Arrangement for handling the strips of packaging bags

Abstract

The present invention provides an arrangement for handling the strips (100) of the packaging bags (101) of a drug packaging machine. [Solution] The arrangement includes a conveying device (200, 600) for conveying strips (100) of the packaging bags (101), the conveying device (200, 600) having an inlet (201, 610) for receiving the packaging bags (101), an outlet (202, 614) for discharging the packaging bags (101), and means (203, 204, 205, The system includes (206, 601, 602, 603, 604, 605), a first imaging device (300) positioned at the entrance (201, 610) to capture at least one image of the packaging bag (101) before transport to the entrance (201, 610), and a second imaging device (400) positioned at the exit (202, 614) to capture at least one image of the packaging bag (101) after transport from the exit (202, 614).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an arrangement for handling strips of sub - packets, according to the preamble of the appended independent claims. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a pharmaceutical dispensing machine.

Background Art

[0002] Various pharmaceutical dispensing machines for automatically dispensing drugs to patients are known. Many such pharmaceutical dispensing machines use strips of pre - packaged sub - packets, and each sub - packet contains the drugs to be taken by the patient at a determined date and time.

[0003] Related - art pharmaceutical dispensing machines include a chamber for a strip of sub - packets to be dispensed, and one or more transport devices for transporting the sub - packets from the chamber through an imaging device and a cutting device to an outlet where the patient can remove the sub - packets. The imaging device is used to image the sub - packets in order to extract information such as the patient name and dispensing date and time from the sub - packets, and / or to detect the seam portion between the sub - packets. The cutting device is used to separate the sub - packets from the strip of sub - packets by cutting the strip in a transverse direction along the detected seam portion.

[0004] One problem associated with known pharmaceutical dispensing machines relates to situations where the dispensing sub - packets are torn, or an incorrect strip of sub - packets is inserted into the pharmaceutical dispensing machine. In known pharmaceutical dispensing machines, after either of these situations is detected, the time for inserting a new strip of sub - packets into the pharmaceutical dispensing machine and continuing the drug dispensing as intended is extremely short.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] The main object of the present invention is to mitigate and further eliminate the aforementioned problems of the related art.

[0006] The object of the present invention is to provide an arrangement for handling strips of packaging bags in a drug packaging machine. More specifically, the object of the present invention is to provide an arrangement that gives the drug packaging machine more time to insert a new strip of packaging bag when it is detected that a packaging bag has been torn or that the wrong packaging bag has been inserted into the drug packaging machine.

[0007] Another objective of the present invention is to provide a drug packaging machine for dispensing individual packets of medication to patients. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] To achieve the above objectives, the arrangement according to the present invention is characterized by those shown in the feature portions of the appended independent claims. Advantageous embodiments of the present invention are described in the dependent claims.

[0009] An arrangement for handling a strip of packaging bags according to the present invention comprises a conveying device for transporting a strip of packaging bags, the conveying device comprising an inlet for receiving packaging bags, an outlet for discharging packaging bags, means for transporting packaging bags from the inlet to the outlet, a first imaging device disposed in association with the inlet and configured to capture at least one image of the packaging bags before they are transported to the inlet, and a second imaging device disposed in association with the outlet and configured to capture at least one image of the packaging bags after they have been transported from the outlet.

[0010] The arrangement according to the present invention can be used in a drug packaging machine for handling strips of sachet bags. The strips of sachet bags are formed by joining sachet bags together, and each sachet bag contains medication that a patient is to take at a predetermined time.

[0011] The arrangement according to the present invention comprises two imaging devices and a transport device between them. The first imaging device images the packaging bag before it is transported by the transport device to a second imaging device that images the transported packaging bag. The first imaging device is configured to capture at least one image of the packaging bag. At least one image captured by the first imaging device may be processed to determine patient information and drug-related information on the packaging bag, such as a patient identifier (e.g., name and / or identification number) and the date and time of dispensing. This information can be used to detect situations where the packaging bag is torn or the wrong packaging bag strip has been inserted into the drug packaging machine. Alternatively, at least one image captured by the first imaging device may be processed to detect the end of the packaging bag strip, i.e., the last packaging bag. The second imaging device is configured to capture at least one image of the packaging bag. At least one image captured by the second imaging device may be processed to detect the seam between two packaging bags. The first and second imaging devices are equipped with cameras, which are preferably digital cameras. The first and second imaging devices may also be equipped with other optical components.

