Tablet processing apparatus, main tablet processing unit, and sub-tablet processing unit

Abstract

An object of the present invention is to provide a tablet processing apparatus, a main tablet processing unit, and a sub tablet processing unit that improve manufacturing efficiency and are easily introduced with few restrictions at the time of carrying-in.SOLUTION: The tablet processing device 1 includes a main tablet processing unit 2 and a sub-tablet processing unit 3, and a main frame 4 and a sub-frame 5 are separately configured so that a main tablet processing space R1 where main tablet processing is performed and a sub-tablet processing space R2 where sub-tablet processing is performed are separated.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an apparatus for inspecting and printing on conveyed tablets. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, devices for inspecting and printing tablets have been provided. To improve production efficiency, devices for inspecting and printing tablets include devices that transport tablets in multiple rows on a single transport path (multi-row devices) and devices that have multiple (e.g., two) transport paths within the device and transport tablets in parallel on the multiple transport paths (multi-line devices). For example, Patent Document 1 listed below discloses a tablet printing inspection device with two lines. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2020-192080 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, multi-row and multi-line devices are large and heavy overall. In particular, the depth of the device is large, making it difficult to load onto an elevator or the like, or the width of the door to the room into which the device is to be delivered is smaller than the depth of the device, making delivery difficult. Therefore, conventional multi-row and multi-line devices have many delivery restrictions, such as the need to install new facilities such as entrances and exits due to limitations on the size of the building's facilities (e.g., elevators) and room entrances, or the need to use other methods to deliver the device without using an elevator. Furthermore, such limitations can sometimes force manufacturers to abandon the introduction of multi-row and multi-line devices. On the other hand, there is a strong demand for parallel tablet inspection on multiple lines, etc., in order to improve manufacturing efficiency.

[0005] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a tablet processing device, a main tablet processing unit, and a sub-tablet processing unit that can improve manufacturing efficiency and that are easy to install with few restrictions on loading. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] Here, the inventors of the present invention have considered configurations that can solve the above-mentioned problems, and have come to the conclusion that if multiple lines are set up on which a series of tablet processing operations such as tablet inspection and printing are carried out, and the frames that support the multiple devices (inspection devices, printing devices, conveying devices, etc.) that make up one line are configured separately for each line, the units for each line can be separated, and tablet printing, inspection, and other operations can be carried out on two lines, improving manufacturing efficiency, and there are fewer restrictions on delivery, making it easier to introduce equipment.

[0007] (1) The tablet processing device of the present invention, provided based on the above findings, is a tablet processing device that inspects and / or prints tablets on a conveying path along which the tablets are transported, and includes a main tablet processing unit and a sub-tablet processing unit. The main tablet processing unit supplies the tablets received from outside and includes a plurality of processing devices configured to perform main tablet processing, which is a series of tablet processing including aligning the supplied tablets and inspecting and / or printing the tablets while transporting them on the conveying path in a line, and a main frame that supports the plurality of processing devices in an arrangement for performing the main tablet processing. The sub-tablet processing unit includes a plurality of processing devices configured to perform sub-tablet processing, which is a series of tablet processing for the tablets supplied from the main tablet processing unit, including aligning the supplied tablets and inspecting and / or printing the tablets while transporting them on the conveying path in a line, and a sub-frame that supports the plurality of processing devices in an arrangement for performing the sub-tablet processing. The main frame and the sub-frame are configured separately so that a main tablet processing space where the main tablet processing is performed and a sub-tablet processing space where the sub-tablet processing is performed are separated.

[0008] The tablet processing device of the present invention can process tablets, such as inspecting and printing, on two lines: a line (first line) in the main tablet processing unit and a line (second line) in the sub-tablet processing unit, for tablets supplied from a supply device. This improves production efficiency compared to tablet processing on a single line. Furthermore, according to the tablet processing device of the present invention, the main tablet processing unit and the sub-tablet processing unit are configured with separate frames, allowing them to be separated and transported separately to their installation locations. Therefore, the tablet processing device of the present invention does not require special transport methods and can be transported via standard access routes (e.g., elevators or standard-sized doors) installed in buildings, allowing the device to be transported without restrictions on access routes or access locations. As a result, the tablet processing device of the present invention improves production efficiency and has fewer restrictions on access, making it easier to install.

[0009] (2) In the tablet processing device of the present invention, the main frame and the sub-frame are configured separately to separate the main tablet processing space where the main tablet processing is carried out and the conveying path is arranged along the boundary between the main frame and the sub-frame in a planar view of the tablet processing device, and the sub-tablet processing space where the sub-tablet processing is carried out and the conveying path is arranged along the boundary in a planar view of the tablet processing device, and it is preferable that the tablets in the main tablet processing space and the tablets in the sub-tablet processing space are transported in parallel.

[0010] According to the above-described configuration, the conveying path of the main tablet processing unit and the conveying path of the sub-tablet processing unit are configured along the boundary between the main frame and the sub-frame, so that the dimensions of the main tablet processing unit and the sub-tablet processing unit in the depth direction (the direction intersecting the direction in which the conveying path extends) can be reduced. Therefore, the tablet processing device of the present invention further reduces the restrictions on the size of the opening when being carried in, making it easier to carry in to the installation location. As a result, the tablet processing device of the present invention not only improves production efficiency, but also has fewer restrictions on carrying in, making it easier to introduce the device.

[0011] (3) In the tablet processing device of the present invention, the main tablet processing unit is provided with a main control device that controls the main tablet processing and the sub-tablet processing, and if the sub-tablet processing unit is provided with a sub-controller that controls the sub-tablet processing, the main control device controls the sub-tablet processing via the sub-controller.

[0012] According to the above-mentioned configuration, both the main tablet processing and the sub-tablet processing can be flexibly controlled in response to abnormalities, etc. As a result, the tablet processing device of the present invention further improves production efficiency and has fewer restrictions on loading, making it easier to introduce the device.

[0013] (4) In the tablet processing device of the present invention, the main control device controls the sub-tablet processing unit to perform the main tablet processing and the sub-tablet processing when the sub-tablet processing unit is connected so that it can both receive tablets from the main tablet processing unit and communicate with the main control device, while controlling the sub-tablet processing unit to perform the main tablet processing and not to perform the sub-tablet processing when it is unable to receive at least one of receiving tablets from the main tablet processing unit and communicating with the main control device.

[0014] According to the above-described configuration, the device can be operated even when only the main tablet processing unit is installed. Therefore, the tablet processing device of the present invention can flexibly accommodate line expansion, such as by installing only the main tablet processing unit (only one line) and later adding (retrofitting) sub-tablet processing units as needed to increase the production line. As a result, the tablet processing device of the present invention improves production efficiency, has fewer restrictions on loading, and is easier to install.

[0015] (5) In the tablet processing device of the present invention, the main control device may be configured to, when an abnormality occurs in any of the multiple processing devices included in the main tablet processing unit and the sub tablet processing unit, stop the tablet processing of the tablet processing unit including the processing device in which the abnormality occurred, and control the other unit to continue the tablet processing.

