Medicine feeding device

Abstract

To reduce an occupied space in a cross direction of a medicine feeding device.SOLUTION: A dispensing table unit 100 has a placement part 130 and a dispensing table 120. A selected case 300a selected from multiple cases 300 can be placed on the placement part 130. The dispensing table 120 is positioned below the placement part 130. A conveyance unit 400 is provided movably along each rear side of a case rack 200 and the dispensing table unit 100. The conveyance unit 400 conveys the selected case 300a between the case rack 200 and the placement part 130. The selected case 300a placed on the placement part 130 is positioned on the rear side in comparison with each of the multiple cases 300 stored in the case rack 200.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a drug supply device.

Background Art

[0002] As a prior art document disclosing the configuration of an automatic drug supply device, there is Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2011-78598 (Patent Document 1). The automatic drug supply device described in Patent Document 1 includes a storage unit, a drug picking unit, a box moving mechanism, and a tray mounting table. The storage unit is configured to be able to arrange a plurality of boxes for storing drugs. The drug picking unit takes in and out drugs from the box. The box moving mechanism is configured so that the box can move between the storage unit and the drug picking unit. The storage unit is disposed on the front side of the device, and the box moving mechanism is disposed on the back side of the device. A tray for storing the drugs taken out from the box is placed on the tray mounting table.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] When the dispensing table, which is a tray mounting table, is arranged on the front side of the device from the drug picking unit, the occupied space in the front-rear direction of the drug supply device becomes large.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object thereof is to provide a drug supply device capable of reducing the occupied space in the front-rear direction.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The drug supply device according to the present invention includes a case rack, a dispensing table unit, and a conveying unit. The case rack stores a plurality of cases in which drugs are stored. The dispensing table unit is arranged adjacent to the case rack in the left-right direction. The dispensing table unit has a placement portion and a dispensing table. A selected case selected from the plurality of cases can be placed on the placement portion. The dispensing table is located below the placement portion. The conveying unit is provided so as to be movable behind each of the case rack and the dispensing table unit. The conveying unit conveys the selected case between the case rack and the placement portion. The selected case placed on the placement portion is located on the rear side compared to each of the plurality of cases stored in the case rack.

[0007] In one embodiment of the present invention, a part of the dispensing table is located below the placement portion. In one embodiment of the present invention, when the conveying unit moves in the left-right direction inside the dispensing table unit, it overlaps with the placement portion when viewed from the up-down direction.

[0008] In one embodiment of the present invention, the dispensing table is located on the rear side of the position of the front end of the case rack when viewed from the left-right direction.

[0009] In one embodiment of the present invention, the placement portion is pull-outable in the front-rear direction, and the position of the front end of the placement portion in the state where it is pulled out and located closest to the front is located behind the front end of the dispensing table.

[0010] In one embodiment of the present invention, in the dispensing table unit, a storage space is formed at least in one of a position below the dispensing table and a position above the placement portion.

Effect of the Invention

[0011] According to the present invention, the occupied space in the front-rear direction of the drug supply device can be reduced.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0012]

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Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0013] Hereinafter, a drug supply device according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description of the embodiments, the same or corresponding parts in the drawings are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will not be repeated. In the specification, the left - right direction is described as the direction when the drug supply device is viewed from the front side. Also, the front of the drug supply device may be expressed as the front surface, and the back of the drug supply device may be expressed as the rear surface.

[0014] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a drug supply device according to an embodiment of the present invention, as viewed from above the front side. FIG. 2 is a front view of the drug supply device of FIG. 1. FIG. 3 is a side view of the drug supply device of FIG. 1, as viewed from the right side. FIG. 4 is a rear view of the drug supply device of FIG. 1. FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a drug supply device according to an embodiment of the present invention, as viewed from above the back side. In FIGS. 3 and 5, the state where the side plate on the right side of the dispensing table unit is removed is shown.

[0015] As shown in FIGS. 1 to 5, a drug supply device 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a dispensing table unit 100, a case rack 200, and a conveyance unit 400. In the present embodiment, when viewed from the front, two case racks 200 are arranged side by side on the left side of the dispensing table unit 100. However, the arrangement of the dispensing table unit 100 and the case racks 200 is not limited to this, and a plurality of case racks 200 may be arranged so as to sandwich the dispensing table unit 100 from left and right, or one case rack 200 may be arranged on either the left or right side of the dispensing table unit 100. Thus, the dispensing table unit 100 is arranged adjacent to the case rack 200 in the left-right direction.

[0016] The case rack 200 houses a plurality of cases 300 in which drugs are stored. The case rack 200 includes a housing 210, a shelf plate portion 220, a drawer 230, and an opening / closing door 240.

[0017] The plurality of shelf plate portions 220 are arranged at intervals in the vertical direction on the front side inside the housing 210. A plurality of cases 300 are placed side by side in the left-right direction on each of the plurality of shelf plate portions 220.

[0018] In the present embodiment, the front side of the housing 210 is divided in the vertical direction into an upper region located above a dispensing table 120 (to be described later) and a lower region located below the dispensing table 120. Note that the front side of the housing 210 does not necessarily have to be divided into the upper region and the lower region.

[0019] The drawer 230 is configured to be pullable forward of the housing 210. The drawer 230 is arranged between the upper region and the lower region of the housing 210. The drawer 230 is configured to be able to place a tray (not shown) and a case 300 that can accommodate drugs. The drawer 230 does not necessarily have to be arranged.

[0020] The opening / closing door 240 is arranged in front of the housing 210 and is configured to be able to open and close the front side of the housing 210. In the present embodiment, a pair of opening / closing doors 240 are provided in each of the upper region and the lower region of the housing 210. The opening / closing door 240 is configured to be able to open and close in the left-right direction while being folded back. In FIGS. 1 and 2, when viewed from the front, the right opening / closing door 240 is not illustrated. The opening / closing door 240 is configured to be switchable between a locked state and an unlocked state.

[0021] In the state where the opening / closing door 240 is unlocked and open, the case rack 200 is configured to be able to take in and out a plurality of cases 300 from the front of the case rack 200. Conversely, in the state where the opening / closing door 240 is closed and locked, it is not possible to take in and out a plurality of cases 300 from the front of the case rack 200.

[0022] The dispensing unit 100 has a placement portion 130 and a dispensing table 120. The dispensing unit 100 further includes a housing 110, a lower storage space 140, an upper storage space 150, a display unit 160, a touch panel 170, a code reader 180, a printer 190, and an indicator light 161. The maximum depth dimension in the front-rear direction of the dispensing unit 100 is, for example, 700 mm.