[0012] The individual packaging bags are received sequentially into the conveying device from the entrance. The individual packaging bags are transported from the entrance to the exit by the conveying means and discharged from the conveying device through the exit. The conveying means may include, for example, one or more pairs of foam rollers and / or opposing belt conveyors, between which strips of individual packaging bags are transported. The conveying means can transport multiple individual packaging bags simultaneously, meaning that the conveying device can accommodate individual packaging bags while transporting them. Preferably, the means for transporting individual packaging bags from entrance to exit can transport at least three individual packaging bags simultaneously.

[0013] An advantage of the arrangement according to the present invention is that it gives the drug packaging machine more time to insert a new strip of packaging bag when it is detected that a packaging bag has torn or that the wrong packaging bag has been inserted into the drug packaging machine.

[0014] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the arrangement comprises means for processing at least one image captured by a first imaging device in order to determine patient-related information and drug-related information on a dispensing bag. The patient-related information and drug-related information may include a patient identifier (e.g., name and / or identification number) and the date and time of dispensing. This information may be printed in a specific layout directly on the surface of the dispensing bag or on a label affixed to the dispensing bag. The processing means may comprise a processor and a memory containing computer program code, the memory and computer program code configured to allow the processor to determine the patient-related information and drug-related information on the dispensing bag.

[0015] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the arrangement comprises means for processing at least one image captured by a second imaging device in order to detect a seam between two dispensing bags. The seam refers to the portion between two dispensing bags where a strip should be cut to separate the dispensing bags from each other. The processing means may comprise a processor and a memory containing computer program code, the memory and the computer program code configured by the processor to detect the seam between the dispensing bags.

[0016] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the means for transporting the packaging bags from an inlet to an outlet is arranged to transport at least three packaging bags simultaneously. The means for transporting the packaging bags from an inlet to an outlet may be arranged to transport, for example, three to five, five to ten, or three to fifteen packaging bags simultaneously.

[0017] According to one embodiment of the present invention, means for transporting a package bag from an inlet to an outlet include a first endless belt and a plurality of first guide elements arranged to guide the first endless belt along a first path, wherein at least one of the first guide elements is a first guide roller; a second endless belt and a plurality of second guide elements arranged to guide the second endless belt along a second path, wherein at least one of the second guide elements is a second guide roller; and a plurality of third guide rollers arranged to guide the first endless belt and the second endless belt along a third path, wherein the package bag is transported from an inlet to an outlet between the first endless belt and the second endless belt along the third path, and means for rotating at least one of the first, second, or third guide rollers.

[0018] A first guide element is positioned to contact the first endless belt and guide the first endless belt along the first path. The first guide element can be, for example, a guide roller, a slide bar, or a slide surface. Preferably, all first guide elements are first guide rollers. A second guide element is positioned to contact the second endless belt and guide the second endless belt along the second path. The second guide element can be, for example, a guide roller, a slide bar, or a slide surface. Preferably, all second guide elements are second guide rollers. A third guide roller is positioned to guide the first endless belt and the second endless belt together along the third path. The first endless belt and the second endless belt are driven by rotating at least one of the first guide rollers, or at least one of the second guide rollers, or at least one of the third guide rollers with a rotating means. The other guide rollers are rotated by the moving first and second endless belts. Preferably, the rotating means is arranged to rotate at least one of the third guide rollers. This has the advantage that the first and second endless belts move automatically at the same speed without the need to synchronize their movements.

[0019] The packaged bags are received sequentially into the device from the entrance. The packaged bags are transported from the entrance to the exit along a third path between the first and second endless belts. The packaged bags move between the first and second endless belts around a third guide roller. Because the packaged bags are sealed between the first and second endless belts, contact with surrounding machinery is prevented. The packaged bags are discharged from the device through the exit.

[0020] The number of guide elements, the number of rollers, and the number of paths in the endless belt can be selected according to space constraints and the desired length of the third path. The number of first and second guide elements can be, for example, 4 to 15, and the number of third guide rollers can be, for example, 2 to 8. The diameter of the first and second guide rollers can be, for example, 0.5 cm to 5 cm, and the diameter of the third guide roller can be, for example, 2 cm to 20 cm. The guide elements and rollers can be made of, for example, aluminum, steel, or polymer. The first and second endless belts can be made of, for example, silicone, polyurethane, or other elastic material having desirable friction properties.

[0021] The conveying device may include a housing or frame that supports guide elements and rollers, as well as a rotating mechanism. The housing or frame may be made of, for example, aluminum, steel, polymer, or the like.