[0016] According to the above-described configuration, even if an abnormality is detected in one of the two lines, the main tablet processing line and the sub-tablet processing line, the other line can continue operation. Therefore, the tablet processing device of the present invention avoids the waste of tablets due to the continuation of production on the line where the abnormality occurred, and avoids the halt of all operations due to the continuation of operation on the other line, thereby enabling flexible response to the occurrence of an abnormality and contributing to stable operation. As a result, the tablet processing device of the present invention has fewer restrictions on loading, making it easier to introduce the device, and can contribute to both improved production efficiency and stable operation.

[0017] (6) The main tablet processing unit of the present invention is characterized by being used in the tablet processing device described in (1) or (2) above.

[0018] The main tablet processing unit of the present invention can be used as a main tablet processing unit for a tablet processing device capable of performing tablet processing such as tablet inspection and printing on two lines. Furthermore, with the main tablet processing unit of the present invention, for example, the main tablet processing unit can be installed first, and then a sub-tablet processing unit can be added as needed. Therefore, the main tablet processing unit of the present invention can flexibly accommodate an increase in the number of lines. As a result, the main tablet processing unit of the present invention not only improves production efficiency, but also has fewer restrictions on loading, allowing for flexible accommodation of an increase in the number of lines, making it even easier to install equipment.

[0019] (7) The tablet processing sub-unit of the present invention is characterized by being used in the tablet processing device described in (1) or (2) above.

[0020] The sub-tablet processing unit of the present invention can be used as a sub-tablet processing unit for a tablet processing device that can perform tablet processing such as tablet inspection and printing on two lines. Furthermore, with the sub-tablet processing unit of the present invention, for example, a main tablet processing unit can be installed first, and sub-tablet processing units can be added as needed. Therefore, the sub-tablet processing unit of the present invention can flexibly accommodate an increase in the number of lines. As a result, the sub-tablet processing unit of the present invention not only improves production efficiency, but also has fewer restrictions on installation, allowing for flexible accommodation of an increase in the number of lines, making it even easier to install equipment. [Effects of the Invention]

[0021] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a tablet processing device, a main tablet processing unit, and a sub-tablet processing unit that can improve manufacturing efficiency and that are easy to install with few restrictions on loading. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0022] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view showing the appearance of a tablet processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2]FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a main frame and a sub-frame of the tablet processing device of FIG. 1. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a schematic plan view of the tablet processing device of FIG. 1. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing a supply device and a line unit of the tablet processing device of FIG. 1. [Figure 5] 2A and 2B are diagrams showing a part of the conveying path of the tablet processing device of FIG. 1, where (a) is a plan view and (b) is a front view. [Figure 6] 2 is a schematic diagram showing a negative pressure chamber and a negative pressure device provided in a conveying device of the tablet processing device of FIG. 1. FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a main control device and a sub-control device of the tablet processing device of FIG. 1. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a modified example of the main control device of the tablet processing device of FIG. 1. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0023] <Overall configuration of tablet processing equipment> Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig. 1 is a perspective view showing the appearance of a tablet processing device 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The tablet processing device 1 performs tablet processing including inspection and printing of tablets T on a conveying path C along which tablets T are conveyed.

[0024] As shown in Fig. 1, the tablet processing apparatus 1 has a main tablet processing unit 2 and a sub-tablet processing unit 3. As shown in Fig. 1, the main tablet processing unit 2 has a main housing 2a, and the sub-tablet processing unit 3 has a sub-housing 3a. In addition, as shown in Fig. 3, the tablet processing apparatus 1 has a negative pressure device 60 and a center chamber 65.

[0025] The tablet processing device 1 can perform tablet processing such as printing and inspection of tablets T in parallel on two lines: a line (first line) that performs tablet processing within the main tablet processing unit 2, and a line (second line) that performs tablet processing within the sub-tablet processing unit 3.

[0026] In this specification, the term "tablet" refers to a solid preparation having a predetermined shape. In addition, the solid preparation in this specification may or may not be classified as a pharmaceutical product.

[0027] Furthermore, "inspection" in this specification includes inspection to identify the printing position on the tablet, and inspection (visual inspection) to check for any abnormalities in the appearance of the tablet, such as chipped tablets, mixed-in tablets, or the presence of foreign matter.

[0028] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the tablet processing device 1 is described as performing tablet processing such as printing and inspection on tablets T, but the tablet processing device of the present invention may be used for printing and inspection on capsules, etc., in addition to printing and inspection on tablets. In other words, the tablet processing device of the present invention does not have to be used exclusively for tablets.

[0029] In this specification, the up-down direction when the tablet processing device 1 is installed may be referred to simply as the "up-down direction H". Furthermore, in the up-down direction H, the upper side may be referred to simply as the "upper side H1", and the lower side may be referred to simply as the "lower side H2". In this specification, the depth direction of the tablet processing device 1 when it is installed may be referred to as the "front-to-back direction X". Furthermore, in the front-to-back direction X, the direction toward the front of the tablet processing device 1 may be referred to as the "forward side X1", and the direction toward the back side may be referred to as the "rear side X2". In this specification, the width direction (left-to-right direction) of the tablet processing device 1 when it is installed may be referred to as the "width direction Y".

[0030] In this specification, the case where the tablet processing device 1 is viewed from the rear X2 will be referred to as a "front view." Also, in this specification, the case where the tablet processing device 1 is viewed from the bottom H2 will be referred to as a "plan view."

[0031] <Main tablet processing unit> As shown in FIG. 3, the main tablet processing unit 2 includes a main frame 4, an operation panel 9, a supply device 10, a first line unit 20a (line unit 20), and a main control device .

[0032] The main frame 4 supports a plurality of processing devices 21 constituting the line unit 20 in an arrangement that performs a series of tablet processes (main tablet processing) such as transporting, inspecting, and printing tablets T. That is, the main frame 4 forms a main tablet processing space R1 that accommodates the supply device 10 and a plurality of processing devices 21 constituting the line unit 20 described below (see FIG. 2).

[0033] The operation panel 9 accepts various operations by an operator for the tablet processing device 1. As shown in FIG.

[0034] The supply device 10 supplies tablets T received from outside to the line unit 20 (first line unit 20a) of the main tablet processing unit 2 and the line unit 20 (second line unit 20b) of the sub-tablet processing unit 3. As shown in FIG. 4, the supply device 10 is provided with a hopper 11 into which tablets T are fed. The supply device 10 is also provided with two vibrating feeders 12 that vibrate the tablets T fed into the hopper 11 and feed them to the alignment device 30. Specifically, the supply device 10 is provided with a first vibrating feeder 12a that feeds tablets T to the alignment device 30 of the main tablet processing unit 2, and a second vibrating feeder 12b that feeds tablets T to the alignment device 30 of the sub-tablet processing unit 3.

