Medicine dispensing device

Abstract

[Problem] To increase the possibility of dispensing medicine one at a time to a dispensing port. [Solution] A conveyance unit (13) included in a medicine dispensing cassette (1) comprises a first conveyance unit (133), a second conveyance unit (134), and a guiding unit (132). The first conveyance unit and the second conveyance unit are capable of conveying medicine such that a first speed of medicine guided from the first conveyance unit to a dispensing port (18) is faster than a second speed of medicine guided from the second conveyance unit to the first conveyance unit.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a medicine dispensing device. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a drug feeder that includes a rotary container whose central portion is recessed so that drugs can be randomly stored and whose peripheral portion is flanged so that drugs can be arranged in an arc, and an outlet portion that introduces drugs from above the peripheral portion to the outside as an output. The drug feeder in Patent Document 1 includes a width regulating member that regulates the width of the output, a height regulating member that regulates the height of the output, and a clamping and delivering mechanism that consists of a belt feed mechanism and reaches the inside of the peripheral portion of the rotary container, clamps the output together with the width regulating member, and delivers it at a higher speed than the peripheral portion when the rotary container is rotating. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 5950876 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The drug feeder of Patent Document 1 adjusts the width between the width restricting member and the clamping / discharging mechanism, and the height between the periphery of the rotating container and the height restricting member, according to the size of the drug sample. This allows the drug feeder to drop drugs one by one from the discharge section. However, the size of the drug sample may differ from the size of the drug actually contained in the center of the rotating container. For example, in the case of a half-tablet of drug, the size of the drug sample may differ from the size of the drug actually contained in the center of the rotating container. This is because cutting one drug in half produces two half-tablets, but if one drug is not cut evenly, the sizes of the half-tablets will differ from each other.

[0005] If the two drugs have different sizes, a drug having a width smaller than that of the width restricting member and the clamping / delivering mechanism may be inserted between the width restricting member and the clamping / delivering mechanism without being clamped by the width restricting member and the clamping / delivering mechanism. If the drug is inserted between the width restricting member and the clamping / delivering mechanism, it may be pushed by the subsequent drug and fall from the discharge portion together with the subsequent drug.

[0006] An object of one aspect of the present invention is to provide a medicine dispensing device that can increase the likelihood of dispensing medicines one by one to a dispensing outlet, thereby dispensing an accurate number of medicines. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In order to solve the above problem, one embodiment of the present invention provides a drug dispensing device that transports an input drug to a dispensing outlet, thereby dispensing the drug from the dispensing outlet, and includes a receiving section that receives the drug, and a transporting section that has a circular portion that is located outside the receiving section when viewed in a plane and transports the drug to the dispensing outlet, and the transporting section includes a first transporting section that is adjacent to the dispensing outlet and transports the drug while the drug is placed thereon, a second transporting section that is located inside the first transporting section and transports the drug while the drug is placed thereon, and a guide section that guides the drug from the second transporting section to the first transporting section and guides the drug from the first transporting section to the dispensing outlet, and the first transporting section and the second transporting section are capable of transporting the drug so that a first speed of the drug guided from the first transporting section to the dispensing outlet is greater than a second speed of the drug guided from the second transporting section to the first transporting section.

[0008] In addition, in order to solve the above-mentioned problems, a drug dispensing device according to one embodiment of the present invention is a drug dispensing device that transports an input drug to a dispensing outlet, thereby dispensing the drug from the dispensing outlet, and comprises: a receiving section that receives the drug; and a transport section that has an annular portion located outside the receiving section when viewed in a plane and transports the drug to the dispensing outlet, and the transport section comprises: an annular transport section that is adjacent to the dispensing outlet and transports the drug while the drug is placed thereon; and a guide section that guides the drug from the annular transport section to the dispensing outlet, and comprises: at least one side wall on the loading surface of the annular transport section on which the drug is placed that defines a transport path for the drug; and a rotating plate that rotates around a rotation axis extending in a direction perpendicular to the loading surface and has a portion protruding from the at least one side wall at a position of the annular transport section adjacent to the dispensing outlet. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to one aspect of the present invention, it is possible to increase the likelihood of dispensing medicines one by one into the dispensing opening, thereby enabling the accurate number of medicines to be dispensed. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] Reference numeral 1001 is a perspective view showing a state in which a medicine dispensing cassette is attached to a motor base, reference numeral 1002 is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration of the motor base, and reference numeral 1003 is a diagram showing an example of the placement of a count sensor. [Figure 2] 10A and 10B are diagrams showing specific examples of medicines to be dispensed by the medicine dispensing cassette. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration of a medicine dispensing cassette. [Figure 4] Reference numeral 4001 is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration of the medicine dispensing cassette with the cover removed, and reference numeral 4002 is a plan view showing a part of the medicine dispensing cassette in this state. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing an example of a structure in which a receiving section, an annular conveying section of a conveying section, and a rotating plate are combined. [Figure 6]Reference numeral 6001 is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the receiving section and the annular conveying section of the conveying section, and reference numeral 6002 is a schematic diagram showing the structure shown in reference numeral 6001 as viewed from another direction. [Figure 7] FIG. [Figure 8] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating configuration examples of a height restricting body and a width restricting body. [Figure 9] Reference numeral 9001 is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration of a guide member, and reference numeral 9002 is a plan view showing an example of the configuration of a first displacement member and a second displacement member. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is a partially enlarged view of the medicine dispensing cassette. [Figure 11] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a medicine dispensing cassette and a motor base. [Figure 12] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of an operation of the medicine dispensing cassette. [Figure 13] FIG. 2 is a plan view showing the entire medicine dispensing cassette with a cover removed. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] [Embodiment 1] An embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to Figures 1 to 12. First, a state in which a medicine dispensing cassette 1 (a medicine dispensing device) is attached to a motor base 10 will be described with reference to Figure 1. In Figure 1, reference numeral 1001 is a perspective view showing a state in which the medicine dispensing cassette 1 is attached to the motor base 10, reference numeral 1002 is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration of the motor base 10, and reference numeral 1003 is a diagram showing an example of the arrangement of the count sensor 101.

[0012] As shown by reference numeral 1001 in Fig. 1, when the medicine dispensing cassette 1 is connected to the motor base 10, the medicine dispensing process by the medicine dispensing cassette 1 is realized under the control of the motor base 10. The medicine dispensing cassette 1 is a member that feeds inserted medicines sequentially to a dispensing outlet 18 (see reference numeral 1003 in Fig. 1) and dispenses the medicines from the dispensing outlet 18. The motor base 10 is a member that controls the operation of the medicine dispensing cassette 1 when the medicine dispensing cassette 1 is placed on and connected to it.

[0013] This specification will be described with an example of a medicine dispensing cassette that dispenses any type of medicine in unit amounts (e.g., one at a time) by changing the driving conditions. That is, the description will be given with an example of a medicine dispensing cassette that is provided together with a fixed cassette that dispenses a predetermined type of medicine and a manual dispensing unit that manually distributes medicines, in a medicine packaging device that packages medicines for patients to take according to prescription information. However, the functions of the medicine dispensing cassette described in this specification can also be applied to, for example, a tablet counter that counts the number of tablets and a dispenser that dispenses one prescription amount of medicine into one container.

[0014] Before describing the specific configurations of the medicine dispensing cassette 1 and the motor base 10, specific examples of medicines to be dispensed by the medicine dispensing cassette 1 will be described below.

[0015] [Specific examples of dividable tablets] The medicines to be dispensed by the medicine dispensing cassette 1 are mainly tablets (oral medications), and refer to medicines not contained in medicine containers that cannot be ingested (e.g., injections), but rather medicines that are not contained in medicine containers that cannot be ingested, or medicines themselves that are not packaged in packaging that cannot be ingested. In this specification, the medicines to be dispensed are described as divided tablets (e.g., tablets that are divided into approximately half (half tablets)) (hereinafter referred to as divided tablets). Note that the medicine dispensing cassette 1 may also dispense undivided tablets (single tablets) or capsules, but functions effectively when handling medicines that are easily damaged or breakable.

[0016] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing specific examples of medicines to be dispensed by the medicine dispensing cassette 1. Reference numerals 2001 and 2002 in FIG. 2 show an example of a sugar-coated tablet and an example of a dividable tablet of the sugar-coated tablet. The sugar-coated tablet of reference numeral 2002 has an uneven cross-sectional shape when divided, with the central portions of the top and bottom surfaces thereof being uneven. Therefore, the sugar-coated tablet or dividable tablet of the sugar-coated tablet is unstable and prone to rolling when placed on a support surface.

[0017] Reference numeral 2003 in Fig. 2 shows an example of a tablet that is approximately rectangular in shape when viewed in plan and has convex top and bottom surfaces in a cross-sectional shape when divided, and an example of a dividable version of the tablet. Reference numeral 2004 in Fig. 2 shows an example of a tablet that is oval in shape when viewed in plan and has convex top and bottom surfaces in a cross-sectional shape when divided, and an example of a dividable version of the tablet. The tablets shown by reference numerals 2003 and 2004, like the sugar-coated tablet shown by reference numeral 2002, have uneven central portions of the top and bottom surfaces in a cross-sectional shape when divided, making them unstable and prone to rolling when placed on a support surface.

[0018] Reference numeral 2005 in Fig. 2 shows an example of a tablet that is substantially square in shape when viewed in plan and has substantially flat top and bottom surfaces in a cross-sectional shape when divided, and an example of a dividable tablet of the tablet. Reference numeral 2007 in Fig. 2 shows an example of a tablet that is hexagonal in shape when viewed in plan and has substantially flat top and bottom surfaces in a cross-sectional shape when divided, and an example of a dividable tablet of the tablet. As shown by reference numerals 2005 and 2007, tablets that have a substantially flat cross-sectional shape when divided are stable and do not roll easily even when placed on a support surface. However, as the substantially flat central area becomes smaller, the stability of the tablet when placed on the support surface decreases.

[0019] 2 shows an example of a tablet having a substantially triangular shape in plan view and having convex top and bottom surfaces in a cross section when divided, and an example of a dividable tablet of the tablet shown by reference numeral 2006. The tablet shown by reference numeral 2007 has uneven central portions of the top and bottom surfaces in a cross section when divided, making it unstable and prone to rolling when placed on a support surface.

[0020] Consider the case where a conventional medicine dispensing cassette is used to dispense the tablet and dividable tablet indicated by reference numeral 2001 (however, these tablets and dividable tablets have a relatively small, substantially flat central portion) and the tablets and dividable tablets indicated by reference numerals 2002 to 2007. In this case, when these tablets or dividable tablets are dispensed from the medicine dispensing cassette to the dispensing outlet, there is a risk that multiple tablets or dividable tablets may be dispensed in succession (i.e., simultaneously). That is, depending on the shape of the medicine or the stability of the medicine when placed on the mounting surface, there is a risk that multiple medicines may be dispensed in succession from the dispensing outlet. In this case, the count sensor will count multiple medicines as a single medicine. Furthermore, in this case, more medicines than the target number (the number specified as the number of medicines to be dispensed) will be dispensed. The medicine dispensing cassette 1 enables medicines to be dispensed one by one from the dispensing outlet 18 regardless of the shape or stability of the medicines described above, thereby enabling the accurate number to be dispensed.

