Drug supply device

Abstract

To provide a medicine supply device capable of improving visibility of medicine and facilitating taking out of the medicine, when taking out the medicine from a case.SOLUTION: On a mounting part 130, a selection case 300a can be mounted which is selected from a plurality of cases 300 in which medicine is stored. The mounting part 130 can be drawn in a cross direction, to a housing. The mounting part 130 is inclined so that a front end of the mounting part 130 is positioned below a rear end of the mounting part 130, in a state of being drawn and positioned at a forefront part.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 10

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

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

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] When the box disposed in the drug picking unit located on the rear side of the tray mounting table opens upward, when taking out the drug from the box, it is necessary to look into the inside of the box from above over the tray mounting table for visual confirmation. The visibility of the drug is poor and it is difficult to take out the drug.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object thereof is to provide a drug supply device that can improve the visibility of drugs and easily take out drugs when taking out drugs from a case. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The drug supply device according to the present invention includes a mounting section. A selection case, chosen from a plurality of cases containing drugs, can be mounted on the mounting section. The mounting section is extendable in the front-rear direction relative to the housing. When the mounting section is extended and positioned as far forward as possible, its front end is inclined to be lower than its rear end.

[0007] In one embodiment of the present invention, the housing has a contact portion that contacts the rear portion of the selection case, which is placed on the mounting portion when it is pulled out and positioned as far forward as possible, from above.

[0008] In one embodiment of the present invention, the mounting portion includes a base portion on which the selection case is mounted and a wall portion attached to the front end of the base portion. A projection is formed on the upper part of the rear surface of the wall portion, which engages with the upper surface of the front end of the selection case.

[0009] In one embodiment of the present invention, the housing is provided with a roller that acts as a pivot point when the mounting portion rotates and tilts while rolling into contact with the base portion as the mounting portion is pulled out. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] According to the present invention, when removing medication from the case, the visibility of the medication is improved, making it easier to remove the medication. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0011] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view of a drug supply device according to one embodiment of the present invention, viewed from above on the front side. [Figure 2] Figure 1 is a front view of the drug supply device. [Figure 3] Figure 1 is a side view of the drug supply device as seen from the right side. [Figure 4] Figure 1 is a rear view of the drug supply device. [Figure 5]This is a perspective view of a drug supply device according to one embodiment of the present invention, viewed from above on the rear side. [Figure 6] This is a perspective view from above on the rear side of a drug supply device according to one embodiment of the present invention, showing the transport unit in a state where it has moved above the mounting section. [Figure 7] This is a top-down perspective view of a case relating to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] This is a top-down perspective view of the case body relating to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] This is a perspective view of the case body of one embodiment of the present invention, seen from below. [Figure 10] This is a perspective view from above on the front side of a drug supply device according to one embodiment of the present invention, showing the device with the mounting section extended. [Figure 11] This is a perspective view of the area around the mounting section of a dispensing table unit according to one embodiment of the present invention, viewed from above on the front side. [Figure 12] This is a perspective view of the area around the mounting section of a dispensing table unit according to one embodiment of the present invention, viewed from above on the rear side. [Figure 13] This is a perspective view of the wall surface of the mounting section according to one embodiment of the present invention, viewed from below on the rear side. [Figure 14] This is a side view of a dispensing table unit according to one embodiment of the present invention, showing the state in which the mounting section is being pulled out. [Figure 15] This is a side view of a dispensing table unit according to one embodiment of the present invention, showing the unit in a pulled-out position. [Figure 16] This is a front view of a transport unit according to one embodiment of the present invention, with the claw portion retracted. [Figure 17] This is a side view of a transport unit according to one embodiment of the present invention, with the claw portion retracted. [Figure 18] This is a perspective view from the front of a transport unit according to one embodiment of the present invention, showing the claw portion in an advanced position. [Figure 19]Perspective view from the side of the state where the claw part of the conveying unit according to an embodiment of the present invention has advanced. [Figure 20] Perspective view showing the state where the conveying unit is located behind the selected case stored in the case rack. [Figure 21] Partial cross-sectional view from the side of the state of FIG. 20. [Figure 22] Partial cross-sectional view from the side of the state where the claw part in the conveying unit located behind the selected case stored in the case rack rotates so as to rise. [Figure 23] Partial cross-sectional view showing the state where the claw part engaged with the inner surface of the engaging part of the selected case is retracted. [Figure 24] Perspective view from the front of the conveying unit in the state where the claw part engaged with the inner surface of the engaging part of the selected case has finished retracting. [Figure 25] Perspective view of the conveying unit of FIG. 24 as viewed from the direction of arrow XXV. [Figure 26] Front view as viewed from the front of the state where the pair of support arms are in the retracted position. [Figure 27] Side view as viewed from the direction of arrow XXVII of the state where the pair of support arms of FIG. 26 are in the retracted position. [Figure 28] Perspective view showing the configuration of the horizontal movement mechanism and the vertical movement mechanism. [Figure 29] Partial perspective view as viewed from the rear side of the state where the conveying unit is located near the boundary between the case rack and the dispensing table unit. [Figure 30] Partial side view as viewed from the direction of arrow XXX of the state of FIG. 29. [Figure 31] Partial side view as viewed from the direction of arrow XXXI of the horizontal movement mechanism of FIG. 28. [Figure 32] Side view as viewed from the side of the state where the conveying unit is located above the placement part. [Figure 33] Enlarged side view showing part XXXIII of FIG. 32. [Figure 34]This is a partial perspective view from above, showing the transport unit positioned behind the cases that are placed on the top shelf of the case rack. [Figure 35] This is a block diagram showing the configuration of the control circuit included in the drug supply device according to this embodiment. [Figure 36] This is a rear view of a modified drug supply device. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0012] Hereinafter, a drug supply device according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description of the embodiment, the same or corresponding parts in the drawings will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions will not be repeated. In this specification, the left and right directions are described as the directions when the drug supply device is viewed from the front. In addition, the front of the drug supply device may be referred to as the front, and the back of the drug supply device as the rear.

[0013] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a drug supply device according to one embodiment of the present invention, viewed from above on the front side. Figure 2 is a front view of the drug supply device of Figure 1. Figure 3 is a side view of the drug supply device of Figure 1, viewed from the right side. Figure 4 is a rear view of the drug supply device of Figure 1. Figure 5 is a perspective view of a drug supply device according to one embodiment of the present invention, viewed from above on the rear side. In Figures 3 and 5, the right side panel of the dispensing counter unit is shown removed.

[0014] As shown in Figures 1 to 5, a drug supply device 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises a dispensing counter unit 100, a case rack 200, and a transport unit 400. In this embodiment, when viewed from the front, two case racks 200 are arranged side by side to the left of the dispensing counter unit 100. However, the arrangement of the dispensing counter unit 100 and the case racks 200 is not limited to this. Multiple case racks 200 may be arranged so as to sandwich the dispensing counter unit 100 on both sides, or one case rack 200 may be arranged on either the left or right side of the dispensing counter unit 100. Thus, the dispensing counter unit 100 is arranged adjacent to the case racks 200 in the left-right direction.

