Information processing device, information processing method, and tablet printing apparatus

Abstract

To improve the ratio of non-defective products.SOLUTION: An information processing device according to embodiment comprises: an acquisition unit 43a which on the basis of printing angle deviation distribution data of a print pattern printed on a face without a division line of a tablet having a division line only in one face thereof, acquires a printable area in the face without the cutting line; and a generation part 43b which compares the printable area with a print schedule area being an area in which printing on the tablet is scheduled, and when the print schedule area does not remain within the printable area, adjusts and generates the print pattern to print on the tablet so that the print schedule area may remain within the printable area.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to an information processing apparatus, an information processing method, and a tablet printing apparatus. [Background Art]

[0002] Currently, in order to print various types of information such as identification information on tablets, tablet printing apparatuses that perform printing using an inkjet head have been developed (see, for example, Patent Document 1). Some of these tablet printing apparatuses perform printing on both sides of a tablet conveyed by a conveying device with the inversion of the tablet (a process in which the held surface of the tablet is switched from one side to the other side) interposed therebetween. In this case, an angular deviation of the printing position may occur on both sides of the tablet. In particular, in the case of a tablet having a score line on one side, the angular position of the identification information printed on the surface without the score line may deviate from the angle of the score line, and the identification information may overlap the position of the score line. In this case, when the tablet is split along the score line, the identification information is divided in the middle.

[0003] In the aforementioned tablet printing apparatus, normally, the angle of the score line on the tablet is detected by a detection unit such as a sensor or a camera, and after the tablet is inverted, identification information is printed on the surface without the score line based on the angle of the score line. Since the conveyance and inversion of the tablet are interposed between the detection and the printing, there is a possibility that the detected angle of the score line deviates from the angle of the score line after inversion. However, after the tablet is conveyed and inverted, the tablet is conveyed such that the score line faces the conveying device side, so the angle of the score line on the tablet cannot be detected. For this reason, even if the identification information is printed in a state deviated from the angle of the score line of the tablet, this cannot be detected, and defective products in which the identification information is divided in the middle when the tablet is split along the score line are discharged as non-defective products, resulting in a decrease in the non-defective product rate. [Prior Art Documents] [Patent Documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2013-122401 [Summary of the Invention] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0005] The problem that this invention aims to solve is to provide an information processing device, an information processing method, and a tablet printing device that can improve the yield rate of good products. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] An information processing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention includes: an acquisition unit that determines the printable area of ​​the side without a score line in a tablet having a score line on only one side, based on distribution data of printing angle deviation due to the transport of the tablet; and a generation unit that compares the printable area with a planned printing area, which is the area on the tablet where printing is planned, based on the printing pattern to be printed on the tablet, and if the planned printing area does not fit within the printable area, it adjusts and generates a printing pattern to be printed on the tablet so that the planned printing area fits within the printable area.

[0007] An information processing method according to an embodiment of the present invention includes: determining the printable area of ​​a printed pattern printed on the side without a score line in a tablet having a score line on only one side, based on printing angle displacement distribution data due to the transport of the tablet; comparing the printable area with a planned printing area, which is the area on the tablet where printing is planned, determined based on the printing pattern to be printed on the tablet; and, if the planned printing area does not fit within the printable area, adjusting and generating a printing pattern to be printed on the tablet so that the planned printing area fits within the printable area.

[0008] An embodiment of the present invention provides a tablet printing apparatus comprising: an information processing apparatus; a transport unit for transporting tablets having a score line on only one side; and an inkjet head for printing on the tablets transported by the transport unit. The information processing apparatus includes: an acquisition unit for determining the printable area of ​​the non-scored side of the tablet based on distribution data of printing angle deviation due to the transport of the tablet, of a printing pattern printed on the non-scored side of the tablet; a generation unit for comparing the printable area with a planned printing area, which is the area of ​​the tablet where printing is planned, based on a printing pattern to be printed on the tablet; and, if the planned printing area does not fit within the printable area, an adjustment and generation of a printing pattern to be printed on the tablet so that the planned printing area fits within the printable area. The inkjet head prints the printing pattern generated by the generation unit onto the tablet. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to embodiments of the present invention, it is possible to improve the yield rate of good products. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] This figure shows an example of a schematic configuration of a tablet printing apparatus according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] This figure shows an example of a schematic configuration of a printing apparatus according to an embodiment. [Figure 3] This figure shows an example of a schematic configuration of the control device according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] This figure illustrates the printing angle misalignment with respect to the secant line according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] This graph shows the distribution data of the printing angle deviation according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] This is a first figure illustrating the determination of the printable area according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] This is a second figure illustrating the determination of the printable area according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] This is a third figure illustrating the determination of the printable area according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining determination of a printable area according to the embodiment. [Figure 10] It is a flow chart showing an example of the flow of a print pattern adjustment step according to the embodiment. [Figure 11] It is a flow chart showing an example of the flow of a printing step according to the embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining a sample print pattern according to the embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining a sample print pattern according to the embodiment. MODES FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0011] <Embodiment> An embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0012] (Configuration Example of Tablet Printing Apparatus) As shown in FIG. 1, a tablet printing apparatus 1 according to a first embodiment includes a feeding device 10, a first printing device 20, a second printing device 50, a collecting device 30, and a control device 40.

[0013] The feeding device 10 includes a hopper 11, an aligning feeder 12, and a delivery feeder 13. The feeding device 10 is positioned at one end side of the first printing device 20, and is configured to be capable of feeding a tablet T, which is an object to be printed, to the first printing device 20.

[0014] The hopper 11 accommodates a plurality of tablets T, and sequentially supplies the accommodated tablets T to the alignment feeder 12. The alignment feeder 12 aligns the supplied tablets T in a single row, and conveys them toward the delivery feeder 13 in the conveyance direction A1 (clockwise direction). For example, a belt conveyance mechanism or a vibration feeder is used as the alignment feeder 12. The delivery feeder 13 sequentially sucks and holds each tablet T aligned in a single row on the alignment feeder 12 from the upper side of the tablets T, conveys the held tablets T to the first printing device 20 in a single row, and delivers them to the first printing device 20. For example, a belt conveyance mechanism is used as the delivery feeder 13. The belt conveyance mechanism of the delivery feeder 13 rotates in the conveyance direction A2 (counterclockwise direction). The supply device 10 is electrically connected to the control device 40, and its driving is controlled by the control device 40.

[0015] The first printing device 20 includes a conveyance unit 21, a detection unit 22, a first imaging unit 23, an inkjet head 24, a second imaging unit 25, and a drying unit 26. The inkjet head 24 is an example of a printing unit.