[0021] In the following description, unless otherwise specified, the case of dispensing a dividable tablet will be described as an example.

[0022] [Motor base configuration] As indicated by reference numeral 1002 in FIG. 1, the motor base 10 includes a count sensor 101, a connector 102, and driving members 103 to 106.

[0023] As indicated by reference numeral 1003 in FIG. 1, the count sensor 101 is a sensor that detects dividable tablets that have been sent out from the annular conveying unit 131 of the medicine dispensing cassette 1 and passed (fall) through the dispensing outlet 18. The count sensor 101 counts the number of dividable tablets by detecting them as they pass through the dispensing outlet 18. The count sensor 101 is positioned so that a detection range for the target is formed on the path of the dividable tablets sent out from the annular conveying unit 131 (see the "optical axis" indicated by reference numeral 1003 in FIG. 1).

[0024] The count sensor 101 is a so-called light-receiving sensor that determines the presence or absence of an object within a detection range by receiving (or not receiving) light emitted from a light-emitting unit with a light-receiving unit located opposite the light-emitting unit. However, the count sensor 101 may also be a so-called reflection-type sensor that determines the presence or absence of an object within a detection range by receiving (or not receiving) light emitted from the light-emitting unit by reflecting the light off the object with the light-receiving unit. In this case, the light-emitting unit and the light-receiving unit are arranged side by side.

[0025] The connector 102 supplies power to the medicine dispensing cassette 1 by being connected to a connector (not shown) of the medicine dispensing cassette 1. The driving members 103 and 104 are connected to a first rotation mechanism that rotates the first rotating body 121 of the medicine dispensing cassette 1 and a second rotation mechanism that rotates the first conveying unit 133 of the annular conveying unit 131, respectively, and supply power to the first rotation mechanism and the second rotation mechanism. The driving members 105 and 106 are connected to a height restrictor moving mechanism that moves the height restrictor 14 (see FIG. 8) of the medicine dispensing cassette 1 and a width restrictor moving mechanism that moves the width restrictor 15 (see FIG. 8), respectively. The driving members 105 and 106 supply power to the height restrictor moving mechanism and the width restrictor moving mechanism.

[0026] As shown in FIG. 11, the motor base 10 also includes a control unit 50 and a storage unit 60, which will be described later.

[0027] Note that, although the motor base 10 is described as including the control unit 50 and the memory unit 60, this is not limiting. For example, the control unit 50 and the memory unit 60 may be realized by a control device that is provided separately from the motor base 10 and the medicine dispensing cassette 1 and controls the operation of the medicine dispensing cassette 1. In this case, the control device is connected to the motor base 10 and controls the operation of the motor base 10, thereby controlling the operation of the medicine dispensing cassette 1.

[0028] Although the medicine dispensing cassette 1 and the motor base 10 are separate mechanisms, they may be integrated. In this case, for example, the medicine dispensing cassette 1 may include the count sensor 101, the control unit 50, and the memory unit 60.

[0029] [Configuration of drug dispensing cassette] Fig. 3 is a perspective view showing a configuration example of the medicine dispensing cassette 1. Reference numeral 4001 in Fig. 4 is a perspective view showing a configuration example of the medicine dispensing cassette 1 in a state where the cover part 11 is removed, and reference numeral 4002 is a plan view showing a part of the medicine dispensing cassette 1 in this state. Fig. 13 is a plan view showing the entire medicine dispensing cassette 1 in this state.

[0030] As shown in Figures 3, 4 and 13, the medicine dispensing cassette 1 mainly includes a cover section 11, a receiving section 12, a transport section 13, a height restricting body 14, a width restricting body 15, a guide member 16, and a transport assist mechanism 17. In the following description, when Figures 3 and 4 are referred to, please also refer to Figure 13 as appropriate.

[0031] In the medicine dispensing cassette 1, a dividable tablet is placed into a receiver 12 capable of receiving a dividable tablet. The dividable tablet is then transferred from the first rotor 121 of the receiver 12 to the annular conveying section 131 of the conveying section 13 in the transfer area Ar1 due to the rotation of the first rotor 121. The dividable tablet then falls from the annular conveying section 131 to the dispensing outlet 18 due to the rotation of the annular conveying section 131 and the guidance of the guide section 132 of the conveying section 13. The rotation of the first rotor 121 and the annular conveying section 131 is clockwise as viewed from above in FIG. 13 , and corresponds to the rotation during the forward feeding operation described below. The dividable tablets on the annular conveying section 131 are aligned in a row by the height restrictor 14 and the width restrictor 15. Each component will be described in detail below.

[0032] <Cover section / discharge outlet> The cover part 11 is a part of the housing provided on the upper part (the input side of the dividable tablet) of the medicine dispensing cassette 1, and protects the inside of the medicine dispensing cassette 1. The dispensing outlet 18 is an opening through which the dividable tablet transported by the annular transport part 131 falls.

[0033] <Receiving section / Transporting section> The receiver 12 and the transport unit 13 function as a medicine transport mechanism that transports the inserted dividable tablet to the dispensing outlet 18. Specifically, in the case of forward feeding, the receiver 12 and the transport unit 13 transport the inserted dividable tablet toward the dispensing outlet 18. In the case of reverse feeding, the transport unit 13 transports the dividable tablet placed on the transport unit 13 in the direction opposite to the forward feeding direction. In other words, the transport unit 13 is switchable between a forward feeding operation that feeds the dividable tablet forward and a reverse feeding operation that feeds the dividable tablet backward. However, like the transport unit 13, the receiver 12 may also be switchable between a forward feeding operation and a reverse feeding operation. Note that forward feeding may be referred to as forward rotation, and reverse feeding may be referred to as reverse rotation.

[0034] 4, the receiving portion 12 includes a first rotating body 121 and a partition wall 122. The first rotating body 121 defines the bottom of the receiving portion 12, and the partition wall 122 defines the side wall of the receiving portion 12.

[0035] The first rotating body 121 is a rotating member (inner disk, inner ring) that rotates to move the inserted dividable tablet toward the outer periphery (radially outward). Specifically, as shown in Figures 3 and 4, the first rotating body 121 is a disk-shaped rotating member that rotates around a first shaft portion 121A.

[0036] 3 and 4, a partition wall 122 is erected along the outer periphery of the first rotor 121. As a result, an inserted dividable tablet is placed on the first rotor 121. Specifically, the inserted dividable tablet is contained in a storage space partitioned by the first rotor 121 and the partition wall 122. As shown in FIG. 6, which will be described later, the partition wall 122 has a plurality of teeth 122A located on the outer periphery of the upper part (+Z-axis direction) of the partition wall 122. The plurality of teeth 122A engage with planetary gears 134B to 134D of the second conveying unit 134, as will be described later. The partition wall 122 has a plurality of teeth 122A, and thus functions as a sun gear of a planetary gear mechanism.

[0037] The first rotor 121 is disposed so as to be inclined with respect to the XY plane (for example, the mounting surface of the medicine dispensing cassette 1). In other words, the first shaft portion 121A of the first rotor 121 is disposed so as to be inclined at a predetermined angle with respect to the Z-axis direction (vertical direction).

[0038] 3 and 4, a plurality of ridges 121B for preventing the dividable tablet fed into the first rotor 121 from rolling on the upper surface are radially provided on the upper surface of the first rotor 121. The dividable tablet fed into the first rotor 121 moves to the outer periphery due to the centrifugal force generated by the rotation of the first rotor 121.

[0039] The peripheral edge of each ridge 121B is inclined so as to be approximately parallel to the mounting surface 134A of the second conveying section 134 of the conveying section 13. This reduces the possibility of the dividable tablet being damaged when it moves between the receiving section 12 and the second conveying section 134 of the conveying section 13. In particular, this reduces the possibility of the dividable tablet being damaged when it is returned from the second conveying section 134 to the receiving section 12 during reverse feeding.

[0040] Generally, tablets are coated with a protective film around them to prevent breakage. However, in the case of dividable tablets, the divided surface is not coated with a protective film. Therefore, dividable tablets are more vulnerable to external impacts and more easily broken than undivided tablets. In other words, dividable tablets are prone to generating powder or fragments from the divided surface. Therefore, in a medicine dispensing cassette 1 that handles dividable tablets, it is useful for the peripheral edge to have the above-mentioned inclination.

[0041] The size and positional relationship between the first rotor 121 and the annular conveying section 131 of the conveying unit 13 are specified so that a gap is generated at least in the transfer area Ar1. The transfer area Ar1 is an area where the dividable tablet is transferred from the first rotor 121 to the second conveying section 134 of the conveying unit 13.

[0042] Generally, a gap is provided between the receiving unit 12 and the second conveying unit 134 so that the first rotor 121 does not come into contact with the second conveying unit 134. However, taking into consideration the transfer of medicines in the transfer area Ar1, the first rotor 121 and the second conveying unit 134 are not designed to intentionally provide a gap. When handling dividable tablets as in the medicine dispensing cassette 1, powder or fragments are likely to be generated as described above. Therefore, by intentionally providing a gap (at least making it larger than conventional), it becomes possible to cause the powder or fragments to fall below the first rotor 121 and be collected.

[0043] For example, consider the case where a different type of divisible tablet (second tablet) is dispensed after dispensing a divisible tablet (first tablet). Without a gap, more powder or fragments of the first divisible tablet remain on the first rotor 121 and the annular conveying unit 131 than with a gap. Therefore, without a gap, there is a higher chance that powder or fragments of the first divisible tablet will be dispensed together with the second divisible tablet than with a gap. From a safety perspective, it is undesirable for the divisible tablet to be dispensed to be dispensed together with powder or fragments of other divisible tablets. Therefore, it is useful to provide a gap in the medicine dispensing cassette 1 that handles divisible tablets. However, the gap must be large enough to prevent the divisible tablet from falling out.

[0044] The medicine dispensing cassette 1 also incorporates a first rotation mechanism that rotates the first rotor 121. The first rotation mechanism is realized by, for example, a first shaft 121A and a drive member (not shown) that rotates the first shaft 121A around the first rotation axis of the first shaft 121A. The drive member 103 of the motor base 10 is connected to the drive member of the first rotation mechanism, so that the first rotor 121 rotates by receiving power from the motor base 10. The drive of the first rotation mechanism is controlled by a rotor control unit 51 (see FIG. 11).