[0035] The line unit 20 includes a plurality of processing devices 21 configured to perform tablet processing, which is a series of tablet processing steps including aligning the supplied tablets T and inspecting and printing the tablets T while transporting the tablets T in a row on the transport path C. In other words, the line unit 20 can be said to form a line that performs tablet processing such as printing and inspection.

[0036] In the tablet processing device 1, a line unit 20 is also provided in the sub-tablet processing unit 3. In the following description, the line unit 20 provided in the main tablet processing unit 2 may be referred to as the "first line unit 20a," and the line unit 20 provided in the sub-tablet processing unit 3 may be referred to as the "second line unit 20b."

[0037] In this specification, the series of tablet processes carried out in the main tablet processing unit 2 may be referred to as "main tablet processing", and the series of tablet processes carried out in the sub-tablet processing unit 3 may be referred to as "sub-tablet processing". Furthermore, the series of tablet processes carried out in the main tablet processing unit 2 (main tablet processing) may be simply referred to as the "first line", and the series of tablet processes carried out in the sub-tablet processing unit 3 (sub-tablet processing) may be simply referred to as the "second line".

[0038] As shown in FIG. 4, in the tablet processing apparatus 1 of this embodiment, the line unit 20 includes an alignment device 30, a transport unit 40, an imaging device 50, a printing device 51, an inspection device 52, and a sorting and recovery device 53.

[0039] The aligning device 30 aligns the tablets T supplied from the supplying device 10 in a line and transfers them to the conveying unit 40.

[0040] The transport unit 40 transports tablets T. As shown in FIG. 4, the transport unit 40 is composed of a pair of transport devices 41. Specifically, the transport unit 40 includes a pair of transport devices, namely, a transport device 41A arranged upstream and a transport device 41B arranged downstream in the transport path of the tablets T. Each of the transport devices 41A and 41B is provided with an imaging device 50, a printing device 51, and an inspection device 52. The tablets T supplied from the alignment device 30 to the transport unit 40 are transported by the transport device 41A to an area (transfer area Ra) where the transport devices 41A and 41B overlap in the vertical direction H, and are transferred from the transport device 41A to the transport device 41B in the transfer area Ra. That is, it can be said that the transport devices 41 (transfer device 41A, transport device 41B) form upstream and downstream transport paths C, respectively, and the transport unit 40 forms the transport path C of the entire device (main tablet processing unit 2 or sub-tablet processing unit 3).

[0041] The conveying device 41A and the conveying device 41B have the same configuration except for the fact that they are in a state where the left and right sides are reversed and the positions where they are arranged. Therefore, in the following description, the conveying device 41A and the conveying device 41B may be collectively referred to simply as the "conveying device 41." Furthermore, the conveying direction of the tablets T by the conveying device 41 may be simply referred to as the "conveying direction D."

[0042] The conveying device 41 conveys the tablets T supplied from the alignment device 30. In other words, the conveying device 41 forms a conveying path C for conveying the tablets T from upstream to downstream while adsorbing the tablets T. Note that in this specification, the upstream side of the conveying path C for the tablets T may be simply referred to as "upstream," and the downstream side of the conveying path C for the tablets T may be simply referred to as "downstream."

[0043] As shown in FIG. 5(a), the conveying device 41 is equipped with two endless annular conveying belts 42. Also, as shown in FIG. 5(a), the conveying device 41 has a gap formed between the two conveying belts 42, which serves as a suction port 43. As shown in FIG. 5(a), in the tablet processing device 1 of this embodiment, the suction port 43 is formed in the shape of a slit as the gap formed between the two conveying belts 42. Furthermore, the conveying device 41 is equipped with a drive unit (not shown) that drives the conveying belts 42, and a negative pressure chamber 46 (see FIG. 3) that applies negative pressure to the suction port 43.

[0044] 4, the conveying device 41 is provided with a straight-traveling section 44 through which the tablet T is transported so as to travel straight, and an inverting section 45 that inverts the tablet T upside down. Inside the straight-traveling section 44, a straight-traveling negative pressure chamber 46a, which is a negative pressure chamber 46 for generating a suction force at the suction port 43 of the straight-traveling section 44, is provided. Inside the inverting section 45, a inverting negative pressure chamber 46b, which is a negative pressure chamber 46 for generating a suction force at the suction port 43 of the inverting section 45, is provided.

[0045] As shown in Fig. 4, the conveying device 41 uses the conveying belt 42 at the upper side H1 as the outgoing path and the conveying belt 42 at the lower side H2 as the return path, and conveys the tablets T by adsorbing them onto the conveying belt 42 by the action of negative pressure. More specifically, as shown in Fig. 4, the tablets T, which were located at the upper side H1 of the conveying belt 42 upstream of the inverting section 45, are turned upside down by passing through the inverting section 45, and the tablets T are conveyed while being located at the lower side H2 of the conveying belt 42 downstream of the inverting section 45 (see Fig. 5(b)).

[0046] The imaging device 50 captures an image of the tablet T on the conveying path C. The image captured by the imaging device 50 is used to identify the printing position on the tablet T by the printing device 51.

[0047] The printing device 51 prints on the tablets T on the transport path C. The printing device 51 has an inkjet head unit and an ink tank. The printing device 51 prints on the tablets T on the transport path C by ejecting ink from ejection nozzles provided in the head unit.

[0048] The inspection device 52 is used to inspect the appearance of the tablet T. The inspection device 52 is a unit including a surface inspection device, a 3D inspection device, and a side surface inspection device. The surface inspection device captures images to determine whether the printing on the tablet T is good or bad. The 3D inspection device irradiates a laser beam to acquire 3D data of the tablet T. The side surface inspection device captures images to inspect the shape of the side surface of the tablet T.

[0049] The sorting and recovery device 53 is equipped with various detection sensors, a sorting chute, a recovery container, a good product conveyor, etc. for sorting the tablets T. The sorting and recovery device 53 operates under the control of the main control device 70, sorts out defective products from good products, and recovers the defective products while recovering the good products to a good product recovery section (not shown).

[0050] The main control device 70 controls the supply of tablets T by the supply device 10, the main tablet processing, and the sub-tablet processing. The main control device 70 has a hardware configuration including a CPU (Central Processing Unit), RAM (Random Access Memory), and ROM (Read Only Memory), all of which are not shown. In this hardware configuration, the CPU performs calculations according to a predetermined program, causing the main control device 70 to execute operations according to the loaded program. For example, the main control device 70 controls the operations of each processing device 21, such as the conveying unit 40, the alignment device 30, the printing device 51, and the sorting and recovery device 53, as well as the operation of the supply device 10. The control by the main control device 70 will be described in detail later.

[0051] <Sub-tablet processing unit> As shown in FIG. 3, the tablet processing sub-unit 3 includes a sub-frame 5, a second line unit 20b (line unit 20), and a sub-controller 80.

[0052] The sub-frame 5 supports a plurality of processing devices 21 constituting the second line unit 20b in an arrangement that performs a series of tablet processes (sub-tablet processes) such as transporting, inspecting, and printing tablets T. In other words, the sub-frame 5 forms a sub-tablet processing space R2 that accommodates a plurality of processing devices 21 constituting the second line unit 20b (see FIG. 2).