[0016] The conveyance unit 21 includes a conveyance belt 21a, a drive pulley 21b, a plurality of driven pulleys 21c, a motor 21d, a position detector 21e, and a suction chamber 21f. The conveyance belt 21a is an endless belt, and is stretched across the drive pulley 21b and each driven pulley 21c. The drive pulley 21b and each driven pulley 21c are rotatably provided on the device main body (not shown), and the drive pulley 21b is connected to the motor 21d. The motor 21d is electrically connected to the control device 40, and its driving is controlled by the control device 40. The position detector 21e is a device such as an encoder, and is attached to the motor 21d. This position detector 21e is electrically connected to the control device 40, and transmits detection signals to the control device 40. The conveyance unit 21 causes the conveyance belt 21a to travel together with each driven pulley 21c by the rotation of the drive pulley 21b by the motor 21d, and conveys the tablets T on the conveyance belt 21a in the conveyance direction A1 (clockwise direction).

[0017] As shown in Figure 2, the conveyor belt 21a has multiple circular suction holes 21g formed therein. Each of these suction holes 21g is a through-hole that attracts a tablet T, and they are arranged in a line along the conveying direction A1 to form a single conveying path. Each suction hole 21g is connected to the suction chamber 21f (see Figure 1) via a suction path (not shown) formed in the suction chamber 21f, and suction force can be obtained from the suction chamber 21f. A pump is connected to the suction chamber 21f via a suction tube (neither shown), and the inside of the suction chamber 21f is depressurized by the operation of the pump. The suction tube is connected to approximately the center of the side surface of the suction chamber 21f (the surface parallel to the conveying direction A1). The pump is also electrically connected to a control device 40, and its drive is controlled by the control device 40. When the inside of the suction chamber 21f is depressurized, tablets T placed on each suction hole 21g of the conveyor belt 21a are attracted by the suction holes 21g and held on the conveyor belt 21a.

[0018] The detection unit 22 is positioned downstream in the transport direction A1 from the point where the tablets T are transferred from the supply device 10 to the transport unit 21, and is located above the transport path where the suction holes 21g are lined up. The detection unit 22 detects the position of the tablets T on the transport belt 21a in the transport direction A1, i.e., when the tablets T reach the detection position directly below the detection unit 22 (arrival of tablets T), by transmitting and receiving laser light. For example, a displacement sensor can be used as the detection unit 22. Various types of laser sensors, such as reflective laser sensors, can be used as displacement sensors. The detection unit 22 is electrically connected to the control device 40 and transmits a detection signal to the control device 40.

[0019] The first imaging unit 23 is positioned downstream in the transport direction A1 from the position where the detection unit 22 is located, and is positioned above the transport path where each suction hole 21g is lined up. Based on the position information of the tablet T in the transport direction A1 detected by the detection unit 22, the first imaging unit 23 takes an image at a first imaging timing when the tablet T reaches the imaging position directly below the first imaging unit 23, acquiring a first image including the top surface of the tablet T, and transmitting the acquired first image to the control device 40. The first image is used to detect the presence and location of the score line on the tablet T, the presence or absence of damage or foreign matter attached to the tablet T (e.g., cracks, chips, dirt, etc.), and the position of the tablet T in the X, Y, and θ directions (see Figure 2). Various cameras having image sensors such as CCD or CMOS can be used as the first imaging unit 23. The first imaging unit 23 is electrically connected to the control device 40, and its drive is controlled by the control device 40. Illumination for imaging is also provided as needed.

[0020] Here, the positions of the tablet T in the X and Y directions are, for example, the positions in the XY coordinate system with respect to the center (reference position) of the imaging area of ​​the first imaging unit 23. The position in the θ direction is, for example, the position indicating the degree of rotation of the tablet T in a horizontal plane along the XY plane of the imaging area of ​​the first imaging unit 23. This position in the θ direction is detected when the tablet T has a directional shape, such as when the tablet T has a score line or when the tablet T is molded into an ellipse, oblong, or square shape. Note that the X and Y directions are positions in the horizontal direction.

[0021] The inkjet head 24 is positioned downstream of the first imaging unit 23 in the transport direction A1 and above the transport path where each suction hole 21g is lined up. The inkjet head 24 has a plurality of nozzles 24a (see Figure 2) (for example, several hundred to several thousand), and is positioned so that the direction in which the nozzles 24a are lined up (nozzle row) is perpendicular to the transport direction A1 in the horizontal plane (an example of intersection). The inkjet head 24 ejects ink individually from each nozzle 24a by the operation of a drive element for each nozzle 24a. Various inkjet printing heads having drive elements such as piezoelectric elements, heating elements, or magnetostrictive elements can be used as this inkjet head 24. The inkjet head 24 is electrically connected to a control device 40, and its drive is controlled by the control device 40.

[0022] The second imaging unit 25 is positioned downstream in the transport direction A1 from the position where the inkjet head 24 is located, and is positioned above the transport path where each suction hole 21g is lined up. Based on the position information of the tablet T in the transport direction A1 detected by the detection unit 22, the second imaging unit 25 takes an image at a second imaging timing when the tablet T reaches the imaging position directly below the second imaging unit 25, acquiring a second image including the top surface of the tablet T, and transmitting the acquired second image to the control device 40. The second image is used to inspect the printed pattern printed on the tablet T. As with the first imaging unit 23 described above, various cameras having image sensors such as CCD or CMOS are used as the second imaging unit 25. The second imaging unit 25 is electrically connected to the control device 40, and its drive is controlled by the control device 40. Illumination for imaging is also provided as needed.

[0023] The drying unit 26 is positioned opposite the conveyor belt 21a, for example, located below the conveyor unit 21. This drying unit 26 dries the ink applied to each tablet T on the conveyor belt 21a. Various types of dryers can be used for the drying unit 26, such as a blower that dries using a gas such as air, a heater that dries using radiant heat, or a blower that dries using warm air or hot air by using both gas and a heater. The drying unit 26 is electrically connected to the control device 40, and its drive is controlled by the control device 40.

[0024] Here, the first printing device 20 and the second printing device 50 are arranged such that a portion of the transport section 21 and transport section 51 overlap vertically. The tablet T printed by the upper first printing device 20 is inverted and transferred to the lower second printing device 50, where both sides of the tablet T are printed. Normally, to ensure a smooth transfer of the tablet T from the first printing device 20 to the second printing device 50, the transport speed of the first printing device 20 and the transport speed of the second printing device 50 are always the same.

