Powder inspection apparatus and powder inspection method

Abstract

To provide means capable of efficiently inspecting powder flowing in an internal space of a pipe body.SOLUTION: A powder inspection device 10 includes: a pipe body 11 having an inflow port 21; a supply valve 22, a first butterfly valve 23, a second butterfly valve 24, and a switching valve 25 that are located in an internal space 20 of the pipe body 11; a branch pipe 12 for partitioning a branch flow passage branched from a branch position P; a powder sensor 13 for detecting powder; and a spectrophotometer 14 for measuring the powder.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to the inspection of powder flowing through the internal space of a tubular body. [Background Art]

[0002] In the manufacture of pharmaceuticals, particularly oral solid preparations, there are processes such as powder mixing, granulation, drying, and tableting. There are batch-type processes for performing each of these steps, and processes in which each step is continuously connected and performed. In each step, the intermediate product after the step is inspected to determine whether the step has been performed normally. For example, the quality of a mixture of various powders, which are raw materials for tablets, is inspected by a spectrometer.

[0003] In a batch-type process, intermediate products are sampled after each step to check quality, whereas in a continuous process, high-frequency quality measurement via mechanical control makes it possible to prevent defective quality at an early stage. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses means for inspecting powder in a continuous process. In the continuous production system described in Patent Document 1, a sensor detects whether the powder accumulated in an inspection chamber has reached a predetermined height through a path connected to the inspection chamber; after the powder reaches the predetermined height, the path connected to the inspection chamber is closed to perform inspection; after the powder is discharged following inspection, the closure of the path connected to the inspection chamber is released. [Prior Art Documents] [Patent Documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent No. 6578456 [Summary of the Invention] [Problem to be Solved by the Invention]

[0005] In the continuous production system described in Patent Document 1, powder inspection is performed for each certain amount of powder accumulated in the inspection chamber. Furthermore, until the blockage of the pathway is released, the next powder to be inspected cannot flow into the inspection chamber and accumulate.

[0006] Furthermore, when a certain amount of powder accumulated in a testing room or similar area moves along a pathway, if a clump of powder obstructs the pathway, fluctuations in air pressure may occur along the pathway as the clump moves. Such fluctuations in air pressure may make it difficult for the clump of powder to move along the pathway, or the clump may cause a powder blockage in the downstream pathway after the inspection. In addition, if the manner in which the powder moves changes, the bulk density of the powder may change, which may affect the inspection by spectroscopic measurement.

[0007] This invention has been made in view of the circumstances described above, and its purpose is to provide a means for efficiently inspecting powder flowing through the internal space of a pipe.

[0008] Another object of the present invention is to provide a means for efficiently inspecting powder flowing through the internal space of a tube and for facilitating the movement of powder through the internal space of a tube. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] (1) The powder inspection apparatus according to the present invention comprises a pipe having a powder inlet, a supply valve located in the internal space of the pipe and opening and closing the internal space, a first valve located downstream of the supply valve in the internal space of the pipe and opening and closing the internal space, a second valve located downstream of the first valve in the internal space of the pipe and opening and closing the internal space, a branch pipe that demarcates a branched flow path branched from a branching position downstream of the second valve in the internal space of the pipe, a switching valve located at the branching position, a powder sensor that detects powder between the supply valve and the first valve in the internal space of the pipe, and a measuring instrument that analyzes powder between the first valve and the second valve in the internal space of the pipe.

[0010] In the internal space of the pipe, while the powder accumulated between the first valve and the second valve is being inspected by the measuring instrument, the next powder to be inspected accumulates between the supply valve and the first valve, allowing for efficient inspection of the powder flowing through the internal space of the pipe.

[0011] (2) The internal space of the above-mentioned pipe may extend along the vertical direction as the downward downstream side.

[0012] Due to gravity, the powder flows downwards through the internal space of the tube.

[0013] (3) The powder inspection device further comprises a controller, which, with the supply valve and the first valve in the closed position, may, based on the detection signal of powder detected by the powder sensor, open the first valve with the second valve in the closed position, and with the first valve and the second valve in the closed position, receive a measurement signal output by the measuring instrument, and, in accordance with the received measurement signal, open the second valve with the switching valve in a position where the internal space of the pipe is continuous, or where the internal space of the pipe and the branched flow path are connected.

[0014] The controller controls the operation of the supply valve, the first valve, the second valve, and the switching valve.

[0015] (4) The controller may, in response to the measurement signal, open the second valve, open the supply valve, and close the first valve.

[0016] (5) The tube further comprises a translucent window located in the wall between the first valve and the second valve in the internal space of the tube, and a nozzle that blows air into the window in the internal space of the tube, and the measuring instrument may measure the powder from outside the tube through the window.

[0017] The measuring instrument is positioned outside the tube. Powder adhering to the window inside the tube is removed by air blown in by the nozzle.

[0018] (6) The pipe may further have a first communication port that connects the space between the supply valve and the first valve in the internal space of the pipe with the outside, and a second communication port that connects the space between the first valve and the second valve in the internal space of the pipe with the outside.

[0019] Since air can flow out of the internal space of the pipe through the first or second communication port, pressure fluctuations are less likely to occur in the internal space when powder moves through the internal space of the pipe.

[0020] (7) The present invention may also be understood as a powder inspection method in which a supply valve located in the internal space of a pipe having a powder inlet is set to open and close the internal space, and a first valve located downstream of the supply valve in the internal space is set to the closed position, and a powder sensor located between the supply valve and the first valve outputs a detection signal indicating that powder has been detected, and the first valve is set to the open position with the second valve located downstream of the first valve in the internal space in the closed position, and the powder between the first valve and the second valve is analyzed by a measuring instrument with the first valve and the second valve in the closed position, and in accordance with the measurement signal, a switching valve located downstream of the second valve in the internal space is switched to a position where the internal space is continuous or to a position where the internal space is connected to a branched flow path.

[0021] (8) The powder inspection apparatus according to the present invention comprises a pipe having a powder inlet, a supply valve located in the internal space of the pipe and opening and closing the internal space, a first valve located downstream of the supply valve in the internal space of the pipe and opening and closing the internal space, a second valve located downstream of the first valve in the internal space of the pipe and opening and closing the internal space, a branch pipe that demarcates a branched flow path branched from a branching position downstream of the second valve in the internal space of the pipe, and a switching valve located at the branching position. The device comprises a lubricant, a powder sensor for detecting powder in a first chamber between the supply valve and the first valve in the internal space of the tube, a measuring instrument for measuring powder in a second chamber between the first valve and the second valve in the internal space of the tube, a first communication port in the first chamber that penetrates the tube and connects the first chamber to the outside, a second communication port in the second chamber that penetrates the tube and connects the second chamber to the outside, a first filter that blocks the first communication port, and a second filter that blocks the second communication port. The first and second filters allow gas to pass through but prevent powder from passing through.

[0022] In the internal space of the pipe, while the powder stored in the second chamber is being inspected by the measuring instrument, the powder to be inspected next accumulates in the first chamber, allowing for efficient inspection of the powder flowing through the internal space of the pipe. Furthermore, when the supply valve and the second valve are closed, gas flows in or out from the first and second communication ports as the powder moves from the first to the second chamber, making it difficult for pressure fluctuations to occur in the first and second chambers. As a result, the powder moves easily from the first to the second chamber, is less prone to clogging, and changes in bulk density are less likely to occur even if the powder changes its form as it moves. In addition, it is prevented from the first and second chambers flowing out to the outside through the first and second communication ports.

