Drug supply device

Abstract

To perform a maintenance easily.SOLUTION: Multiple cases are arrayed along a virtual plane vertical to a cross direction in a case rack 200a. A lower part 280 of the case rack 200a is provided drawably forward from a body of the case rack 200a.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 54

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] As a prior art document that discloses 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 so 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 back side of the device. A tray for storing the drugs taken out from the box is placed on the tray mounting table.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

[0006] In one embodiment of the present invention, the lower part of the case rack is movable in the front-rear direction by a slide rail.

[0007] In one embodiment of the present invention, a circuit board is provided in the lower part of the case rack.

[0008] In one embodiment of the present invention, the drug supply device further comprises a control unit. The circuit board is electrically connected to the control unit through drawer connectors provided on the lower part of the case rack and on the main body, respectively. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the present invention, maintenance can be easily performed. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [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]Perspective view of the state where the conveyance unit has moved above the placement part in the drug supply device according to an embodiment of the present invention, as seen from above the back side. [Figure 7] Perspective view of the case according to an embodiment of the present invention, as seen from above. [Figure 8] Perspective view of the case body according to an embodiment of the present invention, as seen from above. [Figure 9] Perspective view of the case body according to an embodiment of the present invention, as seen from below. [Figure 10] Perspective view of the state where the placement part has been pulled out in the drug supply device according to an embodiment of the present invention, as seen from above the front side. [Figure 11] Perspective view of the periphery of the placement part in the dispensing table unit according to an embodiment of the present invention, as seen from above the front side. [Figure 12] Perspective view of the periphery of the placement part according to an embodiment of the present invention, as seen from below the back side. [Figure 13] Perspective view of the state where the placement part has been removed in the dispensing table unit according to an embodiment of the present invention, as seen from above. [Figure 14] Cross-sectional view of the periphery of the placement part in FIG. 11, as seen in the direction of the arrow XIV-XIV. [Figure 15] Side view of the state where the placement part has been pulled out in the dispensing table unit according to an embodiment of the present invention, as seen from the side. [[ID=二十九]] [Figure 16] Side view of the state where the selection case has been removed from the pulled-out placement part in the dispensing table unit according to an embodiment of the present invention, as seen from the side. [Figure 17] Perspective view of the state where the claw part of the conveyance unit has retracted according to an embodiment of the present invention, as seen from the front. [Figure 18] Perspective view of the state in FIG. 17, as seen in the direction of the arrow XVIII. [Figure 19] Perspective view of the state where the claw part of the conveyance unit has advanced according to an embodiment of the present invention, as seen from the front. [Figure 20] Perspective view of the conveyance unit in FIG. 19, as seen in the direction of the arrow XX. [Figure 21] It is a longitudinal sectional view of a selected case stored in a case rack. [Figure 22] It is a longitudinal sectional view of a two - tier shelf board part. [Figure 23] It is a perspective view showing the structure of a stopper and a guard. [Figure 24] It is a plan view showing the structure of a stopper and a guard. [Figure 25] It is a rear view showing the structure of a stopper and a guard. [Figure 26] It is a sectional view of the stopper and the guard in FIG. 25 as viewed from the direction of the arrow XXVI - XXVI. [Figure 27] It is a perspective view of a selected case stored in a case rack. [Figure 28] It is a longitudinal sectional view of the state where the claw part of the conveying unit located behind the selected case stored in the case rack has advanced. [Figure 29] It is a longitudinal sectional view of the state where the claw part rotates upward in the conveying unit located behind the selected case stored in the case rack. [Figure 30] It is a sectional view showing the state where the claw part engaged with the inner surface of the engaging part of the selected case has retreated. [Figure 31] It is a perspective view of the conveying unit as viewed from the front in the state where the claw part engaged with the inner surface of the engaging part of the selected case has finished retreating. [Figure 32] It is a perspective view of the conveying unit in FIG. 31 as viewed from the direction of the arrow XXXII. [Figure 33] It is a front view of the state where a pair of support arms are in the retracted position as viewed from the front. [Figure 34] It is a side view of the state where a pair of support arms in FIG. 33 are in the retracted position as viewed from the direction of the arrow XXXIV. [Figure 35] It is a block diagram showing the configuration of the control circuit included in the drug supply device according to the present embodiment. [Figure 36]This flowchart shows the operation of the transport unit when transporting a selected case, which is placed on a mounting section, to a case rack in the drug supply device according to this embodiment. [Figure 37] This figure shows an example of a drug supply device according to this embodiment, in which the transport unit has transported a selection case containing one drug to be supplied, which is included in the first prescription data, to a placement unit. [Figure 38] This figure shows an example of a drug supply device according to this embodiment, where the transport unit has transported another selection case containing other drugs to be supplied, which are included in the first prescription data, to another mounting unit. [Figure 39] This figure shows an example of a drug supply device according to this embodiment, in which the transport unit sequentially transports the selected cases containing the drugs to be supplied, as included in the second prescription data, to the designated placement unit. [Figure 40] This figure shows an example of a drug supply device according to this embodiment, where the transport unit has transported a selection case containing one drug to be supplied, which is included in the first prescription data, from a mounting unit to a case rack. [Figure 41] This figure shows an example of a drug supply device according to this embodiment, where the transport unit has transported another selection case containing other drugs to be supplied, which are included in the first prescription data, from another mounting unit to the case rack. [Figure 42] This figure shows a first modified example of the drug supply device according to this embodiment, in which the transport unit has transported a selection case containing one drug to be supplied, which is included in the first prescription data, to a placement unit. [Figure 43] This figure shows a first modified example of the drug supply device according to this embodiment, in which the transport unit has transported another selection case containing other drugs to be supplied, which are included in the first prescription data, to another mounting unit. [Figure 44] This figure shows a first modified example of the drug supply device according to this embodiment, in which the transport unit sequentially transports the selected cases containing the drugs to be supplied, as included in the second prescription data, to the designated placement unit. [Figure 45]This figure shows a first modified example of the drug supply device according to this embodiment, in which the transport unit transports a selection case containing one drug to be supplied, which is included in the first prescription data, from a mounting unit to a case rack. [Figure 46] This figure shows a first modified example of the drug supply device according to this embodiment, in which the transport unit transports another selection case containing other drugs to be supplied, which are included in the first prescription data, from another mounting section to the case rack. [Figure 47] This figure shows an example of the display on the touch panel of the drug supply device according to this embodiment. [Figure 48] This is a power supply diagram for the drug supply device according to this embodiment. [Figure 49] This is an electrical circuit diagram of the portion of the drug supply device according to this embodiment that includes the first open / close detection unit and the relay. [Figure 50] This flowchart shows the safety assurance operation performed by the control unit while the transport unit is in operation in the drug supply device according to this embodiment. [Figure 51] This is a rear view of a case rack of a second modified example of the drug supply device according to this embodiment. [Figure 52] Figure 51 is a side view of the case rack as seen from the direction of arrow LII. [Figure 53] This is a perspective view showing the lower part of the case rack of a second modified example of the drug supply device according to this embodiment in a pulled-out state. [Figure 54] Figure 53 is a side view of the case rack as seen from the direction of arrow LIV. [Figure 55] This figure shows the initial screen of the prescription display on the touch panel of the drug supply device according to this embodiment. [Figure 56] This figure shows the prescription screen displayed on the touch panel of the drug supply device according to this embodiment, where, of the two entered prescription data, the prescription status of one prescription data is "dispensed" and the prescription status of the next prescription data is "awaiting instruction". [Figure 57]This figure shows the state in which a filling button is displayed in the display area of ​​the mounting section corresponding to the mounting section on which the selected case is placed, in the prescription screen displayed on the touch panel of the drug supply device according to this embodiment. [Figure 58] This figure shows the prescription screen displayed on the touch panel of the drug supply device according to this embodiment, where the prescription status of the two entered prescription data is in the "dispensed" state. [Figure 59] This figure shows the state in which, in the prescription screen displayed on the touch panel of the drug supply device according to this embodiment, one selection case containing the drug to be supplied, which is included in one of two prescription data sets whose prescription status is "dispensed," has been transported from the mounting unit to the case rack and returned. [Figure 60] This figure shows the prescription screen displayed on the touch panel of the drug supply device according to this embodiment, in a state where all selected cases containing the drug to be supplied, which are included in one of the two prescription data, have been transported from the mounting unit to the case rack and returned. [Figure 61] This figure shows the state in which the unlock button is displayed in the instruction selection area of ​​the prescription screen displayed on the touch panel of the drug supply device according to this embodiment. [Figure 62] This figure shows the prescription screen displayed on the touch panel of the drug supply device according to this embodiment, where the prescription status of the three entered prescription data is in the "dispensed" state. [Figure 63] This figure shows the prescription screen displayed on the touch panel of the drug supply device according to this embodiment, in which all selected cases containing the drugs to be supplied, which are included in two of the three prescription data, have been transported from the mounting unit to the case rack and returned. [Figure 64] This figure shows the prescription screen displayed on the touch panel of the drug supply device according to this embodiment, where, of the two entered prescription data, the prescription status of one prescription data is pending, and the prescription status of the next prescription data is waiting for instructions. [Figure 65]This figure shows the drug filling screen displayed on the touch panel of the drug supply device according to this embodiment. [Figure 66] This figure shows the state in which an input screen is displayed on the touch panel of the drug supply device according to this embodiment, allowing the user to input the quantity of drug to be filled into the selected case. [Figure 67] This is a drug inventory screen displayed on the touch panel of the drug supply device according to this embodiment. [Figure 68] This figure shows the drug screen displayed on the touch panel of the drug supply device according to this embodiment. [Figure 69] This figure shows the drug selection screen displayed on the touch panel of the drug supply device according to this embodiment. [Figure 70] This figure shows the case information registration screen displayed on the touch panel of the drug supply device according to this embodiment. [Figure 71] This figure shows the prescription screen displayed on the touch panel of the drug supply device according to this embodiment, where the prescription status of the three sequentially instructed prescription data is in a processed state. [Figure 72] This figure shows the processed prescription information screen displayed on the touch panel of the drug supply device according to this embodiment. [Figure 73] This figure shows the case sorting screen displayed on the touch panel of the drug supply device according to this embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0011] 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.

[0012] 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.

[0013] 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.

[0014] The case rack 200 houses multiple cases 300 in which pharmaceuticals are contained. The case rack 200 is the first storage section and stores the first pharmaceutical. The first storage section may also house medicine boxes containing the first pharmaceutical. The first pharmaceutical includes various pharmaceuticals. The case rack 200 is configured so that multiple cases 300 can be manually inserted and removed from the front of the case rack 200.

[0015] The case rack 200 includes a housing 210, shelf sections 220, a workbench 230, an opening / closing door 240, a first opening / closing detection unit 251, a second opening / closing detection unit 250, and a locking unit 260. The 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 on each of the multiple shelf sections 220, side by side in the horizontal direction. The multiple cases 300 are arranged in predetermined positions along a virtual plane perpendicular to the front-to-back direction within the case rack 200.

[0016] 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.

[0017] The workbench 230 is used in front of the case rack 200 when loading and unloading medications into multiple cases 300. The workbench 230 is configured to accommodate trays (not shown) and cases 300 capable of holding medications. The workbench 230 is not necessarily required to be present.

[0018] As shown in Figure 3, the workbench 230 is configured to be switchable between a first state in which it protrudes forward from the front of the case rack 200 and a second state in which it is located behind the front of the case rack 200. As shown in Figures 4 to 6, the case rack 200 has a storage space S230 for housing the workbench 230. In the second state, the workbench 230 is stored in the storage space S230.

[0019] In this embodiment, the workbench 230 is retractable into the storage space S230 and retractable from the storage space S230. The workbench 230 is configured to be retractable forward from the housing 210. The workbench 230 includes a push-open mechanism 231 that biases the workbench 230 to move forward when its front surface is pressed. The configuration of the workbench 230 is not limited to the above; for example, it may be configured to move in and out in the front-rear direction by rotating around a pivot axis.

[0020] The workbench 230 is positioned between the upper and lower regions of the enclosure 210. As shown in Figure 2, the case rack 200 is divided into several sections: PLU, PRU, PLD, and PRD. Section PLU is the upper left region of the case rack 200. Section PRU is the upper right region of the case rack 200. Section PLD is the lower left region of the case rack 200. Section PRD is the lower right region of the case rack 200.

[0021] Multiple opening / closing doors 240 are positioned at the front of the enclosure 210 and are configured to open and close the front of the enclosure 210. Each of the multiple opening / closing doors 240 can open and close the front of the case rack 200. The multiple opening / closing doors 240 can individually open and close multiple compartments PLU, PRU, PLD, and PRD. Specifically, a pair of opening / closing doors 240 are provided in the upper and lower regions of the enclosure 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 opening / closing door 240 on the right side, as viewed from the front, is not shown.

[0022] The opening / closing door 240 is configured to be switchable between a locked state and an unlocked state. Specifically, the locking unit 260 locks the opening / closing door 240 in the closed state. The locking unit 260 is electrically connected to the control unit, which will be described later. Multiple locking units 260 are provided, with one-to-one correspondence to multiple opening / closing doors 240.

[0023] 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.

[0024] For example, as shown in Figure 2, in compartments PRU and PRD that are open by one of the open doors 240, multiple cases 300 can be manually inserted and removed. In compartments PLU and PLD that are closed by one of the closed doors 240, multiple cases 300 cannot be manually inserted and removed.

[0025] Multiple first open / close detection units 251 detect the open / closed state of multiple open / closed doors 240 in a one-to-one correspondence. Each of the multiple first open / close detection units 251 is, for example, a door switch.

[0026] Multiple second open / close detection units 250 detect the open / closed state of multiple open / closed doors 240 in a one-to-one correspondence. The second open / close detection units 250 are electrically connected to a control unit, which will be described later. Each of the multiple second open / close detection units 250 is, for example, a door switch.

[0027] 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.

[0028] 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.

[0029] The mounting section 130 is capable of holding the first drug and is provided for inserting and removing the first drug. In this embodiment, the first drug is housed in a case 300. A selection case 300a, chosen from a plurality of cases 300, can be placed on the mounting section 130. The mounting section 130 is provided for inserting and removing the first drug from the selection case 300a.

[0030] In 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. 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.

[0031] The mounting section 130 is configured to be retractable in the front-to-back direction relative to the housing 110 through the opening 111. That is, the mounting section 130 is connected to the outside through the openable and closable opening 111. Note that the mounting section 130 does not necessarily have to be configured to be retractable; in this case, an opening is formed in the part of the housing 110 located above the mounting section 130, allowing the drug to be inserted into and removed from the selection case 300a. In this embodiment, five mounting sections 130 are arranged side by side in the left-to-right direction, but the number of mounting sections 130 is not limited to five; at least one is sufficient.