[0023] In the housing 110, the portion above the placement portion 130 is located on the rear side in the front position compared to the portion below the dispensing table 120. In the present embodiment, an opening 111 is formed in the front surface of the housing 110 above the dispensing table 120. Five openings 111 are arranged side by side in the left-right direction. Note that the number of openings 111 is not limited to five and may be one or more.

[0024] The placement unit 130 can accommodate a selected case 300a selected from a plurality of cases 300. In the present embodiment, the placement unit 130 includes a base portion 131 on which the selected case 300a is placed, and a wall surface portion 132 attached to the front end of the base portion 131. The wall surface portion 132 is configured to be able to open and close the opening 111. Note that the placement unit 130 does not necessarily have to include the wall surface portion 132. In this case, the housing 110 may be provided with a shutter for opening and closing the opening 111.

[0025] The placement unit 130 is configured to be able to be pulled out in the front-rear direction with respect to the housing 110 through the opening 111. Note that the placement unit 130 does not necessarily have to be configured to be pullable. In this case, an opening is formed in a portion of the housing 110 located above the placement unit 130 so that drugs can be put into and taken out of the selected case 300a.

[0026] The dispensing table 120 is configured to be able to place a tray or the like that can accommodate drugs. The dispensing table 120 is located below the placement unit 130. A part of the dispensing table 120 is located below the placement unit 130. Specifically, the rear side portion of the dispensing table 120 is located directly below the placement unit 130. The dispensing table 120 and the placement unit 130 are provided at intervals in the vertical direction. A storage space 112 is formed between the dispensing table 120 and the placement unit 130. A tray or the like for storing drugs taken out from the selected case 300a can be inserted into the storage space 112 from the front.

[0027] As shown in FIG. 3, when viewed from the left-right direction, the dispensing table 120 is located behind the position of the front end of the case rack 200. In the present embodiment, the front end of the case rack 200 is the front end of the handle of the opening / closing door 240.

[0028] The position of the front end of the placement unit 130 is located behind the position of the front end of the case rack 200. As shown in FIG. 5, the selected case 300a placed on the placement unit 130 is located behind each of the plurality of cases 300 stored in the case rack 200.

[0029] The lower storage space 140 can store other cases with shapes or sizes different from that of the case 300, or drugs, etc. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the lower storage space 140 is formed in the housing 110 at a position below the dispensing table 120. In the present embodiment, a plurality of drawers are arranged in the lower storage space 140, but it is not limited thereto, and shelves may be arranged. The lower storage space 140 does not necessarily have to be formed.

[0030] The upper storage space 150 can store other cases with shapes or sizes different from that of the case 300, or drugs, etc. The upper storage space 150 is formed in the housing 110 at a position above the dispensing table 120. In the present embodiment, shelves are arranged in the upper storage space 150, but it is not limited thereto, and a plurality of drawers may be arranged. The upper storage space 150 does not necessarily have to be formed.

[0031] The display unit 160 is formed above the opening 111 on the front surface of the housing 110. The display unit 160 lights up when the selected case 300a is placed on the placement unit 130, thereby indicating that the selected case 300a is placed on the placement unit 130.

[0032] The touch panel 170 is provided on the front surface of the housing 110 at a position between the display unit 160 and the upper storage space 150 in the vertical direction, and at a position substantially in the center of the housing 110 in the horizontal direction.

[0033] The touch panel 170 can display information such as a patient's prescription information, and can also receive a selection operation for selecting an arbitrary case 300 from a plurality of cases 300. The touch panel 170 is electrically connected to a control unit (not shown).

[0034] The code reader 180 is provided on the front surface of the housing 110, to the right of the touch panel 170. The code reader 180 reads a code such as a barcode attached to a box containing a drug. The code reader 180 is electrically connected to the control unit.

[0035] When replenishing the drug in the selection case 300a, by reading the code with the code reader 180, the control unit can recognize the drug to be replenished. When the control unit recognizes a drug different from the drug to be replenished, it causes the touch panel 170 to display an alarm. Thereby, it is possible to suppress the replenishment of the wrong drug.

[0036] The printer 190 is provided on the front surface of the housing 110, to the left of the touch panel 170. The printer 190 can print the patient's name, prescription information, and the like. The printer 190 is electrically connected to the control unit.

[0037] The indicator lamp 161 is provided on the ceiling of the housing 110. The indicator lamp 161 indicates the presence or absence of an abnormality in the drug supply device 1. Specifically, when the drug supply device 1 is normal, it displays blue, and when the drug supply device 1 is abnormal, it displays red. The indicator lamp 161 is electrically connected to the control unit.

[0038] FIG. 6 is a perspective view seen from above the back side of the state where the transport unit has moved above the placement unit in the drug supply device according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIGS. 3 to 6, the transport unit 400 is provided so as to be movable behind each of the case rack 200 and the dispensing table unit 100. The transport unit 400 transports the selection case 300a between the case rack 200 and the placement unit 130.

[0039] The transport unit 400 is connected to the horizontal movement mechanism 500 and the vertical movement mechanism 600, and is configured to be movable in the left-right direction and the up-down direction. Each of the transport unit 400, the horizontal movement mechanism 500, and the vertical movement mechanism 600 is electrically connected to the control unit.

[0040] The transport unit 400 is configured to be movable only when the opening / closing door 240 is closed and locked. Specifically, the control unit drives each of the transport unit 400, the horizontal movement mechanism 500, and the vertical movement mechanism 600 only when it recognizes that the opening / closing door 240 is in a locked state.

[0041] As shown in FIG. 5, when the transport unit 400 moves within the case rack 200, it is positioned behind the case 300 placed on the shelf board portion 220.

[0042] As shown in FIG. 6, the transport unit 400 moves horizontally above the placement portion 130 inside the dispensing table unit 100. When the transport unit 400 moves horizontally inside the dispensing table unit 100, it overlaps with the placement portion 130 when viewed from the vertical direction. That is, the transport unit 400 is configured to pass through a position overlapping with the selected case 300a placed on the placement portion 130 when viewed from the vertical direction, and is not configured to pass behind the selected case 300a without overlapping with the selected case 300a placed on the placement portion 130.

[0043] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, an identification code 340 is attached to the front surface of each of the plurality of cases 300. The identification code 340 is a code for identifying the medicine stored in the case 300. When a plurality of medicines are stored in the case 300, a plurality of identification codes 340 may be attached to the case 300. The identification code 340 is, for example, a bar code or a QR code (registered trademark). The identification code 340 may be attached to the side surface of the case 300 instead of the front surface of the case 300. The identification code 340 does not necessarily have to be attached to the case 300.

[0044] As shown in FIG. 4, an identification code 350 is attached to the rear surface of each of the plurality of cases 300. The identification code 350 is a code for identifying an individual case 300. The identification code 350 is, for example, a barcode, a QR code (registered trademark), or a chameleon code (registered trademark).