[0023] (9) The first filter may be detachable from the first communication port, and the second filter may be detachable from the second communication port.

[0024] The first filter and the second filter can be easily replaced.

[0025] (10) The internal space of the tubular body may extend in the vertical direction with the downstream side facing downward.

[0026] The powder flows downward through the internal space of the tubular body by gravity.

[0027] (11) The powder inspection apparatus further includes a controller, wherein, in a state where the supply valve and the first valve are set to closed positions, the controller sets the first valve to an open position while keeping the second valve in a closed position based on a detection signal indicating detection of powder output by the powder sensor; and in a state where the first valve and the second valve are set to closed positions, the controller receives a measurement signal output by the measuring instrument, and according to the received measurement signal, the controller may set the second valve to an open position in a state where the switching valve is positioned at a position where the internal space of the tubular body is continuous or at a position where the internal space of the tubular body communicates with the branch flow path.

[0028] Driving of the supply valve, the first valve, the second valve, and the switching valve is controlled by the controller.

[0029] (12) The controller may set the second valve to an open position, set the supply valve to an open position, and set the first valve to a closed position in accordance with the measurement signal.

[0030] (13) A powder circulation device according to the present invention includes: a tubular body having a powder inlet; a valve positioned in an internal space of the tubular body and configured to open and close the internal space; a branch pipe that defines a branch flow path branched from a branch position downstream of the valve in the internal space of the tubular body; a switching valve positioned at the branch position; a communication port that penetrates the tubular body and communicates the internal space with the outside; and a filter that closes the communication port. The filter allows gas to pass through but does not allow powder to pass through.

[0031] When powder accumulated on the valve in the closed position moves through the internal space of the pipe as the valve opens, gas flows in or out through the communication port, making it difficult for pressure fluctuations to occur within the internal space of the pipe. As a result, powder clogging is less likely to occur within the internal space of the pipe. In addition, it is prevented from powder flowing out of the internal space of the pipe to the outside through the communication port.

[0032] (14) The internal space of the tube may be further equipped with a powder sensor for detecting powder.

[0033] (15) The internal space of the tube may be further equipped with a measuring instrument for measuring powder. [Effects of the Invention]

[0034] According to the present invention, powder flowing through the internal space of a pipe can be efficiently inspected.

[0035] Furthermore, according to the present invention, powder flowing through the internal space of a tube can be efficiently inspected, and the powder moves easily through the internal space of the tube. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0036] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a block diagram showing a continuous production system 100 according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram showing a powder inspection apparatus 10 according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a block diagram showing the controller 15 according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a flowchart showing the operation of the powder inspection apparatus 10 according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram showing the powder inspection device 10 in step S11. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram showing the powder inspection device 10 in step S13. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram showing the powder inspection device 10 in step S17. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram showing the powder inspection device 10 in step S19. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a schematic diagram showing the powder inspection device 10 in step S20. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a block diagram showing the continuous production system 200 according to the second embodiment. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a schematic diagram showing the powder inspection apparatus 10A according to the second embodiment. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing the first communication port 28 and the first filter 36. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is a block diagram showing the controller 15 according to the second embodiment. [Figure 14] Figure 14 is a flowchart showing the operation of the powder inspection device 10A according to the second embodiment. [Figure 15] Figure 15 is a schematic diagram showing the powder inspection device 10A in step S11. [Figure 16] Figure 16 is a schematic diagram showing the powder inspection device 10A in step S13. [Figure 17] Figure 17 is a schematic diagram showing the powder inspection device 10A in step S17. [Figure 18] Figure 18 is a schematic diagram showing the powder inspection device 10A in step S19. [Figure 19] Figure 19 is a schematic diagram showing the powder inspection device 10A in step S20. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0037] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings as appropriate. It should be noted that the embodiments described below are merely examples of the present invention, and the embodiments of the present invention can be modified as appropriate without altering the essence of the invention.

[0038] [First Embodiment] Figure 1 shows a continuous tablet production system 100. The continuous production system 100 includes a mixing device 101 for mixing raw material powders, a granulating device 102 for granulating the mixed raw materials, a drying device 103 for drying the granulated material, a mixing device 104 for mixing the dried granules, a tableting device 105 for compressing the mixed granules into tablets, and a coating device 106 for coating the compressed tablets. Note that each device is an example, and the devices may be changed or added or removed. The mixing device 101 and the granulating device 102 are connected by a flow path through which the powder flows. The raw materials (powder) mixed in the mixing device 101 are sent to the granulating device 102 through the flow path. Other devices are connected to each other by similar flow paths.

[0039] A powder inspection device 10 is located in the flow path between the mixing device 101 and the granulation device 102. The powder inspection device 10 may also be located in the flow path for granulated material or other powders. Furthermore, the continuous production system 100 does not necessarily require each device to be connected in series; for example, multiple mixing devices 101 and granulation devices 102 may be connected by multiple flow paths.

[0040] As shown in Figure 2, the powder inspection device 10 comprises a pipe 11, a branch pipe 12, a powder sensor 13, a spectrometer 14 (an example of a measuring instrument), and a controller 15 (see Figure 3).

[0041] The pipe 11 is a cylindrical tube that extends straight along the vertical direction 7. The internal space 20 of the pipe 11 is the space through which the powder flows. The upper end of the pipe 11 is an inlet 21 for the powder mixed in the mixing device 101 to flow into the internal space 20. The inlet 21 does not need to be directly connected to the mixing device 101; for example, it may be connected to a hopper where the powder mixed by the mixing device 101 is stored. In the internal space 20, as indicated by arrow 6, the powder flows downward from top to bottom. The lower end of the pipe 11 is continuous with the flow path leading to the granulator 102.

[0042] A branch pipe 12 is connected to the main pipe 11 at branching position P. The branch pipe 12 is a circular pipe that extends from branching position P in a direction intersecting the vertical direction 7. The inner diameter of the branch pipe 12 may be approximately the same as the inner diameter of the main pipe 11, or it may be smaller or larger than the inner diameter of the main pipe 11. The internal space 30 of the branch pipe 12 is a branching flow path. At branching position P, the internal space 30 of the branch pipe 12 is continuous with the internal space 20 of the main pipe 11. The extended end of the branch pipe 12 is connected to a tank (not shown) for storing powder that has been determined to be non-compliant in inspection.

[0043] The internal space 20 of the pipe body 11 contains, in order from the upstream side, a supply valve 22, a first butterfly valve 23 (an example of a first valve), a second butterfly valve 24 (an example of a second valve), and a switching valve 25.

[0044] The supply valve 22 is located upstream of the branching position P in the internal space 20 of the pipe body 11. The supply valve 22 is a butterfly valve in which a disc rotates around an axis perpendicular to the vertical direction 7 (in this embodiment, the direction perpendicular to the plane of the paper in Figure 2), but the supply valve 22 may be a valve other than a butterfly valve, such as a rotary valve. The shaft 22A of the supply valve 22 is rotated by a valve motor (not shown). The drive of the valve motor is controlled by a controller 15.

