Medicine sorting device

Abstract

(Task) Drugs can be classified regardless of whether drug data is registered. (Solution) The drug classification device (1) is equipped with a transport / classification unit (12) that receives drugs determined to have drug data corresponding to image data in the confirmed area (Ar11) of the second receiving section (14) for each type, and receives drugs determined not to have drug data corresponding to image data in the temporary determination area (Ar12).

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a drug classification device for classifying drugs, etc. Background Technology

[0002] Conventionally, multiple types of returned medications were sorted by type by pharmacists or doctors. The returned medications are those prescribed to various patients or those that have been dispensed after being prescribed. Therefore, compared to the dispensing process of organizing (distributing) medications (tablets) (one or multiple types) for each single dose based on prescription information for a single patient, from drug groups (medication cassettes) pre-organized by drug type on dispensing devices, the variety of returned medications, which are prescribed to multiple patients, is very large. For this reason, the utility of automatically sorting and reusing returned medications is high. Furthermore, the number of medications dispensed for a single dose is generally about 2 to 3 types, and at most about 10 types.

[0003] In addition, there are pharmacies or hospitals (specifically, in-hospital pharmacy departments) that discard returned medications as is in order to avoid the time and effort required for sorting tasks, or the risk of mis-administration caused by sorting errors (errors in returning to the medication cassette).

[0004] Patent Document 1 discloses a drug sorting device that automatically recognizes and stores returned ampoules or vials. This drug sorting device recognizes the orientation and position of the ampoule or vial and the characteristics of the ampoule or vial (e.g., shape, size, type, and expiration date). Then, based on the size of the recognized ampoule or vial, it associates the storage area set for each individual ampoule or vial during storage with the identification information of each individual ampoule or vial, arranges the ampoule or vial individually, and stores the individual ampoule or vial so that it can be retrieved. Prior art literature

[0005] International Release No. 2015 / 170761 (Published November 12, 2015) The problem to be solved

[0006] However, the objects of return in Patent Document 1 are ampoules or vials, and not the drugs that are not contained in containers such as tablets or capsules, or the drugs themselves that are not packaged. Therefore, Patent Document 1 does not envision identifying and automatically classifying such drugs (e.g., tablets or capsules) themselves.

[0007] In addition, Patent Document 1 does not disclose detailed information regarding the processing of data registration for a drug database (drug master) that manages drug data regarding multiple types of drugs.

[0008] One aspect of the present invention aims to realize a drug classification device capable of recognizing the drug itself and automatically classifying it. Another aspect of the present invention aims to realize a drug classification device capable of classifying drugs regardless of whether drug data is registered. means of solving the problem

[0009] A drug classification device related to one embodiment of the present invention comprises a first receiving unit for receiving a plurality of types of drugs, a second receiving unit for receiving at least a portion of the drugs in a classified state by type, an imaging unit for capturing the drugs, a determination unit for determining whether there is drug data corresponding to the image captured by the imaging unit among drug data regarding a plurality of types of drugs that are previously registered, and a classification unit for receiving drugs determined to have drug data corresponding to the image in a first area of ​​the second receiving unit by type, and receiving drugs determined not to have drug data corresponding to the image in a second area different from the first area.

[0010] In addition, a drug classification device related to one embodiment of the present invention comprises a first receiving unit for receiving a plurality of types of drugs, a second receiving unit for receiving the drugs in a classified state according to type, an imaging unit for capturing the drugs, a determination unit for determining the type of the drugs based on the image captured by the imaging unit, a classification unit for storing the drugs according to type in the second receiving unit based on the determination result by the determination unit, a drug storage unit for placing the drugs in the imaging area of ​​the imaging unit, and a shaking mechanism for shaking the drug storage unit based on the size and shape of the drugs placed on the drug storage unit.

[0011] In addition, a drug classification device related to one embodiment of the present invention comprises a first receiving unit for receiving a plurality of types of drugs, a second receiving unit for receiving the drugs in a classified state by type, an imaging unit for capturing the drugs, a determination unit for determining the type of the drugs by comparing the characteristics of the drugs extracted from the image captured by the imaging unit with drug data regarding drugs distributed by a distributor within a predetermined period among drug data regarding a plurality of registered types of drugs, and a classification unit for storing the drugs by type in the second receiving unit based on the determination result by the determination unit.

[0012] In addition, a drug classification device related to one embodiment of the present invention comprises: a first receiving unit for receiving a plurality of types of drugs; a second receiving unit for receiving the drugs in a classified state according to type; a temporary receiving unit for temporarily storing drugs that are not received in the second receiving unit; an imaging unit for capturing the drugs; a determination unit for determining the type of the drugs by comparing the image captured by the imaging unit with drug data regarding a plurality of registered drugs; a classification control unit for determining the classification position of the drugs based on the determination result by the determination unit, and combining the determined classification position with the drug data used for comparison by the determination unit and storing it in a memory unit; and a second determination unit for determining the type of the drugs by comparing the image of the drugs captured by the imaging unit with the drug data combined in the temporary receiving unit as the determined classification position when the drugs received in the temporary receiving unit are received in the second receiving unit.

[0013] In addition, a drug classification device related to one embodiment of the present invention comprises a first receiving unit for receiving a plurality of types of drugs, a second receiving unit for receiving the drugs in a classified state by type, an imaging unit for capturing the drugs, a drug data in which the degree of agreement with the characteristic extracted from the image captured by the imaging unit is greater than or equal to a predetermined value as a result of comparing the drug data regarding a plurality of registered types of drugs with the characteristic extracted from the image captured by the imaging unit as candidate data for determining the type of the drug, and a determination unit for determining the type of the drug by comparing the characteristic extracted from the image captured by the imaging unit with the candidate data, and a classification unit for storing the drugs by type in the second receiving unit based on the determination result by the determination unit.

[0014] In addition, a drug classification device related to one embodiment of the present invention comprises a first receiving unit for receiving a plurality of types of drugs, a second receiving unit for receiving the drugs in a classified state by type, an imaging unit for taking out the drugs from the first receiving unit, a determination unit for determining the type of the drugs based on the image captured by the imaging unit, a classification unit for storing the drugs by type in the second receiving unit based on the determination result by the determination unit, a distribution unit for distributing the drugs stored in the second receiving unit, a drug input unit connected to the distribution unit and into which the drugs to be distributed classified by the classification unit are introduced, and a drug drop prevention unit that functions as the bottom of the drug input unit and prevents drugs not to be distributed from falling into the distribution unit by providing a shutter that opens when the drugs to be distributed are introduced into the drug input unit.

[0015] In addition, a drug classification device related to one embodiment of the present invention comprises a first receiving unit for receiving a plurality of types of drugs, a second receiving unit for receiving the drugs in a classified state by type, an imaging unit for taking out the drugs from the first receiving unit, a determination unit for determining the type of the drugs based on the image captured by the imaging unit, a classification unit for storing the drugs by type in the second receiving unit based on the determination result by the determination unit, a distribution unit for distributing the drugs classified by the classification unit, a drug input unit connected to the distribution unit and into which the drugs classified by the classification unit are introduced, and a drug retention unit formed between the drug input unit and a drug storage area before distribution in the distribution unit, and temporarily retaining the drugs introduced from the drug input unit until all of the drugs included in one pack manufactured in the distribution unit are introduced from the drug input unit.

[0016] In addition, a drug classification device related to one embodiment of the present invention comprises a first receiving unit for receiving a plurality of types of drugs, a second receiving unit for receiving the drugs in a classified state by type, an imaging unit for capturing a drug removed from the first receiving unit, a determination unit for determining the type of the drug based on an image captured by the imaging unit, a classification unit for storing the drugs by type in the second receiving unit based on the determination result by the determination unit, a classification container detachably disposed in the second receiving unit and storing the drugs classified by the classification unit, and an object detection unit for detecting an object existing in the upper space of the classification container placed in the second receiving unit in a specified state by moving in a horizontal direction.

[0017] In addition, a drug classification device related to one embodiment of the present invention comprises: a first receiving unit for receiving a plurality of types of drugs; a second receiving unit for receiving the drugs in a classified state by type; an imaging unit for capturing a drug removed from the first receiving unit; a determination unit for determining the type of the drug based on an image captured by the imaging unit; a classification unit for storing the drugs by type in the second receiving unit based on the determination result by the determination unit; a distribution unit for distributing the drugs stored in the second receiving unit; a drug input unit connected to the distribution unit and into which the drugs classified by the classification unit are introduced; an input imaging unit for capturing the interior of the drug input unit; a count determination unit for determining the number of drugs introduced into the drug input unit based on an image captured by the input imaging unit; and a drug movement determination unit for determining the movement of the drugs from the drug input unit to the distribution unit when the count determination unit determines that there is one drug introduced into the drug input unit, and the number The judgment unit determines that there are multiple drugs in the image, and if the drug injected into the drug injection unit is removed and the drug is not included in the image captured again by the injection imaging unit, it determines that there is only one drug injected into the drug injection unit.

[0018] In addition, a drug classification device related to one embodiment of the present invention comprises: a first receiving unit for receiving a plurality of types of drugs; a second receiving unit for receiving the drugs in a classified state by type; an imaging unit for capturing a drug removed from the first receiving unit; a determination unit for determining the type of the drug based on an image captured by the imaging unit; a classification unit for storing the drugs by type in the second receiving unit based on the determination result by the determination unit; a classification container detachably disposed in the second receiving unit and storing the drugs classified by the classification unit; a container imaging unit for capturing the interior of an unused classification container before the classification unit classifies the drugs, or the interior of the classification container after all the drugs stored in the classification container have been sent out to a distribution unit for distributing the drugs; a storage determination unit for determining whether the drugs are stored in the classification container based on an image captured by the container imaging unit; and the classification container by the storage determination unit When it is determined that a drug is stored, an information storage control unit is provided that stores storage information indicating that the drug is stored in the said classification container by combining it with container identification information for identifying the said classification container. Effects of the invention

[0019] According to a drug classification device related to one embodiment of the present invention, the drug itself can be recognized and automatically classified. In addition, the drug can be classified regardless of whether drug data is registered. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0020] Figure 1 is a block diagram showing the overall configuration of a drug classification device. FIG. 2 is a drawing showing an example of the configuration of a drug classification device, (a) is a perspective view of the drug classification device, and (b) is a perspective view showing the basic configuration of the drug classification area. Figures 3 (a) and (b) are perspective views showing the overall configuration of the imaging unit, and (c) is a perspective view showing an example of a pharmaceutical storage stand. Figures 4 (a) and (b) are drawings for explaining the rotation of the imaging unit. Figure 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of drug classification processing. Figure 6 is a drawing showing an example of a classification image display. Figure 7 is a drawing showing an example of an inspection image display. Figure 8 is a drawing showing an example of a confirmation image display. Figures 9 (a) and (b) are drawings showing examples of display of search images, and (c) is a drawing showing an example of an image captured by a first camera. Figure 10 (a) is a drawing showing an example of a registered image, and (b) is a drawing explaining an example of an image adjustment process. Figure 11 is a drawing showing an example of a registration image when registering a capsule. Figure 12 is a drawing showing an example of a registration image when registering another capsule. Figure 13 is a diagram showing an example of a data management system. Figure 14 (a) is a plan view showing an example of a drug storage stand moved to a placement area, and (b) and (c) are plan views showing an example of a drug storage stand after adjusting the position of the drug. FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of an image captured by a second camera of a first receiving part. FIG. 16 is a drawing for explaining an example of a distributor, (a) is a front view of the distributor, (b) is a drawing showing an example of a cassette storage mechanism, and (c) and (d) are drawings for explaining examples of using a supplementary table. Figure 17 is a block diagram showing an example of a distributor. Figures 18 (a) to (d) are drawings showing an example of a non-rotating cassette storage mechanism. Figure 19 is a drawing showing an example of a user-configured image. Figure 20 (a) is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration of a drug dispenser, and (b) is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration of a manual spraying unit. Figure 21 is a flowchart showing an example of distribution processing in a distributor. Figure 22 is a flowchart showing an example of distribution processing in a distributor. Figures 23 (a) and (b) are drawings showing examples of the operation of the adsorption mechanism. FIG. 24 is a drawing showing an example of a slender, elongated pharmaceutical product, (a) is a top view, and (b) is a side view. Figure 25 (a) is a drawing showing an example of the configuration of a drug sorting device as a modified example, and (b) and (c) are drawings for explaining the shape and operation of the tip of a sorting cup conveying mechanism. FIG. 26 is a block diagram showing an example of a control unit. Figure 27 (a) is a perspective view showing an example of a drug classification device, and (b) is a schematic plan view showing said example. Figures 28 (a) and (b) are drawings for explaining the upper space. Figures 29 (a) to (d) are diagrams for explaining the positioning operation of the drug transport unit. Figures 30 (a) and (b) are drawings for explaining object detection using an indentation detection unit. FIG. 31 is a drawing for explaining the determination of the presence or absence of an adsorption pad. FIG. 32 is a perspective view showing an example of the placement positions of a light fixture and a backlight. Figure 33 is a drawing illustrating an example of drug placement on a standby tray. FIG. 34 is a drawing showing an example of the configuration of a distribution mechanism, (a) is a schematic drawing showing an example of the configuration of a part of the distribution mechanism, (b) and (c) are drawings for explaining the opening and closing operation in the upper shutter mechanism, and (d) and (e) are drawings for explaining the opening and closing operation in the lower shutter mechanism. FIG. 35 is a flowchart illustrating a treatment example for dropping one drug at a time from a drug inlet during distribution treatment. Figure 36 is a drawing showing an example of a residual energy confirmation image. Figure 37 (a) is a drawing showing an example of a similar drug registration image, and (b) is a drawing showing an example of a similar drug selection image. Figure 38 (a) is a diagram showing an example of a classification image before selecting a return source, and (b) is a diagram showing an example of a return source registration image. Figure 39 (a) is a drawing showing an example of a return source selection image, and (b) is a drawing showing an example of a classification image after return source selection. Figure 40 (a) is a diagram showing an example of factoring for a distribution area, and (b) is a diagram showing an example of factoring for a journal. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0021] [Embodiment 1]

[0022] [Overview of drug classification device (1)]

[0023] First, an overview of the drug classification device (1) will be explained using FIGS. 1 and FIGS. 2. FIGS. 1 is a block diagram showing the overall configuration of the drug classification device (1). FIGS. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the drug classification device (1), (a) is a perspective view of the drug classification device (1), and (b) is a perspective view showing the basic configuration of the drug classification area (2). As shown in FIGS. 1 and FIGS. 2 (a) and (b), the drug classification device (1) is equipped with a drug classification area (2), a touch panel (3), a print output unit (4), and a distribution mechanism (6).

[0024] The drug classification device (1) captures images of each of multiple types of drugs, determines the type of drug based on the images obtained from the capture, and classifies the drugs by type. Specifically, this processing is carried out in the drug classification area (2). The drug classification area (2) (internal configuration of the drug classification device (1)) will be described later. In addition, the drugs classified by type are distributed or returned to a drug shelf or dispenser after a visual inspection by a user is performed.

[0025] In this embodiment, multiple types of drugs are drugs that are not contained in containers, etc., or drugs that are not packaged, etc., and are described as tablets or capsules as examples thereof. Additionally, multiple types of drugs are described as drugs that have been returned. Drug returns include cases where drugs adopted by a pharmacy or hospital are returned as "drugs returned" by the said pharmacy or hospital, and cases where "drugs brought by the patient" are returned by the said pharmacy or hospital, which may include drugs issued by other pharmacies or hospitals in addition to the drugs adopted by the said pharmacy or hospital. In other words, the concept of drugs that are returned includes at least one of the above "drugs returned" and "drugs brought by the patient." The drug sorting device (1) is capable of automatically performing processing from imaging to sorting after the drugs are returned.