[0032] The dispensing table 120 is configured to accommodate trays or other items capable of holding medications. The dispensing table 120 is located around the mounting section 130, and in this embodiment, it 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 in the vertical direction. 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.

[0033] 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.

[0034] 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.

[0035] 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 and the mounting section 130. 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. The lower storage space 140 is a second storage section, and stores a second pharmaceutical of a different type from the first pharmaceutical in a way that allows for manual insertion and removal. The second storage section may also store a medicine box that contains the second pharmaceutical. The second pharmaceutical includes various pharmaceuticals. For example, the second pharmaceutical is a pharmaceutical that is prescribed more frequently than the first pharmaceutical.

[0036] 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 table 120 and the mounting section 130. 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. The upper storage space 150 is not necessarily formed. The upper storage space 150 is a second storage section, and stores a second pharmaceutical in a way that allows it to be manually inserted and removed.

[0037] Furthermore, a second storage area may be provided, which is a side storage space (not shown) located to the side of the mounting section 130. The side storage space can store other cases that differ in shape or size from case 300, or pharmaceuticals, etc. The side storage space stores the second pharmaceuticals so that they can be manually inserted and removed. The side storage space is located, for example, to the right of the dispensing counter unit 100 shown in Figure 2, and is provided to the right of the five mounting sections 130. In this way, the second storage area is provided around the mounting section 130. The second storage area is provided above, below, and to the side of the mounting section 130, at least one of these locations.

[0038] The display unit 160 is formed on the front of the housing 110, above the opening 111. The display unit 160 lights up when a selection case 300a is placed on the mounting unit 130, thereby indicating that a selection case 300a is placed on the mounting unit 130. Multiple display units 160 are provided, with one-to-one correspondence to multiple mounting units 130.

[0039] The touch panel 170 is an image display unit that displays images. 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.

[0040] The touch panel 170 can display patient prescription information and accept selection operations to choose any case 300 from multiple cases 300. The touch panel 170 is electrically connected to the control unit.

[0041] The code reader 180, which is the reading unit, 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 medications. The code reader 180 is electrically connected to the control unit.

[0042] 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.

[0043] 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.

[0044] 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 green when the drug supply device 1 is functioning normally and orange when the drug supply device 1 is malfunctioning. The indicator light 161 is electrically connected to the control unit.

[0045] 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 on the rear side of each of the case rack 200 and the dispensing counter unit 100. The transport unit 400 transports the selected case 300a between the case rack 200 and the mounting section 130. That is, the transport unit 400 transports the first drug between the first storage section and the mounting section 130. The transport unit 400 transports the first drug based on prescription data, which will be described later. In this embodiment, the transport unit 400 transports the first drug contained in the case 300. The transport unit 400 can sequentially place multiple selected cases 300a selected from multiple cases 300 onto multiple mounting sections 130 one by one from the case rack 200.

[0046] 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. In other words, the horizontal movement mechanism 500 and the vertical movement mechanism 600 are the drive mechanisms for the transport unit 400. Each of the transport unit 400, the horizontal movement mechanism 500, and the vertical movement mechanism 600 is electrically connected to the control unit. Each of the horizontal movement mechanism 500 and the vertical movement mechanism 600 is, for example, a belt drive mechanism.

[0047] 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. The control unit controls the drive of the transport unit 400. The control unit drives the transport unit 400 in the left-right direction by driving the horizontal movement mechanism 500. The control unit drives the transport unit 400 in the up-down direction by driving the vertical movement mechanism 600.

[0048] 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.

[0049] 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.

[0050] 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.

[0051] As shown in Figure 4, an identification code 350, which is an information-carrying section, is attached to the rear surface of each of the multiple cases 300. The identification code 350 is a code for identifying each individual case 300. The identification code 350 may be, for example, a barcode, QR code (registered trademark), or Chameleon Code (registered trademark). In this way, each of the multiple cases 300 is provided with an information-carrying section that carries identification information. The case identification information carried by the identification code 350 is pre-associated with drug identification information for identifying the drug contained in the case 300. Note that the identification information carried by the identification code 350 may also be drug identification information of the drug contained in the case 300 to which the identification code 350 is attached.

[0052] 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.

[0053] 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.

[0054] 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.

[0055] 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.

[0056] 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.

[0057] 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.

[0058] A pair of projections 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 projections 313 are formed on both sides in the left-right direction of the upper surface of the rear wall portion 310r of the case body 310. The upper surface of each of the pair of projections 313 is inclined to be positioned upward as it moves forward.

[0059] 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.

[0060] 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.

[0061] 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.

[0062] 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.

[0063] 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.

[0064] 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 extended. 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 below on the rear side of the area around the mounting section in one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 13 is a perspective view from above of a dispensing counter unit according to one embodiment of the present invention, showing the mounting section removed. Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view of the area around the mounting section in Figure 11, viewed in the direction of the XIV-XIV arrow. Figure 15 is a side view of a dispensing counter unit according to one embodiment of the present invention, showing the mounting section extended. Figure 16 is a side view of a dispensing counter unit according to one embodiment of the present invention, showing the selection case removed from the extended mounting section.

[0065] 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.

[0066] As shown in Figures 10, 15, and 16, when the mounting section 130 is extended and positioned furthest forward, its front end is inclined so that it is lower than its rear end. The front end of the mounting section 130 is the wall section 132, and the rear end of the mounting section 130 is the rear end of the base section 131. When the mounting section 130 is extended, the opening 111 is open.

[0067] As shown in Figure 15, the mounting section 130 with the opening 111 open is configured such that the selection case 300a on which it is mounted prevents foreign matter from entering from the outside through the opening 111. Specifically, the selection case 300a, which is pulled out and placed on the mounting section 130 with the opening 111 open, prevents linear communication between the inside and outside of the drug supply device 1 through the opening 111.

[0068] As shown in Figures 11 and 12, the base portion 131 has a flat plate shape. As shown in Figure 12, 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 12, 14 to 16, 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.

[0069] As shown in Figure 11, a handle 132a is formed at the bottom of the wall portion 132. The mounting portion 130 can be pulled out by placing your hand on the handle 132a and pulling.

[0070] 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.

[0071] 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.

[0072] As shown in Figures 12, 14 to 16, 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 projection 132d extending in the left-right direction is formed on the upper part of the rear surface of the wall portion 132. The lower surface of the projection 132d is a flat surface.

[0073] As shown in Figures 13, 14 to 16, a first proximity sensor 10, a second proximity sensor 13, a position detection sensor 11, an electromagnet 12, a guide rail 113, a support roller 114, a contact part 115, and a pressing roller 116 are provided around the mounting section 130 of the dispensing counter unit 100. Each of the first proximity sensor 10, the position detection sensor 11, the electromagnet 12, and the second proximity sensor 13 is electrically connected to the control unit.

[0074] The first proximity sensor 10 detects that the selection case 300a has been placed on the mounting section 130. The first 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.

[0075] The second proximity sensor 13 detects whether or not a selection case 300a is placed on the extended mounting section 130. The second proximity sensor 13 is positioned below the opening 131h of the base section 131 when the mounting section 130 is extended, and detects the presence or absence of the selection case 300a on the base section 131 through the opening 131h.

[0076] 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. When the position detection sensor 11 does not detect the dog 131a, the opening 111 is in an open state. The position detection sensor 11 is an extension detection unit that detects when the mounting portion 130 has been extended. In this embodiment, the position detection sensor 11 is a microphotosensor, but is not limited to this, and may be a limit switch, for example.

[0077] The electromagnet 12 can be locked to prevent the mounting section 130 from moving. Specifically, when current is supplied to the electromagnet 12, it attracts the attracted portion 131p located at the bottom of the base section 131, thereby locking the mounting section 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 section 130 is released. With this configuration, each of the five mounting sections 130 can be individually switched between a state where drugs can be inserted into and removed from the selected case 300a on which it is mounted, and a state where it cannot.

[0078] 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.

[0079] As shown in Figures 13 to 16, the support roller 114 acts as a pivot point when 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 support roller 114 is rotatably supported at a position behind the lower part of the opening 111.

[0080] 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 support roller 114 as the pivot point.

[0081] As shown in Figure 15, the contact portion 115 is located above the rear portion of the selection case 300a that is placed on the mounting portion 130 when it is pulled out and in its foremost position. When the mounting portion 130 is pulled out and tilted, the momentum causes the rear portion of the selection case 300a placed on the mounting portion 130 to lift up, and the contact portion 115 comes into contact with the rear portion of the selection case 300a, thereby holding the selection case 300a on the mounting portion 130. Specifically, the contact portion 115 is provided on the housing 110 and is positioned above 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.

[0082] As shown in Figures 13 to 16, the press roller 116 is rotatably supported above the support roller 114. The base portion 131 is sandwiched between the press roller 116 and the support roller 114, and the press roller 116 rolls and makes contact with the base portion 131 while the mounting portion 130 is pulled out.

[0083] The selection case 300a, which is placed on the mounting section 130, is held in a removable manner on the mounting section 130 by the projection 132d pressing down on the upper surface of the front end of the selection case 300a when the mounting section 130 is inclined, and by the contact portion 115 positioned at a distance from the rear part of the selection case 300a. In this way, when the opening 111 is open on the mounting section 130 on which the selection case 300a is placed, it is possible to put medicine into and take out of the selection case 300a, and the selection case 300a can be removed from the mounting section 130.

[0084] When the selection case 300a is removed from the mounting section 130 to the outside in the open state described above, neither the first proximity sensor 10 nor the second proximity sensor 13 detects the selection case 300a. On the other hand, when the selection case 300a is on the mounting section 130 in the open state described above, at least one of the first proximity sensor 10 and the second proximity sensor 13 detects the selection case 300a. That is, when both the first proximity sensor 10 and the second proximity sensor 13 no longer detect the selection case 300a in the open state described above, it is detected that the selection case 300a has been removed from the mounting section 130 to the outside. Thus, the first proximity sensor 10 and the second proximity sensor 13 are removal detection units that detect whether or not the selection case 300a has been removed from the mounting section 130 to the outside in the open state described above.

[0085] Here, the configuration of the transport unit 400 will be described. Figure 17 is a perspective view from the front of the transport unit according to one embodiment of the present invention, with the claw portion retracted. Figure 18 is a perspective view of the state in Figure 17 from the direction of arrow XVIII. Figure 19 is a perspective view from the front of the transport unit according to one embodiment of the present invention, with the claw portion advanced. Figure 20 is a perspective view of the transport unit in Figure 19 from the direction of arrow XX. In Figure 19, the state in which the claw portion 450 has rotated to rise is shown, and in Figure 20, the state in which the claw portion 450 has fallen down is shown.

[0086] As shown in Figures 17 to 20, 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, a position-grabbing code reader 470, and a stopper portion 490. The claw portion 450, the push plate 460, the code reader 470, and the stopper portion 490 are configured to move together in the front-rear direction inside the housing 410. Specifically, the claw portion 450, the push plate 460, the code reader 470, and the stopper portion 490 are configured to move in the front-rear direction by a feed screw mechanism.

[0087] 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.

[0088] 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.

[0089] 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.

[0090] 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.

[0091] 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.

[0092] 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.

[0093] The abutment portion 490 is configured to abut against the guard, which will be described later. The abutment portion 490 is located above the push plate 460, but in front of the push plate 460.

[0094] Here, the configuration of the shelf section 220 of the case rack 200 will be described. Figure 21 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a selection case stored in the case rack. Figure 22 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the two-tiered shelf section. Figure 23 is a perspective view showing the configuration of the stopper and guard. Figure 24 is a plan view showing the configuration of the stopper and guard. Figure 25 is a rear view showing the configuration of the stopper and guard. Figure 26 is a cross-sectional view of the stopper and guard in Figure 25, viewed from the direction of the arrow XXVI-XXVI. Figure 27 is a perspective view of a selection case stored in the case rack. In Figure 21, the rear of the selection case 300a is shown in a raised state.

[0095] As shown in Figures 21 to 27, the shelf portion 220 of the case rack 200 is provided with a stopper 223 and a guard 224. 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. The stopper 223 also 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. The guard 224 prevents each of the multiple cases 300 from going over the stopper 223 when each of the multiple cases 300 is inserted into the case rack 200 from the front.

[0096] Specifically, the stopper 223 and the guard 224 are each rotatably supported on a support plate 225. The support plate 225 is attached to the underside of the shelf portion 220. The support plate 225 supports the pivot axis 226 of the stopper 223 and the pivot axis 228 of the guard 224. The stopper 223 is biased upward by a torsion spring 227 attached to the pivot axis 226.

[0097] The guard 224 is supported by a pivot shaft 228 so as to hang down under its own weight. The guard 224 is configured to be displaceable to a second position by rotating forward from a first position where it is hanging down. At the lower part of the guard 224 when it is hanging down, there is a contact surface portion 224b that can contact the respective protrusions 313 of the multiple cases 300 from above. The contact surface portion 224b is inclined so as it moves forward when the guard 224 is in the first position, it is positioned upward.

[0098] As shown in Figure 27, 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.

[0099] 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 torsion spring 227 in the direction of protruding from the opening 222.

[0100] 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.

[0101] As shown in Figure 21, when a case 300 is placed into the case rack 200 from the front, and the rear of the case 300 lifts up, the contact surface portion 224b of the guard 224 in the first position comes into contact with the protruding portion 313 of the case 300, thereby preventing the case 300 from going over the stopper 223. In other words, the guard 224 in the first position prevents each of the multiple cases 300 from going over the stopper 223.

[0102] 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-rear direction. At this time, the guard 224 is displaced to the second position, as will be described later.

[0103] Here, we will describe the operation of the transport unit 400 when it takes in and supports the selected case 300a from the case rack 200. With the claw portion 450 retracted, the transport unit 400 moves along the rear of the case rack 200 and stops at a position behind the selected case 300a.

[0104] Figure 28 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view showing the forward position of the claw portion of the transport unit located behind the selected case stored in the case rack.

[0105] As shown in Figure 28, as the claw portion 450 moves forward, it is positioned below the engaging portion 318 of the selection case 300a. At this time, the abutment portion 490 abuts against the guard 224. The guard 224, abutting against the abutment portion 490, rotates forward around the pivot axis 228 and is displaced to the second position. In other words, when the transport unit 400 pulls the selection case 300a stored in the case rack 200 to the rear of the case rack 200, it displaces the guard 224 from the first position to the second position.