[0015] The case rack 200 houses multiple cases 300 in which pharmaceuticals are contained. The case rack 200 includes a housing 210, a shelf section 220, a drawer base 230, and an opening / closing door 240.

[0016] Multiple shelf sections 220 are arranged on the front side of the interior of the housing 210, spaced apart from each other in the vertical direction. Multiple cases 300 are placed side by side on each of the multiple shelf sections 220.

[0017] In this embodiment, the front of the housing 210 is divided vertically into an upper region located above the dispensing counter 120 (described later) and a lower region located below the dispensing counter 120. However, the front of the housing 210 does not necessarily have to be divided into an upper region and a lower region.

[0018] The drawer unit 230 is configured to be retractable from the front of the housing 210. The drawer unit 230 is located between the upper and lower regions of the housing 210. The drawer unit 230 is configured to accommodate trays and cases 300 (not shown) capable of holding pharmaceuticals. The drawer unit 230 is not necessarily required to be present.

[0019] The opening / closing doors 240 are positioned at the front of the housing 210 and are configured to open and close the front of the housing 210. In this embodiment, a pair of opening / closing doors 240 are provided in the upper and lower regions of the housing 210. The opening / closing doors 240 are configured to open and close in the left and right directions while folding back. In Figures 1 and 2, the right-hand opening / closing door 240, as viewed from the front, is not shown. The opening / closing doors 240 are configured to be switchable between a locked state and an unlocked state.

[0020] The case rack 200 is configured so that multiple cases 300 can be inserted into and removed from the front of the case rack 200 when the opening / closing door 240 is unlocked and open. Conversely, when the opening / closing door 240 is closed and locked, it is not possible to insert or remove multiple cases 300 from the front of the case rack 200.

[0021] The dispensing counter unit 100 has a mounting section 130 and a dispensing counter 120. The dispensing counter unit 100 further includes a housing 110, a lower storage space 140, an upper storage space 150, a display unit 160, a touch panel 170, a code reader 180, a printer 190, and an indicator light 161. The maximum depth dimension of the dispensing counter unit 100 in the front-to-back direction is, for example, 700 mm.

[0022] In the housing 110, the portion above the mounting section 130 is positioned further back than the portion below the dispensing table 120. In this embodiment, an opening 111 is formed on the front of the housing 110 above the dispensing table 120. Five openings 111 are arranged side by side in the left-right direction. Note that the number of openings 111 is not limited to five; one or more are acceptable.

[0023] A selected case 300a, chosen from a plurality of cases 300, can be placed on the mounting section 130. In this embodiment, the mounting section 130 includes a base section 131 on which the selected case 300a is placed, and a wall section 132 attached to the front end of the base section 131. The wall section 132 is configured to open and close the opening 111. The mounting section 130 does not necessarily have to include the wall section 132; in this case, the housing 110 may be provided with a shutter to open and close the opening 111.

[0024] The mounting section 130 is configured to be retractable in the front-rear direction relative to the housing 110 through the opening 111. However, the mounting section 130 does not necessarily have to be configured to be retractable; in this case, an opening is formed in the housing 110 above the mounting section 130 to allow the drug to be inserted into and removed from the selection case 300a.

[0025] The dispensing table 120 is configured to accommodate trays or other items capable of holding medications. The dispensing table 120 is located below the mounting section 130. A portion of the dispensing table 120 is located below the mounting section 130. Specifically, the rear portion of the dispensing table 120 is located directly below the mounting section 130. The dispensing table 120 and the mounting section 130 are spaced apart vertically. A storage space 112 is formed between the dispensing table 120 and the mounting section 130. Trays or other items for holding medications removed from the selection case 300a can be inserted into the storage space 112 from the front.

[0026] As shown in Figure 3, the dispensing counter 120 is located behind the front end of the case rack 200 when viewed from the left-right direction. In this embodiment, the front end of the case rack 200 is the front end of the handle of the opening / closing door 240.

[0027] The front end of the mounting section 130 is located behind the front end of the case rack 200. As shown in Figure 5, the selected case 300a placed on the mounting section 130 is located behind each of the multiple cases 300 stored in the case rack 200.

[0028] The lower storage space 140 can store other cases that differ in shape or size from case 300, or pharmaceuticals, etc. As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the lower storage space 140 is formed in the housing 110 at a position below the dispensing counter 120. In this embodiment, the lower storage space 140 has multiple drawers, but is not limited to this, and shelves may also be provided. The lower storage space 140 is not necessarily required to be formed.

[0029] The upper storage space 150 can store other cases that differ in shape or size from case 300, or pharmaceuticals, etc. The upper storage space 150 is formed in the housing 110 at a position above the dispensing counter 120. In this embodiment, shelves are arranged in the upper storage space 150, but it is not limited to this, and multiple drawers may be arranged therein. The upper storage space 150 is not necessarily required to be formed.

[0030] The display unit 160 is formed on the front of the housing 110, above the opening 111. The display unit 160 lights up when the selection case 300a is placed on the mounting unit 130, thereby indicating that the selection case 300a is placed on the mounting unit 130.

[0031] The touch panel 170 is located on the front of the housing 110, between the display unit 160 and the upper storage space 150 in the vertical direction, and approximately in the center of the housing 110 in the horizontal direction.

[0032] The touch panel 170 can display patient prescription information and accept selection operations to select any case 300 from multiple cases 300. The touch panel 170 is electrically connected to a control unit (not shown).

[0033] The code reader 180 is located on the front of the housing 110, to the right of the touch panel 170. The code reader 180 reads codes such as barcodes attached to boxes containing medication. The code reader 180 is electrically connected to the control unit.

[0034] When refilling the selection case 300a with medication, the code reader 180 reads the code, allowing the control unit to recognize the medication to be refilled. If the control unit recognizes a medication different from the one to be refilled, it displays an alarm on the touch panel 170. This helps to prevent the incorrect medication from being refilled.

[0035] The printer 190 is located on the front of the housing 110, to the left of the touch panel 170. The printer 190 can print patient names and prescription information, etc. The printer 190 is electrically connected to the control unit.

[0036] The indicator light 161 is located on the ceiling of the housing 110. The indicator light 161 indicates whether or not there is a malfunction in the drug supply device 1. Specifically, it displays blue when the drug supply device 1 is functioning normally and red when the drug supply device 1 is malfunctioning. The indicator light 161 is electrically connected to the control unit.

[0037] Figure 6 is a perspective view from above on the rear side of a drug supply device according to one embodiment of the present invention, showing the transport unit in a state where it has moved above the mounting section. As shown in Figures 3 to 6, the transport unit 400 is movably provided behind the case rack 200 and the dispensing table unit 100, respectively. The transport unit 400 transports the selected case 300a between the case rack 200 and the mounting section 130.