[0025] The second printing apparatus 50 has the same structure as the first printing apparatus 20. That is, the second printing apparatus 50 comprises a transport unit 51, a detection unit 52, a first imaging unit 53, an inkjet head 54, a second imaging unit 55, and a drying unit 56. The transport unit 51 includes a transport belt 51a, a drive pulley 51b, a plurality of driven pulleys 51c, a motor 51d, a position detector 51e, and a suction chamber 51f. This transport unit 51 transports the tablets T on the transport belt 51a in the transport direction A2 (counterclockwise direction). The inkjet head 54 is an example of a printing unit. Note that each element constituting the second printing apparatus 50 has basically the same structure as each element constituting the first printing apparatus 20, so their explanation is omitted.

[0026] The recovery device 30 is located downstream in the transport direction A2 from the location where the drying unit 56 is provided, and is located below the transport unit 51. This recovery device 30 has a reusable product recovery unit 31, a defective product recovery unit 32, and a good product recovery unit 33. The recovery device 30 recovers reusable tablets T by the reusable product recovery unit 31, defective tablets T by the defective product recovery unit 32, and good tablets T by the good product recovery unit 33. For example, reusable products are tablets that can be reused, are undamaged and free of foreign matter, and are non-printed tablets. Defective products include non-printed tablets with foreign matter attached, and undamaged and free of foreign matter tablets that are unsuitable for printing (printed tablets), while good products are undamaged and free of foreign matter tablets that are suitable for printing (printed tablets). Note that the order in which the reusable product recovery unit 31, the defective product recovery unit 32, and the good product recovery unit 33 are arranged in the transport direction A2 is not limited to the order shown in Figure 1, and may be changed as appropriate. The recovery device 30 is electrically connected to the control device 40, and its operation is controlled by the control device 40.

[0027] The reusable product collection unit 31 has a spray nozzle 31a and a collection box 31b. The defective product collection unit 32 has a spray nozzle 32a and a collection box 32b. The good product collection unit 33 has a spray nozzle 33a and a collection box 33b. These spray nozzles 31a, 32a, and 33a have basically the same structure, and the collection boxes 31b, 32b, and 33b also have basically the same structure. For this reason, the spray nozzle 31a and the collection box 31b will be described as representative examples.

[0028] The spray nozzle 31a and the collection box 31b are positioned opposite each other across the conveying path where the suction holes 51g of the conveying belt 51a are lined up. The spray nozzle 31a is located inside the suction chamber 51f and, for example, sprays gas (e.g., air) toward the conveying belt 51a, causing the tablets T to fall from the conveying belt 51a. At this time, the gas sprayed from the spray nozzle 31a passes through the suction holes 51g of the conveying belt 51a and hits the tablets T. The spray nozzle 31a is electrically connected to the control device 40, and its drive is controlled by the control device 40. The collection box 31b is located directly below the spray nozzle 31a and below the conveying section 51. This collection box 31b receives and stores the tablets T that have fallen from the conveying belt 51a due to the gas sprayed from the spray nozzle 31a.

[0029] Here, the tablets T that have passed through the recycled product collection section 31 and the defective product collection section 32 are transported along with the movement of the conveyor belt 51a and reach a position near the end of the conveyor belt 51a on the side of each driven pulley 51c. At this position, the suction action from the suction chamber 51f no longer acts on the tablets T, but gas is blown onto the tablets T from above by the spray nozzle 33a, causing the tablets T to fall from the conveyor belt 51a. Therefore, by providing the spray nozzle 33a, the tablets T can be reliably dropped from the conveyor belt 51a. The collection box 33b receives and stores the tablets T that have fallen from the conveyor belt 51a due to the gas sprayed from the spray nozzle 33a.

[0030] The control device 40 controls various parts of the tablet printing apparatus 1, such as the supply device 10, the first printing device 20, the second printing device 50, and the collection device 30, based on various information and various programs. The control device 40 also receives image data transmitted from the first imaging unit 23, the second imaging unit 25, the first imaging unit 53, and the second imaging unit 55, respectively, as well as detection data (e.g., detection signals) transmitted from the position detector (e.g., encoder) of the transfer feeder 13, the position detector 21e and detection unit 22 of the transport unit 21, and the position detector 51e and detection unit 52 of the transport unit 51, respectively. The control device 40 is implemented by, for example, an electronic circuit such as an integrated circuit or a computer.

[0031] (Example of control device configuration) Next, an example of the configuration of the control device 40 will be described with reference to Figure 3.

[0032] As shown in Figure 3, the control device 40 includes an image processing unit 41, a storage unit 42, and a control unit 43. This control device 40 functions as an information processing device. An input device 40a and an output device 40b are connected to the control device 40. The input device 40a is implemented by, for example, a switch, a touch panel, a keyboard, or a mouse. The output device 40b is implemented by, for example, a display, a lamp, or a meter.

[0033] The image processing unit 41 takes in the first image obtained by the first imaging unit 23 and the second image obtained by the second imaging unit 25, and processes the images using known image processing techniques. For example, the image processing unit 41 processes the first image obtained from the first imaging unit 23 to obtain the presence and location of the score line on the tablet T, the presence or absence of damage or foreign matter on the tablet T, and further obtains the position of the tablet T in the X, Y, and θ directions. The image processing unit 41 also processes the second image obtained from the second imaging unit 25 to obtain the printing position, shape, and size of the printed pattern (e.g., characters or marks) printed on the tablet T. The image processing unit 41 transmits the acquired information on the presence and location of the score line on the tablet T (score line information including presence / absence information and position information), the acquired information on the presence or absence of damage or foreign matter on the tablet T, the acquired position information of each tablet T in the X, Y, and θ directions, and further, the printing position information, shape information, and size information of the printed pattern on each tablet T to the control unit 43.

[0034] The memory unit 42 stores processing information and various programs. For example, it is implemented by semiconductor memory elements such as RAM (Random Access Memory) and flash memory, or by storage devices such as hard disks or optical discs. The memory unit 42 stores printing data and transport speed data related to printing. The printing data includes information on printing patterns such as characters and marks.

[0035] The control unit 43 is a computer such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), MCU (Micro Control Unit), or MPU (Micro Processing Unit), and controls each part. For example, the control unit 43 controls the supply device 10, the first printing device 20, the second printing device 50, the retrieval device 30, the image processing unit 41, the storage unit 42, etc., based on various information and programs stored in the storage unit 42. The control unit 43 also receives detection signals transmitted from the position detector of the transfer feeder 13, the position detector 21e and detection unit 22 of the transport unit 21, and the position detector 51e and detection unit 52 of the transport unit 51, respectively.