[0022] According to one embodiment of the present invention, means for rotating at least one of the first, second, or third guide rollers comprises an electric motor connected to the at least one guide roller. The electric motor may be directly connected to the end of one of the guide roller shafts. Alternatively or additionally, the electric motor may be connected to the end of one or more guide roller shafts using gears or a cogged belt pulley and toothed belt. Preferably, the electric motor is connected to at least one of the third guide rollers.

[0023] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the conveying device comprises an inlet roller positioned at the inlet in association with one of a plurality of first guide elements. Preferably, the first guide element is a first guide roller. The packaging bags are received into the conveying device between the inlet roller and the first guide element. The inlet roller is preferably free-rotating. The inlet roller can be suspended from the conveying device by one or more springs or rubber bands, the springs or rubber bands pulling the inlet roller toward the first guide element. The springs or rubber bands may be mounted between the shaft of the inlet roller and the housing or frame of the conveying device. The diameter of the inlet roller can be, for example, 2 cm to 10 cm. The advantage of the inlet roller is that, together with the first guide element, it facilitates the receiving of packaging bags into the conveying device.

[0024] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the inlet roller is positioned to be movable relative to the first guide element in relation to the inlet roller, such that the distance between the inlet roller and the first guide element can be varied. This allows packaging bags of different thicknesses to easily move between the inlet roller and the first guide element.

[0025] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the conveying device includes means for applying a force to pull the inlet roller toward a first guide element in relation to the inlet roller. This allows the packaging bags to maintain a tight, continuous contact state regardless of the thickness of the packaging bags as they move between the inlet roller and the first guide element. The means for applying the force may include one or more springs or rubber bands attached to the shaft of the inlet roller.

[0026] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the conveying device includes an outlet roller disposed at the outlet in relation to one of a plurality of first guide elements. Preferably, the first guide element is a first guide roller. The sub-packaging bag is discharged from the conveying device between the outlet roller and the first guide element. The outlet roller is preferably freely rotatable. The outlet roller can be suspended from the conveying device by one or more springs or rubber bands, and the springs or rubber bands pull the outlet roller towards the first guide element. The springs or rubber bands can be attached between the shaft of the outlet roller and the housing or frame of the conveying device. The diameter of the outlet roller can be, for example, 2 cm to 10 cm. The advantage of the outlet roller is that, together with the first guide element, it facilitates the discharge of the sub-packaging bag from the conveying device.

[0027] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the outlet roller is arranged to be movable relative to the first guide element in relation to the outlet roller so that the distance between the outlet roller and the first guide element can vary. Thereby, sub-packaging bags of different thicknesses can easily move between the outlet roller and the first guide element.

[0028] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the conveying device includes means for applying a force that pulls the outlet roller towards the first guide element in relation to the outlet roller. Thereby, when the sub-packaging bag moves between the outlet roller and the first guide element, a close and continuous contact state can be maintained regardless of the thickness of the sub-packaging bag. The means for applying the force may include one or more springs or rubber bands attached to the shaft of the outlet roller.

[0029] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the inlet roller and / or the outlet roller is a foam roller. The elasticity of the foam roller provides a good grip, and sub-packaging bags with different thicknesses can easily move between the foam roller and the first guide element. When a foam roller is used, the inlet roller and the outlet roller do not need to be movable relative to the first guide element. The foam roller can be made of, for example, rubber, polyurethane foam, EPDM, EVA, etc.

[0030] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the length of the third path is 10 cm to 100 cm. Preferably, the length of the third path is 15 cm to 70 cm. Considering the sub-packaging bags, this means that the conveying device can convey 2 to 10 sub-packaging bags simultaneously between the first endless belt and the second endless belt.

[0031] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the number of the third guide rollers is 2 to 8. Preferably, the number of the third guide rollers is 2 to 5.

[0032] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the diameter of the third guide roller is 2 cm to 20 cm. Preferably, the diameter of the third guide roller is 5 cm to 15 cm.

[0033] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the third guide roller has a larger diameter at the central portion than at both ends. The advantage of this shape is that the edge of the strip can slightly shortcut around the third guide roller, so the stress on the strip of the sub-packaging bag is reduced. Without this shape, the edge of the strip may be damaged. The diameter of the third guide roller can be, for example, 2 mm to 15 mm larger at the central portion than at both ends. Preferably, the third guide roller is barrel-shaped.

