Drug dispensing device

Abstract

To provide a drug imaging device and a drug packaging device configured to perform both imaging of embossing or the like on a drug and imaging for determining a drug quantity in a pooling portion for the drug, thereby shortening processing time of a drug imaging process and the like.SOLUTION: A drug packaging device includes a drug accommodating / dispensing unit (11) that supplies various types of drugs, a drug packaging portion (45) in which a drug supplied from the drug accommodating / dispensing unit (11) is packaged in a packaging sheet (S), a drug packaging introducing member (7) that drops the drug to be packaged into the packaging sheet (S) in the drug packaging portion (45), a pooling portion (50) that pools, upstream of this drug packaging introducing member (7), the drug, and a drug imaging device (6) that captures an image of the drug in the pooling portion (50). The drug imaging device (6) performs an imaging process of capturing an image of the drug in the pooling portion (50) in a non-backlit state, and an imaging process of capturing an image of the drug in the pooling portion (50) in a backlit state.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a drug imaging device that images drugs such as tablets and capsules before packaging, and a drug packaging device that packages the imaged drugs.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a drug packaging device including a drug supply unit that supplies various drugs, a drug packaging unit that packages the drugs supplied from the drug supply unit with packaging paper, an introduction member that introduces the packaged drugs into the packaging paper in the drug packaging unit, and a drug check unit that determines whether the drug adheres to the introduction member based on an image of the introduction member.

[0003] The drug check unit includes a drug identification unit that rotates the drug in a drug rotation unit where a pair of rotating rollers are arranged, photographs the imprint and printing of the drug, and makes a determination, and a number determination unit that photographs the drugs to be packaged on the upstream side of the introduction member and determines the number of drugs.

[0004] Further, Patent Document 2 discloses a drug information acquisition device. The bottom of an imaging tray that temporarily holds a single package of drugs is configured by a groove array of V-shaped grooves. By vibrating the imaging tray after the drugs are put in, the overlap of a single package of drugs is eliminated, and the posture of the drugs is corrected by the first inclined surface and the second inclined surface of the V-shaped grooves. Two cameras are respectively disposed facing the first inclined surface and the second inclined surface of the V-shaped grooves.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Summary of the Invention

[0006] A drug packaging device according to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises a drug supply unit for supplying various drugs, a drug packaging unit for packaging the drugs supplied from the drug supply unit with packaging paper, and a plurality of storage units for temporarily storing the drugs supplied from the drug supply unit upstream of the drug packaging unit, the drug packaging device further comprises a drug receiving plate unit which is rotationally driven around an axis and has a plurality of openings on the same circumference around the axis, a portion which functions as the bottom of the openings, and a drug receiving bottom unit which has a packaging opening provided at a specific location in the region in which the openings move due to the rotation of the rotating plate unit, and the plurality of storage units are composed of the openings and the portion which functions as the bottom of the openings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1] This is an explanatory diagram showing a schematic configuration of a drug packaging device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] Figure 1 is an explanatory diagram showing the packaging unit of the drug dispensing device. [Figure 3] Figure (A) is an explanatory diagram showing the schematic configuration of the drug packaging device shown in Figure 1, and Figure (B) is an explanatory diagram showing an example configuration in which a dimming member is used instead of a surface-emitting member. [Figure 4] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing the drug storage unit and drug imaging device of the drug packaging apparatus. [Figure 5] Figure 4 is a perspective view showing the first camera and other components omitted. [Figure 6] Figure 5 is a perspective view showing the residual detection camera and other components omitted. [Figure 7] Figure 6 is a perspective view showing the drug receiving tray with the upper plate omitted. [Figure 8] Figure 7 is a magnified perspective view of the drug receiving tray. [Figure 9] Figure (A) is a plan view of the drug receiving tray with the top plate omitted, and Figure (B) is a cross-sectional view taken along the line AA with the top plate in place. [Figure 10]It is a perspective view showing the medicine receiving bottom part located under the medicine receiving tray part. [Figure 11] It is a perspective view showing the bottom surface side of the medicine receiving tray part. [Figure 12] It is a perspective view showing the omission of the medicine receiving tray part in FIG. 6. [Figure 13] It is a schematic block diagram showing a part of the control system of the medicine packaging device in FIG. 1. [Figure 14] It is an explanatory diagram showing an example of an inspection support image in the medicine packaging device in FIG. 1. [Figure 15] It is an explanatory diagram showing the structure on the central side of the medicine receiving tray part. [Figure 16] It is an explanatory diagram showing the bottom surface side of the medicine receiving tray part and the cleaning device. [Figure 17] It is an explanatory diagram showing the cleaning switching operation part, the motor, the cleaning device, etc. [Figure 18] It is an explanatory diagram showing the state where the scraper of the cleaning device is raised from the state of FIG. 17. [Figure 19] It is an explanatory diagram showing a modified example of medicine powder recovery. [Figure 20] It is an explanatory diagram showing another modified example of medicine powder recovery. [Figure 21] It is an explanatory diagram showing a modified example of medicine powder recovery. [Figure 22] It is an explanatory diagram showing the arrangement position etc. of the second light emitting part. [Figure 23] It is an explanatory diagram showing the arrangement position etc. of the third light emitting part. [Figure 24] It is an explanatory diagram showing the deployment guide and the third light emitting part arranged in the deployment guide. [Figure 25] It is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example in which residual medicine in the medicine packaging introduction member and the packaging paper is detected by two residual detection cameras. [Figure 26] It is a flowchart showing an overview of the photographing operation and the packaging operation in the configuration example shown in FIG. 25.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0008] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described based on the accompanying drawings. As shown in FIG. 1, the drug packaging apparatus 1 of this embodiment is a drug storage and dispensing unit 11 that stores drugs by type and can dispense the drugs one pack at a time according to the packaging data created based on the prescription information. It also includes a drug guidance unit 12 that receives the drugs, a drug storage unit 5 that temporarily stores the drugs, a drug imaging device 6 of this embodiment that takes still images of the drugs supplied to the drug storage unit 5, and a packaging unit 4 to which a packaging paper roll 400 and an ink ribbon cassette 401 are attached. The packaging unit 4 prints on the packaging paper S supplied from the packaging paper roll 400 and uses the packaging paper S to package the drugs that have passed through the drug storage unit 5 one pack at a time. The printing mechanism including the ink ribbon cassette is not necessarily required. The drug storage and dispensing unit 11 includes a cassette for drugs in which various drugs are stored and a universal cassette that can store drugs that are not suitable for storage in the cassette. Specifically, the cassette for drugs is a dedicated cassette prepared for each drug, with the size of the drug dispensing path corresponding to the shape and size of each drug. The universal cassette is a general-purpose cassette that can dispense drugs of various shapes and sizes by adjusting the size of the drug dispensing path and the driving conditions as needed. Also, the prescription information includes, for example, the normal drug types and quantities. However, information regarding the marks on the drugs (such as the presence or absence of marks and information on the external shape of the marks), size, shape, and color can be obtained by referring to the drug master table described later based on the drug types.

[0009] Also, the drug packaging apparatus 1 includes a hand - scattering part 13. In this hand - scattering part 13, compartments are arranged in a grid pattern, and drugs can be placed in each compartment. For example, if the morning, noon, and evening prescriptions are for one day, drugs will be placed in three compartments.

[0010] The drugs dispensed from the drug storage and dispensing unit 11 and the drugs manually dispensed from the manual dispensing unit 13 pass through the drug guide unit 12 and other components to the drug storage unit 5. The drugs residing in the drug storage unit 5 are photographed using the drug imaging device 6, and then packaged in individual packets using the packaging unit 4. In other words, in this embodiment, one packet of drugs is discharged through the combined operation of the drug storage and dispensing unit 11 and the manual dispensing unit 13. The path from the drugs discharged from the drug storage and dispensing unit 11 and the manual dispensing unit 13 to the drug storage unit 5 will be described later using Figure 4 and other references.

[0011] Figure 2 shows an example of the packaging unit 4 with the above-mentioned packaging paper roll 400 and ink ribbon cassette 401 installed. Figure 2 also shows the drug packaging section 45 of the packaging unit 4. This drug packaging section 45, for example, introduces the drug through the opening of the folded packaging paper S and heat-seals the packaging paper S to seal the introduced drug.

[0012] The above-mentioned packaging paper S is, for example, placed on three guide shafts 4a, passed between the backup roller 4b and the print head 4e, and then placed on the guide shaft 4c. The ink ribbon R housed in the ink ribbon cassette 401 is guided by the tape guide of the packaging unit 4, passes between the backup roller 4b and the print head 4e, detaches from the packaging paper S after printing, and returns to the ink ribbon cassette 401.

[0013] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 2, for example, near the guide shaft 4c that guides the packaging paper S (downstream in the transport direction of the packaging paper S), rotatable curved guide rollers 45b and 45c are arranged to curve the transport direction of the packaging paper S just before the unfolding guide 45a of the drug packaging section 45. The folded packaging paper S is opened by passing over the guide surface (front surface) of the unfolding guide 45a. On the non-guide surface (back surface) of the unfolding guide 45a, in other words, above the opened portion of the packaging paper S, a drug packaging introduction member 7 (see Figure 3(A), etc.) for introducing the drug into the packaging paper S is provided.

[0014] The above-mentioned drug packaging introduction member 7 has a shape that is narrow at the bottom. As described above, the folded packaging paper S passes over the guide surface of the unfolding guide 45a, causing the packaging paper S to open. As a result, an opening is formed in the packaging paper S, which is the opened portion, at a position close to the lower end of the drug packaging introduction member 7. The opening of the packaging paper S is the point where the drug falls from the drug packaging introduction member 7.

[0015] Furthermore, the drug packaging section 45 is equipped with a heat-sealing member (for example, a pair of heater rollers 45d, 45e) on the downstream side of the unfolding guide 45a in the direction of transport of the packaging paper S. In addition, a feed roller (not shown) is provided on the downstream side of the heater rollers 45d, 45e in the direction of transport of the packaging paper S. These heater rollers 45d, 45e are rotationally driven by a drive mechanism (not shown) consisting of a motor, linear gears, intermittent gears, etc. The heater rollers 45d, 45e allow the packaging paper S to travel at a predetermined speed. The heater rollers 45d, 45e also close the opening of the packaging paper S and seal the packaging paper S in the direction of the short side of the packaging paper S, so that one packet of drug that enters the opening is individually packaged.

[0016] Figure 3(A) shows the overall schematic configuration of the drug packaging device 1. The drug storage unit 5 and the drug imaging device 6 are located between the drug storage and dispensing unit 11 and the packaging unit 4.

[0017] The above-described drug storage unit 5 has an upper plate portion 51 and a lower plate portion 52. The drug storage unit 5 also has a drug receiving plate portion 501 in the space between the upper plate portion 51 and the lower plate portion 52. This drug receiving plate portion 501 comprises a disc-shaped rotating plate portion 5010, an upper plate 5011 fixed to the upper side of the rotating plate portion 5010, and a drug receiving bottom portion 5012 located on the lower side of the rotating plate portion 5010 and not fixed to the rotating plate portion 5010.

[0018] As shown in Figure 4, the drug transfer unit 2, the first camera 61, etc. are attached to the upper surface of the upper plate portion 51. As shown in Figure 5, the rotating plate portion 5010 and the upper plate 5011 of the drug receiving plate portion 501 are rotatable in the horizontal plane around the axis 504 on the upper side of the lower plate portion 52 (within the above space). The drug receiving bottom portion 5012 is attached so as not to rotate on the lower plate portion 52 and is also attached so as to be removable from the lower plate portion 52. For example, a protrusion is provided on the lower plate portion 52 that projects upward, and by engaging this protrusion with a recess 5012d (see Figure 10) on the outer circumference of the drug receiving bottom portion 5012, rotation is prevented. A motor 503, etc. are attached to the upper surface of the lower plate portion 52. Furthermore, a drug packaging introduction member 7, the second camera 62, etc. are attached to the lower side of the lower plate portion 52.