[0053] The second line unit 20b includes a plurality of processing devices 21 configured to perform a series of main tablet processing operations, including aligning the supplied tablets T and inspecting and printing the tablets T while transporting the tablets T in a row on the transport path C. Specifically, the second line unit 20b includes an alignment device 30, a transport device 41, an imaging device 50, a printing device 51, an inspection device 52, and a sorting and recovery device 53. Note that the configuration of each processing device 21 included in the second line unit 20b is similar to that of each processing device 21 of the first line unit 20a provided in the main tablet processing unit 2, and therefore the same reference numerals as those used in the description of the line unit 20 in the main tablet processing unit 2 will be used in the description, and detailed description will be omitted.

[0054] The sub-controller 80 controls the sub-tablet processing in the sub-tablet processing unit 3 (second line unit 20b) based on commands received from the main controller 70. The sub-controller 80 has a hardware configuration including a CPU, RAM, and ROM (not shown). In this hardware configuration, the CPU performs calculations according to a predetermined program, causing the sub-controller 80 to execute operations according to the loaded program. For example, the sub-controller 80 controls the operation of each processing device 21, such as the transport unit 40, alignment device 30, printing device 51, and sorting and recovery device 53. The control of the sub-controller 80 will be described in detail later.

[0055] <Configuration of negative pressure device and center chamber> Next, the configuration and function of the negative pressure device 60 provided in the tablet processing apparatus 1 will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0056] The negative pressure device 60 is connected to the negative pressure chamber 46 in the transport device 41 and maintains the negative pressure in the negative pressure chamber 46. The negative pressure chamber 46 is also in communication with the suction port 43, and the negative pressure in the negative pressure chamber 46 generates a suction force at the suction port 43.

[0057] As shown in FIG. 3, the tablet processing apparatus 1 of this embodiment is provided with three negative pressure devices 60. As shown in FIG. 3, two of the three negative pressure devices 60 are arranged in the main tablet processing unit 2, and one negative pressure device 60 is arranged in the sub-tablet processing unit 3. Of the three negative pressure devices 60, two are straight-travel negative pressure devices 61 connected to the straight-travel negative pressure chamber 46a. The straight-travel negative pressure device 61 maintains the straight-travel negative pressure chamber 46a at a negative pressure. Of the three negative pressure devices 60, one is an inversion negative pressure device 62 connected to the inversion negative pressure chamber 46b. The inversion negative pressure device 62 maintains the inversion negative pressure chamber 46b at a negative pressure.

[0058] In this way, in the tablet processing device 1, the negative pressure device 60 (straight forward negative pressure device 61) that puts the straight forward negative pressure chamber 46a into a negative pressure state and the negative pressure device 60 (reverse negative pressure device 62) that puts the reversal negative pressure chamber 46b into a negative pressure state are separate negative pressure devices 60.

[0059] This allows the tablet processing device 1 to have different pressures in the straight-travel negative pressure chamber 46a and the reversal negative pressure chamber 46b. For example, the tablet processing device 1 can make the pressure in the reversal negative pressure chamber 46b lower than the pressure in the straight-travel negative pressure chamber 46a (the degree of vacuum can be increased). As a result, the tablet processing device 1 can appropriately set the degree of vacuum in each negative pressure chamber 46.

[0060] In the tablet processing apparatus 1, one straight-travel negative pressure device 61 and one reversal negative pressure device 62 are arranged in the main tablet processing unit 2. The straight-travel negative pressure device 61 arranged in the main tablet processing unit 2 maintains a negative pressure inside the two straight-travel negative pressure chambers 46a of the conveying device 41 included in the first line unit 20a. In addition, in the tablet processing apparatus 1, one straight-travel negative pressure device 61 is arranged in the sub-tablet processing unit 3. The straight-travel negative pressure device 61 arranged in the sub-tablet processing unit 3 maintains a negative pressure inside the two straight-travel negative pressure chambers 46a of the conveying device 41 included in the second line unit 20b.

[0061] 6, the reversing negative pressure device 62 is connected to a total of four reversing negative pressure chambers 46b: two reversing negative pressure chambers 46b provided in the conveying device 41 of the first line unit 20a and two reversing negative pressure chambers 46b provided in the conveying device 41 of the second line unit 20b. The reversing negative pressure device 62 is connected so as to branch into the reversing negative pressure chamber 46b of the first line unit 20a and the reversing negative pressure chamber 46b of the second line unit 20b via a center chamber 65 arranged between the first line unit 20a and the second line unit 20b.

[0062] In this way, the tablet processing apparatus 1 is provided with a plurality of negative pressure devices 60 that generate negative pressure in the conveying devices 41, and at least one of the plurality of negative pressure devices 60 (inversion negative pressure device 62) is shared by the conveying device 41 of the main tablet processing unit 2 and the conveying device 41 of the sub-tablet processing unit 3. This allows the tablet processing apparatus 1 to efficiently generate negative pressure in the plurality of conveying devices 41 while reducing the number of negative pressure devices 60.

[0063] The tablet processing apparatus 1 also includes a plurality of negative pressure devices 60, and the conveying device 41 is provided with an inversion section 45 that inverts the tablets T upside down, and an inversion negative pressure chamber 46b is provided inside the inversion section 45. At least one negative pressure device 60 (inversion negative pressure device 62) is connected to a plurality of (four in this embodiment) inversion negative pressure chambers 46b, including the inversion negative pressure chamber 46b provided in the conveying device 41 of the main tablet processing unit 2 and the inversion negative pressure chamber 46b provided in the conveying device 41 of the sub-tablet processing unit 3, and maintains these inversion negative pressure chambers 46b at negative pressure.

[0064] In this way, in the tablet processing apparatus 1, a single negative pressure device 60 (negative pressure device for inversion 62) is used to maintain the negative pressure chamber for inversion 46b of the main tablet processing unit 2 and the negative pressure chamber for inversion 46b of the sub-tablet processing unit 3 in a negative pressure state. As a result, in the tablet processing apparatus 1, the number of negative pressure devices 60 can be reduced while maintaining the suction force of the suction port 43 provided in the inversion section 45, compared to when a negative pressure device for inversion 62 is provided in each tablet processing unit. As a result, a high suction force can be generated in the inversion section 45, where the tablets T are likely to fall, and the tablets T can be prevented from falling.

[0065] <Layout of each component of the tablet processing device> Next, the layout of each component in the tablet processing device 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0066] In this specification, the imaginary surface that forms the boundary between the main frame 4 and the sub-frame 5 may be referred to as a "virtual joint surface F." In addition, in the tablet processing device of the present invention, the main frame and the sub-frame do not have to be joined together. In other words, the main frame and the sub-frame may simply be installed adjacent to each other without being joined together. In addition, the boundary between the main frame and the sub-frame does not have to be a single flat surface.