[0038] The transport unit 400 is configured to be movable in the left-right and up-down directions by being connected to the horizontal movement mechanism 500 and the vertical movement mechanism 600. Each of the transport unit 400, the horizontal movement mechanism 500, and the vertical movement mechanism 600 is electrically connected to the control unit.

[0039] The transport unit 400 is configured to be movable only when the opening / closing door 240 is closed and locked. Specifically, the control unit drives the transport unit 400, the horizontal movement mechanism 500, and the vertical movement mechanism 600 only when it recognizes that the opening / closing door 240 is locked.

[0040] As shown in Figure 5, the transport unit 400 is positioned behind the cases 300 placed on the shelf 220 when it moves within the case rack 200.

[0041] As shown in Figure 6, the transport unit 400 moves horizontally above the mounting section 130 inside the dispensing counter unit 100. When the transport unit 400 moves horizontally inside the dispensing counter unit 100, it overlaps with the mounting section 130 when viewed from above. In other words, the transport unit 400 is configured to pass over the selection case 300a placed on the mounting section 130 when viewed from above, and is not configured to pass behind the selection case 300a without overlapping with it.

[0042] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, an identification code 340 is attached to the front of each of the multiple cases 300. The identification code 340 is a code for identifying the drugs stored in the case 300. If multiple drugs are stored in the case 300, multiple identification codes 340 may be attached to the case 300. The identification code 340 may be, for example, a barcode or a QR code (registered trademark). The identification code 340 may be attached to the side of the case 300 instead of the front. The identification code 340 does not necessarily have to be attached to the case 300.

[0043] As shown in Figure 4, an identification code 350 is attached to the rear surface of each of the multiple cases 300. The identification code 350 is a code used to identify each individual case 300. The identification code 350 may be, for example, a barcode, QR code (registered trademark), or Chameleon Code (registered trademark).

[0044] Here, we will describe case 300 according to this embodiment. Figure 7 is a perspective view of a case according to one embodiment of the present invention, viewed from above. Figure 8 is a perspective view of the case body according to one embodiment of the present invention, viewed from above. Figure 9 is a perspective view of the case body according to one embodiment of the present invention, viewed from below.

[0045] As shown in Figures 7 to 9, the case 300 includes a case body 310, a fractional portion storage section 320, and a partition plate 330. Each of the fractional portion storage section 320 and the partition plate 330 is formed to be configurable inside the case body 310.

[0046] The fractional portion storage section 320 is a small case for storing fractional amounts of medication packaged in a PTP (Press Through Package) packaging sheet, for example. The partition plate 330 divides the inside of the case body 310 into multiple areas so that when multiple types of medication are stored in the case 300, each type of medication can be stored separately.

[0047] The case body 310 has a bottom portion 310b, and a front wall portion 310f, a rear wall portion 310r, and a pair of side wall portions 310s that are erected from the periphery of the bottom portion 310b. The case body 310 further has a transparent support portion 311 that faces the front wall portion 310f with a slit 317 in between. The case body 310 is formed by integral molding of resin.

[0048] The transparent support portion 311 is the part that supports the card containing the drug name, which is inserted into the slit 317 from above, so that it can be seen from the front side of the case 300. Specifically, the lower end of the transparent support portion 311 is bent backward, and the card is supported at this bent portion.

[0049] A pair of side wall portions 310s of the case body 310 have stepped portions 312 that extend in the front-rear direction. The outer width of the case body 310 in the left-right direction is wider in the upper part than in the lower part of the stepped portion 312. The inner width of the case body 310 in the left-right direction is also wider in the upper part than in the lower part of the stepped portion 312.

[0050] A pair of protrusions 313 extending in the left-right direction are formed on the upper surface of the rear wall portion 310r of the case body 310. The pair of protrusions 313 are formed at both ends in the left-right direction on the upper surface of the rear wall portion 310r of the case body 310.

[0051] As shown in Figure 9, a pair of recesses 314 are formed at the rear end of the bottom 310b of the case body 310. The pair of recesses 314 are formed at both ends in the left-right direction of the bottom 310b of the case body 310. Each of the pair of recesses 314 is open to the rear. That is, the inner wall surface of each of the pair of recesses 314 is composed of a pair of side wall surfaces 314s that face each other in the left-right direction, and a front wall surface 314f that connects the pair of side wall surfaces 314s.

[0052] As shown in Figures 7 and 8, on the inner surfaces of the pair of side wall portions 310s of the case body 310, a plurality of grooves 315 are formed in the upper portion of the stepped portion 312, into which the left and right ends of the partition plate 330 are inserted. Each of the plurality of grooves 315 extends in the vertical direction.

[0053] On the inner surfaces of the pair of side wall portions 310s of the case body 310, groove portions 316 are formed in the upper portion of the stepped portion 312, which engage with projections 321 formed on each of the pair of side surfaces of the fractional portion storage portion 320 to position the fractional portion storage portion 320 in the front-rear direction.

[0054] As shown in Figure 9, an engaging portion 318 is formed on the rear side of the upper end of the rear wall portion 310r of the case body 310, which engages with the claw portion of the transport unit 400 described later. The engaging portion 318 is positioned opposite the upper end of the rear wall portion 310r at a distance in the front-rear direction. The engaging portion 318 is connected to a flange that extends rearward from the upper end of the rear wall portion 310r.

[0055] Here, the configuration of the mounting section 130 according to this embodiment, and the configuration of the area surrounding the mounting section 130 in the dispensing counter unit 100 will be described.

[0056] Figure 10 is a perspective view from above on the front side of a drug supply device according to one embodiment of the present invention, showing the mounting section in the extended position. Figure 11 is a perspective view from above on the front side of the area around the mounting section in a dispensing counter unit according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 12 is a perspective view from above on the rear side of the area around the mounting section in a dispensing counter unit according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 13 is a perspective view from below on the rear side of the wall portion of the mounting section according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 14 is a side view from the side of a dispensing counter unit according to one embodiment of the present invention, showing the mounting section in the extended position. Figure 15 is a side view from the side of a dispensing counter unit according to one embodiment of the present invention, showing the mounting section in the extended position.

[0057] As shown in Figure 10, the front end of the mounting section 130, when extended and positioned as far forward as possible, is located behind the front end of the dispensing table 120.

[0058] As shown in Figures 10 and 15, when the mounting portion 130 is extended and positioned furthest forward, the front end of the mounting portion 130 is inclined to be lower than the rear end of the mounting portion 130. The front end of the mounting portion 130 is the wall portion 132, and the rear end of the mounting portion 130 is the rear end of the base portion 131.

