug container capable of containing powder, a drug dispensing means for dispensing the powder from the drug container, a container weight measuring means for directly or indirectly measuring the weight of the drug container, a weighing means for weighing the powder, and a control means, wherein the control means can switch between a first mode in which, according to a target value of the amount of powder related to an input supply instruction, the drug dispensing means dispenses the powder from the drug container while measuring with the container weight measuring means and weighs the powder with the weighing means, and a second mode in which the powder is manually placed on the weighing means and weighed by the weighing means without dispensing the powder from the drug container with the drug dispensing means.

[0014] The powder weighing device of this embodiment is highly versatile.

[0015] Another embodiment for solving a similar problem is a powder dispensing device for dispensing a predetermined amount of powder, comprising a housing member having an openable and closable cover, a drug container capable of containing powder, a drug container mounting means on which the drug container is placed, and a weighing means equipped with a display unit, wherein the drug container mounting means includes a container weight measuring means for directly or indirectly measuring the weight of the drug container, and a drug discharge means for dispensing powder from the drug container, the container weight measuring means is capable of detecting the amount of powder discharged from the drug container, the weighing means is located near the drug container mounting means and measures the weight of the powder discharged from the drug container, and part or all of the drug container, part or all of the drug container mounting means and part of the weighing means are arranged in the area of ​​the housing member that is covered by the cover when the cover is closed, and the display unit of the weighing means is located in a position exposed from the cover.

[0016] According to this embodiment, the display unit of the weighing means can be visually inspected even when the cover is closed. It is desirable that the weighing mechanism can be operated by touching the display unit. For example, it is desirable that the display unit serves as both a display device and an input device (input means).

[0017] In each of the above-described aspects, it has a weighing container, places the weighing container on the weighing means, receives the bulk medicine discharged from the medicine container in the weighing container, and measures the weight of the bulk medicine. It is desirable that the weight of the weighing container is stored, and a predetermined notification is made when the difference between the weight of the weighing container placed on the weighing means and the stored weight of the weighing container is a predetermined value or more.

[0018] According to this aspect, it is possible to detect whether there is a foreign object in the weighing container. For example, in the previous bulk medicine dispensing, there may be a case where the bulk medicine discharged from the medicine container remains in the weighing container. In the bulk medicine weighing device of this aspect, the weight of the weighing container is stored, and when the weight of the weighing container placed on the weighing means is different from the stored weight of the weighing container by a predetermined value or more, a predetermined notification is made. Therefore, when the bulk medicine remains, a notification is made. Thus, the operator can notice the remaining bulk medicine.

[0019] Another aspect for solving the same problem uses a container vibration means for vibrating the medicine container, a container weight measuring means for measuring the weight of the medicine container, a weighing container, and a weighing means. The weighing container is placed on the weighing means, the medicine container is vibrated by the container vibration means to discharge the bulk medicine from the medicine container into the weighing container, and at this time, the weight change of the medicine container is monitored by the container weight measuring means and the amount of the bulk medicine discharged into the weighing container is measured by the weighing means. The discharge amount of the bulk medicine is calculated from the weight change of the medicine container, and when the discharge amount of the bulk medicine calculated from the weight change or / and the measured value of the weighing means reaches a certain value, the vibration of the medicine container by the container vibration means is stopped. This is a bulk medicine weighing method.

[0020] In the bulk medicine weighing method of this aspect, since the discharge amount of the bulk medicine is detected by both the container weight measuring means and the weighing container, the reliability is high.

[0021] Another embodiment for solving a similar problem is a dispensing system that includes the above-described powder weighing device and a powder dispensing device equipped with a dispensing tray, wherein the powder dispensing device has multiple hoppers for placing powders to be put into the dispensing tray, and when multiple powders are prescribed for the same patient, a display prompts the patient to put the powders into separate hoppers.

[0022] According to the packaging system of this embodiment, the problems caused by overlapping application can be prevented.

[0023] Another embodiment for solving a similar problem is a dispensing system that includes the above-described powder weighing device and a powder dispensing device equipped with a dispensing tray, wherein the powder dispensing device has a plurality of hoppers for holding powder to be placed in the dispensing tray and has a means for reading information corresponding to each hopper, the powder weighing device receives the powder discharged from the drug container into a weighing container and measures the weight of the powder, the weighing container is provided with an information storage member, and by reading the information storage member with the reading means it recognizes whether the powder in the weighing container is the powder that should be placed in the hopper, and a predetermined notification is given when, in response to the reading of information from one of the plurality of hoppers, information is read from the information storage members of different weighing containers in succession.

[0024] Another embodiment for solving a similar problem is a dispensing system that includes the above-described powder weighing device and a powder dispensing device equipped with a dispensing tray, wherein the powder dispensing device has two hoppers for holding powder to be placed in the dispensing tray and has reading means corresponding to each hopper, the powder weighing device receives the powder discharged from the drug container into a weighing container and measures the weight of the powder, and in the case where multiple powders are prescribed for the same patient, when the reading means of one hopper is made to read the information from the information storage member of a specific weighing container, the reading means of the other hopper is instructed to read the information from the information storage member of the other weighing container, and provided that the loading of powder into the dispensing tray corresponding to the first hopper is completed, the dispensing system is characterized by providing guidance to allow the loading of powder from the next other weighing container into the first hopper.

[0025] Another embodiment for solving a similar problem is a dispensing system that includes the above-mentioned powder weighing device and a powder dispensing device equipped with a dispensing tray, characterized in that, when multiple powders are prescribed to the same patient, the system provides guidance allowing subsequent powders to be put into the hopper only after the distribution of the previous powder into the dispensing tray has been completed. [Effects of the Invention]

[0026] According to the powder dispensing device of the present invention, the process of dispensing powder can be performed automatically, simplifying the dispensing process that uses a drug packaging device. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0027] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view of a powder dispensing device according to an embodiment of the present invention, showing the device with the cover closed. [Figure 2] Figure 1 is a perspective view of the powder dispensing device with the cover partially open. [Figure 3] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a powder dispensing device, with the cover omitted. [Figure 4]Figure 1 shows a powder dispensing device with the cover omitted and the drug container and weighing container removed, from a perspective view. [Figure 5] (a) and (b) are perspective views of the weighing pan used in the powder dispensing device shown in Figure 1, observed from different directions. [Figure 6] This is a block diagram of a powder weighing device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] This is a perspective view of a drug container and drug container stand, with the drug container removed from the drug container stand. [Figure 8] This is a side view modeling a drug container and drug container stand, showing the drug container in a state where it has been removed from the drug container stand. [Figure 9] (a) is a cross-sectional view of a drug container, and (b) is a magnified view thereof. [Figure 10] This is one of the display screens on the display unit of a powder dispensing device, and it is a display that distinguishes users when they log in. [Figure 11] This is one of the display screens of the display unit of a powder dispensing device, and is a dispensing screen, where (a) is the display screen when manual mode (second mode) is selected as the operating mode, and (b) is the display screen when automatic mode (first mode) is selected as the operating mode. [Figure 12] This is one of the display screens on the display unit of a powder dispensing device, and it displays a list of prescriptions. [Figure 13] This is one of the display screens on the display unit of a powder dispensing device, specifically a dispensing screen, where the prescription details are displayed in the prescription display field. [Figure 14] This is one of the display screens on the display unit of a powder dispensing device, specifically the discharge input screen, and is the display screen when automatic mode (first mode) is selected as the operating mode. [Figure 15] This is one of the display screens of the display unit of the powder weighing device, and is a confirmation screen in automatic tare mode, where (a) to (d) show the display content at each stage. [Figure 16]This is one of the display screens on the display unit of a powder dispensing device, and it displays the weighed value of the drug container. (a) shows the state when the drug container is not placed on the balance platform, and (b) shows the state when the drug container is placed on the balance platform. [Figure 17] This is one of the display screens on the display unit of a powder dispensing device, which displays the weighed value of the powder, where (a) shows the state in which the powder is being dispensed from the drug container, and (b) shows the state in which the dispensing of the powder from the drug container has been completed. [Figure 18] This is one of the display screens on the display unit of a powder dispensing device, and is a confirmation screen that shows the weighing result. (a) is the display when a pharmacist is logged in and the amount dispensed exceeds the target amount, (b) is the display when a non-pharmacist is logged in and the amount dispensed exceeds the target amount, and (c) is the display when the amount dispensed matches the target value. [Figure 19] This is one of the display screens on the display unit of a powder dispensing device, and it is a comment display dialog screen. [Figure 20] This is one of the display screens on the display unit of a powder dispensing device, and is a dispensing machine information input screen that identifies a powder dispensing device, etc., where (a) is a screen that identifies a powder dispensing device, and (b) is a screen that identifies a hopper. [Figure 21] This is one of the display screens on the display unit of a powder dispensing device, and it is an information screen that notifies the user of a shortage of medication. [Figure 22] These are the display screens of the display unit of the powder dispensing device, and (a) to (c) are the screens displayed when filling the drug container with drug. [Figure 23] These are some of the display screens on the display unit of a powder dispensing device; (a) and (b) are the screens displayed when filling a drug container with drug. [Figure 24] This diagram shows a powder packaging device, including a perspective view of the main body and a separate enlarged view of the surrounding area when a portion of the small lid is open. [Figure 25] Figure 24 is a plan view showing the powder dispensing area built into the powder dispensing device. [Figure 26]Figure 24 shows one of the display screens of the powder packaging device, which is the dispensing monitor screen when an unconfirmed prescription is transmitted from another device. [Figure 27] This is one of the display screens on the display unit of the powder packaging device shown in Figure 24, and it is the unapproved list screen, which is one of the screens accessed from the dispensing monitor screen shown in Figure 25. [Figure 28] This is one of the display screens on the display unit of the powder packaging device shown in Figure 24, and it is the approved list screen, which is one of the screens accessed from the unapproved list screen shown in Figure 27. [Figure 29] Figure 24 shows one of the display screens on the powder packaging device, displaying a list of medications prescribed to a specific patient. [Figure 30] Figure 24 shows one of the display screens on the powder packaging device, which is a list that displays only the powdered medications extracted from the drugs prescribed to a specific patient. [Figure 31] Figure 24 shows one of the display screens on the display unit of the powder packaging device, which prompts the user to dispense the powder. [Figure 32] Figure 24 shows one of the display screens on the display unit of the powder packaging device, and is the prescription input screen where prescriptions to be packaged by the powder packaging device are entered. [Figure 33] This is a side view of a drug container with a funnel attached. [Figure 34] This is a perspective view of the main body of a powder weighing device according to another embodiment of the present invention, with the cover omitted. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0028] The following describes a powder dispensing device 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. In the following description, unless otherwise specified, the vertical positional relationship will be described based on the normal installation state (the state shown in Figure 1).

[0029] As shown in Figures 1 to 3, the powder dispensing device 1 according to this embodiment consists of a main unit 5, a barcode reader 6, and a printer 7. The main unit 5 shown in Figures 1 to 4 has a drug container stand 10 and a weighing device 12 housed inside a housing member 2 (case member). The housing member 2 has a cover 11. The cover 11 is pivotally supported on the main body portion of the housing member 2 via a pin 17 and rotates about the pin 17. As shown in Figure 3, a drug container 31 is attached to the drug container mounting stand 10, and a weighing container 15 is placed on the weighing device 12. The housing component 2 also contains an electronic paper rewriting device 8 (see Figure 4) and a camera 18 (see Figures 1 and 2).

[0030] As described above, the housing member 2 is provided with a cover 11. When the cover 11 is closed, the cover 11 covers the top and sides of the drug container 31 and the weighing container 15, as shown in Figure 1. In other words, the entirety of the drug container 31, the entirety of the drug container mounting stand (drug container mounting means) 10, and a part of the weighing device 12 (weighing means) are arranged in the area that is covered by the cover 11 when the cover 11 is closed, and the display unit 26 of the weighing device 12 is in a position that is exposed from the cover 11. In addition, a portion of the drug container 31 or a portion of the drug container holder (drug container holder means) may be exposed from the cover 11. Furthermore, when the cover 11 is opened, as shown in Figure 2, it becomes possible to attach and detach the drug container 31, place the weighing container 15 on the balance platform 85 (weighing container placement section), and move the drug container 31 and weighing container 15 from the inside to the outside and from the outside to the inside. Furthermore, the powder dispensing device 1 has a sensor member (not shown) that detects when the cover 11 is closed, and can automatically determine whether the cover 11 is closed or open. In addition, when the cover 11 is closed, it is possible to set it to a locked state that prevents it from opening, and it is possible to switch between the locked state and the unlocked state (a state in which the cover 11 can be opened).

[0031] As shown in Figure 3, the powder dispensing device 1 performs a dispensing operation in which the powder is discharged from the drug container 31 into the weighing container 15 while the drug container 31 is placed on the drug container stand 10 and the weighing container 15 is placed on the weighing device 12. The following describes each component.