[0067] As shown in Figure 2, in the tablet processing device 1, the main frame 4 and the sub-frame 5 are configured separately. As shown in Figure 3, the main frame 4 supports each processing device 21 in an arrangement for performing main tablet processing, and the sub-frame 5 supports each processing device 21 in an arrangement for performing sub-tablet processing. In other words, in the tablet processing device 1, the main frame 4 and the sub-frame 5 are configured separately so as to separate a main tablet processing space R1 where a series of main tablet processing is carried out, and a sub-tablet processing space R2 where a series of sub-tablet processing is carried out. In other words, in the tablet processing device 1, the main frame 4 and the sub-frame 5 are separate entities.

[0068] Therefore, in the tablet processing device 1, the main tablet processing unit 2, which uses the main frame 4 as a support for each processing device 21 etc., and the sub-tablet processing unit 3, which uses the sub-frame 5 as a support for each processing device 21 etc., can be separated.

[0069] The tablet processing apparatus 1 can perform tablet processing such as inspection and printing of tablets T supplied from the supply device 10 on two lines: a line (first line) in the main tablet processing unit 2 and a line (second line) in the sub-tablet processing unit 3. This improves manufacturing efficiency compared to tablet processing on a single line. Furthermore, according to the tablet processing apparatus 1, the main tablet processing unit 2 and the sub-tablet processing unit 3 are configured to have separate frames, so they can be separated and transported separately to their installation locations. Therefore, the tablet processing apparatus 1 does not require special transport methods and can be transported via normal access routes (e.g., elevators or standard-sized doors) installed in buildings, allowing the apparatus to be transported without restrictions on access routes or access locations. As a result, the tablet processing apparatus 1 improves manufacturing efficiency and has fewer restrictions on access, making it easier to introduce the apparatus.

[0070] As shown in Figure 3, in the tablet processing device 1, the main frame 4 and the sub-frame 5 are configured separately to separate a main tablet processing space R1 in which the conveying path C is arranged so as to follow the imaginary joint surface F (boundary) in a plan view, and a sub-tablet processing space R2 in which the conveying path C is arranged so as to follow the imaginary joint surface F in a plan view. In addition, in the tablet processing device 1, tablets T in the main tablet processing space R1 and tablets T in the sub-tablet processing space R2 are conveyed so as to run side by side. In other words, in the tablet processing device 1, the conveying device 41 of the main tablet processing unit 2 and the conveying device 41 of the sub-tablet processing unit 3 are arranged so as to be parallel to each other and so that their longitudinal directions are along the imaginary joint surface F.

[0071] This allows the tablet processing device 1 to have smaller dimensions in the depth direction (front-rear direction X) for each of the main tablet processing unit 2 and the sub-tablet processing unit 3. Therefore, the tablet processing device 1 further reduces restrictions on the size of the opening when being carried in, making it easier to carry in to the installation location. As a result, the tablet processing device 1 has fewer restrictions when being carried in, making it easier to introduce the device.

[0072] 1, a door 2b is provided on the main housing 2a of the main tablet processing unit 2. Similarly, a door (not shown) is provided on the sub-housing 3a of the sub-tablet processing unit 3. Therefore, in the tablet processing device 1, maintenance of the internal processing device 21 can be performed by opening the door provided in each tablet processing unit.

[0073] 3, in the tablet processing device 1 of this embodiment, the main tablet processing unit 2 and the sub-tablet processing unit 3 are arranged so that each processing device 21 faces the virtual joint surface F. In other words, in the tablet processing device 1, the main tablet processing unit 2 and the sub-tablet processing unit 3 are arranged so that they are back-to-back. Furthermore, in the tablet processing device 1, the main tablet processing unit 2 and the sub-tablet processing unit 3 are configured so that the arrangement order of each processing device 21 is the same when the supply device 10, which is the supply source of tablets T, is used as the starting point.

[0074] This allows the operator to easily access each processing device 21 and easily grasp the position of each processing device 21 without separating the main tablet processing unit 2 and the sub-tablet processing unit 3. Therefore, the tablet processing device 1 makes it easy to perform maintenance on the processing devices 21 in each unit.

[0075] In addition, in the tablet processing device 1, the center chamber 65 is disposed at approximately the center of the tablet processing device 1 in a plan view, along the imaginary joint plane F. In other words, in the tablet processing device 1, the center chamber 65 is disposed across approximately the center of the tablet processing device 1 in the front-rear direction X. In addition, the center chamber 65 is disposed so as to be aligned with the supply device 10 in the width direction Y in a plan view.

[0076] This allows the tablet processing device 1 to utilize the space between the first line unit 20a and the second line unit 20b, contributing to the miniaturization of the entire device compared to when two main tablet processing units 2 are arranged side by side.

[0077] 3, in the tablet processing apparatus 1, the two inversion negative pressure chambers 46b included in the main tablet processing unit 2 and the two inversion negative pressure chambers 46b included in the sub-tablet processing unit 3 are connected so as to branch off from the center chamber 65 in a plan view. This allows the tablet processing apparatus 1 to shorten and optimize the flow path of the inversion negative pressure chambers 46b.

[0078] In the tablet processing device 1, a control panel (not shown) functions as a lid member that closes the opening (virtual joint surface F) of the main tablet processing unit 2. More specifically, as shown in Fig. 3, the tablet processing device 1 includes a main control panel unit 100 in which the control panel of the main tablet processing unit 2 is housed in a housing, and a sub-control panel unit 101 in which the control panel of the sub-tablet processing unit 3 is housed in a housing. The main control panel unit 100 and the sub-control panel unit 101 are each housed in a housing, and therefore can be installed independently.

[0079] In the tablet processing device 1, the main tablet processing unit 2 and the sub-tablet processing unit 3 are connected and installed as a single device, while the main control panel unit 100 and the sub-control panel unit 101 can be installed independently. Furthermore, in the tablet processing device 1, when only the main tablet processing unit 2 is operated, the main control panel unit 100 functions as a lid member (closing member) that closes the main tablet processing space R1 of the main tablet processing unit 2.

[0080] That is, the main tablet processing space R1 of the main tablet processing unit 2 is blocked by the sub-tablet processing unit 3 or the main control panel unit 100. Furthermore, when the sub-tablet processing unit 3 is not connected to the main tablet processing unit 2 and the sub-tablet processing unit 3 is unable to receive at least one of the tablets T from the main tablet processing unit 2 and communicate with the main control unit 70, the main control device 70 controls the main tablet processing unit 2 to perform main tablet processing and not to perform sub-tablet processing.

[0081] Therefore, in the tablet processing device 1, if only the main tablet processing unit 2 is installed and the joint surface of the main tablet processing unit 2 is attached so as to be covered by the main control panel unit 100, the device will be complete with only the main tablet processing unit 2 and will function as a device for inspecting and printing tablets T. In other words, the main tablet processing unit 2 can complete a series of processing operations including inspecting and printing tablets T.

[0082] Therefore, the tablet processing device 1 can flexibly accommodate an increase in the number of lines by, for example, first installing the main tablet processing unit 2 and then adding the sub-tablet processing unit 3 as needed. As a result, the tablet processing device 1 not only improves production efficiency, but also has fewer restrictions on loading and can flexibly accommodate an increase in the number of lines, making it easier to install more devices.