[0106] When the guard 224 is displaced to the second position, it is separated from the protruding portion 313 of the selection case 300a, and at this time, the selection case 300a can pass over the stopper 223. Thus, the guard 224 is configured to be displaceable between a first position that restricts each of the multiple cases 300 from going over the stopper 223 and a second position that allows the selection case 300a to pass over the stopper 223. In other words, the guard 224 is configured so that when the transport unit 400 pulls the selection case 300a stored in the case rack 200 to the rear of the case rack 200, the selection case 300a can pass over the stopper 223.

[0107] Figure 29 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a transport unit located behind a selection case stored in a case rack, with the claw portion rotated to the upward position. As shown in Figure 29, when the claw portion 450 rotates to the upward position, the claw portion 450 engages with the inner surface of the engaging portion 318 of the selection case 300a.

[0108] 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 29, 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.

[0109] Figure 30 is a 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 30, when the lead screw mechanism 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 hardly protrudes from the opening 222.

[0110] As described above, when the transport unit 400 pulls the selection case 300a stored in the case rack 200 to the rear of the case rack 200, it abuts the abutment portion 490 against the guard 224 to displace it to the second position, and then pulls the selection case 300a to the rear of the case rack 200. Also, when the transport unit 400 pulls 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.

[0111] Figure 31 is a front-view perspective of the transport unit in the state where the claw portion that has engaged with the inner surface of the engagement portion of the selected case has finished retracting. Figure 32 is a perspective view of the transport unit of Figure 31 from the direction of arrow XXXII.

[0112] 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.

[0113] As shown in Figures 31 and 32, 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.

[0114] Figure 33 is a front view of the pair of support arms in the retracted position, as seen from the front. Figure 34 is a side view of the pair of support arms in the retracted position, as seen from the direction of arrow XXXIV.

[0115] 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 33 and 34. 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.

[0116] Here, the operation for taking out or replenishing drugs in the drug supply device 1 according to this embodiment will be described. The drug supply device 1 according to this embodiment can be selectively switched between a first mode and a second mode.

[0117] In the first mode, the transport unit 400 can transport the selection case 300a. That is, in the first mode, medication can be taken out or replenished in front of the dispensing counter unit 100. Only in the first mode can medication be added to and removed from the selection case 300a placed on the mounting section 130.

[0118] In the second mode, the transport unit 400 is stopped, and multiple cases 300 can be manually taken in and out of the case rack 200. In other words, in the second mode, the medication can be taken out or replenished in front of the case rack 200. Only in the second mode can medication be taken in and out of the multiple cases 300 stored in the case rack 200.

[0119] First, an example of an operation for taking out or replenishing medication in front of the dispensing counter unit 100 in the medication 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 medication supply device according to this embodiment. As shown in Figure 35, the medication supply device 1 includes a control unit 90. The control unit 90 includes an inventory quantity tracking unit 91 and a recording unit 94, which will be described later.

[0120] 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.

[0121] 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 5.

[0122] 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.

[0123] 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. Then, the pair of support arms 440 rotate to release the support of the selection case 300a, and a portion of the bottom 310b 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 portion 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.

[0124] When the first 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.

[0125] 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.

[0126] 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, which is stored in the storage unit 92 of the control unit 90.

[0127] Next, an example of an operation for removing or replenishing medication in front of the case rack 200 in the drug supply device 1 according to this embodiment will be described.

[0128] 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.

[0129] 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.

[0130] Therefore, in the drug supply device 1 according to this embodiment, when the code reader 470 is switched from the second mode to the first mode, it is driven to determine the storage positions of the multiple cases 300 in the case rack 200. Specifically, the transport unit 400 moves behind the case rack 200 along the arrangement of the multiple cases 300 in 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.

[0131] Furthermore, the code reader 470 may determine the storage positions of multiple cases 300 in the case rack 200 by moving along the arrangement of multiple cases 300 only in the compartments where an open / closed door 240 has been detected in an open state by multiple second open / closed detection units 250, and where the storage positions of multiple cases 300 in that compartment are not yet known. In this case, the code reader 470 will not determine the storage positions of multiple cases 300 in compartments that are closed by an open / closed door 240. Also, the code reader 470 will not determine the storage positions of multiple cases 300 in compartments where an open / closed door 240 has been detected in an open state, and where the storage positions of multiple cases 300 have already been determined after the detection of the open state, and where the open state has not been detected again.

[0132] The storage positions of the multiple cases 300 that have been identified are stored in the memory unit 92, and based on this stored information, the selected case 300a is transported during first mode operation. If, after the storage positions of the multiple cases 300 in the case rack 200 have been identified, it is determined that the retrieved cases 300 have not been returned to their original positions in the case rack 200, the control unit 90 may display a message on the touch panel 170 instructing the user to return the retrieved cases 300 to their original positions in the case rack 200. Alternatively, the control unit 90 may instruct the transport unit 400 to return the retrieved cases 300 to their original positions in the case rack 200.

[0133] When inserting or removing a case 300 from the front of the case rack 200, the case 300 is normally returned to its original position in the case rack 200. Based on this, when switching from the second mode to the first mode, if the transport unit 400 is instructed to transport the selected case 300a, the code reader 470 may not be driven, and the transport of the selected case 300a by the transport unit 400 may be given priority. In this case, even if the transport unit 400 moves to the storage position of the selected case 300a, the selected case 300a may not be present at that storage position, or another case 300 may be present at that storage position. In that case, a message to that effect will be displayed on the touch panel 170, and the code reader 470 may be driven to understand the storage positions of multiple cases 300 in the case rack 200.

[0134] When inserting or removing a case 300 from the front of the case rack 200, the maintenance of the case 300's position by returning it to its original position within the case rack 200 is sometimes not thoroughly maintained, and sometimes it is thoroughly maintained. If the maintenance of the case 300's position is not thoroughly maintained, it is necessary to inform the control unit 90 of the position of each of the multiple cases 300 within the case rack 200 each time before operating in the first mode. If the maintenance of the case 300's position is thoroughly maintained, it is not necessary to inform the control unit 90 of the position of each of the multiple cases 300 within the case rack 200 each time before operating in the first mode. In this way, taking into account the position maintenance status of the case 300, it may be possible to set whether or not the code reader 470 is driven when switching from the second mode to the first mode.

[0135] Next, an example of the operation when the transport unit 400 transports a selection case 300a placed on a mounting section 130 to the case rack 200 in the drug supply device 1 according to this embodiment will be described. Figure 36 is a flowchart showing the operation when the transport unit transports a selection case placed on a mounting section to the case rack in the drug supply device according to this embodiment.

[0136] As shown in Figure 36, when the transport unit 400 transports a selection case 300a placed on a mounting section 130 to the case rack 200, the control unit 90 first determines whether a completion operation indicating the completion of loading and unloading of the drug into the selection case 300a has been performed (step S1).

[0137] In this embodiment, the completion operation is the operation of returning one of the extended mounting parts 130 to its original position, and can be detected by the position detection sensor 11. The completion operation may also be input by tapping the area corresponding to one of the mounting parts 130 on the display of the touch panel 170. Alternatively, buttons may be provided near each of the multiple mounting parts 130, and the completion operation may be input by pressing the button near one of the mounting parts 130.

[0138] Once the completion operation is performed, the transport unit 400 is set to a transport execution state in which it temporarily holds one selected case 300a in one of the mounting sections 130, and then transports it from the mounting section 130 to the case rack 200.

[0139] In this embodiment, while the transport unit 400 is set to transport execution state, it has one selected case 300a wait at one mounting section 130 for a certain period of time, and then transports it from the mounting section 130 to the case rack 200.

[0140] Specifically, when the completion operation is performed, the control unit 90 sets the transport unit 400 to the transport execution state. Next, the control unit 90 determines whether a certain amount of time has elapsed since the completion operation was performed (step S2). If a certain amount of time has elapsed since the completion operation was performed, the control unit 90 instructs the transport unit 400 to transport one selected case 300a to the case rack 200 (step S3).

[0141] If a certain amount of time has not elapsed since the completion operation was performed, the control unit 90 determines whether an initiation operation indicating the start of dispensing medication to or from the other selection case 300a has been performed (step S4). This initiation operation is an operation in which the other mounting section 130 on which the other selection case 300a is placed is pulled out, and can be detected by the position detection sensor 11.

[0142] If a start operation is performed for another selection case 300a, the control unit 90 causes the transport unit 400 to transport one selection case 300a to the case rack 200 (step S3). In this case, when a completion operation is performed indicating the completion of loading and unloading of a drug into one of the multiple selection cases 300a, the transport unit 400 temporarily holds the one selection case 300a in one of the multiple mounting units 130 until a start operation is performed indicating the start of loading and unloading of a drug into another selection case 300a, and then transports it from the mounting unit 130 to the case rack 200.

[0143] If no start operation has been performed for any of the other selection cases 300a, the control unit 90 determines whether or not a cancellation operation has been performed (step S5). If the mounting unit 130 is not locked and can be pulled out while the one selection case 300a is temporarily waiting on the one mounting unit 130, the cancellation operation may be an operation to pull out the one mounting unit 130 again. The cancellation operation may also be input by tapping the area corresponding to the one mounting unit 130 on the display of the touch panel 170. Alternatively, buttons may be provided near each of the multiple mounting units 130, and the cancellation operation may be input by pressing the button near the one mounting unit 130.

[0144] If a cancellation operation is performed, the process returns to step S1, and the transport unit 400 is released from transport execution. In other words, if a cancellation operation is performed to cancel a completion operation while one selection case 300a is temporarily waiting at one of the placement sections 130, the transport unit 400 is released from transport execution. If no cancellation operation is performed, the process returns to step S2.

[0145] If no start operation has been performed for any of the other selection cases 300a, the control unit 90 may further determine before process S5 whether the transport unit 400 has reached one of the mounting sections 130. If the transport unit 400 has reached one of the mounting sections 130, the process may proceed to S3. If the transport unit 400 has not reached one of the mounting sections 130, the process may proceed to S5. In this way, one selection case 300a may be kept waiting at one of the mounting sections 130 until the transport unit 400 reaches one of the mounting sections 130.

[0146] Furthermore, if the housing 110 is provided with a shutter for opening and closing the opening 111, the operation of pulling out the mounting section 130 in the above start operation and the above cancel operation can be changed to an operation to open the shutter, and the above completion operation can be changed to an operation to close the shutter.

[0147] Next, an example of the operation when dispensing drugs based on multiple prescription data in the drug supply device 1 according to this embodiment will be described. Figure 37 is a diagram showing a state in an example of the drug supply device according to this embodiment in which the transport unit has transported one selection case containing one drug to be supplied as included in the first prescription data to one placement unit.

[0148] As shown in Figure 37, when the transport unit 400 has transported a selection case 300a containing one of the drugs to be supplied as included in the first prescription data to a mounting unit 130, the display unit 160 corresponding to the mounting unit 130 lights up, the mounting unit 130 is unlocked, and the drug can be inserted into or removed from the selection case 300a. The mounting unit 130 is the first mounting unit 130 located from the left.

[0149] Figure 38 shows an example of a drug supply device according to this embodiment, in which the transport unit transports another selection case containing other drugs to be supplied, which are included in the first prescription data, to another mounting unit.

[0150] As shown in Figure 38, when the transport unit 400 has transported another selection case 300a containing other drugs to be supplied as included in the first prescription data to another mounting unit 130, the display unit 160 corresponding to the other mounting unit 130 lights up, the other mounting unit 130 is unlocked, and drugs can be loaded into and removed from the other selection case 300a. The other mounting unit 130 is the second mounting unit 130 from the left.

[0151] If the first prescription data contains two types of drugs to be supplied, as shown in Figure 38, after the selection cases 300a containing each of the drugs to be supplied in the first prescription data are transported from the case rack 200 to two mounting sections 130, there will be three specific mounting sections 130 in which no selection cases 300a are placed. These three specific mounting sections 130 are the third to fifth mounting sections 130 from the left.

[0152] Figure 39 shows an example of a drug supply device according to this embodiment, in which the transport unit sequentially transports the selected cases containing the drugs to be supplied, as included in the second prescription data, to the designated placement unit.

[0153] As shown in Figure 39, the transport unit 400 transports the selection cases 300a, each containing a drug to be supplied as included in the first prescription data, from the case rack 200 to two mounting sections 130. If there is a specific mounting section 130 in the five mounting sections 130 where no selection cases 300a are placed, the transport unit 400 transports at least one selection case 300a, each containing a drug to be supplied as included in the second prescription data, from the case rack 200 to the specific mounting section 130.

[0154] The specific placement unit 130 is kept in a state where it cannot be inserted into or removed from the selection case 300a of the drug to be supplied included in the second prescription data until a completion operation is performed indicating the completion of inserting or removing the drug to or from the selection case 300a of the drug to be supplied included in the first prescription data.

[0155] Therefore, as shown in Figure 39, when the transport unit 400 has transported the selection case 300a containing the drug to be supplied, which is included in the second prescription data, to the specific placement unit 130, the display unit 160 corresponding to the specific placement unit 130 lights up, and the specific placement unit 130 remains locked.

[0156] In the five display units 160, the display units 160 corresponding to the mounting unit 130 on which each selection case 300a containing the drugs to be supplied included in the first prescription data is placed have the same display mode, while the display units 160 corresponding to the mounting unit 130 on which each selection case 300a containing the drugs to be supplied included in the second prescription data is placed have different display modes.

[0157] For example, the display units 160 corresponding to the first and second mounting units 130 from the left, where the selection cases 300a containing the drugs to be supplied as included in the first prescription data are placed, emit blue light, while the display units 160 corresponding to the third to fifth mounting units 130 from the left, where the selection cases 300a containing the drugs to be supplied as included in the second prescription data are placed, emit green light.

[0158] Figure 40 shows an example of a drug supply device according to this embodiment, in which the transport unit transports a selection case containing one drug to be supplied, which is included in the first prescription data, from a mounting unit to a case rack.

[0159] When the completion operation is performed for one selection case 300a of one drug to be supplied, as shown in Figure 40, the transport unit 400 transports the selection case 300a from the one mounting section 130 to the case rack 200. As a result, the display unit 160 corresponding to the one mounting section 130 turns off, and the one mounting section 130 is locked.

[0160] Figure 41 shows an example of a drug supply device according to this embodiment, in which the transport unit transports another selection case containing other drugs to be supplied, which are included in the first prescription data, from another mounting section to the case rack.

[0161] When the completion operation is performed for other selection cases 300a of other drugs to be supplied included in the first prescription data, the transport unit 400 transports the other selection cases 300a from the other mounting section 130 to the case rack 200, as shown in Figure 41. As a result, the display unit 160 corresponding to the other mounting section 130 turns off, and the other mounting section 130 is locked.