[0019] As shown in Figure 6, a gear portion 501a is formed on the outer circumferential surface of the rotating disc portion 5010 in the drug receiving disc portion 501, and a gear 503a is meshed with this gear portion 501a. The rotating disc portion 5010 is rotated when the gear 503a is driven by the motor 503. Furthermore, the rotating disc portion 5010 can be rotated intermittently in predetermined increments in the forward direction by the drive control of the motor 503. In addition, the rotating disc portion 5010 can be rotated in forward and reverse directions by the drive control of the motor 503. Overlapping of drugs within the storage portion 50 can be resolved by rotating the rotating disc portion 5010 in forward and reverse directions.

[0020] The drug receiving plate 501, which comprises the rotating plate 5010 and the drug receiving bottom 5012, has, for example, eight storage sections 50. Each storage section 50 temporarily stores the drug before it is packaged. The eight storage sections 50 are located at regular intervals on the same circumference centered on the axis 504. The drug supplied to each storage section 50 is supported by the drug receiving bottom 5012. The rotating plate 5010 is detachable from the drug receiving bottom 5012.

[0021] As shown in Figures 7 and 8, each storage section 50 is composed of a cylindrical section (opening) 50a made of a light-transmitting transparent material (such as resin) and a drug receiving bottom section 5012 that functions as the bottom of the cylindrical section 50a, with the drug being stored inside the cylindrical section 50a. The drug receiving bottom section 5012 is positioned horizontally, and the direction perpendicular to it is the vertical direction. The imaging optical axes of the cameras 61, 62, and 66, which will be described later, are vertically oriented toward the drug receiving bottom section 5012 that functions as the bottom of the cylindrical section (opening) 50a. In addition, an inclined mirror section 6a, which forms a frustoconical mirror surface that is further apart towards the upper side from the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical section 50a, is arranged around the cylindrical section 50a.

[0022] The cylindrical portion 50a is located in the center of the inclined mirror portion 6a. The lower end of the inclined mirror portion 6a is in contact with the outer circumference of the lower end of the cylindrical portion 50a. The upper end surface of the cylindrical portion 50a is processed to be a frosted glass surface (a surface with minute irregularities) or a light-opaque surface. Furthermore, the upper plate 5011 has a rectangular opening formed at the location where the cylindrical portion 50a is located, which matches the planar shape of the cylindrical portion 50a, and the drug can reach the inside of the cylindrical portion 50a through this rectangular opening. The upper plate 5011 is either entirely transparent, or at least the portion located above the inclined mirror portion 6a is transparent.

[0023] The inner shape of the cylindrical portion 50a is a polygonal cylinder consisting of multiple planes, and in a plan view of the cylindrical portion 50a, it is, for example, hexagonal. The outer shape of the cylindrical portion 50a is circular. Furthermore, the inclined mirror portion 6a reflects light from above toward the cylindrical portion 50a, so that the chemical inside the cylindrical portion 50a can be illuminated with side light (light in a direction intersecting the optical axis of the camera 61). When a large amount of such side light is obtained, the markings on the chemical can be photographed favorably. Alternatively, instead of the inclined mirror portion 6a, a light-emitting element that emits light toward the side of the cylindrical portion 50a may be provided on the outer circumference of the cylindrical portion 50a.

[0024] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 9(A) and 9(B), the connection points R1 between adjacent surfaces on the six faces of the cylindrical portion 50a of the storage section 50 are formed in a curved shape (R: radius). The lower end of the cylindrical portion 50a forms, for example, a hexagonal opening in plan view.

[0025] The drug receiving bottom portion 5012 is made of a light-transmitting transparent material (such as resin). A packaging opening 5012a is formed at a predetermined position on the drug receiving bottom portion 5012, as shown in Figure 10. The drug packaging introduction member 7 is located below the packaging opening 5012a, and when the cylindrical portion 50a of the storage portion 50 is positioned above the packaging opening 5012a, the drug in the storage portion 50 falls into the drug packaging introduction member 7 and reaches the packaging paper S. In other words, the packaging opening 5012a is located at a specific point in the region where the cylindrical portion (opening) 50a moves due to the rotation of the rotating disc portion 5010. Similarly, an opening is formed in the lower plate portion 52 at a position corresponding to the packaging opening 5012a.

[0026] As the rotating disc portion 5010 of the drug receiving disc portion 501 rotates on the drug receiving bottom portion 5012, each storage portion 50 moves sequentially to the first drug receiving position P1, the second drug receiving position P2, the third drug receiving position P3, the unprocessed position P4, the fourth drug receiving position P5, the drug imaging position P6, the drug discharge position P7 (packaging position) where the packaging opening 5012a is formed, and the remaining drug confirmation position P8, as shown in Figures 6 and 7. Multiple wheels 56 (see Figure 11) are attached to the lower surface of the rotating disc portion 5010, and the drug receiving bottom portion 5012 supports the load of the rotating disc portion 5010, while a constant gap is maintained between the upper surface of the drug receiving bottom portion 5012 and the lower surface of the rotating disc portion 5010 so that they do not slide against each other. This gap reduces the adverse effects on the rotation of the rotating disc 5010 caused by drug powder (drug debris), thereby reducing the frequency of cleaning. Furthermore, a drug powder collection groove 5012c (see Figure 10) is formed in the drug receiving bottom 5012 at a position inward from its outer edge.

[0027] At the first drug receiving position P1, the drug transferred by the drug transfer unit 2 falls into the storage unit 50 located at position P1. The drug transfer unit 2 has a hopper 21 located below the drug guide unit 12 and above the remaining drug confirmation position P8. Furthermore, the drug transfer unit 2 has a belt-driven transfer unit 22. This transfer unit 22 is located between the bottom of the hopper 21 and the first drug receiving position P1, and transfers the drug received from the hopper 21 into the storage unit 50 at the first drug receiving position P1. By providing an ionizer that emits ions into the hopper 21, it is possible to suppress the drug from adhering to the inside of the hopper 21 due to static electricity.

[0028] Drugs are supplied to the second drug receiving position P2 mentioned above from other drug supply units.

[0029] At the third drug receiving position P3 described above, the drug supplied from a universal cassette (not shown) is supplied into the storage section 50 located at position P3 via the guide tube 201 and the supply opening 201a. The universal cassette can supply the drug regardless of its shape and automatically dispenses the drug instead of manually dispensing it. As mentioned above, the drug storage and dispensing unit 11 is equipped with multiple cassettes, some of which are universal cassettes. Furthermore, by providing an ionizer that emits ions into the guide tube 201, it is possible to suppress the drug from adhering to the inside of the guide tube 201 or the storage section 50 due to static electricity.

[0030] At the fourth drug receiving position P5 described above, the drug supplied from the hand-spreading unit 13 is supplied into the storage unit 50 located at position P5 via a hopper (not shown) and a supply opening 202.

[0031] At the drug imaging position P6, the drug (for example, multiple drugs in one packet) is temporarily stored in the storage unit 50 located at position P6. The drug imaging device 6 is located near the drug imaging position P6.

[0032] The above-described drug imaging device 6 has an imaging unit 60 for taking still images of the subject. In this embodiment, the imaging unit 60 includes a first camera 61 that takes color images of the drug in the storage unit 50 located at the drug imaging position P6 from above, a second camera 62 that takes color images of the drug in the storage unit 50 from below, an upper illumination unit 63 that illuminates the drug in the storage unit 50 from above, an inclined mirror unit 6a (which may be replaced by a light-emitting element) that illuminates the drug in the storage unit 50 from the side, and a lower illumination unit 64 that illuminates the drug in the storage unit 50 from below.

[0033] The area around the light-receiving port of the first camera 61 is in contact with the outer surface of the housing 6001 of the upper illumination unit 63. Furthermore, a sealing member (such as an O-ring) is placed at this contact point. This sealing member prevents dust and other debris from entering the housing 6001 from the first camera 61 side.

[0034] Furthermore, the imaging unit 60 of the drug imaging device 6 is equipped with a surface-emitting member 65 below the lower illumination unit 64. The portion of the lower plate 52 corresponding to the drug imaging position P6 is transparent or open. The surface-emitting member 65 has, for example, a rectangular shape and can switch between a surface-emitting state and a transparent state. In the surface-emitting state, the imaging of the drug for the first camera 61 is done against the light. The surface-emitting member 65 consists, for example, a rectangular transparent light guide plate and a light-emitting element (LED, etc.) that emits light toward the edge of the transparent light guide plate. The surface-emitting member 65 is transparent when the light-emitting element is not lit. The surface-emitting member 65 may be located above the lower illumination unit 64.

[0035] The lower illumination unit 64 and the surface light-emitting member 65 are located inside the housing 6002. The area around the light-inlet of the second camera 62 is in contact with the outer surface of the housing 6002. Furthermore, a sealing member (such as an O-ring) is placed at this contact point. This sealing member prevents dust and other debris from entering the housing 6002 from the second camera 62 side.

[0036] Then, the imaging unit 60, under the control of the controller 8 shown in Figure 13, performs the following processes: a first imaging process in which the upper illumination unit 63 is turned on and the drug in the storage unit 50 is photographed from above using the first camera 61 in a non-backlit state (either front light, side light, or a mixture of front and side light); a second imaging process in which the surface light-emitting member 65 is turned on and the drug in the storage unit 50 is photographed from above using the first camera 61 in a backlit state; and a third imaging process in which the lower illumination unit 64 is turned on and the drug in the storage unit 50 is photographed from below using the second camera 62 in a non-backlit state (either front light, side light, or a mixture of front and side light).

[0037] The combinations of the above-mentioned shooting and lighting processes are shown in Table 1 below. [Table 1]

[0038] By performing the second imaging process described above, the drug in the storage section 50 is photographed in a backlit state, resulting in an image where the bottom of the storage section 50 is bright and the image of the drug is dark. In other words, the number of drug shadows (dark areas) in the captured image can be used to determine the number of drug particles.

[0039] The upper first camera 61 is located above the drug imaging position P6. The upper first camera 61 also includes a mirror 61a that reflects the image in the storage section 50 in the lateral direction, an image sensor (CCD, CMOS, etc.) 61b that receives the image reflected by the mirror 61a, and various lenses that form an image on the image sensor 61b.

[0040] The lower second camera 62 is located below the drug imaging position P6. The lower second camera 62 includes a mirror 62a that reflects the image in the storage unit 50 in the lateral direction, an image sensor (CCD, CMOS, etc.) 62b that receives the image reflected by the mirror 62a, and various lenses that form an image on the image sensor 62b.

[0041] The upper illumination unit 63 consists of numerous light-emitting elements (LEDs, etc.) arranged in a ring shape, and has a transparent or hollow structure that transmits light in the center. The ring-shaped light-emitting elements are located on the outside of the cylindrical portion 50a of the storage unit 50 and above the inclined mirror portion 6a. The light emitted from the upper illumination unit 63 is reflected laterally by the inclined mirror portion 6a and guided into the storage unit 50 (cylindrical portion 50a) in a side-light state, and a portion of the light emitted from the upper illumination unit 63 reaches the inside of the cylindrical portion 50a of the storage unit 50 as direct light for the first camera 61.

[0042] When light enters the cylindrical portion 50a from the upper end surface, light is emitted from the inner circumferential surface of the cylindrical portion 50a, creating a light pattern at the bottom of the cylindrical portion 50a (the area of ​​the drug receiving bottom portion 5012). If the upper end surface of the cylindrical portion 50a is processed to be a frosted glass surface (a surface with minute irregularities) or a light-opaque surface, the occurrence of the light pattern can be suppressed. This prevents the light pattern from appearing in captured images and negatively affecting drug identification. Similarly, processing the lower end surface of the cylindrical portion 50a will suppress the transmission of illumination light from below through the cylindrical portion 50a.