[0059] As shown in Figures 11, 12, 14, and 15, the base portion 131 has a flat plate shape. An opening 131h is formed in the base portion 131. A pair of rollers 131r are provided at the lower part of the base portion 131, spaced apart in the left-right direction. Each of the pair of rollers 131r is rotatably mounted around a rotation axis extending in the left-right direction. As shown in Figures 14 and 15, a dog 131a and a suction portion 131p are provided at the lower part of the base portion 131. Each of the dog 131a and the suction portion 131p is made from a single bent sheet metal.

[0060] As shown in Figures 11 to 15, a handle 132a is formed at the bottom of the wall portion 132. By placing your hand on the handle 132a and pulling, the mounting portion 130 can be pulled out.

[0061] An opening 132b is formed in the upper part of the wall portion 132. A transparent plate 133 is attached to the rear surface of the wall portion 132 to close the opening 132b. Specifically, as shown in Figure 12, a pair of protrusions 132c are provided on the rear surface of the wall portion 132. The transparent plate 133 is attached to the wall portion 132 by inserting the pair of protrusions 132c through a pair of through holes formed in the transparent plate 133 and then fitting a retaining ring 134 to each of the pair of protrusions 132c.

[0062] This allows the card with the drug name, attached to the selection case 300a, to be visible from the front side of the wall section 132 through the transparent plate 133 and the transparent support section 311.

[0063] As shown in Figures 12 to 15, a projection 132d is formed on the upper part of the rear surface of the wall portion 132, which engages with the upper surface of the front end of the selection case 300a. Specifically, a pair of projections 132d are formed on the upper part of the rear surface of the wall portion 132, spaced apart in the left-right direction. The lower surface of each of the pair of projections 132d is a flat surface.

[0064] As shown in Figures 12, 14, and 15, the area around the mounting section 130 of the dispensing counter unit 100 is provided with a proximity sensor 10, a position detection sensor 11, an electromagnet 12, a guide rail 113, a roller 114, and a contact section 115. Each of the proximity sensor 10, the position detection sensor 11, and the electromagnet 12 is electrically connected to the control unit.

[0065] The proximity sensor 10 detects that the selection case 300a has been placed on the mounting section 130. The proximity sensor 10 is positioned below the opening 131h of the base section 131 when the mounting section 130 is not extended, and detects the presence or absence of the selection case 300a on the base section 131 through the opening 131h.

[0066] The position detection sensor 11 detects that the mounting portion 130 is located at the origin position in the front-rear direction when the mounting portion 130 is not extended. Specifically, the position detection sensor 11 detects that the mounting portion 130 is located at the origin position by detecting the dog 131a provided at the lower part of the base portion 131. In this embodiment, the position detection sensor 11 is a microphotosensor, but is not limited to this, and may be a limit switch or the like.

[0067] The electromagnet 12 can be locked to prevent the mounting portion 130 from moving. Specifically, when current is supplied to the electromagnet 12, it attracts the attached portion 131p located at the bottom of the base portion 131, thereby locking the mounting portion 130 so that it cannot move from its origin position. When the supply of current to the electromagnet 12 is stopped, the lock on the mounting portion 130 is released.

[0068] The guide rails 113 define the movement trajectory of the roller 131r, which is provided at the lower part of the base section 131. Specifically, a pair of guide rails 113 are arranged below the mounting section 130, spaced apart in the left-right direction, and extending in the front-rear direction. Each of the pair of guide rails 113 has a through groove that extends in the front-rear direction. A portion of the front side of the through groove is inclined so as it moves towards the front. The roller 131r moves by rolling inside the through groove. This causes the mounting section 130 to move in the front-rear direction.

[0069] As shown in Figures 14 and 15, the roller 114 acts as a pivot point as the mounting portion 130 rotates and tilts while rolling in contact with the base portion 131 as the mounting portion 130 is pulled out. Specifically, the roller 114 is rotatably supported at a position behind the lower portion of the opening 111.

[0070] As the roller 131r moves forward and upward through the inclined portion of the guide rail 113, the base portion 131 tilts by rotating around the portion supported by the roller 114 as the pivot point.

[0071] As shown in Figure 15, the contact portion 115 contacts the rear portion of the selection case 300a, which is placed on the mounting portion 130 when it is extended and in its foremost position, from above. Specifically, the contact portion 115 is provided on the housing 110 and is positioned behind the upper portion of the opening 111 so as to be able to engage with each of the pair of protrusions 313. In this embodiment, the contact portion 115 is made of sheet metal, but is not limited to this, and may be made of rubber or the like.

[0072] When the mounting section 130 is tilted, the upper surface of the front end of the selection case 300a is held down by the protrusion 132d, and the rear part of the selection case 300a is held down by the protrusion 313, thereby preventing it from being easily removed from the mounting section 130.

[0073] The configuration of the transport unit 400 will now be described. Figure 16 is a front perspective view of the transport unit according to one embodiment of the present invention with the claw portion retracted. Figure 17 is a side perspective view of the transport unit according to one embodiment of the present invention with the claw portion retracted. Figure 18 is a front perspective view of the transport unit according to one embodiment of the present invention with the claw portion advanced. Figure 19 is a side perspective view of the transport unit according to one embodiment of the present invention with the claw portion advanced.

[0074] As shown in Figures 16 to 19, the transport unit 400 includes a housing 410, a motor 420, a pair of pivot shafts 430, a pair of support arms 440, a claw portion 450, a push plate 460, and a code reader 470. The claw portion 450, the push plate 460, and the code reader 470 are configured to move together in the front-rear direction inside the housing 410. Specifically, the claw portion 450, the push plate 460, and the code reader 470 are configured to move in the front-rear direction by a feed screw mechanism.

[0075] The housing 410 is open at the front lower and bottom so as to accommodate and support the selection case 300a. The housing 410 is connected to a connection attachment 630 of the vertical movement mechanism 600 so that the transport unit 400 can be driven by the horizontal movement mechanism 500 and the vertical movement mechanism 600.

[0076] The motor 420 is fixed to the housing 410. The motor 420 drives a pair of pivot shafts 430. Each of the pair of pivot shafts 430 is rotatably mounted one on each of opposing inner surfaces of the lower part of the housing 410. Each of the pair of pivot shafts 430 extends in the front-rear direction.

[0077] A pair of support arms 440 are attached one to each of the pair of pivot shafts 430. Each of the pair of support arms 440 rotates together with the pivot shaft 430 on which it is attached. Each of the pair of support arms 440 is configured to support the selection case 300a by supporting the stepped portion 312 of the selection case 300a from below.

[0078] The claw portion 450 is configured to engage with the inner surface of the engaging portion 318 of the selection case 300a. The claw portion 450 is supported so as to be rotatable in the vertical direction.

[0079] The push plate 460 is configured to contact the outer surface of the engaging portion 318 of the selection case 300a. The push plate 460 is located above the claw portion 450.

[0080] The code reader 470 is configured to read the identification code 350 attached to the selection case 300a. The code reader 470 is located behind the push plate 460.