[0162] When the loading and unloading operations for all the medications to be loaded and unloaded from the loading section 130 of the first prescription data are completed, the locks on the three loading sections 130 on which the

[0163] Furthermore, in the five mounting sections 130, the mounting section 130 on which the selection case 300a is mounted may be switched to a state where the drug can be inserted or removed one by one in an alternate manner. An example of this operation is described below.

[0164] Figure 42 shows a first modified example of the drug supply device according to this embodiment, in which the transport unit transports a selection case containing one drug to be supplied, which is included in the first prescription data, to a placement unit.

[0165] As shown in Figure 42, when the transport unit 400 has transported a selection case 300a containing one of the drugs to be supplied as included in the first prescription data to a mounting unit 130, the display unit 160 corresponding to the mounting unit 130 lights up, the mounting unit 130 is unlocked, and the drug can be inserted into or removed from the selection case 300a. The mounting unit 130 is the first mounting unit 130 located from the left.

[0166] Figure 43 shows a first modified example of the drug supply device according to this embodiment, in which the transport unit transports another selection case containing other drugs to be supplied, which are included in the first prescription data, to another mounting unit.

[0167] As shown in Figure 43, when the transport unit 400 has transported another selection case 300a containing other drugs to be supplied as included in the first prescription data to another mounting unit 130, the display unit 160 corresponding to the other mounting unit 130 lights up, and the other mounting unit 130 remains locked. The other mounting unit 130 is the second mounting unit 130 from the left.

[0168] Figure 44 shows a first modified example of the drug supply device according to this embodiment, in which the transport unit sequentially transports the selected cases containing the drugs to be supplied, as included in the second prescription data, to the designated placement unit.

[0169] As shown in Figure 44, the transport unit 400 transports the selection cases 300a, each containing a drug to be supplied as included in the first prescription data, from the case rack 200 to two mounting sections 130. If there is a specific mounting section 130 among the five mounting sections 130 where no selection cases 300a are placed, the transport unit 400 transports at least one selection case 300a, each containing a drug to be supplied as included in the second prescription data, from the case rack 200 to the specific mounting section 130. The specific mounting sections 130 are the mounting sections 3 to 5 from the left.

[0170] The specific placement unit 130 is kept in a state where it cannot be inserted into or removed from the selection case 300a of the drug to be supplied included in the second prescription data until a completion operation is performed indicating the completion of inserting or removing the drug to or from the selection case 300a of the drug to be supplied included in the first prescription data.

[0171] Therefore, as shown in Figure 44, when the transport unit 400 has transported the selection case 300a containing the drug to be supplied, which is included in the second prescription data, to the specific placement unit 130, the display unit 160 corresponding to the specific placement unit 130 lights up, and the specific placement unit 130 remains locked.

[0172] Figure 45 shows a first modified example of the drug supply device according to this embodiment, in which the transport unit transports a selection case containing one drug to be supplied, which is included in the first prescription data, from a mounting unit to a case rack.

[0173] When the completion operation is performed for one selection case 300a of one drug to be supplied, as shown in Figure 45, the transport unit 400 transports the selection case 300a from one mounting section 130 to the case rack 200, and the lock on the other mounting section 130 is released. As a result, the display section 160 corresponding to one mounting section 130 turns off, and one mounting section 130 is locked, making it possible to load and unload drugs into the other selection cases 300a.

[0174] Figure 46 shows a first modified example of the drug supply device according to this embodiment, in which the transport unit transports another selection case containing other drugs to be supplied, which are included in the first prescription data, from another mounting section to the case rack.

[0175] When the completion operation is performed for other selection cases 300a of other drugs to be supplied included in the first prescription data, the transport unit 400 transports the other selection cases 300a from the other mounting section 130 to the case rack 200, as shown in Figure 46. As a result, the display unit 160 corresponding to the other mounting section 130 turns off, and the other mounting section 130 is locked.

[0176] When the loading and unloading operations for all medications included in the first prescription data have been completed for the selection cases 300a of the medications to be loaded and unloaded from the loading section 130, the lock on one of the three loading sections 130 on which the selection cases 300a containing the medications included in the second prescription data are loaded is released. As described above, the loading sections 130 on which the selection cases 300a containing the medications included in one prescription data are loaded are switched to a state where medications can be loaded and unloaded one by one in an alternate manner.

[0177] The display mode of the display unit 160 may be varied to indicate whether or not the mounting unit 130 on which the selection case 300a is placed is unlocked. For example, the display unit 160 corresponding to the mounting unit 130 on which the selection case 300a is placed but is not unlocked may be lit up, while the display unit 160 corresponding to the mounting unit 130 on which the selection case 300a is placed but is unlocked may be blinked.

[0178] The display mode of the display unit 160 described above may also be displayed on the touch panel 170. Figure 47 is a diagram showing an example of the display on the touch panel of the drug supply device according to this embodiment.

[0179] As shown in Figure 47, the touch panel 170 displays multiple display units corresponding to the arrangement of the multiple mounting units 130. Specifically, the touch panel 170 displays multiple mounting unit areas R130 corresponding to the arrangement of the multiple mounting unit areas R130, and multiple display areas R160 are displayed in a one-to-one correspondence with the multiple mounting unit areas R130.

[0180] Each of the multiple display areas R160 has the same display mode as the display area R160 corresponding to the mounting section 130 on which the selection case 300a containing the drugs to be supplied included in the first prescription data is placed, while the display area R160 corresponding to the mounting section 130 on which the selection case 300a containing the drugs to be supplied included in the second prescription data is placed has a different display mode from each other.

[0181] The touch panel 170 displays a prescription data area RD for displaying multiple prescription data, a selection area RC for selecting prescription data, a mode switching area R400 for switching between the first and second modes, and a completion area RE for inputting a completion operation indicating the completion of loading and unloading of the medication to be supplied included in the prescription data.

[0182] Next, an example of the operation for determining the inventory quantity of drugs in the drug supply device 1 according to this embodiment will be described.

[0183] The inventory quantity tracking unit 91 shown in Figure 35 tracks the inventory quantity of drugs stored in the case rack 200. The inventory quantity tracking unit 91 consists of a storage unit 92 and a computing unit 93. The inventory quantities of drugs stored in the first storage unit and the second storage unit are tracked by a computer (not shown) electrically connected to the control unit 90. In this embodiment, the inventory quantities of drugs stored in the case rack 200, the lower storage space 140, and the upper storage space 150 are tracked by the computer.

[0184] In both the first and second modes, the inventory quantity tracking unit 91 updates the inventory quantity of the supplied drug based on the prescription data when a completion operation is performed indicating the completion of the loading or unloading of the supplied drug included in the prescription data. Specifically, each time a completion operation is performed, the arithmetic unit 93 calculates the inventory quantity by subtracting the quantity of the supplied drug included in the prescription data from the inventory quantity before supply stored in the storage unit 92, and the storage unit 92 stores the calculated inventory quantity and updates the inventory quantity.

[0185] When the drug supply device 1 is in the first mode, the completion operation is the operation of returning the pulled-out mounting section 130 to its original position, which can be detected by the position detection sensor 11. Alternatively, the completion operation may be input by tapping the mounting section area R130 corresponding to the mounting section 130 on the touch panel 170 display. Or, buttons may be provided near each of the multiple mounting sections 130, and the completion operation may be input by pressing the button near the mounting section 130.

[0186] When the drug supply device 1 is in the second mode, the completion operation is entered by tapping the completion area RE on the touch panel 170 shown in Figure 47, with the selection area RC checked and one of the prescription data selected.

[0187] In the second mode, it is possible to perform a completion operation in a single step to indicate the completion of loading and unloading of medications included in multiple prescription data. Specifically, on the touch panel 170 shown in Figure 47, by checking multiple selection areas RC to select multiple prescription data, the completion operation can be performed in a single step by tapping the completion area RE.

[0188] The recording unit 94 shown in Figure 35 records the history of drug dispensing and receiving. The recording unit 94 records prescription data and implementation mode information indicating whether the dispensing and receiving of the drug to be supplied included in this prescription data was carried out in the first mode or the second mode, in association with each other.

[0189] Here, we will describe an example of drive control of the transport unit 400 when the selection case 300a is removed from the mounting section 130 to the outside in the drug supply device 1 according to this embodiment.

[0190] As shown in Figure 16, when the first proximity sensor 10 and the second proximity sensor 13, which are the removal detection units, detect that the selection case 300a has been removed from the mounting unit 130 with the opening 111 open, the control unit 90 stops driving the transport unit 400. That is, when both the first proximity sensor 10 and the second proximity sensor 13 no longer detect the selection case 300a in the open state, the control unit 90 stops driving the transport unit 400. At this time, the control unit 90 stops the horizontal movement mechanism 500 and the vertical movement mechanism 600.

[0191] In this embodiment, the control unit 90 stops driving the transport unit 400 when the position detection sensor 11, which is the pull-out detection unit, detects that the mounting unit 130 has been pulled out, and the first proximity sensor 10 and the second proximity sensor 13, which are the removal detection units, detect that the selection case 300a has been removed from the mounting unit 130 to the outside.

[0192] On the other hand, when the removal detection unit, consisting of the first proximity sensor 10 and the second proximity sensor 13, does not detect that the selection case 300a has been removed from the mounting section 130 in the open state, the control unit 90 continues to drive the transport unit 400. That is, when at least one of the first proximity sensor 10 and the second proximity sensor 13 detects the selection case 300a in the open state, the control unit 90 continues to drive the transport unit 400.

[0193] Here, the power supply system in the drug supply device 1 according to this embodiment will be described. Figure 48 is a power supply system diagram of the drug supply device according to this embodiment. As shown in Figure 48, in the drug supply device 1 according to this embodiment, power is supplied from the commercial power supply 700. The touch panel 170, which is the operation unit, is connected to the commercial power supply 700.

[0194] The first power supply unit 710 is connected to the commercial power supply 700 via a relay 730. The first power supply unit 710 is connected to the horizontal movement mechanism 500 that drives the transport unit 400 in the left-right direction, and to the vertical movement mechanism 600 that drives the transport unit 400 in the up-down direction. In this way, the relay 730 is provided in the power supply path to the drive mechanism of the transport unit 400.

[0195] A second power supply unit 720 is connected to a commercial power supply 700. The second power supply unit 720 is connected to the load unit 740, which is not the horizontal movement mechanism 500 and the vertical movement mechanism 600 that are the drive mechanisms of the transport unit 400. The load unit 740 includes a control unit 90, a code reader 180, a printer 190, a display unit 160, an indicator light 161, a first open / close detection unit 251, a second open / close detection unit 250, and a locking unit 260. The motor that drives the feed screw mechanism in the transport unit 400 may also be included in the load unit 740.

[0196] Figure 49 is an electrical circuit diagram of the portion of the drug supply device according to this embodiment that includes the first open / close detection unit and relay. As shown in Figure 49, the multiple first open / close detection units 251 are connected in series with each other on the input side of the relay 730. A coil is arranged on the input side of the relay 730. When any one of the multiple first open / close detection units 251 detects that the corresponding open / close door 240 is open, the relay 730 cuts off the power supply path to the drive mechanism of the transport unit 400. As shown in Figure 48, since the load unit 740 is connected to the second power supply unit 720, power supply to the load unit 740 is maintained even when at least one open / close door 240 is open.

[0197] Here, an example of safety assurance operations performed by the control unit 90 while the transport unit 400 is in operation will be described. Figure 50 is a flowchart showing the safety assurance operations performed by the control unit while the transport unit is in operation in the drug supply device according to this embodiment.

[0198] As shown in Figure 50, while the transport unit 400 is in operation, the control unit 90 determines whether the second opening / closing detection unit 250 has detected an open state of the opening / closing door 240 (step S11). When at least one second opening / closing detection unit 250 detects an open state of at least one opening / closing door 240, the control unit 90 stops driving the transport unit 400 (step S12). That is, when at least one second opening / closing detection unit 250 detects an open state of at least one opening / closing door 240, the control unit 90 stops the horizontal movement mechanism 500 and the vertical movement mechanism 600.

[0199] After stopping the drive of the transport unit 400, the control unit 90 releases the lock on the opening / closing door 240 by the locking unit 260 (step S13). This prevents the locking unit 260 from preventing the opening / closing door 240 from being closed if the locking unit 260 is partially locked while the door is open.

[0200] Next, the control unit 90 determines whether all of the open / closed doors 240 have been detected in the closed state by all of the second open / closed detection units 250 (step S14). After confirming that all of the open / closed doors 240 are in the closed state, the control unit 90 causes the locking unit 260 to lock the open / closed doors 240 (step S15).

[0201] After locking the opening / closing door 240 into the locking unit 260, the control unit 90 restarts the drive of the transport unit 400 (step S16). In this way, when the control unit 90 starts driving the transport unit 400, it locks the opening / closing door 240 into the locking unit 260 in the closed position.

[0202] As described above, in the drug supply device 1 according to this embodiment, when at least one opening / closing door 240 is opened, the power supply to the drive mechanism of the transport unit 400 is stopped, and the drive of the transport unit 400 is stopped by the control unit 90.

[0203] Furthermore, the case rack 200 may be provided with a position detection unit that detects whether each of the multiple cases 300 is located behind a specified position. The specified position is the placement position of the case 300 in the case rack 200 that allows the transport unit 400 to stably pull out the case 300 when the transport unit 400 transports the case 300. Now, a second modified example of the drug supply device according to this embodiment, which is provided with a position detection unit, will be described.

[0204] Figure 51 is a rear view of a case rack of a second modified example of the drug supply device according to this embodiment. Figure 52 is a side view of the case rack of Figure 51 as seen from the direction of arrow LII. Figure 52 shows the case 300 in a specified position.

[0205] As shown in Figures 51 and 52, the case rack 200a of the second modified example of the drug supply device according to this embodiment is provided with a position detection unit 270 that detects whether each of the multiple cases 300 is located behind a specified position. In this modified example, the position detection unit 270 includes a photoelectric sensor 271 and a reflector 272. The photoelectric sensor 271 includes an illumination unit that irradiates light onto the reflector 272 and a light receiving unit that receives the light reflected from the reflector 272. The position detection unit 270 is electrically connected to the control unit 90.

[0206] The position detection unit 270 is arranged along the vertical arrangement of the multiple cases 300. However, the position detection unit 270 may also be arranged along the horizontal arrangement of the multiple cases 300.

[0207] The position detection unit 270 detects whether each of the multiple cases 300 is located behind the specified position by transmitting and receiving light that passes behind the specified position. Specifically, the position detection unit 270 detects that each of the multiple cases 300 arranged along the optical path is not located behind the specified position when the light emitted from the irradiation part of the photoelectric sensor 271 and reflected by the reflector 272 is detected by the light receiving part. On the other hand, the position detection unit 270 detects that at least one of the multiple cases 300 arranged along the optical path is located behind the specified position and is blocking the light when the light receiving part of the photoelectric sensor 271 does not detect the light emitted from the irradiation part.