[0036] For example, in the first printing device 20, the control unit 43 acquires the position of the tablet T in the transport direction A1 on the transport belt 21a based on the detection information transmitted from the detection unit 22, i.e., the timing at which the tablet T on the transport belt 21a is detected. Based on this position information indicating the position of the tablet T in the transport direction A1, the control unit 43 sets the first imaging timing of the first imaging unit 23, the printing start timing of the inkjet head 24, and the second imaging timing of the second imaging unit 25, and generates timing information indicating these timings and stores it in the storage unit 42. The printing start timing is the timing at which printing begins for the tablet T that has reached the printing position directly below the inkjet head 24. Based on the detection information transmitted from the position detector 21e, the control unit 43 can acquire information such as the amount of movement (amount of rotation) and speed of the transport belt 21a. The same processing is performed in the second printing device 50.

[0037] Furthermore, in the first printing device 20, the control unit 43 sets whether or not a tablet T is printable based on the information transmitted from the image processing unit 41 regarding the presence or absence of damage or foreign matter on the tablet T, as printability information. Then, the control unit 43 sets the printing conditions as printability information for the tablet T that has been set to printable. At this time, the control unit 43 sets the printing conditions for the tablet T for which the position information has been obtained, based on the position information of the tablet T in the X, Y, and θ directions transmitted from the image processing unit 41. For example, the control unit 43 determines the range of nozzles 24a to be used to print the target tablet T in the inkjet head 24, i.e., the nozzle range to be used, based on the position information of the tablet T in the Y direction and the printing data, and sets the printing conditions including the nozzle range to be used and the printing start timing. If the tablet T has a directional shape, the control unit 43 sets the printing conditions corresponding to the position of the tablet T in the θ direction based on the position information of the tablet T in the θ direction. As an example, the control unit 43 stores 180 different printing patterns in the storage unit 42, each obtained by rotating the orientation of the printing pattern by 1 degree in the range of 0 to 179 degrees. From these printing patterns, it selects a printing pattern with an angle that matches the position of the tablet T in the θ direction and sets the printing conditions. The same process is carried out in the second printing device 50.

[0038] Furthermore, the control unit 43 determines whether the print pattern has been printed in a predetermined shape and size at a predetermined position on the tablet T, that is, whether the print pattern has been successfully printed on the tablet T, based on the print position information, shape information, and size information of the print pattern printed on the tablet T (this information is based on the second image) transmitted from the image processing unit 41 in the first printing device 20, and sets print quality information for the tablet T (print condition check). For example, in determining the shape and size of the print pattern, the control unit 43 registers a print pattern for inspection in the storage unit 42 and compares this print pattern with the actual print pattern on the tablet T after printing (the print pattern printed on the tablet T). The same process is performed in the second printing device 50.

[0039] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 3, the control unit 43 includes an acquisition unit 43a and a generation unit 43b. These acquisition unit 43a and generation unit 43b may be implemented, for example, by hardware and software, or both.

[0040] The acquisition unit 43a identifies an angular range that includes a predetermined percentage (e.g., 90%) or more of the tablets T to be printed, based on previously acquired print angle deviation distribution data, and determines and acquires the printable area that is permissible within this angular range. The predetermined percentage only needs to be 90% or more; it may also be 95% or 97% or more.

[0041] Printing angle misalignment refers to the printing angle misalignment with respect to the cleavage line B1, as shown in Figure 4. In the example in Figure 4, "A-I-U" and "K-K-K-K-E" are printed on the cleavage line surface of tablet T, and "X-Y" and "ABCDEFG" are printed on the non-cleavage line surface of tablet T. The cleavage line surface is the surface with the cleavage line B1 (the surface on which the cleavage line B1 is formed), and the non-cleavage line surface is the surface without the cleavage line B1 (the surface on which the cleavage line B1 is not formed). Furthermore, the example in Figure 4 illustrates individual tablets T for which the θ misalignment (angle misalignment) with respect to the cleavage line B1 is +5 degrees, +7 degrees, +9 degrees, -5 degrees, -7 degrees, and -9 degrees. Note that counterclockwise is the positive direction of rotation, and clockwise is the negative direction of rotation.

[0042] The printing angle deviation distribution data, as shown in Figure 5, is data that shows the distribution of the amount of printing angle deviation on non-secant lines. This printing angle deviation distribution data shows the relationship between the amount of θ deviation (printing angle deviation) relative to the secant line B1 and the frequency. The frequency is a ratio to the total number of tablets and essentially represents the number of tablets. For example, if the total number of tablets is 400, a frequency of 5% means that the number of tablets at that time is 20. In the example in Figure 5, the maximum value of the θ deviation is 34.6 degrees, the minimum value of the θ deviation is -17.8 degrees, and 3σ is 28.5 degrees.

[0043] When there is a single transport column for tablets T, the print angle misalignment distribution data corresponding to that single column is used. However, when there are multiple transport columns for tablets T, the print angle misalignment distribution data corresponding to those multiple columns may be used. For example, the print angle misalignment distribution data corresponding to multiple columns may be averaged and used.

[0044] Furthermore, if the conveyor belts 21a and 51a are attached, detached, or replaced due to maintenance or other reasons, the print angle misalignment distribution data may change. For this reason, it is desirable to re-acquire the print angle misalignment distribution data whenever either or both of the conveyor belts 21a and 51a are attached, detached, or replaced. In addition, if the type of tablet T to be printed is changed, the print angle misalignment distribution data may change. In such cases as well, it is desirable to re-acquire the print angle misalignment distribution data.

[0045] The printing angle misalignment distribution data is obtained by placing printed tablets T on a transparent material, imaging the front and back surfaces (slit and non-slit surfaces) of the tablets T, detecting the angle misalignment of the non-slit surface, and then obtaining the angle misalignment distribution data based on this. It is desirable to detect the front and back surface angle misalignment for approximately 100 tablets T to obtain the printing angle misalignment distribution data.

[0046] The acquisition unit 43a identifies from the above-mentioned printing angle deviation distribution data that the angle range containing a predetermined percentage (e.g., 90%) or more of the tablets T to be printed is ±20 degrees. The case in which the printable area R1 for the tablets T is determined by defining this angle range containing 90% or more of the tablets T to be printed as ±20 degrees (±20 degrees relative to the reference position of 0 degrees) will be explained with reference to Figures 6 to 9.