[0034] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the widths of the first endless belt and the second endless belt are 4 cm to 15 cm. Preferably, the widths of the first endless belt and the second endless belt are 6 cm to 10 cm. Preferably, the widths of the first endless belt and the second endless belt are selected to be at least 2 mm larger than the width of the packaging bag.

[0035] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the first endless belt and the second endless belt are made of an elastic material. By using an elastic material, packaging bags of different thicknesses can be easily transported between the first endless belt and the second endless belt without the use of soft guide rollers or moving shafts. The elastic material can be, for example, silicone, polyurethane, or other elastic material having desirable frictional properties.

[0036] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the conveying device includes a chamber for temporarily accommodating a plurality of individual packaging bags. The individual packaging bags are stored in the chamber in a first-in, first-out manner. The chamber may have a capacity capable of temporarily accommodating, for example, 3 to 20 individual packaging bags.

[0037] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the arrangement comprises a pair of rollers arranged in association with a first imaging device and configured to transport packaging bags to the first imaging device.

[0038] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the first imaging device and / or the second imaging device comprises a first polarizer and a second polarizer on which a strip of a packaging bag can be placed between them, a camera for imaging a first surface of the strip of the packaging bag through the second polarizer, and means for changing the polarization direction of the first polarizer or the second polarizer.

[0039] The first and second polarizers of the imaging device are linear polarizers. A linear polarizer is an optical filter that transmits light waves of a specific polarization and blocks light waves of other polarizations. In other words, a linear polarizer works by transmitting light that vibrates in a specific direction (polarization direction) and absorbing or reflecting light that vibrates in other directions. The first and second polarizers are intended to improve the visibility of the seam (heat seal). The polarization of light in the seam is different from the polarization of other parts. The first and second polarizers are arranged parallel to each other and spaced apart. The distance between the first and second polarizers can be, for example, 10 mm to 150 mm. The strip of the packaging bag to be imaged is transported between the first and second polarizers such that the first surface of the strip faces the first surface of the second polarizer, and the second surface of the strip faces the first surface of the first polarizer.

[0040] The polarization direction of the first or second polarizer can be changed by means for changing the polarization direction. The polarization direction of the polarizer is electrically or mechanically controllable. The means for changing the polarization direction of the first or second polarizer may include an actuator that rotates the polarizer to mechanically control the polarization direction, or it may include a control unit configured to electrically control the polarization direction by changing the voltage or current supplied to the polarizer.

[0041] The camera is positioned to image the first surface of the strip of the packaging bag through a second polarizer. The camera is configured to image the strip using different polarization directions of the first or second polarizer. The camera is preferably a digital camera. One or more lenses and / or mirrors may be placed in the optical path between the camera and the second polarizer.

[0042] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the means for changing the polarization direction of the first polarizer or the second polarizer is configured to change the polarization direction between a first polarization direction in which the polarization directions of the first polarizer and the second polarizer are perpendicular, and a second polarization direction in which the polarization directions of the first polarizer and the second polarizer are parallel.

[0043] When the polarization directions of the first and second polarizers are perpendicular, the polarizers can block the passage of light from the second face of the first polarizer to the second face of the second polarizer, provided that the polarization state of the light has not changed due to interaction with the strip of the packaging bag. The areas where the polarization has changed will appear bright in the image. When the polarization directions of the first and second polarizers are parallel, the polarizers allow light vibrating in the second polarization direction to pass from the second face of the first polarizer to the second face of the second polarizer. If the polarization state of the light has changed due to interaction with the strip of the packaging bag, these areas will appear dark in the image.

[0044] The camera is preferably configured to capture images of the packaging strip both when the polarization directions of the first and second polarizers are perpendicular and when the polarization directions of the first and second polarizers are parallel. The advantage of this configuration is that it improves the detection accuracy of the seams of the packaging.

[0045] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a first imaging device and / or a second imaging device comprises a first light source for illuminating a second surface of a strip of a packaging bag through a first polarizer. The first light source is positioned on the second surface of the first polarizer. The amount and polarization state of light incident on the camera from the first light source depend not only on the properties of the strip of the packaging bag through which the light passes, but also on the polarization directions of the first and second polarizers.

[0046] The first light source is preferably positioned to provide essentially uniform light distribution to the second surface of the strip. The first light source can be a light panel positioned in contact with or spaced apart from the second surface of the first polarizer. The first light source may include one or more LEDs. The LEDs may be arranged together in an LED array or matrix. The imaging device may include a control unit configured to switch the first light source on and off.