[0208] When the position detection unit 270 detects the presence of a case 300 located behind a predetermined position among the multiple cases 300, the control unit 90 stops the vertical and horizontal driving of the transport unit 400. In other words, when at least one position detection unit 270 detects that at least one case 300 is located behind a predetermined position, the control unit 90 stops the horizontal movement mechanism 500 and the vertical movement mechanism 600.

[0209] In this modified example, the case rack 200a does not necessarily have to be provided with the stopper 223 and the guard 224.

[0210] Figure 53 is a perspective view showing the lower part of the case rack of a second modified example of the drug supply device according to this embodiment in a pulled-out state. Figure 54 is a side view of the case rack of Figure 53 as seen from the direction of arrow LIV. In Figure 54, some of the components located on the right side of the case rack 200a are shown in perspective.

[0211] As shown in Figures 53 and 54, the lower part 280 of the case rack 200a in the second modified example of the drug supply device according to this embodiment is provided so as to be retractable forward from the main body of the case rack 200a. Specifically, the lower part 280 of the case rack 200a is movable in the front-rear direction by a slide rail 281.

[0212] The lower part 280 of the case rack 200a includes an opening / closing door 240 and a shelf section 220, etc., located in the lower region of the enclosure 210. A circuit board 290 is provided in the lower part 280 of the case rack 200a. The circuit board 290 is located at the top of the lower part 280 of the case rack 200a and is covered by a cover. The circuit board 290 is electrically connected to the first opening / closing detection unit 251, the second opening / closing detection unit 252, and the locking unit 260, each of which are located in the lower part 280 of the case rack 200a, through wiring (not shown). The circuit board 290 can perform detection monitoring of the first opening / closing detection unit 251 and the second opening / closing detection unit 252, and the opening and closing operation of the locking unit 260.

[0213] The circuit board 290 is electrically connected to the control unit 90 through a drawer connector 291 provided on the lower part 280 of the case rack 200a and a drawer connector 292 provided on the main body of the case rack 200a. In other words, when the lower part 280 of the case rack 200a, which had been pulled out, is returned to the main body of the case rack 200a, the drawer connector 291 and the drawer connector 292 connect to each other, thereby electrically connecting the circuit board 290 to the control unit 90.

[0214] The circuit board 290 may be located in a different place from the lower part of the case rack 200a, for example, on the main body of the case rack 200a. In this case, the first open / close detection unit 251, the second open / close detection unit 252, and the locking unit 260, each located in the lower part 280 of the case rack 200a, are electrically connected to the circuit board 290 through the drawer connector 291 located in the lower part 280 of the case rack 200a and the drawer connector 292 located on the main body of the case rack 200a.

[0215] The following describes the display and operation procedures of the touch panel, which is an image display unit provided in the drug supply device according to this embodiment.

[0216] Figure 55 shows the initial screen of the prescription screen displayed on the touch panel of the drug supply device according to this embodiment. As shown in Figure 55, the prescription screen P1 displayed on the touch panel 170 of the drug supply device according to this embodiment displays a prescription data area RD, a selection area RC, a status area RS, a mode switching area R400, an unprocessed area RB, a processed area RA, a case recall area RF, a filling area RG, an instruction selection area RN, multiple mounting area R130, and multiple display areas R160.

[0217] The prescription data area RD displays information that identifies the prescription data. For example, the patient name is displayed in the prescription data area RD. The mode switching area R400 displays, for example, "Operating" when in mode 1, and "Paused" when in mode 2.

[0218] The prescription status of each of the multiple prescription data is displayed. For example, the status area RS displays "Waiting for instruction" when the instruction to start prescription processing has not yet been entered, "Waiting for dispensing" when the instruction to start prescription processing has been entered and the selection case 300a containing the target drugs included in the prescription data has not yet been transported from the case rack 200 to the mounting unit 130, "Dispensed" when the selection case 300a containing the target drugs included in the prescription data has been transported from the case rack 200 to the mounting unit 130, "Processed" when the prescription processing of the target drugs included in the prescription data has been completed, and "Pending" when the prescription processing of the target drugs included in the prescription data is pending.

[0219] The Unprocessed Area RB is a selection button for displaying an unprocessed list of multiple prescription data entered sequentially. The Processed Area RA is a selection button for displaying a processed list of multiple prescription data instructed sequentially. The Case Call Area RF is a selection button for displaying a case call screen for individually selecting cases to be transported to the loading unit 130 from among multiple cases stored in the case rack 200. The Filling Area RG is a selection button for displaying a case call screen for individually selecting cases to be transported to the loading unit 130 and filled with medication from among multiple cases stored in the case rack 200.

[0220] The instruction selection area RN displays multiple selection buttons for selecting instructions related to prescription processing. The instruction selection area RN also displays selection buttons for manual mode, where prescription processing is performed manually, and automatic mode, where it is performed automatically. When manual mode is selected, it displays "Manual," and when automatic mode is selected, it displays "Automatic." In manual mode, the status of the entered prescription data becomes "waiting for instructions," and the operator can select the prescription data to process from the prescription data in the waiting for instructions state. In automatic mode, the status of the entered prescription data becomes "waiting for dispensing."

[0221] The instruction selection area RN selectively displays buttons such as a "Hold" button to postpone prescription processing, a "Picked" button to delete prescription data while deducting drug inventory, and a "Delete" button to delete prescription data without deducting drug inventory.

[0222] The mounting area R130 and the display area R160, which correspond to each other, are collectively referred to as the mounting area display area. In other words, multiple mounting area display areas, which correspond one-to-one with multiple mounting areas 130, are displayed on the touch panel 170, which is the image display unit.

[0223] Figure 56 shows the prescription screen displayed on the touch panel of the drug supply device according to this embodiment, where, of the two entered prescription data, the prescription status of one prescription data is "dispensed" and the prescription status of the next prescription data is "awaiting instruction". In Figure 56, the unprocessed list is displayed.

[0224] As shown in Figure 56, in the display areas of multiple mounting sections, the name and quantity of the drug to be removed from the selection case are displayed in the mounting section display area corresponding to the mounting section 130 on which the selection case 300a is placed. The names of the drugs can be displayed in different colors depending on the type of drug. For example, highly toxic drugs are displayed in red, poisons in orange, and narcotics in blue. This makes it easy to identify the type of drug.

[0225] In the example shown in Figure 56, the prescription data for patient A includes two types of medications to be supplied: medication A and medication F. A selection case 300a containing medication A is placed on the first mounting section 130 from the right, and a selection case 300a containing medication F is placed on the second mounting section 130 from the right. In the mounting section area R130 of the first mounting section display area from the right, medication A and 14 tablets are displayed as the name and quantity of medication to be taken from selection case 300a. In the mounting section area R130 of the second mounting section display area from the right, medication F and 28 tablets are displayed as the name and quantity of medication to be taken from selection case 300a.

[0226] When a single prescription data contains multiple drugs to be supplied, the order of the drugs included in the prescription is displayed in an identifiable manner in the display area of ​​the mounting unit corresponding to the mounting unit 130 on which the selection case 300a is placed. In the example shown in Figure 56, the display area R160 of the first mounting unit display area from the right displays 1 / 2, indicating that it is the first of two drugs included in the prescription, and the display area R160 of the second mounting unit display area from the right displays 2 / 2, indicating that it is the second of two drugs included in the prescription. This makes it easy to recognize the prescription status of each of the multiple prescription data.

[0227] In this embodiment, in multiple mounting area display areas, the mounting area corresponding to the mounting area 130 on which the selected case 300a is mounted displays the quantity along with an estimate of the quantity. The estimate of the quantity is the number of sheets and tablets corresponding to the required quantity. For example, if one sheet contains 10 tablets of medication, and the required quantity is 14 tablets, the estimate of the quantity is 1 sheet and 4 tablets. In the example shown in Figure 56, the mounting area R130 of the first mounting area display area from the right displays 1 sheet and 4 tablets as an estimate of the quantity, and the mounting area R130 of the second mounting area display area from the right displays 2 sheets and 8 tablets as an estimate of the quantity. Note that it is possible to select whether or not to display the estimate of the quantity.

[0228] In this embodiment, in multiple display areas for the placement section, the display area for the placement section corresponding to the placement section 130 on which the selection case 300a is placed will display whether or not there is a stock shortage, where the quantity of the drug to be taken out of the selection case 300a is greater than the quantity of the drug contained in the selection case 300a. For example, in the example shown in Figure 56, if the quantity of drug F contained in the selection case 300a is less than 28 tablets, the quantity of the drug displayed in the placement area R130 of the second placement area from the right will be changed to red or another color.

[0229] In this embodiment, when the placement unit 130 is pulled out and a drug is removed from the selection case 300a, the barcode attached to the box containing the drug is read by the code reader 180 for verification. In the example shown in Figure 56, the barcode attached to the drug box contained in the selection case 300a placed on the first placement unit 130 from the right is read by the code reader 180 to confirm that it is the barcode associated with drug A. This helps to prevent the picking of the wrong drug.

[0230] Figure 57 shows the prescription screen displayed on the touch panel of the drug supply device according to this embodiment, with the filling button displayed in the display area corresponding to the placement section where the selected case is placed. In Figure 57, the unprocessed list is displayed.

[0231] In this embodiment, when the mounting section 130 on which the selection case 300a is placed is pulled out, the filling button RP is displayed in the mounting section display area corresponding to the mounting section 130, as shown in Figure 57. The filling button RP is displayed in the mounting section display area corresponding to the mounting section 130 each time the mounting section 130 is pulled out.

[0232] When the filling button RP is selected, an input screen is displayed on the touch panel 170 that allows the user to input the quantity of drug to be filled into the selection case 300a. In the example shown in Figure 57, an input screen resembling a calculator screen is displayed, allowing the user to input the quantity of drug A to be filled. In other words, the user can remove and replenish the drug from the selection case 300a placed on the extended mounting unit 130. The entered filling quantity is added to the drug inventory quantity stored in the memory unit 92, and the inventory quantity is updated.

[0233] In this embodiment, before inputting the filling quantity, the barcode attached to the box containing the medicine to be filled is read and verified by the code reader 180. In the example shown in Figure 57, the barcode attached to the box of medicine to be filled is read by the code reader 180 to confirm that it is the barcode associated with medicine A. This helps to prevent the incorrect medicine from being replenished.

[0234] In this embodiment, if the mounting section 130 is pulled out and the start operation is performed, but a completion operation is performed to return the pulled-out mounting section 130 to its original position before a predetermined time of a few seconds has elapsed, the control unit 90 determines that the start operation was not performed. This prevents the transport of selection cases 300a, in which the loading and unloading of medication has not been completed, to the case rack 200.

[0235] Figure 58 shows the prescription screen displayed on the touch panel of the drug supply device according to this embodiment, where the prescription status of two entered prescription data is "dispensed". In Figure 58, the number of prescriptions that can be dispensed simultaneously is set to 1. In Figure 58, the unprocessed list is displayed, and the quantity estimate is hidden.

[0236] When an instruction to start prescription processing is received for two input prescription data, the transport unit 400 transports the selection cases 300a containing the drugs to be supplied in one prescription data from the case rack 200 to a plurality of mounting units 130. If there are any mounting units 130 in the plurality of mounting units 130 where no selection cases 300a are placed, the transport unit 400 transports at least one selection case 300a containing the drugs to be supplied in the next prescription data from the case rack 200 to a mounting unit 130 where no selection cases 300a are placed.

[0237] In the example shown in Figure 58, after the selection case 300a containing drug A and drug F, which are to be supplied as included in patient A's prescription data, is transported to the mounting section 130 by the transport unit 400, the selection case 300a containing drug C, which is to be supplied as included in patient B's prescription data, is transported to the mounting section 130 by the transport unit 400.

[0238] As shown in Figure 58, the display area R160 of the mounting unit display area corresponding to the mounting unit 130 to which the selection cases 300a containing drug A and drug F, respectively, included in patient A's prescription data, were transported, and the display area R160 of the mounting unit display area corresponding to the mounting unit 130 to which the selection case 300a containing drug C, included in patient B's prescription data, was transported, are displayed in different display modes, for example, in different colors.

[0239] In multiple mounting units 130, the mounting unit 130 on which a selection case 300a containing the target drug included in at least one prescription data, which has been sequentially instructed, is mounted switches to a state where the drug can be inserted and removed. The number of the above-mentioned prescription data that will switch to this drug-insertable state can be set. In the example shown in Figure 58, this number is set to 1. That is, the number of prescriptions that can be removed simultaneously is set to 1. Therefore, only the mounting unit 130 on which the selection case 300a containing the target drug A and drug F included in patient A's prescription data is mounted switches to a state where the drug can be inserted and removed, while the mounting unit 130 on which the selection case 300a containing the target drug C included in patient B's prescription data is mounted remains in a state where the drug cannot be inserted or removed.

[0240] As shown in Figure 58, the display area for the mounting section 130 that is in a state where the drug can be inserted and removed, and the display area for the mounting section 130 that is maintained in a state where the drug cannot be inserted or removed, are displayed in different ways. For example, the mounting section area R130 of the display area for the mounting section 130 that is maintained in a state where the drug cannot be inserted or removed is displayed in gray.

[0241] Figure 59 shows the prescription screen displayed on the touch panel of the drug supply device according to this embodiment, where one selection case containing the drug to be supplied, which is included in one of two prescription data sets whose prescription status is "dispensed," has been transported from the mounting unit to the case rack and returned. In Figure 59, the unprocessed list is displayed.

[0242] When a completion operation is performed indicating the completion of loading and unloading of medication into one of the multiple selection cases 300a, the transport unit 400 transports this selection case 300a from the mounting unit 130 to the case rack 200 only if the medication contained in this selection case 300a is not included in the next prescription data.

[0243] In the example shown in FIGS. 58 and 59, when a completion operation indicating the completion of the loading and unloading of drug A for the selection case 300a containing drug A is performed, since drug A is not included in the drugs to be supplied included in the prescription data of the next patient B, as shown in FIG. 59, the transport unit 400 transports the selection case 300a containing drug A from the placement unit 130 to the case rack 200.

[0244] FIG. 60 is a diagram showing a state in which all the selection cases containing the drugs to be supplied included in one of the two prescription data are transported from the placement unit to the case rack and then returned on the prescription screen displayed on the touch panel included in the drug supply device according to the present embodiment. In FIG. 60, an unprocessed list is displayed, and the quantity guideline is not displayed.