[0047] As shown in Figure 6, the thick line L1 is a line that avoids the secant line (groove) B1 and indicates that the angle range is ±20 degrees. This thick line L1 is determined by the acquisition unit 43a.

[0048] As shown in Figure 7, when the secant line B1 is tilted 20 degrees (+20 degrees) counterclockwise, the thick dashed line L2 is a line parallel to the +20-degree line of the thick line L1, and is drawn further down by half the width of the secant line B1. This thick dashed line L2 is obtained by the acquisition unit 43a.

[0049] As shown in Figure 8, when the secant line B1 is tilted 20 degrees (-20 degrees) clockwise, the thick dashed line L3 is a line parallel to the -20-degree line of the thick line L1, and is drawn further down by half the width of the secant line B1. This thick dashed line L3 is obtained by the acquisition unit 43a.

[0050] As shown in Figure 9, the printable area R1 is a region formed by three sides: two lines drawn parallel to the lines drawn 20 degrees inward from the angular position (0 degrees) where the score line B1 of the tablet T is formed, and shifted by half the width of the score line B1 (thick dashed lines L2 and L3); and the arc of the outer circumference of the tablet T separated by these two lines (thick dashed line). In the example in Figure 9, the printable area R1 is sector-shaped, and its central angle is 140 degrees. This printable area R1 is obtained by the acquisition unit 43a, for example, by the two regions separated by the score line B1.

[0051] The printable area R1 is the area set on the non-secant surface, avoiding the secant line B1 on the secant surface. This printable area R1 is largest as shown by the thick dashed line in Figure 9, but it may be set slightly smaller to allow for a margin. By allowing for a margin, printing is possible even if there is some deviation in the transport direction (for example, transport direction A1 or transport direction A2) or in the direction perpendicular to that transport direction.

[0052] In order to provide a margin, for example, the entire printable area R1 may be reduced in size, or the printable area R1 may be reduced by shifting the two sides of the printable area R1 on the secant line B1 side (thick dashed lines L2 and L3) away from the secant line B1 side without changing the shape of the printable area R1, or the printable area R1 may be reduced by changing the shape of the printable area R1. As an example of changing the shape of the printable area R1, the sector shape of the printable area R1 (a shape formed by one side of an arc and two sides of a straight line) may be changed to an arch shape (a shape formed by two sides of an arc and two sides of a straight line).

[0053] Returning to Figure 3, the generation unit 43b compares the printable area R1 obtained by the acquisition unit 43a with the planned print area (the outline and position on the tablet T) corresponding to the print pattern of the identification information to be printed on the tablet T. If the planned print area does not fit within the printable area R1, the generation unit 43b adjusts the print pattern so that the planned print area fits within the printable area R1. For example, the generation unit 43b generates a reduced print pattern so that the planned print area fits within the printable area R1. Here, for example, if the print pattern of the identification information is to be printed in both of the two areas divided by the score line B1 on the tablet T, the above comparison and adjustment process is performed for the two areas divided by the score line B1. The generation unit 43b can also determine the planned print area for the tablet T from the print pattern of the identification information to be printed on the tablet T (for example, the pattern size, or the character size and number of characters).

[0054] Here, "reduction" is not limited to reducing the print pattern evenly both vertically and horizontally, but also includes reducing it unevenly, such as reducing it only vertically or horizontally. Furthermore, "reduction" also includes reducing the width of the print pattern by, for example, adding line breaks to the identification information in the print pattern. To reduce the width or height of the print pattern, one may reduce the number of characters (for example, changing 5mg to 5), change full-width characters to half-width characters, change the language (for example, changing English to Japanese), change kanji to katakana, or abbreviate words. In addition to the reductions described above, to ensure that the planned print area fits within the printable area R1, for example, one may change the print pattern from one where the identification information is arranged in a straight line to one where the identification information is arranged in an arch shape, while keeping the font size of the identification information the same. In this case, it is desirable that the arch shape follows the outer circumference of the tablet T.

[0055] The control unit 43 stores various information (for example, information on the score line of the tablet T, the position information of the tablet T, timing information, printability information, print condition information, print quality information, etc.) in the storage unit 42 as appropriate. However, when the target tablet T is recovered by the recovery device 30, the various information is deleted from the storage unit 42 after a predetermined time (for example, a few seconds) has elapsed since it fell from the downstream end of the transport direction A2 in the transport unit 51. However, if this information is needed in subsequent processes, it is possible to leave the various information for each tablet T without deleting it, or to save it on storage media outside the device (external storage). When storing the various information for each tablet T, this information may be linked to the manufacturing date and time, lot number, etc., so that if defective products occur after shipment of printed tablets T, the cause can be traced back to investigate.

[0056] (Print pattern adjustment process) Next, the printing pattern adjustment process performed by the aforementioned tablet printing apparatus 1 will be explained with reference to Figure 10. The printing pattern adjustment process is performed before the printing process (actual manufacturing process), and the adjusted printing pattern is used in the printing process. Various information, such as data required for printing pattern adjustment, is stored in advance by the storage unit 42.

[0057] As shown in Figure 10, in step S21, the printable area R1 is determined by the acquisition unit 43a. For example, based on previously acquired print angle deviation distribution data, the acquisition unit 43a identifies an angle range (e.g., ±20 degrees) that includes a predetermined percentage (e.g., 90%) or more of the tablets T to be printed, and the acquisition unit 43a determines the printable area R1 that is permissible within that angle range. Note that the print angle deviation distribution data is obtained experimentally before the print pattern adjustment process and is stored in the storage unit 42.

[0058] In step S22, the printable area R1 obtained by the acquisition unit 43a and the planned print area corresponding to the printing pattern of the identification information to be printed on the tablet T are compared by the generation unit 43b, and a comparison result indicating the size of the areas is obtained. The planned print area is determined by the generation unit 43b based on the printing pattern of the identification information to be printed on the tablet T, including the size of the printing pattern and the printing position on the tablet T.

[0059] In step S23, the generation unit 43b determines, based on the comparison results described above, whether the area to be printed will fit within the printable area R1. If it is determined that the area to be printed will fit within the printable area R1 (Yes in step S23), no adjustments such as reducing the print pattern are performed, and the process ends. On the other hand, if it is determined that the area to be printed will not fit within the printable area R1 (No in step S23), the generation unit 43b performs adjustments such as reducing the print pattern in step S24. When the adjustment of the print pattern is performed, the generation unit 43b registers 180 different print patterns in the storage unit 42, obtained by rotating the orientation of the adjusted print pattern by 1 degree increments within the range of 0 to 179 degrees.