[0026] The touch panel (3) receives various user inputs from the control unit (31) and displays various images (e.g., an image showing the trend of drug classification, an image for visual inspection) from the display unit (32).

[0027] The print output unit (4) prints a journal containing drug data (e.g., data indicating the name of the drug, manufacturer, or ingredients) regarding the drug after visual inspection, in accordance with user input after visual inspection. The drug data may include image data indicating an image unique to the drug.

[0028] The distribution mechanism (6) distributes the classified drugs. The distribution mechanism (6) is an optional mechanism. When the distribution mechanism (6) is provided in the drug classification device (1), it becomes possible to perform the processing from the classification of returned drugs to distribution after visual inspection in the drug classification device (1). In particular, when drugs are fed into the distribution mechanism (6) by the return / classification unit (12), the processing from classification to distribution can be performed automatically, excluding visual inspection.

[0029] For the distribution mechanism (6), it is possible to use the distribution section of a conventional tablet distributor or powder distributor. In this case, for example, the drugs in the classification cup (141) classified by drug type can be distributed into one or multiple packets.

[0030] Additionally, the drug classification device (1) is equipped with a first RFID (Radio Frequency Identifier) ​​reader / writer unit (5). As shown in FIG. 2 (b), the first RFID reader / writer unit (5) is formed on the drug extraction side of the base (19).

[0031] The first RFID reader / writer unit (5) reads data regarding the drugs stored in each sorting cup (141), which is stored in an RFID tag (not shown) formed at the bottom of each sorting cup (141) of the second receiving part (14). The data may include, for example, the number of drugs stored, drug data, and image data acquired by the imaging unit (13). The data may include drug data determined by visual inspection (drug data after visual inspection). Additionally, drug data after visual inspection may be recorded on the RFID tag. Drug data after visual inspection is used when distributing the drugs stored in the corresponding sorting cup (141) to (1) a distribution mechanism (6) or a distributor different from the drug sorting device (1), or (2) when returning to the drug shelf.

[0032] Also, as shown in FIG. 2(a), the drug sorting device (1) is equipped with an opening / closing shutter (51) and an opening / closing door (52) that allow the extraction side of the drug to be opened / closed. In order to move the drug contained in the second receiving section (14) to the distribution mechanism (6), the drug sorting device (1) is equipped with, for example, a packaging hopper (not shown) that temporarily holds the drug, and a moving passage (not shown) that moves the drug held in the packaging hopper to the distribution mechanism (6). Also, at least the moving passage is made detachable. By opening the opening / closing door (52), the moving passage can be brought out to the outside of the drug sorting device (1).

[0033] [Basic composition of the drug classification area (2)]

[0034] Next, using Figures 1 and 2 (b), the basic configuration of the drug classification area (2) (internal configuration of the drug classification device (1)) will be explained.

[0035] As shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2(b), the drug classification area (2) is equipped with, as hardware, a first receiving section (11), a return / classification unit (12) (classification section), an imaging unit (13), a second receiving section (14), a waiting tray (15), a return tray (16), a drug input port (17), and a second RFID reader / writer unit (18). Each component, excluding the return / classification unit (12), is formed on a base (19). The main functions of the return / classification unit (12), the imaging unit (13), and the second RFID reader / writer unit (18) will be explained in detail in the description of each process described later.

[0036] The first receiving section (11) receives multiple types of medicines returned by the user in a mixed state. In this embodiment, the first receiving section (11) is divided into multiple receiving sections. In this case, for example, when all the medicines received in one receiving section are returned by the return / sorting unit (12), the medicines received in the receiving section adjacent to that receiving section become the subject of return. Also, the first receiving section (11) may be formed to be rotatable about the Z-axis (center of the cylinder shape). In this case, the control unit (60a) of the computer (60) may rotate the first receiving section (11) so that the return / sorting unit (12) can easily acquire the medicines, for example, at the timing when one receiving section is emptied.

[0037] The second receiving unit (14) is equipped with a plurality of sorting cups (141) that receive the drugs classified by type. The control unit (60a) determines the type of the drug based on an image of the drug captured by the imaging unit (13), and determines the sorting cup (141) that stores the drug based on the determination result. The drug is returned to the determined sorting cup (141) by the return / sorting unit (12) and stored.

[0038] The standby tray (15) is a receiving section where drugs are temporarily placed. For example, when drugs are stored in all sorting cups (141), drugs identified by the control unit (60a) as being of a type other than those are temporarily placed in the standby tray (15). In this case, after the drugs are removed from the sorting cups (141), they may be returned from the standby tray (15) to the sorting cups (141).

[0039] Also, in this embodiment, a presumed drug (described later) presumed to be a drug may be temporarily placed in the waiting tray (15). When a presumed drug is temporarily placed, it is returned to a predetermined area of ​​the second receiving section (14) according to the determination result of the control section (60a).

[0040] The recovery tray (16) is a receiving section for storing items whose type could not be identified by the control unit (60a) (e.g., foreign substances other than pharmaceuticals). Examples of foreign substances other than pharmaceuticals include fragments of PTP (Press Through Pack) sheets. Fragments of PTP sheets may be mixed into the first receiving section (11) when pharmaceuticals are returned. Additionally, the control unit (60a) stores pharmaceuticals registered in the pharmaceutical database as pharmaceuticals to be disposed of, or pharmaceuticals that the user wishes to dispose of (e.g., pharmaceuticals with an old manufacturing date) in the recovery tray (16).

[0041] The drug inlet (17) is intended to transfer the drug stored in the second receiving section (14) to the distribution mechanism (6) by the return / classification unit (12) when the drug classification device (1) is equipped with a distribution mechanism (6). Naturally, when the drug classification device (1) is not equipped with a distribution mechanism (6), the drug inlet (17) is an unnecessary component.

[0042] Additionally, as shown in FIG. 1, a computer (60) is provided to collectively control each of the above components (hardware) of the drug classification device (1). The computer (60) is provided with a control unit (60a) (software) mainly comprising a return control unit (61), a classification control unit (62), an image control unit (63), a discrimination unit (64), an operation input unit (66), a display control unit (67), an RFID control unit (68), a print output control unit (69), and a registration unit (70). The return control unit (61), the classification control unit (62), the image control unit (63), the discrimination unit (64), and the registration unit (70) will be explained in detail in the description of each process described later.

[0043] The operation input unit (66) and the display control unit (67) each control the operation unit (31) and the display unit (32) of the touch panel (3). The RFID control unit (68) controls the first RFID reader / writer unit (5) and the second RFID reader / writer unit (18). The print output control unit (69) controls the print output unit (4) according to the user input received by the operation input unit (66). Additionally, if the drug classification device (1) is equipped with a distribution mechanism (6), the control unit (60a) is equipped with a distribution control unit that controls the distribution mechanism (6).

[0044] Additionally, the computer (60) is equipped with a memory unit (80). The memory unit (80) stores a drug database (drug master) that manages drug data regarding multiple types of drugs, and image data representing an image captured by the first camera (131). Furthermore, various data stored in the memory unit (80) may not be managed by the memory unit (80) and may be managed by, for example, an external device. In this case, the control unit (60a) may acquire the various data from the said external device via a communication line such as the internet as needed. Also, the drug database may be updated by adding new drug data.

[0045] [Overview of treatment in the drug classification device (1)]

[0046] In the drug sorting device (1), the return / sorting unit (12) returns each drug returned to the first receiving unit (11) to the imaging unit (13). The sequential imaging unit (13) captures each returned drug. The control unit (60a) determines the type of each drug based on the captured image and determines the sorting position of each identified drug in the second receiving unit (14). The return / sorting unit (12) returns each drug to the determined sorting position. Then, information regarding the drugs stored in the second receiving unit (14) is recorded in the RFID tag of the sorting cup (141), stored in the memory unit (80), or displayed on the touch panel (3). Additionally, after the sorting of drugs is completed or during the sorting process, the user operates the touch panel (3) to perform visual inspection, distribution, and other processing. Afterwards, each process is explained in detail.

[0047] [Processing of drug return to imaging unit (13)]

[0048] First, the process of transporting the drug from the first receiving unit (11) to the imaging unit (13) will be explained using (a) of FIGS. 1 and FIGS. 2.

[0049] Specifically, the return / sorting unit (12) returns the drug received in the first receiving unit (11) to the receiving area (Ar1) (see (b) in FIG. 3) where the imaging unit (13) receives the drug. The return control unit (61) controls the return processing by the return / sorting unit (12).

[0050] The return / sorting unit (12) is equipped with a second camera (121), an adsorption / shutter mechanism (122), and a return mechanism (123).

[0051] The second camera (121) sequentially captures the first receiving portion (11) to identify the drug to be transported. The imaging control unit (63) controls the imaging processing of the second camera (121). The second camera (121) is formed at the end portion facing the base (19) of the transport / classification unit (12) (specifically, a casing including at least the adsorption / shutter mechanism (122)). The second camera (121) may also be formed at the tip portion of the adsorption mechanism described later. The imaging control unit (63) analyzes the captured image and determines whether the drug is included in the image. When it is determined that a drug is included, the return control unit (61), for example, brings the tip portion close to the first receiving portion (11) and then identifies the drug included in the captured image as the drug to be returned.

[0052] The adsorption / shutter mechanism (122) includes an adsorption mechanism for adsorbing a specific drug designated as a transport target, and a shutter mechanism for preventing the drug adsorbed by the adsorption mechanism from falling. The adsorption mechanism is formed to be movable in the Z-axis direction. The shutter mechanism is formed to be movable in the front of the end portion, approximately parallel to the XY plane.

[0053] When acquiring a drug, the adsorption mechanism extends from the above end, adsorbs a specific drug at the leading end, and then returns to the position of the above end. In this state, the conveying control unit (61) moves the shutter mechanism to a position opposite the above end and maintains the position of the shutter mechanism during drug conveying (closed state). When the conveying control unit (61) moves the adsorption / shutter mechanism (122) to a position opposite the drug storage stand (133a) (see Fig. 3 (b)) of the drug holding mechanism (133) placed in the receiving area (Ar1), it moves the shutter mechanism to a position not opposite the above end (open state). Then, after extending the adsorption mechanism from the above end, the adsorption state is released, thereby placing the drug on the drug storage stand (133a).

[0054] The conveying mechanism (123) moves the adsorption shutter mechanism (122) in the X-axis and Y-axis directions under the control of the conveying control unit (61). Through this conveying mechanism (123), movement of the adsorption shutter mechanism (122) during the search for a drug to be conveyed on the first receiving unit (11), or conveying of the drug from the first receiving unit (11) to the drug storage unit (133a) becomes possible. In addition, in the drug classification process described later, conveying of the drug from the drug storage unit (133a) to the second receiving unit (14), the waiting tray (15), or the recovery tray (16) becomes possible.

[0055] [Drug Imaging Processing]

[0056] Next, the drug imaging processing by the imaging unit (13) will be explained using FIGS. 1, FIGS. 2(b), FIGS. 3, and FIGS. 4. FIGS. 3(a) and (b) are perspective views showing the overall configuration of the imaging unit (13), and FIGS. 3(c) is a perspective view showing an example of a drug storage stand (133a). FIGS. 4(a) and (b) are drawings for explaining the rotation of the imaging unit (13). The drug imaging processing is mainly carried out by the imaging unit (13) and the imaging control unit (63).

[0057] Specifically, the imaging unit (13) images a drug placed in a placement area (Ar2) (imaging area) that is placed on a drug placement stand (133a) and is an imaging target drug shown in (b) of FIG. 3. The imaging control unit (63) controls the imaging processing by the imaging unit (13), the rotational movement of the first camera (131) and the illuminator (134), and the movement of the drug holding mechanism (133). As shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 3, the imaging unit (13) is equipped with a first camera (131) (imaging unit), a rotation mechanism (132) (rotation unit), a drug holding mechanism (133) (drug placement stand, movement mechanism), and an illuminator (134) (ultraviolet light irradiation unit, visible light irradiation unit).

[0058] The first camera (131) captures a drug placed in a placement area (Ar2) facing the first camera (131) in order to determine the type of drug in the discrimination unit (64) described later. The drug holding mechanism (133) is a mechanism for holding a drug and, as shown in FIG. 3 (a) and (b), is equipped with a drug holding plate (petri) (133a), a turning mechanism (133b) (moving mechanism), and an axis (133c) connecting the drug holding plate (133a) and the turning mechanism (133b). The drug holding plate (133a) holds the drug to be captured. The pivoting mechanism (133b) moves the drug storage stand (133a), and specifically, while pivoting the drug storage stand (133a) with respect to the XY plane, it also pivots the axis portion (133c) in the circumferential direction of the axis portion (133c).

[0059] When the drug transported from the first receiving unit (11) is placed in the drug placement unit (133a), the imaging control unit (63) drives the turning mechanism (133b) and moves the drug placement unit (133a) from the receiving area (Ar1) to the placement area (Ar2). After that, at least the first camera (131) and the illuminator (134) are controlled to capture the drug placed in the placement area (Ar2). The captured image is stored as image data in the memory unit (80). For example, after the imaging is completed, the imaging control unit (63) drives the turning mechanism (133b) and moves the drug placement unit (133a) on which the captured drug is placed from the placement area (Ar2) to the receiving area (Ar1).

[0060] In this embodiment, two drug storage units (133a) are formed at the tip (end) of the shaft (133c). The pivoting mechanism (133b) pivots the shaft (133c) so that when one drug storage unit (133a) is placed in the placement area (Ar2), the other drug storage unit (133a) is placed in the receiving area (Ar1). When imaging drugs in the placement area (Ar2), the drug is transported from the first receiving part (11) to the drug storage unit (133a) in the receiving area (Ar1) by the transport / sorting unit (12), thereby enabling continuous imaging processing of the drug. In addition, the drug storage area (133a) is assumed to be in a state where no drug is stored, such as after the drug classification process to the second receiving area (14).

[0061] Also, in this embodiment, the drug placement area (133a) has transparency. Therefore, the first camera (131) can capture images of the drug placed on the drug placement area (133a) from various angles through the drug placement area (133a).

[0062] Also, as shown in FIG. 3 (c), the drug storage base (133a) may have a cross-sectional shape approximately V-shaped with a concave bottom. Also, as shown in FIG. 3 (b) and FIG. 4, when the drug storage base (133a) is placed in the receiving area (Ar1) and the placement area (Ar2), the groove direction (the elongation direction of the axis portion (133c)) of the cross-sectional shape approximately V-shaped is approximately parallel to the pivot axis (Ay) of the imaging mechanism (described later) by the rotation mechanism (132). Also, the bottom of the drug storage base (133a) does not have to be an acute V-shaped shape. As shown in FIG. 3 (c), the bottom portion may be provided with a bottom surface portion (133aa) and an inclined surface portion (133ab) inclined from two points opposite to the bottom surface portion (133aa). The shape of the bottom portion is such that the information (imprint information or print information) indicated by the imprint or print of the drug can be recognized even when viewed from the back of the drug storage stand (133a), and the shape is such that the drug is fixed.

[0063] If the drug is a capsule or a modified tablet (e.g., rugby ball shape), if the bottom of the drug holder (133a) is flat, the direction of the drug in the XY plane may be uneven, making it difficult to obtain a clear image of the drug (imprint information or factor information). If the cross-section is approximately V-shaped, the capsule or modified tablet can be fitted into the bottom end to secure the drug. Therefore, it becomes easier to obtain a clear image of the drug. In addition, in the case of a tablet, for example, by rotating the shaft (133c) in the circumferential direction of the shaft (133c), the flat portion (inclined surface portion (133ab)) of the drug holder (133a) can be positioned toward the first camera (131), thereby ensuring that the drug is not moved.