[0047] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a first imaging device and / or a second imaging device comprises a second light source for illuminating a first surface of a strip of packaging material. The second light source is preferably located in the space between a first polarizer and a second polarizer. A portion of the light emitted from the second light source is reflected from the first surface of the strip of packaging material, passes through the second polarizer, and enters the camera. The amount and polarization state of the light entering the camera from the second light source depend not only on the properties of the strip of packaging material but also on the polarization direction of the second polarizer.

[0048] The second light source is preferably arranged to provide essentially uniform light distribution to the first surface of the strip. The second light source may include one or more LEDs. The LEDs may be arranged together in an LED array or matrix. The imaging device may include a control unit configured to switch the second light source on and off.

[0049] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a first imaging device and / or a second imaging device includes a reflector for reflecting light from a second light source toward a first surface of a strip of a packaging bag, the reflector having an aperture through which the first surface of the strip of the packaging bag can be imaged. The reflector is preferably located in the space between a first polarizer and a second polarizer. The reflector is positioned such that its opening faces the first surface of the first polarizer. The reflector is preferably formed together with the second light source to provide essentially uniform light distribution to the first surface of the strip of the packaging bag. The aperture through which the strip of the packaging bag is imaged faces the first surface of the second polarizer. The shape of the aperture can be, for example, circular or rectangular. The diameter of a circular aperture can be, for example, 5 mm to 30 mm, and the length of each side of a rectangular aperture can be, for example, 5 mm to 30 mm.

[0050] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the reflector is a tunnel-shaped reflector. The strip of the packaging bag can be transported inside the tunnel-shaped reflector.

[0051] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a second light source is mounted in an opening of the reflector. Preferably, the second light source is mounted in an opening of the reflector such that most of the light emitted from the second light source is directed toward the reflective surface of the reflector, and the light is reflected from that reflective surface toward the first surface of the packaging bag strip.

[0052] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a first imaging device and / or a second imaging device comprises a transparent panel for supporting a strip of packaging bag. The transparent panel is positioned in the space between a first polarizer and a second polarizer and supports a second surface of the strip of packaging bag. The transparent panel may be made of glass or acrylic.

[0053] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a drug packaging machine for dispensing medication to patients. The drug packaging machine comprises an arrangement according to the present invention for handling strips of packaging bags.

[0054] The drug packaging machine may include a chamber into which a strip of a packaging bag can be inserted. The strip of the packaging bag is transported from the chamber through a first imaging device, a transport device, and a second imaging device to the exit of the drug packaging machine. The drug packaging machine separates the packaging bags from the strip and dispenses one bag at a time to the patient. For this purpose, the drug packaging machine may include a cutting device configured to separate the packaging bags from the strip by cutting the strip transversely along the seam between the packaging bags. The separated packaging bags can be transported to the exit from which the patient can take the packaging bags.

[0055] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a drug packaging machine comprises a cutting device arranged in conjunction with a second imaging device. The cutting device may be located between the second imaging device and the outlet of a conveying device. The cutting device is used to separate the packaging bag from the strip of the packaging bag by cutting the strip transversely along the detected seam portion.

[0056] The exemplary embodiments of the invention presented herein should not be construed as limiting the scope of the appended claims. In this document, the verb “comprise” is used as an open limitation, not excluding the existence of features not described herein. Features described in the dependent claims may be freely combined with each other unless otherwise specified. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0057] [Figure 1] An arrangement according to one embodiment of the present invention is shown. [Figure 2] This shows a drug packaging machine according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] An example of an imaging device is shown. [Figure 4] Other examples of imaging devices are shown. [Figure 5] An example of a conveying device is shown. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0058] In different embodiments, the same reference numerals are used for identical or similar components.

[0059] Figure 1 shows an arrangement according to one embodiment of the present invention. This arrangement is used to handle strips 100 of a sachet 101. Each sachet 101 contains medication that a patient is to take at a predetermined time.

[0060] This configuration comprises a transport device 200 and two imaging devices 300, 400. Imaging device 300 is positioned in relation to the inlet 201 of the transport device 200 and is configured to capture at least one image of the packaging bag 101 before it is transported from the inlet 201 to the transport device 200. Imaging device 300 includes a processing unit (not shown in Figure 1) configured to process the captured image(s) to determine patient information and drug-related information of the packaging bag 101. Patient information and drug-related information may include a patient identifier (e.g., name and / or identification number) as well as the date and time of dispensing. This information allows for the detection of situations where the packaging bag 101 is torn or where the wrong strip 100 of the packaging bag 101 has been inserted into the drug packaging machine. The processing unit may also be configured to process the captured image to detect the end of the strip 100. The imaging device 400 is positioned in association with the outlet 202 of the transport device 200 and is configured to capture at least one image of the packaging bags 101 after they have been transported out of the transport device 200 from the outlet 202. The imaging device 400 includes a processing unit (not shown in Figure 1) configured to process the captured image(s) to detect the seam between two packaging bags 101.