[0045] Here, the case 300 according to the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the case according to an embodiment of the present invention as viewed from above. FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the case body according to an embodiment of the present invention as viewed from above. FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the case body according to an embodiment of the present invention as viewed from below.

[0046] As shown in FIGS. 7 to 9, the case 300 includes a case body 310, a fractional accommodation part 320, and a partition plate 330. Each of the fractional accommodation part 320 and the partition plate 330 is formed so as to be disposed inside the case body 310.

[0047] The fractional accommodation part 320 is, for example, a small case that accommodates the fractions of drugs packaged in a PTP (Press Through Package) packaging sheet. The partition plate 330 divides the inside of the case body 310 into a plurality of regions so that a plurality of types of drugs can be accommodated for each type of drug when the case 300 accommodates a plurality of types of drugs.

[0048] The case body 310 has a bottom 310b, and a front wall portion 310f, a rear wall portion 310r, and a pair of side wall portions 310s erected from the periphery of the bottom 310b. The case body 310 further has a transparent support portion 311 facing the front wall portion 310f with a slit 317 interposed therebetween. The case body 310 is formed by integral molding of resin.

[0049] The transparent support portion 311 is a portion that supports a card on which a drug name is inserted into the slit 317 from above so as to be visible from the front side of the case 300. Specifically, the lower end of the transparent support portion 311 is bent backward, and the card is supported at the bent portion.

[0050] A pair of side wall portions 310s of the case body 310 are formed with stepped portions 312 extending in the front-rear direction. The outer width of the case body 310 in the left-right direction is wider in the upper portion than in the lower portion of the stepped portion 312. The inner width of the case body 310 in the left-right direction is also wider in the upper portion than in the lower portion of the stepped portion 312.

[0051] A pair of protruding portions 313 extending in the left-right direction are formed on the upper surface of the rear wall portion 310r of the case body 310. The pair of protruding portions 313 are formed at both ends in the left-right direction on the upper surface of the rear wall portion 310r of the case body 310.

[0052] As shown in FIG. 9, a pair of recesses 314 are formed at the rear end of the bottom portion 310b of the case body 310. The pair of recesses 314 are formed at both ends in the left-right direction on the bottom portion 310b of the case body 310. Each of the pair of recesses 314 is open rearward. That is, each inner wall surface of the pair of recesses 314 is composed of a pair of side wall surfaces 314s facing each other in the left-right direction and a front wall surface 314f connecting the pair of side wall surfaces 314s.

[0053] As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, on the inner surfaces of the pair of side wall portions 310s of the case body 310, a plurality of groove portions 315 into which both ends in the left-right direction of the partition plate 330 are inserted are formed in the upper portion of the stepped portion 312. Each of the plurality of groove portions 315 extends in the up-down direction.

[0054] On the inner surfaces of the pair of side wall portions 310s of the case body 310, in the upper portion of the stepped portion 312, groove portions 316 are formed which engage with protrusions 321 formed on each of the pair of side surfaces of the fractional accommodation portion 320 to position the fractional accommodation portion 320 in the front-rear direction.

[0055] As shown in FIG. 9, an engaging portion 318 that engages with a claw portion of a conveyance unit 400 described later is formed on the rear side of the upper end portion of the rear wall portion 310r of the case body 310. The engaging portion 318 faces the upper end portion of the rear wall portion 310r with a space therebetween in the front-rear direction. The engaging portion 318 is connected to a flange extending rearward from the upper end portion of the rear wall portion 310r.

[0056] Here, the configuration of the placement unit 130 according to the present embodiment and the configuration around the placement unit 130 in the dispensing table unit 100 will be described.

[0057] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a state where the placement unit is pulled out as seen from above the front side in a drug supply device according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the periphery of the placement unit in the dispensing table unit according to an embodiment of the present invention as seen from above the front side. FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the periphery of the placement unit in the dispensing table unit according to an embodiment of the present invention as seen from above the rear side. FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the wall surface portion of the placement unit according to an embodiment of the present invention as seen from below the rear side. FIG. 14 is a side view of a state where the placement unit in the dispensing table unit according to an embodiment of the present invention is being pulled out as seen from the side. FIG. 15 is a side view of a state where the placement unit in the dispensing table unit according to an embodiment of the present invention is pulled out as seen from the side.

[0058] As shown in FIG. 10, the position of the front end of the placement unit 130 in the state where it is pulled out and located at the most forward position is located behind the front end of the dispensing table 120.

[0059] As shown in FIGS. 10 and 15, in the state where the placement unit 130 is pulled out and located at the most forward position, the placement unit 130 is inclined such that the front end of the placement unit 130 is located below the rear end of the placement unit 130. Note that the front end of the placement unit 130 is the wall surface portion 132, and the rear end of the placement unit 130 is the rear end of the base portion 131.

[0060] As shown in FIGS. 11, 12, 14, and 15, the base portion 131 has a flat plate shape. An opening 131h is formed in the base portion 131. A pair of rollers 131r are provided at the lower part of the base portion 131 with a space therebetween in the left-right direction. Each of the pair of rollers 131r is rotatably provided around a rotation axis extending in the left-right direction. As shown in FIGS. 14 and 15, a dog 131a and a suction portion 131p are provided at the lower part of the base portion 131. Each of the dog 131a and the suction portion 131p is composed of a single sheet of bent sheet metal.

[0061] As shown in FIGS. 11 to 15, a handle 132a is formed at the lower part of the wall surface portion 132. By hanging the hand on the handle 132a and pulling, the placement portion 130 can be pulled out.

[0062] An opening 132b is formed at the upper part of the wall surface portion 132. A transparent plate 133 that closes the opening 132b is attached to the rear surface of the wall surface portion 132. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 12, a pair of protrusions 132c are provided on the rear surface of the wall surface portion 132. The transparent plate 133 is attached to the wall surface portion 132 by fitting retaining rings 134 to each of the pair of protrusions 132c in a state where the pair of protrusions 132c are inserted through a pair of through holes formed in the transparent plate 133.

[0063] Thereby, the card with the drug name described thereon, which is attached to the selection case 300a, can be visually recognized from the front side of the wall surface portion 132 through the transparent plate 133 and the transparent support portion 311.

[0064] As shown in FIGS. 12 to 15, a protruding portion 132d that engages with the upper surface of the front end of the selection case 300a is formed at the upper part of the rear surface of the wall surface portion 132. Specifically, a pair of protruding portions 132d are formed at the upper part of the rear surface of the wall surface portion 132 with a space therebetween in the left-right direction. The lower surface of each of the pair of protruding portions 132d is a flat surface.