[0064] Additionally, the turning mechanism (133b) may also vibrate (move slightly or shake) the drug storage stand (133a). In this case, for example, by applying vibration to the capsule placed on the drug storage stand (133a) and rolling it, the part of the capsule with the printed design can be oriented in a predetermined direction (e.g., the part can be oriented toward the first camera (131) placed at the initial position described later). Also, by the vibration, for example, even if a cylindrical tablet (with a circular bottom) is placed upright on the flat part, the tablet can be tilted sideways (placed so that the bottom of the tablet faces the flat part).

[0065] The illuminator (134) emits light that is irradiated onto the drug when the drug is imaged, under the control of the image control unit (63). As shown in FIG. 3 (a), the illuminator (134) is equipped with a visible light irradiation unit (first irradiation unit (134a) and second irradiation unit (134b)) that irradiates visible light onto the drug, and an ultraviolet light irradiation unit (134c) that irradiates ultraviolet light onto the drug.

[0066] The first irradiation unit (134a) and the second irradiation unit (134b) irradiate white light as visible light onto the drug. The first irradiation unit (134a) is a bar-shaped visible light source (bar illumination), and the second irradiation unit (134b) is a ring-shaped visible light source (ring illumination). The first camera (131) receives visible light emitted from the first irradiation unit (134a) or the second irradiation unit (134b) and reflected from the drug, thereby acquiring an image based on visible light (visible light image). The imaging control unit (63) outputs image data representing the visible light image acquired by the first camera (131) to the discrimination unit (64).

[0067] The ultraviolet light irradiation unit (134c) irradiates the drug with ultraviolet light (e.g., light having a peak wavelength of 365 nm or more and 410 nm or less) to excite the components contained in the drug. Accordingly, fluorescence (e.g., light having a peak wavelength of 410 nm or more and 800 nm or less) is emitted from the drug. The first camera (131) acquires an image based on ultraviolet light (ultraviolet light image) by receiving the fluorescence emitted from the drug. The imaging control unit (63) outputs image data representing the ultraviolet light image acquired by the first camera (131) to the discrimination unit (64).

[0068] As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the rotation mechanism (132) rotates the first camera (131) to rotate around a placement area (Ar2) (a drug placement stand (133a) placed at the said location) where the drug to be captured is placed. The first camera (131) captures the drug placed in the placement area (Ar2) from a plurality of positions rotated by the rotation mechanism (132). Specifically, the imaging mechanism including the first camera (131) and the illuminator (134) rotates to rotate around the placement area (Ar2). Therefore, the first camera (131) can capture the drug from a plurality of directions while maintaining the positional relationship between the first camera (131) and the illuminator (134) with respect to the placement area (Ar2).

[0069] The rotation mechanism (132) includes an imaging mechanism drive unit (132a) and a power transmission mechanism (132b), as shown in FIG. 3 (a). The imaging mechanism drive unit (132a) generates power to rotate the imaging mechanism around the placement area (Ar2). The power transmission mechanism (132b) transmits the power generated by the imaging mechanism drive unit (132a) to the imaging mechanism. The imaging mechanism drive unit (132a) is driven by the control of the imaging control unit (63) and changes the position of the imaging mechanism around the placement area (Ar2).

[0070] The rotation mechanism (132) rotates the imaging mechanism between an initial position and a position opposite the initial position. The initial position is a position approximately perpendicular to the placement area (Ar2) and is a position above the placement area (Ar2). The position opposite the initial position is a position approximately perpendicular to the placement area (Ar2) and is a position below the placement area (Ar2). Also, the position can be said to be a position where the first camera (131) is opposite the bottom of the drug placement table (133a) located in the placement area (Ar2).

[0071] As shown in FIG. 4, an axis parallel to the Z-axis passing through the center of the placement area (Ar2) is designated as axis Ax0, and an axis passing through the center of the placement area (Ar2) and the center of the imaging mechanism is designated as axis Ax1. Additionally, the angle formed by axis (Ax0) and axis (Ax1) is designated as θ. In this embodiment, the rotation mechanism (132) places the imaging mechanism at any of the positions θ = 0° (initial position), 45°, 135°, and 180°. Additionally, FIG. 4 (a) shows the case where the imaging mechanism is at the position θ = 0°, and FIG. 4 (b) shows the case where the imaging mechanism rotates from the initial position to the position θ = 45°.

[0072] In this way, by rotating the imaging mechanism around the placement area (Ar2), the drug can be imaged from multiple directions while the drug is fixed in the placement area (Ar2). Also, even if the drug (tablet) remains standing when the drug placement stand (133a) is shaken, information such as the imprint on the drug can be obtained by imaging from an oblique direction (θ = 45° or 135°).

[0073] In addition, the drug may be imaged from multiple directions by fixing the imaging device and rotating the drug.

[0074] (Image position control)

[0075] Next, an example of position control of the imaging mechanism is described. The imaging control unit (63) first sets the imaging mechanism to an initial position and images the pharmaceutical agent placed in the placement area (Ar2) at the initial position with the first camera (131). At this time, the first camera (131) acquires a visible light image (two visible light images) based on visible light from the first irradiation unit (134a) and the second irradiation unit (134b), and at the same time acquires a UV light image based on ultraviolet light from the ultraviolet light irradiation unit (134c).

[0076] Next, the imaging control unit (63) sets the imaging mechanism at a position opposite to the initial position and images the drug placed in the placement area (Ar2) at the first camera (131) to acquire two visible light images and one ultraviolet light image. The discrimination unit (64) determines the type of drug by analyzing these six images. If the type of drug could not be identified as one, the imaging control unit (63) emits visible light from the first irradiation unit (134a) and the second irradiation unit (134b) at positions θ = 45° and 135° to image the drug with the first camera (131). The discrimination unit (64) determines the type of drug by analyzing the visible light image at this time.

[0077] The above is not limited to the above, and various methods may be used for position control of the imaging mechanism. For example, imaging may be performed at a position opposite to the initial position, and then imaging may be performed at the initial position. Also, drug identification processing based on the visible light image captured at the position θ = 45° may be performed, and only when the type of drug could not be identified as one may the visible light image captured at the position θ = 135° be acquired. Additionally, only ultraviolet images may be acquired at the initial position and the position opposite to the initial position, and after drug identification processing based on the said ultraviolet images is performed, the visible light image at the said position may be acquired. Furthermore, visible light images and ultraviolet images may be acquired at all positions.

[0078] [Image Processing · Discrimination Processing]

[0079] Next, image processing of an image captured by an imaging unit (13) and identification processing of a drug based on the result of image processing will be explained using FIG. 1. The image processing is mainly performed by an imaging control unit (63), and the identification processing is mainly performed by a identification unit (64).

[0080] The identification unit (64) identifies the type of drug based on an image of the drug captured by the first camera (131). Specifically, the identification unit (64) identifies the type of drug based on the image result (visible light image) of the drug captured while visible light is irradiated from the first irradiation unit (134a) or the second irradiation unit (134b). In addition, the identification unit (64) identifies the type of drug based on the image result (ultraviolet light image) of the drug captured while ultraviolet light is irradiated.

[0081] The identification unit (64) extracts the characteristics of the drug included in the image by performing image analysis on each of the visible light image and / or ultraviolet light image. In other words, the identification unit (64) has a feature extraction unit (64a) (identification information extraction unit) that extracts the characteristics of the drug. Examples of the characteristics of the drug include size, shape, imprint, print, secant line, and representative color (color of the area where the imprint or print is applied). When OCR (Optical Character Recognition) is performed, other information such as the drug name (e.g., identification code) or identification information indicating the manufacturer (identification information for identifying the drug) and expiration date is extracted as characteristics of the drug. Also, in the case of an ultraviolet light image, the representative color of the drug in the image may be an example of the characteristics of the drug. The identification unit (64) combines the extracted characteristics of each drug with the image data of the drug and stores them in the memory unit (80). In addition, the extraction of drug characteristics may be carried out using known techniques.

[0082] The identification unit (64) identifies the type of drug by comparing the characteristics of each drug with the drug database. In other words, the identification unit (64) has a drug data extraction unit (64b) that compresses candidate drug data regarding the captured drug from the drug database using pattern matching, etc., based on the extracted characteristics of the drug. In this case, for example, candidate drug data is compressed using at least one of the size, shape, imprint, print, secant line, and representative color described above. After that, the identification unit (64) performs OCR, etc., to read identification information, etc., displayed on the imprint or print, and further compresses the type of drug from the above candidates using pattern matching, etc.

[0083] Additionally, the identification unit (64) identifies the type of drug as a presumed drug if, even if the drug characteristic (target characteristic) extracted using pattern matching, etc., is not in the drug database, it is presumed to be a drug (tablet or capsule) based on at least a part of the target characteristic. In this case, the presumed drug may also be classified into the second receiving unit (14) or the waiting tray (15). In this embodiment, the presumed drug may first be temporarily placed in the waiting tray (15).

[0084] In this way, the determination unit (64) (determination unit) determines whether there is drug data corresponding to an image (image data) captured by the first camera (131) among the drug data (drug database) regarding multiple types of drugs that have been registered in advance.

[0085] The determination unit (64) outputs the determination result of the drug type to the classification control unit (62). For example, if the drug type can be identified as one, or if it is compressed into a number of candidates within a predetermined number, the drug data regarding the drug is output as the determination result. In this case, the determination unit (64) combines the drug data regarding the drug with the image data of the drug and stores it in the memory unit (80).

[0086] When the identification unit (64) identifies the type of drug as a presumed drug, it outputs the characteristics of the drug (characteristics of the presumed drug) as the identification result. Meanwhile, when the identification unit (64) identifies the drug as a drug registered as a drug to be discarded in the drug database, or when it identifies the substance received in the first receiving unit (11) as a foreign substance other than a drug, it outputs the fact that it is a drug other than the classification target as the identification result.

[0087] [Drug Classification Processing]

[0088] Next, the drug classification process based on the result of the above-mentioned discrimination process will be explained using FIGS. 1, FIGS. 5 to FIGS. 8. FIGS. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of the drug classification process. FIGS. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the display of a classification image (Im1) (classification screen). FIGS. 7 is a diagram showing an example of the display of an inspection image (Im2) (inspection screen). FIGS. 8 is a diagram showing an example of the display of a confirmation image (confirmation screen) (Im3). The above-mentioned drug classification process is mainly carried out by a return / classification unit (12) and a classification control unit (62).

[0089] In addition, in FIG. 5, for convenience, symbols A to F and 1 to 7 are assigned to specify the location of the sorting cup (141) that can be placed in the second receiving portion (14). Also, the sorting cup (141) is a sorting container in which the sorted medicine is received, and can be disassembled and placed in the second receiving portion (14).

[0090] As described above, the drug contained in the first receiving section (11) is returned from the first receiving section (11) to the receiving area (Ar1) (see (i) in FIG. 5) and then moved to the placement area (Ar2). After being captured by the first camera (131), the drug is moved from the placement area (Ar2) back to the receiving area (Ar1). Then, in this embodiment, the drug is returned via the path shown in (ii), (iii) to (v), or (vi) in FIG. 5 based on the determination result by the determination section (64).

[0091] Specifically, the return / sorting unit (12) stores the drugs in the second receiving unit (14) or in the waiting tray (15) according to the determination result by the determination unit (64) (see (ii) and (iii) of FIG. 5). The sorting control unit (62) controls the return / sorting unit (12) to return the drugs placed in the receiving area (Ar1) after imaging and determination processing to a predetermined sorting cup (141) of the second receiving unit (14) or the waiting tray (15) based on the determination result.

[0092] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 5, in this embodiment, the second receiving portion (14) is configured with a confirmed area (Ar11) (first area) and a temporary determination area (Ar12) (second area). The confirmed area (Ar11) is an area for accommodating drugs for which drug data corresponding to the image data is determined to exist by the determination portion (64). Meanwhile, the temporary determination area (Ar12) is an area configured at a different location from the confirmed area (Ar11) for accommodating drugs for which drug data corresponding to the image data is determined not to exist by the determination portion (64).

[0093] In the example of Fig. 5, a fixed area (Ar11) is set at A-1 to F-5 on the drug extraction side, and a temporary judgment area (Ar12) is set at B-6 to F-7, which are located away from the drug extraction side. However, the setting locations and ranges of the fixed area (Ar11) and the temporary judgment area (Ar12) are not limited to this and can be changed according to the user's convenience.

[0094] Also, as in the example of Fig. 5, when the confirmed area (Ar11) is set wider than the temporary judgment area (Ar12), it is acceptable to say that the drug classification device (1) is set to the "confirmed area effective utilization mode" which effectively utilizes the confirmed area (Ar11) in the second receiving section (14).

[0095] The return / classification unit (12) accommodates drugs determined to have drug data corresponding to image data in a confirmed area (Ar11) for each type (see (ii) or (v) of FIG. 5). Meanwhile, the return / classification unit (12) accommodates drugs determined to not have drug data corresponding to image data in a temporary determination area (Ar12) (see (iv) of FIG. 5).

[0096] (In the case of (ii) of Fig. 5)

[0097] When the classification control unit (62) receives drug data regarding the drug as a result of determination, the determination unit (64) determines that there is drug data corresponding to the image data, and determines a classification location (classification cup (141)) for storing the drug in the confirmed area (Ar11). Also, the classification control unit (62) assigns the determination result (drug data) and the determined classification location and stores them in the memory unit (80).

[0098] When the classification control unit (62) determines the classification position, it controls the return mechanism (123) in the same way as the return control unit (61) to move the return / classification unit (12) upward in the receiving area (Ar1). The classification control unit (62) controls the second camera (121) and the adsorption / shutter mechanism (122) in the same way as the return control unit (61) to adsorb the drug placed in the receiving area (Ar1). After that, the drug is returned to the determined classification cup (141) by the return mechanism (123). After returning, the drug is stored in the classification cup (141) by releasing the adsorption. Also, the classification control unit (62) counts the number of drugs stored in the classification cup (141), associates them with the classification position, and stores them in the memory unit (80).

[0099] (In the case of (iii) in Fig. 5)

[0100] When the classification control unit (62) receives a determination result that the type of drug is an estimated drug, the determination unit (64) determines that there is no drug data corresponding to the image data, and determines the waiting tray (15) as the classification location. Then, the classification control unit (62) controls the return / classification unit (12) to return the drug from the receiving area (Ar1) to the waiting tray (15).

[0101] For example, in the above "determined area effective utilization mode," after the classification of the drugs received in the first receiving unit (11) (classification into a determined area (Ar11), a waiting tray (15), or a recovery tray (16)) is completed, the drugs received in the waiting tray (15) are again subjected to a determination process by the determination unit (64). In short, in the above "determined area effective utilization mode," drugs whose types have been determined are classified into the determined area (Ar11), and estimated drugs are temporarily placed in the waiting tray (15) for the time being. Then, after the drugs whose types have been determined are classified into the determined area (Ar11), reclassification of the estimated drugs received in the waiting tray (15) is performed. Specifically, the classification control unit (62) controls the return / classification unit (12) to return the drug from the waiting tray (15) to the receiving area (Ar1). After that, the drug is moved from the receiving area (Ar1) to the placement area (Ar2), and then the drug imaging processing and image processing / identification processing described above are performed on the drug.