[0043] A gap of 0.5 mm or more and 1.5 mm or less may be formed between the lower end surface of the cylindrical portion 50a and the drug receiving bottom portion 5012. When such a gap is formed, the shadows cast on the image of the drug that is close to the inner surface of the cylindrical portion 50a are reduced.

[0044] The connection points R1 of each hexagonal surface of the cylindrical portion 50a of the storage portion 50 have a curved (R) shape, as described above. In a structure where the connection points R1 of each surface do not have the curved shape, light from the outside is refracted at the connection points R1 of each surface, causing uneven illumination at the bottom surface of the storage portion 50. When the cylindrical portion 50a has a curved shape at the connection points R1, the light is diffused toward the cylindrical portion 50a by the curved shape, making it less likely for the uneven illumination to occur. It is preferable that the thickness of the curved portion and other parts be the same. Furthermore, if the inner surface of the cylindrical portion 50a is square, it is easier to eliminate overlapping of the drug inside the storage portion 50.

[0045] The lower illumination unit 64 consists of numerous light-emitting elements (LEDs, etc.) arranged in a ring shape outside the inner circumference of the cylindrical portion 50a located at the drug exposure position P6, so as not to interfere with backlit photography. The central side has a transparent or hollow structure that transmits light. The light-emitting axis of the light-emitting elements is not limited to the direction directly upward. For example, the light-emitting axis of the light-emitting elements may be directed towards the center of the bottom of the storage portion 50.

[0046] Furthermore, the first, second, and third imaging processes described above may be performed multiple times (for example, five times) within a certain period of time. In particular, it is preferable to set the time interval between the first and third imaging processes to, for example, within a certain period of time. Also, by increasing the shutter speed during the first and third imaging processes, blurring of the image of the drug can be suppressed. Here, immediately after the rotating disc 5010 of the drug receiving disc 501 rotates intermittently and the storage disc 50 stops on the drug imaging position P6, the drug in the storage disc 50 is in a state of vibration or rolling. If it is necessary to wait for this vibration or rolling state to subside, the time required to photograph the drug will be longer.

[0047] As described above, when the same subject is photographed multiple times within a certain period of time, multiple images are obtained, making it statistically easier to obtain an image in which the engraved or printed surface of the drug is facing the camera, thereby improving the recognition rate of the engraving, etc. Furthermore, if the time interval between the first and third imaging processes is constant, it is less likely that the position of the drug in the first imaging process and the position of the same drug in the third imaging process will be misaligned. Therefore, whether or not the drug is the same in both images can be estimated from the correspondence between the drug positions in the image taken from above by the first imaging process and the image taken from below by the third imaging process, both within the same period of time.

[0048] The drug checking unit (determination unit) 82 may, for example, select the image with the largest number of drug shadows (dark areas) from among the multiple images obtained in the second imaging process, determine the number of drugs based on this selected image, and determine whether the required number of drugs are present in the storage unit 50 by comparing this determined number with the number of drugs indicated in the prescription information (packaging data). Alternatively, the image with the largest total area of ​​drug shadows (dark areas) may be selected. Furthermore, the drug checking unit 82 may select the image obtained in the first and third imaging processes at the time closest to the time the selected image was taken as the image for determining the type of drug. It is desirable that the second imaging process be performed after the rotating disc 5010 of the drug receiving disc 501 has intermittently rotated and before the storage unit 50 stops on the drug imaging position P6. It is desirable to perform the process as described above because drugs may overlap after stopping.

[0049] If the drug checking unit 82 determines that the number of drugs and the drug information described later for the drugs in the storage unit 50 located on the drug imaging position P6 are not correct by referring to the packaging data (feature data described later), the controller 8 may rotate the rotating disc 5010 of the drug receiving plate 501 in forward and reverse directions to roll the drugs in the storage unit 50 and perform the first, second, and third imaging processes again. Alternatively, an alert may be output as an error handling measure.

[0050] On the other hand, if the drug check unit 82 determines that the number of drugs in the storage unit 50 located on the drug imaging position P6 and the drug information described later are correct by referring to the packaging data (feature data described later), the controller 8 rotates the rotating disc 5010 of the drug receiving disc 501 45 degrees forward, moving the storage unit 50 on the drug imaging position P6 to the drug discharge position P7 (packaging position) where the packaging opening 5012a is formed. As a result, the drugs in the storage unit 50 reach the packaging paper S through the packaging opening 5012a and the drug packaging introduction member 7.

[0051] Above the drug discharge position P7 (packaging position) described above, the first residue detection camera 601, the second residue detection camera 602, and the third residue detection camera 603 are located. In addition, an illumination unit consisting of LEDs or the like is provided to illuminate the shooting range of each residue detection camera. Sensors may be used instead of the residue detection cameras 601, 602, and 603.

[0052] The first residue detection camera 601 photographs the inside of the opening of the packaging paper S through the packaging opening 5012a. Based on the results of this photography, it is possible to automatically or by visual inspection by an inspector to confirm whether there are any drugs (drugs that should have been packaged earlier) or foreign objects inside the opening of the packaging paper S.

[0053] Furthermore, the second residue detection camera 602 photographs the relay section 71 of the drug packaging introduction member 7. Based on the results of this photography, it is possible to automatically or visually confirm whether or not drug is adhering to the relay section 71 of the drug packaging introduction member 7.

[0054] Furthermore, the third residue detection camera 603 photographs the final part of the drug packaging introduction member 7 (the lower part of the chute section 72, which is located below the intermediate section 71). Based on the results of this photography, it is possible to automatically or visually confirm whether or not drug is adhering to the final part of the drug packaging introduction member 7.

[0055] As shown in Figure 2, the above-mentioned lighting unit comprises a first light-emitting unit 451, a second light-emitting unit 452, and a third light-emitting unit 453.

[0056] The first light-emitting unit 451 illuminates the inside of the drug packaging introduction member 7 from a position above the drug discharge position P7. A portion of the light emitted from the first light-emitting unit 451 is not blocked by the drug packaging introduction member 7, but exits through the opening at the bottom of the drug packaging introduction member 7 and reaches a position near the area between the heater roller 45d and the heater roller 45e.

[0057] As shown in Figure 22, the second light-emitting unit 452 illuminates the area between the heater roller 45d and the heater roller 45e from a position on the side of the drug packaging introduction member 7. The light emitted from the second light-emitting unit 452 passes through the packaging paper S and reaches the opening of the packaging paper S, which has been opened by the guide surface (surface) of the unfolding guide 45a.

[0058] As shown in Figures 23 and 24, the third light-emitting unit 453 is mounted in a recess on the non-guide surface (back side) of the unfolding guide 45a, and, like the second light-emitting unit 452, illuminates the area near the position between the heater roller 45d and the heater roller 45e. The light emitted from the third light-emitting unit 453 reaches the opening of the packaging paper S without passing through the packaging paper S. A transparent cover 45aa is attached to the opening side of the recess of the unfolding guide 45a to cover the third light-emitting unit 453, preventing drug powder or the like from falling onto the third light-emitting unit 453. Because the third light-emitting unit 453 can be positioned near the opening of the folded packaging paper S, it can brightly illuminate the inside of the opening of the packaging paper S. The electrical wire connected to the third light-emitting unit 453 is routed, for example, between the unfolding guide 45a and the cover 45aa and exits the recess.

[0059] The first light-emitting section 451, the second light-emitting section 452, and the third light-emitting section 453 may be adjustable in brightness (light intensity) by a dimmer. Furthermore, the third light-emitting section 453 is not limited to being located in a recess on the non-guide surface (back surface) of the unfolding guide 45a. The third light-emitting section 453 itself may enter through the opening of the packaging paper S and be located inside the opening to illuminate the inside of the opening. Such a third light-emitting section 453 may be supported, for example, by a thin rod-shaped or wire-shaped support member and enter through the opening of the packaging paper S and be located inside the opening. The support source can be the non-guide surface (back surface) of the unfolding guide 45a or the tip of the chute section 72.

[0060] In the example above, three residual detection cameras 601, 602, and 603 were placed above the drug discharge position P7 (packaging position), but the configuration is not limited to this. The entire or a part of the drug packaging introduction member 7 may be provided to be movable in the lateral direction, etc., and the inside of the drug packaging introduction member 7 after the movement may be photographed by a residual detection camera placed at the movable part. This would reduce the number of residual detection cameras placed on the storage section 50 and avoid the structural complexity caused by the dense arrangement of cameras on the storage section 50.

[0061] Alternatively, the system may be configured with two residual detection cameras (A) and (B) positioned above the drug discharge position P7 (packaging position). In this configuration, as shown in Figure 25, the residual detection camera (A) has a deep depth of field and photographs the area from the intermediate section 71 of the drug packaging introduction member 7 to approximately the midpoint of the chute section 72 (hereinafter referred to as the upper area). The residual detection camera (B) also has a deep depth of field and photographs the area from approximately the midpoint of the chute section 72 of the drug packaging introduction member 7 to the opening of the packaging paper S (hereinafter referred to as the lower area). The shooting ranges of the two residual detection cameras (A) and (B) overlap approximately at the midpoint of the chute section 72.

[0062] Even in the configuration where the two residual detection cameras (A) and (B) described above are arranged, it is desirable that the lighting unit be equipped with three light-emitting units (a), (b), and (c). For example, light-emitting unit (a) is positioned near the installation position of the residual detection camera, light-emitting unit (b) is positioned in the packaging unit 4 (preferably the drug packaging unit 45), and light-emitting unit (c) is positioned on the non-guide side (back side) of the unfolding guide 45a.

[0063] In an example of control in the configuration having the two residual detection cameras (A) and (B) described above, with only the light-emitting unit (a) illuminated, the residual detection camera (A) captures the upper area (first shooting operation). That is, in the first shooting operation, the upper area of ​​the inner wall surface of the drug packaging introduction member 7 is the shooting range, and this first shooting operation is used to determine whether or not drug is adhering to the inner wall surface.

[0064] Meanwhile, with all light-emitting units (a), (b), and (c) illuminated, the upper and lower regions are photographed by the residual detection cameras (A) and (B) (second shooting operation). In other words, the shooting range in the second shooting operation is the entire inner wall surface of the drug packaging introduction member 7 and the opening of the packaging paper S. If it is determined that even one drug particle is present on the entire inner wall surface of the drug packaging introduction member 7 and in the opening of the packaging paper S before the drug to be dispensed into the opening of the packaging paper S has started, then it is determined that there is residual drug. In the second shooting operation, by illuminating not only light-emitting unit (a) but also light-emitting units (b) and (c), the overall light intensity of the illumination is increased, and the opening of the packaging paper S can be illuminated from multiple directions, so that even if there is only one drug particle in the opening of the packaging paper S, it can be accurately detected. It is also possible to configure the second shooting operation so that light-emitting unit (a) is not illuminated.

[0065] As shown in the flowchart in Figure 26, the second imaging operation described above is performed (S1) with the Kth package (K is a natural number, and the maximum value is the number of packages set N) of medication located at the medication imaging position P6. If K=1, information can be obtained as to whether any remaining medication from a previous prescription's medication package remains inside the opening of the current prescription's packaging paper S at the medication discharge position P7. If K=2 or later, information can be obtained as to whether any medication that should be packaged earlier in the current prescription remains inside the opening of the packaging paper S in the subsequent package. Note that if several empty packages are generated between different prescriptions, the second imaging operation when K=1 may be omitted.