[0045] During forward feeding, the first rotor 121 and the annular conveying unit 131 rotate in the same direction so that the inserted dividable tablet is conveyed toward the dispensing outlet 18. At least some of the dividable tablets that have been transferred from the first rotor 121 to the second conveying unit 134 of the annular conveying unit 131 in the transfer area Ar1 are forward fed to the dispensing outlet 18. Meanwhile, the remaining dividable tablets are dropped toward the receiving unit 12 by the height regulating body 14, the width regulating body 15, and the guide member 16 (first displacement member 16A and second displacement member 16B).

[0046] <Details of the transport section> The conveying unit 13 will be described in detail using Figs. 3 to 7. Fig. 5 is a perspective view showing an example of a structure combining the receiving unit 12, the annular conveying unit 131 of the conveying unit 13, and a rotating plate 17A (described later). In Fig. 6, reference numeral 6001 is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the receiving unit 12 and the annular conveying unit 131 of the conveying unit 13, and reference numeral 6002 is a schematic diagram showing the structure shown by reference numeral 6001 as viewed from another direction. Fig. 7 is a partial enlarged view of the conveying unit 13. Reference numeral 7001 in Fig. 7 indicates a state in which the dividable tablet MD1 dispensed (conveyed) first and the subsequent dividable tablet MD2 are close to each other, and reference numeral 7002 indicates a state in which the dividable tablet MD1 dispensed first and the subsequent dividable tablet MD2 are spaced apart.

[0047] When viewed in a plane from the +Z axis direction, conveying unit 13 has an annular portion located outside receiving unit 12, and conveys the dividable tablet handed over from first rotor 121 to dispensing outlet 18. As shown in Figures 3 to 6, conveying unit 13 includes an annular conveying unit 131 and a guide unit 132. Also as shown in Figures 3 to 6, annular conveying unit 131 includes a first conveying unit 133 and a second conveying unit 134. Annular conveying unit 131 is adjacent to dispensing outlet 18, and conveys the dividable tablet with the tablet placed on it.

[0048] (First conveying section) The first conveying unit 133 is an annular rotating member that rotates around a rotation axis in the ±Z axis direction. As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the first conveying unit 133 has a mounting surface 133A on which a dividable tablet is placed. The dividable tablet is transferred from the mounting surface 134A of the second conveying unit 134 onto the mounting surface 133A of the first conveying unit 133, whereby the dividable tablet is placed on the mounting surface 133A of the first conveying unit 133. The mounting surface 133A of the first conveying unit 133 is horizontally disposed so as to be approximately parallel to the XY plane. The first conveying unit 133 rotates around the rotation axis, thereby conveying the dividable tablet while it is placed on the mounting surface 133A. Specifically, the first conveying unit 133 is adjacent to the dispensing outlet 18, and the dividable tablet on the placing surface 133A conveyed by the first conveying unit 133 is guided by a guide unit 132 described below and dispensed from the dispensing outlet 18. The first conveying unit 133 is located on the outermost periphery of the annular conveying unit 131. Therefore, the first conveying unit 133 is also referred to as the "outermost ring."

[0049] 6, the first transfer section 133 has a plurality of first teeth 133B on its inner peripheral side surface (inner peripheral surface). The plurality of first teeth 133B mesh with planetary gears 134B to 134D of the second transfer section 134. The first transfer section 133 is connected to the second transfer section 134 via the planetary gears 134B to 134D. The first transfer section 133 has a plurality of first teeth 133B, and functions as an internal gear of a planetary gear mechanism by the plurality of first teeth 133B meshing with the planetary gears 134B to 134D.

[0050] The medicine dispensing cassette 1 incorporates a second rotation mechanism that rotates the first conveying unit 133. The second rotation mechanism is realized, for example, by a plurality of second teeth 133C (see FIGS. 5 and 6) of the first conveying unit 133. Specifically, the plurality of second teeth 133C are provided on the outer peripheral side (outer peripheral surface) of the first conveying unit 133, opposite to the inner peripheral surface on which the plurality of first teeth 133B are provided. When the driving member 104 of the motor base 10 is fitted into the plurality of second teeth 133C, the first conveying unit 133 rotates due to the driving force applied to the plurality of second teeth 133C from the motor base 10. Then, when the first conveying unit 133 rotates, the second conveying unit 134 also rotates in the same direction as the first conveying unit 133. The mechanism by which the second conveying unit 134 rotates will be described later. The driving of the second rotation mechanism is controlled by the rotating body control unit 51.

[0051] 5 and 13, the first conveying section 133 has a plurality of first magnets 133D with different magnetic poles alternately provided at positions outside the rotation axis 171 of the rotating plate 17A (described later). "A position outside the rotation axis 171" means a position where the distance from the first shaft portion 121A of the first rotor 121 to the plurality of first magnets 133D is longer than the distance from the first shaft portion 121A to the rotation axis 171. "Different magnetic poles" means that the plurality of first magnets 133D include north and south poles. That is, in this embodiment, the plurality of first magnets 133D are provided in the first conveying section 133 with north and south poles alternately.

[0052] The first magnet 133D is provided, for example, inside the first transport section 133 or on the surface opposite to the placement surface 133A. In this embodiment, the first magnet 133D is provided around the entire circumference of the first transport section 133. FIG. 5 shows only a portion of the multiple first magnets 133D provided around the entire circumference of the first transport section 133. However, the first magnet 133D may be configured to be provided in a portion of the first transport section 133 in the circumferential direction of the first transport section 133.

[0053] (Second conveying section) The second conveying section 134 is an annular rotating member, and its rotation axis extends in the ±Z axis directions. As shown in FIGS. 3 to 5, the second conveying section 134 is located inside the first conveying section 133. The second conveying section 134 may be disposed, for example, inside the first conveying section 133 and adjacent to the first conveying section 133. As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the second conveying section 134 has a mounting surface 134A on which the dividable tablet is placed. The mounting surface 134A of the second conveying section 134 is disposed horizontally so as to be approximately parallel to the XY plane. The second conveying section 134 is located outside the receiving section 12 and inside the first conveying section 133, and is therefore also referred to as an "outer-inner ring."

[0054] The second conveying unit 134 rotates in the same direction as the first conveying unit 133, around the same rotation axis as the first conveying unit 133. The dividable tablet is conveyed from the first rotator 121 of the receiving unit 12 by the rotation of the first rotator 121, and transferred to the second conveying unit 134, where it is placed on the placement surface 134A of the second conveying unit 134. The second conveying unit 134 then conveys the dividable tablet while it is placed on the placement surface 134A.

[0055] 6, the second transfer section 134 includes planetary gears 134B, 134C, and 134D. The number of planetary gears is not limited to three, and at least one may be provided. The planetary gears 134B to 134D are respectively attached to the interior of a plurality of holes 134E formed in the side surface of the second transfer section 134. The planetary gears 134B to 134D protrude outward from the side surface of the second transfer section 134 and engage with a plurality of first teeth 133B of the first transfer section 133, respectively.

[0056] The planetary gears 134B to 134D protrude inward from the side surface of the second transporting part 134 and engage with a plurality of teeth 122A provided on the outer side of the partition wall 122 of the receiving part 12. The plurality of teeth 122A are fixed to the partition wall 122, and the partition wall 122 is fixed to the medicine dispensing cassette 1.

[0057] When the first conveying unit 133 rotates by applying a rotational force to the second teeth 133C by the driving member 104 of the motor base 10, the planetary gears 134B to 134D that engage with the plurality of first teeth 133B and the plurality of teeth 122A rotate due to the rotation. The rotation of the planetary gears 134B to 134D causes the second conveying unit 134 to rotate in the same direction as the first conveying unit 133. Furthermore, since the second conveying unit 134 rotates in conjunction with the rotation of the planetary gears 134B to 134D, it rotates at a slower speed than the first conveying unit 133. The second conveying unit 134 rotates, for example, at approximately half the speed of the first conveying unit 133. As described above, in the medicine dispensing cassette 1, the second conveying unit 134 can be rotated in conjunction with the rotation of the first conveying unit 133. The rotation speed of the second conveying section 134 is determined, for example, by the ratio of the number of the plurality of teeth 122A to the number of the plurality of first teeth 133B of the first conveying section 133, and / or the ratio of the pitch circle diameter of the plurality of teeth 122A to the pitch circle diameter of the plurality of first teeth 133B.

[0058] As described above, the second conveying unit 134 functions as a planetary gear mechanism together with the first conveying unit 133 and the plurality of teeth 122A provided on the outside of the partition wall 122. Therefore, the second conveying unit 134 can rotate in the same direction as the first conveying unit 133 in conjunction with the rotation of the first conveying unit 133. Furthermore, the second conveying unit 134 conveys the dividable tablet by rotating as part of the planetary gear mechanism. Therefore, the motor base 10 does not need to be provided with a drive unit for rotating the second conveying unit 134.

[0059] In this way, by using a planetary gear mechanism, a simple configuration is possible, and by simply driving the first conveying section 133, the first conveying section 133 and the second conveying section 134 can be rotated in the same direction while having different rotational speeds.

[0060] It should be noted that the plurality of teeth 122A need only be able to make a part of the medicine dispensing cassette 1 function as a sun gear by engaging with the planetary gears 134B to 134D, and they do not have to be provided on the partition wall 122. For example, the plurality of teeth 122A may be provided on another part of the medicine dispensing cassette 1 as a member separate from the partition wall 122. However, by providing the plurality of teeth 122A on the outer periphery of the upper part of the partition wall 122, the first conveying part 133 and the second conveying part 134 can be rotated with a simpler configuration.

[0061] (Information Department) The guide unit 132 guides the dividable tablet from the second conveying unit 134 to the first conveying unit 133. The guide unit 132 also guides the dividable tablet from the first conveying unit 133 to the dispensing outlet 18. Specifically, as shown in FIGS. 4 and 7, the guide unit 132 is a non-displaceable member installed on the annular conveying unit 131, and forms the side wall that forms the passage path Ro, which is downstream in the rotation direction of the annular conveying unit 131. In this embodiment, the guide unit 132, together with the guide member 16 described below, forms part of the side wall that defines the passage path Ro, which is closer to the first rotor 121. The passage path Ro is a conveying path along which the dividable tablet is conveyed on the placement surfaces 133A and 134A. Specifically, as shown by reference numeral 4002 in FIG. 4, the guide portion 132 is erected at a position facing a second wall surface 15S2 of the width restrictor 15 described below, and closer to the dispensing outlet 18 than the first displacement member 16A and the second displacement member 16B of the guide member 16. The guide portion 132, together with the second wall surface 15S2, defines a part of the passage path Ro. In other words, the guide portion 132 is a sidewall member that defines the sidewall of the passage path Ro. The width restrictor 15 described below can also be considered a sidewall member that defines the sidewall. The region of the passage path Ro defined by the guide portion 132 can also be considered an end region (medicine guide region) on the annular conveying portion 131 where the dividable tablet is guided to the dispensing outlet 18.