[0102] As a result, if the determination unit (64) determines that there is drug data corresponding to the image data, the classification control unit (62) determines the classification cup (141) that does not contain the drug in the confirmed area (Ar11) (classification cup (141) that is not determined as the classification position) as the classification position. After that, the classification control unit (62) controls the return / classification unit (12) as described above to return the drug from the receiving area (Ar1) to the classification cup (141) in the confirmed area (Ar11) that was determined as the classification position (see (v) in FIG. 5). Also, the classification control unit (62) combines the specific drug data in the drug database with the determined classification position and stores it in the memory unit (80).

[0103] Meanwhile, if the determination unit (64) determines once again that there is no drug data corresponding to the image data, the classification control unit (62) determines the classification cup (141) that does not contain the drug in the temporary determination area (Ar12) as the classification location. Then, the classification control unit (62) combines the characteristics of the drug related to the estimated drug with the determined classification location and stores them in the memory unit (80).

[0104] The classification control unit (62) determines the classification position in the temporary judgment area (Ar12) based on at least one of the characteristics of the drug (presumed drug) included in the image. For example, the classification control unit (62) determines the classification position in the temporary judgment area (Ar12) based on at least one of the color, shape, or information assigned to the drug in the image. Specifically, the classification control unit (62) determines the classification position such that the classification positions of presumed drugs are identical, where at least one of the color, shape, or information assigned to the drug is considered to match. Information assigned to the drug refers, for example, to at least a part of the identification information assigned to the drug. If at least a part of the identification information roughly matches (if there is a similar part between the two identification information being compared), the drugs assigned to said identification information may be contained in the same classification cup (141). Meanwhile, the classification control unit (62) determines the classification cup (141) of the drug not contained in the temporary judgment area (Ar12) as the classification location for the estimated drug that is first classified in the temporary judgment area (Ar12) and the estimated drug that is a classification target having characteristics that do not match the characteristics of the estimated drug that has already been classified.

[0105] After that, the classification control unit (62) controls the return / classification unit (12) to return the drug to the classification cup (141) in the temporary judgment area (Ar12) determined as the classification location (see (iv) in FIG. 5). Specifically, the return / classification unit (12) classifies the estimated drug to each location (each classification cup (141)) in the temporary judgment area (Ar12) based on at least one of the color, shape, or information assigned to the drug included in the image.

[0106] Also, even if the classification control unit (62) receives drug data regarding the drug as a determination result, if the drug is stored in all of the classification cups (141) of the confirmed area (Ar11), the waiting tray (15) is determined as the classification location. In this case, if there is a gap in the classification cups (141) of the confirmed area (Ar11), the classification control unit (62) determines the classification location of the drug classified in the waiting tray (15) as the location where the classification cups (141) are placed. Also, if the drug is stored in all of the classification cups (141) of the temporary determination area (Ar12), the classification control unit (62) keeps the drug in the waiting tray (15) until there is a gap in the classification cups (141) of the temporary determination area (Ar12).

[0107] In addition, as described above, the size of the confirmed area (Ar11) can be arbitrarily set by the user. For example, as shown in FIG. 5, the user may set the size of the confirmed area (Ar11) to be as large as possible (in the "confirmed area effective utilization mode"). In this case, the possibility of accommodating all or most of the drugs identified by type among the drugs accommodated in the first receiving section (11) into the confirmed area (Ar11) can be increased. However, regarding the setting of the confirmed area (Ar11), it may be configured to allow the selection of the following two settings in the "confirmed area effective utilization mode."

[0108] (1) Setting of a confirmed area (Ar11) that allows a drug of a determined type to be received in a waiting tray (15). In this setting, the control unit (60a) receives the drug temporarily placed in the waiting tray (15) into the confirmed area (Ar11) when there is a vacancy in the confirmed area (Ar11).

[0109] (2) Setting of the largest possible definite area (Ar11) that minimizes classification by the waiting tray (15) of the identified drug.

[0110] (Alternative treatment for case (iii) in Fig. 5)

[0111] Unlike the processing in the above "determined area effective utilization mode," for the estimated drug, it is not necessary to temporarily place it in the waiting tray (15) and it may be returned directly to the temporary judgment area (Ar12). In short, after the determination processing for the drug received in the first receiving unit (11) is completed, the control unit (60a) may sequentially classify the drug into either the determined area (Ar11) or the temporary judgment area (Ar12) according to the determination result.

[0112] In this case, the control unit (60a) may perform a re-identification process if it is unable to identify the type of drug. This is because there is a possibility that the type of drug can be identified through the re-identification process. The re-identification process is performed, for example, a predetermined number of times. The predetermined number of times may be set to a number where there is a possibility that the type of drug can be identified through the re-identification process and the impact on increasing the processing time is minimal (e.g., 3 times). If the type of drug can be identified through the re-identification process, the control unit (60a) returns the drug to the confirmation area (Ar11). On the other hand, if the type of drug cannot be identified even after performing the determination process a predetermined number of times, the drug returns to the temporary determination area (Ar12).

[0113] Also, as a result of sequential classification, if the condition becomes such that it cannot be classified into the confirmed area (Ar11) (if there are no empty classification cups (141) in the confirmed area (Ar11)), the drug to be classified is received in the waiting tray (15). Also, if the condition becomes such that it cannot be classified into the temporary judgment area (Ar12) (if there are no empty classification cups (141) in the temporary judgment area (Ar12)), the presumed drug to be classified is received in the waiting tray (15). In short, if there is no position to classify in either the confirmed area (Ar11) or the temporary judgment area (Ar12), the drug to be classified or the presumed drug is not received in the other area but is returned to the waiting tray (15) and accumulated.

[0114] Additionally, the drug classification device (1) may be set to either the "determined area effective utilization mode" or the "determined area non-effective utilization mode." When set to the "determined area effective utilization mode," as described above, the estimated drug is temporarily placed on the waiting tray (15) and then classified into the determined area (Ar11) or the temporary judgment area (Ar12). On the other hand, when set to the "determined area non-effective utilization mode," as described above, the estimated drug is not temporarily placed on the waiting tray (15) and is directly classified into the temporary judgment area (Ar12).

[0115] (In the case of (vi) in Fig. 5)

[0116] When the classification control unit (62) receives a determination result indicating that the drug is not a drug subject to classification, the drug after determination is a drug registered as a drug to be discarded in the drug database, or the substance placed in the receiving area (Ar1) after determination is a foreign substance. Therefore, the classification control unit (62) controls the return / classification unit (12) to return the drug or foreign substance to the recovery tray (16).

[0117] In this way, the classification control unit (62) stores all items received in the first receiving unit (11) in any of the second receiving unit (14), the waiting tray (15), and the recovery tray (16), regardless of the result of determining the type of drug. Therefore, even if the type of drug cannot be identified as one, or if foreign substances are mixed in the first receiving unit (11), the classification process can be continued without stopping for that reason.

[0118] Additionally, if the drug being identified is a drug registered in the drug database, it can be classified into a confirmed area (Ar11), and if it is a drug not registered, it can be classified into a temporary determination area (Ar12). Therefore, the drug can be classified regardless of whether the drug data is registered in the memory unit (80). Also, since the classification area can be changed depending on whether the drug data is registered in the memory unit (80), the convenience of the drug registration process described later can be improved.

[0119] (Other components)

[0120] Additionally, the classification control unit (62) captures the drug storage unit (133a) with the second camera (121) to take out the drug that has completed the identification process from the drug storage unit (133a) placed in the receiving area (Ar1), and compresses the location of the drug. Also, when the drug stored in the classification cup (141) is being transported to the distribution mechanism (6), the classification control unit (62) captures the classification cup (141) with the second camera (121) to take out the drug from the classification cup (141), and compresses the drug to be transported.

[0121] Also, in the confirmed area (Ar11), drug data regarding the drug stored in the sorting cup (141) by the sorting control unit (62) is stored in the RFID tag formed on the sorting cup (141) by the second RFID reader / writer unit (18).

[0122] The second RFID reader / writer unit (18), like the first RFID reader / writer unit (5), performs recording of drug data, etc. for an RFID tag, or reading of drug data, etc. stored in an RFID tag. The sorting control unit (62) records data regarding the drug to the RFID control unit (68) whenever the drug is stored in the sorting cup (141).

[0123] The second RFID reader / writer unit (18) is formed on the lower side of the second receiving portion (14). Specifically, it is formed to face the bottom of each sorting cup (141) when reading or writing data regarding the drug stored in the RFID tag of each sorting cup (141).

[0124] (Example of display image)

[0125] During drug classification processing or while the operation of drug classification processing is stopped, the display control unit (67) can display a classification image (Im1) as shown in FIG. 6 on the display unit (32).

[0126] Each of the multiple classification positions where the drug is classified, the classification cup (141) placed at the said classification position, and the drug data (or data including at least a part of the target features) regarding the drug contained in the classification cup (141) are combined and stored in the memory unit (80). In addition, the number of drugs contained in the classification cup (141) and image data of said drugs are also combined and stored in the memory unit (80).

[0127] For this reason, the display control unit (67) can display a classification image (Im1) that reflects a plurality of classification positions in the second receiving unit (14) and a classification situation (e.g., the number of received drugs) at each of the classification positions.

[0128] Additionally, the display control unit (67) displays audit results, etc., at the location where the drug is classified in the classification image (Im1). As an audit result, the display control unit (67) displays "Visual not corresponding," indicating that the visual audit is not corresponding, or "Visual correspondence completed," indicating that the audit correspondence is completed. Additionally, the display control unit (67) displays "Temporary classification," indicating that the drug is classified in the temporary judgment area (Ar12) because the drug data is not registered. Through these displays, the user can identify the classification cup (141) where the drug that is not corresponding to the audit is classified, or the classification cup (141) where the drug that requires registration in the drug database is classified.

[0129] The display control unit (67) receives user input regarding the classification location of the confirmed area (Ar11) shown in the classification image (Im1), and displays the inspection image (Im2) (see FIG. 7) of the drug corresponding to the classification location on the display unit (32). Accordingly, the inspection image (Im2) of the drug that the user wishes to perform a visual inspection of can be displayed.

[0130] Additionally, the display control unit (67) receives user input regarding the classification position of the temporary judgment area (Ar12) shown in the classification image (Im1), and displays the confirmation image (Im3) of the drug corresponding to the classification position on the display unit (32). Accordingly, the confirmation image (Im3) of the drug that the user wishes to register in the drug database (see FIG. 8) can be displayed.

[0131] [Drug Registration Processing]

[0132] Next, the drug registration process for registering a drug classified as a temporary judgment area (Ar12) into a drug database will be explained using FIGS. 1, FIGS. 6, FIGS. 8 to FIGS. 10. FIGS. 9 (a) and (b) are drawings showing examples of display of a search image (search screen) (Im4), and (c) is a drawing showing an example of an image captured by the first camera (131). FIGS. 10 (a) is a drawing showing an example of a registration image (registration screen) (Im5), and (b) is a drawing for explaining an example of image adjustment processing.

[0133] As described above, the display control unit (67) receives user input regarding the classification position of the temporary judgment area (Ar12) shown in the classification image (Im1) shown in FIG. 6, and displays a confirmation image (Im3) as shown in FIG. 8. As shown in FIG. 8, the confirmation image (Im3) includes at least an image display area (Ar31) and a "master registration" button.

[0134] The image display area (Ar31) is an area in which the number of drugs stored in the classification cup (141) is displayed, such that the image data of the drugs stored in the classification cup (141), which is combined with the classification position and stored in the memory unit (80), is represented by an image (an image captured by the first camera (131)). In this example, the image display area (Ar31) displays images of two drugs stored in the classification cup (141) placed at the position of F-7. The “Master Registration” button receives user input to initiate the registration of the selected drug in the drug database.

[0135] When one image data is selected and user input for the “Master Registration” button is received, the control unit (60a) performs the registration processing of the drug corresponding to the image data. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 1, the control unit (60a) is equipped with a registration unit (70). The registration unit (70) performs the overall processing of registering drug data related to the drug classified as a temporary judgment area (Ar12) into the drug database. In short, for a drug for which the judgment unit (64) determines that there is no drug data corresponding to the image data, the registration unit (70) registers the drug data of the drug related to the image data, which is specified by the user, by combining it with the image data.

[0136] Specifically, the register (70) controls the display control unit (67) to display the search image (Im4) shown in FIG. 9 (a) on the display unit (32). The search image (Im4) is an image showing the search results for the medicine stored in the sorting cup (141).

[0137] The search image (Im4) includes at least a character input area (Ar41), an image display area (Ar42), a search result list area (Ar43), and a “Select” button, as shown in FIG. 9 (a). The character input area (Ar41) is an area where characters can be entered to search for a drug displayed in the image display area (Ar42). The image display area (Ar42) is an area that displays an image captured by the first camera (131) (an image identical to the image selected in FIG. 8). The search result list area (Ar43) is an area that displays search results when user input is received for the “Search” button. The “Select” button determines the selection of one drug data among the drug data displayed in the search result list area (Ar43).

[0138] Here, the first camera (131) captures the drug placed on the drug placement stand (133a) placed in the placement area (Ar2). Therefore, the direction of the information (e.g., imprint information or printing information) assigned to the drug in the image data stored in the memory unit (80) varies depending on the drug. In the image display area (Ar42), the image (image captured by the first camera (131)) represented by the image data stored in the memory unit (80) is displayed as is. Therefore, in the image display area (Ar42), an image with the imprint information in a downward direction is displayed, for example, as shown in FIG. 9 (a). Also, for example, if the imprint information is captured in a horizontal direction, an image with the imprint information in a horizontal direction is displayed in the image display area (Ar42), as shown in FIG. 9 (c). In addition, the same applies to the inspection image (Im2) shown in Fig. 7 and the confirmation image (Im3) shown in Fig. 8.

[0139] When the display control unit (67) displays the search image (Im4) shown in (a) of FIG. 9, the user recognizes the imprint information by checking the image displayed in the image display area (Ar42). The user inputs at least a portion of the recognized imprint information into the character input area (Ar41).

[0140] When the register (70) receives user input for the “Search” button after at least part of the imprint information has been entered into the character input area (Ar41), it performs a search based on the characters entered into the character input area (Ar41) in the comprehensive drug database.

[0141] A comprehensive drug database is a database that manages drug data regarding multiple types of drugs. The comprehensive drug database is a database managed by a data management device (500) (see FIG. 13) that can communicate with a drug classification device (1) and manages multiple types of drugs collectively. The data management device (500) is, for example, a device used at the manufacturer of the drug classification device (1). The comprehensive drug database includes drug data regarding all drugs that can be handled by the drug classification device (1) used in various places (hospitals, wards, pharmacies, etc.) and by devices other than the drug classification device (1) (e.g., distributors).

[0142] Meanwhile, the drug database is a database managed by the drug classification device (1), or by the hospital, ward, or pharmacy where the drug classification device (1) is used. As described above, the drug database is managed, for example, in the memory unit (80). Since the number of drug data managed in the comprehensive drug database is vast, it is not realistic to include all of them in the drug database. Therefore, the drug database extracts and manages drug data that is expected to be used in each drug classification device (1) or each hospital, ward, or pharmacy from among the drug data included in the comprehensive drug database. In short, even if drug data does not exist in the drug database, it exists in the comprehensive drug database. Therefore, the registration unit (70) performs a search in the comprehensive drug database.

[0143] In addition, the drug comprehensive database and the drug data registered in the drug database include image data of the drug in which identification information assigned to the drug (e.g., imprint information or factor information) is adjusted to a prescribed orientation and size. Such orientation and size are set, for example, for each type or size of the drug.

[0144] Let us assume that the user inputs "SW" among the information included in the image into the character input area (Ar41) and then presses the "Search" button. In this case, the register (70) displays the search results for the character "SW" in the drug comprehensive database in the search result list area (Ar43), as shown in FIG. 9 (b). The user selects drug data that matches the information "SW344" included in the image from the search result list area (Ar43).