[0045] The supply valve 22 is rotatable between an open position (shown by a dashed line in Figure 2) that opens the internal space 20 of the pipe body 11 in the vertical direction 7, and a closed position (shown by a solid line in Figure 2) that closes the internal space 20 in the vertical direction 7. When the supply valve 22 is in the open position, the powder that flows into the internal space 20 from the inlet 21 flows downstream of the supply valve 22. When the supply valve 22 is in the closed position, the powder that flows into the internal space 20 from the inlet 21 remains upstream of the supply valve 22.

[0046] The first butterfly valve 23 is located upstream of the branching point P and downstream of the supply valve 22 in the internal space 20 of the pipe body 11. The first butterfly valve 23 is a butterfly valve in which a disc rotates about an axis in a direction perpendicular to the vertical direction 7 (in this embodiment, the direction perpendicular to the plane of the paper in Figure 2). The axis 23A of the first butterfly valve 23 is rotated by a valve motor (not shown). The drive of the valve motor is controlled by a controller 15.

[0047] The first butterfly valve 23 is rotatable between an open position (shown by a dashed line in Figure 2) that opens the internal space 20 of the pipe body 11 in the vertical direction 7, and a closed position (shown by a solid line in Figure 2) that closes the internal space 20 in the vertical direction 7. When the first butterfly valve 23 is in the open position, the powder that flows into the internal space 20 from the inlet 21 flows downstream from the first butterfly valve 23. When the first butterfly valve 23 is in the closed position, the powder that flows into the internal space 20 from the inlet 21 accumulates upstream from the first butterfly valve 23. When both the supply valve 22 and the first butterfly valve 23 are in the closed position, the internal space 20 is partitioned by the supply valve 22 and the first butterfly valve 23 to form a storage chamber 31. A certain amount of powder can be stored in the storage chamber 31 by the accumulation of powder on the first butterfly valve 23 in the closed position.

[0048] The second butterfly valve 24 is located upstream of the branching point P and downstream of the first butterfly valve 23 in the internal space 20 of the pipe body 11. The second butterfly valve 24 is a butterfly valve in which a disc rotates around an axis perpendicular to the vertical direction 7 (in this embodiment, the direction perpendicular to the plane of the paper in Figure 2). The axis 24A of the second butterfly valve 24 is rotated by a valve motor (not shown). The drive of the valve motor is controlled by a controller 15.

[0049] The second butterfly valve 24 is rotatable between an open position (shown by a dashed line in Figure 2) that opens the internal space 20 of the pipe body 11 in the vertical direction 7, and a closed position (shown by a solid line in Figure 2) that closes the internal space 20 in the vertical direction 7. When the second butterfly valve 24 is in the open position, the powder that flows into the internal space 20 from the inlet 21 flows downstream from the second butterfly valve 24. When the second butterfly valve 24 is in the closed position, the powder that flows into the internal space 20 from the inlet 21 accumulates upstream from the second butterfly valve 24. When both the first butterfly valve 23 and the second butterfly valve 24 are in the closed position, the internal space 20 is partitioned by the first butterfly valve 23 and the second butterfly valve 24 to form an inspection chamber 32. A certain amount of powder can be stored in the inspection chamber 32 by the accumulation of powder on the second butterfly valve 24 in the closed position.

[0050] The switching valve 25 is located at the branching position P in the internal space 20 of the pipe body 11. The switching valve 25 has a disc that can close both the internal space 20 of the pipe body 11 and the internal space 30 of the branch pipe 12, and is rotatable between a normal position that closes the internal space 30 of the branch pipe 12 (shown by a solid line in Figure 2) and a switching position that closes the internal space 20 of the pipe body 11 (shown by a dashed line in Figure 2). The switching valve 25 is rotated by a valve motor (not shown). The drive of the valve motor is controlled by a controller 15.

[0051] In its normal position, the switching valve 25 connects the internal space 20 of the pipe 11 upstream of branching point P with the internal space 20 of the pipe 11 downstream of branching point P. In other words, when the switching valve 25 is in its normal position, the powder flowing through the internal space 20 of the pipe 11 can pass through branching point P. In its switched position, the switching valve 25 connects the internal space 20 of the pipe 11 upstream of branching point P with the internal space 30 of the branch pipe 12. In other words, when the switching valve 25 is in the switched position, the powder flowing through the internal space 20 of the pipe 11 flows from the internal space 20 to the internal space 30 at branching point P.

[0052] A window 26 is located in the wall that partitions the storage chamber 31 within the pipe body 11. The window 26 is a through-hole that penetrates the wall and is sealed with a light-transmitting material such as glass. A powder sensor 13 is located outside the pipe body 11, to the side of the window 26. The powder sensor 13 is an optical sensor such as a laser sensor or an ultrasonic sensor. If the powder sensor 13 is a laser sensor, it irradiates laser light into the storage chamber 31 through the window 26 and obtains reflected light. The powder sensor 13 outputs a detection signal based on the obtained reflected light to the controller 15. Since the reflected light differs depending on whether or not powder has accumulated to the side of the window 26 in the storage chamber 31, the controller 15 can determine whether or not powder has accumulated to the side of the window 26 in the storage chamber 31 based on the detection signal received from the powder sensor 13. In this embodiment, there is only one window 26, but in order to change the amount of powder deposited in the storage chamber 31, multiple windows 26 and powder sensors 13 may be provided at different positions in the vertical direction 7.

[0053] A nozzle 27 is positioned to the side of the window 26 in the internal space 20 of the pipe 11. The nozzle 27 sprays air toward the window 26. The operation of the nozzle 27 is controlled by the controller 15. By spraying air toward the window 26, the nozzle 27 blows away any powder adhering to the window 26 in the internal space 20.

[0054] A first communication port 28 is located in the wall that partitions the storage chamber 31 within the pipe body 11. The first communication port 28 is located above the window 26. The first communication port 28 penetrates the wall and connects the internal space 20 to the outside. Air from the storage chamber 31 can flow out to the outside through the first communication port 28. A filter for capturing powder may be provided at the first communication port 28.

[0055] A window 33 is located in the wall that partitions the inspection chamber 32 within the tube 11. The window 33 is a through-hole that penetrates the wall and is sealed with a light-transmitting material such as glass. A spectrometer 14 is located outside the tube 11, to the side of the window 33. The spectrometer 14 measures spectral information for near-infrared excitation light. The spectrometer 14 irradiates the inspection chamber 32 with near-infrared light through the window 33 and obtains reflected light. The spectrometer 14 outputs the spectral information of the obtained reflected light as a measurement signal to the controller 15. Since the spectral information for near-infrared light differs depending on the chemical and physical properties of the powder deposited in the inspection chamber 32, the controller 15 can determine whether the inspection is successful or not based on the measurement signal received from the spectrometer 14, depending on whether the chemical and physical properties of the powder deposited in the inspection chamber 32 are within a predetermined threshold range. The spectrometer 14 may also measure the spectrum of excitation light scattered by irradiation with visible light or ultraviolet light.