[0065] As shown in FIGS. 12, 14, and 15, a proximity sensor 10, a position detection sensor 11, an electromagnet 12, a guide rail 113, a roller 114, and a contact portion 115 are provided around the placement portion 130 in the dispensing unit 100. Each of the proximity sensor 10, the position detection sensor 11, and the electromagnet 12 is electrically connected to the control unit.

[0066] The proximity sensor 10 detects that the selection case 300a is placed on the placement portion 130. The proximity sensor 10 is disposed below the opening 131h of the base portion 131 in a state where the placement portion 130 is not pulled out, and detects the presence or absence of the selection case 300a on the base portion 131 through the opening 131h.

[0067] The position detection sensor 11 detects that the placement portion 130 is located at the origin position in the front-rear direction when the placement portion 130 is not pulled out. Specifically, the position detection sensor 11 detects that the placement portion 130 is located at the origin position by detecting a dog 131a provided at the lower portion of the base portion 131. In the present embodiment, the position detection sensor 11 is a microphoto sensor, but is not limited thereto, and for example, a limit switch or the like may be used.

[0068] The electromagnet 12 can lock the placement portion 130 so that it cannot move. Specifically, when current is supplied to the electromagnet 12, the electromagnet 12 adsorbs an adsorbed portion 131p provided at the lower portion of the base portion 131, thereby locking the placement portion 130 so that it cannot move from the origin position. When the supply of current to the electromagnet 12 is stopped, the lock of the placement portion 130 is released.

[0069] The guide rail 113 defines the movement locus of the roller 131r provided at the lower part of the base portion 131. Specifically, below the placement portion 130, a pair of guide rails 113 are arranged at intervals in the left-right direction so as to extend in the front-rear direction. Each of the pair of guide rails 113 is formed with a through groove extending in the front-rear direction. A part of the front side of the through groove is inclined so as to be positioned upward as it goes to the front side. The roller 131r moves while rolling inside the through groove. Thereby, the placement portion 130 moves in the front-rear direction.

[0070] As shown in FIGS. 14 and 15, the roller 114 serves as a fulcrum when the placement portion 130 rotates and tilts while rolling in contact with the base portion 131 while the placement portion 130 is being pulled out. Specifically, the roller 114 is rotatably supported at a position behind the lower part of the opening 111.

[0071] As the roller 131r rises while advancing through the inclined portion of the through groove of the guide rail 113, the base portion 131 tilts by rotating about the portion supported by the roller 114 as the rotation center.

[0072] As shown in FIG. 15, the contact portion 115 contacts from above the rear side portion of the selection case 300a placed on the placement portion 130 in the state where the placement portion 130 is pulled out and is located closest to the front. Specifically, the contact portion 115 is provided on the housing 110 and is provided so as to be engageable with each of the pair of protruding portions 313 at a position behind the upper part of the opening 111. In the present embodiment, the contact portion 115 is formed of sheet metal, but is not limited thereto, and may be made of rubber or the like.

[0073] The selection case 300a placed on the placement portion 130 is regulated so that it cannot be easily taken out from the placement portion 130 because the upper surface of the front end of the selection case 300a is pressed by the protruding portion 132d and the rear side portion of the selection case 300a is pressed by the protruding portion 313 in the state where the placement portion 130 is tilted.

[0074] Here, the configuration of the transport unit 400 will be described. FIG. 16 is a perspective view of the transport unit according to an embodiment of the present invention, as seen from the front with the claw portion retracted. FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the transport unit according to an embodiment of the present invention, as seen from the side with the claw portion retracted. FIG. 18 is a perspective view of the transport unit according to an embodiment of the present invention, as seen from the front with the claw portion advanced. FIG. 19 is a perspective view of the transport unit according to an embodiment of the present invention, as seen from the side with the claw portion advanced.

[0075] As shown in FIGS. 16 to 19, the transport unit 400 includes a housing 410, a motor 420, a pair of rotating shafts 430, a pair of support arms 440, a claw portion 450, a push plate 460, and a code reader 470. The claw portion 450, the push plate 460, and the code reader 470 are configured to be movable together in the front-rear direction inside the housing 410. Specifically, the claw portion 450, the push plate 460, and the code reader 470 are configured to be movable in the front-rear direction by a feed screw mechanism.

[0076] The housing 410 has an open front lower portion and a lower side so as to accommodate and support the selection case 300a. The housing 410 is connected to a connection attachment 630 of the vertical movement mechanism 600 in order to make the transport unit 400 drivable by the horizontal movement mechanism 500 and the vertical movement mechanism 600.

[0077] The motor 420 is fixed to the housing 410. The motor 420 drives a pair of rotating shafts 430. Each of the pair of rotating shafts 430 is rotatably attached one by one to the opposing inner surfaces of the lower portion of the housing 410. Each of the pair of rotating shafts 430 extends in the front-rear direction.

[0078] The pair of support arms 440 are attached one by one to the pair of rotating shafts 430. Each of the pair of support arms 440 rotates together with the rotating shaft 430 about the attached rotating shaft 430. Each of the pair of support arms 440 is configured to support the selection case 300a by supporting the step portion 312 of the selection case 300a from below.

[0079] The claw portion 450 is configured to be engageable with the inner surface of the engaging portion 318 of the selection case 300a. The claw portion 450 is supported so as to be rotatable in the vertical direction.

[0080] The pressing plate 460 is configured to be abutted against the outer surface of the engaging portion 318 of the selection case 300a. The pressing plate 460 is located above the claw portion 450.

[0081] The code reader 470 is configured to be able to read the identification code 350 attached to the selection case 300a. The code reader 470 is located behind the pressing plate 460.

[0082] FIG. 20 is a perspective view showing a state in which the conveying unit is located behind the selection case stored in the case rack. FIG. 21 is a partial cross-sectional view of the state of FIG. 20 as viewed from the side.

[0083] Here, the configuration of the shelf portion 220 of the case rack 200 will be described. As shown in FIGS. 20 and 21, a stopper 223 is provided on the shelf portion 220 of the case rack 200. The stopper 223 regulates the front-rear positions of each of the plurality of cases 300 when each of the plurality of cases 300 is inserted into the case rack 200 from the front. Moreover, the stopper 223 allows the front-rear movement of each of the plurality of cases 300 when each of the plurality of cases 300 is taken in and out of the case rack 200 from the rear.

[0084] Specifically, the shelf portion 220 is provided with a plurality of guide walls 221 that define the positions of the cases 300 in the left-right direction when the case 300 is inserted into the case rack 200 from the front. The case 300 is inserted between the guide walls 221.