[0081] Figure 20 is a perspective view showing the transport unit positioned behind the selected cases stored in the case rack. Figure 21 is a partial cross-sectional view of the same state as in Figure 20, seen from the side.

[0082] Here, the configuration of the shelf section 220 of the case rack 200 will be described. As shown in Figures 20 and 21, the shelf section 220 of the case rack 200 is provided with a stopper 223. The stopper 223 restricts the front-to-back position of each of the multiple cases 300 when each of the multiple cases 300 is inserted into the case rack 200 from the front. Moreover, the stopper 223 allows each of the multiple cases 300 to move in the front-to-back direction when each of the multiple cases 300 is inserted into or removed from the case rack 200 from the rear.

[0083] Specifically, the shelf section 220 is provided with multiple guide walls 221 that define the left-right position of the case 300 when it is inserted into the case rack 200 from the front. The case 300 is inserted between the guide walls 221.

[0084] A pair of openings 222 are formed on the rear side of the shelf 220, spaced apart in the left-right direction. Two stoppers 223 are positioned so as to protrude from each of the pair of openings 222. Each of the two stoppers 223 can be changed between a state where it protrudes from the opening 222 and a state where it does not protrude from the opening 222, and is biased by a spring in the direction of protruding from the opening 222.

[0085] When the case 300 is placed into the case rack 200 from the front, the front wall surface 314f of the recess 314 formed in the bottom 310b of the case body 310 comes into contact with the stopper 223, thereby positioning the case 300 in the front-rear direction.

[0086] When the case 300 is inserted into or removed from the case rack 200 from the rear, the stopper 223 is pressed from above against the bottom 310b of the case 300, so that it does not protrude from the opening 222. With the stopper 223 not protruding from the opening 222, the case 300 is allowed to move in the front-to-back direction.

[0087] Here, the operation of the transport unit 400 when it picks up and supports the selected case 300a from the case rack 200 will be described. With the claw portion 450 retracted, the transport unit 400 moves along the rear side of the case rack 200 and stops at a position behind the selected case 300a. As shown in Figures 20 and 21, as the claw portion 450 moves forward, the claw portion 450 is positioned below the engaging portion 318 of the selected case 300a.

[0088] Figure 22 is a partial cross-sectional view from the side of a transport unit located behind a selection case stored in a case rack, showing the state in which the claw portion has been rotated to an upward position. As shown in Figure 22, when the claw portion 450 rotates to an upward position, the claw portion 450 engages with the inner surface of the engaging portion 318 of the selection case 300a.

[0089] As the transport unit 400 rises slightly while the claw portion 450 is engaged with the inner surface of the engaging portion 318 of the selection case 300a, the rear side of the selection case 300a is lifted, as shown in Figure 22, and the engagement between the recess 314 of the selection case 300a and the stopper 223 is released. Alternatively, the claw portion 450 may be configured to rotate upward, thereby lifting the rear side of the selection case 300a and releasing the engagement between the recess 314 of the selection case 300a and the stopper 223. Furthermore, the stopper 223 may be configured to retract from the recess 314 of the selection case 300a.

[0090] Figure 23 is a partial cross-sectional view showing the state in which the claw portion engaged with the inner surface of the engagement portion of the selection case is retracted. As shown in Figure 23, when the lead screw mechanism 480 is driven, the claw portion 450, which is engaged with the inner surface of the engagement portion 318 of the selection case 300a, retracts, causing the selection case 300a to slide backward on the shelf portion 220. At this time, the stopper 223 is pressed from above by the bottom portion 310b of the selection case 300a and is not protruding from the opening 222.

[0091] In this manner, when the transport unit 400 pulls out the selection case 300a stored in the case rack 200 to the rear of the case rack 200, it lifts the rear of the selection case 300a so that the selection case 300a can pass over the stopper 223.

[0092] Figure 24 is a perspective view of the transport unit from the front, showing the state in which the claw portion that has engaged with the inner surface of the engagement portion of the selected case has finished retracting. Figure 25 is a perspective view of the transport unit of Figure 24 from the direction of arrow XXV.

[0093] When the transport unit 400 pulls out the selected case 300a, which is stored in the case rack 200, to the rear of the case rack 200, it positions each of the pair of support arms 440 in a support position.

[0094] As shown in Figures 24 and 25, in the transport unit 400, when the claw portion 450 that has engaged with the inner surface of the engaging portion 318 of the selection case 300a has finished retracting, each of the pair of support arms 440 is in a support position, supporting the stepped portion 312 of the selection case 300a from below. This allows the transport unit 400 to house and support the selection case 300a. The transport unit 400, having housed and supported the selection case 300a, moves to a position above the mounting portion 130 and descends until the supported selection case 300a is positioned directly above the base portion 131 of the mounting portion 130.

[0095] Figure 26 is a front view of the pair of support arms in the retracted position, as seen from the front. Figure 27 is a side view of the pair of support arms in the retracted position, as seen from the direction of arrow XXVII.

[0096] When the selection case 300a is positioned directly above the base portion 131 of the mounting portion 130, the motor 420 drives a pair of pivot shafts 430, as shown in Figures 26 and 27. As a result, each of the pair of support arms 440 rotates with the pivot shaft 430 on which it is attached, moving to a retracted position below the pair of pivot shafts 430. This places the selection case 300a on the mounting portion 130.

[0097] Here, we will describe the configurations of the horizontal movement mechanism 500, which moves the transport unit 400 horizontally, and the vertical movement mechanism 600, which moves the transport unit 400 vertically.

[0098] Figure 28 is a perspective view showing the configuration of the horizontal and vertical movement mechanisms. Figure 29 is a partial perspective view from the rear showing the transport unit positioned near the boundary between the case rack and the dispensing counter unit. Figure 30 is a partial side view of the state shown in Figure 29, viewed from the direction of arrow XXX. Figure 31 is a partial side view of the horizontal movement mechanism in Figure 28, viewed from the direction of arrow XXXI.

[0099] As shown in Figures 28 to 31, the horizontal movement mechanism 500 includes a movable base 590, a motor 510, a lower pinion 520, an upper pinion 521, a lower rack 530, an upper rack 531, a lower rail 540, an upper rail 541, a pair of lower rollers 550, a pair of upper rollers 551, a movable horizontal dog 560, a fixed horizontal dog 570, and a connecting shaft 580.

[0100] The movable base 590 is configured to be movable in the left-right direction. Specifically, the movable base 590 is connected to each of the pair of lower rollers 550 and the pair of upper rollers 551. The pair of lower rollers 550 are arranged to roll in contact with the lower rail 540 which extends in the left-right direction. The pair of upper rollers 551 are arranged to roll in contact with the upper rail 541 which extends in the left-right direction.