[0060] (Printing process) Next, the printing process performed by the aforementioned tablet printing apparatus 1 will be explained with reference to Figure 11. This printing process also includes an inspection process. Various information, such as data required for printing and inspection, is stored in advance by the storage unit 42. Figure 11 focuses on one tablet T and illustrates the printing process for that single tablet T.

[0061] As shown in Figure 11, in step S1, when a large number of tablets T to be printed are loaded into the hopper 11 of the supply device 10, the tablets T are sequentially supplied from the hopper 11 to the alignment feeder 12, where they are arranged in a line and moved. In this example, the tablets T being moved are sequentially supplied to the conveyor belt 21a of the first printing device 20 by the transfer feeder 13. The conveyor belt 21a is rotated in the conveying direction A1 by the rotation of the drive pulley 21b and each driven pulley 21c by the motor 21d. As a result, the tablets T supplied onto the conveyor belt 21a are arranged in a line on the conveyor belt 21a and transported at a predetermined conveying speed.

[0062] In step S2, the tablets T being transported by the transport belt 21a are detected by the detection unit 22. Specifically, when a tablet T on the transport belt 21a reaches a detection position directly below the detection unit 22 (for example, the laser beam irradiation position), it is detected by the detection unit 22. Based on the timing of the detection of the tablet T, the position of the tablet T in the transport direction A1 on the transport belt 21a is recognized by the position acquisition unit 44a. Then, position data indicating the position of the tablet T in the transport direction A1 is generated by the position acquisition unit 44a and stored in the storage unit 42.

[0063] In step S3, the tablet T on the conveyor belt 21a is imaged by the first imaging unit 23. Specifically, the tablet T on the conveyor belt 21a is imaged by the first imaging unit 23 at a first imaging timing when it reaches the imaging position directly below the first imaging unit 23, and the first image obtained by the imaging by the first imaging unit 23 is transmitted to the control device 40. Based on this first image, the image processing unit 41 generates information on the presence or absence of a score line B1 on the tablet T, its position information (score line information), information on the presence or absence of damage or foreign matter attached to the tablet T, and position data of the tablet T in the X, Y, and θ directions, and these are stored in the storage unit 42.

[0064] In step S4, the control unit 43 determines whether printing is possible on the target tablet T based on the aforementioned information regarding damage to the tablet T and the presence or absence of foreign matter. If it is determined that printing is possible on the target tablet T (Yes in step S4), the process proceeds to step S5. Based on information such as the position information of the tablet T in the X, Y, and θ directions and the printing pattern (for example, the adjusted printing pattern), printing conditions, including the nozzle range to be used and the printing start timing for the tablet T set as printable (printable tablet T), are set in the storage unit 42. Based on the aforementioned printing start timing (the timing at which printing begins on the tablet T), the ejection timing for the tablet T (the timing at which ink is ejected to the tablet T) is determined. On the other hand, if it is determined that printing is not possible on the target tablet T (No in step S4), operations related to printing and inspection of the target tablet T are restricted, and the process proceeds to step S9. The printability information of the tablet T is stored in the storage unit 42 as appropriate. Furthermore, "restriction" of operations related to printing and inspection means that at least the processes related to printing and printing condition inspection of the target tablet T are not performed.

[0065] In step S5, printing is performed by the inkjet head 24 based on the above printing conditions (the range of nozzles used and the printing start timing based on the printing pattern adjusted in the printing pattern adjustment step described above). In other words, the control unit 43 controls the inkjet head 24 to print a predetermined printing pattern on the printable tablets T on the transport belt 21a. Specifically, the printable tablets T on the transport belt 21a that have passed below the first imaging unit 23 are printed by the inkjet head 24 at the printing start timing when they reach the printing position directly below the inkjet head 24, based on the above printing conditions. The inkjet head 24 ejects ink appropriately from each nozzle 24a, and the printing pattern (for example, numbers, alphabets, katakana, symbols, figures) is printed on the printable surface, which is the upper surface of the tablet T.

[0066] In step S6, the printed tablet T on the conveyor belt 21a is imaged by the second imaging unit 25. Specifically, the printed tablet T on the conveyor belt 21a is imaged by the second imaging unit 25 at a second imaging timing when it reaches the imaging position directly below the second imaging unit 25, and the second image obtained by the imaging by the second imaging unit 25 is transmitted to the control device 40. This second image is processed by the image processing unit 41 of the control device 40. Specifically, information regarding the printed pattern printed on the tablet T, that is, the printing position, shape, and size of the printed pattern, is acquired by the image processing unit 41. The second image transmitted from the second imaging unit 25 is processed by the image processing unit 41, and inspection information indicating the printing position, shape, and size of the printed pattern on the tablet T is generated and stored in the storage unit 42.

[0067] In step S7, the control unit 43 performs a print condition inspection based on the inspection information described above. Specifically, based on the inspection information related to the print position, shape, and size stored in the storage unit 42, the control unit 43 determines whether or not the print pattern has been successfully printed on the tablet T, and print quality information indicating the print quality of the tablet T is generated and stored in the storage unit 42. For example, in the print condition inspection, the print pattern used for printing is stored in the storage unit 42 as an inspection print pattern, and good product information regarding the predetermined print position, shape, and size of the inspection print pattern is compared with the inspection information regarding the print position, shape, and size of the actual printed print pattern stored in the storage unit 42 to determine whether or not the print pattern has been successfully printed on the tablet T (pass or fail).

[0068] In step S8, the processes in steps S2 to S7 are repeated in the second printing device 50. The tablets T printed in the first printing device 20 are inverted and passed to the second printing device 50 below, where the processes in steps S2 to S7 are executed. This enables double-sided printing on the tablets T. The conveyor belt 51a is rotated in the conveying direction A2 by the rotation of the drive pulley 51b and each driven pulley 51c by the motor 51d. As a result, the tablets T passed onto the conveyor belt 51a are transported in a line on the conveyor belt 51a at a predetermined conveying speed.