[0032] (Weighing container 15) The weighing container 15 is also called a weighing pan, and as shown in Figure 5, it has a pan-shaped part 20 on its upper surface for receiving powdered medicine. Furthermore, the lower part of the dish-shaped portion 20 has square-shaped legs 21. One outer wall surface of the weighing container 15 is provided with a display member placement section 23 for mounting a rewritable display member 22. In this embodiment, the display member 22 is provided as a display medium such as electronic paper, which allows the display content to be electrically rewritten. The display member 22 displays information that identifies the weighed drug (such as the name of the drug), information related to the prescription, information that identifies the packaging device into which the weighed drug is dispensed, and information that identifies the location where the powder is dispensed in the packaging device (hopper information of the packaging device). In this embodiment, the display member 22 displays information that identifies the prescription, such as the prescription number, information that identifies the weighed drug (such as the name of the drug), and the weight of the powder contained in the weighing container 15.

[0033] Furthermore, an information storage member 25 is provided on another side of the weighing container 15. In this embodiment, an RFID chip is provided as the information storage member. The information storage element 25 stores information such as an ID that identifies the weighing container 15, information that identifies the prescription, information that identifies the weighed drug (such as the name of the drug), and the weight of the powdered medicine contained in the weighing container 15. Prescription information is also stored there. The dish-shaped portion 20 has a flange, and the flange corresponding to the side to which the information storage member 25 is attached has text 27 indicating the mounting position of the weighing container 15. Specifically, the words "reading position" are written as text indicating the mounting position of the weighing container 15.

[0034] (Weighing device 12) As shown in Figure 6, the weighing device 12 includes a balance unit (weighing means) 80, an information reading means 81, a display unit 26, a communication means 82, a control means 83, and a data storage unit 86. The barcode reader 6 and printer 7 are also connected to the weighing device 12. The balance unit 80 is used to weigh powdered medication. The barcode reader 6 functions as a means for reading prescription information and information about the contained medication. The barcode reader 6, used as a means for reading prescription information, reads prescription information from a prescription, including prescription drug identification information that identifies one or more prescribed drugs recorded on the prescription. The barcode reader 6, acting as a means for reading contained drug information, reads contained drug information from drug bottles or other drug containers that identify the contained drug. The barcode reader 6 reads information from one-dimensional barcodes such as JAN codes, RSS, and GS1 DataBar, as well as two-dimensional codes such as QR codes (registered trademark).

[0035] The operator operates the barcode reader 6 to read the dispensing information from the two-dimensional code attached to the prescription. The dispensing information is stored in the data storage unit 86 of the weighing device 12. The dispensing information read from the two-dimensional code includes prescription information recorded on the prescription, such as the date of issuance of the prescription, patient ID, patient name, patient date of birth, drug information (drug code, drug name, dosage, dosage form information "oral medications such as tablets and powders, topical medications such as ointments"), and usage information (e.g., three times a day after each meal).

[0036] The communication means 82 communicates via a communication network such as a LAN or the Internet. The weighing device 12 of this embodiment can communicate with a medical billing computer and a terminal used by a physician via a communication means 82. Prescription information is input to the weighing device 12 from the medical billing computer and the terminal used by a physician, and stored in the weighing device 12. For example, prescription information is entered into the medical billing computer in advance, transmitted from the medical billing computer to the weighing device 12 via LAN (wired or wireless), received by the weighing device 12, and stored in the data storage unit 86 of the weighing device 12. In other words, in addition to directly reading prescription information from the prescription using a barcode reader or the like, prescription information is transmitted to the weighing device 12 via communication. Prescriptions that are particularly necessary when using the weighing device 12 are transmitted from an external source. Furthermore, the weighing device 12 can also communicate with the powder dispensing device via a communication means.

[0037] The specific configuration of the weighing device 12 will be described below. As shown in Figure 4, the main body of the weighing device 12 is integrally equipped with a balance unit (weighing means) 80, a display unit 26, and an information reading means 81. The information reading means 81 may be a separate component from the main body of the weighing device 12. Furthermore, the weighing device 12 incorporates a control means 83 and a data storage unit 86. In addition, the weighing device 12 incorporates a powder drug auditing means 87.

[0038] The control means 83 is a computer equipped with a CPU, ROM, RAM (EEPROM, etc.), etc., that comprehensively controls the weighing device 12. The CPU is a processor that performs various calculations according to various programs. ROM is a non-volatile memory in which programs executed by the CPU are pre-stored. RAM is a volatile or non-volatile memory used for temporary storage of data in the CPU's various program deployment and various arithmetic processing operations.

[0039] As shown in Figure 4, the balance unit 80 has a stainless steel balance platform 85 and is a weighing means for weighing objects placed on the balance platform 85. Specifically, the balance unit 80 is a balance unit that is also used in conventionally known electronic balances, equipped with a balancing circuit, force coil, current / voltage conversion circuit, A / D conversion circuit, etc. The weight of the drug weighed by the balance unit 80 is input as digital data to the control means 83. The balance platform 85 is located on the top surface of the main body of the weighing device 12 and protrudes upward from the main body. The balance platform 85 is rectangular, as shown in Figure 4. The legs 21 of the weighing container 15 mentioned above coincide with the balance platform 85.

[0040] An information reading device 81 is provided at the back of the balance platform 85. The information reading means 81 is provided adjacent to the balance table 85 and is used to read and write information to the information storage member 25 of the weighing container 15 when the weighing container 15 is placed on the balance table 85. In this embodiment, an RFID reader / writer is used as the information reading means 81, and information can be read from the information storage member 25 via wireless communication.

[0041] The information reading means (RFID reader / writer) 81 uses RFID wireless communication technology to record information on the information storage member 25 (RFID tag or RFID label) of the weighing container 15. The information reading means (RFID reader / writer) 81 can also read information from the information storage member 25 of the weighing container 15. The information reading means 81 only needs to correspond to the information storage member 25 provided in the weighing container 15, and may be a device that simply has the function of reading information, such as a barcode reader.

[0042] The display unit 26 is a touch panel and serves as both a display device and an input device (input means / operation unit). Furthermore, information can be transmitted and received with external devices via wired communication, wireless communication such as Wi-Fi, or both. In other words, the communication unit may be equipped with a wireless communication device. The display unit 26 includes a display unit such as a liquid crystal panel or organic EL panel that displays various screens and various information according to control instructions from the control means 83, and an input unit that detects the operation of the operation keys displayed on the display unit 26 and inputs a detection signal to the control means 83. In other words, the display unit 26 also serves as the display means and input means for the weighing device 12. Specifically, the weighed value measured by the balance unit 80 can be displayed on the display unit 26. Furthermore, as described above, the weighing device 12 also serves as the display means, input means, or operation unit for the entire powder weighing device 1. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 12, a list of stored prescription information (prescription list) can be displayed on the display unit 26. Furthermore, as will be described later, various displays can be shown on the display unit 26, and various inputs can be made by touching the display unit 26.

[0043] The data storage unit 86 stores various data, such as control programs executed by the control means 83, including drug weighing programs and drug master data. The data storage unit 86 also stores prescription information.

[0044] The drug weighing program is software that causes a computer, such as the control means 83, to execute the processing steps described later.

[0045] The drug master includes drug codes, drug names, JAN codes (or RSS or GS1), drug bottle codes, classifications (dosage forms: powders, tablets, liquids, topical medications, etc.), specific gravity, drug type (common drugs, poisons, narcotics, potent drugs, antipsychotics, therapeutic drugs, etc.), compatibility information, excipients, precautions, usual dosage (equivalent to appropriate dosage information), and information on drugs that should not be taken simultaneously. The identification number of the drug container 31 is also registered in the drug master.

[0046] The JAN code (or RSS or GS1) is information corresponding to the name of the drug contained in the medicine bottles supplied by the pharmaceutical manufacturer, and the JAN code (or RSS or GS1) is recorded (printed) on the medicine bottle as a barcode. The medicine bottle code is information corresponding to the name of the drug contained in the medicine bottles when the medicine from the medicine box supplied by the pharmaceutical manufacturer is divided into smaller medicine bottles, and the medicine bottle code is recorded on the medicine bottle as a barcode. The control means 83 can obtain the name of the drug contained in each barcode by referring to the drug master.

[0047] By the way, in this embodiment, we will explain using the case where the drug name is used as information to identify the drug, but we are not limited to this and may use a drug code or the like. The standard dose is the appropriate amount to be taken per day or once, as predetermined for each medication. The information regarding contraindications for simultaneous use is information regarding medications that should not be taken at the same time, as predetermined for each medication.

[0048] Furthermore, in the weighing device 12, the control means 83 uses a barcode reader 6 to read the contained drug information, including the name of the contained drug, from the JAN code, drug bottle code, GS1 code, etc., recorded (written) as a barcode on the drug bottle. The control means 83 that performs the reading process corresponds to the contained drug information reading means.

[0049] Furthermore, the method for reading prescription information and contained drug information from prescriptions or drug bottles is not limited to using barcodes; it may also utilize character recognition technology or image recognition technology.

[0050] It is also possible that the medicine bottle is equipped with an information recording medium such as an RFID tag or RFID label, and that this information recording medium contains information about the contained medicine, including the name of the medicine contained in the bottle.

[0051] Similarly, it is possible that prescriptions are equipped with information recording media such as RFID tags or RFID labels, and that these information recording media contain prescription information, including the names of the prescribed medications recorded on the prescription.

[0052] The weighing device 12 used in this embodiment works in cooperation with the drug container stand 10 and also functions as an input means for inputting the amount of powder to be dispensed (a predetermined amount) to the drug container stand 10. Furthermore, the weighing device 12 used in this embodiment is equipped with a comparison means for comparing the amount of powder discharged that is input with the actual weight of the powder placed in the weighing container 15. Furthermore, it includes a restriction function that limits the authority of the workers. In addition to displaying the weighed value, the display unit 26 also displays explanations of the work procedure and warnings. In this embodiment, the display unit 26 is a touch panel, and predetermined input is performed by touching the display unit 26. However, a keyboard, mouse, or other means separate from the display unit 26 may also be used as an input method. In addition, there may be an input means separate from the weighing device 12.

[0053] (Medication container stand 10) The drug container holder (drug container holder means) 10 is equipped with a drug discharge means. In this embodiment, the drug discharge means is configured by a vibration means that vibrates the drug container 31. As shown in Figure 8, the drug container stand 10 is mechanically divided into a container support section 33, a container weight measuring section 35, and a base section 38. It also has a control means (sometimes referred to as a local control means) 46 for controlling the drug container stand 10. The container support section 33 includes a support base 37, a vibrating member 40, and vibration means 41a and 41b. The vibration means 41a and 41b are piezoelectric elements and are plate-shaped. This vibrating member 40 and vibration means 41a and 41b also function as a vibrating device that vibrates the drug container 31 and are components that perform the drug discharge function.

[0054] As shown in Figures 7 and 8, the support base 37 and the vibrating member 40 are both "L" shaped members with a horizontal section and a vertical wall section. In other words, the support base 37 has a support-side horizontal portion 43 and a support-side vertical wall portion 45. The vibrating member 40 also functions as a container holder and has a vibrating horizontal section 50 and a vibrating vertical wall section 51 (vertical wall). The vibrating vertical wall section 51 is provided with an engaging section that engages with the drug container 31.

[0055] The support base 37 and the vibrating member 40 are connected by two excitation means 41a and 41b. Specifically, the device has a container holding section (vibrating member 40) for holding the drug container 31 and an upright support section (support-side vertical wall section 45). The container holding section (vibrating member 40) has a vertical member (vibrating-side vertical wall section 51), and vibration means 41a and 41b are provided between the support section and the vertical member. There is virtually no contact between the vibrating horizontal section 50 and the supporting horizontal section 43. Therefore, when current is applied to the excitation means 41a and 41b, the vibrating member 40 vibrates.

[0056] As shown in Figure 8, a container weight measuring unit 35 is located at the bottom of the container support unit 33. The container weight measuring unit 35 includes a weight measuring means (container weight measuring means) 52 and a vibration damping means 53. The weight measuring means 52 is a known load cell. The vibration damping means 53 has a vibration damping member 55. The container support section 33 (support base 37, vibrating member 40, and excitation means 41a, 41b) is connected to the weight measuring means 52. The base section 38 supports the upper members (support base 37, vibrating member 40, and excitation means 41a, 41b) via the vibration-damping member 55 of the container weight measuring section 35. The weight of the container support section 33 is detected by the weight measuring means (container weight measuring means) 52. The weight of the vibration isolation means 53 is applied to the base section 38 but not to the weight measuring means 52. Therefore, the weight of the container support section 33 (support base 37, vibrating member 40, vibration excitation means 41a, 41b) is detected by the weight measuring means 52.

[0057] In this embodiment, the drug container mounting stand 10 has vibration means 41a and 41b on one side of the drug container 31. That is, when the drug container 31 is mounted, the drug container 31 and the vibration means 41a and 41b are in parallel.

[0058] As shown in Figure 8, the drug container holder 10 is provided with an information reading means 56 that can read and write information to the information storage means 65 of the drug container 31.

[0059] (Medication container 31) The drug container 31 is a container filled with powdered medicine, and its shape is a rectangular parallelepiped with a roughly square side profile. The drug container 31 is surrounded by a front wall 60, a rear wall 61, left and right side walls 62, a top wall 63, and a bottom wall 70. The bottom wall 70 of the drug container 31 has an openable and closable powder discharge section 71 near the front wall 60. The rear wall 61 also has engagement sections on its vertical edges and at its lower part.