[0062] 7, when viewed in a plan view from the +Z axis direction, the guide unit 132 is disposed above the placing surfaces 133A and 134A (in the +Z axis direction) so as to cross the first conveying unit 133 and the second conveying unit 134, and extends toward the dispensing outlet 18. By disposing the guide unit 132 in this manner, as will be described later, the medicine dispensing cassette 1 can convey a dividable tablet from the second conveying unit 134 to the first conveying unit 133 along the guide unit 132 by rotation of the first conveying unit 133 and the second conveying unit 134. Furthermore, after the dividable tablet is conveyed from the second conveying unit 134 to the first conveying unit 133, it can be conveyed from the first conveying unit 133 to the dispensing outlet 18.

[0063] (Example of transport unit operation) An example of the operation of the conveying unit 13 and the flow of conveying a dividable tablet by this operation will be described below. First, when the first conveying unit 133 rotates due to the operation of the driving member 104 of the motor base 10, the second conveying unit 134 also rotates at a slower speed than the first conveying unit 133. A dividable tablet fed into the receiver 12 is transferred from the first rotor 121 of the receiver 12 onto the mounting surface 134A of the rotating second conveying unit 134. The dividable tablet on the mounting surface 134A is then conveyed along the rotation direction of the second conveying unit 134. When the dividable tablet conveyed by the second conveying unit 134 comes into contact with the guide unit 132, the rotational force of the second conveying unit 134 causes it to move along the guide unit 132 and be guided from the mounting surface 134A of the second conveying unit 134 onto the mounting surface 133A of the first conveying unit 133. The moving speed of the dividable tablet on second conveying section 134 in the state where the dividable tablet is guided from second conveying section 134 to first conveying section 133 is referred to as "second speed P2."

[0064] The dividable tablet guided onto the placement surface 133A of the first conveying unit 133 is conveyed along the guide unit 132 by the rotation of the first conveying unit 133. The dividable tablet conveyed by the first conveying unit 133 moves along the guide unit 132 toward the dispensing outlet 18 and is dispensed from the dispensing outlet 18. The movement speed of the dividable tablet on the first conveying unit 133 when the dividable tablet moves along the guide unit 132 by the rotation of the first conveying unit 133 and is guided from the first conveying unit 133 to the dispensing outlet 18 is referred to as the "first speed P1." As described above, the rotation speed of the first conveying unit 133 is greater than the rotation speed of the second conveying unit 134. Therefore, the first speed P1 is greater than the second speed P2. In other words, the first conveying unit 133 and the second conveying unit 134 can convey the dividable tablet such that the first speed P1 is greater than the second speed P2.

[0065] When a dividable tablet is dispensed from the dispensing outlet 18, if the distance between that dividable tablet and the subsequent dividable tablet is short, these two dividable tablets may be dispensed simultaneously. Specifically, as shown by reference numeral 7001 in FIG. 7, two dividable tablets may arrive near the dispensing outlet 18 in contact with or close to each other. Furthermore, a dividable tablet obtained by dividing a single drug is unstable and prone to rolling when placed on the mounting surface 133A, and therefore is likely to fall when it arrives near the dispensing outlet 18. Therefore, if two dividable tablets arrive near the dispensing outlet 18 in contact with or close to each other, there is a high possibility that two dividable tablets will be dispensed simultaneously when one tablet should be dispensed, which may result in miscounting. When the tablet to be dispensed is the dividable tablet shown in FIG. 2 (reference numeral 2001 indicates a dividable tablet with a relatively small, substantially flat central portion), there is a high possibility that two dividable tablets will be dispensed simultaneously, especially when they come into contact with or close to each other on surfaces other than the cut surfaces.

[0066] Here, the medicine dispensing cassette 1 according to this embodiment includes the above-described conveying unit 13. The conveying unit 13 includes a first conveying unit 133 and a second conveying unit 134 that can convey the dividable tablet so that the first speed P1 is greater than the second speed P2. The medicine dispensing cassette 1 also includes a guide unit 132 that guides the dividable tablet from the second conveying unit 134 to the first conveying unit 133, and from the first conveying unit 133 to the dispensing outlet 18.

[0067] As shown by reference numeral 7001 in FIG. 7, with this configuration, the dividable tablet MD2 guided from the second conveying unit 134 along the guide unit 132 to the first conveying unit 133 is conveyed at a second speed P2. In contrast, the dividable tablet MD1 guided from the second conveying unit 134 along the guide unit 132 to the first conveying unit 133 is accelerated by the first conveying unit 133, which rotates at a higher speed than the second conveying unit 134. As a result, the dividable tablet MD1 guided from the first conveying unit 133 along the guide unit 132 to the dispensing outlet 18 is conveyed at a first speed P1 that is higher than the second speed P2. In other words, of the dividable tablets MD1 and MD2, the dividable tablet MD1 that is dispensed first moves at a faster speed in the first conveying unit 133 than the succeeding dividable tablet MD2. Because the dividable tablet MD1 moves at a faster speed than the dividable tablet MD2, the dividable tablet MD1 moves a longer distance per unit time than the dividable tablet MD2. Therefore, as shown by reference numeral 7002 in FIG. 7, the distance between the dividable tablet MD1 and the dividable tablet MD2 increases. Therefore, the medicine dispensing cassette 1 can increase the possibility that the distance between the first-dispensed dividable tablet MD1 and the subsequent dividable tablet MD2 will increase. In this way, by increasing the possibility that the distance between two consecutive dividable tablets will increase, it becomes possible to reduce the possibility that multiple dividable tablets will be dispensed simultaneously. Therefore, the medicine dispensing cassette 1 can increase the possibility that dividable tablets will be dispensed one by one more accurately.

[0068] (Variation) In the above-described conveying section 13, the part driven by the motor base 10 may be the second conveying section 134 instead of the first conveying section 133. In this case, the second conveying section 134 may have a plurality of teeth that engage with a drive member (not shown) of the motor base 10. This allows the second conveying section 134 to rotate by the rotational force applied from the motor base 10. Furthermore, the first conveying section 133 can also rotate in conjunction with the rotation of the second conveying section 134. Furthermore, in this case, by simply driving the second conveying section 134, the first conveying section 133 and the second conveying section 134 can be rotated in the same direction using the simple structure of the planetary gear mechanism described above so that the first conveying section 133 and the second conveying section 134 rotate at different rotational speeds.

[0069] Furthermore, in the conveying unit 13, the first conveying unit 133 and the second conveying unit 134 may be driven separately (independently). For example, the first conveying unit 133 and the second conveying unit 134 may be engaged with different drive members of the motor base 10, and the first conveying unit 133 and the second conveying unit 134 may be rotated by driving these drive members, respectively. Furthermore, when the first conveying unit 133 and the second conveying unit 134 are driven by different drive members, the rotation speeds of the first conveying unit 133 and the second conveying unit 134 may be changed as appropriate. For example, when the medicine dispensing cassette 1 dispenses a dividable tablet, the first conveying unit 133 may be controlled to rotate at a speed faster than the second conveying unit 134. On the other hand, when the medicine dispensing cassette 1 dispenses an undivided tablet, the first conveying unit 133 may be controlled to rotate at the same speed as the second conveying unit 134. Furthermore, when the first conveying section 133 and the second conveying section 134 are driven by separate driving members, it is possible to drive only one of the first conveying section 133 and the second conveying section 134 and stop the other, for example.

[0070] <Height and width regulation bodies> The height restricting body 14 and the width restricting body 15 will be described with reference to Figure 8 as well. Reference numerals 8001 and 8002 in Figure 8 are diagrams showing an example configuration of the height restricting body 14 and the width restricting body 15. Note that the conveyance assist mechanism 17 is not shown in Figure 8. The height restricting body 14 and the width restricting body 15 are restricting bodies that define the width of the passage path for the dividable tablets to restrict the passage of the dividable tablets sequentially fed by the first rotor 121 and the annular conveying unit 131 according to the size of the dividable tablets, and are movable to change the width of the passage path. The height restricting body 14 and the width restricting body 15 define a passage path Ro for the dividable tablets on the annular conveying unit 131, along which the dividable tablets can be conveyed in a single file to the dispensing outlet 18.

[0071] The height restricting body (height guide) 14 restricts the transfer height W1, indicated by reference numeral 8001 in FIG. 8, as the width of the passageway. The width restricting body 15 restricts transfer widths W21 and W22, indicated by reference numeral 4002 in FIG. 4, as the width of the passageway. The transfer height W1 is the distance between the lower surface of the first height restricting portion 14A of the height restricting body 14 and the upper surface of the annular conveying section 131. In other words, the transfer height W1 is the distance from the surface of the passageway Ro to the height restricting body 14. The transfer width W21 is the distance from the inner periphery of the annular conveying section 131 to the first wall surface 15S1 of the width restricting body 15, and the transfer width W22 is the distance from the guide member 16 to the second wall surface 15S2 of the width restricting body 15.

[0072] The height restrictor 14 includes a first height restricting unit 14A and a second height restricting unit 14B, as indicated by reference numerals 8001 and 8002 in Fig. 8. The first height restricting unit 14A is a member that reduces the possibility that dividable tablets placed on the annular conveying unit 131 will be conveyed to the dispensing outlet 18 while overlapping in the height direction (+Z-axis direction) during forward feeding. The first height restricting unit 14A is disposed downstream of the movement region Ar1 in the direction in which the dividable tablets are conveyed during forward feeding and above the annular conveying unit 131. As indicated by reference numeral 8001 in Fig. 8, the first height restricting unit 14A extends from the outer periphery to the inner periphery of the annular conveying unit 131 and along the direction in which the dividable tablets are conveyed.

[0073] The height restrictor 14 moves in the ±Z-axis directions to define the transfer height W1 on the upper surface of the annular conveying section 131. The medicine dispensing cassette 1 has a built-in height restrictor moving mechanism that controls the movement of the first height restrictor 14A. The height restrictor moving mechanism includes, for example, a screw member 14C. As shown by reference numeral 8001 in FIG. 8, the screw member 14C is provided to engage with a screw receiving portion formed on the height restrictor 14. In this embodiment, the screw member 14C is connected to the driving member 105 of the motor base 10, and the screw member 14C rotates upon receiving power from the motor base 10, causing the height restrictor 14 to move in the ±Z-axis directions. This adjusts the transfer height W1 to match the size of the inserted dividable tablet. The driving of the height restrictor moving mechanism is controlled, for example, by the restrictor control section 52 (see FIG. 11).

[0074] Similar to the first height restricting unit 14A, the second height restricting unit 14B is a member that reduces the possibility that the dividable tablets placed on the annular conveying unit 131 will be conveyed to the dispensing outlet 18 in a state where they are stacked in the height direction during forward feeding. The second height restricting unit 14B is disposed so as to be located upstream of the dispensing outlet 18 in the direction in which the dividable tablets are conveyed during forward feeding and above the annular conveying unit 131. In other words, the second height restricting unit 14B is provided at the tip of the height restricting body 14.