[0245] As shown in FIG. 60, when the selection case 300a containing drug A and drug F to be supplied included in the prescription data of patient A is transported from the placement unit 130 to the case rack 200 and then returned, the prescription data of patient A is deleted from the unprocessed list, and only the placement unit 130 on which drug C to be supplied included in the prescription data of the next patient B is placed is switched to a state where the loading and unloading of drugs is possible.

[0246] FIG. 61 is a diagram showing a state in which an unlock button is displayed in the instruction selection area on the prescription screen displayed on the touch panel included in the drug supply device according to the present embodiment. In FIG. 61, an unprocessed list is displayed, and the quantity guideline is not displayed.

[0247] As shown in Figure 58, when the display area for the mounting section corresponding to the mounting section 130 on which the selection case 300a containing drug C is placed and which is maintained in a state where the drug cannot be inserted or removed is selected, a lock release button appears in the instruction selection area RN, as shown in Figure 61. When the lock release button is selected, the mounting section 130 on which the selection case 300a containing drug C is placed switches to a state where the drug can be inserted or removed. In this embodiment, the time for which the lock release button is displayed in the instruction selection area RN is, for example, 3 seconds, and after 3 seconds the lock release button disappears and it becomes impossible to unlock.

[0248] Thus, in the multiple mounting sections 130, the mounting section 130 on which a selection case 300a containing a drug to be supplied, which is included in prescription data other than the at least one prescription data mentioned above that can be switched to a state in which the drug can be inserted and removed, is mounted can be switched to a state in which the drug can be inserted and removed.

[0249] Figure 62 shows the prescription screen displayed on the touch panel of the drug supply device according to this embodiment, where the prescription status of the three entered prescription data is "dispensed". In Figure 62, the number of prescriptions that can be dispensed simultaneously is set to 3. In Figure 62, the unprocessed list is displayed, and the quantity estimate is hidden.

[0250] In the example shown in Figure 62, after the selection case 300a containing drug A and drug F, respectively, which are to be supplied as included in patient A's prescription data, is transported to the mounting section 130 by the transport unit 400, the selection case 300a containing drug C, one of the drug A and drug C included in patient B's prescription data, is transported to the mounting section 130 by the transport unit 400, and then the selection case 300a containing drug G, which is to be supplied as included in patient C's prescription data, is transported to the mounting section 130 by the transport unit 400.

[0251] Since the number of prescriptions that can be retrieved simultaneously is set to 3, the four mounting sections 130 on which the selection cases 300a containing the drugs to be supplied, which are included in the three prescription data sets, are placed are switched to a state where drugs can be inserted and removed.

[0252] In the example shown in Figure 62, since drug A is included in both patient A's prescription data and patient B's prescription data, the display area R160 of the display area of ​​the mounting section, which corresponds to the mounting section 130 on which the selection case 300a containing drug A is placed, will display the patient A's prescription data until the prescription processing for patient A is completed.

[0253] As shown in Figure 62, the display area R160 of the mounting unit display area corresponding to the selection case 300a containing drug C, which is included in the prescription data for patient B, displays 2 / 2, indicating that it is the second of two drugs included in one prescription.

[0254] As shown in Figure 62, in the display area R160 of the mounting unit display area corresponding to the selection case 300a containing the drug G to be supplied, which is included in the next prescription data for patient C, an identification mark SN is displayed indicating that multiple types of drugs are contained in the selection case 300a containing drug G. Thus, in the drug supply device according to this embodiment, in multiple mounting unit display areas, it is possible to identify whether or not multiple types of drugs are contained in the selection case 300a in the mounting unit display area corresponding to the mounting unit 130 on which the selection case 300a is placed.

[0255] Figure 63 shows the prescription screen displayed on the touch panel of the drug supply device according to this embodiment, showing the state after all selected cases containing the drugs to be supplied, as included in two of the three prescription data sets, have been transported from the mounting unit to the case rack and returned. In Figure 63, the unprocessed list is displayed, and the quantity estimate is hidden.

[0256] In the examples shown in Figures 62 and 63, even if a completion operation is performed indicating the completion of loading and unloading drug A into the selection case 300a containing drug A, which is included in patient A's prescription data, the transport unit 400 does not transport the selection case 300a containing drug A from the mounting section 130 to the case rack 200, as shown in Figure 63, because drug A is included in the prescription data of the next patient, patient B.

[0257] Thus, the transport unit 400 may be configured to prioritize transporting the selected case 300a from the case rack 200 to the mounting unit 130 over transporting the selected case 300a from the mounting unit 130 to the case rack 200 and back. This reduces the waiting time for the selected case 300a to be transported from the case rack 200 to the mounting unit 130.

[0258] Alternatively, the transport unit 400 may be configured to prioritize moving between the case rack 200 and the mounting section 130 while holding the selected case 300a as a condition for transporting the selected case 300a. This reduces the number of movements required for the transport unit 400.

[0259] As shown in Figure 63, in the display area R160 of the display area

[0260] As shown in Figure 63, when the selection cases 300a, each containing the drug F to be supplied in patient A's prescription data and the drug G to be supplied in patient C's prescription data, are transported from the mounting unit 130 to the case rack 200 and returned, the prescription data for patient A and patient C are deleted from the unprocessed list.

[0261] Figure 64 shows the prescription screen displayed on the touch panel of the drug supply device according to this embodiment, where, of the two entered prescription data, the prescription status of one prescription data is pending, and the prescription status of the next prescription data is waiting for instructions. In Figure 64, the unprocessed list is displayed.

[0262] As shown in Figure 64, it is possible to select at least one prescription data from among the multiple prescription data displayed in the unprocessed list and postpone the prescription processing of the drugs to be supplied included in this at least one prescription data. For example, if the prescription data for patient A shown in Figure 56 is selected and the selection button labeled "Pending" in the instruction selection area RN is selected, the prescription processing of patient A's prescription data will be postponed.

[0263] The pending list clearly displays at least one prescription data item for which prescription processing is pending. In the example shown in Figure 64, the status area RS of the prescription data for patient A, for whom prescription processing is pending, displays "Pending".

[0264] The at least one prescription data for which prescription processing has been put on hold will appear at the end of the pending list. In the example shown in Figure 64, in the pending list, the prescription data for patient A, for whom prescription processing has been put on hold, will appear after the prescription data for patient B.

[0265] In the selection case 300a in which the drugs to be supplied included in the at least one prescription data with prescription processing reserved are each accommodated, when the at least one prescription data is selected and reserved, the selection cases 300a that are in the process of being conveyed or have been conveyed to the plurality of placement units 130 by the conveyance unit 400 are conveyed back to the case rack 200 by the conveyance unit 400 after the at least one prescription data is selected and reserved.

[0266] For example, as shown in FIG. 56, the selection case 300a that accommodates drug A and drug F to be supplied included in the prescription data of patient A and has been conveyed to the plurality of placement units 130 by the conveyance unit 400 is, as shown in FIG. 64, conveyed back to the case rack 200 by the conveyance unit 400 after the prescription data of patient A is selected and reserved.

[0267] In addition, when the at least one prescription data is selected and reserved, for the drugs that have already been taken out from the selection case 300a among the drugs to be supplied included in the prescription data, when the prescription processing of the prescription data is resumed, the conveyance from the case rack 200 to the placement unit 130 by the conveyance unit 400 is not performed.

[0268] For example, as shown in FIG. 59, after a completion operation indicating the completion of the putting in and taking out of drugs for the selection case 300a that accommodates drug A is performed and this selection case 300a is conveyed from the placement unit 130 to the case rack 200, when the prescription data of patient A is selected and reserved, when the prescription processing of the prescription data of patient A is resumed, the conveyance from the case rack 200 to the placement unit 130 of the selection case 300a that accommodates drug A by the conveyance unit 400 is not performed.

[0269] As described above, when the at least one prescription data is selected and reserved, for the drugs that have already been taken out from the selection case 300a among the drugs to be supplied included in the prescription data, the quantity of the taken-out drugs is subtracted from the inventory quantity of the drug stored in the storage unit 92, and the inventory quantity is updated.

[0270] It is possible to select at least one prescription data from among multiple prescription data displayed in the unprocessed list, subtract the quantity of the drug to be supplied included in that prescription data from the inventory quantity, and then delete that prescription data. For example, if the prescription data for patient A is selected and the selection button displayed as "Picked" in the instruction selection area RN is selected, the quantity of the drug to be supplied included in patient A's prescription data will be subtracted from the inventory quantity of that drug, and patient A's prescription data will be deleted.

[0271] It is possible to select at least one prescription data from among multiple prescription data displayed in the pending list and delete that prescription data without subtracting the quantity of the supplied medication included in that prescription data from the drug inventory. For example, if the prescription data for patient A is selected and the select button labeled "Delete" in the instruction selection area RN is selected, the prescription data for patient A will be deleted without subtracting the quantity of the supplied medication included in patient A's prescription data from the inventory quantity of that medication.

[0272] Figure 65 shows the drug filling screen displayed on the touch panel of the drug supply device according to this embodiment. When the filling area RG is selected in the prescription screen shown in Figure 55, the initial screen of the drug filling screen is displayed on the touch panel 170. With the initial screen of the drug filling screen displayed on the touch panel 170, when the code reader 180 reads the identification code attached to the box containing the drug, the selection case 300a containing the drug associated with this identification code is transported from the case rack 200 to the multiple mounting sections 130 by the transport unit 400.

[0273] In this embodiment, the code reader 180 can continuously read the identification codes attached to each of the multiple drugs. When the code reader 180 continuously reads the identification codes, the multiple selection cases 300a containing the drugs associated with each identification code are sequentially transported by the transport unit 400 from the case rack 200 to the multiple mounting sections 130.

[0274] As shown in Figure 65, the drug filling screen P2 displays the identification code area RK, drug name area RT, inventory location area RW, inventory quantity area RX, and expiration date area RY. The identification code area RK displays the identification code 350 of the case 300 containing the drug. The drug name area RT displays the name of the drug. The inventory location area RW displays the location where the drug is stored in the first and second storage compartments. The inventory quantity area RX displays the inventory quantity of the drug. The expiration date area RY displays the expiration date of the drug.

[0275] In the example shown in Figure 65, the identification codes attached to drug X and drug Y are read, and two selection cases 300a containing the drugs corresponding to each identification code are transported by the transport unit 400 from the case rack 200 to two mounting sections 130. These two mounting sections 130 are in a state where drugs cannot be inserted or removed.

[0276] Figure 66 shows the state in which an input screen is displayed on the touch panel of the drug supply device according to this embodiment, allowing the user to input the quantity of drug to be filled into the selected case.

[0277] After the selection case 300a containing the drug associated with the above identification code is transported by the transport unit 400 from the case rack 200 to one of the mounting units 130, the code reader 180 reads the identification code of the drug, and the mounting unit 130 on which the selection case 300a containing the drug is placed switches to a state where the drug can be inserted and removed.

[0278] In the example shown in Figure 65, after the selection case 300a containing drugs X and Y is transported from the case rack 200 to multiple mounting units 130 by the transport unit 400, the identification code of drug X is read by the code reader 180. At this time, the mounting unit 130 on which the selection case 300a containing drug X is placed switches to a state where drug X can be inserted and removed. At this time, as shown in Figure 65, the display area R160 of the mounting unit display area corresponding to the mounting unit 130 that has switched to the state where drug X can be inserted and removed switches to a different display mode than the display area R160 of the mounting unit display area corresponding to the mounting unit 130 that is not in the state where drug X can be inserted and removed. For example, the color of the display area R160 changes.

[0279] When the mounting section 130, which has been switched to a state where drug can be loaded and unloaded, is pulled out, an input screen for inputting the quantity of drug to be filled into the selection case 300a is displayed on the touch panel 170, as shown in Figure 66. In the example shown in Figure 66, when the mounting section 130 on which the selection case 300a containing drug X is placed is pulled out, the drug quantity input area RM for inputting the quantity of drug to be filled into the selection case 300a is displayed in the mounting section area R130 of the mounting section display area corresponding to the mounting section 130 on which the selection case 300a containing drug X is placed.

[0280] The memory unit 92 stores the identification code attached to the box containing the drug in association with the drug itself. If the identification code contains information regarding the drug's expiration date, the expiration date of the drug stored in the memory unit 92 is updated when the code is read by the code reader 180.

[0281] Figure 67 shows the drug inventory screen displayed on the touch panel of the drug supply device according to this embodiment. As shown in Figure 67, the drug inventory screen P3 can be displayed on the touch panel 170 based on the drug inventory information stored in the storage unit 92. The drug inventory screen P3 displays the identification code area RK, the drug name area RT, the inventory location area RW, the inventory quantity area RX, and the expiration date area RY.

[0282] Furthermore, when replenishing medication, it is also possible to select a medication from the list of installed medications and input the quantity to be filled. Specifically, on the initial screen of the medication filling screen, the installed medication screen can be displayed by selecting the selection button labeled "Medication Selection" in the instruction selection area RN shown in Figure 65.

[0283] Figure 68 is a diagram showing the loaded drug screen displayed on the touch panel of the drug supply device according to this embodiment. As shown in Figure 68, based on the drug loading information stored in the storage unit 92, the loaded drug screen P4 displays a list of loaded drugs contained in the cases 300 stored in the case rack 200. The loaded drug screen P4 displays the identification code area RK, the drug name area RT, the inventory quantity area RX, and the expiration date area RY.

[0284] On the drug loading screen P4, when a drug to be replenished is selected, the selection case 300a containing the drug is transported by the transport unit 400 from the case rack 200 to one of the mounting sections 130, and the drug filling screen P2 shown in Figure 65 is displayed on the touch panel 170.

[0285] When the identification code attached to the box containing the drug is read by the code reader 180, if this identification code is not stored in the storage unit 92, one of the multiple drugs stored in the storage unit 92 can be selected from the list displayed on the touch panel 170 and associated with this identification code.

[0286] Figure 69 shows the drug selection screen displayed on the touch panel of the drug supply device according to this embodiment. As shown in Figure 69, the drug selection screen P5 displays a selection area RC, an identification code area RK, a drug name area RT, a warning quantity area RZ, an inventory quantity area RX, and an expiration date area RY. The warning quantity area RZ displays a setting value for displaying a warning on the touch panel 170 when the drug inventory quantity falls below a certain amount.

[0287] On the drug selection screen P5, it is possible to select one of the following display modes: all drugs stored in the memory unit 92, drugs that are out of stock, drugs whose inventory quantity is below the warning quantity, or drugs filtered by the first letter of their name.

[0288] By selecting a drug on the drug selection screen P5, the previously unstored identification code can be associated with that drug and stored in the storage unit 92.

[0289] Furthermore, it is possible to select a drug from the case information registration screen and associate the drug with the identification code attached to the box containing the drug. Figure 70 shows the case information registration screen displayed on the touch panel of the drug supply device according to this embodiment.