[0145] When the registration unit (70) receives user input for the “Select” button while one drug data displayed in the search result list area (Ar43) is selected, it controls the display control unit (67) to display the registration image (Im5) on the display unit (32). At this time, the registration unit (70) controls the discrimination unit (64) (feature extraction unit (64a)) to extract imprint information from the image captured by the first camera (the same image as the image selected in FIG. 8). If the image contains a secant line, the registration unit (70) also extracts the secant line. Known techniques may be employed for the extraction of imprint information.

[0146] As shown in FIG. 10, the registered image (Im5) includes at least an image display area (Ar51), a drug information display area (Ar52), an image adjustment area (Ar53), an operation display area (Ar54), and a "Confirm" button.

[0147] The image display area (Ar51) is an area that displays an image captured by the first camera (131). An image identical to the image selected in FIG. 8 is displayed in the image display area (Ar51). However, it is acceptable for an image of a single drug captured from multiple directions to be displayed in the image display area (Ar51). In FIG. 10, four images of a single drug captured from different directions are displayed.

[0148] The drug information display area (Ar52) is an area that displays drug data (e.g., image data, drug name, and imprint information (e.g., identification code)) regarding a drug extracted from the comprehensive drug database. The image adjustment area (Ar53) is an area for adjusting the orientation or size of an image. The control panel display area (Ar54) is an area that displays a control panel for adjusting the orientation or size of the image displayed in the image adjustment area (Ar53). The “Confirm” button confirms the registration for the drug database.

[0149] When one of the images displayed in the image display area (Ar51) is selected, the register (70) displays the corresponding image in the image adjustment area (Ar53). Additionally, the register (70) displays the engraving information extracted when user input is received for the "Select" button of the search image (Im4) in the image adjustment area (Ar53). In short, the register (70) displays the extracted engraving information and the selected image superimposed on the image adjustment area (Ar53).

[0150] The register (70) displays the extracted imprint information in the image adjustment area (Ar53). The register (70) displays the extracted imprint information in the image adjustment area (Ar53) while the direction and size of the extracted imprint information are aligned with the direction and size specified in the drug database. Therefore, by changing the direction and size of the selected image to match the imprint information displayed in the image adjustment area (Ar53), image data containing imprint information with the direction and size specified in the drug database can be registered in the drug database.

[0151] In the image adjustment area (Ar53), with the extracted engraving information and the selected image superimposed, the user operates the control unit displayed in the control unit display area (Ar54). Accordingly, the user rotates the selected image, moves it up and down or left and right, or changes the size of the image. The registration unit (70) sequentially displays images reflecting user input to the control unit in the image adjustment area (Ar53). Accordingly, while checking the image adjustment area (Ar53), the user can change the direction, size, and position of the selected image so that they roughly match the direction and size of the extracted engraving information.

[0152] For example, in the case of FIG. 10 (a), as shown in FIG. 10 (b), the register (70) displays the extracted imprint information in the image adjustment area (Ar53) and then displays the selected image in the image adjustment area (Ar53). In this example, the imprint information in the image captured by the first camera (131) is facing downward. In short, in the image adjustment area (Ar53), the extracted imprint information and the imprint information in the selected image are facing in opposite directions. Also, in FIG. 10 (b), to make it clearer to distinguish, each character of the extracted imprint information “SW344” is displayed in bold, and each character of the imprint information “SW344” in the selected image is displayed in dotted lines.

[0153] In this state, the user operates the control unit displayed in the control unit display area (Ar54) to change the direction, size, and position of the selected image, thereby making the engraving information included in the selected image roughly match the direction and size of the extracted engraving information. When the direction and size of the engraving information are roughly matched, the user presses the “Confirm” button.

[0154] When the registration unit (70) receives user input for the “Confirm” button, it combines image data (image data after adjustment) representing the image adjusted in the image adjustment area (Ar53) with the drug data selected from the search results and registers it in the drug database.

[0155] In this way, in the present embodiment, the discrimination unit (64) (feature extraction unit (64a)) extracts imprint information (identification information) appearing on the drug included in the image captured by the first camera (131). The display control unit (67) displays the image and imprint information on the display unit (32). Specifically, the image and imprint information are displayed on the image adjustment area (Ar53) of the registered image (Im5). Then, the registration unit (70) registers image data representing the image when the direction of the imprint information appearing on the drug included in the image is aligned with a predetermined direction (a predetermined direction defined in the drug database) when the extracted imprint information is displayed on the display unit (32).

[0156] Accordingly, image data containing imprint information of the direction and size specified in the drug database can be registered in the drug database. Therefore, the accuracy of comparison using the drug database by the identification unit (64) can be improved and speed can be achieved.

[0157] In addition, as shown in FIG. 10 (a), when multiple images are displayed in the image display area (Ar51), the registration unit (70) may perform the drug registration processing described above for each image. In this case, multiple image data for one drug is registered in the drug database. Also, the registration unit (70) may register the adjusted image data in the drug database only for one image selected from the multiple images (for example, an image that the user judges to have clearly imprinted information).

[0158] [Drug Registration Processing for Capsules]

[0159] Next, the drug registration process when the drug is a capsule will be explained using FIGS. 11 and 12. FIGS. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a registration image (Im6) when registering a capsule. FIGS. 12 is a diagram showing an example of a registration image (Im7) when registering another capsule.

[0160] When the medicine is a capsule, the registration unit (70) controls the display control unit (67) to display multiple images captured from multiple locations around the capsule on the display unit (32).

[0161] In the case of capsules, unlike tablets, factor information (e.g., identification code) cannot be displayed on either the surface or the back. Therefore, the registration unit (70) can display multiple images, allowing the user to select an image among the multiple images that clearly contains factor information as the image to be registered. Thus, even in the case of capsules, image data suitable for registration in the drug database can be registered.

[0162] As shown in FIG. 11, the registered image (Im6) includes at least an image display area (Ar61), a drug information display area (Ar62), an image adjustment area (Ar63), an operation area display area (Ar64), and a "Confirm" button. Each of the areas and the "Confirm" button has the same function as the image display area (Ar51), drug information display area (Ar52), image adjustment area (Ar53), operation area display area (Ar54), and "Confirm" button shown in FIG. 10 (a). However, in the image display area (Ar61), a plurality of images (7 images in this example) captured at a plurality of locations around the capsule are displayed.

[0163] In the example of FIG. 11, factor information is assigned to each of the two regions of the capsule. The user selects an image in which factor information is displayed near the center of each of the two regions among the seven images. In short, for each region, the user selects an image containing factor information that is as similar as possible to the factor information included in the image data displayed in the drug information display area (Ar62). In this example, the user selects the third image and the sixth image. After that, the same drug registration process as described using FIG. 10 is performed.

[0164] In short, the user changes the direction, size, and position of the image so that the print information of the image selected in the image display area (Ar61) in the image adjustment area (Ar63) roughly matches the print information that is extracted from the captured image of the drug and also displayed facing a predetermined direction. After that, when the print information of the selected image and the extracted print information roughly match, the user presses the “Confirm” button. When the registration unit (70) receives user input for the “Confirm” button, it combines the adjusted image data with the drug data selected as a search result and registers it in the drug database. In this example, drug registration processing is performed for each of the 3rd image and the 6th image.

[0165] Additionally, in the image data registered in the drug database, as shown in the drug information display area (Ar62), the printed information of one area is upward and the printed information of the other area is downward. Therefore, the register (70) displays the printing information of one area upward and the printing information of the other area downward in the image adjustment area (Ar63). Accordingly, the user changes the direction, size, and position of each image so that the printed information of the third image roughly matches the printed information of the upward, and the printed information of the sixth image roughly matches the printed information of the downward.

[0166] In addition, factor information may be included in the shorter direction of the capsule. In this case as well as in FIG. 11, the register (70) displays images captured from multiple directions on the display unit (32).

[0167] The registered image (Im6) includes at least an image display area (Ar71), a drug information display area (Ar72), an image adjustment area (Ar73), an operation area display area (Ar74), and a "Confirm" button, as shown in FIG. 12. Each of the areas and the "Confirm" button has the same function as the image display area (Ar61), drug information display area (Ar62), image adjustment area (Ar63), operation area display area (Ar64), and "Confirm" button shown in FIG. 11.

[0168] The user selects an image containing more factor information in each of the two divided regions among the seven images included in the image display area (Ar71). In short, for each region, the user selects an image containing factor information that is as similar as possible to the factor information included in the image data displayed in the drug information display area (Ar72).

[0169] In this example, the user selects the 3rd, 4th, and 5th images for one area, and the 4th and 5th images for the other area. Then, as described using FIG. 11, adjustments are performed on each of the 3rd, 4th, and 5th images for one area, and adjustments are performed on each of the 4th and 5th images for the other area. The user presses the “Confirm” button on the adjusted image data that has the highest degree of agreement between the extracted factor information and the factor information included in the selected image. Accordingly, the registration unit (70) combines the adjusted image data with the highest degree of agreement with the drug data selected as a search result and registers it in the drug database.

[0170] In this way, even if the drug is a capsule, image data including factor information on direction and size specified in the drug database can be registered in the drug database.

[0171] In addition, the user does not have to select all images containing more factor information. For example, for each area, the user may select only one image containing factor information that is as similar as possible to the factor information contained in the image data displayed in the drug information display area (Ar72).

[0172] Also, in the image data registered in the drug database, as shown in the drug information display area (Ar72), the factor information of one area is “ABCD(E)” and the print information of the other area is “5 mg” together. Therefore, when the register (70) displays the factor information of both areas, it displays the factor information of each left-sided area in the image adjustment area (Ar73).

[0173] [Data Management System]

[0174] Next, the data management system will be explained using FIG. 13. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a data management system.

[0175] The data management system includes a plurality of drug classification devices (1) and a data management device (500) capable of communicating with each of the drug classification devices (1). The drug classification devices (1) and the data management device (500) transmit and receive data through an internet line or a dedicated VPN (Virtual Private Network) line. Additionally, the drug classification device (1) included in the data management system may be just one.

[0176] The drug classification device (1) is equipped with a transmission / reception unit (101) that performs data transmission and reception with a data management device (500), in addition to the control unit (60a) and memory unit (80) shown in FIG. 1. The transmission / reception unit (101) transmits, for example, image data of a drug classified in a temporary judgment area (Ar12) to the data management device (500).

[0177] The data management device (500) is equipped with a transceiver (501), a control unit (502), a touch panel (503), and a memory unit (504). The transceiver (501) performs data transmission and reception with the drug classification device (1). The transceiver (501) receives image data from, for example, the transceiver (101). The control unit (502) controls the data management device (500) comprehensively and is mainly equipped with a registration unit (521). The registration unit (521) has the same function as the registration unit (70) shown in FIG. 1. The touch panel (503) is equipped with an operation unit (531) and a display unit (532). The touch panel (503), control unit (531), and display unit (532) each have the same function as the touch panel (3), control unit (31), and display unit (32) shown in FIG. 1. The memory unit (504) stores a comprehensive drug database and a drug database. The drug database may be exclusive to each drug classification device (1) or common to each drug classification device (1).

[0178] For example, in the data management device (500), the transmitting and receiving unit (501) receives image data of a drug classified into a temporary judgment area (Ar12) in each drug classification device (1) from each drug classification device (1). Then, for each image data, the drug registration process described above is performed. The registration unit (521) combines the image data after adjustment with drug data specific to the user and registers it in the drug database.

[0179] The control unit (502) controls the transmission / reception unit (501) to transmit the drug database in which the adjusted image data is registered to each drug classification device (1). Additionally, the control unit (502) may transmit only the data containing the adjusted image data and the drug data combined with the image data to each drug classification device (1). Additionally, the control unit (502) may transmit the drug database only to the drug classification device (1) that has transmitted the image data.

[0180] In this way, the data management device (500) is equipped with a transmitting / receiving unit (501) that receives image data of a drug for which it is determined that there is no drug data corresponding to the image data in the drug classification device (1), and a registration unit (521) that registers drug data of a drug related to the image data specified by a user by combining it with the image data. Accordingly, even if the drug classification device (1) does not have a registration unit (70) (even if drug registration processing is not performed in the drug classification device (1)), image data of an estimated drug can be registered in the drug database.

[0181] In addition, in this data management system, the data management device (500) manages the drug database used in each drug classification device (1). Therefore, it is not necessary to manage the drug database in the memory unit (80) of each drug classification device (1).

[0182] Additionally, the transmission and reception of data between the drug classification device (1) and the data management device (500) does not need to be carried out using the line described above. For example, the transmission and reception of data with the data management device (500) may be carried out using a communication device different from the drug classification device (1) (e.g., PC (Personal Computer)). Also, it may be carried out to the other party by sending a storage medium (e.g., HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or DVD (Digital Versatile Disc)) containing data to be transmitted to the other party. When using a communication device or a storage medium, the drug classification device (1) does not need to be equipped with a transmission and reception unit (101). Also, the data management device (500) does not need to be equipped with a transmission and reception unit (501).

[0183] In addition, when a comprehensive drug database is managed in a hospital, ward, or pharmacy, the data management device (500) may transmit the comprehensive drug database to a data management device installed in the hospital, ward, or pharmacy. In this case, the comprehensive drug database may be managed in the hospital, ward, or pharmacy. In addition, a storage medium containing the comprehensive drug database may be distributed in the hospital, ward, or pharmacy.

[0184] [Embodiment 2]

[0185] Other embodiments of the present invention are described below. Also, for convenience of explanation, the same reference numerals are used for members having the same function as those described in the above embodiments, and their descriptions are not repeated. The same applies to subsequent embodiments. FIG. 14 (a) is a plan view showing an example of a drug storage stand (133a) that has been moved to a placement area (Ar2), and (b) and (c) are plan views showing an example of a drug storage stand (133a) after adjusting the position of the drug.

[0186] The drug classification device (1) of this embodiment does not need to be equipped with a registration unit (70). In short, in the second receiving unit (14), it is not necessary to have two areas, a confirmed area (Ar11) and a temporary judgment area (Ar12). In this case, the control unit (60a) classifies drugs for which the type of drug can be determined and drugs for which it is estimated to be classified into a classification position (classification cup (141)) of the second receiving unit (14). In short, even for drugs for which it is estimated, if there is an empty space in the classification cup (141), they are not classified into the waiting tray (15) but are classified into the second receiving unit (14).

[0187] In short, the drug classification device (1) of the present embodiment may have at least the following configuration as its basic configuration. Also, the same applies to subsequent embodiments.

[0188] · A first receiving section (11) that accommodates multiple types of drugs in a mixed state.

[0189] · A second receiving section (14) that receives drugs classified by type.

[0190] · An imaging unit (13) for imaging the drug taken out of the first receiving part (11).

[0191] · A determination unit (64) that determines the type of drug based on an image captured by an imaging unit (13).

[0192] A transport / classification unit (12) that stores drugs in the second receiving unit (14) according to type based on the determination result by the determination unit (64).

[0193] As described in Embodiment 1, the pivoting mechanism (133b) shown in FIG. 3 (a) and (b) can vibrate the drug storage stand (133a). By vibrating the drug storage stand (133a) with the pivoting mechanism (133b), imprint information or factor information can be directed in a predetermined direction.