[0061] The conveying device 200 has an inlet 201 equipped with a pair of rollers 203 for conveying the packaging bags 101 into the conveying device 200. The rollers 203 are driven by an electric motor 204. The conveying device 200 has an outlet 202 equipped with another pair of rollers 205 for conveying the packaging bags 101 out of the conveying device 200. The rollers 205 are driven by an electric motor 206. The number of packaging bags 101 inside the conveying device 200 can be changed by controlling the operation of the electric motors 204 and 206.

[0062] Figure 2 shows a drug packaging machine according to one embodiment of the present invention for dispensing medication to a patient. The drug packaging machine 500 comprises a chamber 501 into which strips 100 of a packaging bag 101 are inserted. The drug packaging machine 500 comprises a pair of rollers 502 driven by an electric motor 503 for transporting the packaging bag 101 from the chamber 501 to the inlet 201 of a transport device 200. The transport device 200 is the same as that shown in Figure 1. The packaging bag 101 is transported into the transport device 200 from the inlet 201 using a pair of rollers 203. The rollers 203 are driven by an electric motor 204. The packaging bag 101 is transported out of the transport device 200 through the outlet 202 using a pair of rollers 205. The rollers 205 are driven by an electric motor 206. The drug packaging machine 500 is equipped with a belt conveyor 504 for transporting the packaging bags 101 from the outlet 202 to the outlet 505 of the drug packaging machine 500.

[0063] The drug packaging machine 500 includes an imaging device 300 positioned in association with the inlet 201. The imaging device 300 is configured to capture at least one image of the packaging bag 101 before the packaging bag 101 is transported to the inlet 201 and to process the captured image(s) to determine patient information and drug-related information of the packaging bag 101. The drug packaging machine 500 also includes another imaging device 400 positioned in association with the outlet 202. The imaging device 400 is configured to capture at least one image of the packaging bag 101 after the packaging bag 101 has been transported from the outlet 202 and to process the captured image(s) to detect the seam between two packaging bags 101.

[0064] The drug packaging machine 500 includes a cutting device 506 positioned between the imaging device 400 and the belt conveyor 504. The cutting device 506 is configured to cut the strip 100 transversely at the seam portion detected by the imaging device 400. The separated packaging bags 101 are transported by the belt conveyor 504 to the exit 505, from which the patient can remove the packaging bags 101.

[0065] The drug packaging machine 500 includes electric motors 204, 206, 503, imaging devices 300, 400, a belt conveyor 504, and a cutting device 506, and a control unit 507 configured to control their operation.

[0066] Figure 3 shows an example of an imaging device that may be positioned in relation to the entrance of the transport device. The imaging device 300 comprises two polarizers 301 and 302 between which a strip 100 consisting of two packaging bags 101 and 102 is positioned, and a camera 303 that images the underside of the strip 100 through the polarizer 302. The imaging device 300 includes a control unit 304 connected to the polarizer 301 and configured to change the polarization direction of the polarizer 301 between a first polarization direction in which the polarization directions of polarizers 301 and 302 are perpendicular, and a second polarization direction in which the polarization directions of polarizers 301 and 302 are parallel.

[0067] The imaging device 300 includes a light source 305 positioned at a distance from the upper surface of the polarizer 301. The light source 305 is used to illuminate the upper surface of the strip 100 through the polarizer 301. The amount and polarization state of light incident from the light source 305 to the camera 303 depend not only on the properties of the strip 100 through which the light passes, but also on the polarization directions of the polarizers 301 and 302. The imaging device 300 includes a control unit 306 connected to the light source 305 and configured to switch the light source 305 on and off.

[0068] The imaging device 300 includes a reflector 307 positioned in the space between polarizers 301 and 302, with its aperture 308 facing the lower surface of the strip 100, and a light source 309 attached to the aperture 308 of the reflector 307. The reflector 307 is used to reflect light from the light source 309 toward the lower surface of the strip 100. Some of the light is reflected from the lower surface of the strip 100, passes through the polarizer 302, and enters the camera 303. The reflector 307 is equipped with an aperture (not shown in Figure 3), through which the lower surface of the strip 100 is imaged. The amount and polarization state of light incident from the light source 309 to the camera 303 depend not only on the characteristics of the strip 100 but also on the polarization direction of the polarizer 302. A control unit 306 is connected to the light source 309 and configured to switch the light source 309 on and off.