[0290] As shown in Figure 70, based on the case identification information, the case information registration screen P6 displays a list of drugs contained in multiple cases 300. The case information registration screen P6 displays the identification code area RK, the drug name area RT, the specification area RR, the unit area RU, and the warning quantity area RZ. The specification area RR displays the drug specification. The unit area RU displays the unit quantity of the drug, the quantity of drug per sheet, and the quantity of drug per box.

[0291] When one drug is selected from the list of drugs displayed on the case information registration screen P6, and the code button REC is selected, and the identification code attached to the box containing the drug is read by the code reader 180, the read identification code is displayed in the code display area RQ, and the identification code and the drug are associated and stored in the storage unit 92.

[0292] Figure 71 shows the prescription screen displayed on the touch panel of the drug supply device according to this embodiment, illustrating the state in which the prescription status of three sequentially instructed prescription data has been processed. In Figure 71, the processed list is displayed.

[0293] Once the prescription processing for the drugs to be supplied, as included in the prescription data, is completed, the prescription data is moved from the unprocessed list to the processed list. As shown in Figure 71, when the processed area RA is selected on the prescription screen P1, the processed list of the sequentially instructed prescription data is displayed on the touch panel 170. The status area RS of the processed list displays "Processed".

[0294] If a drug included in a processed prescription data is returned, a return process can be performed. Specifically, by selecting at least one prescription data from among the multiple prescription data displayed in the processed list and adding the quantity of the drug included in this at least one prescription data to the inventory quantity of this drug after the prescription processing, it is possible to return the inventory quantity of the drug included in this at least one prescription data stored in the storage unit 92 to the inventory quantity before the prescription processing.

[0295] For example, if the supplied medication included in the prescription data for patient A shown in Figures 62 and 71 is returned, and the inventory quantity of the medication returns to the quantity before prescription processing, selecting the status area RS of patient A's prescription data in the processed list will add 14 tablets to the inventory quantity of medication A after prescription processing, returning it to the quantity before prescription processing, and add 28 tablets to the inventory quantity of medication F after prescription processing, returning it to the quantity before prescription processing.

[0296] The processed list clearly displays at least one prescription data entry that has been reverted to its pre-prescription inventory quantity. For example, if a drug included in patient D's prescription data is returned and its inventory quantity is reverted to its pre-prescription inventory quantity, an identification mark SR will be displayed in the status area RS, as shown in Figure 71.

[0297] For at least one prescription data that has been reverted to the inventory quantity before prescription processing, it is not possible to select it again from among the multiple prescription data displayed in the processed list and add the quantity of the drug to be supplied included in this at least one prescription data back to the inventory quantity of that drug stored in the storage unit 92.

[0298] For example, if a drug included in patient D's prescription data is returned and the inventory quantity of that drug is reset to the quantity before the prescription was processed, it is not possible to re-select the status area RS of patient D's prescription data in the processed list and reset the inventory quantity of the drug included in that prescription data to the quantity before the prescription was processed.

[0299] If the placement unit 130 is pulled out and the completion operation is performed by accidentally returning the placement unit 130 to its original position while the drug is being loaded or unloaded into the selection case 300a, if an over- or under- or under- or under- under- or under- under- or under- under- or under under- or under under under- or under under under- or under under under under- or under under under under under under under under under under under under under under under under under under under

[0300] Specifically, it is possible to select at least one prescription data from among the multiple prescription data displayed in the processed list shown in Figure 71, and then perform the prescription processing again for the drug to be supplied included in this at least one prescription data.

[0301] When at least one prescription data is selected from among the multiple prescription data displayed in the processed list, at least one drug to be supplied from the list displayed on the touch panel 170 can be selected for re-processing of the prescription.

[0302] Figure 72 shows the processed prescription information screen displayed on the touch panel of the drug supply device according to this embodiment. For example, when patient A's prescription data is selected from among the multiple prescription data displayed in the processed list shown in Figure 71, the processed prescription information screen P7, which includes a list of drugs to be supplied included in patient A's prescription data, is displayed on the touch panel 170, as shown in Figure 72.

[0303] As shown in Figure 72, the processed prescription information screen P7 displays the prescription data area RD, identification code area RK, drug name area RT, drug quantity area RV, unit area RU, status area RS, and selection area RC. The drug quantity area RV displays the quantity of the drug to be supplied included in the prescription data. The status area RS displays "Completed" if the completion operation has already been performed, and "Incomplete" if the completion operation has not been performed.

[0304] For example, on the processed prescription information screen P7 shown in Figure 72, by selecting drug A, for which the operation has already been completed, and issuing a new instruction, the transport unit 400 can transport the selection case 300a containing drug A from the case rack 200 to the mounting section 130.

[0305] In the drug supply device according to this embodiment, the transport unit 400 can change the arrangement of multiple cases 300 in the case rack 200. Specifically, the transport unit 400 changes the arrangement of multiple cases 300 in the case rack 200 by sequentially moving multiple cases 300 using positions in the case rack 200 where no cases 300 are currently placed.

[0306] The memory unit 92 stores multiple arrangement patterns for the arrangement of multiple cases 300 in the case rack 200. The memory unit 92 further stores the transport history of the multiple cases 300 by the transport unit 400. The memory unit 92 further stores the names of the drugs contained in each of the multiple cases 300.

[0307] Figure 73 shows the case rearrangement screen displayed on the touch panel of the drug supply device according to this embodiment. Based on a plurality of storage patterns stored in the storage unit 92, the case rearrangement screen P8 is displayed on the touch panel 170 as shown in Figure 73. The case rearrangement screen P8 displays the registered arrangement pattern area RL, the registered area REP, the first selection area RH1, the second selection area RH2, and the third selection area RH3. The registered arrangement pattern area RL displays a list of the registered arrangement patterns.

[0308] As the case rearrangement screen P8 shown in Figure 73 is displayed on the touch panel 170, the transport unit 400 moves behind the case rack 200 along the arrangement of the multiple cases 300 in 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 position of the multiple cases 300 in the case rack 200.

[0309] The storage unit 92 can store the current arrangement of multiple cases 300 in the case rack 200 as a new arrangement pattern included in the above multiple arrangement patterns. Specifically, when the registration area REP is selected on the case rearrangement screen P8 shown in Figure 73, the current arrangement of multiple cases 300 in the case rack 200 is stored in the storage unit 92 as a new arrangement pattern.

[0310] The transport unit 400 can change the arrangement of multiple cases 300 in the case rack 200 based on an arrangement pattern selected from among multiple arrangement patterns stored in the storage unit 92.

[0311] Specifically, in the case rearrangement screen P8 shown in Figure 73, when one arrangement pattern is selected from among the multiple arrangement patterns displayed in the registered arrangement pattern area RL and the first selection area RH1 is selected, the transport unit 400 rearranges the arrangement of the multiple cases 300 in the case rack 200 so that it becomes that single arrangement pattern.

[0312] The transport unit 400 can change the arrangement of the multiple cases 300 based on the transport history stored in the memory unit 92, so that the cases with the highest transport frequency are placed near the multiple mounting sections 130 in the case rack.

[0313] Specifically, when the second selection area RH2 is selected in the case rearrangement screen P8 shown in Figure 73, the transport unit 400 rearranges the multiple cases 300 based on the transport history stored in the storage unit 92 so that the cases 300 with the highest transport frequency are placed near the multiple mounting sections 130 in the case rack 200.

[0314] The transport unit 400 can rearrange the arrangement of the multiple cases 300 so that the drugs contained in each of the multiple cases 300 are arranged alphabetically in the case rack 200, based on the names of the drugs stored in the memory unit 92.

[0315] Specifically, when the third selection area RH3 is selected in the case rearrangement screen P8 shown in Figure 73, the transport unit 400 rearranges the multiple cases 300 so that the drugs contained in each of the multiple cases 300 are arranged alphabetically in the case rack 200, based on the names of the drugs stored in the memory unit 92.

[0316] The transport unit 400 may be able to change the arrangement of the multiple cases 300 so that the drugs contained in each of the multiple cases 300 are arranged in order of therapeutic effect in the case rack 200, based on the therapeutic effects of the drugs stored in the memory unit 92.

[0317] Specifically, in the case rearrangement screen P8 shown in Figure 73, a fourth selection area (not shown) may be provided. When this fourth selection area is selected, the transport unit 400 may rearrange the multiple cases 300 so that the drugs contained in each of the multiple cases 300 are arranged in order of therapeutic effect in the case rack 200, based on the therapeutic effects of the drugs stored in the storage unit 92.

[0318] The transport unit 400 may be configured to unload the selected case 300a from the case rack 200 only when the identification information carried on the identification code 350 of the selected case 300a is acquired by the code reader 470.

[0319] Here, an example of the operation for determining the storage position of the case 300 when the transport unit 400 unloads the selected case 300a from the case rack 200 and when the transport unit 400 loads the selected case 300a into the case rack 200 will be described in the drug supply device 1 according to this embodiment.

[0320] When the transport unit 400 switches from an open state to a closed state and then removes a selected case 300a stored in a section where the storage positions of multiple cases 300 are unknown from the case rack 200, if the identification information carried on the identification code 350 of this selected case 300a is not acquired by the code reader 470, the transport unit 400 moves along the arrangement of the multiple cases 300 only in the section where the storage positions are unknown, thereby determining the storage positions of the multiple cases 300 in that section.

[0321] In other words, when removing a selection case 300a stored in a section whose storage location is unknown from the case rack 200, the transport unit 400 moves to the rear of the selection case 300a based on the arrangement of the case 300 which was determined before the section was opened. Once the identification information carried on the identification code 350 of the selection case 300a is acquired by the code reader 470, the transport unit 400 removes the selection case 300a from the case rack 200, and the operation to determine the storage location of the case 300 in the section whose storage location is unknown is not performed.

[0322] When the transport unit 400 switches from an open state to a closed state and then transports a selected case 300a from the multiple mounting sections 130 to a section where the storage positions of multiple cases 300 are unknown, the transport unit 400 moves along the arrangement of the multiple cases 300 only in the section where the storage positions are unknown, thereby determining the storage positions of the multiple cases 300 in the section where the storage positions are unknown.

[0323] In other words, when the transport unit 400 returns the selected case 300a to a section where its storage location is unknown, the transport unit 400 first determines the storage location of the case 300 only for that section, and then transports the selected case 300a into that section.

[0324] In the drug supply device according to this embodiment, the image display unit displays multiple placement unit display areas that correspond one-to-one with the multiple placement units 130. In the multiple placement unit display areas, the name and quantity of the drug to be taken from the selection case 300a are displayed in the placement unit display area corresponding to the placement unit 130 on which the selection case 300a is placed. As a result, the worker picking the drug can easily pick the drug by looking at the name and quantity of the drug to be taken displayed in the placement unit display area and taking only the necessary drug in the necessary quantity.

[0325] In the drug supply device according to this embodiment, in the display areas for multiple placement areas, the quantity and an estimate of the quantity are displayed in the placement area corresponding to the placement area 130 on which the selection case 300a is placed. As a result, the worker picking the drugs can easily pick the drugs by looking at the number of sheets and tablets corresponding to the required quantity of drugs displayed in the placement area, and taking out the required number of sheets containing the drugs, as well as the required quantity of any remaining drugs.

[0326] In the drug supply device according to this embodiment, in the display areas of multiple placement areas, the display area corresponding to the placement area 130 on which the selection case 300a is placed will display whether or not there is a stock shortage, where the quantity of drug to be taken from the selection case 300a is greater than the quantity of drug contained in the selection case 300a. This allows the operator picking the drug to easily recognize that the selection case 300a is insufficient in stock and needs to be replenished.

[0327] In the drug supply device according to this embodiment, in the display areas of multiple placement areas, whether or not multiple types of drugs are contained in the selection case 300a is displayed in the placement area corresponding to the placement area 130 on which the selection case 300a is placed. This allows for the warning of the worker picking the drugs to prevent taking the wrong drug from the selection case 300a that is not the drug to be supplied as included in the prescription data.

[0328] In the drug supply device according to this embodiment, a filling button RP is further displayed in the display area of ​​the mounting section corresponding to the mounting section 130 on which the selection case 300a is placed. When the filling button RP is selected, an input screen is displayed on the screen display unit where the quantity of drug to be filled into the selection case 300a can be entered. This allows the drug to be replenished in the selection case 300a that has been transported to the mounting section 130 for picking, and the number of times the selection case 300a must be transported for replenishment can be reduced. In addition, when the drug is taken out of the selection case 300a, the drug can be replenished at the same time and the inventory quantity can be updated, thus reducing the workload for the operator.

[0329] In the drug supply device according to this embodiment, when the mounting section 130 on which the selection case 300a is placed is pulled out, a filling button RP is displayed in the mounting section display area corresponding to the mounting section 130. This makes it easy to display an input screen for entering the amount of drug to be filled when replenishing the selection case 300a that has been transported to the mounting section 130 for drug picking, and consequently makes drug replenishment easier.

[0330] In the drug supply device according to this embodiment, in each of the multiple placement units 130, the placement unit 130 on which a selection case 300a containing the drug to be supplied, which is sequentially instructed to be included in at least one prescription data, is placed switches to a state where the drug can be loaded and unloaded. The number of at least one prescription data that triggers this drug loading and unloading state can be set. This allows for flexible responses depending on the situation. Specifically, by setting the number of at least one prescription data to 1, the possibility of picking the wrong drug can be reduced. Alternatively, by setting the number of at least one prescription data to 2 or more, multiple workers can pick their respective drugs simultaneously, enabling efficient drug picking.

[0331] In the drug supply device according to this embodiment, among the multiple mounting units 130, the mounting unit 130 on which a selection case 300a containing the drug to be supplied, which is included in prescription data other than the at least one prescription data that is switched to a state where the drug can be loaded and unloaded, is mounted can be switched to a state where the drug can be loaded and unloaded. This makes it possible to change the order of prescription processing for prescription data that is in a dispensed prescription state, and allows for flexible responses according to the situation.

[0332] In the drug supply device according to this embodiment, when a completion operation is performed indicating the completion of loading and unloading of a drug into one of the multiple selection cases 300a, the transport unit 400 transports the selection case 300a from the mounting unit 130 to the case rack 200 only if the drug contained in this selection case 300a is not included in the next prescription data. This eliminates the unnecessary transport of selection cases 300a and enables efficient transport of selection cases 300a.

[0333] In the drug supply device according to this embodiment, among the multiple placement display areas, the placement display area corresponding to the placement area 130 on which a selection case 300a containing the drug contained is placed switches to a display corresponding to the next prescription data after the completion operation in the prescription processing for the previous prescription data. As a result, the worker picking the drug to be supplied included in the next prescription data can easily pick the drug by looking at the display corresponding to the next prescription data displayed in the placement display area and picking the drug for the next prescription data.