[0194] Here, as shown in FIG. 14 (a), when the drug storage stand (133a) moves by turning from the receiving area (Ar1) to the placement area (Ar2) by means of the turning mechanism (133b), the drug may move to the end of the drug storage stand (133a) due to the centrifugal force acting on the drug. In this case, if constant vibration is performed regardless of the size or shape of the drug, the drug may continuously collide with the edge of the drug storage stand (133a), and there is a possibility that the drug cannot be directed toward a predetermined direction. If it cannot be directed toward a predetermined direction, there is a possibility that the number of images may increase, or that only images from which it is difficult to extract imprint information or factor information can be captured.

[0195] In the drug classification device (1) of the present embodiment, the turning mechanism (133b) (vibrating mechanism) vibrates (vibrates) the drug storage stand (133a) placed in the placement area (Ar2) based on the size and shape of the drug placed in the drug storage stand (133a).

[0196] Specifically, the image control unit (63) specifies the length (size) and shape of the drug included in the image based on the image captured by the first camera (131). In addition, known techniques may be employed for this specification. Also, the memory unit (80) stores the length of the drug, the shape of the drug, the amount of vibration (magnitude of vibration) of the drug storage stand (133a), and the number of vibrations per unit time in combination. The amount of vibration and the number of vibrations are set, for example, by experiments.

[0197] In the case where the drug is a tablet, as shown in FIG. 14 (b), for example, from the state shown in FIG. 14 (a), the amount of vibration and the number of vibrations are set so that the drug is placed near the center of the inclined surface (133ab) when one inclined surface (133ab) is roughly horizontal. Also, in the case where the drug is a capsule, as shown in FIG. 14 (c), for example, from the state shown in FIG. 14 (a), the amount of vibration and the number of vibrations are set so that the drug is placed near the center of the bottom surface (133aa) when the bottom surface (133aa) is roughly horizontal. For example, the smaller the length (size) of the drug, the greater the amount of movement accompanying the vibration of the drug placement plate (133a), so the amount of vibration is set to be small.

[0198] The imaging control unit (63) vibrates the drug placement stand (133a) in the placement area (Ar2) with a vibration amount and number of vibrations coupled to the length or shape of a specific drug from the captured image. Accordingly, in the case of a tablet, as shown in FIG. 14 (b), and in the case of a capsule, as shown in FIG. 14 (c), the drug can be placed in a position where the first camera (131) can easily capture imprinting information or printing information. Therefore, an increase in the number of images can be prevented.

[0199] In addition, by vibrating the drug storage stand (133a) based on the size and shape of the drug, it is possible to prevent the drug from flying out of the drug storage stand (133a) due to the vibration of the drug storage stand (133a). In addition, it is possible to prevent the drug from continuously colliding with the edge portion of the drug storage stand (133a) due to the vibration of the drug storage stand (133a). Therefore, the possibility of damage to the drug due to collision can be reduced (the burden on the drug can be reduced).

[0200] [Embodiment 3]

[0201] In this embodiment, the speed of the discrimination process is explained. FIG. 15 is a drawing showing an example of an image captured by the second camera (121) of the first receiving part (11).

[0202] The drug classification device (1) of this embodiment, in addition to the basic configuration described in embodiment 2, has, like embodiment 1, an adsorption mechanism (extraction mechanism) for taking out a drug contained in a first receiving part (11) and a second camera (121) (second imaging part) for taking an image of the drug when the adsorption mechanism takes out the drug.

[0203] The return control unit (61) determines the drug to be adsorbed to the adsorption mechanism among the multiple types of drugs received in the first receiving unit (11), based on the analysis result of the imaging control unit (63) regarding the image captured by the second camera (121). The return control unit (61) may determine the drug to be adsorbed to the adsorption mechanism based on the size of the outline of the drug (object) included in the image detected by the imaging control unit (63). In addition, known techniques may be employed for outline detection. Also, the order in which the drugs are taken out is pre-set. For example, it is set to take out in order of the largest outline.

[0204] In this way, when the extraction order of the drugs is set based on the size of the drugs, the adsorption mechanism is highly likely to extract drugs of the same type in succession. For example, as shown in FIG. 15, the image captured by the second camera (121) contains drugs “A” to “E” of different types (sizes). The sizes are set as follows: drug “A” > drug “B” > drug “C” > drug “D” > drug “E”.

[0205] In the case where the sequence of extracting the drugs is set as above, in the example shown in FIG. 15, the adsorption mechanism first extracts drug "A" in succession. When the extraction of drug "A" is completed, drug "B" is then extracted in succession. After that, drug "C" is extracted in succession, drug "D" is extracted in succession, and finally drug "E" is extracted in succession. In short, the adsorption mechanism extracts each of drugs "A" through "E" in succession.

[0206] In this case, the discrimination unit (64) is likely to continuously perform discrimination processing of the same type of drug. Therefore, in the drug classification device (1) of this embodiment, the discrimination unit (64) determines whether the degree of agreement between the outline of the drug taken out by the adsorption mechanism this time and the outline of the drug taken out by the adsorption mechanism in the previous time is greater than or equal to a predetermined value in the image captured by the second camera (121). And, if the discrimination unit (64) determines that the degree of agreement is greater than or equal to a predetermined value, the drug data applied when determining the type of drug taken out in the previous time is applied to the determination of the type of drug taken out this time.

[0207] In addition, the predetermined value may be set to such an extent that, for example, by conducting an experiment, when the contours of drugs of the same type are compared, the drugs having these contours can be determined to be of the same type. Also, known techniques may be employed for calculating the degree of agreement. Also, the determination of the degree of agreement may be performed, for example, in a return control unit (61).

[0208] Specifically, the imaging control unit (63) detects the outline of the entire drug contained in the first receiving unit (11) by interpreting the image captured by the second camera (121). The return control unit (61) determines the drug to be taken out according to a preset drug extraction sequence. The return control unit (61) stores outline data representing the outline of the drug determined as the drug to be taken out in the memory unit (80).

[0209] The identification unit (64), similar to Embodiment 1, extracts the characteristics of the extracted drug from an image captured by the first camera (131) and identifies the type of the drug by comparing the characteristics with the drug database. At this time, the identification unit (64) combines the specific type of drug (drug data) with the contour data of the drug and stores it in the memory unit (80).

[0210] The return control unit (61) takes out the next drug according to a preset drug extraction order and simultaneously stores the contour data of the drug in the memory unit (80). The discrimination unit (64) calculates the degree of agreement of the contours of the drugs by comparing the contour data of the previously taken drug with the contour data of the drug taken out this time, and determines whether the degree of agreement is greater than or equal to a predetermined value. If the discrimination unit (64) determines that the degree of agreement is greater than or equal to a predetermined value, it determines the type of the drug by comparing the characteristics of the drug taken out this time with the drug data combined with the contour data of the previously taken drug.

[0211] The discrimination unit (64) repeats the above processing when it is possible to determine the type of the current drug using the drug data of the previously extracted drug. In short, the discrimination unit (64) compares the characteristics of the current drug with the drug data of the previously extracted drug stored in the memory unit (80) when the degree of agreement between the contour data of the drug extracted this time and the contour data of the previously extracted drug stored in the memory unit (80) is greater than or equal to a predetermined value.

[0212] As described above, when a drug of the same type is contained in the first receiving unit (11), the drug of the same type is continuously extracted. In this embodiment, when the degree of agreement is greater than or equal to a predetermined value, the drug of the same type as the previous one is extracted, and the type of the drug extracted this time is determined using the drug data of the drug extracted up to the previous time. Accordingly, for each drug of the same type, it is not necessary to compare the characteristics of the drug extracted from the image captured by the first camera (131) with the drug database, as in Embodiment 1. Therefore, it is possible to shorten the processing time required to determine the type of drug.

[0213] Additionally, if the determination unit (64) determines that the degree of agreement is less than a predetermined value, it determines that a drug of a different type from the previous drug has been extracted, and, as in Embodiment 1, determines the type of the drug using the drug database. Upon receiving this determination result, the return control unit (61) updates the outline data of the drug stored in the memory unit (80) with the outline data of the drug extracted this time. The determination unit (64) uses the updated outline data in subsequent processing. Additionally, the processing of updating the outline data may be performed by the return control unit (61).

[0214] Here, there are cases where drugs of different types but roughly the same size are contained in the first receiving section (11). In this case, the size of the drug taken out this time is roughly the same as the drug taken out in the previous time, but the type of the drug taken out this time is different from the type of drug taken out in the previous time. In this case, the discrimination section (64) determines that the degree of agreement is greater than or equal to a predetermined value, but even if a comparison is performed using the drug data of the drug taken out in the previous time, the type of the drug taken out this time cannot be determined.

[0215] When drugs of different types, which have roughly the same size, are taken out in succession, at each time, a determination is made as to whether the degree of agreement is greater than or equal to a predetermined value, and a comparison is performed using the drug data of the drugs taken out in the previous cycle. And, whenever the comparison fails, the determination unit (64), just like in Embodiment 1, determines the type of the drug by using the result of interpreting the image captured by the first camera (131) of the drug taken out this time and the drug database. Therefore, when drugs of different types, which have roughly the same size, are taken out sequentially, processing time is required.

[0216] Therefore, the identification unit (64) may stop applying the drug data when it has been used to identify the type of drug taken out in the previous step, if it has been unable to identify the type of drug taken out this time for more than a predetermined number of times. In this case, even if drugs of roughly the same size but different types are taken out sequentially, the increase in processing time can be suppressed. Also, the predetermined number of times may be set to a number that has little effect on increasing processing time (e.g., 3 times).

[0217] In addition, when the identification unit (64) stops applying the drug data applied when determining the type of drug taken out in the previous step, it determines the type of the drug by using the result of interpreting the image captured by the first camera (131) for the drug taken out this time and the drug database, just like in Embodiment 1.

[0218] As described above, the drug classification device (1) of the present embodiment has the following configuration.

[0219] In short, a drug classification device (1) related to one aspect of the present embodiment comprises: a first receiving section (11) for receiving multiple types of drugs in a mixed state; a second receiving section (14) for receiving drugs classified by type; an imaging unit (13) (imaging section) for capturing drugs; a determination section (64) for determining the type of drug based on an image captured by the imaging unit (13); a return / classification unit (12) (classification section) for storing drugs by type in the second receiving section (14) based on the determination result by the determination section (64); an adsorption mechanism (extraction mechanism) for taking out drugs received in the first receiving section (11); and a second camera (121) (second imaging section) for capturing the drug when the adsorption mechanism takes out the drug. (64) In the image captured by the second camera (121), if the degree of agreement between the outline of the drug that the adsorption mechanism has taken out this time and the outline of the drug that the adsorption mechanism has taken out previously is greater than a predetermined value, the drug data applied when determining the type of drug taken out previously is applied to determining the type of drug taken out this time.

[0220] In addition, regarding the drug classification device (1) related to one aspect of the present embodiment, in the above aspect, the discrimination unit (64) may stop applying the drug data when the drug data applied when determining the type of drug taken out in the previous instance is applied to determining the type of drug taken out this time, if the type of drug said cannot be determined for more than a predetermined number of times.

[0221] [Embodiment 4]

[0222] In this embodiment, an example of a distributor (700) is described. FIG. 16 is a drawing for explaining an example of a distributor (700), (a) is a front view of the distributor (700), (b) is a drawing showing an example of a cassette storage mechanism (705), and (c) and (d) are drawings for explaining examples of use of a supplementary table (703). FIG. 17 is a block diagram showing an example of a distributor (700).

[0223] The distributor (700) distributes the drug and, as shown in FIG. 16 (a) and FIG. 17, is equipped with a barcode reader (701), a variable cassette mounting part (702), a replenishment table (charging table) (703), and a touch panel (704). The distributor (700) is a return point for the drug classified by the drug classification device (1). Also, as shown in FIG. 16 (b) and FIG. 17, a cassette storage mechanism (705) is provided inside the distributor (700) with the opening / closing door (710) opened.

[0224] The barcode reader (701) reads information contained in a barcode assigned to a journal issued by the drug classification device (1) or distributor (700), or a barcode assigned to a drug box containing the drug. The barcode is a GS1 code assigned identification information, such as a drug name, for example.

[0225] The variable cassette mounting part (702) drives the mounted variable cassette (801). The variable cassette (801) sends the inserted drug to a distribution mechanism (not shown) built into the distributor (700).

[0226] As shown in FIG. 16 (c), the supplement table (703) is a stand capable of holding a fixed cassette (800). On the supplement table (703), one of the multiple fixed cassettes (800) stored in the cassette storage mechanism (705) is placed when the supplement table (703) is pulled out to the front side (the side of the fixed cassette (800)) of the distributor (700) in which the opening and closing door (710) is formed. An RFID reader is formed at the position on the supplement table (703) where the fixed cassette (800) is placed.

[0227] An RFID tag is formed on the bottom of the fixed cassette (800). The RFID tag stores drug data (e.g., identification information) of the drug contained in the fixed cassette (800). When the fixed cassette (800) is placed on the replenishment table (703), the RFID reader reads the drug data stored in the RFID tag.

[0228] The touch panel (704) receives various user inputs and displays various images.

[0229] The cassette storage mechanism (705) is provided with a plurality of fixed cassette mounting portions (705b) (cassette storage portions) capable of storing a fixed cassette (800) that holds a drug. The plurality of fixed cassette mounting portions (705b) (fixed cassettes (800) stored in each fixed cassette mounting portion (705b)) are formed to be rotatable about the Z-axis so that all of them can be positioned on the front side of the distributor (700). In short, the cassette storage mechanism (705) is provided with an axis portion (705a) that rotates about the Z-axis and a plurality of fixed cassette mounting portions (705b) formed approximately perpendicular to the axis portion (705a).

[0230] Also, as shown in FIG. 17, the distributor (700) is equipped with a control unit (706) that controls each part of the distributor (700), and a memory unit (707) that stores various data. In the memory unit (707), for example, the location of each fixed cassette mounting part (705b), the cassette number assigned to each fixed cassette (800), and identification information of the drug contained in each fixed cassette (800) are combined and stored.

[0231] When a drug is filled (or returned) to a fixed cassette (800), a barcode reader (701) reads identification information included in a barcode assigned to a journal or drug box. The control unit (706), by referring to the memory unit (707), specifies the cassette number associated with the read identification information and specifies the storage location of the fixed cassette (800) assigned the specific cassette number. The control unit (706) rotates the shaft unit (705a) so that the specific storage location becomes the front side of the distributor (700). Accordingly, the user can easily take out the fixed cassette (800) that serves as the place for filling the drug.

[0232] The user can take out a fixed cassette (800) that serves as a filling place for the drug, which is positioned on the front side of the distributor (700), and place it on the replenishment table (703) to receive the drug in the fixed cassette (800). At this time, by having an RFID reader read the identification information included in the RFID tag, the control unit (706) compares the identification information read by the RFID reader with the identification information read by the barcode reader (701). Accordingly, even before filling the drug, it is possible to determine whether the fixed cassette (800) is a suitable fixed cassette (800) as a filling place for the drug.

[0233] Here, when filling the dispenser (700) of the drug classified by the drug classification device (1) is not considered, the shaft (705a) can be rotated by reading the identification information with the barcode reader (701) as described above. In short, in this case, there is no need to rotate the shaft (705a) by reading the identification information by the RFID reader of the replenishment table (703).

[0234] However, when considering the filling of the dispenser (700) of the drug classified by the drug classification device (1), it is necessary to rotate the shaft (705a) by reading the identification information stored in the RFID tag of the classification cup (141). This is because it is necessary to use the identification information stored in the RFID tag of the classification cup (141) to place a fixed cassette (800) containing the same type of drug as the drug contained in the classification cup (141) on the front side of the dispenser (700) so that the fixed cassette (800) can be extracted.