[0075] As shown by reference numeral 8001 in FIGS. 4 and 8, the width restrictor (width guide) 15, together with the height restrictor 14, is disposed downstream of the movement area Ar1 in the direction of transfer of the dividable tablet during forward feeding and above the annular conveying section 131. As shown by reference numeral 4002 in FIG. 4, the width restrictor 15 has a first wall surface 15S1 (curved surface) having a diameter larger than the diameter of the inner periphery of the annular conveying section 131, and a second wall surface 15S2 located downstream of the first wall surface 15S1 in the direction of transfer of the dividable tablet during forward feeding. The transfer widths W21 and W22 can be adjusted by moving the width restrictor 15 approximately in the ±Y-axis direction. The positional relationship between the width restrictor 15 and the annular conveying section 131 is defined so that the minimum transfer width W21 can be formed in a portion of the circumferential direction of the first wall surface 15S1.

[0076] The width restrictor 15 moves substantially in the ±Y-axis direction to define transfer widths W21 and W22 on the upper surface of the annular conveying section 131. The medicine dispensing cassette 1 has a built-in width restrictor moving mechanism that controls the movement of the width restrictor 15. As shown by reference numeral 4001 in FIG. 4, the width restrictor moving mechanism includes, for example, a screw member 15A1 and a piston portion 15A2.

[0077] The piston portion 15A2 moves the width limiter 15 along the piston portion 15A2. In this embodiment, the screw member 15A1 is connected to the drive member 106 of the motor base 10, and the screw member 15A1 rotates upon receiving power from the motor base 10. Power generated by the rotation of the screw member 15A1 is transmitted to the piston portion 15A2, and the width limiter 15 connected to the piston portion 15A2 is moved by this power. As a result, the transport widths W21 and W22 are adjusted according to the size of the inserted dividable tablet. The drive of the width limiter movement mechanism is controlled, for example, by the limiter control unit 52.

[0078] 8, the width restricting body 15 has an opening 15B that accommodates a portion of the second height restricting unit 14B so that the second height restricting unit 14B can move in the ±Z-axis directions. By providing the opening 15B, the second height restricting unit 14B can be positioned on the passage path Ro regardless of fluctuations in the transport width W22. Therefore, even when two dividable tablets are transported overlapping each other, the second height restricting unit 14B can reliably drop the upper dividable tablet.

[0079] <Guide parts> The guide member 16 will be described with reference to Figure 9. In Figure 9, reference numeral 9001 denotes a perspective view showing an example of the configuration of the guide member 16, and reference numeral 9002 denotes a plan view showing an example of the configuration of the first displacement member 16A and the second displacement member 16B. Note that the transport assist mechanism 17 is not shown in Figure 9.

[0080] As shown in FIG. 9, the medicine dispensing cassette 1 includes a guide member 16 near the dispensing outlet 18. The guide member 16 defines a portion of the passage path Ro for the dividable tablet formed by the annular conveying unit 131 connected to the dispensing outlet 18, and guides the dividable tablet to the dispensing outlet 18. As shown by reference numeral 4002 in FIG. 4, the guide member 16 is provided at a position facing the second wall surface 15S2 of the width restrictor 15 and adjacent to the guide unit 132 at the end of the guide unit 132 opposite the dispensing outlet 18 (upstream of the guide unit 132). The guide member 16, together with the second wall surface 15S2, defines a portion of the passage path Ro. That is, the guide member 16, together with the guide unit 132, constitutes a portion of the side wall that defines the passage path Ro.

[0081] The guide member 16 includes a first displacement member 16A, a second displacement member 16B, and a support member 16D. The support member 16D extends upstream from the guide section 132 and supports the first displacement member 16A and the second displacement member 16B so that they are suspended below the support member 16D. Because the first displacement member 16A and the second displacement member 16B are suspended from the support member 16D, they are displaced when contacted by a dividable tablet transported by the annular transport section 131, and exert a force on the dividable tablet in a direction that counteracts the displacement. In this way, the first displacement member 16A and the second displacement member 16B adjust the orientation or position of the dividable tablet and assist in transporting the dividable tablet downstream (to the drug guide region) defined by a predetermined width (transport width W22).

[0082] The displacement (swing) of the first displacement member 16A and the second displacement member 16B can absorb the impact on the dividable tablet. This reduces the possibility of the dividable tablet being damaged. Furthermore, the force applied to the dividable tablet can correct its orientation (posture). Furthermore, the position of the dividable tablet can be corrected so that the guide section 132 does not interfere with the conveyance of the dividable tablet. This prevents the dividable tablet from clogging the guide section 132.

[0083] Specifically, the first displacement member 16A and the second displacement member 16B are disposed upstream of the guide part 132. This allows the progressively fed dividable tablet to come into contact with the first displacement member 16A and the second displacement member 16B before coming into contact with the guide part 132. This reduces the possibility of the dividable tablet being damaged by contact with the guide part 132.

[0084] Furthermore, the first displacement member 16A and the second displacement member 16B change the orientation or position of the dividable tablet so as to prevent the dividable tablet from contacting one end (the upstream end) of the guide part 132. By changing the orientation or position in this manner, it is possible to reduce the possibility of the dividable tablet being damaged by contact with one end of the guide part 132 and also to prevent the dividable tablet from clogging at that end.

[0085] Furthermore, by providing two displacement members, the first displacement member 16A and the second displacement member 16B, the orientation or position of the dividable tablet can be changed in stages, which can efficiently prevent clogging of the dividable tablet.

[0086] <Transportation auxiliary mechanism> The transport assist mechanism 17 will be described using Fig. 10 in addition to Fig. 3 to Fig. 5. Fig. 10 is a partially enlarged view of the medicine dispensing cassette 1 for explaining the operation of the rotating plate 17A. Reference numeral 10001 in Fig. 10 indicates a state in which the first-dispensed dividable tablet MD1 and the subsequent dividable tablet MD2 are close to each other, and reference numeral 10002 indicates a state in which the first-dispensed dividable tablet MD1 and the subsequent dividable tablet MD2 are separated from each other.

[0087] The transport assist mechanism 17 acts on the dividable tablet placed on the first transport part 133, thereby increasing the transport speed of the dividable tablet dispensed to the dispensing outlet 18. As shown in FIGS. 3 to 5, the medicine dispensing cassette 1 includes a rotating plate 17A as a specific example of the transport assist mechanism 17.

[0088] 5, the rotating plate 17A has a rotation axis 171 extending in a direction (±Z-axis direction) perpendicular to the placement surface 133A of the first conveying section 133 and the placement surface 134A of the second conveying section 134, and rotates in the same direction as the first conveying section 133 around the rotation axis 171. In addition, the rotating plate 17A partially protrudes from the side wall that defines the passage path Ro at a position adjacent to the dispensing outlet 18 of the first conveying section 133.

[0089] As an example, as shown in FIG. 10, a portion of the rotating plate 17A protrudes from a portion of the guide section 132. The portion of the rotating plate 17A protruding from the guide section 132 is located above the first conveying section 133 (in the +Z-axis direction). However, the entire portion does not necessarily need to be located above the first conveying section 133. The position of the portion needs only to be determined so that it can increase the conveying speed of the dividable tablet by contacting the dividable tablet on the first conveying section 133 and can be separated from the dividable tablet on the second conveying section 134 that follows the dividable tablet. For example, it is sufficient that at least the portion of the rotating plate 17A that protrudes the most from the guide section 132 is located above the first conveying section 133 (in the +Z-axis direction).

[0090] In this way, a part of the rotating plate 17A protrudes from a part of the guide part 132 at a position adjacent to the dispensing outlet 18. Therefore, with a simple configuration, the conveying speed of the dividable tablet dispensed to the dispensing outlet 18 can be increased.

[0091] As shown in FIG. 5, the rotating plate 17A has a plurality of second magnets 172 with different magnetic poles arranged alternately at positions along the circumferential direction of the rotating plate 17A and facing the first magnet 133D when the first conveying unit 133 is rotated. "Different magnetic poles" means that the plurality of second magnets 172 include north and south poles. That is, in this embodiment, the plurality of second magnets 172 are arranged alternately with north and south poles on the rotating plate 17A. The positional relationship between the first conveying unit 133 and the rotating plate 17A is determined so that the second magnets 172 face the first magnet 133D of the first conveying unit 133.

[0092] When first conveying section 133 rotates, second magnet 172 is affected by the magnetic force of first magnet 133D. As a result, rotating plate 17A rotates around rotation axis 171 in the same direction as first conveying section 133. In this way, rotating plate 17A can be rotated in conjunction with the rotation of first conveying section 133. In other words, rotating plate 17A can be rotated with a simple configuration.

[0093] 5, the rotating plate 17A has a smaller diameter than the first conveying section 133. This allows the rotating plate 17A to rotate at a faster speed than the first conveying section 133 when the first conveying section 133 rotates.

[0094] It is sufficient that the first magnet 133D and the second magnet 172 can be used to rotate the rotating plate 17A. In other words, it is not necessary that the first magnet 133D and the second magnet 172 are each composed of a plurality of magnets with different magnetic poles, and that the magnets with different magnetic poles are arranged alternately. For example, at least one first magnet 133D may be provided in a portion of the first conveying section 133, and at least one second magnet 172 may be provided in a portion of the rotating plate 17A. Furthermore, one of the first magnet 133D and the second magnet 172 may be a magnetic material such as an iron plate.

[0095] As shown by reference numeral 10001 in FIG. 10, the dividable tablet MD1 being conveyed by the first conveying unit 133 comes into contact with the rotating plate 17A. The dividable tablet MD1 receives a force from the rotating plate 17A in a tangential direction of the rotating plate 17A at the position where the dividable tablet MD1 comes into contact with the rotating plate 17A and in a direction toward the dispensing outlet 18. The speed of the rotating plate 17A along the tangential direction at this time is referred to as "peripheral speed P3." Because the rotating plate 17A rotates at a speed faster than the first conveying unit 133, the peripheral speed P3 is greater than the first speed P1. It is sufficient that the speed component of the peripheral speed P3 in the direction in which the passing path Ro extends is greater than the speed component of the first speed P1 in the direction in which the passing path Ro extends.

[0096] As shown by reference numeral 10001 in FIG. 10, when the dividable tablet MD1 being conveyed by the first conveying unit 133 comes into contact with the rotating plate 17A, the dividable tablet MD1 accelerates due to the influence of the rotating plate 17A. As a result, the dividable tablet MD1 moves at a speed P4 close to the peripheral speed P3, which is greater than the first speed P1, and is dispensed from the dispensing outlet 18. At this time, the speed P4 at which the dividable tablet MD1 moves is faster than the first speed P1, which is the moving speed of the subsequent dividable tablet MD2 being conveyed on the mounting surface A of the first conveying unit 133. Therefore, the dividable tablet MD1 dispensed first can travel a longer distance than the subsequent dividable tablet MD2. Therefore, as shown by reference numeral 10002 in FIG. 10, the distance between the dividable tablet MD1 after contacting the rotating plate 17A and the dividable tablet MD2 before contacting the rotating plate 17A increases.