[0066] After the second shooting operation described above, when the rotating disc 5010 rotates 45 degrees, the K-packet of medication according to the current prescription is dropped from the medication discharge position P7, through the medication packaging introduction member 7, into the opening of the packaging paper S (S2). This dropping process is photographed using the first shooting operation described above (S3). That is, with only the light-emitting unit (a) illuminated, the upper area is photographed by the residual detection camera (A).

[0067] Furthermore, the residual drug detection imaging for the Kth package of the prescription will begin from the first imaging operation (S3) described above. In addition, if the first imaging operation determines that no drug is adhering to the inner wall of the drug packaging introduction member 7, and if a portion of the drug to be packaged has moved to the position of the subsequent K+1th package while the Kth package is being packaged, then in the next second imaging operation, drug residue inside the opening of the packaging paper S will be detected.

[0068] After the first imaging operation described above, the packaging operation for one sachet is performed (S4). Next, K is incremented (S5), and it is determined whether K has exceeded N (S6). If K has not exceeded N, the process proceeds to the second imaging operation for the subsequent drug packaging (S1). If K has exceeded N, K is reset (S7), and imaging is performed for the packaging of the next prescription.

[0069] As shown in Figure 12, a third camera 66 is located below the remaining drug confirmation position P8. This third camera 66 photographs the inside of the storage unit 50 after the drug stored in the storage unit 50 has been transferred to the drug packaging unit 45 and moved to the remaining drug confirmation position P8. For example, the third camera 66 includes a mirror 66a that reflects the image of the inner surface of the cylindrical portion 50a of the storage unit 50 located at the remaining drug confirmation position P8 in the lateral direction, an image sensor (CCD, CMOS, etc.) 66b that receives the image reflected by the mirror 66a, and various lenses that focus the image onto the image sensor 66b. A lower illumination unit 67 is also provided above the mirror 66a. Based on the results of the third camera 66, it is possible to automatically or by visual inspection by an inspector to confirm whether or not drug remains on the inner wall surface and inside the inner space of the cylindrical portion 50a.

[0070] Furthermore, the printing mechanism having the ink ribbon cassette 401 prints the patient's name, morning, noon, and evening before the medication is packaged, and even if an error is detected during medication identification processing or automatic inspection, it is not possible to print that error information on the corresponding packaged portion of the medication. Therefore, a post-printing unit may be provided to print error information, such as a mark indicating a defect or a number indicating the number of missing medications, on the packaged portion of the medication after it has passed through the heater rollers 45d and 45e.

[0071] Furthermore, when presenting the print layout on the packaging paper to the user, possible methods include checking the print layout via the monitor of the drug packaging device 1, or checking the print layout based on the actual printed packaging paper. For the latter method, it is desirable that the drug supply operation is not involved.

[0072] Figure 13 shows a schematic block diagram of the control system of the drug packaging device 1. The storage unit 80 connected to the controller 8 of the drug packaging device 1 stores a so-called master table (database of drugs, etc.), prescription information for each patient, and image data captured by the first, second, and third cameras 61, 62, and 66, and the first, second, and third residue detection cameras 601, 602, and 603. In addition, the lighting and shooting timing of the first, second, and third cameras 61, 62, and 66, and the first, second, and third residue detection cameras 601, 602, and 603 are controlled by the controller 8.

[0073] The image output unit 81 of the controller 8 processes images captured by the first to third cameras 61, 62, 66, etc., and stores them in the storage unit 80. The image output unit 81 can also read the captured images from the storage unit 80 and display them on the monitor as inspection support images. The inspector can inspect the drugs in the storage unit 50 by looking at the inspection support images displayed on the monitor.

[0074] The above-mentioned inspection support images may, for example, be displayed on the monitor by processing by the controller 8, associating the upper image of the drug taken by the first camera 61 and the lower image of the drug taken by the second camera 62 as front and back images for each drug that is presumed to be the same drug. The association of front and back images is performed by arranging the images side by side or vertically. Furthermore, whether or not they are the same drug can be estimated from the correspondence between the drug positions in the upper and lower images taken by the first and third shooting processes within the specified time period. In addition, the association of front and back images may be performed for all of the multiple images, or for specific images among the multiple images. The specific image taken may be an image in which the drug check unit 82 was able to recognize markings, etc. Figure 14 shows an example of an inspection support image. In this image, patient information, information on the drug administered to the patient (drug name and drug image), and front and back images of each drug are displayed, which are extracted from the individual drug image portion of the overall image of the storage unit taken for each individual package.

[0075] Furthermore, the above inspection support image may include, in addition to the image of the drug in the storage unit 50, an image of reference images of the drug to be packaged from reference images of drugs stored in the memory unit 80 in advance. The above reference images may be images taken in the shooting environment of the drug packaging device 1, images taken in the drug room where the drug packaging device 1 is installed, or images provided by the drug manufacturer.

[0076] The drug check unit 82 of the controller 8 determines the number of drugs present in the storage unit 50 located at the drug imaging position P6 based on the image captured by the first camera 61. Since the first camera 61 captures the shadows of the drugs due to backlighting, the drug check unit 82 counts, for example, the number of dark areas in the captured image that are larger than a predetermined size (area), and outputs this number of areas as the number of drugs. The dark areas include not only circular areas but also annular areas. The predetermined size can be made different for each drug based on drug size data stored in the storage unit 80.

[0077] Furthermore, the drug checking unit 82, as a judgment unit, can identify a drug by recognizing markings such as markings, which are drug information of the drug, in the captured images taken in the first and third imaging processes. In addition, the drug checking unit 82 can automatically determine whether or not a drug specified in the prescription information (packaging data) exists in the storage unit 50 by determining whether the identified drug matches the markings of the drug indicated in the prescription information (packaging data) in the storage unit 80 (drug master table).

[0078] Furthermore, the drug checking unit 82, as a judgment unit, judges other drug information that is a characteristic of each drug obtained by the above-mentioned photography (area (size) of the drug in a plan view, shape of the drug in a plan view, and all or part of the surface color of the drug). In addition, the drug checking unit 82 can also automatically determine whether or not a drug specified in the prescription information (packaging data) exists in the storage unit 50 by judging the degree of agreement between the above drug information and the characteristic data of each drug indicated in the prescription information (packaging data) in the storage unit 80 (drug master table) (area (size) of the drug in a plan view, shape of the drug in a plan view, and all or part of the surface color of the drug).

[0079] Furthermore, the drug checking unit 82 can also automatically determine whether or not a drug specified in the prescription information (packaging data) exists in the storage unit 50 by comparing the captured drug image (drug information) with the reference image of each drug (characteristic data of each drug) stored in the storage unit 80 in advance and determining the degree of agreement through image matching. The reference image (for image matching) used in the drug checking unit 82 does not have to be the same as the reference image (for visual confirmation) in the inspection support image described above.

[0080] The adhesion determination unit 83 of the controller 8 determines the adhesion of the drug to the inner wall of the drug packaging introduction member 7 and the adhesion of the drug to the inner wall of the cylindrical portion 50a of the storage section 50, based on images taken by the first, second, and third residual detection cameras 601, 602, and 603, and the image taken by the third camera 66. For example, the adhesion determination unit 83 determines the adhesion of the drug to the inner wall of the cylindrical portion 50a by comparing an image taken by the third camera 66 of the cylindrical portion 50a of the storage section 50 located at the residual drug confirmation position P8 with a basic image taken when no drug is adhering to the inner wall surface.

[0081] The basic image described above is, for example, an image taken immediately before the first packaging process of the day, and this image is stored in the storage unit 80. As an example of drug adhesion determination, for example, if the number of pixels in the image sensor whose brightness values ​​match each other or are within a predetermined range is less than a predetermined proportion of the total number of pixels, it is determined that the drug is adhering to the inner wall of the cylindrical portion 50a of the storage unit 50. The controller 8 can output an alert when it determines that the drug is adhering to the inner wall of the cylindrical portion 50a of the storage unit 50. In this case, the drug packaging process may be continued or interrupted. The controller 8 may also store the image taken when it is determined that the drug is adhering to the inner wall of the cylindrical portion 50a of the storage unit 50 in the storage unit 80.

[0082] The timing control unit 84 of the controller 8 controls the shooting timing of the first, second and third cameras 61, 62, and 66, the first, second and third residual detection cameras 601, 602, and 603, the lighting timing of the upper illumination unit 63, the lower illumination unit 64, and the surface light-emitting member 65, etc., in response to the rotational movement of the rotating disc 5010 of the drug receiving plate 501. In this embodiment, each time the rotating disc 5010 of the drug receiving plate 501 rotates intermittently by 45 degrees, still images are simultaneously taken at the drug shooting position P6 (first and second cameras 61 and 62), the drug discharge position P7 (first, second and third residual detection cameras 601, 602, and 603), and the remaining drug confirmation position P8 (third camera 66). The timing control unit 84 also performs shooting in the order of, for example, the first shooting process, the second shooting process, and the third shooting process. Of course, other shooting sequences are possible. Furthermore, the timing control unit 84 can also control the timing of the illumination of the upper lighting unit 63 and the lower lighting unit 64, as well as the timing of the light intensity switching, during the above shooting process.

[0083] The following are examples of the timing for photographing the remaining medication confirmation position P8 with the third camera 66 described above: 1. Photograph the remaining medication confirmation position P8 when the storage unit 50 moves to the drug discharge position P7. 2. Photograph the remaining medication confirmation position P8 after the storage unit 50 has moved to the drug discharge position P7 (e.g., after a predetermined time (1 second) after the movement).

[0084] Furthermore, it is also possible to place the third camera 66 described above at the drug discharge position P7 to check for remaining drug. In this case, the image is taken after the storage unit 50 has moved to the drug discharge position P7 (e.g., after a predetermined time (1 second) after it has moved).

[0085] The drive control unit 85 of the controller 8 controls the motor 503. This control includes not only the intermittent 45-degree rotation of the rotating disc 5010 of the drug receiving disc 501, but also the control to eliminate overlapping of the drugs within the storage unit 50 by rotating the rotating disc 5010 in forward and reverse directions at a speed faster than the speed of this 45-degree rotation.

[0086] With the above configuration, the first imaging process allows for imaging of markings on drug products with the marked side facing upwards, and the third imaging process allows for imaging of markings on drug products with the marked side facing downwards. This makes it possible to identify drug products in the storage unit based on the images obtained from the first and third imaging processes, even for drugs with markings on only one side. Furthermore, it becomes possible to determine the number of drug products from the shadow image of the drug products obtained from the second imaging process. In other words, the imaging location for capturing the markings on the drug products and the imaging location for determining the number of drug products can be the same, allowing for rapid drug imaging. Note that an embodiment is also possible in which only one of the first or third imaging processes is performed.

[0087] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the timing control unit 84 performs each imaging process multiple times on the drug (same subject) in a specific storage unit 50. This imaging process does not mean performing the first imaging process and the third imaging process once each (a total of two times), but rather performing the first imaging process and the third imaging process multiple times each. Here, if imaging is performed while waiting for the drug, which is in a vibrating or rolling state, to come to a stop, the time required to image the drug will be longer. As described above, when imaging is performed multiple times on the same subject within a certain period of time, multiple images are obtained, so it becomes more likely to obtain an image in which the engraved or printed surface of the drug is facing the camera, thereby improving the recognition rate of the engraving, etc.

[0088] Furthermore, in this embodiment, by performing the first, second, and third imaging processes in one location (drug imaging position P6), the storage unit 50 does not move with each imaging, and the drug does not vibrate or roll, which has the advantage of reducing blur in the captured drug image. In addition, by performing the first, second, and third imaging processes in one location in this way, it is only necessary to wait once for the vibration and rolling of the drug to subside, so even when imaging is performed after waiting for the vibration and rolling of the drug to subside, it is possible to shorten the imaging processing time.