[0069] Camera 303 is configured to capture images of strip 100 using different polarization directions of polarizer 301 and different settings of light sources 305 and 309. Imaging device 300 includes a processing unit 310 connected to camera 303 and configured to process the captured images to determine patient information and drug-related information of the packaging bags 101 and 102.

[0070] Figure 4 shows another example of an imaging device that can be positioned in relation to the exit of a transport device. The imaging device 400 comprises two polarizers 401 and 402 in which a strip 100 consisting of two packaging bags 101 and 102 is placed between them, and a camera 403 that images the upper surface of the strip 100 through the polarizer 402. The imaging device 400 comprises a control unit 404 connected to the polarizer 402 and configured to change the polarization direction of the polarizer 402 between a first polarization direction in which the polarization directions of polarizers 401 and 402 are perpendicular, and a second polarization direction in which the polarization directions of polarizers 401 and 402 are parallel.

[0071] The imaging device 400 includes a light source 405 positioned in contact with the underside of the polarizer 401. The light source 405 is used to illuminate the underside of the strip 100 through the polarizer 401. The amount and polarization state of light incident from the light source 405 to the camera 403 depend on the properties of the strip 100 and the transparent panel 406 through which the light passes, as well as the polarization directions of the polarizers 401 and 402. The transparent panel 406 is used to support the strip 100. The imaging device 400 includes a control unit 407 connected to the light source 405 and configured to switch the light source 405 on and off.

[0072] The imaging device 400 includes a reflector 408 positioned in the space between polarizers 401 and 402 such that its aperture 409 faces the upper surface of the strip 100, and a light source 410 attached to the aperture 409 of the reflector 408. The reflector 408 is used to reflect light from the light source 410 toward the upper surface of the strip 100. Some of the light is reflected from the upper surface of the strip 100, passes through the polarizer 402, and enters the camera 403. The reflector 408 is equipped with an aperture 411 through which the upper surface of the strip 100 is imaged. The amount and polarization state of light incident from the light source 410 to the camera 403 depend not only on the characteristics of the strip 100 but also on the polarization direction of the polarizer 402. A control unit 407 is connected to the light source 410 and is configured to switch the light source 410 on and off.

[0073] Camera 403 is configured to capture images of the strip 100 using different polarization directions of the polarizer 402 and different settings of the light sources 405 and 410. The imaging device 400 includes a processing unit 412 connected to camera 403 and configured to process the captured images in order to detect the position of the seam portion 103 between the packaging bags 101 and 102.

[0074] Figure 5 shows an example of a conveying device for transporting strips of packaging bags. The conveying device 600 comprises two endless belts 601 and 602 and three sets of guide rollers 603, 604, and 605. Guide roller 603 is positioned to guide endless belt 601 along a first path, and guide roller 604 is positioned to guide endless belt 602 along a second path. Guide roller 605 is positioned to guide endless belts 601 and 602 together along a third path. Endless belts 601 and 602 are driven by a drive system (not shown in Figure 5) that rotates the upper and lower guide rollers 605. The intermediate guide roller 605 and the other guide rollers 603 and 604 are rotated by the moving endless belts 601 and 602. Guide rollers 603, 604, and 605 are supported by their shafts 606, 607, and 608 between two side plates 609 (only one is shown in Figure 5).

[0075] The packaged bags 101 being transported are sequentially received from the inlet 610 into the conveying device 600. The inlet 610 has an inlet roller 611 positioned in conjunction with a guide roller 603'. The packaged bags 101 are received into the conveying device 600 between the inlet roller 611 and the guide roller 603'. The inlet roller 611 has its shaft 612 supported between side plates 609. The inlet roller 611 has a groove 613. The inlet roller 611 is made of foam material, which provides good grip and allows packaged bags 101 of different thicknesses to move easily between the inlet roller 611 and the guide roller 603'.

[0076] The packaging bags 101 are transported from the inlet 610 to the outlet 614, between endless belts 601 and 602 around guide rollers 605. The packaging bags 101 are sealed between endless belts 601 and 602, preventing contact with surrounding machinery. The guide rollers 605 have a larger diameter in the center than at both ends. This shape allows the edges of the strip 100 to slightly shorten around the guide rollers 605, reducing stress on the strip 100. Since the endless belts 601 and 602 are made of elastic material, packaging bags 101 of different thicknesses can be easily transported between endless belts 601 and 602.