[0060] The drug container 31 also has a partition plate 68 (partition member) and a shutter structure 73 inside. The partition plate 68 (partition member) is formed by bending a strip-shaped plate and has an inclined portion 90, as shown in Figures 7 and 9.

[0061] The drug container 31 is filled with powdered medicine and fixed to the drug container stand 10 as shown in Figure 3. Specifically, the back wall 61 of the drug container 31 is in contact with the 51 (vertical wall) of the vibrating member 40 which is the container holding part, and a part of the bottom wall 70 of the drug container 31 is in contact with the vibrating side horizontal part 50, so that most of the drug container 31 is fixed to the drug container stand 10 in a cantilevered position. Furthermore, the engaging portions of the drug container 31 are each engaged with the vibrating members 40. Therefore, the drug container 31 is integrated with the vibrating members 40 and vibrates together with the vibrating members 40. As shown in Figure 9, a powder dispensing passage 91 is provided inside the drug container 31 near the bottom wall 70. When discharging powder from the drug container 31, the drug container 31 is fixed to the vibrating vertical wall 51 and the powder discharging section 71 is opened. Then, the drug container 31 is vibrated. At this time, as the amount of powder in the powder passage 91 decreases due to discharging, powder moves from the upper space into the powder passage 91. The powder in the powder passage 91 then moves toward the powder discharging section 71 and is discharged from the powder discharging section 71.

[0062] The drug container 31 is provided with an information storage means 65. The information storage means 65 stores information about the drug container 31 (information about the powdered medicine contained in the drug container 31). For example, it stores identification information that identifies the contained medicine (information such as the medicine name and various codes, identification number, etc.) and remaining amount information regarding the current remaining amount of the contained medicine. The information stored in the information storage means 65 is information that can be used in association with prescription data, etc., and by retrieving the information stored in the information storage means 65, it becomes possible to perform operations such as identifying the type of powdered medicine contained in the drug container 31. This information storage means 65 may be a memory such as an IC tag. Alternatively, it may be a code such as a one-dimensional code (barcode) or a two-dimensional code, and if a code is used, it may be attached to a label. In this embodiment, an RFID tag is used as the information storage means 65. Furthermore, a JAN code is attached to the drug container 31.

[0063] As described above, the drug container holder 10 has an information reading means 56 (see Figure 8) that can read and write information to the information storage means 65. In this embodiment, an RFID reader / writer is used as the information reading means 56, and it is possible to read information to the information storage means 65 via wireless communication. It is possible to read cassette information from the information storage means 65 and to write (rewrite) the remaining amount after dispensing powdered medicine from the drug container 31. The cassette information is information related to the drug container 31 as described above, and includes, for example, the name of the drug contained in the drug container 31 and the remaining amount. An identification number that identifies the drug container 31 is also included in the cassette information.

[0064] When filling the drug container 31 with powdered medicine, as shown in Figure 33, a funnel 36 is attached to the drug container 31, and the powdered medicine is poured into the drug container 31 through the funnel 36.

[0065] (Layout) As shown in Figure 1, the weighing device 12 is partially enclosed within the housing member 2, with the other part exposed to the outside. Specifically, the balance platform 85 of the weighing device 12 is inside the housing member 2, while the display unit 26 is exposed from the housing member 2. Therefore, the screen of the display unit 26 can be viewed even when the cover 11 is closed. The layout inside the housing member 2 is as shown in Figures 3 and 4, with the drug container stand 10 occupying half of the area and the weighing device 12 located in the remaining half. Specifically, the drug container stand 10 is located in the left half of the housing member 2, and the weighing device 12 is located in the right half. As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the container support section 33 of the drug container mounting stand 10 is installed at a higher position than the weighing device 12. As shown in Figure 3, the drug container 31 is attached to the container support section 33, and the weighing container 15 is placed on the weighing device 12. However, the lowest part of the drug container 31 is higher than the weighing container 15. The drug container 31 protrudes from the container support section 33, and the powder dispensing section 71 is located directly above the center of the weighing container 15.

[0066] The electronic paper rewriting device 8 is attached to a partition wall 47 that separates the area occupied by the drug container stand 10 from the area where the weighing device 12 is located. In other words, the rewriting device 8 is fixed in a vertical position to the left side of the balance platform 85 of the weighing device 12. The position of the rewriting device 8 is not limited to the partition wall 47. Since the rewriting device 8 needs to be in a position and orientation that faces the display member 22 of the weighing container 15, it may be provided on other sides of the balance platform 85. Alternatively, the rewriting device 8 can be attached to a linear movement mechanism and made retractable. For example, the rewriting device 8 may be housed in a position where it does not get in the way under normal circumstances, and may appear in front of the display member 22 when reading or writing is performed. The camera 18 is mounted inside the cover 11. However, the position of the camera 18 is not limited to inside the cover 11.

[0067] The weighing container 15 is mounted on the balance platform 85 of the weighing device 12 as shown in Figure 2. The orientation of the weighing container 15 is such that the display member 22 of the weighing container 15 faces the electronic paper rewriting device 8, and the information storage member 25 of the weighing container 15 faces the information reading means 81 of the weighing device 12.

[0068] (Sending and receiving signals) The overall configuration of the powder dispensing device 1 is as shown in the block diagram in Figure 6, with a weighing device 12 at the center, and a barcode reader 6, a printer 7, and a drug container stand 10 connected to the weighing device 12. In the powder dispensing device 1 of this embodiment, the display unit 26 of the weighing device 12 functions as both the overall input means and the display means. The target amount is input to the display unit 26 of the weighing device 12, and information regarding the target amount is sent to the local control means 46 of the drug container stand 10. The drug container stand 10 is controlled by the local control means 46, which vibrates the vibrating member 40 to discharge powder from the drug container 31. The local control means 46 monitors the weight change of the drug container 31 during this time, and when the weight change of the drug container 31 reaches the target amount, it stops vibrating the vibrating member 40 and stops discharging the powder. Information that the discharging of the powder has stopped is then sent from the local control means 46 to the weighing device 12.

[0069] In addition, the following signals are sent from the drug container stand 10 to the weighing device 12. (1) A signal indicating whether or not the drug container 31 is mounted on the drug container stand 10. (2) Information read from the information storage means (RFID tag) 65 of the drug container 31.

[0070] The powder dispensing device 1 of this embodiment can be operated in manual mode (second mode) and automatic mode (first mode). In this manual mode, only the functions of the weighing device 12 are used, and the drug container stand 10 is not used. The automatic mode is an operating mode that uses the weighing device 12 and the drug container stand 10.

[0071] (Manual mode) The operating procedure in manual mode (second mode) is generally as follows: Manual mode is the operating mode used when a pharmacist takes powdered medicine from a medicine bottle using a spatula or similar tool and measures it out.

[0072] As part of the preparation work, pharmacists and other personnel use a barcode reader 6 to read information such as the name of the drug contained in the drug bottle from one-dimensional barcodes such as JAN codes, RSS, and GS1 DataBar, and two-dimensional codes such as QR codes (registered trademarks) attached to the drug bottle. When a pharmacist or other medical professional weighs a drug using the weighing device 12, they place the weighing container 15 (or another container) on the balance platform 85, and then put the powdered drug into the weighing container 15. The weighing container 15 is equipped with an RFID tag as an information storage element 25 on which various types of information can be read and written. The information storage member 25 is positioned so that data can be read and written by the information reading means 81 when the weighing container 15 is placed on the balance table 85. Furthermore, the balance unit 80 uses the weight of the drug as the value obtained by subtracting the weight of the weighing container 15, which is set in advance.

[0073] Switching to manual mode (the second mode) is, in principle, done by operating the "Manual" column 103 in Figure 11, which will be described later. As a modified or additional feature, the system may be configured to automatically switch from automatic mode to manual mode when the code attached to the medicine bottle is read by the barcode reader 6. This configuration prevents errors caused by forgetting to switch modes.

[0074] (Automatic mode) The aforementioned manual mode uses the weighing device 12 of the powder dispensing device 1 of this embodiment as an electronic balance, and involves manually placing the powder onto the weighing pan on the balance platform 85 as part of normal powder dispensing auditing work, without using the drug container 31. This operation can only be performed by qualified personnel. In contrast, the automatic mode (first mode) is a function that automatically performs powder weighing and auditing in conjunction with the system after attaching the drug container 31. With the automatic mode, even workers without pharmacist qualifications can dispense powder. In automatic mode, the only operation required is to attach the drug container 31 with the target identification number to the powder weighing device 1, which has the advantage of allowing dispensing of powder even without knowledge of pharmaceuticals. Next, we will explain the functions of the automatic mode of the powder dispensing device 1 step by step. The operations performed by the operator when operating in automatic mode are generally as follows: (1) Log in (2) Selecting the operating mode (3) Prescription selection (3) Selection of drug containers (4) Installation of drug containers (5) Input of emissions (determined amount) (6) Setting up the weighing container (tare) (7) Close the cover (dispensing begins) (8) Emission amount confirmation

[0075] (1) Log in By activating the display device and performing the prescribed operation, a display that categorizes users will appear, as shown in Figure 10. As shown in Figure 10, the user classification displays include "Administrator," "General," "Trainee," "Supporter," "Technician," and "Student." The classifications shown in the diagram are merely examples and are not limiting. This classification distinguishes between pharmacists and non-pharmacists. Pharmacists belong to one of the following categories: "Administrator," "General," "Trainee," or "Support." Non-pharmacists who are authorized to operate the powder dispensing device 1 belong to one of the following categories: "Support," "Technician," or "Student."

[0076] The user touches the display corresponding to their category. As a result, a list of people in that category is displayed. When the worker touches their own name, a screen for entering a PIN and other information appears, and logging in is completed by entering the required PIN and other information. For the sake of explanation, we will proceed assuming that a pharmacist has logged in.

[0077] (2) Selecting the operating mode Once login is complete, you will be redirected to a dispensing screen like the one shown in Figure 11. In the upper right-hand area of ​​the dispensing screen, there is a section 100 for recording bibliographic information to identify the prescription. This section displays the patient's name, prescription number, number of days, duration, age, and weight. Below that is a prescription display area 101 where the specific prescription is displayed. The prescription display section 101 includes the title, form, drug name, daily dose (target dose), and total dose (target dose), with the respective information displayed below.

[0078] Below the prescription display area 101 is a display area 102 that prompts the operator to perform an action. In the example in Figure 11, the message "Please set the cassette in the feeder" is displayed. Here, "feeder" refers to the drug container stand 10, and "cassette" refers to the drug container 31. Therefore, "Please set the cassette on the feeder" is a message prompting the user to place the drug container 31 on the drug container stand 10.

[0079] . Below that area are fields for Input, Tray Number / Paper Packaging Selection, Print, Manual, Weighing, Do, Split, and Cancel. Here, the "Manual" column 103 is a switch for selecting manual mode (the second mode) as the operating mode, and the "Manual" display indicates that manual mode is selected as the operating mode. Touching the relevant item ("Manual") switches the operating mode and changes the display to "Auto" as shown in Figure 11(b). The "Auto" display indicates that automatic mode is selected as the operating mode.

[0080] For the sake of explanation, the procedure is described assuming that a pharmacist has logged in. However, if a non-pharmacist logs in, manual mode operation will not be possible, and the dispensing screen after logging in will display "Auto" as shown in (b). Furthermore, touching the "Auto" display will not change it to "Manual".

[0081] (3) Prescription selection Next, the worker selects the prescription. There are three methods for selecting prescriptions: entering prescription numbers, selecting from a prescription list, and reading prescription forms. Prescription information is imported after the prescription selection process is completed.

[0082] (Prescription number input method) The direct input method involves directly entering the prescription number in the prescription number field of the bibliographic information section.

[0083] (Selection method) As described above, the display unit 26 can display a prescription list like the one shown in Figure 12. The operator can select the desired prescription from the prescription list and touch the corresponding column to make the selection. Furthermore, in order to process the selected prescription, the drug container 31 containing the powdered medicine to be used must be registered in the powder dispensing device 1 or an external computer. Specifically, the drug container 31 to be used must be registered in the drug master.

[0084] Note that while Figure 12 shows a "Prescription Date," you may also display the "Start Date of Medication" instead. Of course, you could also add more columns to display both the "Prescription Date" and the "Start Date of Medication." By displaying the "start date of medication," the order in which medications are dispensed can be adjusted as needed, taking into account the patient's situation, such as prioritizing patients who need to start taking the medication urgently. In recent years, in addition to traditional paper prescriptions, there are also electronic prescriptions and other non-paper forms, and the amount of information included on prescriptions is likely to increase in the future. In the various forms of prescription reception expected in the future, the start date of medication may be recorded, and by displaying the start date of medication, the order in which medications are dispensed can be appropriately adjusted, taking into account the patient's situation.

[0085] If the drug container 31 containing the powdered medicine to be used is unregistered, a notice will be made to inform the user. For example, the entire column containing the prescription may be colored red or some other color to draw attention to it. Alternatively, specific items may be colored, or specific signs or text may be displayed. By looking at these signs, workers can recognize that the drug container 31 is unregistered and can register the drug container 31 before placing it on the drug container stand 10. As a result, interruptions to the work can be prevented.