[0085] A pair of openings 222 are formed at intervals in the left - right direction on the rear side of the shelf plate portion 220. Two stoppers 223 are arranged so as to protrude from each of the pair of openings 222. Each of the two stoppers 223 can change between a state of protruding from the opening 222 and a state of not protruding from the opening 222, and is biased by a spring in the direction of protruding from the opening 222.

[0086] When the case 300 is inserted into the case rack 200 from the front, the front wall surface 314f of the recess 314 formed in the bottom 310b of the case body 310 abuts against the stopper 223, whereby the case 300 is positioned in the front - rear direction.

[0087] When the case 300 is inserted into and removed from the case rack 200 from the rear, the stopper 223 is pressed from above against the bottom 310b of the case 300, so that it is in a state of not protruding from the opening 222. When the stopper 223 is in a state of not protruding from the opening 222, the movement of the case 300 in the front - rear direction is allowed.

[0088] Here, the operation when the transport unit 400 accommodates and supports the selected case 300a from the case rack 200 will be described. The transport unit 400 moves to the rear side of the case rack 200 with the claw portion 450 retracted and stops at a position behind the selected case 300a. As shown in FIGS. 20 and 21, when the claw portion 450 advances, the claw portion 450 is positioned below the engaging portion 318 of the selected case 300a.

[0089] FIG. 22 is a partial cross - sectional view taken from the side of a state in which the claw portion rotates upward in the transport unit located behind the selected case stored in the case rack. As shown in FIG. 22, when the claw portion 450 rotates upward, the claw portion 450 engages with the inner surface of the engaging portion 318 of the selected case 300a.

[0090] When the transport unit 400 rises slightly with the claw portion 450 engaged with the inner surface of the engagement portion 318 of the selection case 300a, as shown in FIG. 22, the rear side of the selection case 300a is lifted, and the engagement between the recess 314 of the selection case 300a and the stopper 223 is released. Note that the rear side of the selection case 300a may be configured to be lifted by rotating the claw portion 450 so as to rise, and the engagement between the recess 314 of the selection case 300a and the stopper 223 may be released. Further, the stopper 223 may be configured to retract from the recess 314 of the selection case 300a.

[0091] FIG. 23 is a partial cross-sectional view showing a state in which the claw portion engaged with the inner surface of the engagement portion of the selection case has retracted. As shown in FIG. 23, when the feed screw mechanism 480 is driven and the claw portion 450 engaged with the inner surface of the engagement portion 318 of the selection case 300a retracts, the selection case 300a is pulled backward while sliding on the shelf plate portion 220. At this time, the stopper 223 is pressed from above against the bottom portion 310b of the selection case 300a and is in a state of not protruding from the opening 222.

[0092] In this way, when the transport unit 400 pulls out the selection case 300a stored in the case rack 200 to the rear of the case rack 200, the transport unit 400 lifts the rear side of the selection case 300a so that the selection case 300a can pass over the stopper 223.

[0093] FIG. 24 is a perspective view of the transport unit in a state where the claw portion engaged with the inner surface of the engagement portion of the selection case has finished retracting, as viewed from the front. FIG. 25 is a perspective view of the transport unit of FIG. 24 as viewed from the direction of arrow XXV.

[0094] When the transport unit 400 pulls out the selection case 300a stored in the case rack 200 to the rear of the case rack 200, each of the pair of support arms 440 is positioned at the support position.

[0095] As shown in FIGS. 24 and 25, in the transport unit 400 in a state where the claw portion 450 that has engaged with the inner surface of the engaging portion 318 of the selection case 300a has finished retracting, each of the pair of support arms 440 is located at a support position and supports the stepped portion 312 of the selection case 300a from below. Thereby, the transport unit 400 houses and supports the selection case 300a. The transport unit 400 that houses and supports the selection case 300a moves to a position above the placement unit 130 and descends until the supported selection case 300a is located directly above the base portion 131 of the placement unit 130.

[0096] FIG. 26 is a front view of the state where the pair of support arms are located at the retracted positions as viewed from the front. FIG. 27 is a side view of the state where the pair of support arms in FIG. 26 are located at the retracted positions as viewed from the direction of arrow XXVII.

[0097] When the selection case 300a is located directly above the base portion 131 of the placement unit 130, as shown in FIGS. 26 and 27, the pair of rotation shafts 430 are driven by the motor 420. Thereby, each of the pair of support arms 440 rotates about the attached rotation shaft 430 together with the rotation shaft 430 and moves to a retracted position below the pair of rotation shafts 430. Thereby, the selection case 300a is placed on the placement unit 130.

[0098] Here, the configurations of each of the horizontal movement mechanism 500 that horizontally moves the transport unit 400 and the vertical movement mechanism 600 that vertically moves the transport unit 400 will be described.

[0099] FIG. 28 is a perspective view showing the configurations of the horizontal movement mechanism and the vertical movement mechanism. FIG. 29 is a partial perspective view of the state where the transport unit is located near the boundary between the case rack and the dispensing table unit as viewed from the rear side. FIG. 30 is a partial side view of the state in FIG. 29 as viewed from the direction of arrow XXX. FIG. 31 is a partial side view of the horizontal movement mechanism in FIG. 28 as viewed from the direction of arrow XXXI.

[0100] As shown in FIGS. 28 to 31, the horizontal movement mechanism 500 includes a movable base 590, a motor 510, a lower pinion 520, an upper pinion 521, a lower rack 530, an upper rack 531, a lower rail 540, an upper rail 541, a pair of lower rollers 550, a pair of upper rollers 551, a movable horizontal dog 560, a fixed horizontal dog 570, and a connecting shaft 580.

[0101] The movable base 590 is configured to be movable in the left - right direction. Specifically, the movable base 590 is connected to each of a pair of lower rollers 550 and a pair of upper rollers 551. The pair of lower rollers 550 are arranged to roll - contact with a lower rail 540 extending in the left - right direction. The pair of upper rollers 551 are arranged to roll - contact with an upper rail 541 extending in the left - right direction.

[0102] A motor 510 is fixed to the lower part of the movable base 590. The output of the motor 510 is transmitted to the lower pinion 520. The lower pinion 520 is engaged with a lower rack 530 extending in the left - right direction. As the lower pinion 520 rotates while meshing with the lower rack 530 by the output of the motor 510, the movable base 590 moves in the left - right direction.

[0103] The lower pinion 520 is connected to the upper pinion 521 through a connecting shaft 580 extending in the up - down direction. The upper pinion 521 is engaged with an upper rack 531 extending in the left - right direction. As the upper pinion 521 rotates while meshing with the upper rack 531 together with the lower pinion 520, the movable base 590 can move horizontally in a state of standing vertically without tilting. In the present embodiment, the horizontal movement mechanism 500 is composed of a rack - pinion mechanism, but is not limited thereto, and may be composed of a winding transmission mechanism such as a belt or a chain.