[0056] A nozzle 34 is positioned to the side of the window 33 in the internal space 20 of the pipe 11. The nozzle 34 sprays air toward the window 33. The operation of the nozzle 34 is controlled by the controller 15. By spraying air toward the window 33, the nozzle 34 blows away any powder adhering to the window 33 in the internal space 20.

[0057] A second communication opening 35 is located in the wall that partitions the inspection chamber 32 within the pipe 11. The second communication opening 35 is located above the window 33. The second communication opening 35 penetrates the wall and connects the internal space 20 to the outside. Air from the inspection chamber 32 can flow out to the outside through the second communication opening 35. A filter for capturing powder may be provided in the second communication opening 35.

[0058] As shown in Figure 3, the controller 15 is connected to the supply valve 22, the first butterfly valve 23, the second butterfly valve 24, and the valve motor (not shown) that drives the switching valve 25, as well as the powder sensor 13, the spectrometer 14, and the ejectors 27 and 34, via a communication bus 29 to send and receive electrical signals. The controller 15 consists of a CPU, ROM, RAM, etc., and stores programs and threshold ranges necessary for controlling the powder inspection device 10.

[0059] [Operation of the powder inspection device 10] The powder inspection device 10 is controlled to operate based on a program stored in the controller 15. Also, at the start of operation, the switching valve 25 is in its normal position.

[0060] As shown in Figure 4, when the controller 15 starts control, it opens the supply valve 22 and closes the first butterfly valve 23 (S11). As a result, as shown in Figure 5, the powder that flows into the internal space 20 of the pipe 11 from the inlet 21 accumulates on the first butterfly valve 23.

[0061] The controller 15 monitors whether the powder accumulated on the first butterfly valve 23 has been detected by the powder sensor 13 based on the detection signal from the powder sensor 13 (S12: No). In response to receiving a detection signal from the powder sensor 13 indicating that powder has been detected (S12: Yes), the controller 15 determines that a certain amount of powder has accumulated in the storage chamber 31.

[0062] When the controller 15 determines that a certain amount of powder has accumulated in the storage chamber 31, it closes the supply valve 22 and the second butterfly valve 24, and opens the first butterfly valve 23, as shown in Figure 6 (S13). As a result, the powder accumulated in the storage chamber 31 flows into the inspection chamber 32 and accumulates on the second butterfly valve 24. As the powder flows, outside air flows into the storage chamber 31 through the first communication port 28, and air flows out from the inspection chamber 32 to the outside through the second communication port 35. This suppresses pressure fluctuations in the storage chamber 31 and the inspection chamber 32 due to the flow of powder, and prevents so-called bridging, where the powder accumulated on the second butterfly valve 24 forms an arch structure and blocks the internal space 20.

[0063] Furthermore, after closing the first butterfly valve 23 (S14), the controller 15 drives the sprayer 27 for a predetermined time (S15). The air sprayed from the sprayer 27 blows away the powder adhering to the window 26 downwards. Also, when the first butterfly valve 23 is in the closed position, the inspection chamber 32 becomes a closed space.

[0064] Furthermore, after driving the ejector 27 (S15), the controller 15 opens the supply valve 22 (S16). As a result, as shown in Figure 7, while the powder is being inspected in the inspection chamber 32, the powder flows from the inlet 21 into the internal space 20 of the pipe 11, and the powder to be inspected next accumulates on the first butterfly valve 23.

[0065] As shown in Figure 7, the controller 15 drives the spectrometer 14 to perform a spectroscopic measurement on the enclosed inspection chamber 32 (S17). The spectrometer 14 outputs spectral information of the reflected light to near-infrared light as a measurement signal to the controller 15. Based on the received measurement signal, the controller 15 determines whether the powder inspection is successful or not based on whether the spectral information is within a predetermined threshold range (S18).

[0066] In response to determining that the powder inspection is satisfactory (S18: Yes), the controller 15 opens the second butterfly valve 24 as shown in Figure 8 (S19). At this time, the switching valve 25 is in its normal position, so the powder that has flowed downstream from the inspection chamber 32 passes through the branching point P in the internal space 20 of the pipe 11 and heads towards the granulator 102. Subsequently, the controller 15 sets the switching valve 25 to the switching position (S20).

[0067] In response to determining that the powder inspection was unsuccessful (S18: No), the controller 15 sets the switching valve 25 to the switching position (S21) as shown in Figure 9, and then sets the second butterfly valve 24 to the open position (S22). As a result, the powder that flowed downstream from the inspection chamber 32 enters the internal space 30 of the branch pipe 12 from the internal space of the pipe body 11 at the branching position P, and heads toward a tank not shown. In other words, powder that fails the inspection does not go toward the granulator 102.

[0068] Furthermore, after step S20 or step S22 (S22), the controller 15 drives the ejector 34 for a predetermined time (S23). The air ejected from the ejector 34 blows the powder adhering to the window 33 into the internal space 30 of the branch pipe 12. After that, the controller 15 closes the second butterfly valve 24 (S24) and returns the switching valve 25 to its normal position (S25).

[0069] If there is a next inspection (S26: Yes), the controller 15 returns to step S12. If there is no next inspection (S26: No), the controller 15 terminates the operation of the powder inspection device 10.

[0070] [Effects of the First Embodiment] According to the first embodiment, in the internal space 20 of the pipe 11, while the powder stored in the inspection chamber 32 between the first butterfly valve 23 and the second butterfly valve 24 is inspected by the spectrometer 14, the powder to be inspected next accumulates in the storage chamber 31 between the supply valve 22 and the first butterfly valve 23, so that the powder flowing through the internal space 20 of the pipe 11 can be inspected efficiently.

[0071] Furthermore, since the internal space 20 of the pipe 11 extends along the vertical direction 7 as the downward downstream side, gravity causes the powder to flow downward through the internal space 20 of the pipe 11.

[0072] Furthermore, the spectrometer 14 is located outside the tube 11. Also, powder adhering to the window 33 in the internal space 20 of the tube 11 is removed by air blown by the sprayer 34. Similarly, the powder sensor 13 is located outside the tube 11. Also, powder adhering to the window 26 in the internal space 20 of the tube 11 is removed by air blown by the sprayer 27.

[0073] Furthermore, since air can flow out of the internal space 20 of the pipe 11 through the first communication port 28 or the second communication port 35, pressure fluctuations are less likely to occur in the internal space 20 when powder moves through the internal space 20 of the pipe 11.

[0074] [Modified version of the first embodiment] In the first embodiment described above, the operation of the powder inspection device 10 is controlled based on a program stored in the controller 15. However, instead of a program, the powder inspection device 10 may be operated by input from an operator to an input interface. Furthermore, a controller for controlling various sensors such as the powder sensor 13 may be provided independently of the controller 15. In that case, the various sensors may be controlled by a separate controller, and information may be communicated between that controller and the controller 15 to control the operating timing. In addition, the spectral information output by the spectrometer 14 may be output to an external information device instead of the controller 15, and the calculation results from that external information device may be output to the controller 15.