[0083] As shown in Figure 3, in the tablet processing device 1 of this embodiment, the supply device 10 and the center chamber 65 of the main tablet processing unit 2 are configured as the utility unit 7. In other words, in this embodiment, the main tablet processing unit 2 is configured to include a line unit 20 and a utility unit 7. Furthermore, in the tablet processing device 1, the utility unit 7 is arranged approximately in the center in the depth direction (front-rear direction X) of the tablet processing device 1. From another perspective, in the tablet processing device 1, the utility unit 7 is arranged so as to separate the first line unit 20a and the second line unit 20b.

[0084] As a result, the tablet processing device 1 can have a simple configuration by arranging the utility unit 7, the supply device 10, the center chamber 65, and other components that are shared by both the main tablet processing and the sub-tablet processing, between the area where the main tablet processing is performed and the area where the sub-tablet processing is performed.

[0085] In the tablet processing device 1 of this embodiment, an example is shown in which the negative pressure device 60 is disposed in each of the main tablet processing unit 2 and the sub-tablet processing unit 3, but the tablet processing device of the present invention is not limited to this embodiment. For example, in the tablet processing device of the present invention, the negative pressure device may be disposed outside the main tablet processing unit or the sub-tablet processing unit. In other words, the negative pressure device may be a unit separate from the main tablet processing unit or the sub-tablet processing unit.

[0086] Furthermore, the tablet processing device of the present invention may be capable of separating the main tablet processing unit into two or more units. For example, the main tablet processing unit may be capable of separating into a unit including the first line unit 20a and a utility unit including a supply device.

[0087] As described above, according to the tablet processing device 1 of this embodiment, both printing on tablets T and visual inspection of the front and back surfaces of tablets T can be performed with a single device. In other words, according to the tablet processing device 1, a series of operations from printing on unprinted tablets T to visual inspection can be completed with a single device. Furthermore, the tablet processing device 1 can be used as an inspection device with the printing function turned off. Furthermore, the tablet processing device 1 can be used as a printing device with the visual inspection function turned off. Therefore, the tablet processing device 1 of this embodiment can be flexibly operated according to the type and application of tablets T. For example, even in situations where the tablets T to be inspected or printed on vary depending on the day, it is not necessary to prepare multiple devices, and a single device can flexibly respond.

[0088] Although the tablet processing device 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention has been described above, the tablet processing device of the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment. For example, although the tablet processing device 1 of the present embodiment has been described as an example in which printing and inspection are performed on both the front and back surfaces of the tablet T, the tablet processing device of the present invention may be configured to print and / or inspect only one surface of the tablet.

[0089] Furthermore, in the tablet processing device 1 of this embodiment, an example in which the suction port 43 is slit-shaped is shown, but the tablet processing device of the present invention is not limited to this embodiment. For example, the tablet processing device of the present invention may have a hole-shaped suction port. In other words, when the tablet processing device of the present invention transports tablets on a conveying path while suctioning them, the suction port may have any shape. Furthermore, the tablet processing device of the present invention does not have to transport tablets while suctioning them. For example, the tablet processing device of the present invention may be configured to provide a recess in the conveying path, and transport tablets by fitting them into the recess. The tablet processing device of the present invention allows for the selection of various methods for holding tablets on the conveying path.

[0090] <Control by main control device and sub-control device> Next, the control by the main control device 70 and the sub-control device 80 in the tablet processing device 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0091] The main control device 70 controls the main tablet process and the sub-tablet process. In the tablet processing device 1 of this embodiment, a sub-control device 80 that controls the sub-tablet process is provided in the sub-tablet processing unit 3, and the main control device 70 controls the sub-tablet process via the sub-control device 80. In other words, the main control device 70 can be said to be a control device that controls the entire tablet processing device 1. The main control device 70 is configured with functional blocks according to the loaded program. For example, as shown in FIG. 7, the main control device 70 is configured with an overall control unit 71, a supply device control unit 72, a first line control unit 73, and a first abnormality detection unit 74.

[0092] The overall control unit 71 controls the overall operation of the tablet processing device 1. Specifically, the overall control unit 71 transmits commands to other control units that trigger various operations such as the supply of tablets T, main tablet processing, and sub-tablet processing, as well as commands that trigger the stopping of various operations. That is, the overall control unit 71 controls the supply of tablets T, the main tablet processing in the main tablet processing unit 2, and the sub-tablet processing in the sub-tablet processing unit 3. When each control unit receives a command transmitted from the overall control unit 71, each control unit (first line control unit 73, second line control unit 81, etc.) controls each device. Therefore, it can be said that a "command" is instruction information that indicates an instruction from the overall control unit 71.

[0093] The supply device control unit 72 controls the operation of the first vibrating feeder 12a and the second vibrating feeder 12b provided in the supply device 10, and controls the supply of tablets T to the first line unit 20a and the second line unit 20b. The supply device control unit 72 receives commands related to tablet supply from the overall control unit 71, and thereby controls the operation of the vibrating feeder 12, such as starting and stopping the supply of tablets T.

[0094] The first line control unit 73 controls the operation of each processing device 21 included in the first line unit 20a (the alignment device 30, the conveying device 41, the imaging device 50, the printing device 51, the inspection device 52, and the sorting and recovery device 53). That is, the first line control unit 73 controls the operation of the multiple processing devices 21 that perform the main tablet processing.

[0095] The first line control unit 73 controls the aligning device 30 so that the tablets T supplied from the first vibrating feeder 12a are aligned by the aligning device 30 and supplied to the conveying unit 40. The first line control unit 73 also controls the conveying unit 40 so that the tablets T supplied to the conveying unit 40 are adsorbed and conveyed. As a result, the tablets T are conveyed while being adsorbed to the suction port 43 of the conveying device 41A.

[0096] The first line control unit 73 controls the imaging device 50 to capture an image of the tablet T while the tablet T is being conveyed by the conveying device 41A (on the conveying path C), and identifies the tablet shape (the outer shape of the tablet T, the presence or absence and orientation of a score line, etc.) and detects foreign matter (first inspection). Furthermore, the first line control unit 73 controls the printing device 51 to perform printing on the tablet T based on the tablet shape.

[0097] The first line control unit 73 controls the inspection device 52 to capture images of the printed tablets T. Then, the first line control unit 73 acquires images for appearance inspection from the inspection device 52 and executes various processes to determine whether the printing on each tablet T is good or bad, whether there are any defects (cracks, chips, foreign matter, etc.), whether there are any mixed-in tablets T of different types, etc. (second inspection).