[0104] The case rack 200 is provided with a first horizontal position detection sensor 50 for detecting that the movable base 590 is located at the origin position in the left - right direction, and a second horizontal position detection sensor 51 for detecting that the movable base 590 is located at the initial position in the left - right direction. The dispensing unit 100 is provided with a third horizontal position detection sensor 52 for detecting that the movable base 590 is located at the terminal position in the left - right direction. On the lower surface of the movable base 590, a fourth horizontal position detection sensor 53 is arranged for detecting that the movable base 590 is located inside the dispensing unit 100.

[0105] Each of the first horizontal position detection sensor 50, the second horizontal position detection sensor 51, the third horizontal position detection sensor 52, and the fourth horizontal position detection sensor 53 is a micro - photo sensor, but is not limited thereto, and may be, for example, a limit switch or the like. Each of the first horizontal position detection sensor 50, the second horizontal position detection sensor 51, the third horizontal position detection sensor 52, and the fourth horizontal position detection sensor 53 is electrically connected to the control unit.

[0106] The first horizontal position detection sensor 50 detects that the movable base 590 is located at the origin position in the left - right direction by detecting a movable horizontal dog 560 fixed to the lower surface of the movable base 590.

[0107] The second horizontal position detection sensor 51 detects that the movable base 590 is located at the initial position in the left - right direction by detecting the movable horizontal dog 560. The initial position is a position several centimeters to the right of the origin position of the movable base 590. The movable base 590 moving towards the origin position in the left - right direction moves at high speed until it reaches the initial position in the left - right direction, and decelerates after passing the initial position, so that the time to reach the origin position can be shortened. The second horizontal position detection sensor 51 does not necessarily have to be provided.

[0108] The third horizontal position detection sensor 52 detects that the movable base 590 is located at the terminal position in the left - right direction by detecting the movable horizontal dog 560. The third horizontal position detection sensor 52 does not necessarily have to be provided.

[0109] The fourth horizontal position detection sensor 53 detects that the movable base 590 is located inside the dispensing unit 100 by detecting the fixed horizontal dog 570 arranged over the entire length of the dispensing unit 100 in the left - right direction.

[0110] The vertical movement mechanism 600 includes a motor 610, a belt 620, a connection attachment 630, a linear guide 640, and a movable vertical dog 631. Each of the motor 610, the belt 620, the connection attachment 630, and the linear guide 640 is mounted on the movable base 590.

[0111] Specifically, the motor 610 is fixed to the lower part of the movable base 590. The output of the motor 610 is transmitted to the belt 620 to rotationally drive the belt 620. The belt 620 is wound around a pair of pulleys arranged apart in the vertical direction. The connection attachment 630 is fixed to the belt 620. The connection attachment 630 engages with the linear guide 640 extending in the vertical direction. When the belt 620 is rotationally driven, the connection attachment 630 moves in the vertical direction along the linear guide 640. The movable vertical dog 631 is formed by bending a part of the connection attachment 630. The movable vertical dog 631 moves in the vertical direction together with the connection attachment 630.

[0112] As described above, the connection attachment 630 is connected to the housing 410 of the transport unit 400. Thus, the transport unit 400 is configured to be movable in the vertical direction by the vertical movement mechanism 600. Also, the transport unit 400 is configured to be movable in the left - right direction along with the movement of the movable base 590 by the horizontal movement mechanism 500.

[0113] FIG. 32 is a side view of the state where the transport unit is positioned above the placement unit, as viewed from the side. FIG. 33 is a side view showing an enlarged view of part XXXIII in FIG. 32. FIG. 34 is a partial perspective view of the state where the transport unit is positioned behind a case placed on a shelf plate portion at the uppermost part of the case rack, as viewed from above.

[0114] As shown in FIGS. 32 and 33, when the transport unit 400 is positioned above the placement unit 130, the transport unit 400 can move only in the left - right direction within the passable region of length L shown in FIG. 33. Specifically, below the passable region, since the selected case 300a on the placement unit 130 and the transport unit 400 interfere with each other, the transport unit 400 cannot move in the left - right direction. Above the passable region, since the housing 110 of the dispensing unit 100 and the transport unit 400 interfere with each other, the transport unit 400 cannot move in the left - right direction.

[0115] As shown in FIGS. 32 to 34, a first vertical position detection sensor 60, a second vertical position detection sensor 61, a third vertical position detection sensor 62, a fourth vertical position detection sensor 63, and a fifth vertical position detection sensor 64 are arranged on the movable base 590.

[0116] Each of the first vertical position detection sensor 60, the second vertical position detection sensor 61, the third vertical position detection sensor 62, the fourth vertical position detection sensor 63, and the fifth vertical position detection sensor 64 is a micro - photo sensor, but is not limited thereto, and may be, for example, a limit switch or the like. Each of the first vertical position detection sensor 60, the second vertical position detection sensor 61, the third vertical position detection sensor 62, the fourth vertical position detection sensor 63, and the fifth vertical position detection sensor 64 is electrically connected to the control unit.

[0117] The first vertical position detection sensor 60 detects that the transport unit 400 is located at the vertical origin position by detecting the movable vertical dog 631.

[0118] The second vertical position detection sensor 61 detects that the transport unit 400 is positioned below the upper limit within the passable area by detecting the movable vertical dog 631.

[0119] The third vertical position detection sensor 62 detects that the transport unit 400 is positioned above the lower limit within the passable area by detecting the movable vertical dog 631.

[0120] The transport unit 400 is configured to be movable in the left - right direction only when each of the second vertical position detection sensor 61 and the third vertical position detection sensor 62 detects the movable vertical dog 631. That is, it is configured to be movable in the left - right direction only when it is detected that the transport unit 400 is positioned within the passable area.

[0121] The fourth vertical position detection sensor 63 detects that the transport unit 400 has reached the upper limit of a position where it does not interfere with the ceiling portion 219 of the case rack 200 shown in FIG. 34 by detecting the movable vertical dog 631. The transport unit 400 is configured such that it cannot move in the left - right direction to pass through the ceiling portion 219 of the case rack 200 when the fourth vertical position detection sensor 63 detects the movable vertical dog 631.

[0122] The fifth vertical position detection sensor 64 detects that the transport unit 400 is positioned at the terminal position in the up - down direction by detecting the movable vertical dog 631.

[0123] Here, in the drug supply device 1 according to the present embodiment, an operation for taking out or replenishing drugs will be described. The drug supply device 1 according to the present embodiment can switch between a first mode and a second mode. In the first mode, drugs can be taken out or replenished in front of the dispensing table unit 100. In the second mode, drugs can be taken out or replenished in front of the case rack 200.