[0097] As described above, the rotating plate 17A can increase the speed at which the dividable tablet MD1 is dispensed from the dispensing port 18, thereby increasing the possibility of increasing the distance between the dividable tablet MD1 and the subsequent dividable tablet MD2. This enables accurate dispensing of each tablet. That is, when the medicine is transported to the position of the rotating plate 17A provided in the guide unit 132, it comes into contact with the rotating plate 17A, thereby increasing the transport speed of the medicine toward the dispensing port 18, thereby enabling accurate dispensing of each tablet.

[0098] 5 and 10, the side surface of the rotating plate 17A (the side surface that comes into contact with the dividable tablet) is formed with a groove that is oriented approximately parallel to the rotating shaft 171. This increases the frictional force between the rotating plate 17A and the dividable tablet, allowing the rotational force of the rotating plate 17A to be transmitted to the dividable tablet more efficiently.

[0099] Here, as shown by reference numeral 10001 in FIG. 10, there is a possibility that a plurality of dividable tablets will be placed on the first conveying section 133 depending on the shape of the dividable tablet and the positional relationship between two consecutive dividable tablets.

[0100] For example, as shown in Fig. 7, consider a state in which the cut surface of the preceding dividable tablet MD1 faces the width regulating body 15, and the cut surface of the following dividable tablet MD2 faces the guide member 16 and the guide section 132. In this state, as shown by reference numeral 7001 in Fig. 7, if the dividable tablets MD1 and MD2 are in contact with or close to each other on surfaces other than the cut surfaces, the dividable tablet MD1 is placed on the first conveying section 133 before the dividable tablet MD2 is placed on the first conveying section 133. Therefore, as shown by reference numeral 7002 in Fig. 7, it is possible to separate the dividable tablets MD1 and MD2 even if the dividable tablet MD1 does not come into contact with the rotating plate 17A.

[0101] However, as shown in Fig. 10, when the cut surface of the preceding dividable tablet MD1 faces the guide member 16 and the guide section 132 and the cut surface of the following dividable tablet MD2 faces the width restrictor 15, the following phenomenon may occur. That is, in this state, as shown by reference numeral 10001 in Fig. 10, if the dividable tablets MD1 and MD2 are in contact with or close to each other on surfaces other than the cut surfaces, there is a possibility that the dividable tablet MD2 will also be placed on the first conveying section 133 immediately after the dividable tablet MD1 is placed on the first conveying section 133. In this case, the dividable tablets MD1 and MD2 cannot be sufficiently separated from each other, and there is a possibility that the dividable tablets MD1 and MD2 will be dispensed simultaneously.

[0102] As described above, by having a portion of the rotating plate 17A protrude from the guide section 132 above the first conveying section 133, the conveying speed of the preceding dividable tablet MD1 can be increased, as shown by reference numeral 10002 in FIG. 10. Therefore, even when a subsequent dividable tablet MD2 is placed on the first conveying section 133 together with the dividable tablet MD1, it is possible to separate the dividable tablets MD1 and MD2. In other words, even when multiple dividable tablets are placed on the first conveying section 133, by increasing the conveying speed of only the first dividable tablet, only that dividable tablet can be dispensed. This increases the likelihood of more accurately dispensing the dividable tablets one by one to the dispensing outlet 18.

[0103] In conventional medicine dispensing cassettes, multiple divisible tablets, such as those shown in FIG. 2, may be dispensed simultaneously. In particular, divisible tablets obtained by dividing a sugar-coated tablet, such as those shown by reference numeral 2002 in FIG. 2, have uneven central portions on the top and bottom surfaces of the cut surface, making them unstable and prone to rolling when placed on a flat surface. Similarly, divisible tablets obtained by dividing a tablet with a central bulge, such as those shown by reference numerals 2001 and 2003, have nearly circular cut surfaces, making them unstable and prone to rolling when placed on a flat surface. Therefore, when one divisible tablet is dispensed, subsequent divisible tablets may also roll off the dispensing opening. However, this phenomenon may occur in the case of the tablet shown by reference numeral 2001, which is a divisible tablet obtained by dividing a tablet with a small, generally flat central area.

[0104] Furthermore, when tablets obtained by dividing tablets whose ends taper relative to the center, such as those shown by symbols 2003, 2004, and 2006, are dispensed consecutively, the preceding and succeeding divisible tablets may be positioned closer together. Specifically, as shown in Figures 7 and 10, if two divisible tablets are positioned such that their undivided ends are staggered, the preceding and succeeding divisible tablets may not be spaced far enough apart. Conventional medicine dispensing cassettes lack a mechanism for increasing the distance between these divisible tablets, which can result in multiple divisible tablets being dispensed simultaneously. A similar problem can also occur when dispensing divisible tablets obtained by dividing polygonal tablets, such as those shown by symbols 2005 and 2007.

[0105] Here, as described above, the medicine dispensing cassette 1 according to this embodiment includes the conveying unit 13 having the first conveying unit 133 and the second conveying unit 134, and the rotating plate 17A. Because the first conveying unit 133 rotates at a faster speed than the second conveying unit 134, it is possible to increase the distance between a dividable tablet that was conveyed first and placed on the first conveying unit 133 and a dividable tablet that was conveyed thereafter and placed on the second conveying unit 134. Furthermore, because the rotating plate 17A rotates at a faster speed than the first conveying unit 133, a dividable tablet that comes into contact with the rotating plate 17A accelerates at a speed higher than the conveying speed when it was being conveyed on the first conveying unit 133. Therefore, even if two dividable tablets are placed on the first conveying unit 133 at the same time, it is possible to increase the distance between these dividable tablets.

[0106] As described above, the medicine dispensing cassette 1 can increase the distance between the divisible tablets being conveyed. Therefore, even when dispensing divisible tablets that tend to roll or that tend to come into contact or close to each other, the distance between the divisible tablets can be increased sufficiently. This reduces the possibility of multiple divisible tablets being dispensed at the same time, and enables more accurate dispensing of divisible tablets one by one.

[0107] (Variation) A plurality of rotating plates 17A may be provided in the medicine dispensing cassette 1. For example, two or more rotating plates 17A may be provided along the passage path Ro. Two or more rotating plates 17A may be provided overlapping each other in the Z-axis direction. The rotating plate 17A may be provided on a part of a side wall defining the passage path Ro, for example, on the second wall surface 15S2 of the width restrictor 15 in an area facing the guide portion 132. In this way, the rotating plate 17A may be provided so that a part of it protrudes from at least one side wall defining the passage path Ro.

[0108] Furthermore, the transport assist mechanism 17 may be any mechanism that acts on the dividable tablet to increase the transport speed of the dividable tablet dispensed to the dispensing outlet 18. For example, the transport assist mechanism 17 may be an air blower that can blow air toward the dispensing outlet 18 onto the dividable tablet placed on the first conveying section 133.

[0109] Furthermore, the rotating plate 17A may be driven separately from the first conveying unit 133. For example, the rotating plate 17A may be connected to a drive member of the motor base 10 that is separate from the drive member that drives the first conveying unit 133. In this case, the first conveying unit 133 may not have the first magnet 133D, and the rotating plate 17A may not have the second magnet 172. Because the rotating plate 17A can be driven separately from the first conveying unit 133, the rotation speed of the rotating plate 17A can be changed, for example, depending on the type of tablet. Therefore, for example, for tablets that tend to fall apart into multiple dividable tablets, the rotation speed of the rotating plate 17A can be set faster than a specified speed. For example, for tablets that are prone to breakage, the rotation speed of the rotating plate 17A can be set slower than a specified speed. The specified speed may be, for example, the rotation speed of the rotating plate 17A when it rotates in conjunction with the first conveying unit 133 due to the first magnet 133D and the second magnet 172.

[0110] [Motor base (control unit / storage unit) configuration] The control unit 50 and the storage unit 60 of the motor base 10 will be described with reference to Fig. 11. Fig. 11 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the medicine dispensing cassette 1 and the motor base 10.

[0111] As shown in FIG. 11 , the motor base 10 includes a control unit 50 and a memory unit 60 in addition to the above-mentioned components. The control unit 50 comprehensively controls each unit of the motor base 10 and the medicine dispensing cassette 1. The functions of the control unit 50 may be realized by a CPU (Central Processing Unit) executing a program stored in the memory unit 60. The memory unit 60 stores various programs executed by the control unit 50 and data used by the programs. The control unit 50 mainly includes a rotating body control unit 51, a regulating body control unit 52, and a timer unit 53.

[0112] The rotating body control unit 51 drives the first rotation mechanism by controlling the driving of the drive member 103, thereby controlling the rotation of the first rotating body 121. The rotating body control unit 51 also drives the second rotation mechanism by controlling the driving of the drive member 104, thereby controlling the rotation of the first conveying unit 133 of the annular conveying unit 131. The rotating body control unit 51 controls, for example, the rotation direction and rotation speed of the first rotating body 121 and the annular conveying unit 131.

[0113] The rotor control unit 51 independently controls the first rotor 121 and the annular conveying unit 131. The rotor control unit 51 constantly rotates the first rotor 121 in the forward direction at a constant speed, for example, during the dispensing process of the dividable tablet. On the other hand, the annular conveying unit 131 switches between forward and reverse operation. The rotation speed of the first conveying unit 133 during forward and reverse feed may be set individually. For example, the rotation speed during forward feed and the rotation speed during reverse feed can each be set in multiple stages (e.g., seven stages). The rotation speed during forward feed may be set according to the size of the dividable tablet (diameter of the dividable tablet). For example, the rotation speed during forward feed may be set to increase as the size of the dividable tablet increases.

[0114] The rotating body control unit 51 may temporarily switch the forward feeding operation to a reverse feeding operation when the count sensor 101 does not detect a dividable tablet for a predetermined time (first predetermined time). In this case, for example, the second conveying unit 134 may be fed backward a first distance. That is, for example, the second conveying unit 134 may feed the dividable tablet on the passage path Ro backward a first distance. This switching operation is referred to as a first switching operation (reverse operation 1).

[0115] The first distance corresponds to the distance from the first displacement member 16A to the second displacement member 16B. The rotating body control unit 51 realizes the reverse feed operation of the first distance by, for example, rotating the second conveying unit 134 by approximately 15° around the rotation axis via the first conveying unit 133. The first predetermined time may be set to a time sufficient for a dividable tablet present near the first displacement member 16A to be dispensed from the dispensing opening 18 when the rotation speed of the first conveying unit 133 during forward feed is the slowest. The timing of the first predetermined time may be started, for example, when the forward feed operation (forward rotation operation) of the annular conveying unit 131 begins, or when the count sensor 101 detects the previously dispensed dividable tablet.