[0075] Furthermore, the tube 11 does not necessarily have to extend along the vertical direction 7, and a part of the tube 11 may extend along other directions such as the horizontal direction, and the tube 11 may be bent. Also, the tube 11 does not necessarily have to be a continuous tube; for example, the tube 11 may be made up of multiple connected tubes. When the tube 11 is made up of multiple tubes, the multiple tubes may be connected by, for example, a flexible tube. For example, in a configuration in which a tube located upstream of the tube 11 and a tube located downstream are connected by a flexible tube, when vibration for shaking powder is applied to the upstream tube by a vibrator, the vibration is not transmitted to the downstream tube, and segregation of the powder components can be prevented in the downstream tube. Another advantage is that the powder is less likely to bridge.

[0076] Furthermore, the pipe 11 may be connected to a tank for storing powder that has been deemed unsuitable during inspection, and the branch pipe 12 may be connected to a granulator 102. In this case, the normal position and the switching position of the switching valve 25 will be reversed.

[0077] Alternatively, instead of an optical sensor, a contact-type level switch may be used as the powder sensor 13. In that case, the powder sensor 13 would be located inside the internal space 20 of the pipe 11, rather than outside. Also, the window 26 and the sprayer 27 may be omitted.

[0078] Furthermore, the powders inspected by the powder inspection device 10 are not limited to those used in solid pharmaceuticals such as tablets and capsules, but may also be powders used in food products, for example.

[0079] [Second Embodiment] A second embodiment of the present invention will now be described. In the second embodiment, a powder inspection device 10A is used instead of the powder inspection device 10 in the first embodiment. The powder inspection device 10A differs from the powder inspection device 10 in that a first filter 36 is provided in the first communication port 28, and a second filter 37 is provided in the second communication port 35. In the second embodiment, the same reference numerals are used for the same components as in the first embodiment.

[0080] Figure 10 shows a continuous tablet production system 100 according to the second embodiment. The continuous production system 100 includes a mixing device 101 for mixing raw material powders, a granulating device 102 for granulating the mixed raw materials, a drying device 103 for drying the granulated material, a mixing device 104 for mixing the dried granulated material, a tableting device 105 for compressing the mixed granules into tablets, and a coating device 106 for coating the compressed tablets. Note that each device is an example, and the devices may be changed or added or removed. The mixing device 101 and the granulating device 102 are connected by a flow path through which the powder flows. The raw materials (powder) mixed in the mixing device 101 are sent to the granulating device 102 through the flow path. Other devices are connected to each other by similar flow paths.

[0081] A powder inspection device 10A is located in the flow path between the mixing device 101 and the granulation device 102. The powder inspection device 10A may also be located in the flow path for granulated material or other powders. Furthermore, the continuous production system 100 does not necessarily require each device to be connected in series; for example, multiple mixing devices 101 and granulation devices 102 may be connected by multiple flow paths.

[0082] As shown in Figure 11, the powder inspection device 10A comprises a pipe 11, a branch pipe 12, a powder sensor 13, a spectrometer 14 (an example of a measuring instrument), and a controller 15 (see Figure 13).

[0083] The pipe 11 is a cylindrical tube that extends straight along the vertical direction 7. The internal space 20 of the pipe 11 is the space through which the powder flows. The upper end of the pipe 11 is an inlet 21 for the powder mixed in the mixing device 101 to flow into the internal space 20. The inlet 21 does not need to be directly connected to the mixing device 101; for example, it may be connected to a hopper where the powder mixed by the mixing device 101 is stored. In the internal space 20, as indicated by arrow 6, the powder flows downward from top to bottom. The lower end of the pipe 11 is continuous with the flow path leading to the granulator 102.

[0084] A branch pipe 12 is connected to the main pipe 11 at branching position P. The branch pipe 12 is a circular pipe that extends from branching position P in a direction intersecting the vertical direction 7. The inner diameter of the branch pipe 12 may be approximately the same as the inner diameter of the main pipe 11, or it may be smaller or larger than the inner diameter of the main pipe 11. The internal space 30 of the branch pipe 12 is a branching flow path. At branching position P, the internal space 30 of the branch pipe 12 is continuous with the internal space 20 of the main pipe 11. The extended end of the branch pipe 12 is connected to a tank (not shown) for storing powder that has been determined to be non-compliant in inspection.

[0085] The internal space 20 of the pipe body 11 contains, in order from the upstream side, a supply valve 22, a first butterfly valve 23 (an example of a first valve), a second butterfly valve 24 (an example of a second valve), and a switching valve 25.

[0086] The supply valve 22 is located upstream of the branching position P in the internal space 20 of the pipe body 11. The supply valve 22 is a butterfly valve in which a disc rotates around an axis perpendicular to the vertical direction 7 (in this embodiment, the direction perpendicular to the plane of the paper in Figure 11), but the supply valve 22 may be a valve other than a butterfly valve, such as a rotary valve. The shaft 22A of the supply valve 22 is rotated by a valve motor (not shown). The drive of the valve motor is controlled by a controller 15.

[0087] The supply valve 22 is rotatable between an open position (shown by a dashed line in Figure 11) that opens the internal space 20 of the pipe body 11 in the vertical direction 7, and a closed position (shown by a solid line in Figure 11) that closes the internal space 20 in the vertical direction 7. When the supply valve 22 is in the open position, the powder that flows into the internal space 20 from the inlet 21 flows downstream of the supply valve 22. When the supply valve 22 is in the closed position, the powder that flows into the internal space 20 from the inlet 21 remains upstream of the supply valve 22.

[0088] The first butterfly valve 23 is located upstream of the branching point P and downstream of the supply valve 22 in the internal space 20 of the pipe body 11. The first butterfly valve 23 is a butterfly valve in which a disc rotates about an axis in a direction perpendicular to the vertical direction 7 (in this embodiment, the direction perpendicular to the plane of the paper in Figure 11). The axis 23A of the first butterfly valve 23 is rotated by a valve motor (not shown). The drive of the valve motor is controlled by a controller 15.

[0089] The first butterfly valve 23 is rotatable between an open position (shown by a dashed line in Figure 11) that opens the internal space 20 of the pipe body 11 to the vertical direction 7, and a closed position (shown by a solid line in Figure 11) that closes the internal space 20 to the vertical direction 7. When the first butterfly valve 23 is in the open position, the powder that flows into the internal space 20 from the inlet 21 flows downstream from the first butterfly valve 23. When the first butterfly valve 23 is in the closed position, the powder that flows into the internal space 20 from the inlet 21 accumulates upstream from the first butterfly valve 23. When both the supply valve 22 and the first butterfly valve 23 are in the closed position, the internal space 20 is partitioned by the supply valve 22 and the first butterfly valve 23 to form a storage chamber 31 (an example of the first chamber). A certain amount of powder can be stored in the storage chamber 31 by the accumulation of powder on the first butterfly valve 23 in the closed position.

[0090] The second butterfly valve 24 is located upstream of the branching point P and downstream of the first butterfly valve 23 in the internal space 20 of the pipe body 11. The second butterfly valve 24 is a butterfly valve in which a disc rotates around an axis perpendicular to the vertical direction 7 (in this embodiment, the direction perpendicular to the plane of the paper in Figure 11). The axis 24A of the second butterfly valve 24 is rotated by a valve motor (not shown). The drive of the valve motor is controlled by a controller 15.