[0077] The packaging bags 101 are fed out of the conveying device 600 from the outlet 614. The outlet 614 has an outlet roller 615 positioned in association with a guide roller 603''. The packaging bags 101 are fed out of the conveying device 600 between the outlet roller 615 and the guide roller 603''. The outlet roller 615 has its shaft 616 supported between side plates 609. The outlet roller 615 has a groove 617. The outlet roller 615 is made of foam material, which provides good grip and allows packaging bags 101 of different thicknesses to move easily between the outlet roller 615 and the guide roller 603''.

[0078] The drawings depict only advantageous exemplary embodiments of the present invention. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the present invention is not limited to the examples described above and can be modified within the scope of the claims presented below. While several possible embodiments of the present invention are described in the dependent claims, they should not be construed as limiting the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. An arrangement for handling strips of packaging bags, A conveying device for conveying strips of the aforementioned packaging bags, comprising an inlet for receiving the packaging bags, an outlet for discharging the packaging bags, and means for conveying the packaging bags from the inlet to the outlet, A first imaging device positioned in relation to the entrance and configured to capture at least one image of the packaging bag before it is transported to the entrance, A second imaging device is positioned in relation to the outlet and configured to capture at least one image of the packaging bag after it has been transported from the outlet. An arrangement characterized by comprising:

2. The arrangement according to claim 1, characterized in that it includes means for processing at least one image captured by the first imaging device in order to determine patient-related information and drug-related information of the packaging bag.

3. The arrangement according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising means for processing at least one image captured by the second imaging device in order to detect the seam portion between the packaging bags.

4. The arrangement according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the means for transporting the packaging bags from the entrance to the exit is arranged to transport at least three packaging bags simultaneously.

5. The means for transporting the aforementioned packaged bag from the entrance to the exit is, The first Endless Belt, A plurality of first guide elements arranged to guide the first endless belt along a first path, wherein at least one of the first guide elements is a first guide roller, The second Endless Belt, A plurality of second guide elements arranged to guide the second endless belt along a second path, wherein at least one of the second guide elements is a second guide roller, A plurality of third guide rollers arranged to guide the first endless belt and the second endless belt along a third path, wherein the packaging bag is transported along the third path between the first endless belt and the second endless belt from the entrance to the exit, Means for rotating at least one of the first, second, or third guide rollers and The arrangement according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized by including the following:

6. The arrangement according to claim 5, characterized in that the means for rotating at least one of the first, second, or third guide rollers comprises an electric motor connected to the at least one guide roller.

7. The arrangement according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that the conveying device comprises an inlet roller positioned at the inlet in association with one of the plurality of first guide elements.

8. The arrangement according to any one of claims 5 to 7, characterized in that the conveying device comprises an outlet roller positioned at the outlet in association with one of the plurality of first guide elements.

9. The arrangement according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the conveying device comprises a chamber for temporarily accommodating a plurality of individual packaging bags.

10. The first imaging device and / or the second imaging device, A first polarizer and a second polarizer that can be positioned between the strips of the packaging bag, A camera for imaging the first surface of the strip of the packaging bag through the second polarizer, Means for changing the polarization direction of the first polarizer or the second polarizer The arrangement according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized by comprising:

11. The arrangement according to claim 10, characterized in that the means for changing the polarization direction of the first polarizer or the second polarizer is configured to change the polarization direction between a first polarization direction in which the polarization directions of the first polarizer and the second polarizer are perpendicular, and a second polarization direction in which the polarization directions of the first polarizer and the second polarizer are parallel.

12. The arrangement according to 10 or 11, characterized in that the first imaging device and / or the second imaging device comprises a first light source for illuminating a second surface of the strip of the packaging bag through the first polarizer.

13. The arrangement according to any one of claims 10 to 12, characterized in that the first imaging device and / or the second imaging device comprises a second light source for illuminating the first surface of the strip of the packaging bag.

14. The arrangement according to 13, wherein the first imaging device and / or the second imaging device includes a reflector for reflecting light from the second light source toward the first surface of the strip of the packaging bag, the reflector having an aperture through which the first surface of the strip of the packaging bag can be imaged.

15. A drug packaging machine characterized by having the arrangement described in any one of claims 1 to 14 for handling strips of packaging bags.

Images