[0116] Furthermore, if the count sensor 101 does not detect the dividable tablet for an additional predetermined time (second predetermined time), the rotating body control unit 51 may temporarily switch the forward feeding operation to a reverse feeding operation. In this case, for example, the second conveying unit 134 may be fed backward a second distance that is longer than the first distance. That is, for example, the second conveying unit 134 may feed the dividable tablet on the passage path Ro backward the second distance. This switching operation is referred to as the second switching operation (reverse operation 2).

[0117] By having the rotating body control unit 51 perform the first switching operation and the second switching operation, the orientation of the dividable tablet can be changed using the first displacement member 16A and the second displacement member 16B when a dividable tablet becomes jammed due to the guide unit 132. This increases the likelihood that the jamming of the dividable tablet will be resolved.

[0118] Furthermore, the rotating body control unit 51 may temporarily switch the forward feeding operation to the reverse feeding operation when the count sensor 101 detects a dividable tablet within the first predetermined time. In this case, for example, the second conveying unit 134 may be fed backward a third distance. That is, for example, the second conveying unit 134 may feed the dividable tablet on the passage path Ro backward a third distance. This switching operation is referred to as a third switching operation (reverse operation 3).

[0119] For example, when the rotator control unit 51 receives a detection result from the count sensor 101 indicating that the dividable tablets have been counted, it executes the third switching operation. This causes the annular conveying unit 131 to temporarily reverse, thereby reducing the possibility that the next dividable tablet to be dispensed will fall out of the dispensing outlet 18 together with the dispensed dividable tablet. This reduces the possibility of miscounting.

[0120] The third distance may be set through experiments or the like to a distance that does not cause the above-mentioned erroneous counting. In this embodiment, the rotating body control unit 51 realizes the reverse feed operation of the third distance by, for example, rotating the second conveying unit 134 by approximately 5° about the rotation axis via the first conveying unit 133. However, the rotating body control unit 51 may stop the rotation of the annular conveying unit 131 that is performing the forward feed operation without performing the third switching operation.

[0121] Whether or not to perform the third switching operation may be set for each type of medicine. Furthermore, the third switching operation may be performed not every time the count sensor 101 counts a dispensed dividable tablet, but every time the count sensor 101 counts a dispensed dividable tablet multiple times (every time multiple dividable tablets are dispensed).

[0122] Furthermore, when the first conveying section 133, the second conveying section 134, and the rotating plate 17A can be driven independently, the rotating body control section 51 may control the driving of each of the first conveying section 133, the second conveying section 134, and the rotating plate 17A.

[0123] The restrictor control unit 52 drives the height restrictor movement mechanism by controlling the drive of the drive member 105. This controls the movement of the height restrictor 14 in the ±Z axis directions. The restrictor control unit 52 also drives the width restrictor movement mechanism by controlling the drive of the drive member 106. This controls the movement of the width restrictor 15 in the direction in which the piston portion 15A2 extends. The restrictor control unit 52 controls the movement of the height restrictor 14 and the width restrictor 15 when adjusting the transfer height W1, transfer widths W21 and W22 as pre-processing for the dispensing process of the dividable tablet. The restrictor control unit 52 also independently controls the movement of the height restrictor 14 and the width restrictor 15.

[0124] The timing unit 53 may measure a first predetermined time or a second predetermined time. For example, the timing unit 53 measures the time since the count sensor 101 detected the dividable tablet. Furthermore, when the timing unit 53 measures the first predetermined time or the second predetermined time, it may notify the rotating body control unit 51 that the time has elapsed.

[0125] [Operation of the medicine dispensing cassette] Next, an example of operation of the medicine dispensing cassette 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 12. Fig. 12 is a flowchart showing an example of operation of the medicine dispensing cassette 1. In this embodiment, the rotation speed of the first transporting part 133 may be settable to seven stages from stage 1 (lowest speed) to stage 7 (highest speed).

[0126] After the dividable tablet is fed into the first rotor 121 (inner ring), the dispensing process of the dividable tablet is initiated, and the regulator control unit 52 adjusts the transfer height W1 and the transfer widths W21 and W22 by controlling the height regulator 14 and the width regulator 15. Thereafter, the rotor control unit 51 rotates the first rotor 121 to start the operation of lifting up the dividable tablet, transferring it from the first rotor 121 to the annular conveying unit 131 (outer ring) (S1).

[0127] Thereafter, the rotating body control unit 51 causes the circular conveying unit 131 to move forward in a sequential manner. The rotation speed is set to, for example, one of steps 1 to 3 based on the size of the inserted dividable tablet.

[0128] Specifically, the rotating body control unit 51 drives the driving member 104 of the motor base 10 to rotate (forward) the first conveying unit 133 (S2). As the first conveying unit 133 rotates, the planetary gears 134B to 134D rotate, and the second conveying unit 134 rotates (forward) at a slower speed than the first conveying unit 133 (S3). Furthermore, as the first conveying unit 133 rotates, the first magnet 133D and the second magnet 172 interact with each other, causing the rotating plate 17A to rotate (forward) (S4).

[0129] The dividable tablet picked up in the receiver 12 is transferred from the first rotor 121 to the second conveyor 134. Once the dividable tablet has been transferred onto the mounting surface 134A of the second conveyor 134, the rotation of the second conveyor 134 causes the dividable tablet to be conveyed along the passage path Ro. When the dividable tablet reaches the guide 132, it moves along the guide 132 and is transferred from the second conveyor 134 to the first conveyor 133 at a second speed P2. The dividable tablet transferred to the first conveyor 133 is then conveyed at a first speed P1. This increases the distance between the dividable tablet being conveyed on the first conveyor 133 and the dividable tablet on the second conveyor 134. The dividable tablet being conveyed on the first conveyor 133 then reaches the vicinity of the dispensing outlet 18. The dividable tablet that has reached the vicinity of the dispensing outlet 18 comes into contact with the rotating plate 17A. Due to the rotation of the rotating plate 17A, the dividable tablet accelerates and moves at a speed close to a peripheral speed P3 that is higher than the first speed P1, and is dispensed from the dispensing opening 18. As a result, the dividable tablet that contacts the rotating plate 17A is dispensed with a greater distance between it and the succeeding dividable tablet. Even if two successively transported dividable tablets are not sufficiently separated and are transported to the first transport section 133, the rotation of the rotating plate 17A can separate the two dividable tablets.

[0130] The rotating body control unit 51 determines whether the count sensor 101 has detected a dividable tablet that has fallen from the first conveying unit 133 to the dispensing outlet 18 (S5). When the count sensor 101 detects a dividable tablet and acquires the detection result, the rotating body control unit 51 determines that a dividable tablet that has fallen to the dispensing outlet 18 has been detected. When the rotating body control unit 51 determines that a dividable tablet that has fallen to the dispensing outlet 18 has been detected (YES in S5), it executes a third switching operation. That is, the rotating body control unit 51 causes the second conveying unit 134 to feed backward a third distance (e.g., 5°). Specifically, the rotating body control unit 51 reverses the rotation direction of the first conveying unit 133 by rotating the drive member 104 backward (S6). As the rotation direction of the first conveying unit 133 is reversed, the rotation direction of the second conveying unit 134 is also reversed (S7). At this time, the rotation direction of the rotating plate 17A is also reversed. In this embodiment, the rotation speed during reverse feeding may be uniformly set to stage 7. Alternatively, as described above, the rotating body control unit 51 may stop the rotation of the first conveying unit 133 without performing the third switching operation. After S7, the rotating body control unit 51 determines whether the designated number of dividable tablets have been dispensed (S8), and if they have not been dispensed (NO in S8), it performs the processes from S2 onwards again.

[0131] If the count sensor 101 has not detected a dividable tablet that has fallen into the dispensing outlet 18 (NO in S5), the rotating body control unit 51 continues the forward feed operation (forward rotation operation) of S4 until the count sensor 101 detects a dividable tablet. If the result in S5 is NO, the rotating body control unit 51 may perform a first switching operation if the count sensor 101 has not detected a dividable tablet for a first predetermined time. Furthermore, if the count sensor 101 has not detected a dividable tablet for a second predetermined time, the rotating body control unit 51 may perform a second switching operation.

[0132] The rotating body control unit 51 repeats the processes of S2 to S8 until the designated number of dividable tablets has been dispensed. When the designated number of dividable tablets has been dispensed (YES in S8), the medicine dispensing cassette 1 ends the dispensing operation process.

[0133] [Modification] In the above-described embodiment, the dividable tablets dispensed by the medicine dispensing cassette 1 may be tablets obtained by dividing OD (Orally Divided) tablets. When divided, OD tablets break into small fragments. Therefore, when using the medicine dispensing cassette 1 to dispense dividable OD tablets, the dividable tablets may be sieved to remove the fragments.

[0134] If the divided tablet being dispensed is a divided OD tablet, fragments resulting from the division may be read as divided tablets, resulting in miscounting. By sifting the divided OD tablets in advance, the fragments can be removed before placing them into the receiving section 12 of the medicine dispensing cassette 1. Therefore, the medicine dispensing cassette 1 can dispense tablets with reduced impact from fragments.

[0135] When sieving sieved OD tablets, the weight of the sieved tablets decreases as the fragments are removed, i.e., loss occurs, but this loss is less than the loss caused by splitting an OD tablet. Therefore, even if sieving OD tablets, the impact on the weight is relatively small. In other words, sieving sieved tablets is useful for dispensing OD tablets from the medicine dispensing cassette 1 in order to reduce the possibility of miscounting fragments as sieved tablets.

[0136] In this way, severable OD tablets can be more accurately dispensed one by one by dispensing the divided and sieved OD tablets using the medicine dispensing cassette 1. When dispensing severable OD tablets using the above-mentioned method, the medicine dispensing cassette 1 can accurately dispense 95% or more of the severable tablets that can be dispensed, one by one.

[0137] The medicines dispensed by the medicine dispensing cassette 1 are not limited to divided tablets. For example, the medicines may be undivided tablets (whole-number tablets). In this case, the medicine dispensing cassette 1 does not need to be equipped with the guide member 16. Even undivided tablets, such as sugar-coated tablets shown by reference numeral 2002 in FIG. 2, can easily roll and be miscounted. The medicine dispensing cassette 1 can increase the distance between the preceding and following whole-number tablets, even for such easily rolling whole-number tablets. Therefore, the medicine dispensing cassette 1 can accurately dispense such whole-number tablets one by one.

[0138] Furthermore, for integer tablets such as those indicated by symbols 2004 and 2006 in Figure 2, depending on the state of contact or proximity between the preceding integer tablet and the following integer tablet, there is a risk that the two integer tablets will be dispensed simultaneously. Even if the integer tablets are relatively small, there is also a risk that the two integer tablets will be dispensed simultaneously. By providing the transport unit 13 and the transport assist mechanism 17, the medicine dispensing cassette 1 can reduce the possibility of the two integer tablets being dispensed simultaneously, regardless of the state of contact or proximity between the preceding integer tablet and the following integer tablet, or even if the integer tablets are relatively small.