[0069] In step S9, the tablets T on the conveyor belt 51a of the second printing device 50 are collected by the collection device 30. Specifically, when a reusable tablet T reaches the reusable product collection section 31 as the conveyor belt 51a moves, gas is blown onto the tablet T from above by the spray nozzle 31a, causing the tablet T to fall from the conveyor belt 51a and be collected in the collection box 31b. Similarly, when a defective tablet T reaches the defective product collection section 32 as the conveyor belt 21a moves, gas is blown onto the tablet T from above by the spray nozzle 32a, causing the tablet T to fall from the conveyor belt 51a and be collected in the collection box 32b. Furthermore, when a good tablet T reaches a position near the end of the conveyor belt 51a on the side of each driven pulley 51c, the suction effect on the tablet T is lost, and gas is blown onto the tablet T from above by the spray nozzle 33a, causing the tablet T to fall from the conveyor belt 51a and be collected in the collection box 33b. Control over the spraying of such gas is performed by the control unit 43 based on various information, such as the position information of the tablet T, printability information, and print quality information (print condition inspection result information).

[0070] In step S10, the control unit 43 determines whether printing is complete or not. For example, the number of printed tablets T is counted, and when that number reaches a predetermined production quantity, it is determined that printing is complete. If it is determined that printing is complete (Yes in step S10), the process ends. On the other hand, if it is determined that printing is not complete (No in step S10), the process returns to step S1. Regarding the determination of printing completion, it may also be determined in response to user input operations to the input device 40a, for example, when the user presses the print completion button.

[0071] In the tablet printing apparatus 1 that performs this printing process, there are a total of two positions where the score line B1 of the tablet T can be detected. As shown in Figure 1, the first position corresponds to the position of the first imaging unit 23, and the second position corresponds to the position of the first imaging unit 53.

[0072] If the score line B1 of the tablet T is detected at the first position, the score line information at that first position is used, and printing is performed on the non-scored surface of the tablet T on the upper belt, which is the conveyor belt 21a.

[0073] Furthermore, if the score line B1 of the tablet T is detected at the first position, the score line information at that first position is used, and printing is performed on the non-scored surface of the tablet T on the lower conveyor belt 51a. In printing on the conveyor belt 51a, there is a reversal (reversal when transferring from conveyor belt 21a to conveyor belt 51a) between detection and printing, so there is a possibility of an angle misalignment of the score line B1, where the angle of the detected score line B1 and the angle of the score line B1 after reversal are different. However, after the tablet T is reversed, the non-scored surface becomes the upper surface, and it is not possible to detect the angle of the score line B1 from the tablet T being conveyed by the conveyor belt 51a. For this reason, even if the printing is done with a misalignment of the score line B1 angle, it cannot be detected, and defective products in which the identification information is interrupted when the tablet T is broken along the score line B1 are discharged as good products.

[0074] However, according to this embodiment, even if the angle of the cleavage line B1 during inversion occurs as described above, the aforementioned print pattern adjustment is performed before the printing process, so it is possible to prevent the print pattern from being printed outside the printable area R1 of the non-cleavage line surface. In the print pattern adjustment, the printable area R1 of the non-cleavage line surface is determined by the acquisition unit 43a based on the print angle deviation distribution data, the printable area R1 and the planned printing area corresponding to the print pattern are compared by the generation unit 43b, and if the planned printing area does not fit within the printable area R1, the print pattern is adjusted (for example, reduced) and generated so that the planned printing area fits within the printable area R1. As a result, even in a transport operation that involves inversion of the tablet T, it is possible to prevent the print pattern from being printed outside the printable area R1 of the non-cleavage line surface, so that the print pattern can be printed in a position where the identification information is not interrupted when the tablet T is broken along the cleavage line B1. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of defective products in which the identification information is interrupted when the tablet T is broken along the cleavage line B1, and thus improve the yield rate.

[0075] If the score line B1 is not detected at the first position, the tablet T passes through without being printed by the inkjet head 24 and is transported to the second position. In this case, the tablet T is collected by the reuse collection unit 31 without printing on both sides.

[0076] As described above, according to the embodiment, the tablet printing apparatus 1 includes an acquisition unit 43a that determines the printable area R1 of the non-scored surface (non-scored surface) of a tablet T having a score line B1 on only one side, based on the distribution data of the printing angle deviation of the printed pattern (printed pattern) printed on the non-scored surface (non-scored surface), and a generation unit 43b that compares the printable area R1 with the planned printing area, which is the area of ​​the tablet T where printing is planned, and if the planned printing area does not fit within the printable area R1, it adjusts and generates the printed pattern to be printed on the tablet T so that the planned printing area fits within the printable area R1. This prevents the printed pattern from being printed outside the printable area R1 of the non-scored surface even if the angle of the score line B1 is shifted due to the inversion of the tablet T. Therefore, it becomes possible to print the printed pattern in a position where the identification information is not interrupted when the tablet T is broken along the score line B1, thereby suppressing the occurrence of defective products in which the identification information is interrupted when the tablet T is broken along the score line B1, and improving the yield rate.

[0077] The print angle misalignment distribution data is obtained by printing a manufacturing print pattern onto tablet T, but is not limited to this. For example, it may also be distribution data obtained by printing a non-manufacturing sample print pattern onto tablet T. Examples of sample print patterns include a black circular mark M1 with a predetermined diameter, as shown in Figure 12, and a directional cross mark M2, as shown in Figure 13. The print angle misalignment distribution data is created based on these sample print patterns. However, if the sample print pattern is a black circular mark M1, it may be difficult to detect the angular position misalignment, so it is desirable to use a directional mark, such as a directional cross mark M2.

[0078] Furthermore, as printing angle deviation distribution data, data may be acquired separately for reversal between the transfer feeder 13 and the transport unit 21, and for reversal between the transport unit 21 and the transport unit 51. The first printing device 20 may use the former distribution data, and the second printing device 40 may use the latter distribution data to adjust the printing pattern.

[0079] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the generation unit 43b compares the printable area R1 and the planned printing area and adjusts the print pattern, but the invention is not limited to this, and the operator may perform the comparison and adjustment. For example, the printable area R1 and the planned printing area obtained by the acquisition unit 43a may be displayed on a display, which is an example of the output device 40b of the tablet printing apparatus 1, and the operator may operate the input device 40a (e.g., a touch panel or mouse) to adjust the print pattern so that the planned printing area fits within the printable area R1, and register the adjusted print pattern in the storage unit 42. Alternatively, the generation unit 43b may generate a plurality of preferred print pattern candidates corresponding to the printable area R1, display these on the display, and the operator may operate the input device 40a to select a print pattern from the plurality of print pattern candidates and register the selected print pattern in the storage unit 42.

[0080] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, we have illustrated that when it is determined that the planned printing area does not fit within the printable area R1, adjustments such as reducing the print pattern are made. However, if the reduction results in a reduction exceeding a predetermined percentage, a warning may be issued to prompt the operator to adjust the print pattern or select a print pattern as described above.