[0089] By providing the third camera 66 described above, it becomes possible to detect drugs adhering to the inner wall surface of the cylindrical portion 50a, and to inform the user that the packaged drugs may not match the prescription information (packaging data).

[0090] As shown in Figure 11, a cleaning member 55 for cleaning the drug receiving bottom 5012 is provided on the bottom side of the rotating disc portion 5010, in a location that does not form the storage portion 50. This cleaning member 55 prevents drug powder (drug debris) on the drug receiving bottom 5012 from being packaged together with the drug. The cleaning member 55 comprises, for example, a scraper 55a and a support portion 55b that supports the scraper 55a. The support portion 55b may be movably supported on the rotating disc portion 5010 so that the scraper 55a can come into contact with and separate from the drug receiving bottom 5012. Then, as the rotating disc 5010 rotates around the shaft 504 with the scraper 55a in contact with the drug receiving bottom 5012, the drug powder on the drug receiving bottom 5012 is scraped by the scraper 55a into the receiving recess 5012b and the drug powder collection groove 5012c, which will be described later.

[0091] The shaft 504 has a flange portion at its lower end, which is fixed to the lower plate portion 52. A bearing is fitted to the outer circumference of the shaft 504, and a square projection 504a is rotatably supported on the outer circumference of this bearing (see Figure 5). In the center of the drug receiving plate portion 501, as shown in Figure 7, a roughly cylindrical central square opening 501b is formed, which has a square opening into which the square projection 504a fits, allowing the drug receiving plate portion 501 to be detachably attached to the square projection 504a.

[0092] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 15, the central square opening 501b is connected and fixed to a cylindrical upright portion 501c, which is located spaced apart from the outer circumference of the central square opening 501b, by a plurality of connecting ribs 501f. The cylindrical upright portion 501c is a member located on the central side of the rotating disc portion 5010 and fixed to the rotating disc portion 5010. In the rotating disc portion 5010, a plurality of guide columns 501g are formed within an annular gap formed between the outer circumference of the central square opening 501b and the cylindrical upright portion 501c, projecting in the axial direction of the shaft 504.

[0093] A cleaning switching mechanism 501d (see Figure 17) is inserted into the annular gap described above. The cleaning switching mechanism 501d has multiple holes into which it is inserted into the guide column 501g. These holes allow it to move linearly in the axial direction of the shaft 504 and to rotate around the shaft 504 together with the turntable 5010. The cleaning switching mechanism 501d has a notch 501k (see Figure 17) through which the connecting rib 501f passes. Below the cleaning switching mechanism 501d is the support plate 501h of the turntable 5010. The support plate 501h is located on the central side of the turntable 5010 and is fixed to the turntable 5010. The support plate 501h is shown by dashed lines in Figures 17 and 18.

[0094] As shown in Figure 17, a coil spring 501j is positioned between the cleaning switching mechanism 501d and the support plate 501h, and this coil spring 501j biases the cleaning switching mechanism 501d upward. When cleaning the powder, the cleaning switching mechanism 501d is moved downward. The downward movement of the cleaning switching mechanism 501d is performed by a motor 5060. The motor 5060 and the support mechanism 5061 that supports it are attached to the upper plate 51.

[0095] Multiple guide columns 5061a are erected in the axial direction of the shaft 504 in the support mechanism 5061. Pressing members 5061b, which are guided vertically by the guide columns 5061a, are engaged with these guide columns 5061a. A feed screw 5061c is screwed into a screw hole formed in the center of the pressing member 5061b. When the feed screw 5061c is driven by the motor 5060, the pressing member 5061b moves up and down. Multiple wheel portions 5061d are attached to the lower surface of the pressing member 5061b, which contact the upper surface of the cleaning switching operation unit 501d. That is, even when the cleaning switching operation unit 501d is pressed down by the pressing member 5061b, the cleaning switching operation unit 501d (rotating disc portion 5010) can rotate smoothly around the axis of the shaft 504 because it is in contact with the pressing member 5061b via the wheel portions 5061d. The motor 5060 may be installed at a position other than the center of the support mechanism 5061.

[0096] A rack portion 551, with teeth formed in the axial direction of the shaft 504, is fixed to the side of the cleaning switching operation unit 501d. As shown in Figure 16, a notch is formed in the cylindrical rising portion 501c to expose the rack portion 551.

[0097] The cleaning member 55 has a shaft portion 553. This shaft portion 553 is rotatably supported by a bearing portion 554 provided on the support portion 55b. A gear portion 552 that meshes with a rack portion 551 is fixed to one end of the shaft portion 553. When the cleaning switching operation unit 501d is lowered by the drive of the motor 5060 during cleaning, the rack portion 551 is lowered, the gear portion 552 rotates, and the shaft portion 553 rotates, as shown in Figure 18. The scraper 55a fixed to the shaft portion 553 rises up as the shaft portion 553 rotates, and the edge of the scraper 55a comes into contact with the chemical receiving bottom portion 5012. After cleaning is complete, the motor 5060 is reversed to perform the reverse operation of the above operation.

[0098] In other words, in this embodiment, the drug packaging device 1 comprises a drug supply unit (drug storage and dispensing unit 11) for supplying various drugs, a drug packaging unit 45 for packaging the drugs supplied from the drug supply unit with packaging paper S, a storage unit 50 for temporarily storing the drugs supplied from the drug supply unit upstream of the drug packaging unit 45, and a cleaning member 55 provided in the drug receiving plate 501 as a cleaning device for cleaning the drug powder on the drug receiving bottom 5012. The drug packaging device 1 may also be configured to include the cleaning device without a camera unit 60.

[0099] Furthermore, in the above-described cleaning device, it may be possible to switch between a state in which the edge of the cleaning member 55 (scraper 55a) is raised and a state in which it is in contact with the chemical receiving bottom 5012.

[0100] As an example of the above switching, the drug packaging device 1 includes a cleaning switching operation unit 501d that rotates together with the rotating disc 5010 and is linearly movable in the axial direction of the shaft 504 that rotates and supports the rotating disc 5010, and which switches between a state in which the cleaning member 55 is in contact with the drug receiving bottom 5012 and a state in which it is not in contact by the linear movement of the shaft 504 in the axial direction, and a drive unit (motor 5060 and support mechanism 5061, etc.) that moves the cleaning switching operation unit 501d in the axial direction of the shaft 504.

[0101] Furthermore, in the above-described cleaning device, the chemical receiving bottom portion 5012 may be rotatable, as will be described later.

[0102] If the cleaning member 55 (scraper 55a) is integrated with the rotating disc portion 5010, the cleaning member 55 (scraper 55a) will also come off when the rotating disc portion 5010 is removed from the drug packaging device 1, making it easier to clean the drug receiving bottom portion 5012 and the lower plate portion 52.

[0103] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a cleaning switching operation unit 501d for switching the cleaning operation of the cleaning member 55 is attached to the rotating plate unit 5010, and a motor 5060 and support mechanism 5061 for operating the cleaning switching operation unit 501d are attached to the upper plate unit 51. In other words, since the drug receiving plate unit 501 of the drug storage unit 5 itself does not have a drive system, it becomes easy to remove the drug receiving plate unit 501 from the drug dispensing device 1. Note that the removal of the drug receiving plate unit 501 may be performed as a whole, including the drug receiving bottom 5012, or it may be performed on the component part that does not include the drug receiving bottom 5012.

[0104] Furthermore, the provision of the drug receiving bottom portion 5012 makes it less likely for drug powder to adhere to the lower plate portion 52. In addition, the drug receiving bottom portion 5012 can be removed from the lower plate portion 52 and washed. In the structure shown in Figure 4, etc., the user can grasp the handle 505 and raise the upper plate portion 51 (including the motor 5060, support mechanism 5061, etc.) to expose the upper surface of the drug receiving plate portion 501, and in this state the drug receiving plate portion 501 can be detached from the shaft 504 (square protrusion 504a).

[0105] The scraper 55a (shaft portion 553) extends from the outer circumference of the rotating disc portion 5010 to the center of the rotating disc portion 5010. The end portion of the scraper 55a located on the center side is eccentrically positioned so as to lag behind the outer circumference end in the forward rotation direction of the rotating disc portion 5010 from the center of the rotating disc portion 5010. This allows the drug powder scraped from the drug receiving bottom portion 5012 to be moved towards the center of the drug receiving bottom portion 5012 by the rotation of the rotating disc portion 5010.

[0106] With the configuration including the cleaning member 55 described above, the drug powder is removed from the drug receiving bottom 5012 when the rotating disc 5010 rotates. Therefore, the user does not have to clean the drug receiving bottom 5012. Furthermore, without such effort, problems such as inadequate illumination due to drug powder in the storage section 50 located at the drug imaging position P6, and mistaking clumps of drug powder for a single drug can be solved.

[0107] Furthermore, the cleaning of the drug powder by the cleaning member 55 may be performed automatically each time the recipient of the prescription changes. However, it is not limited to this, and for example, the drug powder cleaning may be performed automatically each time the packaging process for a set number of packages (e.g., 10 packages) is completed. In addition, the drug powder cleaning may be performed when dirt at the bottom of the storage unit 50 located at the drug imaging position P6 is detected by the sensor or camera's captured image, or when the user presses the cleaning switch. If it is determined that cleaning is necessary, the supply of drug to the storage unit 50 may be stopped, and all drug present in the storage unit 50 at that time may be packaged. However, if the prescribed drug for morning, noon, and evening consists of only one type (which can be determined from the prescription information), there is no problem even if the drug and its powder are packaged together, so the determination of whether cleaning is necessary may not be made.

[0108] Alternatively, the drug powder collected by the cleaning member 55 may be stored in the receiving recess 5012b (see Figure 10) of the drug receiving bottom 5012. Or, the cleaning member 55 may be provided to drop the powder from the packaging opening 5012a. The drug powder that falls from the packaging opening 5012a may be packaged in the packaging paper S located below the packaging opening 5012a. That is, the drug powder in the drug receiving bottom 5012 may be collected by the cleaning member 55 and packaged in the packaging paper S. For example, after sealing the packaging paper from which the drug has been dropped from the packaging opening 5012a and completing the drug packaging, the unpackaged portion of the packaging paper is moved below the packaging opening 5012a. Then, the cleaning member 55 is moved toward the packaging opening 5012a, and the drug powder collected by the cleaning member 55 falls from the packaging opening 5012a. This prevents the drug and drug powder from being packaged together. Furthermore, if the individual packaging paper portion containing the medicine powder collected by the cleaning member 55 is present in the continuous packaging band, a packaging paper cutter (not shown) may be operated to separate the individual packaging paper portion of the medicine powder from the continuous packaging band. In this case, it is preferable to print information that identifies the prescription on the leading individual packaging paper portion of the subsequent continuous packaging band.

[0109] The timing for starting the cleaning of the cleaning member 55 is such that the timing of dropping the drug from the packaging opening 5012a and the timing of removing the drug powder with the cleaning member 55 are not simultaneous. For example, the timing for starting the cleaning of the cleaning member 55 is after the drug has been discharged from all the storage sections 50 that store the drug, in other words, after all the storage sections 50 that store the drug have been moved to the drug discharge position P7.

[0110] Alternatively, instead of the surface-emitting member 65, a dimming member 68 may be provided on the underside of the bottom surface of the storage unit 50 and above the lower illumination unit 64, as shown in Figure 3(B). This dimming member 68 can switch between a transparent state and a semi-transparent state. The first and third imaging processes are performed when the dimming member 68 is in a transparent state, and the second imaging process is performed when the dimming member 68 is in a semi-transparent state and the lower illumination unit 64 is lit. As the dimming member 68, a liquid crystal film can be used that becomes transparent when an electric current is passed through it in a milky white state.