[0086] Furthermore, if the amount of powder remaining in the medication container 31 is less than the amount required for the prescription, a display will be made to inform the user of this fact. For example, the entire column containing the prescription may be colored red or some other color to draw attention to it. Alternatively, specific items may be colored, or specific symbols or text may appear. By looking at these indicators, workers can recognize that there is insufficient powder in the drug container 31 and replenish the powder in the drug container 31 before placing it on the drug container stand 10. As a result, interruptions to the work can be prevented. Furthermore, if the remaining amount of powder in the drug container 31 is less than the amount required for the prescription, and there is another drug container 31 referred to as a parent-child cassette for the drug container 31 filled with powder, the number of that drug container 31 can be displayed. In other words, the powder dispensing device 1 of this embodiment can dispense drugs using a group of drug containers 31 called a parent-child cassette. A parent-child cassette is a group of drug containers 31 containing drugs that are consumed in large quantities, and each parent-child cassette consists of drug containers 31 filled with the same drug.

[0087] If a shortage of medication is anticipated, performing a predetermined operation will display a list of medication containers 31 filled with the same medication. This function can also be turned off in the settings. Here, there are two ways to arrange and display the list: prioritizing inventory quantity or prioritizing expiration date. If you select the option to prioritize inventory quantity, the dispensing screen will search for the drug container numbers of the corresponding drug containers 31, sorted by inventory quantity and cassette number, and then display the numbers of the drug containers 31. If you select to prioritize expiration date, the dispensing screen will search for the drug container numbers of the relevant drug container 31 in descending order of expiration date and cassette number, and then display the numbers of drug container 31.

[0088] (Prescription reading method) Prescription selection can be performed by reading the prescription recorded on the prescription using the barcode reader 6. Regardless of the method used, once a prescription is selected, the prescription details will be displayed in the prescription display area, as shown in Figure 13.

[0089] (3) Selection of drug containers Before or after the above-mentioned work, or concurrently with the above-mentioned work, the worker takes out a drug container 31 filled with the desired drug from a shelf or the like.

[0090] (4) Installation of drug containers Then, the drug container 31 filled with the desired drug is placed on the drug container stand 10.

[0091] As described above, an information storage means (RFID tag) 65 is attached to the drug container 31. Also as described above, the drug container stand 10 is provided with an information reading means 56 that can read and write information to the information storage means 65. The drug container 31 is placed on the drug container stand 10, and the information reading means 56 of the drug container stand 10 detects the information storage means 65 of the drug container 31, thereby confirming that the drug container 31 has been placed on the drug container stand 10. Whether or not the drug container 31 has been placed on the drug container stand 10 is determined, for example, by whether or not the weight measuring means 52 of the container weight measuring unit 35 detects a predetermined weight. If the drug container 31 is not properly installed, or if the installed drug container 31 is different from the one required to process the prescription, a message to that effect will be displayed on the display screen.

[0092] If the drug container 31 is not properly installed, the indicator prompting the installation of the drug container 31 will not disappear even if the drug container 31 is visually placed on the drug container stand 10. This can cause confusion among workers. Therefore, it is desirable to change the indicator depending on the situation when the drug container 31 is not properly installed. In other words, it is desirable to display an indicator that suggests the cause. Insufficient placement of the drug container 31 may occur if the weight measuring means 52 of the container weight measuring unit 35 fails to detect a predetermined weight, or if the information reading means 56 of the drug container mounting stand 10 fails to detect the information storage means 65 of the drug container 31. Therefore, if the former is the cause, it is recommended to display a message such as "Medication container present, (Load not detected)". If the latter is the cause, it is recommended to display a message such as "Medication container present, (RFID not detected)".

[0093] (5) Input of emissions (determined amount) When the required drug container 31 is correctly mounted on the drug container stand 10, the display unit 26 transitions to the discharge input screen as shown in Figure 14(a). The discharge input screen displays the name of the drug contained in the drug container 31 and the reference normal dosage. The drug names and reference prescriptions are based on information registered in the drug master database. In the example shown in Figure 14, the drug name is labeled "Drug A," and the reference dosage is labeled "Adults" and "Daily daily dose (total): 1.5g~5.0g." If a drug is not registered in the pharmaceutical master database, a message indicating that it is unregistered will be displayed.

[0094] The daily amount and target total amount values ​​on the emissions input screen are automatically entered. In other words, during the formulation selection process in step (3), a formulation is identified by one of the methods, and that information is imported. The values ​​in the daily amount and target total amount fields on the emissions input screen are automatically displayed based on the imported formulation information. The worker checks the emissions input screen, and if there are no problems, touches the "Confirm" button at the bottom. Touching "Confirm" finalizes and enters the emissions.

[0095] (6) Setting up the weighing container (tare) Once the discharge amount (determined amount) is determined, the system switches to automatic tare mode through a predetermined operation. In this embodiment, the tare function is also used to check for foreign objects. In automatic tare mode, the weighing container 15 is tared. In this embodiment, it is also checked whether or not any foreign matter remains in the weighing container 15. The tare process differs depending on whether or not the weighing device 12 is installed on the balance table 85. In this embodiment, it is automatically checked whether the weighing container 15 is placed on the balance platform 85 of the weighing device 12. As described above, an information storage member 25 is attached to the weighing container 15, and an information reading means 81 is provided in the weighing device 12. The weighing container 15 is placed on the balance platform 85, and the information reading means 81 of the weighing device 12 detects the information storage member 25 of the weighing container 15, thereby confirming that the weighing container 15 is placed on the balance platform 85.

[0096] (Operation when the weighing container 15 is already placed on the balance table 85) If the weighing container 15 is already placed on the balance table 85, the weight of the already placed weighing container 15 will be confirmed. If the weighing container 15 is already placed on the balance platform 85, the message "The balance will be zeroed. Move the weighing pan from the balance and press the OK button." will appear as shown in Figure 15(a). Here, "weighing pan" refers to the weighing container 15, and "balance" refers to the balance platform 85. Therefore, "Move the weighing pan from the balance and press the OK button." is a message prompting the user to remove the weighing container 15 from the balance platform 85 and press the OK button.

[0097] When the weighing container 15 is removed from the balance platform 85 according to the display and the OK button is pressed, the weighing value of the weighing device 12 is reset to 0, and a display such as 0.00 appears on the display screen as shown in Figure 16(a). Next, as shown in Figure 15(b), a message will appear stating, "Tare function will be applied. Please place the weighing pan on the balance. Press the OK button when finished." Following these instructions, when the weighing container 15 is placed on the balance platform 85 and the OK button is pressed, the weighing device 12 measures the weight of the weighing container 15 placed on the balance platform 85, and the value is displayed on the display screen as shown in Figure 16(b).

[0098] In this embodiment, the weight of the weighing container 15 is stored in the weighing device 12. The weight of the weighing container 15 includes the weight of the display member (electronic paper) 22. The weighing device 12 then automatically compares the stored weight of the weighing container 15 with the actual weight of the weighing container 15 to perform foreign object detection. If the difference between the two exceeds the error range for the weight of weighing container 15, then some kind of abnormality is suspected. In this embodiment, a predetermined notification is given when the weight of weighing container 15 placed on the balance platform 85 is significantly greater than the stored weight of weighing container 15. A predetermined value is set as the error range. In this embodiment, the predetermined value is stored in the data storage unit 86. Also, since the empty weight of the weighing container 15 is stored in the data storage unit 86, if a value different from the stored weight of the weighing container 15 is weighed when the weighing container 15 is placed on the balance table 85, it is determined that there is a foreign object on it, and a warning is issued to prompt the operator to check. When this warning is issued, the tare operation is not performed. In other words, as shown in Figure 15(c), the display screen will show the message, "Please check that the empty weighing pan is correctly set on the balance." It is desirable that some form of notification be given if the weight of the weighing container 15 placed on the balance platform 85 is significantly smaller than the stored weight of the weighing container 15, that is, if it is smaller than the set tolerance range.

[0099] The worker checks the contents of the weighing container 15 according to the instructions on the display screen. If any foreign matter remains, it is discarded, and the container is placed back on the balance table 85. In this case, since the weighing container 15 is often reused, if the weight of the weighing container 15 exceeds the margin of error, it often means that there is still powder from another prescription that was administered previously. If powder from the current prescription is added while powder remains in the container, contamination will occur. The powder weighing device 1 of this embodiment can pre-store the weight of an empty weighing container 15 and compare it with the weight of the weighing container 15 actually placed on the weighing device 12 to check for the presence of foreign matter and prevent contamination.

[0100] Next, as shown in Figure 15(b), the message "Tare will be performed. Please set the weighing pan on the balance. Press the OK button when finished." appears again. When the weighing container 15 is placed on the balance platform 85 and the OK button is pressed, the weighing device 12 measures the weight of the weighing container 15 placed on the balance platform 85, and then compares the stored weight of the weighing container 15 with the actual weight of the weighing container 15. If the difference between the two values ​​is within the margin of error for the weight of the weighing container 15, the weighing value of the weighing device 12 will be reset to 0, and a display such as 0.00 will appear on the display screen as shown in Figure 16(a). The weighing container 15 is tared using the above process.

[0101] (Operation when the weighing container 15 is not placed on the balance table 85) If, when the aforementioned discharge amount is determined and entered, the weighing container 15 is not already installed on the balance table 85, the step of removing the weighing container 15 as described above is omitted. In other words, as shown in Figure 15(b), a message appears stating, "Tare will be performed. Please set the weighing pan on the balance. Press the OK button when finished." Following this display, when the weighing container 15 is placed on the balance platform 85 and the OK button is pressed, the weighing device 12 measures the weight of the weighing container 15 placed on the balance platform 85 and compares the weight of the weighing container 15 that has been automatically stored with the actual weight of the weighing container 15.

[0102] The following steps are the same as when the weighing container 15 is already placed on the balance table 85. In the actual program, after the aforementioned discharge amount is determined and entered, the information reading means 81 of the weighing device 12 is monitored for a certain period of time. If the information storage member 25 of the weighing container 15 is not detected during this time, it is determined that the weighing container 15 is no longer installed on the balance platform 85, and the step of removing the weighing container 15 is omitted. As shown in Figure 16(a), a display such as 0.00 appears on the display screen.

[0103] (7) Close the cover (dispensing begins) In either case, if the difference between the stored weight of weighing container 15 and the actual weight of weighing container 15 is within the acceptable error range, the display screen will change and a confirmation screen will appear as shown in Figure 15(d). The confirmation screen will display the message, "Weighing preparation is complete. Weighing will begin when you close the cover." In this embodiment, the drug container holder 10 is driven, and powdered drug is discharged from the drug container 31, with the cover 11 being closed as one of the conditions. When the cover 11 is closed according to the instructions, the cover 11 automatically locks and enters a locked state. Then the drug container stand 10 is driven, and the powdered drug is discharged from the drug container 31. Specifically, the shutter member 75 of the drug container 31 is opened, and the powder dispensing section 71 of the drug container 31 is opened. Also, the vibration means 41a and 41b of the drug container mounting base 10 are energized, causing the vibrating member 40 to vibrate, and the drug container 31 to vibrate. As a result, the powder in the drug container 31 moves towards the powder discharge section 71, is discharged from the powder discharge section 71, and falls into the weighing container 15. Simultaneously, the display screen changes, and a screen appears showing the weighed value while the powder is being dispensed from the drug container 31, as shown in Figure 17(a). The weighed value shown in Figure 17(a) is the value measured by the balance unit 80. The display on the screen changes according to the amount of powder that has fallen into the weighing container 15, as shown in Figure 17(b).

[0104] Furthermore, prior to the start of vibration, the weight of the drug container 31 is indirectly measured by the drug container support stand 10. As described above, the drug container stand 10 has a container weight measuring unit 35, and the weight of the container support unit 33 is detected by a weight measuring means (container weight measuring means) 52. The weight of the drug container 31 is obtained by subtracting a certain value from the weight measured by the container weight measuring unit 35, more specifically, by subtracting the weight of the members above the weight measuring means 52 of the drug container stand 10.

[0105] The weight of the drug container 31 immediately after installation is stored in the local control means 46 as the original weight G. Furthermore, the weight of the drug container 31 is constantly monitored by the local control means 46. That is, the current weight of the drug container 31 is monitored as the current weight g. Then, when the vibrating member 40 starts to vibrate, the drug container 31 vibrates at the same frequency as the vibrating member 40, and the powdered drug contained in the storage space 32 is discharged from the powdered drug discharge section 71. The fact that the powder is being dispensed is confirmed by a decrease in the weight of the drug container 31. In other words, in this embodiment, even while the powder is being dispensed, the current weight (current weight g) of the drug container 31 is continuously monitored by the local control means 46. The local control means 46 then compares the original weight G of the drug container 31 with the current weight g and constantly calculates the amount of powder to be dispensed H (H=Gg). Then, when the total amount of powdered medicine discharged H reaches the desired weight, the vibration of the vibrating member 40 is stopped. That is, when the current weight g matches the value obtained by subtracting the planned discharge amount (target amount based on the prescription) from the original weight G, the discharge of the powdered medicine is stopped.