[0091] The second butterfly valve 24 is rotatable between an open position (shown by a dashed line in Figure 11) that opens the internal space 20 of the pipe body 11 in the vertical direction 7, and a closed position (shown by a solid line in Figure 11) that closes the internal space 20 in the vertical direction 7. When the second butterfly valve 24 is in the open position, the powder that flows into the internal space 20 from the inlet 21 flows downstream from the second butterfly valve 24. When the second butterfly valve 24 is in the closed position, the powder that flows into the internal space 20 from the inlet 21 remains upstream from the second butterfly valve 24. When both the first butterfly valve 23 and the second butterfly valve 24 are in the closed position, the internal space 20 is partitioned by the first butterfly valve 23 and the second butterfly valve 24 to form an inspection chamber 32 (an example of the second chamber). In the inspection chamber 32, a certain amount of powder can be stored by accumulating the powder on the second butterfly valve 24 in the closed position.

[0092] The switching valve 25 is located at the branching position P in the internal space 20 of the pipe body 11. The switching valve 25 has a disc that can close both the internal space 20 of the pipe body 11 and the internal space 30 of the branch pipe 12, and is rotatable between a normal position that closes the internal space 30 of the branch pipe 12 (shown by a solid line in Figure 11) and a switching position that closes the internal space 20 of the pipe body 11 (shown by a dashed line in Figure 11). The switching valve 25 is rotated by a valve motor (not shown). The drive of the valve motor is controlled by a controller 15.

[0093] In its normal position, the switching valve 25 connects the internal space 20 of the pipe 11 upstream of branching point P with the internal space 20 of the pipe 11 downstream of branching point P. In other words, when the switching valve 25 is in its normal position, the powder flowing through the internal space 20 of the pipe 11 can pass through branching point P. In its switched position, the switching valve 25 connects the internal space 20 of the pipe 11 upstream of branching point P with the internal space 30 of the branch pipe 12. In other words, when the switching valve 25 is in the switched position, the powder flowing through the internal space 20 of the pipe 11 flows from the internal space 20 to the internal space 30 at branching point P.

[0094] A window 26 is located in the wall that partitions the storage chamber 31 within the pipe body 11. The window 26 is a through-hole that penetrates the wall and is sealed with a light-transmitting material such as glass. A powder sensor 13 is located outside the pipe body 11, to the side of the window 26. The powder sensor 13 can be an optical sensor such as a laser sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, or a contact-type level switch. In the case of a laser sensor, the powder sensor 13 irradiates laser light into the storage chamber 31 through the window 26 and obtains reflected light. The powder sensor 13 outputs a detection signal based on the obtained reflected light to the controller 15. Since the reflected light differs depending on whether or not powder has accumulated to the side of the window 26 in the storage chamber 31, the controller 15 can determine whether or not powder has accumulated to the side of the window 26 in the storage chamber 31 based on the detection signal received from the powder sensor 13. In this embodiment, there is only one window 26, but in order to change the amount of powder deposited in the storage chamber 31, multiple windows 26 and powder sensors 13 may be provided at different positions in the vertical direction 7. Also, if a level switch is used as the powder sensor 13, the window 26 may not be provided.

[0095] A nozzle 27 is positioned to the side of the window 26 in the internal space 20 of the pipe 11. The nozzle 27 sprays air toward the window 26. The operation of the nozzle 27 is controlled by the controller 15. By spraying air toward the window 26, the nozzle 27 blows away any powder adhering to the window 26 in the internal space 20.

[0096] A first communication port 28 is located in the wall that partitions the storage chamber 31 within the pipe body 11. The first communication port 28 is located above the window 26. The first communication port 28 penetrates the wall of the pipe body 11 and connects the internal space 20 to the outside. Air from the storage chamber 31 can flow out to the outside through the first communication port 28.

[0097] A first filter 36 for capturing powder is provided at the first communication port 28. The first filter 36 is made of a woven or nonwoven fabric made of polyester, polyethylene, acrylic, nylon, polyphenylene sulfide, polyimide, tetrafluoroethylene, cotton, metal, glass fiber, etc., and is formed into a cylindrical shape with one end closed. The first filter 36 allows gases such as air to pass through but captures powder without allowing it to pass through, and a woven or nonwoven fabric with a pore size distribution corresponding to the particle size of the powder is selected.

[0098] As shown in Figure 12, the first communication port 28 is the internal space of a structure (such as a retainer) in which a cylindrical member 38 connects to the pipe body 11, and multiple rod members 39 are arranged circumferentially and protrude outward from the cylindrical member 38. The first filter 36 is placed over the cylindrical member 38 and the rod members 39, and the first filter 36 is tightened and fixed on the outside of the cylindrical member 38 by a restraining member (not shown), such as a band. The first filter 36 can be easily replaced with the first communication port 28 by removing the restraining member. A pleated filter may be used as the first filter 36. If a pleated filter is used, the cylindrical member 38 and the rod members 39 can be omitted.

[0099] A window 33 is located in the wall that partitions the inspection chamber 32 within the tube 11. The window 33 is a through-hole that penetrates the wall and is sealed with a light-transmitting material such as glass. A spectrometer 14 is located outside the tube 11, to the side of the window 33. The spectrometer 14 measures spectral information for near-infrared light. The spectrometer 14 irradiates the inspection chamber 32 with near-infrared light through the window 33 and obtains reflected light. The spectrometer 14 outputs the spectral information of the obtained reflected light as a measurement signal to the controller 15. Since the spectral information for near-infrared light differs depending on the chemical and physical properties of the powder deposited in the inspection chamber 32, the controller 15 can determine whether the inspection is successful or not based on the measurement signal received from the spectrometer 14, depending on whether the chemical and physical properties of the powder deposited in the inspection chamber 32 are within a predetermined threshold range. In addition, the spectrometer 14 may also measure the spectrum of Raman scattered light scattered by the irradiation of excitation light.

[0100] A nozzle 34 is positioned to the side of the window 33 in the internal space 20 of the pipe 11. The nozzle 34 sprays air toward the window 33. The operation of the nozzle 34 is controlled by the controller 15. By spraying air toward the window 33, the nozzle 34 blows away any powder adhering to the window 33 in the internal space 20.

[0101] A second communication opening 35 is located in the wall that partitions the inspection room 32 within the pipe 11. The second communication opening 35 is located above the window 33. The second communication opening 35 penetrates the wall and connects the internal space 20 to the outside. Air from the inspection room 32 can flow out to the outside through the second communication opening 35.

[0102] A second filter 37 for capturing powder is provided at the second communication port 35. The second filter 37 is made of a woven or nonwoven fabric made of polyester, polyethylene, acrylic, nylon, polyphenylene sulfide, polyimide, tetrafluoroethylene, cotton, metal, glass fiber, etc., and is formed into a cylindrical shape with one end closed. The second filter 37 allows gases such as air to pass through but captures powder without allowing it to pass through, and a woven or nonwoven fabric with a pore size distribution corresponding to the particle size of the powder is selected.

[0103] Although not shown in the diagram, the second communication opening 35 is the internal space of a structure (retainer) consisting of a cylindrical member 38 and multiple rod members 39, similar to the first communication opening 28. The second filter 37 is placed over the cylindrical member 38 and the rod members 39, and the second filter 37 is tightened and fixed on the outside of the cylindrical member 38 by a restraining member (not shown), such as a band. The second filter 37 can be easily replaced in the second communication opening 35 by removing the restraining member. A pleated filter may be used as the second filter 37. If a pleated filter is used, the cylindrical member 38 and the rod members 39 can be omitted.