[0111] The combinations of the above-mentioned shooting and lighting processes are shown in Table 2 below. [Table 2]

[0112] In addition, the light-adjusting element may be made semi-transparent in the first imaging process described above.

[0113] Furthermore, it is desirable that the upper illumination unit 63 and the lower illumination unit 64 be adjustable in light intensity. If it is possible to determine whether the currently stored drug, as indicated by the prescription information (package data), is marked, the light intensity when photographing the marked drug may be reduced compared to the light intensity for unmarked drugs. Reducing the light intensity when photographing the marked drug can suppress the phenomenon where the shadow of the mark disappears and becomes unrecognizable due to excessive light intensity. Here, light intensity refers to the total amount of light beam passing through a certain surface within a certain time. The above light intensity adjustment involves increasing or decreasing the light beam from the illumination units 63 and 64 to the storage unit 50, and can be done by increasing or decreasing the light beam of individual LEDs by pulse width modulation processing of the applied voltage to the LEDs constituting the illumination units 63 and 64, or by increasing or decreasing the total amount of light beam to the storage unit 50 by increasing or decreasing the number of lit LEDs.

[0114] Furthermore, in the first, second, and third imaging processes described above, simultaneous imaging may be performed for any combination of imaging that can be executed simultaneously. Also, the light intensity adjustment of the illumination may consist of two stages: a first light intensity and a second light intensity that is less than the first light intensity, and the drug imaging may be performed sequentially, for example, as follows: first imaging process at the first light intensity → first imaging process at the second light intensity → second imaging process → third imaging process at the first light intensity → third imaging process at the second light intensity. The shutter speed of the first and second cameras when imaging the imprinted drug may be faster than the shutter speed for the non-imprinted drug. By adjusting the shutter speed in this way, similar to the light intensity adjustment described above, it is possible to suppress the phenomenon in which the shadow of the imprint disappears and becomes unrecognizable.

[0115] In the above embodiment, the first imaging process, the second imaging process, and the third imaging process were performed at one drug imaging position P6. However, the embodiment is not limited to this, and the first imaging process, the second imaging process, and the third imaging process may be performed at multiple drug imaging positions.

[0116] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the controller 8 processes the multiple drugs in one package (same package) to be stored together in one storage unit 50 and the above imaging is performed, but this is not limited to this. Instead of the controller 8 processing the multiple drugs in one package to be stored together in one storage unit 50, the multiple drugs in one package may be stored separately in different storage units 50, either spatially or temporally, and the above imaging may be performed on the drugs stored in this way (the smaller amount of drugs). The shared storage condition, which indicates whether or not multiple drugs in the same package should be stored separately, is stored in the sorting information unit 88 of the controller 8. Based on the shared storage condition stored in the sorting information unit 88, if the controller 8 determines that multiple drugs in the same package should be stored separately (the controller 8 operates as a sorting determination unit), it stores the multiple drugs in the same package separately in multiple storage units 50 and performs drug imaging processing and drug dispensing processing, etc.

[0117] For example, in a configuration where multiple doses of one package of medication are distributed to storage units 50 located in spatially separate locations, the controller 8 distributes and stores multiple doses of one package of medication in multiple (e.g., two) storage units 50, and performs the above-mentioned imaging at one or more medication imaging locations. After the multiple storage units 50 pass the medication discharge location P7 (packaging location), the medication is packaged in individual packaging paper, so that multiple doses of the same package are ultimately packaged together.

[0118] For example, if the controller 8 has multiple drugs A, B, C, and D in the same package, it operates cassette a containing drug A and cassette b containing drug B to store drugs A and B in one storage unit 50, and then operates cassette c containing drug C and cassette d containing drug D to store drugs C and D in the next storage unit 50. Then, at the drug imaging position P6, the controller 8 sequentially performs imaging of the first storage unit 50 and the next storage unit 50.

[0119] In an configuration where multiple doses of one package of medication are distributed to different storage units 50 at different times, the controller 8 stores multiple doses of one package of medication in one storage unit 50 at different times, and performs the medication imaging at the medication imaging position P6 at different times. In this case, as the rotating disc unit 5010 rotates multiple times, the single storage unit 50 passes the medication discharge position P7 (packaging position) multiple times, and all of the multiple doses of one package of medication are dropped into the dispensing paper while it is stopped moving.

[0120] In this way, when multiple doses of a single drug are stored in spatially or temporally separate storage units 50 and the drugs within the storage units 50 are photographed, it becomes possible to photograph the drugs appropriately. That is, when many drugs are present in one storage unit 50, overlapping and close contact between drugs are likely to occur, often resulting in poor image quality. In contrast, when drugs are stored and photographed in the above-mentioned manner, the probability of overlapping and close contact between drugs is reduced, making it possible to photograph the drugs appropriately. Furthermore, when inspectors perform visual inspection based on the drug images, the inspection becomes easier because there are fewer drugs in the image.

[0121] Furthermore, in a system where multiple medications for a single dose are divided into two or more packages and dispensed, even if multiple medications are present in a single package, the multiple medications in each package may be individually stored and photographed as described above. In other words, regardless of whether one package contains medication for a single dose or not, multiple medications in the same package are individually stored and photographed as described above.

[0122] Here, the drug imaging device 6 can also be defined as a device comprising a drug imaging unit and a drug sorting unit for the above-mentioned portion storage. The drug imaging unit is, for example, an imaging unit 60 that images the drugs in the storage unit 50. The drug sorting unit consists of, for example, a drug storage unit 5 and a controller 8 that portion storage of multiple drugs packaged together into the storage unit 50.

[0123] The drug distribution in the above-mentioned distributed storage imaging can also be performed as follows: (1) The drug distribution is performed so that the number of drugs stored in the same storage unit 50 does not exceed a set number (e.g., 2). (2) Drug distribution is performed so that drugs registered as similar to each other in the drug master table are not stored in the same storage unit 50 (similar drugs are imaged separately). For example, one drug A is stored in one storage unit 50, and one similar drug A' (A≒A') is stored in another storage unit 50. If drug B (B≠A, B≠A') is included, drug B may be stored together with drug A or drug A' (drug A and drug A' are imaged separately). Note that information registered as similar to each other in the drug master table is not necessarily required. (3) Drugs may be stored separately in the same storage unit 50 so as to separate drugs from drugs of the same type, and drugs of the same type may be stored separately in the same storage unit 50 so as to separate drugs of the same type from drugs of other types. For example, two drugs A may be stored in one storage unit 50 and drug B (A≠B) may be stored in another storage unit 50. (4) Drugs may be stored separately in the storage units 50 so as to separate drugs according to the difference in the source of supply. For example, drugs supplied by hand and drugs supplied by cassette may be stored separately in separate storage units 50. Also, for example, drugs supplied by cassette and drugs supplied by universal cassette may be stored separately in separate storage units 50. (5) Drugs may be stored separately so as not to exceed the number of drugs that can be checked in one check, in the same storage unit 50. This number increases if the bottom area of ​​the storage section 50 is large, and decreases if it is small. Alternatively, instead of the number of drugs, the storage may be divided and stored if the sum of the area of ​​the plan view (projected area) of each drug is greater than a threshold. (6) When dispensing drugs that include drugs for which characteristic data (including reference images) is not registered in the memory section 80 (drug master table), the unregistered drugs are divided and stored in a storage section 50 separate from the storage section 50 for other drugs.Furthermore, the stored unregistered drugs may be photographed and the images registered in the drug master table as reference images. Alternatively, after registering a drug in the drug master table, the drug may be treated as a registered drug, and no separate storage of unregistered drugs may be performed. (7) When dispensing drugs that include drugs that are registered as high-risk drugs or other drugs requiring separate storage in the storage unit 80 (drug master table), the high-risk drugs shall be stored separately in a storage unit 50 separate from the storage unit 50 that holds other drugs.

[0124] The distribution storage conditions (2) to (7) above, which indicate whether or not to perform distribution storage of drugs based on the above-mentioned set number and the presence or absence of similar drugs, and the set number above (1) are stored in the sorting information unit 88 of the controller 8. In addition, information regarding the presence or absence of similar drugs and the type of drug of such similar drugs, which are used as conditions for execution, are stored in advance in the storage unit 80 (drug master table). The drug master table registers information regarding the mark, and either or both of the reference image and characteristic data (size, shape, color) for each drug, and furthermore, as described above, information regarding the presence or absence of similar drugs and the type of such similar drugs is registered. As criteria for registering a drug as a similar drug in the drug master table, the area (size) of the drug in plan view, the shape of the drug in plan view, the surface color of the drug, etc., can be used. Similar drugs include drugs that have been determined by human judgment as similar drugs, as well as drugs that have been mechanically selected by a similarity judgment algorithm based on predetermined similarity criteria. In addition, whether or not the same type of drug exists in one package is determined based on prescription information (package data). Furthermore, the controller 8 can identify which chemicals are supplied by hand and which are supplied by cassette, based on the chemical content information for each cassette and the usage setting information for the hand-dispensing unit 13.

[0125] An example of the shared storage process based on the above shared storage conditions is shown. Controller 8 functions as a sorting determination unit using the information in the sorting information unit 88. Controller 8 (drug packaging device) performs the dispensing process based on the prescription. If, among the drugs packaged in the same pack, at least two drugs have similar characteristics (see (2) above), If different types of drugs are included in the same package (see (3) above), If the drugs to be packaged in the same package include drugs supplied to the storage unit 50 via manual drug dispensing by a person and drugs supplied via drug cassettes (see (4) above), If the drugs to be packaged in the same package include drugs for which characteristic data (including reference images) is not registered in the memory unit 80 (see (6) above) If it is determined that at least one of the following cases or a combination of several cases applies, the shared storage will be performed.

[0126] Furthermore, for example, the controller 8 (drug packaging device) takes a photograph of the unregistered drug stored in the storage unit 50 and registers the image as a reference image in the drug master table (see (6) above). After registering the drug in the drug master table, the drug is treated as a registered drug, and no separate storage is performed for unregistered drugs (see (6) above).

[0127] Furthermore, for example, the drug packaging device 1 may include a drug supply unit (drug storage and dispensing unit 11) that supplies various drugs, a drug packaging unit 45 that packages the drugs supplied from the drug supply unit using packaging paper S, a storage unit 50 that temporarily stores the drugs supplied from the drug supply unit upstream of the drug packaging unit 45, a shooting unit 60 (the number of cameras is not limited) that photographs the inside of the storage unit 50, and a controller 8 that, if the characteristic data (including reference images) of the drugs specified by the prescription information is not stored in the storage unit 80, creates characteristic data of the drugs based on the image captured by the shooting unit 60 for the drugs supplied in the first package, and counts the number of drugs for the second package and subsequent packages by referring to this characteristic data.

[0128] In this embodiment, the drug is dispensed as follows. (α) If the medication to be dispensed according to the prescription is contained in a cassette, it will be dispensed from that cassette. (β) If the medication to be dispensed according to the prescription is not contained in the cassette, and the medication can be dispensed from the universal cassette, it will be dispensed from the universal cassette. The condition that the medication can be dispensed from the universal cassette is that the medication is compatible with the universal cassette and the universal cassette is not set to a mode for dispensing other medications. (γ) If the above-mentioned drug cannot be dispensed from the universal cassette, the drug will be dispensed from the manual dispensing unit 13.