[0106] Regarding the measurement of the weight of the drug container 31, it should be noted that the measurement of the weight of the drug container 31 can be direct or indirect. That is, the weight of only the drug container 31 may be measured directly, or the weight including equipment such as the vibrating member 40 may be measured. Therefore, the above operation only needs to determine the amount of drug to be discharged based on the measurement value before the drug is discharged and the current measurement value from the time of discharge until the discharge is stopped.

[0107] It is recommended to employ a control system in which the vibration intensity of the vibrating member 40 changes depending on the dispensing status of the powdered drug. Specifically, when the target discharge amount (determined amount) is above a certain level, the vibrating member 40 is vibrated with a strong vibration intensity until the final stage of dispensing, and then the vibration intensity is weakened towards the end. For example, if the target discharge amount is 15 grams or more, the vibrating member 40 is vibrated at maximum intensity until the last 5 grams are discharged, allowing a larger amount of powder to be discharged in a shorter time. The remaining 5 grams are discharged with reduced vibration intensity to prevent exceeding the discharge limit. When changing the vibration intensity, the vibration of the vibrating member 40 may be temporarily stopped. According to this embodiment, the dispensing of the powder can be completed in a shorter time, and the amount of powder dispensed is prevented from exceeding the target dispensing amount.

[0108] Furthermore, when changing the vibration intensity, the vibration of the vibrating member 40 may be temporarily stopped. For example, the vibration may be stopped for 0.5 seconds. Furthermore, when restarting the vibration, the vibration intensity may be determined according to the type of powder, and the vibration intensity may also be changed according to the flow rate of the powder. According to this embodiment, the discharge period during periods of low vibration can be eliminated, thereby shortening the time required for discharge. Furthermore, by stopping vibration for a certain period of time, sudden changes in discharge volume can be prevented.

[0109] Generally, when the amount of powdered medicine filled in the medicine container 31 is large, the medicine container 31 tends to vibrate less, and the amount of powdered medicine dispensed per unit of time tends to decrease. As a countermeasure, if the target emissions are above a certain level, a configuration can be adopted in which the vibrating member 40 is vibrated with a strong vibration intensity at the beginning of the emission, and the vibration intensity is reduced if the emissions per unit time are excessive. For example, if the target discharge amount is 10 grams or more, the drug container 31 is first vibrated at maximum intensity, and the discharge amount per hour is checked at regular intervals. If, for example, the discharge amount of powder per regular time period exceeds 7000 mg / s, the vibration intensity is reduced every 0.5 seconds. According to this embodiment, it is possible to reduce the variation in emissions per unit of time.

[0110] (8) Emission amount confirmation The powdered medicine discharged from the drug container 31 falls into the weighing container 15 below and accumulates in the weighing container 15. The weighing container 15 is placed on the balance platform 85 (weighing container placement section), and since tare weight has been applied, the display unit of the weighing device 12 displays the weight of the powdered medicine accumulated in the weighing container 15 (hereinafter referred to as the actual discharge amount). The operator can visually confirm the weight of the powdered medicine (actual discharge amount) shown on the display unit and verify whether it has accumulated to the target amount (the entered predetermined amount, hereinafter referred to as the target discharge amount) without any excess or deficiency.

[0111] Furthermore, the powder dispensing device 1 of this embodiment has a comparison means for comparing the target discharge amount with the actual discharge amount, and if there is an excess or deficiency, a predetermined display is shown. For the sake of explanation, we assume that a pharmacist is logged in. If a pharmacist is logged in and the actual amount dispensed is greater than the target amount, a confirmation screen like the one in Figure 18(a) will appear. This confirmation screen will display the message: "The measured value exceeds the target value. If you wish to open the cover and manually adjust the prescribed amount, press OK to make the adjustment. If you wish to try again with automatic weighing, press Cancel." In this case, you will need to either manually adjust the dosage according to the instructions, or repeat the process using the automated weighing system. When manually adjusting the prescribed amount, observe the weighing value displayed on the screen and use a spatula or similar tool to take powder from the weighing container 15 until it matches the target amount. If you want to redo the process using automatic weighing, press Cancel and repeat the steps described above.

[0112] On the other hand, if a non-pharmacist logs in, they are not permitted by regulations to manually increase or decrease the amount of powdered medication. Therefore, if a non-pharmacist is logged in, a confirmation screen like the one in Figure 18(b) will appear. This confirmation screen will display the message: "The measured value exceeds the target value. To open the cover and manually correct the prescription amount, press OK and log in with a user who has administrator privileges. To try again with automatic weighing, press Cancel." In this case, the pharmacist would need to log in as instructed and either manually correct the prescription amount or repeat the process using the automated weighing system.

[0113] Conversely, if the actual emissions are less than the target emissions, calculate the deficit, return to (5) Emission Input as described above, input the target total amount, and emit the deficit.

[0114] Once the target emissions are reached, a confirmation screen like the one shown in Figure 18(c) will appear. This confirmation screen will display the message, "Weighing is complete. Open the cover and remove the cassette. Do you want to enter a comment?" After this, the lock on cover 11 will be released, and cover 11 will be able to be opened. Thus, in this embodiment, the cover 11 can be opened as one of the conditions for the completion of the discharge of the powder from the drug container 31. In this case, follow the instructions and open the cover 11 to remove the drug container 31. Also remove the weighing container 15. Press "Yes" to enter a comment. When you press "Yes," the display screen changes, and a comment display dialog screen like the one in Figure 19 appears. Automatic weighing comments 1 to 5 appear on this screen. Comments 1 to 5 are pre-set standard phrases. You can also enter your own comments.

[0115] Furthermore, while the powder is being dispensed from the drug container 31, bibliographic information is written to the display element (electronic paper) 22 of the weighing container 15. The displayed content is not limited, but for example, the prescription number, drug name, and drug quantity may be displayed. Comments may also be displayed. Similarly, after the powder is dispensed from the drug container 31, bibliographic information is written to the information storage member 25 of the weighing container 15. Additionally, the display unit 26 is photographed by the camera 18, and the actual emission values ​​are captured and stored by the camera 18.

[0116] Furthermore, the information storage means 65 of the drug container 31 is rewritten by the information reading means 56 provided on the drug container stand 10, and the remaining amount of powdered medicine is updated. That is, the amount dispensed is subtracted and the resulting value is stored as the new remaining amount of powdered medicine. The weighing results are also stored in a memory device. Displaying or storing the weighing results may be performed on the condition that the cover 11 is opened, or on the condition that the weighing container 15 is removed. The worker removes and moves the weighing container 15, puts it into the powder dispensing device, and dispenses the powder.

[0117] In a system configuration that allows for mutual communication between the powder dispensing device and the weighing device, prescription information, etc., is transmitted from the powder weighing device 1 to the powder dispensing device, and the information reading device of the powder dispensing device reads the necessary information from the information storage member 25 of the weighing container 15.

[0118] Furthermore, in the powder dispensing device 1 of this embodiment, it is also possible to specify in advance which powder dispensing device should be used for dispensing. Moreover, it is also possible to specify which powder dispensing device should be into which the powder should be dispensed. For example, a dispensing machine information input screen, as shown in Figure 20(a), is displayed to identify the powder dispensing machine to be used for dispensing. As a result, prescription information and other data are transmitted to the identified powder dispensing machine. Furthermore, it is possible to display a packaging machine information input screen, as shown in Figure 20(b), and specify the hopper to be used for input. As a result, when the weighing container 15 is transported to the designated hopper of the designated powder dispensing device, the identification information reading device on the powder dispensing device can read the information written on the RFID tag of the weighing container 15 and verify it, thereby preventing the wrong medication from being put into the weighing container 15. For example, if the wrong weighing container 15 is brought close to the powder dispensing device, the powder dispensing device may notify that it is the wrong weighing container 15 using its warning function, or it may display a warning on the display member 22 of the weighing container 15.

[0119] (Manual entry of prescriptions) In the automatic mode described above, prescription selection was performed to identify the prescription. With this method, prescription information is automatically imported, and the daily amount value and the target total amount value on the emissions input screen are automatically displayed. In other words, during the formulation selection process in step (3), a formulation is identified by one of the methods, and that information is imported. The daily amount and target total amount values ​​on the emissions input screen are automatically displayed based on the imported formulation information. In contrast, the powder dispensing device 1 of this embodiment also allows for manual input of prescriptions. In this case, prescription information such as usage instructions is manually entered on the dispensing screen. When prescription information is manually entered, the daily amount and target total amount are also manually entered on the dispensing input screen. Other operations and actions are the same as when the prescription selection process described above is performed to identify the prescription. Specifically, when the system detects that a drug container 31 is mounted on the drug container stand 10, it transitions to a target quantity input screen where the target quantity is entered. Furthermore, drug information is obtained from the identification code of the drug container 31, and it is confirmed that the drug information exists in the drug master. If it does not exist in the drug master, dispensing is performed as an unregistered drug.

[0120] (abnormal termination) If the dispensing of powdered medicine is not performed properly due to various circumstances, a message to that effect will be displayed on the screen. Possible causes of abnormal termination include clogging of the drug container 31, weighing failure, an increase in the weighed value even though no liquid was dispensed, or a sudden large amount of drug being dispensed. If the payout process terminates abnormally, a message will be displayed prompting you to restart the operation from the beginning.

[0121] (Drug shortage) If the drug container 31 becomes empty due to insufficient drug while dispensing the powder, an information screen indicating a shortage will appear, as shown in Figure 21. When this message appears, the dispensing operation is interrupted by a predetermined procedure. When the dispensing operation is interrupted, the amount dispensed up to that point is temporarily stored in memory. If there is another drug container 31, referred to as a parent-child cassette, that is filled with the same powdered medicine, the drug container 31 that was placed on top should be replaced. Furthermore, the identification number of the drug container 31 to be replaced in the parent-child cassette may be displayed on the display screen. It is also recommended that the system be configured to display a message indicating that the wrong drug container 31 has been installed. Alternatively, the drug container 31 is removed from the drug container stand 10, filled with powdered medicine, and then the drug container 31 is reattached to the drug container stand 10. Then, when the designated restart switch is operated, the remaining amount obtained by subtracting the temporarily stored amount of drug from the target discharge amount is discharged from the drug container 31.

[0122] (Medication filling) The powder weighing device 1 of this embodiment can be used to assist in the process of filling the drug container 31 with powder. In this embodiment, the weighing device 12 and the drug container mounting stand 10 can work together to assist in the process of filling powdered medicine. Alternatively, the weighing device 12 can be used alone to assist in the process of filling powdered medicine containers 31. In the powder dispensing device 1 of this embodiment, there are two operating modes to assist in the process of filling the drug container 31 with powder: an automatic drug filling mode and a manual filling mode. The automatic drug filling mode is an operating mode used to assist in the task of filling powdered drugs in cooperation with the drug container mounting stand 10, while the manual filling mode is an operating mode used to assist in the task of filling powdered drugs into drug containers 31 using the weighing device 12 alone. Even when filling the drug container 31 with medication, there are restrictions on the user's authority, and if a non-pharmacist logs in, they cannot switch to manual filling mode. The following explains it.

[0123] (Filling assistance performed using the weighing device 12 and the drug container support stand 10) When performing filling assistance using the weighing device 12 and the drug container placement stand 10, the operating mode is switched to automatic drug filling mode. As a result, the confirmation screen shown in Figure 22(a) is displayed, prompting the user to place the drug container 31 on the drug container stand 10. Specifically, the confirmation screen displays the message: "No cassette is set. Please set the cassette you wish to fill and select Yes. Select No if you wish to cancel the cassette filling." The worker places the drug container 31 on the drug container stand 10 according to the instructions and selects "yes". As a result, the information reading means 56 of the drug container holder 10 acquires information about the drug container 31 from the information storage means (RFID tag) 65 of the drug container 31, and reads the identification number of the drug container 31, the name of the drug that was filled in it, the amount of drug remaining in the drug container 31, etc. Then the filling screen shown in Figure 22(b) is displayed. As shown in Figure 22(b), the necessary information is automatically displayed on the filling screen. Specifically, the identification number of the drug container 31 is displayed in the cassette field. The lot number and expiration date of the drug that was filled are automatically displayed in the lot number field and expiration date field. Furthermore, the weight of the drug container 31 is measured by the container weight measuring unit 35 of the drug container mounting stand 10 and temporarily stored as the weight before filling.

[0124] The operator uses the barcode reader 6 to read the barcode of the medicine bottle to be filled and identify the bottle. The barcode of the medicine bottle reads the name of the medicine inside and its expiration date. If the medicine inside the medicine bottle is the same as the medicine to be filled into the medicine container 31, the information screen shown in Figure 22(c) appears, prompting the operator to fill the medicine container 31 with the powdered medicine. Specifically, the message "Please fill the cassette with medicine. After filling, please press the OK button." is displayed. The worker removes the drug container 31 from the drug container stand 10 and, following the instructions, pours the powdered medicine from the bottle into the drug container 31. Then, reattaching the filled drug container 31 to the drug container stand 10, the worker presses the OK button according to the instructions.