[0104] As shown in Figure 13, the controller 15 is connected to the supply valve 22, the first butterfly valve 23, the second butterfly valve 24, and the valve motor (not shown) that drives the switching valve 25, as well as the powder sensor 13, the spectrometer 14, and the ejectors 27 and 34, via a communication bus 29 to send and receive electrical signals. The controller 15 consists of a CPU, ROM, RAM, etc., and stores the program and threshold range necessary for controlling the powder inspection device 10. In addition, the spectral information output by the spectrometer 14 may be output to another external information device instead of the controller 15, and the calculation results from that external information device may be output to the controller 15.

[0105] [Operation of the powder inspection device 10] The powder inspection device 10 is controlled to operate based on a program stored in the controller 15. Also, at the start of operation, the switching valve 25 is in its normal position.

[0106] As shown in Figure 14, when the controller 15 starts control, it opens the supply valve 22 and closes the first butterfly valve 23 (S11). As a result, as shown in Figure 15, the powder that flows into the internal space 20 of the pipe 11 from the inlet 21 accumulates on the first butterfly valve 23.

[0107] The controller 15 monitors whether the powder accumulated on the first butterfly valve 23 has been detected by the powder sensor 13 based on the detection signal from the powder sensor 13 (S12: No). In response to receiving a detection signal from the powder sensor 13 indicating that powder has been detected (S12: Yes), the controller 15 determines that a certain amount of powder has accumulated in the storage chamber 31.

[0108] When the controller 15 determines that a certain amount of powder has accumulated in the storage chamber 31, it closes the supply valve 22 and the second butterfly valve 24, and opens the first butterfly valve 23, as shown in Figure 16 (S13). As a result, the powder accumulated in the storage chamber 31 flows into the inspection chamber 32 and accumulates on the second butterfly valve 24. As the powder flows, outside air flows into the storage chamber 31 through the first filter 36 and the first communication port 28, and air flows out from the inspection chamber 32 to the outside through the second filter 37 and the second communication port 35. As a result, pressure fluctuations due to the flow of powder are suppressed in the storage chamber 31 and the inspection chamber 32, and so-called bridging, in which the powder accumulated on the second butterfly valve 24 forms an arch structure and blocks the internal space 20, is suppressed.

[0109] Furthermore, after closing the first butterfly valve 23 (S14), the controller 15 drives the sprayer 27 for a predetermined time (S15). The air sprayed from the sprayer 27 blows away the powder adhering to the window 26. Also, when the first butterfly valve 23 is in the closed position, the inspection chamber 32 becomes a closed space.

[0110] Furthermore, after driving the ejector 27 (S15), the controller 15 opens the supply valve 22 (S16). As a result, as shown in Figure 17, while the powder is being inspected in the inspection chamber 32, the powder flows from the inlet 21 into the internal space 20 of the pipe 11, and the powder to be inspected next accumulates on the first butterfly valve 23.

[0111] As shown in Figure 17, the controller 15 drives the spectrometer 14 to perform a spectroscopic measurement on the enclosed inspection chamber 32 (S17). The spectrometer 14 outputs spectral information of the reflected light to near-infrared light as a measurement signal to the controller 15. Based on the received measurement signal, the controller 15 determines whether the powder inspection is successful or not based on whether the spectral information is within a predetermined threshold range (S18).

[0112] In response to determining that the powder inspection is satisfactory (S18: Yes), the controller 15 opens the second butterfly valve 24 as shown in Figure 18 (S19). At this time, the switching valve 25 is in its normal position, so the powder that has flowed downstream from the inspection chamber 32 passes through the branching point P in the internal space 20 of the pipe 11 and heads towards the granulator 102. As the powder flows, air flows from the outside into the inspection chamber 32 through the second filter 37 and the second communication port 35. This suppresses pressure fluctuations in the inspection chamber 32 caused by the powder flow. Subsequently, the controller 15 sets the switching valve 25 to the switching position (S20).

[0113] In response to determining that the powder inspection is unsuccessful (S18: No), the controller 15 sets the switching valve 25 to the switching position (S21) as shown in Figure 19, and then sets the second butterfly valve 24 to the open position (S22). As a result, the powder that has flowed downstream from the inspection chamber 32 enters the internal space 30 of the branch pipe 12 from the internal space of the pipe body 11 at the branching position P, and heads toward a tank not shown. In other words, powder that fails the inspection does not go toward the granulator 102. Similarly, as the powder flows, air flows from the outside into the inspection chamber 32 through the second filter 37 and the second communication port 35. This suppresses pressure fluctuations in the inspection chamber 32 that occur as a result of the powder flow.

[0114] Furthermore, after step S20 or step S22, the controller 15 drives the sprayer 34 for a predetermined time (S23). The air ejected from the sprayer 34 blows the powder adhering to the window 33 into the internal space 30 of the branch pipe 12. After that, the controller 15 closes the second butterfly valve 24 (S24) and returns the switching valve 25 to its normal position (S25).

[0115] If there is a next inspection (S26: Yes), the controller 15 returns to step S12. If there is no next inspection (S26: No), the controller 15 terminates the operation of the powder inspection device 10.

[0116] [Effects of the second embodiment] According to the second embodiment, in the internal space 20 of the pipe 11, while the powder stored in the inspection chamber 32 between the first butterfly valve 23 and the second butterfly valve 24 is inspected by the spectrometer 14, the powder to be inspected next accumulates in the storage chamber 31 between the supply valve 22 and the first butterfly valve 23, so that the powder flowing through the internal space 20 of the pipe 11 can be inspected efficiently.

[0117] Furthermore, when the powder moves from the first chamber to the second chamber, gas flows in or out through the first communication port 28 and the second communication port 35, so fluctuations in air pressure are less likely to occur in the storage chamber 31 and the inspection chamber 32. As a result, the powder moves easily within the internal space 20 of the pipe 11. Also, when the supply valve 22 and the second butterfly valve 24 are closed, the bulk density of the powder does not change easily when it moves from the storage chamber 31 to the inspection chamber 32, so the inspection by the spectrometer 14 in the inspection chamber 32 is stable. In addition, the first filter 36 and the second filter 37 prevent the powder from flowing out of the storage chamber 31 and the inspection chamber 32 to the outside through the first communication port 28 and the second communication port 35.

[0118] Furthermore, since the internal space 20 of the pipe 11 extends along the vertical direction 7 as the downward downstream side, gravity causes the powder to flow downward through the internal space 20 of the pipe 11.

[0119] [Modified version of the second embodiment] In the second embodiment described above, the operation of the powder inspection device 10 is controlled based on a program stored in the controller 15. However, instead of a program, the powder inspection device 10 may be operated by input from an operator to an input interface. Furthermore, a controller for controlling various sensors such as the powder sensor 13 may be provided independently of the controller 15. In that case, the various sensors may be controlled by a separate controller, and information may be communicated between that controller and the controller 15 to control the operating timing. In addition, the spectral information output by the spectrometer 14 may be output to an external information device instead of the controller 15, and the calculation results from that external information device may be output to the controller 15.