[0124] First, in the drug supply device 1 according to the present embodiment, the operation for taking out or replenishing drugs in front of the dispensing table unit 100 will be described. FIG. 35 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a control circuit included in the drug supply device according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 35, the drug supply device 1 includes a control unit 90.

[0125] When the first mode is selected on the touch panel 170, the case storing the drug to be taken out or the case to be replenished with the drug is selected as the selected case from among the plurality of cases stored in the case rack 200 based on the information stored in the control unit 90.

[0126] The control unit 90 operates the horizontal movement mechanism 500 and the vertical movement mechanism 600 to position the transport unit 400 behind the selected case 300a stored in the case rack 200 as shown in FIG. 20.

[0127] After the control unit 90 accommodates and supports the selected case 300a in the transport unit 400, it operates the horizontal movement mechanism 500 and the vertical movement mechanism 600 to position the transport unit 400 above the placement unit 130 as shown in FIG. 6.

[0128] The transport unit 400 positioned above the placement unit 130 descends until the supported selected case 300a is positioned directly above the base portion 131 of the placement unit 130. Thereafter, the pair of support arms 440 rotate to release the support of the selected case 300a, and a part of the bottom portion 130b of the selected case 300a is placed on the base portion 131. In that state, as the push plate 460 advances while pressing the outer surface of the engaging portion 318 of the selected case 300a, the front end of the selected case 300a abuts against the wall surface portion 132 of the placement unit 130, and the selected case 300a is placed on the base portion 131.

[0129] When the proximity sensor 10 detects that the selected case 300a is placed on the base portion 131, the display unit 160 corresponding to the placement unit 130 lights up, and the lock of the electromagnet 12 is released, enabling the placement unit 130 to be pulled out.

[0130] As shown in FIG. 15, in a state where the placement unit 130 is pulled out and tilted, the drug stored in the selection case 300a is taken out, or the drug is replenished into the selection case 300a.

[0131] When the position detection sensor 11 detects that the placement unit 130 has been returned into the dispensing unit 100 after the removal or replenishment of the drug is completed, the placement unit 130 is locked by the electromagnet 12. Thereafter, the selection case 300a placed on the placement unit 130 is conveyed by the conveyance unit 400 and returned to the original position of the case rack 200 stored in the control unit 90.

[0132] Next, in the drug supply device 1 according to the present embodiment, the operation for taking out or replenishing the drug in front of the case rack 200 will be described.

[0133] When the second mode is selected on the touch panel 170, the opening / closing door 240 is unlocked and the conveyance unit 400 is made immovable. In this state, an arbitrary case 300 among the plurality of cases 300 stored in the case rack 200 can be taken out from the front of the case rack 200 to take out the drug or replenish the drug.

[0134] The case 300 for which the removal or replenishment of the drug is completed is inserted into the case rack 200 from the front of the case rack 200. When the case 300 is taken in and out in this way, the case 300 is not necessarily returned to the original position of the case rack 200. Therefore, before operating in the first mode, it is necessary to let the control unit 90 grasp the arrangement of each of the plurality of cases 300 in the case rack 200.

[0135] Therefore, in the drug supply device 1 according to the present embodiment, the transport unit 400 moves on the rear side of the case rack 200, and the code reader 470 reads the identification code 350 of each of the plurality of cases 300, so that the storage positions of the plurality of cases 300 in the case rack 200 are grasped. At this time, the code reader 470 is positioned at a position advanced to such an extent that it does not interfere with the case 300.

[0136] The grasped storage positions of the plurality of cases 300 are stored in the control unit 90, and based on this stored information, the selected case 300a is transported during the first mode operation.

[0137] Note that the method of grasping the storage positions of the plurality of cases 300 is not limited to the above, and a method using a so-called Chameleon Code (registered trademark) may also be used. FIG. 36 is a rear view of a drug supply device according to a modified example.

[0138] As shown in FIG. 36, in the drug supply device according to the modified example, an identification code 350a is attached to the rear surface of each of the plurality of cases 300. The identification code 350a is a Chameleon Code (registered trademark). An imaging unit 290 capable of imaging the identification code 350a of each of the plurality of cases 300 is provided on the rear side of the case rack 200. If all the cases 300 accommodated in the case rack 200 cannot be imaged by one imaging unit 290, a plurality of imaging units 290 may be provided. Based on the image captured by the imaging unit 290, the storage positions of the plurality of cases 300 in the case rack 200 are grasped. The control unit 90 can simultaneously grasp the storage positions of the plurality of cases 300 in the case rack 200 by analyzing the image captured by the imaging unit 290.

[0139] In the drug supply device according to the modified example, since the storage positions of the plurality of cases 300 can be grasped without scanning the transport unit 400, the switching time between the second mode and the first mode can be shortened.

[0140] In the drug supply device according to this embodiment, the selection case 300a placed on the placement unit 130 is located on the rear side compared to each of the plurality of cases 300 stored in the case rack 200. Thereby, the occupied space in the front-rear direction of the drug supply device can be reduced.

[0141] In the drug supply device according to this embodiment, a part of the dispensing table 120 is located below the placement unit 130. Thereby, the occupied space in the front-rear direction of the drug supply device can be reduced.

[0142] In the drug supply device according to this embodiment, when the conveyance unit 400 moves in the left-right direction inside the dispensing table unit 100, it overlaps with the placement unit 130 when viewed from the up-down direction. Thereby, the occupied space in the front-rear direction of the drug supply device can be reduced.

[0143] In the drug supply device according to this embodiment, the dispensing table 120 is located on the rear side of the position of the front end of the case rack 200 when viewed from the left-right direction. Thereby, the occupied space in the front-rear direction of the drug supply device can be reduced.

[0144] In the drug supply device according to this embodiment, the placement unit 130 is drawable in the front-rear direction with respect to the housing 110. Thereby, drugs can be easily taken in and out from the selection case 300a placed on the placement unit 130.

[0145] In the drug supply device according to this embodiment, the position of the front end of the placement unit 130 in the state where it is drawn out and located at the most forward position is located behind the front end of the dispensing table 120. Thereby, the occupied space in the front-rear direction of the drug supply device can be reduced.

[0146] In the dispensing table unit 100 of the drug supply device according to this embodiment, a storage space is formed at at least one of a position below the dispensing table 120 and a position above the placement unit 130. Thereby, various drugs and the like can be easily collected while standing in front of the dispensing table 120.

[0147] In the drug supply device according to this embodiment, the case rack 200 is configured such that a plurality of cases 300 can be taken in and out from the front of the case rack 200. Thereby, in the drug supply device, it is possible to select a first mode in which the case 300 containing the drug is automatically taken in and out from the rear of the device, and a second mode in which the case 300 can be manually taken in and out from the front of the device.