[0139] Furthermore, the medicine dispensing cassette 1 may include only one of the first conveying unit 133 and the second conveying unit 134 and the conveying assist mechanism 17. For example, the medicine dispensing cassette 1 does not need to include the conveying assist mechanism 17. Even in this case, the medicine dispensing cassette 1 can increase the possibility of separating two consecutive dividable tablets due to the difference between the first speed P1 and the second speed P2 caused by the speed difference between the first conveying unit 133 and the second conveying unit 134. Furthermore, when this configuration is adopted, the first conveying unit 133 does not need to include the first magnet 133D for rotating the rotating plate 17A.

[0140] However, when the medicine dispensing cassette 1 is equipped with both the first and second conveying units 133 and 134 and the conveying assist mechanism 17, the rotating plate 17A accelerates the preceding dividable tablet even if multiple dividable tablets are placed on the first conveying unit 133 at the same time. Therefore, the medicine dispensing cassette 1 can increase the distance between each dividable tablet and more accurately dispense the dividable tablets one by one.

[0141] Furthermore, when the medicine dispensing cassette 1 does not include the first conveying unit 133 and the second conveying unit 134, the annular conveying unit 131 of the conveying unit 13 may be configured as a single annular member that realizes forward or reverse feeding of the dividable tablet. In this case, the dividable tablet is transferred from the receiving unit 12 to the annular conveying unit 131 and conveyed along the passage path Ro by the rotation of the annular conveying unit 131. The dividable tablet is guided by the guide unit 132, accelerated by contact with the rotating rotary plate 17A, and dispensed from the dispensing outlet 18.

[0142] However, when the medicine dispensing cassette 1 is equipped with both the first and second conveying units 133, 134, and the conveying assist mechanism 17, it is possible to increase the distance between the dividable tablets not only by the acceleration caused by the rotating plate 17A but also by the speed difference between the first and second conveying units 133, 134. Therefore, the medicine dispensing cassette 1 can more accurately dispense the dividable tablets one by one.

[0143] In summary, the medicine dispensing cassette 1 may be provided with only one of the first conveying unit 133 and the second conveying unit 134 and the conveying assist mechanism 17. In this case, the medicine dispensing cassette 1 can increase the possibility that a medicine dispensed to the dispensing outlet 18 can be separated from subsequent medicines for medicines of various shapes. This increases the possibility that medicines can be dispensed one by one to the dispensing outlet 18. However, when the medicine dispensing cassette 1 is provided with both the first conveying unit 133 and the second conveying unit 134 and the conveying assist mechanism 17, this increases the possibility that a medicine dispensed to the dispensing outlet 18 can be separated from subsequent medicines. This increases the possibility that a medicine can be dispensed one by one to the dispensing outlet 18 more accurately.

[0144] As described above, when one drug falls from the dispensing outlet 18, the rotator control unit 51 reverses or stops the annular conveying unit 131. However, when two consecutive drugs are close to each other, depending on the shape of the drugs, the rotation in the forward direction before the reverse rotation or stoppage may cause the drug following the drug that fell from the dispensing outlet 18 to roll in the forward direction due to inertia. In this case, the subsequent drug may fall immediately after the preceding drug falls, causing the count sensor 101 to erroneously count the two drugs as one drug. According to the drug dispensing cassette 1 of this embodiment, the preceding drug and the subsequent drug can be separated. Therefore, even if the subsequent drug rolls slightly due to inertia as described above, the subsequent drug can be retained on the annular conveying unit 131. In other words, the possibility of erroneous counting due to the rolling of the subsequent drug can be reduced.

[0145] Furthermore, as described above, the medicine dispensing cassette 1 can accurately dispense medicines with a relatively simple configuration, which can contribute to the achievement of Goal 12 of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), "Responsible Consumption and Production."

[0146] [Software implementation example] The functions of the drug dispensing cassette 1 (hereinafter referred to as the "device") can be realized by a program that causes a computer to function as the device, and a program that causes a computer to function as each control block of the device (particularly each part included in the control unit 50).

[0147] In this case, the device includes a computer having at least one control device (e.g., a processor) and at least one storage device (e.g., a memory) as hardware for executing the program. The control device and storage device execute the program, thereby realizing the functions described in each of the above embodiments.

[0148] The program may be non-transitory and may be recorded on one or more computer-readable recording media. The recording media may or may not be included in the device. In the latter case, the program may be supplied to the device via any wired or wireless transmission medium.

[0149] Furthermore, some or all of the functions of the control blocks can be realized by logic circuits. For example, an integrated circuit in which a logic circuit that functions as each of the control blocks is formed is also included in the scope of the present invention. In addition, the functions of the control blocks can also be realized by, for example, a quantum computer.

[0150] [Additional Notes] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the claims. Embodiments obtained by appropriately combining the technical means disclosed in different embodiments are also included in the technical scope of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0151] 1. Drug dispensing cassette (drug dispensing device) 12 Receptor 13 Conveying section 15 Width control body (side wall) 16 Guide section (side wall) 17 Transport auxiliary mechanism 17A Rotating Plate 18 Payment outlet 122 Partition wall (side wall of receiving section) 122A Multiple teeth 131 Circular conveying section 132 Guide part (side wall) 133 First conveying section 133A Placement surface 133B 1st tooth 133C 2nd tooth 133D First magnet 134 Second conveying section 134A Placement surface 134B~134D Planetary gear 171 Rotation axis 172 Second Magnet P1 1st speed P2 2nd speed P3 peripheral speed Ro Passing route (transport route)

Claims

1. A medicine dispensing device that conveys an input medicine to a dispensing outlet and dispenses the medicine from the dispensing outlet, a receiving portion that receives the drug; a transport unit that has an annular portion located outside the receiving portion when viewed in a plane and transports the medicine to the dispensing outlet, The conveying unit is a first transport unit adjacent to the dispensing outlet and configured to transport the medicine while the medicine is placed thereon; a second transport unit located inside the first transport unit and configured to transport the medicine with the medicine placed thereon; a guide unit that guides the medicine from the second transport unit to the first transport unit and guides the medicine from the first transport unit to the dispensing outlet, the first transporting unit and the second transporting unit are capable of transporting the medicine such that a first speed of the medicine guided from the first transporting unit to the dispensing outlet is greater than a second speed of the medicine guided from the second transporting unit to the first transporting unit; The first transport unit and the second transport unit are They rotate around the same axis of rotation, Each of the medicines has a mounting surface on the same plane, on which the medicine is placed; The medicine dispensing device, wherein the guide section guides the medicine in a direction along the same plane on which the two placement surfaces are located.

2. The medicine dispensing device according to claim 1 , wherein the rotation speed of the first transporting unit is higher than the rotation speed of the second transporting unit.

3. the second conveying section includes at least one planetary gear; the first conveying portion includes a plurality of first teeth that engage with the planetary gear, and functions as an internal gear by the plurality of first teeth; The medicine dispensing device according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a sun gear located inside the second transporting section and having a plurality of teeth that engage with the planetary gears.

4. The medicine dispensing device according to claim 3 , wherein the plurality of teeth functioning as the sun gear are located on an upper portion of a side wall of the receiving portion.

5. the first conveying portion includes a plurality of second teeth at a position opposite to the plurality of first teeth, The medicine dispensing device according to claim 4 , wherein the first transporting unit and the second transporting unit are rotated by a driving force applied to the plurality of second teeth.

6. A drug dispensing device as described in claim 1, wherein the guide section is arranged above the storage surface so as to cross the first conveying section and the second conveying section.

7. The medicine dispensing device according to claim 1 , further comprising a transport assist mechanism that acts on the medicine placed on the first transport section to increase a transport speed of the medicine dispensed to the dispensing outlet.

8. The medicine dispensing device according to claim 7 , wherein the transport assist mechanism is at least one rotating plate that comes into contact with the medicine dispensed to the dispensing outlet.

9. The placement surfaces of the first transporting unit and the second transporting unit each include at least one side wall that defines a transport path for the medicine; The drug dispensing device of claim 8, wherein the rotating plate rotates around a rotation axis extending in a direction perpendicular to the placement surface, and a portion of the rotating plate protrudes from at least one side wall at a position of the first transport section adjacent to the dispensing outlet.

10. The medicine dispensing device according to claim 8 or 9, wherein a peripheral speed of the rotating plate is higher than the first speed.

11. A drug dispensing device that conveys an input drug to a dispensing outlet and dispenses the drug from the dispensing outlet, a receiving portion that receives the drug; a transport unit that has an annular portion located outside the receiving portion when viewed in a plane and transports the medicine to the dispensing outlet, The conveying unit is a first transport unit adjacent to the dispensing outlet and configured to transport the medicine while the medicine is placed thereon; a second transport unit located inside the first transport unit and configured to transport the medicine with the medicine placed thereon; a guide unit that guides the medicine from the second transport unit to the first transport unit and guides the medicine from the first transport unit to the dispensing outlet, the first transporting unit and the second transporting unit are capable of transporting the medicine such that a first speed of the medicine guided from the first transporting unit to the dispensing outlet is greater than a second speed of the medicine guided from the second transporting unit to the first transporting unit; a transport assist mechanism that acts on the medicine placed on the first transport unit to increase the transport speed of the medicine dispensed to the dispensing outlet; the transport assist mechanism is at least one rotating plate that comes into contact with the medicine dispensed to the dispensing outlet, the first transport unit has a placement surface on which the medicine is placed, the rotating plate has a rotation axis extending in a direction perpendicular to the placement surface, a first magnet is provided in the first transport unit at a position outside the rotation shaft; A drug dispensing device in which a second magnet is provided on the rotating plate at a position along the circumferential direction of the rotating plate and at a position that faces the first magnet when the first conveying section or the rotating plate is rotated.

12. A medicine dispensing device that conveys an input medicine to a dispensing outlet and dispenses the medicine from the dispensing outlet, a receiving portion that receives the drug; a transport unit that has an annular portion located outside the receiving portion when viewed in a plane and transports the medicine to the dispensing outlet, The conveying unit is an annular conveying unit adjacent to the dispensing outlet that conveys the medicine with the medicine placed thereon; a guide unit that guides the medicine from the annular transport unit to the dispensing outlet, At least one side wall defining a transport path for the medicine on a placement surface of the annular transport unit on which the medicine is placed; a rotating plate that rotates around a rotation axis extending in a direction perpendicular to the placement surface and that partially protrudes from the at least one side wall at a position of the annular conveying section adjacent to the dispensing outlet, The annular conveying section includes: a first transport unit adjacent to the dispensing outlet and configured to transport the medicine while the medicine is placed thereon; a second transport unit located inside the first transport unit and transporting the medicine with the medicine placed thereon; The first transport unit and the second transport unit are They rotate around the same axis of rotation, The mounting surfaces are each provided with a mounting surface positioned on the same plane, The medicine dispensing device, wherein the guide section guides the medicine in a direction along the same plane on which the two placement surfaces are located.

Images