[0101] A motor 510 is fixed to the lower part of the movable base 590. The output of the motor 510 is transmitted to the lower pinion 520. The lower pinion 520 engages with the lower rack 530, which extends in the left-right direction. The output of the motor 510 causes the lower pinion 520 to rotate while meshing with the lower rack 530, thereby moving the movable base 590 in the left-right direction.

[0102] The lower pinion 520 is connected to the upper pinion 521 via a connecting shaft 580 that extends in the vertical direction. The upper pinion 521 engages with an upper rack 531 that extends in the left-right direction. As the upper pinion 521 rotates together with the lower pinion 520 while meshing with the upper rack 531, the movable base 590 can move horizontally while remaining vertically upright without tilting. In this embodiment, the horizontal movement mechanism 500 is composed of a rack and pinion mechanism, but is not limited to this, and may be composed of a winding transmission mechanism such as a belt or chain.

[0103] The case rack 200 is equipped with a first horizontal position detection sensor 50 for detecting that the movable base 590 is located at the origin position in the left-right direction, and a second horizontal position detection sensor 51 for detecting that the movable base 590 is located at the initial position in the left-right direction. The dispensing counter unit 100 is equipped with a third horizontal position detection sensor 52 for detecting that the movable base 590 is located at the end position in the left-right direction. A fourth horizontal position detection sensor 53 is located on the underside of the movable base 590 for detecting that the movable base 590 is located inside the dispensing counter unit 100.

[0104] Each of the first horizontal position detection sensor 50, the second horizontal position detection sensor 51, the third horizontal position detection sensor 52, and the fourth horizontal position detection sensor 53 is a microphotosensor, but is not limited to this; for example, a limit switch may also be used. Each of the first horizontal position detection sensor 50, the second horizontal position detection sensor 51, the third horizontal position detection sensor 52, and the fourth horizontal position detection sensor 53 is electrically connected to the control unit.

[0105] The first horizontal position detection sensor 50 detects that the movable base 590 is located at the origin position in the left-right direction by detecting the movable horizontal dog 560 fixed to the lower surface of the movable base 590.

[0106] The second horizontal position detection sensor 51 detects that the movable base 590 is in an initial position in the left-right direction by detecting the movable horizontal dog 560. The initial position is a few centimeters to the right of the origin position of the movable base 590. The movable base 590, moving toward the origin position in the left-right direction, moves at high speed until it reaches the initial position in the left-right direction, and then decelerates after passing the initial position, thereby shortening the time it takes to reach the origin position. The second horizontal position detection sensor 51 is not necessarily required.

[0107] The third horizontal position detection sensor 52 detects that the movable base 590 is located at the end position in the left-right direction by detecting the movable horizontal dog 560. The third horizontal position detection sensor 52 is not necessarily required.

[0108] The fourth horizontal position detection sensor 53 detects that the movable base 590 is located inside the dispensing counter unit 100 by detecting the fixed horizontal dog 570 which is arranged along the entire length of the dispensing counter unit 100 in the left-right direction.

[0109] The vertical movement mechanism 600 includes a motor 610, a belt 620, a connecting attachment 630, and a linear guide 640, and a movable vertical dog 631. Each of the motor 610, belt 620, connecting attachment 630, and linear guide 640 is mounted on a movable base 590.

[0110] Specifically, the motor 610 is fixed to the lower part of the movable base 590. The output of the motor 610 is transmitted to the belt 620, which rotates. The belt 620 is wrapped around a pair of pulleys that are spaced apart vertically. The connecting attachment 630 is fixed to the belt 620. The connecting attachment 630 engages with a vertically extending linear guide 640. As the belt 620 rotates, the connecting attachment 630 moves vertically along the linear guide 640. The movable vertical dog 631 is formed by bending a portion of the connecting attachment 630. The movable vertical dog 631 moves vertically together with the connecting attachment 630.

[0111] As mentioned above, the connecting attachment 630 is connected to the housing 410 of the transport unit 400. In this way, the transport unit 400 is configured to be movable in the vertical direction by the vertical movement mechanism 600. Furthermore, the transport unit 400 is configured to be movable in the left-right direction as the movable base 590 moves by the horizontal movement mechanism 500.

[0112] Figure 32 is a side view showing the transport unit positioned above the mounting section. Figure 33 is a side view showing an enlarged view of section XXXIII in Figure 32. Figure 34 is a partial perspective view showing the transport unit positioned behind the cases placed on the top shelf of the case rack, viewed from above.

[0113] As shown in Figures 32 and 33, when the transport unit 400 is positioned above the mounting section 130, the transport unit 400 can only move left and right within the passable area of ​​length L shown in Figure 33. Specifically, below the passable area, the transport unit 400 cannot move left and right because it interferes with the selection case 300a on the mounting section 130. Above the passable area, the transport unit 400 cannot move left and right because it interferes with the housing 110 of the dispensing table unit 100.

[0114] As shown in Figures 32 to 34, the movable base 590 is equipped with a first vertical position detection sensor 60, a second vertical position detection sensor 61, a third vertical position detection sensor 62, a fourth vertical position detection sensor 63, and a fifth vertical position detection sensor 64.

[0115] Each of the first vertical position detection sensors 60, second vertical position detection sensor 61, third vertical position detection sensor 62, fourth vertical position detection sensor 63, and fifth vertical position detection sensor 64 is a microphotosensor, but is not limited to this; for example, a limit switch may also be used. Each of the first vertical position detection sensors 60, second vertical position detection sensor 61, third vertical position detection sensor 62, fourth vertical position detection sensor 63, and fifth vertical position detection sensor 64 is electrically connected to the control unit.

[0116] The first vertical position detection sensor 60 detects that the transport unit 400 is located at the origin position in the vertical direction by detecting the movable vertical dog 631.

[0117] The second vertical position detection sensor 61 detects that the transport unit 400 is located below the upper limit within the passable area by detecting the movable vertical dog 631.

[0118] The third vertical position detection sensor 62 detects that the transport unit 400 is located above the lower limit within the passable area by detecting the movable vertical dog 631.

[0119] The transport unit 400 is configured to be movable in the left-right direction only when the second vertical position detection sensor 61 and the third vertical position detection sensor 62 each detect the movable vertical dog 631. In other words, the transport unit 400 is configured to be movable in the left-right direction only when it is detected that it is located within the passable area.

[0120] The fourth vertical position detection sensor 63 detects the movable vertical dog 631 and detects that the transport unit 400 has reached the upper limit of a position where it does not interfere with the ceiling portion 219 of the case rack 200 shown in Figure 34. The transport unit 400 is configured so that it cannot move in the left-right direction to pass through the ceiling portion 219 of the case rack 200 when the fourth vertical position detection sensor 63 detects the movable vertical dog 631.

[0121] The fifth vertical position detection sensor 64 detects that the transport unit 400 is located at the end of the vertical direction by detecting the movable vertical dog 631.