[0125] As a result, the system transitions to a filling screen as shown in Figure 23(a), indicating that weighing is in progress. During this time, the weight of the drug container 31 is measured by the container weight measuring unit 35 of the drug container stand 10 and temporarily stored as the weight after filling. The difference between the weight before filling and the weight after filling is the amount of drug that has been newly filled. The control means 83 of the weighing device 12 adds the newly filled amount of drug to the amount of drug remaining in the drug container 31 before filling, and updates the amount of drug in the drug container 31. The updated drug quantity is stored in the powder dispensing device 1, and the remaining drug quantity in the information storage means (RFID tag) 65 of the drug container 31 is rewritten. Once these processes are complete, the system transitions to the filling screen shown in Figure 23(b), where the amount of inventory after filling is displayed. The filling process is completed when the operator performs the prescribed termination procedure, and the information after filling is printed on the printer 7.

[0126] (Filling assistance performed using only the weighing device 12) When using only the weighing device 12 to assist with filling, switch the operating mode to drug filling mode. The barcode on the medicine bottle and the contents of the RFID on the medicine container 31 are compared to confirm that they match. The container is placed on the weighing device 12, the weight is tared, and the drug is weighed and filled into the drug container.

[0127] (Handling of cases where a non-pharmacist logs in) The above explains how to use the device when a pharmacist logs in; however, the scope of use will be restricted when a non-pharmacist logs in. Furthermore, the display is modified so that it is clear from the outside who is logged in. For example, the background color of the display screen differs depending on whether a pharmacist or a non-pharmacist is logged in. In particular, the background colors of the Auto and Manual screens are different.

[0128] Furthermore, if a non-pharmacist logs in, information related to dispensing will not be displayed. For example, the following items are not displayed on the dispensing screen. Also, some of the switches displayed on the screen are disabled and do not function when touched. (1) Prescription dosage information (number of days and minutes). (2) Patient information (age, weight). (3) Daily dose of medication. Additionally, the Print (Yes / No), Auto / Manual, Do, and Split buttons displayed on the dispensing screen will be disabled.

[0129] For example, the following items are not displayed on the weighing screen. (1) Regular dose. Additionally, the setting button, tare button, zero button, display expansion button, range switching button, and select button displayed on the weighing screen will be disabled.

[0130] Furthermore, even when dispensing powdered medication using the automatic mode, its implementation may be restricted in certain cases. For example, if the prescription data includes an age setting and the patient is a child under 15 years of age, a non-pharmacist cannot dispense the medication. For example, if the prescribed amount is small, such as in an under-weighed prescription, and the target discharge amount is below a predetermined value, a non-pharmacist cannot dispense the medication.

[0131] The main components and functions of the powder dispensing device 1 have been described above. In addition to the functions described above, the powder dispensing device 1 also has the following functions.

[0132] (Function to display the time required for dispensing) As described above, once the required drug container 31 is correctly mounted on the drug container stand 10, the display unit 26 transitions to the discharge input screen as shown in Figure 14, where the amount of powder to be discharged is determined and entered. After a predetermined operation, the drug container 31 vibrates, and the powder inside the drug container 31 is discharged into the weighing container 15. In the powder dispensing device 1 of this embodiment, for example, once the amount of powder to be dispensed has been determined, the approximate time required to dispense the powder can be displayed. The time required to dispense the powdered medicine is determined, for example, by calculation. The calculation is based on, for example, the following formula:

[0133] Time required for dispensing = Base time + (Dispensing amount / Constant)

[0134] Here, "basic time" is the time from the start of vibration until the powder begins to fall. For example, it is 15 seconds. "Constant" is the amount of powder discharged per second. The "basic time" and "constant" will vary depending on the device and the powder being used, but for example, the "basic time" can be set to 15 and the "constant" to 5. For example, if you want to excrete 20g of powdered medicine, applying this to the above formula would result in the following:

[0135] 15+(20 / 5)=19(seconds)

[0136] Furthermore, the "basic time" may be changed depending on the amount of emissions. For example, if the amount of emissions is small, such as 1g or less, the "basic time" may be increased, for example, to 30 seconds.

[0137] While the calculation result can be displayed as is, it is preferable to round up the result to indicate a rough estimate of the time, since the purpose is to provide a general idea. For example, it can be displayed as follows:

[0138] Less than 30 seconds ⇒ Less than 30 seconds 30-59 seconds ⇒ Less than 1 minute 60 seconds to 119 seconds ⇒ Less than 2 minutes This allows workers to know in advance the approximate time required for dispensing.

[0139] (Display prompting calibration of weighing device) The powder dispensing device 1 has two weight measuring devices. Specifically, as shown in Figure 6, the powder dispensing device 1 has a balance unit (weighing means) 80 on the weighing device 12. In addition, a container weight measuring unit 35 is located below the container support part 33 of the drug container mounting stand 10 (Figure 8). Since both the balance unit 80 of the weighing device 12 and the container weight measuring section 35 of the drug container mounting stand 10 are measuring instruments that measure weight, they should be calibrated at regular intervals.

[0140] In this embodiment, if the balance unit 80 of the weighing device 12 and the container weight measuring unit 35 of the drug container stand 10 are not calibrated for a certain period of time, a message prompting calibration will be displayed when the powder weighing device 1 is started. In addition, if there is a difference of a certain amount or more between the measurement value of the balance unit 80 and the measurement value of the container weight measuring unit 35, a message prompting calibration will be displayed. In other words, weight measuring instruments will lose their accuracy if they are not calibrated regularly. If a difference arises between the measurement value of the balance unit 80 and the measurement value of the container weight measuring unit 35, situations will arise where over-weighing or additional weighing is necessary. If there is no means to notify the system when over-weighing or additional weighing occurs, there is a possibility that over-weighing or additional weighing will occur again in the next formulation. Therefore, in this embodiment, if there is a difference exceeding a threshold between the measurement value of the balance unit 80 and the measurement value of the container weight measuring unit 35 after the weighing of the powdered medicine has been completed, a message prompting calibration of both will be displayed on the display unit 26.

[0141] (Correction of the position of the display member 22) In the powder dispensing device 1, as described above, a display element (electronic paper) 22 is provided on the weighing container 15, and bibliographic information such as the prescription number is written on the display element 22. In the aforementioned powder weighing device 1, an electronic paper rewriting device 8 is located on the left side of the balance platform 85 of the weighing device 12, and the display member 22 of the weighing container 15 is facing the front of the rewriting device 8 at a predetermined distance while writing is performed.

[0142] If the display element 22 and the rewriting device 8 are misaligned, the rewriting of the display element 22 may fail. In the powder dispensing device 1 of this embodiment, a distance measuring sensor (not shown) is attached to measure the distance between the display member 22 and the rewriting antenna in order to detect any misalignment in the installation of the display member 22 and the rewriting device 8.

[0143] In the powder weighing device 1 of this embodiment, a warning is issued when the distance measuring sensor detects a distance exceeding the rewritable distance of the display member (electronic paper) 22. The operator will then reposition the weighing container 15 before starting the weighing process. Possible distance measuring sensors include optical systems equipped with illumination and light-receiving lenses, millimeter-wave systems with antennas, and even ultrasonic systems. According to this embodiment, the electronic paper can be rewritten stably by accurately measuring the distance between the display member 22 and the rewriting antenna.

[0144] The powder dispensing device 1 of this embodiment dispenses a predetermined amount of a specific powder from the drug container 31 according to prescription data and introduces it into the weighing container 15. As described above, the operator removes the weighing container 15 from the powder dispensing device 1, moves it, puts it into the powder dispensing device, and performs the dispensing. Next, we will describe the powder dispensing device 200, which is preferably used in combination with the powder weighing device 1.

[0145] (Overview of powder dispensing device) As described above, the powder dispensing device 1 has a communication means 82 and can communicate with the powder dispensing device. Figures 23 and 24 show a powder dispensing device 200 that communicates with a powder dispensing device 1 to construct a series of dispensing systems. The powder dispensing device 200 has a tablet dispensing section 208 and can dispense not only powders but also tablets. The powder dispensing device 200 shown in Figures 23 and 24 is a dispensing tray type powder dispensing device. The powder dispensing device 200 has two dispensing trays 201, each with a hopper (including a trough) 202. Hereinafter, in order to distinguish between the two distribution pans 201, one distribution pan will be referred to as the first distribution pan 201a. The hopper corresponding to the first distribution pan 201a (only the trough is shown in Figure 24) will be referred to as the first hopper 202a. The other distribution pan will be referred to as the second distribution pan 201b, and the hopper corresponding to it will be referred to as the second hopper 202b.

[0146] The powder dispensing device 200 has an information reading means (RFID reader / writer) (not shown) that can read information from the information storage member 25 of the weighing container 15. The powder dispensing device 200 of this embodiment has two dispensing trays 201, each with a hopper 202, and therefore each hopper 202 has a corresponding information reading means. The information reading means is also a reading means. By reading the information storage member 25 of the weighing container 15 with an information reading means (reading means), it is recognized whether or not the powdered drug in the weighing container 15 is the powdered drug that should be placed in the hopper.

[0147] The powder dispensing device 200 also has a communication means (not shown) that can communicate with the powder weighing device 1, obtain information from the powder weighing device 1, and transmit information to the powder weighing device 1. The powder dispensing device 200 can also communicate with a claims processing computer and a terminal used by a physician via the communication means. Prescription information is input to the powder dispensing device 200 from the claims processing computer and the terminal used by a physician, and stored in the powder dispensing device 200. For example, prescription information can be entered into the claims processing computer in advance, transmitted from the claims processing computer to the powder dispensing device 200 via LAN (wired or wireless), and received and stored in the powder dispensing device 200. The powder dispensing device 200 can communicate with weighing devices other than the powder weighing device 1 of this embodiment, and can send and receive prescription information, etc.

[0148] (Confirmed by a pharmacist) The powder dispensing device 200 can also dispense powders that have been weighed using methods other than the powder weighing device 1. Powders weighed using the powder weighing device 1 have, in the system, undergone pharmacist inspection (or audit), and even non-pharmacists can operate the powder dispensing device 200 to dispense the powders. In contrast, powdered medications measured using other weighing devices are not necessarily subject to inspection by a pharmacist. Therefore, in the powder dispensing device 200 of this embodiment, if a prescription is entered that cannot be confirmed through mutual communication with the powder weighing device 1 as being a powder measured using the powder weighing device 1 (hereinafter referred to as an unconfirmed prescription), a message prompting the pharmacist to confirm is displayed on the display device of the powder dispensing device 200.

[0149] Figure 26 shows the display screen when an unverified prescription is sent from another device. The display screen shown in Figure 26 is the dispensing monitor screen. On the dispensing monitor screen, there is an item 205 labeled "Approval" in the lower right corner. Unless this "Approval" item 205 is clicked, the powdered medicine weighed using a device other than the powdered medicine weighing device 1 cannot be dispensed into a separate package.

[0150] When an authorized pharmacist clicks on item 205, "Approval," the screen transitions to the list of unapproved items shown in Figure 27. Furthermore, whether or not someone is a pharmacist will be verified through publicly known certification methods. In the unapproved list screen in Figure 27, the words "Unapproved" and "Approved" are displayed in the confirmation field 213 in the upper left. In the unapproved list screen in Figure 27, the word "Unapproved" is colored to make it stand out. In the approval list screen shown in Figure 27, the unapproved list 210 is displayed. The unapproved list 210 displays information that identifies the patient and prescription, such as the patient ID and patient name. There is also a square box 211 to the left of each column for checking a box.

[0151] In the middle of the right side of the approval list screen, there are items 215 for "Prescription Development" and 216 for "Deletion". Also, in the lower right side of the approval list screen, there is an item 217 for "Approval". Furthermore, by selecting a prescription, checking the box in square 211, and clicking "Expand Prescription," you will be taken to the approval list screen shown in Figure 28, where the details of the selected prescription will be displayed on the right. Specifically, the "Medication" column 220 and the "Usage" column 221 will appear, displaying the specific drug name and usage instructions. In the unapproved list screen (Figure 27) and the approved list screen (Figure 28), clicking on the "Approved" column (217) will approve the checked prescription and make it ready for packaging. Clicking on the "Delete" column (216) in the approved list screens (Figure 27) and (Figure 28) will cancel the checked prescription. Furthermore, once all prescriptions have been approved or deleted, the word "Approved" will be highlighted.

[0152] (Avoid overlapping application) Multiple powdered medications may be prescribed to the same patient. For example, powders a, b, and c may be prescribed, and all three powders a, b, and c may be packaged together. In this case, it is conceivable to perform a layered application by placing powders a, b, and c into one hopper (for example, the first hopper 202a) at once, and then introducing the powders from the first hopper 202a to the first dispensing tray 201a. In this specification, the act of placing multiple powders into one hopper 202 and then introducing the powders from the hopper 202 to the dispensing tray 201 is referred to as "layered application."

[0153] However, depending on the combination of powders used, introducing the powders from a single hopper (for example, the first hopper 202a) to the dispensing tray 201a may cause problems. For example, variations in the particle size, density, and viscosity of the powder can cause inconsistencies in the movement speed and dispersion of the powder within the hopper 202 or trough, resulting in uneven distribution to the dispensing dish 201. Similarly, significant differences in the prescribed amounts of powders a, b, and c can also lead to uneven distribution to the dispensing dish 201.