[0120] Furthermore, the tube 11 does not necessarily have to extend along the vertical direction 7, and a part of the tube 11 may extend along other directions such as the horizontal direction, and the tube 11 may be bent. Also, the tube 11 does not necessarily have to be a continuous tube; for example, the tube 11 may be made up of multiple connected tubes. When the tube 11 is made up of multiple tubes, the multiple tubes may be connected by, for example, a flexible tube. For example, in a configuration in which a tube located upstream of the tube 11 and a tube located downstream are connected by a flexible tube, when vibration for shaking powder is applied to the upstream tube by a vibrator, the vibration is not transmitted to the downstream tube, and segregation of the powder components can be prevented in the downstream tube. Another advantage is that the powder is less likely to bridge.

[0121] Furthermore, the pipe 11 may be connected to a tank for storing powder that has been deemed unsuitable during inspection, and the branch pipe 12 may be connected to a granulator 102. In this case, the normal position and the switching position of the switching valve 25 will be reversed.

[0122] Furthermore, instead of an optical sensor, a contact-type sensor may be used as the powder sensor 13. In that case, the powder sensor 13 will be located in the internal space 20 of the pipe 11, rather than on the outside. Also, the sprayers 27 and 34 may be omitted.

[0123] Furthermore, the powders inspected by the powder inspection device 10 are not limited to those used in solid pharmaceuticals such as tablets and capsules, but may also be powders used in food products, for example.

[0124] Furthermore, the structure of the first communication port 28 and the second communication port 35 is not limited to a structure made of a cylindrical member 38 and a rod 39. For example, the first communication port 28 or the second communication port 35 may be a through hole penetrating the wall of the pipe 11. Also, the shapes of the first filter 36 and the second filter 37 can be appropriately changed to match the shapes of the first communication port 28 and the second communication port 35. In addition, if the first communication port 28 and the second communication port 35 have an elongated curved shape that can capture powder to some extent, the first filter 36 and the second filter 37 may be omitted. [Explanation of symbols]

[0125] 10,10A... Powder inspection device 11...tube 12... Branch pipe 13. Powder Sensor 14...Spectrometer (measuring instrument) 15. Controller 20... Interior space 21...Inlet 22. Supply valve 23. First butterfly valve (first valve) 24. Second butterfly valve (second valve) 25... Switching valve 26...window 27... squirt 28...1st communication port 30... Interior space 31...Storage chamber (1st chamber) 32.. Examination Room (Room 2) 33...window 34... squirt 35...2nd communication port 36.. First filter 37.. Second filter

Claims

1. A pipe having a powder inlet, A supply valve located in the internal space of the above-mentioned pipe, which opens and closes the internal space, A first valve is located downstream of the supply valve in the internal space of the above pipe, and opens and closes the internal space. A second valve is located downstream of the first valve in the internal space of the above-mentioned pipe, and opens and closes the said internal space. A branch pipe that demarcates the branched flow path that branches off from a branching point downstream of the second valve in the internal space of the above pipe, A switching valve located at the above branching position, Between the supply valve and the first valve in the internal space of the above-mentioned pipe, a powder sensor for detecting powder is provided, A powder inspection device comprising a measuring instrument for measuring powder between the first valve and the second valve in the internal space of the above-mentioned pipe.

2. The powder inspection apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the internal space of the above-mentioned pipe extends along the vertical direction as the downward downstream side.

3. It also has a controller, The above controller is With the supply valve and the first valve in the closed position, based on the detection signal that the powder sensor outputs when it detects powder, the first valve is opened with the second valve in the closed position. With the first valve and the second valve in the closed position, the measuring instrument outputs a measurement signal, The powder inspection apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, in response to the received measurement signal, the switching valve is positioned at a position where the internal space of the pipe is continuous, or at a position where the internal space of the pipe and the branched flow path are connected, and the second valve is set to the open position.

4. The powder inspection apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the controller sets the second valve to the open position, the supply valve to the open position, and the first valve to the closed position in response to the measurement signal.

5. The above pipe body is A translucent window located in the wall between the first valve and the second valve in the internal space of the above-mentioned pipe, The above pipe body further includes a nozzle that blows air into the above window within its internal space. The above measuring instrument is a powder inspection device according to claim 1 or 2, which measures powder from outside the tube through the window.

6. The above pipe body is A first communication port is provided that connects the supply valve and the first valve within the internal space of the pipe to the outside, The powder inspection apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a second communication port that connects the space between the first valve and the second valve in the internal space of the pipe to the outside.

7. A supply valve is located in the internal space of a pipe having a powder inlet, and when the supply valve, located downstream of the supply valve in the internal space, is in the closed position, a powder sensor located between the supply valve and the first valve outputs a detection signal indicating the presence of powder, and based on this, the first valve is opened while the second valve, located downstream of the first valve in the internal space, is in the closed position. With the first valve and the second valve in the closed position, the powder between the first valve and the second valve is measured using a measuring instrument. A powder inspection method that, in response to a measurement signal from the above measuring instrument, switches a switching valve located downstream of the second valve in the above internal space to a position where the above internal space is continuous, or to a position where the above internal space is connected to a branched flow path.

8. A pipe having a powder inlet, A supply valve located in the internal space of the above-mentioned pipe, which opens and closes the internal space, A first valve is located downstream of the supply valve in the internal space of the above pipe, and opens and closes the internal space. A second valve is located downstream of the first valve in the internal space of the above-mentioned pipe, and opens and closes the said internal space. A branch pipe that demarcates the branched flow path that branches off from a branching point downstream of the second valve in the internal space of the above pipe, A switching valve located at the above branching position, In the first chamber between the supply valve and the first valve in the internal space of the above-mentioned pipe, a powder sensor for detecting powder is provided, In the second chamber between the first valve and the second valve in the internal space of the above-mentioned pipe, a measuring instrument for measuring powder is provided, In the first chamber described above, there is a first communication opening that penetrates the pipe and connects the first chamber to the outside, In the second chamber described above, there is a second communication opening that penetrates the pipe and connects the second chamber to the outside, A first filter that blocks the first communication port mentioned above, It is equipped with a second filter that blocks the second communication port mentioned above, The first filter and the second filter described above are a powder inspection device that allows gas to pass through but prevents powder from passing through.

9. The first filter described above is detachable from the first communication port described above. The powder inspection apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the second filter is detachably attached to the second communication port.

10. The powder inspection apparatus according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the internal space of the above-mentioned pipe extends along the vertical direction as the downward downstream side.

11. It also has a controller, The above controller is With the supply valve and the first valve in the closed position, based on the detection signal that the powder sensor outputs when it detects powder, the first valve is opened with the second valve in the closed position. With the first valve and the second valve in the closed position, the measuring instrument outputs a measurement signal, The powder inspection apparatus according to claim 10, wherein, in response to the received measurement signal, the switching valve is positioned at a position where the internal space of the pipe is continuous, or at a position where the internal space of the pipe and the branched flow path are connected, and the second valve is set to the open position.

12. The powder inspection apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the controller sets the second valve to the open position, the supply valve to the open position, and the first valve to the closed position in response to the measurement signal.

Images