[0129] Here, assuming that the five drugs A, B, C, D, and E shown in the packaging data are divided and stored in (A, B, C) and (D, E), the automatic drug identification process using captured images of the three drugs A, B, and C in one storage unit 50 can be considered as follows. That is, for one storage unit 50, three comparison processes are performed by comparing any one of the three drug image portions in the captured image with the characteristics of each drug A, B, and C (drug size, matching drug image, etc.), then two comparison processes are performed by comparing the next arbitrary drug image portion with the characteristics of the remaining drugs, and finally one comparison process is performed by comparing the last drug image portion with the characteristics of the last drug (a total of six comparisons). Similarly, even when distributing and storing three drugs, A, B, and C, from the five drugs A, B, C, D, and E indicated in the packaging data, one drug each into three storage units 50, it is conceivable to perform a total of six comparison processes without narrowing down the matching targets, as described above. These can be described as comparison processes (automatic drug identification processes) performed without narrowing down the matching targets for the drugs stored in the storage units 50. However, in the above case, drugs A, B, and C indicated in the packaging data are not necessarily stored, and there is a risk that drug CC may be stored instead of drug C due to a malfunction.

[0130] In the above-described shared storage imaging, by using drug sorting information that shows the correspondence between each storage unit 50 and the supplier of the drug dispensed to each storage unit 50 (i.e., the drug name), it is possible to narrow down the matching target for the drug in the storage unit 50 and streamline the automatic drug identification process. For example, suppose the content of the sorting information for the four drugs is "store one drug from drug cassette No. 15 and one drug from drug cassette No. 18 in the storage unit at the first drug receiving position P1, and after rotating the turntable unit 5010 forward by 45 degrees, store one drug from drug cassette No. 19 and one drug from drug cassette No. 20 in the storage unit at the first drug receiving position P1." In this case, the position of the storage unit 50 can be identified by the amount of rotation of the turntable unit 5010, so the identified storage unit 50 can be linked to the drug name of drug cassette No. 15 and the drug name of drug cassette No. 18. Then, the storage unit 50 reaches the drug imaging position P6, where the drug image (drug information) is captured. By linking this image with the drug name of drug cassette 15 and the drug name of drug cassette 18 (including reference images), the matching target is narrowed down.

[0131] Here, for example, even if six drugs are stored three in each of two storage units 50, if the drug sorting information is not stored, it is not possible to narrow down the matching targets for the drugs in the storage unit 50. As mentioned above, in automatic drug identification, six comparison processes are performed → five → four → three → two → one, resulting in a total of 21 comparison processes. In contrast, if six drugs are stored three in each of two storage units 50, and the drug sorting information is stored, the matching targets for the drugs in the storage unit 50 are narrowed down, and six comparison processes are performed for the three drugs in each storage unit 50, resulting in a total of only 12 comparison processes.

[0132] In other words, in a configuration that performs automatic drug identification processing based on drug images obtained by photographing drugs in the storage unit 50, if the configuration is such that the above-mentioned drug sorting information is used to perform the above-mentioned drug sorting information, and the above-mentioned drug sorting information is used to select candidate drug characteristic data (reference image) to be compared with the photographed drug image (drug information), then it is possible to narrow down the target of matching drugs in the storage unit 50 and make the automatic drug identification processing more efficient. With such a configuration, the advantages of reducing overlap of drugs due to a decrease in the number of drugs in the storage unit 50 and making the automatic drug identification processing more efficient can be obtained.

[0133] Furthermore, if the six drugs are stored one by one using six storage units 50, and the drug sorting information is stored and used, the process can be completed with six comparison processes, each comparing the characteristics of one drug image portion in the captured image within each storage unit 50 on a one-to-one basis with the drug sorting information.

[0134] Furthermore, even in the embodiment in which the six drugs described above are stored one by one, the number of drugs in the storage unit 50 can be confirmed by backlighting photography, making it possible to detect errors in supplying multiple drugs to the storage unit 50.

[0135] On the other hand, if the drugs are stored one by one, the number of times the storage unit 50 is photographed increases, and the processing time required for dispensing increases. For example, in the case of (1) above, if the number of drugs stored at the same time is, for example, 2, the number of times the 3 drugs A, B, and C are photographed can be reduced to 2. Even if the number of drugs packaged together is 4, the number of times the drugs are photographed will be 2. If the number of drugs packaged together is 5, the number of times the drugs are photographed will be 3. In this way the number of times the drugs are photographed increases, but by using the drug sorting information described above, it is possible to reduce the number of comparison processes in the automatic drug identification process.

[0136] In addition, in the cases of (2) to (4) above, the drug sorting information is associated with the images of the separately stored drugs.

[0137] The controller 8 dispenses the medication corresponding to one administration period into multiple storage units 50 according to specific criteria, as follows: Specific criteria are (α)1 When two of the medications that are taken at the appropriate time are related as similar drugs. (β) When different types of drugs are included (each type of drug is discharged into the same storage compartment) (γ) When the source for discharging the drug includes the hand-spraying unit 13 and the drug cassette. These are the three points. Furthermore, based on the sorting information described above, the controller 8 identifies candidate reference images to be used for comparison with the drugs contained in the captured images (narrowing down the target for drug matching).

[0138] In the case of (2) above, the drug present in the storage unit 50 is a specific drug supplied from a specific cassette such as the drug storage and dispensing unit 11, and since the information of the drug in the captured image is compared with the information of the specific drug mentioned above, the drug information to be compared is narrowed down. In particular, since the number of matching targets to be compared can be narrowed down to one for similar drugs that are difficult to distinguish from the captured image alone, the advantage is that drug identification can be performed quickly and misidentification is less likely to occur. In other words, with this configuration, the advantages of reducing overlap of drugs by decreasing the number of drugs in the storage unit 50, improving the efficiency of automatic identification processing, and suppressing misidentification of similar drugs can be obtained.

[0139] In the cases of (3) and (4) above, the drugs supplied to the storage unit 50 can be narrowed down to match targets from the perspective of whether the drug type is the same or not, and from the perspective of the source of the drug. Since the information of the drug in the captured image can be compared with the information of the drugs narrowed down as described above, the advantage is that drug identification can be performed quickly and misidentification is unlikely. In other words, this configuration also provides the same advantages as in the case of (2) above.

[0140] Furthermore, in the case of (4) above, if the manually dispensed drug and the cassette-dispensed drug are stored separately in different storage units 50, it becomes possible to make the criteria for automatic inspection of the manually dispensed drug and the criteria for automatic inspection of the cassette-dispensed drug different from each other. For example, the threshold for the degree of agreement when making a positive judgment for the manually dispensed drug is set higher than the threshold for the cassette-dispensed drug. Also, the inspection method may be switched between manually dispensed and cassette-dispensed drugs. For example, for manually dispensed drugs, visual inspection by an inspector of the captured image is performed, while for cassette-dispensed drugs, automatic inspection using identification processing with the captured image is performed, based on experience that there are fewer errors. Furthermore, the information used for automatic inspection of the drug may be different for manually dispensed and cassette-dispensed drugs. For example, for cassette-dispensed drugs, the information used for automatic inspection of the drug may be the color and shape of the drug, while for manually dispensed drugs, the information used for automatic inspection of the drug may be not only the color and shape but also the markings (printing).

[0141] In the above embodiment, the drug powder dropped from the packaging opening 5012a was packaged by the dispensing paper S located below the packaging opening 5012a, but the cleaning method is not limited to this. The cleaning method described below can reduce the amount of dispensing paper S consumed due to drug powder cleaning. Furthermore, when drug powder cleaning is performed in the middle of dispensing long-term prescriptions, it is possible to avoid the creation of dispensing packets containing drug powder in the middle of a continuous dispensing band. For example, in the case of long-term dispensing where the prescribed medications for morning, noon, and evening are all the same type, it is considered that there is no particular problem even if the drug powder generated during the dispensing process is included with the medication, so in such cases, drug powder cleaning may be omitted. Whether or not the prescribed medications for morning, noon, and evening are all the same type can be determined from the prescription information.

[0142] As an example of cleaning drug powder without using the packaging paper S, as shown in Figure 19, a configuration can be considered in which the intermediate section 71 of the drug packaging introduction member 7 is moved laterally relative to the chute section 72, which is located below the intermediate section 71, and the drug powder collection box 74 is positioned where the intermediate section 71 is no longer present. For example, when cleaning the drug powder with the cleaning member 55 after the drug packaging process is completed, the intermediate section 71 is moved laterally, and the drug powder collection box 74 is positioned in its place, and the drug powder dropped from the packaging opening 5012a is collected by the drug powder collection box 74. After the drug powder is collected, the drug powder collection box 74 is moved laterally, and the intermediate section 71 is positioned on the chute section 72.

[0143] The relay unit 71 and the powder collection box 74 may be moved manually or by an actuator such as a motor. As an example, a support member that supports the relay unit 71 and the powder collection box 74 may be supported so as to be rotatable in the horizontal plane by a vertical axis, and a mechanism may be adopted in which the positions of the relay unit 71 and the powder collection box 74 are swapped by this rotation. Alternatively, for example, a gear section (rack section) may be provided on the support member, and the support member may be rotated by a drive gear meshed with this gear section. Furthermore, the powder collection box 74 is removable from the support member, and the accumulated powder can be disposed of in a designated location.

[0144] Furthermore, if the relay section 71 is configured to be manually removable, in order to prevent errors in the orientation of the relay section 71 when it is reattached to the chute section 72, for example, the north pole of the magnet may be positioned at a predetermined position on the relay section 71 and the south pole may be positioned at a position offset by, for example, 180 degrees from the north pole, while the south pole of the magnet may be positioned at the correct mounting position of the relay section 71 on the drug packaging introduction member 7 and similarly positioned at a position offset by 180 degrees from the north pole. In this case, when the relay section 71 is attached in the correct orientation, the magnet on the mounting section side and the magnet on the relay section 71 side attract each other and are positioned, while when the relay section 71 is attached in an incorrect orientation, the magnet on the mounting section side and the magnet on the relay section 71 side repel each other, so it can be seen that the orientation of the relay section 71 is incorrect.

[0145] For example, a slit may be formed on a part of the side surface of the relay section 71, and ions emitted by the ionizer may be introduced into the relay section 71 through the slit to prevent the chemical from adhering to the relay section 71 due to static electricity. In such a configuration, it is necessary that the position of the slit is not opposite to the normal position, and the magnet arrangement structure described above, which allows for confirmation of whether the mounting orientation of the relay section 71 is correct, is useful. In addition to magnets, a structure may be adopted in which a recess or protrusion is provided on the outer circumference of the relay section 71, while a protrusion or recess is provided at the mounting location of the relay section 71, so that the recessed-protrusion fitting cannot be performed if the mounting orientation of the relay section 71 is incorrect, and the recessed-protrusion fitting can only be performed if the mounting orientation of the relay section 71 is correct.

[0146] Another example of cleaning medicine powder without using dispensing paper S is a configuration shown in Figure 20 in which the intermediate section 71 of the medicine packaging introduction member 7 is moved laterally relative to the chute section 72 below the intermediate section 71, and the intermediate section 71 is provided with an openable and closable bottom section 71a. The bottom section 71a is, for example, a disc-shaped member having a diameter greater than or equal to the outer diameter of the cylindrical shape of the intermediate section 71, and is made openable and closable by rotation by the vertical axis section 71b. This opening and closing may be done manually or by an actuator such as a motor.

[0147] For example, when the drug packaging process is completed and the drug powder is to be cleaned by the cleaning member 55, the bottom 71a of the intermediate unit 71 is closed. After cleaning, the intermediate unit 71 is moved laterally. Below the intermediate unit 71, which has been moved laterally, is the drug powder collection box 74. By opening the bottom 71a of the intermediate unit 71, which has been moved laterally, the collected drug powder can be dropped into the drug powder collection box 74. After the drug powder has been disposed of, the intermediate unit 71 is returned to its position on the chute unit 72.

[0148] In the above embodiment, the drug receiving bottom portion 5012 was fixed, but for example, a gear portion may be partially formed on the side surface of the drug receiving bottom portion 5012, and a drive gear driven by a motor or the like may be meshed with this gear portion, thereby making the drug receiving bottom portion 5012 rotatable by a predetermined angle. Making the drug receiving bottom portion 5012 rotatable in this way can also reduce the amount of packaging paper S consumed due to cleaning the drug powder.