[0098] Next, when the tablets T are handed over from the conveying device 41A to the conveying device 41B, the first line control unit 73 performs the same processes (identifying the printing position, printing, visual inspection, etc.) and operations on the conveying path C of the conveying device 41B. Then, the first line control unit 73 determines whether the tablets T are good or bad based on various data on both sides of the tablets T, and then controls the operation of the sorting and recovery device 53 so that tablets T in which an abnormality is detected are recovered as defective products and tablets T in which no abnormality is found are recovered to a good product recovery unit (not shown). In this way, the first line control unit 73 controls the multiple processing devices 21 to perform a series of tablet processes on the tablets T on the conveying path C.

[0099] The first abnormality detection unit 74 detects an abnormality that has occurred in any of the processing devices 21 among the multiple processing devices 21 controlled by the first line control unit 73. Furthermore, when the first abnormality detection unit 74 detects an abnormality in a processing device 21, it transmits information related to the occurrence of the abnormality to the overall control unit 71.

[0100] Functional blocks corresponding to the loaded programs are configured in the sub-control device 80. For example, as shown in Fig. 7, the sub-control device 80 is configured with a second line control unit 81 and a second abnormality detection unit 82.

[0101] The second line control unit 81 controls the operation of each processing device 21 included in the second line unit 20b (the alignment device 30, the conveying device 41, the imaging device 50, the printing device 51, the inspection device 52, and the sorting and recovery device 53). In other words, the second line control unit 81 controls the operation of the multiple processing devices 21 that perform sub-tablet processing. Note that the control by the second line control unit 81 is similar to that by the first line control unit 73, and therefore a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0102] The second abnormality detection unit 82 detects an abnormality that has occurred in any of the processing devices 21 among the plurality of processing devices 21 controlled by the second line control unit 81. Furthermore, when the second abnormality detection unit 82 detects an abnormality, it transmits information related to the occurrence of the abnormality to the overall control unit 71.

[0103] <Control of connection status, non-connection status, and when an abnormality is detected> Next, the control in the tablet processing device 1 in the connected state, the non-connected state, and when an abnormality is detected will be described.

[0104] In the following description, the state in which the sub-tablet processing unit 3 is connected so as to be able to both receive tablets T from the main tablet processing unit 2 and communicate with the main control device 70 may be simply referred to as the "connected state." In the tablet processing device 1 of this embodiment, when the alignment device 30 of the sub-tablet processing unit 3 is connected to the supply device 10 (second vibrating feeder 12b), the sub-tablet processing unit 3 is able to receive tablets T from the main tablet processing unit 2. In addition, in the tablet processing device 1 of this embodiment, when the sub-controller 80 is connected to the main control device 70 and is able to communicate, the sub-tablet processing unit 3 is able to communicate with the main tablet processing unit 2.

[0105] In the following description, the state in which the sub-tablet processing unit 3 is unable to supply tablets T from the main tablet processing unit 2 or communicate with the main control device 70 may be simply referred to as a "disconnected state." The "disconnected state" means that either or both of the following conditions are not met: the alignment device 30 of the sub-tablet processing unit 3 is connected to the supply device 10, and the sub-control device 80 is connected to the main control device 70 and is able to communicate.

[0106] <1. When connected> In the connected state, the overall control unit 71 (main control device) controls the main tablet processing and the sub-tablet processing. Specifically, in the connected state, the overall control unit 71 transmits a command (first line operation command) to the first line control unit 73 to instruct it to execute the main tablet processing, and transmits a command (second line operation command) to the second line control unit 81 of the sub-control device 80 to instruct it to execute the sub-tablet processing. Based on the reception of the first line operation command, the first line control unit 73 controls the operation of each processing device 21 included in the first line unit 20a to perform the main tablet processing. Furthermore, based on the reception of the second line operation command, the second line control unit 81 controls the operation of each processing device 21 included in the second line unit 20b to perform the sub-tablet processing.

[0107] Furthermore, in the connected state, the overall control unit 71 controls both the first line unit 20a and the second line unit 20b to supply tablets T. Specifically, in the connected state, the overall control unit 71 transmits a command (all feeder operation command) to the supply device control unit 72 to instruct both the first line unit 20a and the second line unit 20b to supply tablets T. Based on the receipt of the tablet supply command, the supply device control unit 72 operates the first vibrating feeder 12a and the second vibrating feeder 12b to supply tablets to both the alignment device 30 of the main tablet processing unit 2 and the alignment device 30 of the sub-tablet processing unit 3.

[0108] In this way, when the tablet processing device 1 is in a connected state, tablets T are supplied to both the first line unit 20a and the second line unit 20b, and both main tablet processing in the main tablet processing unit 2 and sub-tablet processing in the sub-tablet processing unit 3 are performed.

[0109] <2. When not connected> In the disconnected state, the overall control unit 71 controls the main tablet processing to be performed and the sub-tablet processing not to be performed. Specifically, in the disconnected state, the overall control unit 71 sends a command (first line operation command) to the first line control unit 73 to instruct it to perform the main tablet processing, but does not send a second line operation command to the second line control unit 81. Based on the reception of the first line operation command, the first line control unit 73 controls the operation of each processing device 21 included in the first line unit 20a and performs the main tablet processing. On the other hand, in the sub-tablet processing unit 3, the second line operation command, which is the trigger for starting the sub-tablet processing, is not sent from the overall control unit 71, so the sub-tablet processing is not performed.

[0110] Furthermore, in the case of a non-connected state, the overall control unit 71 controls so that tablets T are supplied to the first line unit 20a and tablets T are not supplied to the second line unit 20b. Specifically, in the case of a non-connected state, the overall control unit 71 transmits a command (first feeder operation command) to the supply device control unit 72 instructing so that tablets T are supplied to the first line unit 20a and tablets T are not supplied to the second line unit 20b. Based on the reception of the first feeder operation command, the supply device control unit 72 controls so that the first vibrating feeder 12a is operated and the second vibrating feeder 12b is not operated. As a result, tablets T are supplied to the alignment device 30 of the main tablet processing unit 2, while tablets T are not supplied to the alignment device 30 of the sub-tablet processing unit 3.

[0111] In this way, when the tablet processing device 1 is in a disconnected state, tablets T are supplied to the first line unit 20a and main tablet processing is performed in the main tablet processing unit 2, but tablets T are not supplied to the second line unit 20b and sub-tablet processing is not performed in the sub-tablet processing unit 3.

[0112] Therefore, the tablet processing apparatus 1 can process tablets even when there is only the main tablet processing unit 2. Therefore, the tablet processing apparatus 1 can flexibly accommodate the expansion of lines, for example, by introducing only the main tablet processing unit 2 (only one line) and then later adding (retrofitting) a sub-tablet processing unit 3 as needed to increase the number of production lines.

[0113] <3. Control when an abnormality occurs> If an abnormality occurs in any of the multiple processing devices 21 included in the main tablet processing unit 2 and the sub tablet processing unit 3, the overall control unit 71 controls the line unit 20 including the processing device 21 where the abnormality occurred to stop tablet processing, and to continue tablet processing by the other line unit 20.

[0114] In addition, if an abnormality occurs in any of the multiple processing devices 21 included in the main tablet processing unit 2 and the sub tablet processing unit 3, the overall control unit 71 controls the system to stop the supply of tablets T to the line unit 20 including the processing device 21 where the abnormality occurred, and to continue the supply of tablets T to the other line unit 20.