[0334] In the drug supply device according to this embodiment, it is possible to select at least one prescription data from among multiple prescription data displayed in the unprocessed list and postpone the prescription processing of the drug to be supplied included in this at least one prescription data. This makes it possible to change the order of prescription processing of sequentially entered prescription data, enabling flexible responses according to the situation.

[0335] In the drug supply device according to this embodiment, the unprocessed list displays at least one prescription data for which prescription processing has been put on hold in an identifiable manner. This makes it easy to identify the prescription data that has been put on hold.

[0336] In the drug supply device according to this embodiment, the at least one prescription data for which prescription processing has been put on hold is displayed at the last position in the unprocessed list. This makes the unprocessed list easier to view because the at least one prescription data for which prescription processing has been put on hold does not obstruct it.

[0337] In the drug supply device according to this embodiment, in the selection case 300a, which contains the drugs to be supplied included in the at least one prescription data for which prescription processing has been put on hold, when the at least one prescription data is selected and put on hold, the selection case 300a that is being transported or has already been transported to the plurality of mounting units 130 by the transport unit 400 is transported back to the case rack 200 by the transport unit 400 after the at least one prescription data has been selected and put on hold. This makes it possible to process prescription data after the reserved prescription data, and prescription processing can be performed efficiently.

[0338] In the drug supply device according to this embodiment, when the initial screen of the drug filling screen is displayed on the touch panel 170, and the code reader 180 reads the identification code attached to the box containing the drug, the selection case 300a containing the drug associated with this identification code is transported from the case rack 200 to a plurality of mounting units 130 by the transport unit 400. This makes it possible to easily transport the selection case 300a containing the drug to be replenished to the mounting unit 130, and thus easily replenish the drug in the selection case 300a.

[0339] In the drug supply device according to this embodiment, after a selection case 300a containing a drug corresponding to an identification code attached to a box containing the drug is transported by a transport unit 400 from the case rack 200 to a plurality of mounting units 130, when the identification code of this drug is read by the code reader 180, the mounting unit 130 on which the selection case 300a containing this drug is placed switches to a state where the drug can be inserted and removed. This prevents the incorrect drug from being replenished into the selection case 300a.

[0340] In the drug supply device according to this embodiment, the code reader 180 can continuously read the identification codes attached to each of the multiple drugs. When the code reader 180 continuously reads the identification codes, the multiple selection cases 300a containing the drugs associated with each identification code are sequentially transported from the case rack 200 to the multiple mounting sections 130 by the transport unit 400. As a result, while the replenishment of the first drug to be replenished is in progress, the selection cases 300a containing the drugs to be replenished from the second to the third are sequentially transported from the case rack 200 to the multiple mounting sections 130 by the transport unit 400. Therefore, when replenishing the second to the third drug, there is no waiting time until the selection cases 300a are transported by the transport unit 400, and the drugs can be efficiently replenished into the selection cases 300a.

[0341] In the drug supply device according to this embodiment, when the mounting section 130, which has been switched to a state where drugs can be loaded and unloaded, is pulled out, an input screen on the touch panel 170 is displayed on which the quantity of drug to be filled into the selection case 300a can be entered. This makes it easy to input the quantity of drug to be filled into the selection case 300a from the input screen.

[0342] In the drug supply device according to this embodiment, when the identification code attached to the box containing the drug is read by the code reader 180, if this identification code is not stored in the storage unit 92, one drug can be selected from a list of drugs stored in the storage unit 92 displayed on the touch panel 170 and associated with this identification code. This makes it possible to easily associate the identification code attached to the box containing the drug with the drug in question, and to easily deal with changes in the identification code.

[0343] In the drug supply device according to this embodiment, by selecting at least one prescription data from among multiple prescription data displayed in the processed list and adding the quantity of the drug to be supplied included in this at least one prescription data to the inventory quantity of this drug after the prescription processing, it is possible to return the inventory quantity of the drug to be supplied included in this at least one prescription data stored in the storage unit 92 to the inventory quantity before the prescription processing. This makes it possible to return the inventory quantity of the drug in response to drug returns, and consequently, to respond flexibly according to the situation.

[0344] In the drug supply device according to this embodiment, the processed list clearly displays at least one prescription data entry that has been returned to the inventory quantity before prescription processing. This makes it easy to understand the prescription data to which the inventory quantity of the drug to be supplied has been returned.

[0345] In the drug supply device according to this embodiment, for at least one prescription data that has been returned to the inventory quantity before prescription processing, it is not possible to select it again from among the multiple prescription data displayed in the processed list and add the quantity of the drug to be supplied included in this at least one prescription data to the inventory quantity of this drug stored in the storage unit 92. This makes it possible to prevent the drug inventory quantity from being returned in excess.

[0346] In the drug supply device according to this embodiment, it is possible to select at least one prescription data from among multiple prescription data displayed in the processed list and perform prescription processing again for the drug to be supplied included in this at least one prescription data. This allows the selection case 300a containing the drug to be supplied included in the processed prescription data to be easily transported to the mounting unit 130, enabling flexible responses according to the situation.

[0347] In the drug supply device according to this embodiment, when at least one prescription data is selected from among multiple prescription data displayed in the processed list, at least one drug to be supplied included in this at least one prescription data can be selected from a list displayed on the touch panel 170 to perform prescription processing again. This makes it possible to easily transport only the selection case 300a containing the necessary drug from among the multiple drugs to be supplied included in the processed prescription data to the mounting unit 130, thus enabling flexible responses according to the situation.

[0348] In the drug supply device according to this embodiment, the transport unit 400 can change the arrangement of the multiple cases 300 in the case rack 200. This makes it possible to easily change the arrangement of the multiple cases 300 in the case rack 200 to a suitable arrangement depending on the situation.

[0349] In the drug supply device according to this embodiment, the storage unit 92 stores multiple arrangement patterns for the arrangement of multiple cases 300 in the case rack 200. The transport unit 400 can change the arrangement of the multiple cases 300 in the case rack 200 based on the arrangement pattern selected from the multiple arrangement patterns stored in the storage unit 92. As a result, the arrangement of the multiple cases 300 can be easily changed by selecting one arrangement pattern from among the multiple arrangement patterns.

[0350] In the drug supply device according to this embodiment, the storage unit 92 further stores the transport history of the multiple cases 300 by the transport unit 400. Based on the transport history stored in the storage unit 92, the transport unit 400 can change the arrangement of the multiple cases 300 so that the cases 300 with the highest transport frequency are placed near the multiple mounting sections 130 on the case rack 200. This allows cases 300 containing frequently used drugs to be placed near the mounting sections 130, enabling efficient transport of the cases 300 during prescription processing.

[0351] In the drug supply device according to this embodiment, the storage unit 92 further stores the names of the drugs contained in each of the multiple cases 300. Based on the names of the drugs stored in the storage unit 92, the transport unit 400 can rearrange the multiple cases 300 so that the drugs contained in each of the multiple cases 300 are arranged alphabetically in the case rack 200. This makes it easier to find the case 300 containing the required drug when manually removing a case 300 from the case rack 200.

[0352] In the drug supply device according to this embodiment, the storage unit 92 further stores the therapeutic effects of the drugs contained in each of the multiple cases 300. Based on the therapeutic effects of the drugs stored in the storage unit 92, the transport unit 400 can rearrange the multiple cases 300 so that the drugs contained in each of the multiple cases 300 are arranged in order of therapeutic effect in the case rack 200. This makes it easier to find the case 300 containing the required drug when manually removing a case 300 from the case rack 200.

[0353] In the drug supply device according to this embodiment, the storage unit 92 can store the current arrangement of multiple cases 300 in the case rack 200 as a new arrangement pattern included in the above multiple arrangement patterns. This makes it possible to easily register arrangement patterns according to the situation.

[0354] In the drug supply device according to this embodiment, when the transport unit 400 transports a selection case 300a from the case rack 200, it transports the selection case 300a from the case rack 200 only when the identification information carried on the identification code 350 of the selection case 300a is acquired by the code reader 470. When the transport unit 400 transports a selection case 300a stored in a section where the storage positions of multiple cases 300 are unknown after switching from an open state to a closed state, if the identification information carried on the identification code 350 of the selection case 300a is not acquired by the code reader 470, the transport unit 400 moves along the arrangement of multiple cases 300 only in the section where the storage positions are unknown, thereby determining the storage positions of multiple cases 300 in the section where the storage positions are unknown. This reduces the number of times the operation to determine the storage location of case 300 is performed, compared to the case where the operation to determine the storage location of case 300 is always performed for sections where the storage location is unknown before removing the selected case 300a.

[0355] In the drug supply device according to this embodiment, when the transport unit 400 transports a selected case 300a from the multiple mounting sections 130 to a section where the storage positions of multiple cases 300 are unknown after switching from an open state to a closed state, the transport unit 400 moves along the arrangement of the multiple cases 300 only in the section where the storage positions are unknown, thereby determining the storage positions of the multiple cases 300 in the section where the storage positions are unknown. This prevents the transport unit 400 from returning the selected case 300a to a position in the case rack 200 where a case 300 is already placed.

[0356] In the drug supply device according to this embodiment, the lower part 280 of the case rack 200a is provided so that it can be pulled out forward from the main body of the case rack 200a. As a result, when the lower part 280 of the case rack 200a is pulled out forward from the main body of the case rack 200a, the inside of the case rack 200a can be accessed from the front, making it easy to maintain the drug supply device.

[0357] In the drug supply device according to this embodiment, the lower part 280 of the case rack 200a is movable in the front-rear direction by a slide rail 281. This makes it possible to pull out the lower part 280 of the case rack 200a forward from the main body of the case rack 200a with a simple configuration.

[0358] In the drug supply device according to this embodiment, a circuit board 290 is provided in the lower part 280 of the case rack 200a. This allows the control of electronic components located in the lower part 280 of the case rack 200a to be performed by the circuit board 290. The circuit board 290 is located in the upper part of the lower part 280 of the case rack 200a and is covered by a cover. Therefore, maintenance of the circuit board 290 can be performed more easily compared to when the circuit board 290 is located in a different place.

[0359] In the drug supply device according to this embodiment, the circuit board 290 is electrically connected to the control unit 90 through a drawer connector 291 provided on the lower part 280 of the case rack 200a and a drawer connector 292 provided on the main body of the case rack 200a. As a result, the circuit board 290 can be easily electrically connected to the control unit 90 simply by returning the lower part 280 of the case rack 200a, which had been pulled out, back into the main body of the case rack 200a.

[0360] (Note) Those skilled in the art will understand that the exemplary embodiments described above are specific examples of the following embodiments.

[0361] (Section 1) A case rack that stores multiple cases containing pharmaceuticals, A selection case chosen from the aforementioned multiple cases can be placed on it, and there are multiple placement sections for inserting and removing the drug from the selection case, The system includes a transport unit that transports the selected cases between the case rack and the plurality of mounting sections, The aforementioned plurality of cases are arranged along a virtual plane perpendicular to the front-to-back direction in the case rack. The lower part of the case rack is provided with a drug supply device that can be pulled out forward from the main body of the case rack.

[0362] (Section 2) The drug supply device according to paragraph 1, wherein the lower part of the case rack is movable in the front-rear direction by a slide rail.

[0363] (Section 3) The drug supply device according to the first or second paragraph, wherein a circuit board is provided in the lower part of the case rack.

[0364] (Section 4) It further includes a control unit, The drug supply device according to paragraph 3, wherein the circuit board is electrically connected to the control unit through drawer connectors provided on the lower part of the case rack and the main body, respectively.

[0365] 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]

[0366] 1 Drug supply device, 10 First proximity sensor, 11 Position detection sensor, 12 Electromagnet, 13 Second proximity sensor, 90 Control unit, 91 Inventory quantity tracking unit, 92 Memory unit, 93 Calculation unit, 94 Recording unit, 100 Dispensing counter unit, 110, 210, 410 Housing, 111, 131h, 132b, 222 Opening, 112 Storage space, 113 Guide rail, 114 Support roller, 115 Contact part, 116 Pressing roller, 120 Dispensing counter, 130 Placement part, 310b Bottom part, 131 Base part, 131a Dog, 131p Adsorption part, 131r Roller, 132 Wall part, 132c, 321 Protrusion, 132d, 313 Projection 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, 200a Case rack, 220 Shelf section, 221 Guide wall, 223 Stopper, 224 Guard, 224b Contact surface section, 225 Support plate, 226, 228, 430 Rotating shaft, 227 Torsion spring, 230 Workbench, 231 Push-open mechanism, 240 Opening / closing door, 250 Second opening / closing detection unit, 251 First opening / closing detection unit, 260 Locking unit, 270 Position detection unit, 271 Photoelectric sensor, 272 Reflector, 280 Lower part, 281 Slide rail, 290 Circuit board, 291, 292 Drawer connector, 300 Case, 300a Selectable case, 310 Case body, 310f Front wall, 310r Rear wall, 310s Side wall, 311 Transparent support part, 312 Step part, 314 Recess, 314f Front wall surface, 314s Side wall surface, 315,316 Groove, 317 Slit, 318 Engaging part, 320 Fractional storage part, 330 Partition plate, 340,350 Identification code, 400 Transport unit, 420 Motor, 440 Support arm, 450 Claw part, 460 Push plate, 490 Butt part, 500 Horizontal movement mechanism, 600 Vertical movement mechanism, 630 Connection attachment, 700 Commercial power supply, 710 First power supply unit, 720 Second power supply unit, 730 Relay, 740 Load unit, PLD, PLU, PRD, PRU Section, R130 Mounting area, R160 Display area, R400 Mode switching area, RC Selection area, RD Prescription data area, RE Completion area, S230 Storage space.

Claims

1. A case rack that stores multiple cases containing pharmaceuticals, A selection case chosen from the aforementioned multiple cases can be placed on it, and there are multiple placement sections for inserting and removing the drug from the selection case, The system includes a transport unit that transports the selected cases between the case rack and the plurality of mounting sections, The aforementioned plurality of cases are arranged along a virtual plane perpendicular to the front-to-back direction in the case rack. The lower part of the case rack is provided with a drug supply device that can be pulled out forward from the main body of the case rack.

2. The drug supply device according to claim 1, wherein the lower part of the case rack is movable in the front-rear direction by a slide rail.

3. A drug supply device according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein a circuit board is provided in the lower part of the case rack.

4. It further includes a control unit, The drug supply device according to claim 3, wherein the circuit board is electrically connected to the control unit through drawer connectors provided on the lower part of the case rack and the main body, respectively.

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