[0149] For example, instead of using the remaining medication confirmation position P8 for confirming remaining medication, it may be used as a medication powder collection position P8A for collecting medication powder, as shown in Figure 21, and the medication powder collection box 74 may be positioned below this medication powder collection position P8A. When cleaning the medication powder with the cleaning member 55, the medication receiving bottom 5012 is rotated 45 degrees to position the packaging opening 5012a at the medication powder collection position P8A. By rotating the rotating disc 5010 in this state, the medication powder collected by the cleaning member 55 can be dropped from the packaging opening 5012a into the medication powder collection box 74. Note that the medication powder collection position may be set at a position other than the medication powder collection position P8A. The medication powder collection box 74 is detachably provided on the bottom surface side of the lower plate 52.

[0150] Furthermore, as described above, if the drug receiving bottom 5012 is rotatable, it is advantageous for eliminating overlap of the drug within the storage section 50. In the example of eliminating drug overlap shown earlier, the overlap of the drug within the storage section 50 is eliminated by forward and reverse rotation of the rotating disc 5010 within a predetermined range driven by the motor 503. However, if the rotation range of the rotating disc 5010 is small, the drug located in the center of the storage section 50 may not come into contact with the wall surface of the cylindrical section 50a, and the overlap of the drug may not be eliminated. Therefore, even during the process of eliminating drug overlap, the drug receiving bottom 5012 may be rotated in the opposite direction to the rotation direction of the rotating disc 5010. This increases the relative displacement between the rotating disc 5010 and the cylindrical section 50a, even if the rotation range of the rotating disc 5010 for eliminating overlap is small, so that the wall surface of the cylindrical section 50a can come into contact with the drug located in the center of the storage section 50 and the overlap of the drug can be eliminated.

[0151] Although embodiments of this invention have been described above with reference to the drawings, this invention is not limited to the illustrated embodiments. Various modifications and variations can be made to the illustrated embodiments within the same scope as this invention, or within the equivalent scope.

[0152] (Regarding one aspect of this disclosure) In the conventional device described above, the drug identification process had the drawback of a complex structure and a long processing time because the location for photographing drug markings, etc., and the location for determining the number of drugs were different. Furthermore, in the conventional device described above, the external shape information of drugs was obtained by processing images of drugs taken in non-backlit conditions, making it difficult to accurately identify the external shape information of drugs that are the same color as the background.

[0153] This invention may provide a drug imaging device and a drug packaging device that perform both imaging of drug markings and drug quantity determination in the drug storage section, thereby speeding up drug imaging processing and improving the accuracy of drug quantity determination.

[0154] The drug imaging apparatus of this invention is a drug imaging apparatus comprising an imaging unit for taking still images of drugs, wherein the imaging unit performs an imaging process for imaging drugs in a storage unit where drugs are temporarily stored before packaging in a non-backlit state, and an imaging process for imaging drugs in the storage unit in a backlit state.

[0155] With the above configuration, the imaging process performed in the non-backlit conditions allows for the imaging of markings on the drugs, etc., and identification of the drugs in the storage unit. Furthermore, the shadow images of the drugs obtained by the imaging process performed in the backlit conditions make it easy to count the number of drugs in the storage unit. In other words, since both the imaging of markings on the drugs and the imaging for drug count determination are performed in the drug storage unit, the drug imaging process can be expedited and the accuracy of drug count determination can be improved.

[0156] The above-mentioned imaging unit may perform a first imaging process in which the drug in the storage unit is photographed from one side in a non-backlit state, a second imaging process in which it is photographed in a backlit state, and a third imaging process in which the drug in the storage unit is photographed from the other side in a non-backlit state.

[0157] With the above configuration, the first imaging process allows for the imaging of markings on a drug with the marked side facing upwards, for example, and the third imaging process allows for the imaging of markings on a drug with the marked side facing downwards. This makes it possible to identify drugs in the storage unit based on the images obtained from the first and third imaging processes, even for drugs with markings on only one side. Furthermore, the number of drugs in the storage unit can be easily counted using the shadow image of the drug obtained from the second imaging process.

[0158] The above-mentioned imaging unit may include a first camera for photographing the drug in the storage unit from above, an upper illumination unit for illuminating the drug in the storage unit from above, a second camera for photographing the drug in the storage unit from below, and a lower illumination unit for illuminating the drug in the storage unit from below.

[0159] Furthermore, the imaging unit may be equipped with a surface-emitting member on the underside of the bottom surface of the storage unit that can switch between a surface-emitting state and a transparent state. The first imaging process and the third imaging process may be performed depending on the transparent state of the surface-emitting member, and the second imaging process may be performed depending on the surface-emitting state of the surface-emitting member.

[0160] The above-mentioned imaging unit is equipped with a dimming member on the underside of the bottom surface of the storage unit that can switch between a transparent state and a semi-transparent state. The first imaging process and the third imaging process may be performed depending on the transparent state of the dimming member, and the second imaging process may be performed depending on the semi-transparent state of the dimming member and the illumination of the lower lighting unit.

[0161] The above-mentioned imaging unit may perform each imaging process multiple times on the same subject within a certain period of time. However, if imaging is performed while waiting for the drug, which is in a vibrating or rolling state in the storage unit, to come to a stop, the time required to image the drug will be longer. As described above, if imaging is performed multiple times on the same subject within a certain period of time, multiple images will be obtained, making it more likely to obtain an image in which the engraved or printed surface of the drug is facing the camera, thereby improving the recognition rate of the engraving, etc.

[0162] Furthermore, the drug packaging device of this invention may also include a drug supply unit for supplying various drugs, a drug packaging unit for packaging the drugs supplied from the drug supply unit using packaging paper, a drug imaging device having a plurality of storage units for temporarily storing the drugs supplied from the drug supply unit upstream of the drug packaging unit, and an image output unit for outputting images captured by the drug imaging device.

[0163] With the above configuration, inspectors can visually confirm the drugs in the storage compartment using the images captured by the drug imaging device, thereby enabling them to properly check the drugs during drug packaging.

[0164] Furthermore, the drug packaging device of this invention may also include a drug supply unit for supplying various drugs, a drug packaging unit for packaging the drugs supplied from the drug supply unit with packaging paper, a drug imaging device having a plurality of storage units for temporarily storing the drugs supplied from the drug supply unit upstream of the drug packaging unit, and a determination unit for determining the number of drugs in the storage units and drug information based on images captured by the drug imaging device.

[0165] With the above configuration, the judgment unit can automatically determine the number of drug units in the storage unit and the drug information when dispensing the drugs.

[0166] The above-described drug packaging device may further include a third camera that photographs the inside of the storage section at the point where the drug stored in the storage section is transferred to the drug packaging section. This makes it possible to detect drug adhering to the storage section by photographing with the third camera, and if such drug is found, the user can be notified that the packaged drug may not be as prescribed.

[0167] The above-described drug packaging device includes a drug receiving plate having a rotating plate that is rotationally driven around an axis and has a plurality of openings on the same circumference around the axis, into which drugs are supplied from the drug supply unit; a drug receiving plate having a portion that functions as the bottom of the openings and a packaging opening provided at a specific location in the region in which the openings move due to the rotation of the rotating plate; the plurality of storage units are formed by the openings and the portion that functions as the bottom of the openings; and a cleaning member may be provided on the bottom surface of the rotating plate that does not form the openings, to clean the drug receiving plate by the rotation of the rotating plate.

[0168] According to this, the cleaning component removes the drug powder from the bottom of the drug receptacle, thus eliminating the need for the user to clean the bottom of the drug receptacle. Furthermore, cleaning by the cleaning component resolves issues such as inappropriate lighting caused by drug powder in the storage area and the misidentification of clumps of drug powder as a single drug.

[0169] With this invention, by performing both the photography of drug markings and the photography of drug quantity determination in the drug storage section, the drug photography process can be expedited and the accuracy of drug quantity determination can be improved.

[0170] Furthermore, this specification includes, for example, the following components:

[0171] The drug receiving bottom of a drug packaging device, It is rotated around an axis and is located on the lower side of a rotating disc having multiple openings on the same circumference around the axis, It has a portion that functions as the bottom of the opening, and a packaging opening provided at a specific location in the region where the opening moves due to the rotation of the rotating disc portion, The above-mentioned opening and the above-mentioned portion that functions as the bottom of the opening constitute a plurality of storage sections for temporarily storing the drug before packaging. The drug receiving bottom portion described above has a drug powder collection groove provided in a position inward from its outer edge.

[0172] The above-mentioned drug powder collection groove is a groove into which drug powder on the bottom of the drug receiving tray is scraped by a cleaning member provided in the portion of the bottom surface of the rotating disc that does not form the above-mentioned opening, and which cleans the bottom of the drug receiving tray by the rotation of the rotating disc.

Claims

1. A drug packaging device having a drug supply unit for supplying various drugs, a drug packaging unit for packaging the drugs supplied from the drug supply unit using packaging paper, and a plurality of storage units for temporarily storing the drugs supplied from the drug supply unit upstream of the drug packaging unit, A rotating disc section that is driven to rotate around an axis and has multiple openings on the same circumference around the axis, A drug receiving bottom having a portion that functions as the bottom of the opening and a packaging opening provided at a specific location in the region where the opening moves due to the rotation of the rotating disc portion, It is equipped with a drug receiving tray section having, The above-mentioned opening and the above-mentioned portion that functions as the bottom of the opening constitute the plurality of storage sections. A cleaning member is provided in the portion of the bottom surface of the rotating disc that does not form the opening, which cleans the bottom of the drug receiving portion by the rotation of the rotating disc. A drug dispensing device in which the cleaning member can be switched between a state in which the edge of the cleaning member is raised and a state in which the edge of the cleaning member is in contact with the drug receiving bottom.

2. A drug packaging device having a drug supply unit for supplying various drugs, a drug packaging unit for packaging the drugs supplied from the drug supply unit with packaging paper, and a plurality of storage units for temporarily storing the drugs supplied from the drug supply unit upstream of the drug packaging unit, A rotating disc section that is driven to rotate around an axis and has multiple openings on the same circumference around the axis, A drug receiving bottom having a portion that functions as the bottom of the opening and a packaging opening provided at a specific location in the region where the opening moves due to the rotation of the rotating disc portion, It is equipped with a drug receiving tray section having, The above-mentioned opening and the above-mentioned portion that functions as the bottom of the opening constitute the plurality of storage sections. A cleaning member is provided in the portion of the bottom surface of the rotating disc that does not form the opening, which cleans the bottom of the drug receiving portion by the rotation of the rotating disc. A powder collection box is provided below the bottom of the above-mentioned drug receiving section. The above drug receiving base is rotatable. A drug dispensing device wherein, with the drug receiving bottom rotating to position the packaging opening above the drug powder collection box, the rotation of the rotating disc causes the drug powder collected by the cleaning member to fall out of the packaging opening.

3. The above cleaning member is, It extends from the outer circumference of the rotating disc portion towards the center of the rotating disc portion, The drug packaging device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the end of the cleaning member located on the central side is positioned eccentrically from the center of the rotating disc, lagging behind the outer peripheral end in the forward rotation direction of the rotating disc.

4. A drug dispensing device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising a detection unit for detecting contamination at the bottom of the storage unit based on an image captured by a camera that images the bottom of the storage unit.

5. The drug dispensing device according to claim 4, wherein when the detection unit detects dirt at the bottom of the storage unit, the cleaning member cleans the bottom of the drug receiving unit by rotating the rotating disc unit.

6. The drug packaging device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the drug receiving bottom is detachably attached to the drug packaging device.

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