[0235] When filling a drug classified by a drug classification device (1) into a fixed cassette (800) stored in a distributor (700), the user moves a classification cup (141) containing the drug to be filled into the fixed cassette (800) to the distributor (700). Then, the user places it on the replenishment table (703) of the distributor (700), as shown in (d) of FIG. 16. In short, the replenishment table (703) can also be described as a stand on which the classification cup (141) can be placed.

[0236] In the drug classification device (1), identification information (drug data) of the classified drug is stored in the RFID tag of the classification cup (141). Therefore, when the classification cup (141) is placed on the replenishment table (703), the RFID reader reads the identification information stored in the RFID tag of the classification cup (141).

[0237] In this case, the control unit (706), by referring to the memory unit (707), specifies the cassette number associated with the identification information read by the RFID reader from the RFID tag of the sorting cup (141), and also specifies the storage location of the fixed cassette (800) to which the specific cassette number is assigned. In short, the control unit (706), based on the reading of identification information by the RFID reader, rotates the shaft unit (705a) so that the specific storage location (fixed cassette mounting unit (705b)) is positioned on the front side of the distributor (700).

[0238] The user can receive the drug into the fixed cassette (800) by taking out the fixed cassette (800), which serves as a filling place for the drug contained in the sorting cup (141) placed on the front side of the distributor (700), and placing it on the replenishment table (703).

[0239] Additionally, the reading of identification information by the RFID reader of the supplement table (703) may be performed only when the sorting cup (141) is formed. For example, if a weighing device (not shown) is formed on the supplement table, the control unit (706) may determine that it is a sorting cup (141) when the weight is less than a predetermined value, and may rotate the shaft (705a) using the identification information read by the RFID reader.

[0240] <Example of Variation>

[0241] Additionally, the cassette storage mechanism (705) was a mechanism in which a plurality of fixed cassette mounting parts (705b) rotated around an axis part (705a), but it is not limited to this. For example, it may be a non-rotating type cassette storage mechanism in which a plurality of fixed cassette mounting parts do not rotate.

[0242] FIGS. 18 (a) and (b) are drawings showing an example of a non-rotating type cassette storage mechanism (705A). FIGS. 18 (a) is a front view of the cassette storage mechanism (705A), and (b) is a perspective view of the cassette storage mechanism (705A) with the cassette storage shelf (7051) pulled out. FIGS. 18 (c) and (d) are drawings showing an example of a non-rotating type cassette storage mechanism (705B). FIGS. 18 (c) is a front view of the cassette storage mechanism (705B), and (d) is a perspective view of the cassette storage mechanism (705B) with the cassette storage shelf (7055) pulled out.

[0243] As shown in FIG. 18 (a), the cassette storage mechanism (705A) is provided with a plurality of cassette storage shelves (7051) that can be pulled out on the front side of the distributor (700). As shown in FIG. 18 (b), a plurality of partition plates (7052) are formed in the cassette storage shelves (7051) so as to be parallel to the bottom (7053). A plurality of fixed cassette mounting parts are formed by the plurality of partition plates (7052) and the bottom (7053).

[0244] An alert section (7054a) is formed on the front of the cassette storage shelf (7051). Additionally, an alert section (7054b) is formed on each of the multiple fixed cassette mounting sections of the partition plate (7052) and the bottom section (7053). The alert sections (7054a and 7054b) are components for indicating the storage location of the fixed cassette (800) specified as the place for filling the medicine, and are realized, for example, by an LED (Light Emitting Diode). When the control unit (706) specifies the storage location of the fixed cassette (800) as the place for filling the medicine by referring to the memory unit (707) as described above, it lights up the alert section (7054a) of the cassette storage shelf (7051) where the storage location exists, and the alert section (7054b) of the storage location.

[0245] Additionally, as shown in FIG. 18 (c), the cassette storage mechanism (705B) is equipped with a plurality of cassette storage shelves (7055) that can be pulled out on the front side of the distributor (700). As shown in FIG. 18 (d), a partition plate (7057) is formed on the cassette storage shelf (7055) to divide the bottom part (7056) into two in the inner length direction (pulling direction). On the bottom part (7056), a plurality of fixed cassette mounting parts are formed on both sides with the partition plate (7057) in between, which can also accommodate fixed cassettes (800) in the inner length direction.

[0246] In the front portion of the cassette storage shelf (7055), an alert unit (7058a) having the same function as the alert unit (7054a) is formed. Also, in each of the plurality of fixed cassette mounting portions of the bottom portion (7056), an alert unit (7058b) having the same function as the alert unit (7054b) is formed. When the control unit (706) specifies the storage location of the fixed cassette (800) as a place to fill the medicine by referring to the memory unit (707) as described above, it lights up the alert unit (7058a) of the cassette storage shelf (7055) where the storage location is located, and the alert unit (7058b) of the storage location.

[0247] In addition, the non-rotating type cassette storage mechanism is not limited to the configuration shown in FIG. 18. For example, there may be only one cassette storage shelf. Also, in the form of FIG. 18 (a), it may be configured such that one cassette storage shelf is divided by a partition plate extending in the inner length direction and two rows of fixed cassettes (800) are placed in the inner length direction. Also, in the form of FIG. 18 (c), it may be configured such that one cassette storage shelf is not divided by a partition plate and one row of fixed cassettes (800) is placed in the inner length direction.

[0248] Additionally, the non-rotating cassette storage mechanism does not need to be configured such that multiple fixed cassette mounting parts are formed for a single cassette storage shelf. For example, it may be configured such that all of the multiple fixed cassette mounting parts are positioned to face the front side of the distributor (700) and can also be pulled out to the front side. In this case, an alert part is formed on each of the multiple fixed cassette mounting parts.

[0249] As described above, in the non-rotating cassette storage mechanism related to the present modification example, by providing a notification unit, it becomes possible for the user to take out the desired fixed cassette (800).

[0250] Additionally, the notification unit may be a touch panel (704). In this case, for example, an image indicating each storage location is displayed on the touch panel (704), and when the control unit (706) specifies the storage location of the fixed cassette (800) as the filling location for the medicine, the storage location is highlighted. Also, in the case where a plurality of fixed cassette mounting parts are formed on a single cassette storage shelf as shown in FIG. 18, in addition to the storage location, the cassette storage shelf where the storage location is located is also highlighted.

[0251] [Embodiment 5]

[0252] The drug classification device (1) may display a user-configured image (user-configured screen) (Im8) as shown in FIG. 19. FIG. 19 is a drawing showing an example of a user-configured image (Im8).

[0253] The user-configured image (Im8) has a classification condition setting area (Ar81, Ar82 and Ar83) capable of setting classification conditions for disposing of the drug received in the first receiving portion (11) without returning it to the distributor (700) or drug shelf, as shown in FIG. 19.

[0254] The classification condition setting area (Ar81) is an area capable of receiving input of the number of days elapsed since the final distribution date sent by the distributor (700). Information indicating the final distribution date of each drug can be obtained from the distributor (700). The control unit (60a) does not perform a determination process for drugs for which the drug classification date has elapsed more than the input date from the final distribution date indicated by the acquired information, and returns them to the recovery tray (16).

[0255] The drug returned to the fixed cassette (800) of the distributor (700) is placed on top of the drug contained in the fixed cassette (800) at the time of return. If a drug with an older manufacturing date than the drug contained in the fixed cassette (800) is returned, the drug is contained on the upper side of the fixed cassette (800). Generally, since the drug is discharged from the lower side of the fixed cassette (800), if a drug with an older manufacturing date is returned, the drug is not easily discharged. Therefore, it is not desirable for the operation or safety of the drug to be contained on the upper side. The same applies when returning a drug with an older manufacturing date to a drug container on a drug shelf, or when distributing it to a distribution area and returning it to a drug shelf.

[0256] In this embodiment, since the number of elapsed days can be set as a classification condition in the classification condition setting area (Ar81), drugs with an old manufacturing date can be returned to the recovery tray (16). Therefore, the drugs can be disposed of, and thus the use of the drugs can be avoided.

[0257] Additionally, the classification condition setting area (Ar82) is an area capable of receiving input of the unit price of the drug as the classification condition. The unit price of each drug is, for example, combined with the drug data and stored in the memory unit (80). When the unit price of the drug is entered into the classification condition setting area (Ar82), the control unit (60a) does not perform a discrimination process for drugs with a unit price lower than or equal to the said unit price and returns them to the recovery tray (16).

[0258] Additionally, the classification condition setting area (Ar83) is an area where the user can input the name of the drug to be discarded as the classification condition. When the name of the drug is entered in the classification condition setting area (Ar83), the control unit (60a) does not perform a determination process for the drug and returns it to the recovery tray (16).

[0259] In this way, the drug corresponding to the information entered in the classification condition setting area (Ar82 and Ar83) can be returned to the recovery tray (16). In short, just as with the case where the classification condition setting area (Ar81) is used, the drug that the user wishes to dispose of can be returned to the recovery tray (16). Therefore, since the drug can be disposed of, the use of the drug can be avoided.

[0260] [Embodiment 6]

[0261] In this embodiment, using FIG. 1, a configuration for reducing the time of drug classification processing is described. The drug classification device (1) of this embodiment only needs to have the basic configuration described in Embodiment 2. In short, it is not necessary to have a registration unit (70) as in Embodiment 2, and it is not necessary to have two areas, a confirmed area (Ar11) and a temporary judgment area (Ar12), set in the second receiving unit (14).

[0262] As described in Embodiment 1 using Fig. 1, etc., the discrimination unit (64) determines the type of drug based on an image captured by the first camera (131). For example, the discrimination unit (64) extracts characteristics of the drug, such as size, shape, imprint, print, secant line, and representative color, by analyzing visible light images and ultraviolet light images, and compares the characteristics of the drug with the drug database. Specifically, the discrimination unit (64) compresses the drug data candidates in the drug database using at least one of the extracted drug characteristics, reads identification information, etc., appearing in the imprint or print, and further compresses the type of drug among the candidates using pattern matching, etc.

[0263] Here, an increase in the number of drug data registered in the drug database means an increase in the number of drug data compared with the characteristics of the extracted drug. Therefore, as the number of drug data increases, the time required to compare the characteristics of the extracted drug with the drug database increases, and furthermore, the processing time for drug classification processing increases.

[0264] In the drug classification device (1) of the present embodiment, in order to suppress the increase in processing time, the discrimination unit (64) has the following functions. In short, the discrimination unit (64) determines the type of drug by comparing the characteristics of the drug extracted from an image captured by the first camera (131) with drug data regarding drugs distributed by a distributor (700) within a predetermined period (e.g., within one month) among the drug data regarding multiple registered types of drugs. In short, the discrimination unit (64) uses drug data regarding drugs that have been distributed by a distributor (700) within a predetermined period as the target for comparison of drug characteristics extracted from the captured image.

[0265] In the distributor (700) (see FIG. 16) and the drug classification device (1), the time of distribution from the distribution mechanism (6) of the distributor (700) and the drug classification device (1), respectively, is managed by combining it with the drug data that is the target of distribution. When the drug classification device (1) and the distributor (700) are connected in a communicable manner, the drug classification device (1) can manage not only the time of distribution from the distribution mechanism (6) but also the time of distribution from the distributor (700). Furthermore, the management of the time of distribution from the distribution mechanism (6) of the distributor (700) and the drug classification device (1) may be carried out in a higher-level system that is connected in a communicable manner to the distributor (700) and the drug classification device (1). Additionally, the drug classification device (1) may specify the time of distribution from the distributor (700) or the distribution mechanism (6) based on the received prescription data (e.g., prescription information for one patient).

[0266] The discrimination unit (64) extracts drug data from the drug database whose distributed time is within a predetermined period and uses the extracted drug data as a comparison target with the characteristics of the drug extracted from the captured image. Accordingly, since it is not necessary to use all drug data registered in the drug database as a comparison target, it is possible to reduce the comparison time (processing time for discrimination of drug types).

[0267] The drugs classified by the drug classification device (1) are distributed to the distribution mechanism (6) or the distributor (700), or returned to the drug shelf. In short, the drugs after classification are used for prescription. Therefore, for old drugs (e.g., drugs distributed outside the specified period), since they are subject to disposal (not subject to distribution or return), the likelihood of classification by the drug classification device (1) being required is low. Therefore, even if drug data regarding drugs distributed within the specified period is used as a reference, the likelihood of being able to determine the type of drug received in the first receiving unit (11) is high.

[0268] In addition, if the drug data regarding the drug distributed within a specified period does not include the characteristics of the drug included in the captured image, the return / classification unit (12) may return the drug to the waiting tray (15). Also, in the case of Embodiment 1, the return / classification unit (12) may return the drug to the waiting tray (15) or to the temporary judgment area (Ar12) set in the second receiving unit (14). Also, the judgment unit (64) may use all drug data registered in the drug database (excluding drug data used as a comparison target) as comparison targets.

[0269] [Embodiment 7]

[0270] In this embodiment, a configuration for reducing the time of drug classification processing is described using FIG. 1. The drug classification device (1) of this embodiment may have the basic configuration described in Embodiment 2, just like Embodiment 6.

[0271] The drug classification device (1) of the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, is equipped with a standby tray (15) and a classification control unit (62) in addition to the basic configuration. The standby tray (15) is a tray (temporary storage unit) for temporarily storing drugs that could not be stored in the second storage unit (14), as described in Embodiment 1. The classification control unit (62) determines the classification position of the drugs based on the determination result by the determination unit (64), as described in Embodiment 1. Furthermore, the classification control unit (62) combines the determined classification position with the drug data used for comparison by the determination unit (64) and stores it in the memory unit (80).

[0272] In addition, in the drug classification device (1) of the present embodiment, the identification unit (64) performs the following processing when receiving a drug contained in the waiting tray (15) into the second receiving unit (14) (when reclassifying). In short, the identification unit (64) determines the type of the drug by comparing the image of the drug that is taken out of the waiting tray (15) and captured by the first camera (131) with the drug data combined in the waiting tray (15) as the classification position determined by the classification control unit (62).

[0273] In addition, the above processing for reclassification may be performed in a different discrimination unit (second discrimination unit) that is different from the discrimination unit (64). In this embodiment, the processing is described as being performed by the discrimination unit (64) (in other words, the discrimination unit (64) has the function of the second discrimination unit).

[0274] If the second receiving section (14) does not have a confirmed area (Ar11) and a temporary judgment area (Ar12) set up, the drugs identified by type are placed in the sorting cups (141) of the second receiving section (14) according to their type. When drugs are placed in all sorting cups (141), if a drug is identified as being of a different type from the drugs placed in the sorting cups (141), the drug is placed in the waiting tray (15). Also, if the second receiving section (14) has a confirmed area (Ar11) and a temporary judgment area (Ar12) set up, and drugs cannot be placed in the confirmed area (Ar11), then drugs that are subsequently subject to placement in the confirmed area (Ar11) may be placed in the waiting tray (15).

[0275] For the drugs contained in the waiting tray (15), reclassification is performed after an empty space is created in the sorting cup (141) of the second receiving section (14). In short, the drugs contained in the waiting tray (15) are once again captured by the first camera (131) and then placed in the empty sorting cup (141) based on the determination result by the determination section (64).

[0276] In this case, the identification unit (64) may extract the characteristics of the drug from the captured image and compare the characteristics of the drug with all drug data registered in the drug database. However, comparing with all drug data requires processing time equal to the number of registered drug data. Also, since the type of drug can be determined as a result of the comparison before being received in the waiting tray (15), it is not necessary to compare with all registered drug data in the same way after being taken out of the waiting tray (15).