[0154] Such overlapping dispensing is possible because pharmacists, with their pharmaceutical knowledge regarding differences in prescription amounts, particle size, density, etc., can determine whether a drug is suitable for the same hopper 202. They can then appropriately adjust the timing of dispensing into the input hopper 202, or, if there are multiple hoppers 202, correctly determine which hopper to use. However, non-pharmacists lack such knowledge, which can lead to uneven distribution into the dispensing tray 201, resulting in so-called distribution errors.

[0155] To address this problem, in the packaging system of this embodiment, when multiple powders are prescribed to the same patient, a display member 207 prompts the user to place the powders into separate hoppers 202. The packaging system of this embodiment includes the powder weighing device 1 described above and a powder packaging device 200 equipped with a dispensing tray 201, and the powder weighing device 1 and the powder packaging device 200 are connected by a communication means to exchange information. The powder packaging device 200 has multiple hoppers 202 into which the powders to be placed in the dispensing tray 201 are placed, and when multiple powders are prescribed to the same patient, a display member 207 prompts the user to place the powders into separate hoppers 202.

[0156] When dispensing powdered medicine using the powder dispensing device 200 of this embodiment, if the prescription contains multiple powdered medicines, the hopper 202 is designated to dispense the powdered medicines into separate hoppers 202. Whether or not to make this designation can be selected through the settings. It is also possible to set the device to confirm whether or not to make this designation after processing each prescription. The following describes how it works when hopper 202 is specified. If a non-pharmacist is logged into the powder dispensing device 200 or the powder weighing device 1, the system will, in principle, prohibit overlapping dispensing and will be set to a mode that allows the following hopper 202a and 202b to be specified. The main body of the powder dispensing device 200, or the display component 207 on the powder dispensing device 200, will display whether it is operating in "pharmacist-only mode" where a pharmacist is logged in, or in "non-pharmacist-only mode" where a non-pharmacist is logged in or the user is unknown.

[0157] The aforementioned powder dispensing device 1 is controlled to, in principle, dispense only one type of powder into each weighing container 15. Therefore, if a prescribed medication contains multiple powders, each powder is weighed using a different weighing container 15. The information storage means 65 of the weighing container 15, after weighing is complete, records the name of the drug dispensed and various IDs. For example, if a prescription contains three types of powders, the operator will weigh the powders into three separate weighing containers 15. Specifically, as shown in Figure 13, the prescription display section of the screen shows the drug name, daily dose, total amount, etc., for each of the three types of drugs. The user selects each drug and begins the weighing process. That is, one of the three drug containers 31 is attached to the drug container stand 10 of the main unit 5, the weighing process described above is performed, and the predetermined amount is placed into one weighing container 15. Next, another drug container 31 is attached to the drug container stand 10 of the main unit 5 and placed into another weighing container 15. This operation is performed for the remaining type of drug, and three weighing containers 15 containing different powders are prepared. On the powder dispensing device 1, once the weighing of all drugs is complete, a confirmation screen appears indicating the completion of weighing, such as "Weighing of all drugs is complete," as shown in Figure 18(c). Then, through a predetermined operation, information indicating the completion of weighing is transmitted to the powder dispensing device 200.

[0158] The operator carries the three weighing containers 15 to the powder dispensing device 200. The operator then brings the weighing containers 15 close to the hoppers 202a and 202b of the powder dispensing device 200 and reads the information of the weighed drug or the drug's ID, etc., from the information storage member 25 of the weighing containers 15 using an information reading means (RFID reader / writer, not shown) near the hoppers 202a and 202b. As a result, the powder dispensing device 200 recognizes the corresponding prescription and prompts the operator on the display screen to put the drug from the weighing containers 15 into the correct hoppers 202a and 202b.

[0159] In this case, if there are multiple medications (weighing containers 15), the powder dispensing device 200 alternately distributes the powders to the first hopper 202a and the second hopper 202b in the order in which the prescription details data arrives. That is, it determines which hopper 202a or 202b the powders in the weighing containers 15 should be dispensed into, and displays a guide for each type of powder. Please note that the sorting process applies only to powdered medications.

[0160] For example, if four types of medication are prescribed as shown in the table in Figure 29, and three of them—"Magnesium Oxide Powder 'Maruishi'", "Asveric Acid", and "Carbocysteine ​​DS 50% 'Towa'"—are in powder form, then Hopper 202 is designated. Specifically, "Magnesium Oxide Powder 'Maruishi'" is designated for hopper 10A (first hopper 202a), "Asberic Acid" is designated for hopper 10B (second hopper 202b), and "Carbocysteine ​​DS 50% 'Towa'" is designated for hopper 10A (first hopper 202a).

[0161] Next, a list of chemicals distributed to each hopper is created, as shown in Figure 30. Then, the display member 207 of the powder dispensing device 200 displays a message prompting the dispenser to add the powder, as shown in Figure 31. In other words, "We will dispense the prescription for patient name 'Jun Manjome', RpNo. '1', and exchange ticket No. '10'." "Please set 'Magnesium Oxide Powder 'Maruishi'' in Hopper A." The message "Please set 'Asveric Acid' in Hopper B" is displayed. In other words, you are instructed to put "Magnesium Oxide Powder 'Maruishi'" into the first hopper 202a and "Asveric Acid" into the second hopper 202b.

[0162] The worker follows the instructions on the screen and puts "Magnesium Oxide Powder 'Maruishi'" into the first hopper 202a and "Asveric Acid" into the second hopper 202b. Prior to dispensing the powdered medicine, information about the powdered medicine transported by the weighing container 15 is read from the information storage member 25 of the weighing container 15 by an information reading means (not shown) provided near each hopper 202a, 202b of the powdered medicine packaging device 200. This action confirms that "Magnesium Oxide Powder 'Maruishi'" has been added to the first hopper 202a and "Asveric Acid" has been added to the second hopper 202b.

[0163] Once the operator has finished dispensing the pesticide into each hopper 202, they click "OK" on the display screen. The control device of the powder dispensing device 200 determines, based on the information about the powder input by the information storage member 25, whether or not all the drugs indicated on the display screen have been put into the designated hoppers 202a and 202b. Once all the chemicals have been placed in the designated hoppers 202a and 202b, the dispensing trays 201a and 201b will rotate, and the hoppers (including the troughs) 202a and 202b will begin to vibrate, introducing the powdered chemicals into the dispensing trays 201a and 201b.

[0164] When the operator clicks "OK" on the display screen, if not all of the chemicals indicated on the display screen have been placed in the designated hoppers 202a and 202b, a message prompting the operator to add the powdered chemicals again will be displayed as shown in Figure 31. Furthermore, clicking "Cancel" on the screen shown in Figure 31 will terminate the process without supplying powder to the dispensing trays 201a and 201b.

[0165] In the above-described example, three types of powders are prescribed, and for "Carbocisteine DS50%", the dispensing has not been completed. According to this example, the display screen transitions, and a display prompting the operator to put "Carbocisteine DS50% "Tower"" into the hopper 10A (the first hopper 202a) is made. The operator follows the instructions on the screen as described above, and reads the information of the powder carried by the weighing container 15 from the information storage member 25 of the weighing container 15 by an information reading means (not shown) provided near the first hopper 202a of the powder packaging apparatus 200, and puts "Carbocisteine DS50% "Tower"" into the first hopper 202a. The following steps are the same as the previous steps. When the operator clicks "OK" on the display screen, it is determined whether all the drugs indicated on the display screen have been put into the designated hopper 202a, and the dispensing is started.

[0166] In this way, when the information reading means of one hopper 202a reads the information of the information storage member 25 of a specific weighing container 15, an instruction is given to read the information by the information storage member 25 of another weighing container 15 by the information reading means of another hopper 202b. On the condition that the input of the powder into the dispensing tray 201 corresponding to the first hopper 202 is completed, a guidance permitting the powder to be put into the first hopper 202 from the next other weighing container 15 is displayed.

[0167] On the other hand, when the operator makes a mistake and approaches the weighing container 15 to the information reading means (not shown) provided near each of the hoppers 202a and 202b to read the information of the weighing container 15, if it is not the weighing container 15 containing the designated drug, the display screen displays that the weighing container 15 is incorrect, and prompts the operator to read the information of the correct weighing container 15 again.

[0168] For example, if the operator approaches the weighing container 15 to the information reading means (not shown) provided near one hopper 202a to read the information of the weighing container 15, and then continues to approach another weighing container 15 to read the information of the weighing container 15, a predetermined notification such as a warning is made on the display screen. In other words, when information is read consecutively from the information storage member 25 of different weighing containers 15 to the information reading means of one of the multiple hoppers 202, a predetermined notification is given to the display member 207.

[0169] Furthermore, if an operator mistakenly puts powdered medication from different weighing containers 15 into the same hopper 202, the packaging process may be stopped, and evidence that the overlapping application occurred may be printed separately in a journal or similar document, including the logged-in operator who performed the action, the medication used, and the date and time of the action.

[0170] In the embodiment described above, when there are multiple chemicals (weighing containers 15), the destinations for the powdered chemicals were alternately distributed to the first hopper 202a and the second hopper 202b in the order in which the detailed data arrived. However, as an alternative method, the powdered chemicals may be first placed into the hopper 202 that the worker approaches first. In other words, the powder dispensing device 200 recognizes that either hopper 202a or 202b, which the operator first approaches, is the first hopper into which the powder will be dispensed. Subsequent hoppers 202 into which the powder from the weighing container 15 should be dispensed may be automatically set and displayed alternately to a different hopper 202 than the first one approached. In all cases, it is desirable that the display or sound prompting the next dose of powder be issued at the time when the previous dose has been completely dispensed from hopper 202 and the sensor (not shown) no longer detects the dropping of powder. It is also recommended to calculate a predetermined time for all the powder to be dispensed and issue a display or sound prompting the addition of powder after that time has elapsed since hopper 202 began to vibrate.

[0171] Although the powder dispensing device 200 exemplified above has multiple dispensing trays 201, it is desirable to avoid overlapping dispensing even when configuring a system with a powder dispensing device 200 that has only one dispensing tray 201 and one hopper (including trough) 202, and a powder weighing device 1. When multiple powders are to be loaded into a powder dispensing device with a single dispensing tray, a message will be displayed allowing subsequent powders to be loaded into the hopper only after the previous powder has been successfully dispensed into the tray. The present invention can also be applied to a powder dispensing device having multiple hoppers (including troughs) 202 for a single dispensing tray 201.

[0172] The display member 207 of the powder dispensing device 200 displays appropriate information sequentially according to the process. For example, Figure 32 is a prescription input screen where the prescription to be packaged by the powder dispensing device 200 is entered. Prescription input is performed by receiving signals from a device that communicates with the powder dispensing device 200 via a communication means. In this embodiment of the powder dispensing device 200, only authorized pharmacists are permitted to change the content displayed on each screen. Furthermore, in the powder dispensing device 200 of this embodiment, the parameters for operating the powder dispensing device 200 are locked so that only authorized pharmacists can change them.

[0173] Specifically, the hopper 202 (including the trough) is vibrated to detect the dispensed powdered medication (not shown), and when used by a non-pharmacist, this detection function cannot be switched on or off and is locked in the on position. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the powder dispensing device 200 has a hopper 202 placed on a trough, and has a function to adjust the amount of powder that flows into the trough by adjusting the size of the opening at the lower end of the hopper as the powder put into the hopper 202 flows sequentially onto the trough. However, when used by a non-pharmacist, this function is locked to prevent adjustment of the opening. Furthermore, the hopper's beating function can be switched on and off, but when used by non-pharmacists, it should be locked in the "on" position to ensure that the function of shaking off any chemicals adhering to the hopper is always fixed.

[0174] For example, non-pharmacists cannot adjust the vibration intensity of hopper 202 or the sensitivity of sensors near hopper 202. Furthermore, the content displayed on each screen cannot be changed in principle. Furthermore, whether or not someone is a pharmacist will be verified through publicly known certification methods. Unauthorized users can view the display screen, but they cannot change its content. Even if an unauthorized user attempts to change the content, the device will not respond. However, matters unrelated to the prescription content, such as print layout, can be changed even by non-pharmacists. Additionally, settings may be established to allow only parts that can be safely modified or corrected with prior pharmacist certification.

[0175] In the embodiments described above, the vibration of the vibrating member 40 is stopped and the discharge of the powder is stopped when the weight change of the drug container 31 reaches the target amount. However, the vibration of the vibrating member 40 may also be stopped and the discharge of the powder may be stopped when the weighing value of the weighing device 12 reaches the target amount. Alternatively, the vibration of the vibrating member 40 may be stopped and the discharge of the powder may be stopped when either the weight change of the drug container 31 or the weighing value of the weighing device 12 reaches the target amount. Or, the vibration of the vibrating member 40 may be stopped and the discharge of the powder may be stopped when both the weight change of the drug container 31 and the weighing value of the weighing device 12 reach the target amount.