[0122] Here, the operation for taking out or replenishing medication in the medication supply device 1 according to this embodiment will be described. The medication supply device 1 according to this embodiment is switchable between a first mode and a second mode. In the first mode, medication can be taken out or replenished in front of the dispensing counter unit 100. In the second mode, medication can be taken out or replenished in front of the case rack 200.

[0123] First, the operation for taking out or replenishing medication in front of the dispensing counter unit 100 in the drug supply device 1 according to this embodiment will be described. Figure 35 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the control circuit provided in the drug supply device according to this embodiment. As shown in Figure 35, the drug supply device 1 includes a control unit 90.

[0124] When the first mode is selected on the touch panel 170, the control unit 90 selects from among multiple cases stored in the case rack 200, based on the information it stores, a case containing the medication to be retrieved or a case to be replenished with medication.

[0125] The control unit 90 operates the horizontal movement mechanism 500 and the vertical movement mechanism 600 to position the transport unit 400 behind the selection case 300a stored in the case rack 200, as shown in Figure 20.

[0126] After the transport unit 400 houses and supports the selection case 300a, the control unit 90 operates the horizontal movement mechanism 500 and the vertical movement mechanism 600 to position the transport unit 400 above the mounting section 130, as shown in Figure 6.

[0127] The transport unit 400, positioned above the mounting section 130, descends until the supported selection case 300a is positioned directly above the base section 131 of the mounting section 130. Subsequently, the pair of support arms 440 rotate to release the support of the selection case 300a, and a portion of the bottom 130b of the selection case 300a is placed on the base section 131. In this state, the push plate 460 moves forward while pushing the outer surface of the engaging section 318 of the selection case 300a, causing the front end of the selection case 300a to come into contact with the wall section 132 of the mounting section 130, and the selection case 300a is placed on the base section 131.

[0128] When the proximity sensor 10 detects that the selection case 300a has been placed on the base portion 131, the display unit 160 corresponding to the placement portion 130 lights up, the lock on the electromagnet 12 is released, and the placement portion 130 can be pulled out.

[0129] As shown in Figure 15, with the mounting section 130 pulled out and tilted, the drug contained in the selection case 300a is removed, or the drug is replenished in the selection case 300a.

[0130] When the position detection sensor 11 detects that the removal or replenishment of medication is complete and the mounting unit 130 has been returned to the dispensing counter unit 100, the mounting unit 130 is locked by the electromagnet 12. Subsequently, the selection case 300a placed on the mounting unit 130 is transported by the transport unit 400 and returned to its original position in the case rack 200 stored in the control unit 90.

[0131] Next, we will describe the operation for removing or replenishing drugs in front of the case rack 200 in the drug supply device 1 according to this embodiment.

[0132] When the second mode is selected on the touch panel 170, the opening / closing door 240 is unlocked, and the transport unit 400 becomes immobile. In this state, any case 300 from among the multiple cases 300 stored in the case rack 200 can be pulled out from the front of the case rack 200 to take out or replenish the medication.

[0133] Case 300, after the drug has been removed or replenished, is placed back into the case rack 200 from the front. When cases 300 are removed and put back in in this manner, they are not always returned to their original positions in the case rack 200. Therefore, before operating in the first mode, it is necessary to inform the control unit 90 of the placement of each of the multiple cases 300 within the case rack 200.

[0134] Therefore, in the drug supply device 1 according to this embodiment, the transport unit 400 moves behind the case rack 200, and the code reader 470 reads the identification code 350 of each of the multiple cases 300, thereby determining the storage positions of the multiple cases 300 in the case rack 200. At this time, the code reader 470 is positioned forward to the extent that it does not interfere with the cases 300.

[0135] The storage positions of the multiple cases 300 that have been identified are stored in the control unit 90, and based on this stored information, the selected case 300a is transported during first mode operation.

[0136] The method for determining the storage locations of the multiple cases 300 is not limited to the above; a method using the so-called Chameleon Code (registered trademark) may also be used. Figure 36 is a rear view of a modified drug supply device.

[0137] As shown in Figure 36, in the modified drug supply device, an identification code 350a is attached to the rear surface of each of the multiple cases 300. The identification code 350a is Chameleon Code (registered trademark). An imaging unit 290 capable of imaging the identification code 350a of each of the multiple cases 300 is provided on the rear side of the case rack 200. If one imaging unit 290 cannot image all of the cases 300 housed in the case rack 200, multiple imaging units 290 may be provided. Based on the images captured by the imaging unit 290, the storage positions of the multiple cases 300 in the case rack 200 are determined. The control unit 90 can simultaneously determine the storage positions of the multiple cases 300 in the case rack 200 by analyzing the images captured by the imaging unit 290.

[0138] In the modified drug supply device, the storage positions of multiple cases 300 can be determined without scanning the transport unit 400, thus shortening the switching time between the second mode and the first mode.

[0139] In the drug supply device according to this embodiment, the selection case 300a placed on the mounting section 130 is located at the rear compared to each of the multiple cases 300 stored in the case rack 200. This reduces the space occupied by the drug supply device in the front-to-back direction.

[0140] In the drug supply device according to this embodiment, a portion of the dispensing table 120 is located below the mounting section 130. This reduces the space occupied by the drug supply device in the front-to-back direction.

[0141] In the drug supply device according to this embodiment, the transport unit 400 overlaps with the mounting section 130 when viewed from above as it moves left to right inside the dispensing table unit 100. This reduces the space occupied by the drug supply device in the front-to-back direction.

[0142] In the drug supply device according to this embodiment, the dispensing table 120 is located behind the front end of the case rack 200 when viewed from the left and right directions. This reduces the space occupied by the drug supply device in the front-to-back direction.

[0143] In the drug supply device according to this embodiment, the mounting section 130 is retractable in the front-rear direction relative to the housing 110. This allows for easy insertion and removal of drugs from the selection case 300a mounted on the mounting section 130.

[0144] In the drug supply device according to this embodiment, the front end of the mounting section 130, when extended and positioned furthest forward, is located behind the front end of the dispensing table 120. This reduces the space occupied by the drug supply device in the front-to-back direction.

[0145] In the dispensing counter unit 100 of the drug supply device according to this embodiment, a storage space is formed at least one of the following locations: below the dispensing counter 120 and above the mounting section 130. This allows various drugs and other items to be easily prepared while standing in front of the dispensing counter 120.

[0146] In the drug supply device according to this embodiment, the case rack 200 is configured to allow multiple cases 300 to be inserted and removed from the front of the case rack 200. This allows the drug supply device to select between a first mode in which cases 300 containing drugs are automatically inserted and removed from the rear of the device, and a second mode in which cases 300 can be manually inserted and removed from the front of the device.

[0147] In the drug supply device according to this embodiment, the case rack 200 is provided with a stopper 223 that restricts the front-to-back position of each of the multiple cases 300 when each of the multiple cases 300 is placed into the case rack 200 from the front. As a result, even when the cases 300 are placed into the case rack 200 manually, the cases 300 can be positioned in the specified location, and the cases 300 can be automatically transported using the transport unit 400.