[0115] For example, when the first abnormality detection unit 74 detects an abnormality in any of the processing devices 21 included in the first line unit 20a, the overall control unit 71 transmits a command (main tablet processing stop command) to instruct the first line control unit 73 to stop the main tablet processing. Based on receiving the main tablet processing stop command, the first line control unit 73 stops the operation of each processing device 21 included in the first line unit 20a and stops the main tablet processing.

[0116] Furthermore, when the overall control unit 71 detects an abnormality in the processing device 21 included in the first line unit 20a, it transmits a command (first feeder stop command) to the supply device control unit 72 to stop the supply of tablets T to the first line unit 20a and to continue the supply of tablets T to the second line unit 20b. Based on the reception of the first feeder stop command, the supply device control unit 72 controls the first vibrating feeder 12a to stop operation and the second vibrating feeder 12b to continue operation.

[0117] Furthermore, when the second abnormality detection unit 82 detects an abnormality in any of the processing devices 21 included in the second line unit 20b, the overall control unit 71 sends a command (sub-tablet processing stop command) to the second line control unit 81 to instruct it to stop sub-tablet processing, and sends a command (second feeder stop command) to the supply device control unit 72 to instruct it to stop the supply of tablets T to the second line unit 20b and continue the supply of tablets T to the first line unit 20a.

[0118] In this way, even if an abnormality is detected in one of the two lines, the main tablet processing line and the sub tablet processing line, the tablet processing apparatus 1 can continue operation of the other line. Therefore, the tablet processing apparatus 1 can avoid discarding tablets T due to continued production on the line where the abnormality occurred, and can avoid stopping all operations due to continued operation on the other line, thereby responding flexibly to the occurrence of an abnormality and contributing to stable operation.

[0119] In this way, in the tablet processing device 1 of this embodiment, various commands (instruction information) are sent from the overall control unit 71 of the main control device 70 to the supply device control unit 72 that controls the supply device 10, the first line control unit 73 that controls the main tablet processing, the second line control unit 81 that controls the sub-tablet processing, etc., whereby various operations are performed in the main tablet processing unit 2 and the sub-tablet processing unit 3. That is, in the tablet processing device 1, the main tablet processing and the sub-tablet processing are performed under the control of the main control device 70.

[0120] As described above, the tablet processing apparatus 1 can perform tablet processing on two lines: main tablet processing in the main tablet processing unit 2, and sub-tablet processing in the sub-tablet processing unit 3. Furthermore, the tablet processing apparatus 1 controls the supply of tablets T to the sub-tablet processing unit 3 and the operation of each line unit 20 depending on whether the sub-tablet processing unit 3 is connected to the main tablet processing unit 2 or not, the occurrence of an abnormality in one of the two tablet processing units, etc.

[0121] <Modification of the main control device> Next, modified examples of the main control device will be described. The tablet processing device of the present invention may not be provided with a sub-control device. For example, as in the main control device 90 shown as an example in Figure 8, the sub-control device may not be provided in the sub-tablet processing unit 3, and the main control device 90 may be provided with the functions of the sub-control device (a second line control unit 81 that controls the second line unit and a second abnormality detection unit 82).

[0122] That is, in the tablet processing device of the present invention, it does not matter whether a control device is provided in both the main tablet processing unit and the sub-tablet processing unit. Furthermore, in the tablet processing device of the present invention, a control unit (sub-overall control unit) that controls the overall operation of the sub-tablet processing unit may be provided in the sub-controller, and the sub-tablet processing may be controlled via the sub-overall control unit.

[0123] Although one embodiment of the present invention has been described above, the specific aspects that the present invention can adopt are not limited to the above-described embodiment. [Explanation of symbols]

[0124] 1. Tablet processing equipment 2 Main tablet processing unit 3 Sub-tablet processing units 4. Mainframe 5 Subframe 21 Processing equipment 30 Alignment device (processing device) 41 Conveying device (processing device) 50 Imaging device (processing device) 51 Printing equipment (processing equipment) 52 Inspection equipment (processing equipment) 53 Sorting and recovery equipment (processing equipment) 70 Main control device 80 Sub-controller 90 Main control unit C Conveyor path F Virtual joint surface R1 Main tablet processing space R2 Sub-tablet processing space T tablets

Claims

1. A tablet processing device that inspects and / or prints tablets on a conveying path along which the tablets are conveyed, The tablet processing system has a main tablet processing unit and a sub-tablet processing unit, The main tablet processing unit comprises: a plurality of processing devices configured to supply the tablets received from outside, and to perform a main tablet processing, which is a series of tablet processing including aligning the supplied tablets, and inspecting and / or printing the tablets while transporting them in a row on the transport path; a main frame supporting a plurality of the processing devices in a main tablet processing arrangement; The sub-tablet processing unit comprises: a plurality of processing devices configured to perform sub-tablet processing, which is a series of tablet processing steps for the tablets supplied from the main tablet processing unit, including aligning the supplied tablets and inspecting and / or printing the tablets while transporting them in a line on the transport path; a subframe for supporting a plurality of the processing devices in a position for performing the sub-tablet processing; A tablet processing device characterized in that the main frame and the sub-frame are configured separately so as to separate a main tablet processing space where the main tablet processing is performed and a sub-tablet processing space where the sub-tablet processing is performed.

2. The main frame and the sub-frame are configured separately to separate the main tablet processing space where the main tablet processing is performed and the transport path is arranged along the boundary between the main frame and the sub-frame in a plan view of the tablet processing device, and the sub-tablet processing space where the sub-tablet processing is performed and the transport path is arranged along the boundary in a plan view of the tablet processing device, The tablet processing device according to claim 1, wherein the tablets in the main tablet processing space and the tablets in the sub-tablet processing space are transported so as to run in parallel.

3. The main tablet processing unit includes a main control device that controls the main tablet processing and the sub-tablet processing, The tablet processing device described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that when a sub-controller that controls the sub-tablet processing is provided in the sub-tablet processing unit, the main control device controls the sub-tablet processing via the sub-controller.

4. The main control device When the sub-tablet processing unit is connected so as to be able to both receive the tablets from the main tablet processing unit and communicate with the main control device, the sub-tablet processing unit is controlled to perform the main tablet processing and the sub-tablet processing, The tablet processing device described in claim 3, characterized in that the sub-tablet processing unit performs the main tablet processing and controls not to perform the sub-tablet processing when at least one of the supply of tablets from the main tablet processing unit and communication with the main control device is impossible.

5. The main control device A tablet processing device as described in claim 3, characterized in that when an abnormality occurs in any of the multiple processing devices included in the main tablet processing unit and the sub tablet processing unit, the tablet processing of the tablet processing unit including the processing device where the abnormality occurred is stopped and the tablet processing of the other unit is controlled to continue.

6. A main tablet processing unit used in the tablet processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2.

7. A tablet processing sub-unit used in the tablet processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2.

Images