[0148] In the drug supply device according to this embodiment, the case rack 200 is provided with a stopper 223 that regulates the front-rear position of each of the plurality of cases 300 when each of the plurality of cases 300 is inserted into the case rack 200 from the front. Thereby, even when the case 300 is manually inserted into the case rack 200, the case 300 can be arranged at a specified position, so that the case 300 can be automatically conveyed using the conveyance unit 400.

[0149] In the drug supply device according to this embodiment, when the conveyance unit 400 pulls out the selected case 300a stored in the case rack 200 to the rear of the case rack 200, the conveyance unit 400 lifts the rear side of the selected case 300a so that the selected case 300a can pass over the stopper 223. Thereby, the selected case 300a can be pulled out and conveyed rearward by the conveyance unit 400 without interfering with the stopper 223.

[0150] In the drug supply device according to this embodiment, the case rack 200 has an opening / closing door 240 at the front. The case rack 200 is configured such that a plurality of cases 300 can be taken in and out from the front of the case rack 200 when the opening / closing door 240 is unlocked and open, and the transport unit 400 is configured to be movable only when the opening / closing door 240 is closed and locked. Thereby, during the second mode, it is possible to suppress the arrangement positions of the plurality of cases 300 from being changed and the transport unit 400 from transporting the wrong selected case 300a.

[0151] In the drug supply device according to this embodiment, the transport unit 400 moves on the rear side of the case rack 200, and the code reader 470 scans the identification code 350 of each of the plurality of cases 300, so that the storage positions of the plurality of cases 300 in the case rack 200 are grasped. Thereby, it is possible to grasp the storage positions of the plurality of cases 300 taken in and out in the second mode and switch to the first mode.

[0152] In the drug supply device according to this embodiment, the placement unit 130 is inclined such that the front end of the placement unit 130 is located below the rear end of the placement unit 130 when the placement unit 130 is pulled out and located at the most forward position. Thereby, when taking out the drug from the selected case 300a placed on the placement unit 130, the visibility of the drug can be improved and the drug can be easily taken out.

[0153] In the housing 110 of the dispensing table unit 100 of the drug supply device according to this embodiment, a contact portion 115 is formed that contacts from above the portion on the rear side of the selected case 300a placed on the placement unit 130 in the state where the placement unit 130 is pulled out and located at the most forward position. Thereby, it is possible to suppress the selected case 300a placed on the placement unit 130 from falling off the placement unit 130.

[0154] In the drug supply device according to this embodiment, the placement unit 130 includes a base unit 131 on which the selection case 300a is placed, and a wall surface unit 132 attached to the front end of the base unit 131. On the upper part of the rear surface of the wall surface unit 132, a protruding portion 132d that engages with the upper surface of the front end of the selection case 300a is formed. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the selection case 300a placed on the placement unit 130 from falling off the placement unit 130.

[0155] In the drug supply device according to this embodiment, the dispensing table unit 100 is provided with a roller 114 that serves as a fulcrum when the placement unit 130 rotates and tilts while rolling in contact with the base unit 131 while the placement unit 130 is being pulled out. Thereby, the pulled-out placement unit 130 can be rotated and tilted.

[0156] Note that the above-described embodiments disclosed this time are illustrative in all respects and do not serve as a basis for a limiting interpretation. Therefore, the technical scope of the present invention is not interpreted only by the above-described embodiments, but is defined based on the description in the claims. Also, all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims are included.

Description of Reference Numerals

[0157] 1 Medicine supply device, 10 Proximity sensor, 11 Position detection sensor, 12 Electromagnet, 50 First horizontal position detection sensor, 51 Second horizontal position detection sensor, 52 Third horizontal position detection sensor, 53 Fourth horizontal position detection sensor, 60 First vertical position detection sensor, 61 Second vertical position detection sensor, 62 Third vertical position detection sensor, 63 Fourth vertical position detection sensor, 64 Fifth vertical position detection sensor, 90 Control unit, 100 Dispensing table unit, 110, 210, 410 Housing, 111, 131h, 132b, 222 Opening, 112 Storage space, 113 Guide rail, 114, 131r Roller, 115 Contact part, 120 Dispensing table, 130 Placing part, 130b, 310b Bottom, 131 Base part, 131a Dog, 131p Adsorbed part, 132 Wall surface part, 132c, 321 Protrusion, 132d, 313 Projection part, 133 Transparent plate, 134 Stop ring, 140 Lower storage space, 150 Upper storage space, 160 Display part, 161 Indicator light, 170 Touch panel, 180, 470 Code reader, 190 Printer, 200 Case rack, 219 Ceiling part, 220 Shelf board part, 221 Guide wall, 223 Stopper, 230 Drawer, 240 Opening / closing door, 290 Imaging part, 300 Case, 300a Selection case, 310 Case body, 310f Front wall part, 310r Rear wall part, 310s Side wall part, 311 Transparent support part, 312 Step part, 314 Recess, 314f Front wall surface, 314s Side wall surface, 315, 316 Groove part, 317 Slit, 318 Engaging part, 320 Fraction storage part, 330 Partition board, 340, 350, 350a Identification code, 400 Conveying unit, 420, 510, 610 Motor, 430 Rotating shaft, 440 Support arm, 450 Claw part, 460 Pushing plate, 480 Screw mechanism, 500 Horizontal movement mechanism, 520 Lower pinion, 521 Upper pinion, 530 Lower rack, 531 Upper rack, 540 Lower rail, 541 Upper rail, 550 Lower roller, 551 Upper roller, 560 Movable horizontal dog, 570 Fixed horizontal dog, 580 Connecting shaft, 590 Movable base, 600 Vertical movement mechanism, 620 Belt, 630 Connection attachment, 631 Movable vertical dog, 640 Linear guide.

Claims

1. a case rack for storing a plurality of cases in which medicines are contained; a dispensing table unit having a placement section on which a selected case selected from the plurality of cases can be placed, and a dispensing table located below the placement section; a transport unit configured to transport the selected case between the case rack and the placement unit, A medicine supplying device, wherein a portion of the medicine dispensing table is located below the placement portion.

2. The medicine supply device according to claim 1 , wherein a rear portion of the preparation table is located directly below the placement portion.

3. The medicine supply device according to claim 2 , wherein an accommodation space is formed between the preparation table and the placement portion.

4. The medicine supply device according to claim 3 , wherein a tray for accommodating medicines can be inserted into the accommodation space from the front.

5. The placement portion is removable in the front-rear direction, The medicine supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein a front end of the placement portion when pulled out and positioned furthest forward is located behind a front end of the preparation table.

Images