[0148] In the drug supply device according to this embodiment, when the transport unit 400 pulls out the selection case 300a stored in the case rack 200 to the rear of the case rack 200, it lifts the rear side of the selection case 300a so that the selection case 300a can pass over the stopper 223. As a result, the transport unit 400 can pull out and transport the selection case 300a to the rear without interfering with the stopper 223.

[0149] In the drug supply device according to this embodiment, the case rack 200 has an opening / closing door 240 at the front. The case rack 200 is configured to allow multiple cases 300 to be inserted into and removed from the front when the opening / closing door 240 is unlocked and open, and the transport unit 400 is configured to be movable only when the opening / closing door 240 is closed and locked. This prevents the transport unit 400 from transporting the wrong selected case 300a by changing the arrangement position of the multiple cases 300 during the second mode.

[0150] In the drug supply device according to this embodiment, the transport unit 400 moves behind the case rack 200, and the code reader 470 scans the identification code 350 of each of the multiple cases 300, thereby determining the storage positions of the multiple cases 300 in the case rack 200. This allows the storage positions of the multiple cases 300 that have been taken in and out in the second mode to be determined, and the system can switch to the first mode.

[0151] In the drug supply device according to this embodiment, when the mounting section 130 is pulled out and positioned furthest forward, the front end of the mounting section 130 is inclined to be lower than the rear end of the mounting section 130. This improves the visibility of the drug when removing it from the selection case 300a placed on the mounting section 130, making it easier to remove the drug.

[0152] In this embodiment, the housing 110 of the dispensing counter unit 100 of the drug supply device has a contact portion 115 formed therein that contacts the rear portion of the selection case 300a, which is placed on the mounting portion 130 when it is pulled out and positioned as far forward as possible, from above. This prevents the selection case 300a, which is placed on the mounting portion 130, from falling off the mounting portion 130.

[0153] In the drug supply device according to this embodiment, the mounting section 130 includes a base section 131 on which the selection case 300a is mounted, and a wall section 132 attached to the front end of the base section 131. A projection 132d is formed on the upper part of the rear surface of the wall section 132, which engages with the upper surface of the front end of the selection case 300a. This prevents the selection case 300a, which is mounted on the mounting section 130, from falling off the mounting section 130.

[0154] In the drug supply device according to this embodiment, the dispensing stand unit 100 is provided with a roller 114 that acts as a pivot point when the mounting section 130 rotates and tilts while rolling in contact with the base section 131 as the mounting section 130 is pulled out. This allows the pulled-out mounting section 130 to rotate and tilt.

[0155] Furthermore, the embodiments disclosed herein are illustrative in all respects and do not constitute a limiting interpretation. Therefore, the technical scope of the present invention is not construed solely by the embodiments described above, but is defined based on the claims. This also includes all modifications within the meaning and scope of the equivalents of the claims. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0156] 1 Drug supply device, 10 Proximity sensor, 11 Position detection sensor, 12 Electromagnet, 50 First horizontal position detection sensor, 51 Second horizontal position detection sensor, 52 Third horizontal position detection sensor, 53 Fourth horizontal position detection sensor, 60 First vertical position detection sensor, 61 Second vertical position detection sensor, 62 Third vertical position detection sensor, 63 Fourth vertical position detection sensor, 64 Fifth vertical position detection sensor, 90 Control unit, 100 Dispensing stand unit, 110, 210, 410 Housing, 111, 131h, 132b, 222 Opening, 112 Storage space, 113 Guide rail, 114, 131r Roller, 115 Contact part, 120 Dispensing stand, 130 Mounting part, 130b, 310b Bottom part, 131 Base part, 131a Dog, 131p Adsorption part, 132 Wall section, 132c, 321 projection, 132d, 313 protruding part, 133 transparent plate, 134 retaining ring, 140 lower storage space, 150 upper storage space, 160 display unit, 161 indicator light, 170 touch panel, 180, 470 code reader, 190 printer, 200 case rack, 219 ceiling section, 220 shelf section, 221 guide wall, 223 stopper, 230 drawer base, 240 opening / closing door, 290 imaging unit, 300 case, 300a selection case, 310 case body, 310f front wall section, 310r rear wall section, 310s side wall section, 311 transparent support section, 312 step section, 314 recess, 314f front wall surface, 314s side wall surface, 315, 316 Groove, 317 Slit, 318 Engaging part, 320 Fractional part, 330 Partition plate, 340, 350, 350a Identification code, 400 Conveying unit, 420, 510, 610 Motor, 430 Rotating shaft, 440 Support arm, 450 Claw part, 460 Push plate, 480 Screw mechanism, 500 Horizontal movement mechanism, 520 Lower pinion, 521 Upper pinion, 530 Lower rack, 531 Upper rack, 540 Lower rail, 541 Upper rail, 550 Lower roller, 551 Upper roller, 560 Movable horizontal dog, 570 Fixed horizontal dog, 580 Connecting shaft, 590 Movable base, 600 Vertical movement mechanism, 620 Belt, 630 Connecting attachment, 631 Movable vertical dog, 640 linear guide.

Claims

1. A case rack that stores multiple cases containing pharmaceuticals, A mounting section on which a selected case chosen from the aforementioned multiple cases can be placed, The system includes a transport unit that transports the selected cases between the case rack and the aforementioned storage unit, The aforementioned multiple cases are open upwards, The mounting section is retractable in the front-rear direction relative to the housing. A drug supply device wherein, while the aforementioned selection case is placed on the aforementioned placement section, the aforementioned placement section is pulled forward from the housing, thereby enabling the drug to be inserted into and removed from the aforementioned selection case placed on the aforementioned placement section.

2. The drug supply device according to claim 1, wherein the housing has a contact portion that contacts from above with the rear portion of the selection case that is placed on the aforementioned placement portion when it is pulled out and positioned as far forward as possible.

3. The mounting portion includes a base portion on which the selected case is placed and a wall portion attached to the front end of the base portion. The drug supply device according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein a projection is formed on the upper part of the rear surface of the wall portion, which engages with the upper surface of the front end of the selection case.

4. A mounting section on which a selected case, chosen from a plurality of cases containing a drug, can be placed, The aforementioned multiple cases are open upwards, The mounting section is retractable in the front-rear direction relative to the housing. A drug supply device having a housing formed with a contact portion that contacts from above the rear portion of the selection case, which is placed on the aforementioned placement portion when it is pulled out and positioned as far forward as possible.

5. The mounting portion includes a base portion on which the selected case is mounted and a wall portion attached to the front end of the base portion, The drug supply device according to claim 4, wherein a projection is formed on the upper part of the rear surface of the wall portion, which engages with the upper surface of the front end of the selection case.

Images