[0176] Next, another embodiment of the main unit will be described. The main unit 110 shown in Figure 34 is an improved version of the main unit 5, and further includes a funnel detection sensor 111 and a powder fall detection sensor 112. In the main unit 110 shown in Figure 34, a sensor case 115 is located next to the drug container holder 10. Openings 116 and 117 are provided on the top and side surfaces of the sensor case 115. A funnel detection sensor 111 is housed within the sensor case 115, in an opening 116 on the top surface. Additionally, a powder drop detection sensor 112 is housed in an opening 117 on the side. The funnel detection sensor 111 is a photoelectric sensor that detects whether or not there is something on the opening 116. The powdered drug fall detection sensor 112 is a photoelectric sensor that detects whether or not powdered drug is falling from the drug container 31.

[0177] As described above, the powder dispensing device 1 of this embodiment is capable of dispensing drugs using an automatic drug dispensing mode, and this can also be done with the drug container 31 placed on the drug container mounting stand 10 of the main unit 110. In this case, the weight of the drug container 31 is measured by the container weight measuring unit 35 of the drug container mounting stand 10 and temporarily stored as the weight before dispensing. However, if the funnel 36 is still attached to the drug container 31 when measuring its weight, the pre-filling weight will be incorrectly measured, resulting in an inaccurate detection of the amount of powdered drug inside the drug container 31. To address this problem, the main unit 110 is equipped with a funnel detection sensor 111.

[0178] The powder dispensing device 1 of this embodiment has a funnel detection sensor 111, and if the funnel 36 is still attached to the drug container 31, the funnel detection sensor 111 will detect the presence of the funnel 36. In this embodiment, if the funnel 36 remains attached to the drug container 31, some kind of message will be displayed on the display screen of the powder weighing device 1, prompting the user to remove the funnel 36. Also, the automatic drug filling mode will show an error, and the process will not proceed to the next step.

[0179] Furthermore, in the powder dispensing device 1 of this embodiment, as described above, when dispensing powder from the drug container 31, the weight of the drug container 31 is measured by the drug container stand 10 prior to the start of vibration. If the drug container 31 is placed on the drug container stand 10 with the funnel 36 still attached, the weight of the drug container 31 will be measured incorrectly, resulting in an inaccurate detection of the amount of powder inside the drug container 31. In this embodiment, when the medicine container 31 is installed on the medicine container mounting table 10 and the funnel detection sensor 111 detects the funnel 36, some display is made on the display screen of the powder medicine weighing device 1, and it is urged to remove the funnel 36. Also, the process does not proceed to the previous step.

[0180] Since the main body devices 5 and 110 of the powder medicine weighing device 1 of this embodiment include a powder medicine dropping detection sensor 112, it is possible to detect early that the powder medicine has been discharged from the medicine container 31. Therefore, it is possible to start discharging the powder medicine earlier, and as a result, it is possible to finish discharging a predetermined amount of powder medicine in a short time. In the powder medicine weighing device 1 of this embodiment, the vibration member 40 of the medicine container mounting table 10 is vibrated to discharge the powder medicine from the medicine container 31. When the medicine container 31 is vibrated, the powder medicine in the medicine container 31 moves toward the powder medicine discharge portion 71, and the first powder medicine is discharged. Since it is desirable that the time until the discharge of the powder medicine starts is short, it is desirable to apply a relatively strong vibration to the medicine container 31 until the dispensing of the powder medicine starts. On the other hand, when the total discharge amount is small, if the vibration intensity is strong, there is a concern that the required amount will be reached only by the first discharge.

[0181] If there is no powder medicine dropping detection sensor 112, the start of the discharge of the powder medicine will be detected from the change in the weight of the medicine container 31, but there is a delay in the detection by the weight measuring means 52. Therefore, if the vibration intensity is made too strong, after the discharge of the powder medicine actually starts, the state where the discharge amount per unit time is large will continue for a short time, and there is a drawback that the required discharge amount will be exceeded. Therefore, it is difficult to increase the vibration until the dispensing of the powder medicine starts, it takes time until the dispensing of the powder medicine starts, and the time required to discharge a predetermined amount of powder medicine becomes long. In contrast, in this embodiment, the powder medicine dropping detection sensor 112 detects the discharge of the powder medicine. The powder medicine dropping detection sensor 112 is an optical sensor and has little delay. Therefore, the vibration intensity until the dispensing of the powder medicine starts can be increased, the powder medicine can start to be discharged earlier, and the time required to discharge a predetermined amount of powder medicine is short.

[0182] (Forced ejection mode) As described above, the powder dispensing device 1 of this embodiment has a function that displays a notification to the user if the amount of powder remaining in the drug container 31 to be used is less than the amount required for the prescription. As described above, this function can also be turned off by setting it. If the function to indicate the possibility of a shortage is turned off, using the drug container 31 will naturally result in a shortage of powdered medicine, and as described above, an information screen indicating a shortage, as shown in Figure 21, will appear. However, it can take a relatively long time to confirm that an item is out of stock. To solve this problem, a forced ejection mode has been adopted. The forced discharge mode is an operating mode in which all of the powder in the drug container 31 is discharged into the weighing container 15.

[0183] The forced discharge mode is automatically activated when the remaining amount of powder in the drug container 31 is less than a certain amount compared to the required discharge amount. In forced discharge mode, the drug container 31 is vibrated at maximum intensity to discharge the drug while the drug drop detection sensor 112 detects the discharge of the drug. For a short time after the drug drop detection sensor 112 no longer detects the discharge of the drug, the drug container 31 is vibrated at maximum intensity. After the aforementioned short period of time has elapsed, the vibration intensity is reduced and the drug container 31 is vibrated for a further short period of time. If the powder dispensing detection sensor 112 does not detect the discharge of powder during this time, the vibration stops and an information screen indicating a shortage, as shown in Figure 21, is displayed.

[0184] Furthermore, after reducing the vibration intensity and vibrating the drug container 31 for a short time, it is also possible to briefly increase the vibration intensity to maximum again after the drop detection sensor no longer detects a fall. This action has the effect of allowing any powdered drug that had accumulated in clumps near the discharge port to be broken up before being discharged. [Industrial applicability]

[0185] The present invention is a device for dispensing powdered medicine and can contribute to achieving the third Sustainable Development Goal (SDG), which is to "ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages." The present invention provides a powder dispensing device that eliminates the powder weighing and other powder auditing tasks that should be performed by qualified personnel such as pharmacists, making it usable by non-pharmacists such as technicians. Specifically, operators can reliably dispense the necessary medications based on prescription information simply by placing the designated medication containers on the device, without being aware that they are medications. This allows qualified pharmacists to shift from object-oriented tasks such as dispensing to person-oriented tasks such as interacting with patients, and enables non-pharmacists to perform necessary dispensing tasks, thereby contributing to achieving the third Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) of "ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all at all ages." Furthermore, this invention can reduce labor costs and improve economic productivity. This, too, can contribute to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). [Explanation of symbols]

[0186] 1: Powder dispensing device, 2: Housing component, 5: Main unit, 6: Barcode reader, 7: Printer, 8: Rewriting device, 10: Drug container stand, 12: Weighing device, 15: Weighing container, 22: Display component, 25: Information storage component, 26: Display unit, 31: Drug container, 35: Container weight measuring unit, 40: Vibrating member, 52: Weight measuring means, 56: Information reading means, 65: Information storage means, 81: Information reading means, 85 Balance stand, 110: Main unit

Claims

1. A powder dispensing device for dispensing a predetermined amount of powder, comprising a drug container holding means on which a drug container is placed, a weighing means equipped with a display function for displaying weight, and an input means, The drug container placement means includes a container weight measuring means and a drug discharge means for discharging powder from the drug container, and the container weight measuring means can detect the amount of powder discharged from the drug container. The weighing means is located near the drug container placement means and measures the weight of the powdered drug discharged from the drug container. A powder dispensing device characterized by inputting a predetermined amount to the input means, driving the discharge means to discharge powder from the drug container, monitoring the amount of powder discharged from the drug container by the container weight measuring means, and stopping the drug discharge means when the amount of powder discharged reaches the predetermined amount.

2. The powder weighing device according to claim 1, characterized in that the weighing means and the input means are equipped in a single weighing device, and the predetermined amount is input by operating the weighing device.

3. The powder weighing device according to claim 2, characterized in that the weighing device includes a comparison means for comparing the weight of the drug measured by the weighing means with the predetermined amount input to the input means.

4. The weighing device according to claim 2 is characterized in that it can also weigh powdered medicine that has been manually taken out by an operator.

5. The system comprises a drug container capable of containing powdered medicine, a drug discharge means for dispensing the powdered medicine from the drug container, a container weight measuring means for measuring the amount of powdered medicine discharged from the drug container, a weighing means for weighing the powdered medicine, and a control means. The control means is capable of switching between a first mode in which, according to a target value of the amount of powdered drug related to an input supply instruction, the drug discharge means dispenses the powdered drug from the drug container while measuring it with the container weight measuring means and weighs the powdered drug with the weighing means, and a second mode in which the powdered drug is weighed by the weighing means by manually placing it on the weighing means without dispensing the powdered drug from the drug container with the drug discharge means.

6. A powder dispensing device for dispensing a predetermined amount of powder, comprising a housing member having an openable and closable cover, a drug container capable of containing the powder, a drug container mounting means on which the drug container is placed, and a weighing means equipped with a display unit, The drug container placement means includes a container weight measuring means and a drug discharge means for discharging powder from the drug container, and the container weight measuring means can detect the amount of powder discharged from the drug container. The weighing means is located near the drug container placement means and measures the weight of the powdered drug discharged from the drug container. A powder dispensing device characterized in that part or all of the drug container, part or all of the drug container mounting means, and part of the weighing means are arranged in the area of ​​the housing member that is covered by the cover when the cover is closed, and the display portion of the weighing means is positioned so that it is exposed from the cover.

7. The powder dispensing device according to claim 6, characterized in that, under the condition that the cover is closed, the dispensing of powder from the drug container by the drug dispensing means is started, and under the condition that the dispensing of powder from the drug container is completed, the cover can be opened.

8. The system has a weighing container, which is placed on the weighing means, and the weighing container receives the powdered drug discharged from the drug container and measures the weight of the powdered drug. The powder weighing device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the weight of the weighing container is stored, and a predetermined notification is given when the difference between the weight of the weighing container placed on the weighing means and the stored weight of the weighing container is greater than or equal to a predetermined value.

9. A container vibration means for vibrating a drug container, a container weight measuring means for measuring the weight of a drug container, a weighing container, and using the weighing means, The weighing container is placed on the weighing means, The drug container is vibrated by the container vibrator to discharge the powdered drug from the drug container into the weighing container. At this time, the weight change of the drug container is monitored by the container weight measuring means, and the amount of powdered drug discharged into the weighing container is measured by the weighing means. The amount of powder dispensed is calculated from the weight change of the aforementioned drug container. A method for weighing powdered medicine, characterized in that the vibration of the medicine container by the container vibration means is stopped when the amount of powdered medicine dispensed calculated from the weight change or / or the measured value of the weighing means reaches a certain value.

10. A dispensing system comprising a powder dispensing device and a powder dispensing device equipped with a dispensing tray, as described in claim 1. The aforementioned powder dispensing device has multiple hoppers into which the powder to be dispensed into the dispensing tray is placed. A dispensing system characterized by a display prompting the user to place multiple powdered medications into separate hoppers when multiple powdered medications are prescribed to the same patient.

11. A dispensing system comprising a powder dispensing device and a powder dispensing device equipped with a dispensing tray, as described in claim 1. The aforementioned powder dispensing device has multiple hoppers for dispensing powders to be placed in a dispensing tray, and each hopper has a means for reading information corresponding to it. The aforementioned powder weighing device receives the powder discharged from the drug container into a weighing container and measures the weight of the powder. The weighing container is provided with an information storage member, and by reading the information storage member with the reading means, it is recognized whether or not the powder in the weighing container is the powder that should be placed in the hopper. A packaging system characterized in that when information is read consecutively from information storage members of different weighing containers to the reading means of one of the aforementioned multiple hoppers, a predetermined notification is issued.

12. A dispensing system comprising a powder dispensing device and a powder dispensing device equipped with a dispensing tray, as described in claim 1. The aforementioned powder dispensing device has two hoppers for dispensing powdered medicine into a dispensing tray, and each hopper has a corresponding reading means. The aforementioned powder weighing device receives the powder discharged from the drug container into a weighing container and measures the weight of the powder. A dispensing system characterized in that, when multiple powders are prescribed to the same patient, when the reading means of one hopper reads the information from the information storage element of a specific weighing container, the reading means of another hopper instructs the reading means of another hopper to read the information from the information storage element of another weighing container, and, provided that the dispensing of the powder into the dispensing tray corresponding to the first hopper is complete, it further provides guidance to allow the dispensing of the powder from the next other weighing container into the first hopper.

13. A dispensing system comprising a powder dispensing device and a powder dispensing device equipped with a dispensing tray, as described in claim 1. A dispensing system characterized by providing guidance that, when multiple powders are prescribed to the same patient, allows subsequent powders to be dispensed into the hopper only after the previous powder has been dispensed into the dispensing tray.

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