[0081] <Other Embodiments> In the above description, printing is performed on tablets T using the tablet printing apparatus 1 (tablet printing method) according to the embodiment. However, this can also be rephrased as "printing is performed on tablets T using the tablet printing apparatus 1 (tablet printing method) according to the embodiment to manufacture printed tablets T." In other words, the tablet printing apparatus 1 can be replaced with a tablet manufacturing apparatus, and the tablet printing method can be replaced with a tablet manufacturing method.

[0082] Furthermore, in the above description, the presence or position of the score line B1 of the tablet T is detected by a camera (for example, the first imaging units 23 and 53), but this is not the only method. For example, the presence or position of the score line B1 of the tablet T may be detected by a sensor such as a laser sensor. In other words, it is possible to detect the presence or position of the score line B1 of the tablet T using a detection unit such as a camera or sensor.

[0083] Furthermore, although the above explanation uses the example of transporting tablets T in a single line, it is not limited to this, and the number of lines may be two or more, and the number of transport belts 21a (51a) may also be two or more, and is not limited. Also, the number of inkjet heads 24 (54) may also be two or more, and is not limited.

[0084] Furthermore, in the above explanation, the inkjet head 24(54) was exemplified as a print head in which nozzles 24a(54a) are arranged in a single row, but it is not limited to this, and for example, a print head in which nozzles 24a are arranged in multiple rows may be used. Alternatively, multiple inkjet heads 24(54) may be arranged in a direction perpendicular to the transport direction A1 in the horizontal plane.

[0085] Furthermore, in the above description, it was given as an example that the inkjet head 24(54) is arranged such that the direction in which the nozzles 24a(54a) are aligned is perpendicular to the transport direction A1 in the horizontal plane. However, it is not limited to this, and for example, the nozzles 24a(54a) may be arranged such that the direction in which they are aligned intersects the transport direction A1(A2) in the horizontal plane.

[0086] Furthermore, although the above description states that the tablets T are supplied randomly rather than at regular intervals on the conveyor belt 21a (51a), the invention is not limited to this, and they may be supplied at regular intervals. Also, although the above description states that the tablets T are held in place by suction holes 21g (51g) formed on the conveyor belt 21a (51a), the invention is not limited to this, and they may be held and transported in pockets or the like, or they may be held and transported on the conveyor belt 21a (51a) by their own weight.

[0087] Here, the aforementioned tablet T can include tablets used for pharmaceutical, edible, cleaning, industrial, or fragrance purposes. Furthermore, tablet T can include uncoated tablets, sugar-coated tablets, film-coated tablets, enteric-coated tablets, gelatin-coated tablets, multilayer tablets, and core tablets, and various types of capsule tablets such as hard capsules and soft capsules can also be included in tablet T. In addition, tablet T can take various shapes such as disc-shaped, lens-shaped, triangular, and oval. Moreover, if the tablet T to be printed is for pharmaceutical or edible purposes, edible ink is preferable as the ink used. This edible ink can be any of synthetic dye ink, natural dye ink, dye ink, or pigment ink.

[0088] Although several embodiments of the present invention have been described above, these embodiments are presented as examples only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their variations are included in the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as in the claims of the invention and its equivalents. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0089] 1. Tablet printing device 10 Feeding device 11 Hoppa 12 Alignment Feeders 13 Transfer Feeder 20 First Printing Apparatus 21 Conveying section 21a Conveyor belt 21b Drive pulley 21c Driven Pulley 21d motor 21e Position detector 21f Suction Chamber 21g suction hole 22 Detection unit 23 First imaging unit 24 inkjet heads 24a Nozzle 25 Second imaging unit 26 Drying section 30 Recovery device 31. Recyclable Materials Collection Department 31a Spray nozzle 31b Collection box 32 Defective Product Collection Department 32a Spray nozzle 32b Collection Box 33. Good Product Collection Department 33a Spray nozzle 33b Collection Box 40 Control device 40a Input device 40b Output device 41 Image Processing Unit 42 Storage section 43 Control Unit 43a Acquisition part 43b Generator 50 Second printing device 51 Conveying section 51a Conveyor belt 51b Drive pulley 51c Driven pulley 51d motor 51e Position detector 51f Suction Chamber 52 Detection unit 53 First imaging unit 54 inkjet heads 55 Second imaging unit 56 Drying section A1 Conveying direction A2 Conveying direction B1 secant R1 Printing Possible Areas T-ingredient

Claims

1. An acquisition unit that determines the printable area of ​​the non-scored side of a tablet with a score line on only one side, based on the distribution data of the printing angle shift due to the transport of the tablet, Information processing apparatus comprising: a generation unit that compares the printable area with a planned printing area, which is the area on the tablet where printing is planned, based on a printing pattern to be printed on the tablet, and if the planned printing area does not fit within the printable area, it generates a printing pattern to be printed on the tablet so that the planned printing area fits within the printable area.

2. The acquisition unit identifies an angular range containing a predetermined proportion or more of the tablets from the print angle deviation distribution data, and determines the printable area that is permissible within the identified angular range. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

3. The aforementioned printing angle displacement distribution data is distribution data obtained by printing a directional sample printing pattern onto a tablet. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2.

4. Based on the distribution data of the printing angle shift due to the transport of the tablet, the printable area of ​​the non-scored side of a tablet with a score line on only one side is determined. The printable area is compared with the planned print area, which is the area on the tablet where printing is planned, based on the printing pattern to be printed on the tablet. If the planned print area does not fit within the printable area, the printing pattern to be printed on the tablet is adjusted and generated so that the planned print area fits within the printable area. Information processing methods including

5. Information processing equipment and A transport unit that transports tablets with a score line on only one side, An inkjet head for printing on the tablets being transported by the transport unit, Equipped with, The aforementioned information processing device is An acquisition unit that determines the printable area of ​​the non-scored surface of the tablet based on the distribution data of the printing angle deviation due to the transport of the tablet, of the printing pattern printed on the non-scored surface of the tablet, The system includes a generation unit that compares the printable area with a planned printing area, which is the area on the tablet where printing is planned, based on the printing pattern to be printed on the tablet, and if the planned printing area does not fit within the printable area, it adjusts and generates the printing pattern to be printed on the tablet so that the planned printing area fits within the printable area. The inkjet head prints the print pattern generated by the generation unit onto the tablet. Tablet printing machine.

6. The tablet further comprises a detection unit for detecting the score line, The transport unit inverts the tablet between detection by the detection unit and printing by the inkjet head. The tablet printing apparatus according to claim 5.

Images