[0277] Therefore, when the identification unit (64) performs reclassification of the drug contained in the waiting tray (15), it compares the image of the drug taken after being removed from the waiting tray (15) with the drug data in which the waiting tray (15) is registered as a classification location among all registered drug data. Specifically, the identification unit (64) extracts the characteristics of the drug from the image of the drug taken and compares the extracted characteristics of the drug with the drug data in which the waiting tray (15) is registered as a classification location.

[0278] In short, the discrimination unit (64) stores the classification position (waiting tray (15)) determined as the discrimination result (identification result) of the drug contained in the waiting tray (15), combined with the drug data used by the discrimination unit (64) for comparison of the drug. As a result, when a drug that has succeeded in identifying its type once is contained in the waiting tray (15), during the second type identification for reclassification, the discrimination unit (64) can identify the type of the drug by using only the drug data regarding the drug contained in the waiting tray (15) and whose type has been identified. Therefore, it is possible to shorten the time for discrimination processing and improve the identification rate of the drug.

[0279] [Embodiment 8]

[0280] In this embodiment, an example of processing on the distributor (700) side is described using FIGS. 16, FIGS. 17 and FIGS. 20 to 22.

[0281] The distributor (700) distributes and discharges the medicine supplied from the fixed cassette (800), the variable cassette (801), and the manual dispensing unit (709) by means of a dispensing mechanism (not shown) equipped by itself. The distributor (700) distributes the medicine into a predetermined distribution unit (e.g., time of administration unit) based on prescription data (e.g., prescription information for one patient unit), for example. Additionally, the distributor (700) may be equipped with a powder medicine supply unit that dispenses powder medicine.

[0282] When the distributor (700) fills a drug classified by the drug classification device (1) into a fixed cassette (800) stored in the distributor (700) as described in Embodiment 4, the user moves a classification cup (141) containing the drug to be filled into the fixed cassette (800) to the distributor (700). Then, the user places it on the replenishment table (703) of the distributor (700) as shown in (d) of FIG. 16. The RFID reader (cassette comparison reader) of the replenishment table (703) reads information regarding the drug contained in the classification cup (141) (e.g., identification information (e.g., YJ code) and the number of drugs) from the RFID tag of the classification cup (141). The control unit (706) rotates all fixed cassette mounting units (705b) uniformly so that a specific storage position (fixed cassette mounting unit (705b)) is positioned on the front side of the distributor (700) based on the reading of identification information by the RFID reader.

[0283] Additionally, in embodiment 4, the distributor (700) is provided with an axle portion (705a), and the control portion (706) rotates the axle portion (705a) so that the specific fixed cassette mounting portion (705b) is positioned on the front side, but is not limited to this. It is not necessary to provide an axle portion (705a) in the distributor (700) of this specification. In short, the distributor (700) only needs to be provided with a rotation mechanism that rotates all fixed cassette mounting portions (705b) uniformly in a circumferential direction so that the specific fixed cassette mounting portion (705b) is positioned on the front side.

[0284] In the distributor (700) of the present embodiment, upon reading identification information by an RFID reader, the drug contained in the sorting cup (141) may not only be filled into the fixed cassette (800), but also into the variable cassette (801) and the manual spraying unit (709) to be distributed.

[0285] Below, a fixed cassette (800), a variable cassette (801), and a manual spraying unit (709) will be described.

[0286] <Fixed Cassette>

[0287] The fixed cassette (800) is a cassette (drug cassette) intended to discharge a predetermined type of drug. The fixed cassette (800) can also be described as a dedicated cassette in which the discharged target is limited to a specific type of drug. In short, a specific type of drug is pre-acquired in the fixed cassette (800) (a predetermined drug is accommodated).

[0288] Here, "specific type" is not limited to types of drugs classified based on the name (ingredients), etc. of the drug, but refers to at least one of various indicators such as the size (weight) of the drug, the shape of the drug, the surface condition (texture) of the drug, and the hardness of the drug being the same. In short, the fixed cassette (800) is limited to discharging drugs in which at least one of the indicators such as the type, size, shape, surface condition, and hardness of the drug is the same. Also, the surface condition of the drug refers to a tactile sensation such as smooth or rough.

[0289] The fixed cassette (800) can dispense the contained drug in units of amount (e.g., one tablet). For example, the fixed cassette (800) has a drug receiving section in which the drug is received, and a drug dispensing section formed below the drug receiving section and which dispenses the drug contained in the drug receiving section individually.

[0290] <Variable Cassette>

[0291] FIG. 20(a) is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration of a variable cassette (801). The variable cassette (801) is a cassette (drug cassette) that dispenses a drug of the type indicated by the dispensing instruction. The variable cassette (801) can also be described as a general-purpose cassette in which the dispensing target is not limited to a specific type of drug. In short, the variable cassette (801) accommodates one type of drug among multiple types of drugs. Unlike the fixed cassette (800), the variable cassette (801) does not contain a specific type of drug determined in advance, but rather the drug contained in the variable cassette (801) can be appropriately changed, for example, according to prescription data. The variable cassette (801) can dispense any type of drug contained therein in unit quantities by changing the operating conditions. Also, the variable cassette (801) can be described as a cassette that can change the width of the drug passage path depending on the type of drug being received.

[0292] The variable cassette (801) can be detachably mounted to the variable cassette mounting part (702). The variable cassette mounting part (702) is a mounting unit (motor base) capable of mounting the variable cassette (801). The variable cassette mounting part (702) receives a drug discharge instruction from the control unit (706) to discharge a drug from the mounted variable cassette (801) and supplies driving force to the driving mechanism of the drug. In short, the control unit (706) controls the variable cassette (801) through the variable cassette mounting part (702).

[0293] When discharging the drug, the drug to be discharged is assigned to one of the variable cassettes (801) owned by the user. Then, if the variable cassette (801) is formed in the variable cassette mounting part (702), the lock of the variable cassette mounting part (702) is released, and the variable cassette (801) becomes detachable from the variable cassette mounting part (702). After receiving the drug assigned to the variable cassette (801), the user returns the variable cassette (801) to the variable cassette mounting part (702), thereby enabling the discharge of the drug from the variable cassette (801).

[0294] The variable cassette (801), as shown in FIG. 20 (a), mainly comprises a first rotating body (8011), a second rotating body (8012), a height regulating body (8013), and a width regulating body (8014). The first rotating body (8011) and the second rotating body (8012) are a drug conveying mechanism that conveys the injected drug to the discharge port (8015) by rotating. The height regulating body (8013) and the width regulating body (8014) are members that define a drug passage path (passage path width; conveying height (h1) and conveying width (w1)) on the second rotating body (8012) so that the drug can be conveyed to the discharge port (8015) in a line.

[0295] <Manual Spraying Unit>

[0296] FIG. 20(b) is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration of a manual spraying unit (709). The manual spraying unit (709) is a unit capable of supplying a spraying agent by a user. As shown in FIG. 20(b), the manual spraying unit (709) comprises a plurality of manual spraying receiving portions (709a) (masses) into which a spraying agent is supplied by a user in a distribution unit, and a manual spraying discharge portion (709b) that discharges the spraying agent supplied in each manual spraying receiving portion (709a) to each manual spraying receiving portion (709a).

[0297] A plurality of manual spray receiving sections (709a) are arranged in a matrix shape. A manual spray discharge section (709b) is formed, for example, on the bottom surface of each manual spray receiving section (709a), so that each manual spray receiving section (709a) can be opened and closed individually. The user receives the agent into each manual spray receiving section (709a) while checking an instruction sheet indicating which agent to receive into which manual spray receiving section (709a). Then, under the control of the control section (706), each manual spray receiving section (709a) is opened individually in time with the distribution mechanism, and the agent received in each manual spray receiving section (709a) is discharged.

[0298] Instructions are issued by the control unit (706). The control unit (706) specifies which unit (e.g., fixed cassette (800), variable cassette (801), manual spray unit (709)) to discharge the medicine contained in the sorting cup (141) or the medicine contained in the prescription data. When the control unit (706) specifies the manual spray unit (709) as the discharge location, it specifies the location of the manual spray receiving unit (709a) that receives the medicine for each sorting cup (141) or based on the prescription data. By this specification, the control unit (706) inputs the location of the manual spray receiving unit (709a) that receives the medicine into the instructions.

[0299] <Processing in the present embodiment>

[0300] Next, an example of processing for returning the drug contained in the sorting cup (141) to the drug shelf (not shown) will be described. FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing an example of distribution processing in a distributor (700).

[0301] First, the user places a sorting cup (141) on a replenishment table (703). An RFID reader on the replenishment table (703) reads identification information of the medicine contained in the sorting cup (141) from the RFID tag of the sorting cup (141) (S1).

[0302] Next, the control unit (706) determines whether the designated filling place for the medicine is a variable cassette (801) or a manual spraying unit (709) (S2).

[0303] Here, information regarding the drug being carried by the distributor (700) is stored in the drug classification device (1). Therefore, when the drug classification device (1) determines, based on the said information, that the drug contained in the classification cup (141) is not carried by the distributor (700), it designates a variable cassette (801) or a manual spraying unit (709) as the filling location for said drug. Then, it issues a journal containing filling location information (return location information) indicating the designated filling location. Whether to designate the variable cassette (801) or the manual spraying unit (709) may be determined, for example, for each type of drug.

[0304] Additionally, the drug classification device (1) also stores information about variable cassettes (801) available for use in the distributor (700). Therefore, the drug classification device (1) can specify the variable cassette (801) used to assign the drug contained in the classification cup (141). Additionally, if the user owns multiple distributors (700), the drug classification device (1) stores information about variable cassettes (801) available for use in each distributor (700).

[0305] The control unit (706) specifies the filling location of the medicine contained in the sorting cup (141) by referring to the filling location information of the journal read by, for example, the barcode reader (701). At this time, the control unit (706) determines the suitability of the journal being referenced by referring to the identification information read in S1.

[0306] The control unit (706), when the filling location of the designated drug is a variable cassette (801) (e.g. in S2), identifies the variable cassette (801) indicated in the filling location information read from the journal as a component for dispensing the drug contained in the sorting cup (141) (S3). Then, the control unit (706) makes the identified variable cassette (801) into a disassembled state.

[0307] Next, the control unit (706) notifies the user to fill a specific variable cassette (801) with the medicine. The user takes the medicine contained in the sorting cup (141) into the specific variable cassette (801) and then performs a user operation, for example, to start dispensing. Accordingly, the control unit (706) performs the dispensing process of the medicine (S4). In short, it becomes possible to dispense the medicine contained in the sorting cup (141) from the variable cassette (801) and, for example, to return it to the medicine shelf.

[0308] The control unit (706) specifies the manual spray unit (709) as a component for dispensing the agent contained in the sorting cup (141) when the designated agent filling location is the manual spray unit (709) (S2, no). In this case, the control unit (706) determines the location of the manual spray receiving unit (709a) that receives the agent and issues an instruction reflecting the result of the determination. The user checks the instruction, receives the agent contained in the sorting cup (141) into the manual spray receiving unit (709a), and then performs a user operation, for example, to start dispensing. Accordingly, the control unit (706) performs the dispensing process of the agent (S6). In short, it becomes possible to dispense the agent contained in the sorting cup (141) from the manual spray unit (709) and distribute it, for example, to return it to the agent shelf.

[0309] In this way, a variable cassette (801) or a manual spraying unit (709) is specified as a filling place for the drug contained in the sorting cup (141). Then, the distributor (700) distributes the drug discharged from the variable cassette (801) or the manual spraying unit (709) to return it to the drug shelf. In short, the drug contained in the sorting cup (141) is distributed on the premise that it is a drug that is not loaded in the distributor (700) (a non-loaded drug). Therefore, the user can fill the drug containing the sorting cup (141) into the drug shelf without being aware of whether it is loaded in the distributor (700).

[0310] When distributing to the distribution mechanism (6) of the drug classification device (1), it is necessary to adsorb the drugs contained in the classification cup (141) one by one using the adsorption mechanism and return them to the distribution mechanism (6). When using a variable cassette (801) or a manual spraying unit (709), the drugs contained in the classification cup (141) can be received into the variable cassette (801) or the manual spraying unit (709) at once, and can be sequentially discharged from the variable cassette (801) or the manual spraying unit (709). Therefore, compared to distribution using the distribution mechanism (6), the processing time can be shortened. In addition, it becomes possible to empty the classification cup (141) early and use it to classify drugs of a different type from the drugs contained therein.

[0311] Also, since the distribution mechanism (6) is an optional function of the drug classification device (1), it may not be formed in the drug classification device (1). Even in this case, the drug contained in the classification cup (141) can be distributed by the distributor (700).

[0312] Additionally, the agent contained in each of the multiple sorting cups (141) can be placed in each variable cassette (801) according to the number of available variable cassettes (801). Also, the agent contained in each of the multiple sorting cups (141) can be placed in each manual spraying receiving part (709a) of the manual spraying unit (709) according to the number of manual spraying receiving parts (709a) capable of receiving the agent. Therefore, it becomes possible to distribute the agent contained in each of the multiple sorting cups (141) at the same time.

[0313] Additionally, the processing of S2, S4, and S5 may be performed by the user. For example, the user may specify the filling location of the drug contained in the sorting cup (141) by checking the journal issued by the drug sorting device (1). In this case, the control unit (706) displays the identification information read from the sorting cup (141) on the touch panel (704). Accordingly, the user can check whether it is a journal for the drug.

[0314] Also, in the above processing, the drug contained in the sorting cup (141) is not contained in the fixed cassette (800). However, by mounting an empty fixed cassette (800) capable of dispensing the drug in the fixed cassette mounting part (705b), the control unit (706) may specify the fixed cassette (800) as the filling place for the drug contained in the sorting cup (141).

[0315] <Separate processing in this embodiment>

[0316] An alternative example of distribution processing in the distributor (700) is described. FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing an alternative example of distribution processing in the distributor (700).

[0317] Here, the case in which the distributor (700) distributes the drug based on prescription data is described. Additionally, in the case where the fixed cassette (800) itself, which receives the drug to be discharged, is not present, it is described as having the drug to be discharged among the drugs classified by the drug classification device (1).

[0318] First, when the control unit (706) receives prescription data (S21), it determines whether there is a fixed cassette (800) containing the drug (drug to be discharged) included in the prescription data (S22). If the control unit (706) determines that the corresponding fixed cassette (800) exists (e.g. in S22), it identifies the fixed cassette (800) as a cassette for discharging the drug (S23).

[0319] If the control unit (706) determines that there is no corresponding fixed cassette (800) (S22, No), it determines whether there is a usable variable cassette (801) among the variable cassettes (801) owned by the user (S24).

[0320] When the control unit (706) determines that there is a usable variable cassette (801) (e.g., in S24), it identifies the variable cassette (801) as a cassette for discharging the drug to be discharged (S25). In short, the control unit (706) assigns identification information of the drug to be discharged to the variable cassette (801).

[0321] Additionally, the control unit (706) notifies the user to fill a specific variable cassette (801) with a drug. The user takes out the sorting cup (141) containing the drug from the drug sorting device (1) and places the sorting cup (141) on the replenishment table (703). Accordingly, the RFID reader of the replenishment table (703) reads the identification information stored in the RFID tag of the sorting cup (141) (S26). If the control unit (706) determines that the read identification information matches the identification information assigned to the specific variable cassette (801), it makes the variable cassette (801) capable of receiving the drug (e.g., unlocks the variable cassette mounting unit (702)). After that, the user receives the drug contained in the sorting cup (141) into the variable cassette (801) and performs a user operation, for example, to start dispensing. Accordingly, it becomes possible to discharge the drug to be discharged from the variable cassette (801).

[0322] If the control unit (706) determines that there is no available variable cassette (801) (No in S24), it designates the manual spraying unit (709) as the unit for discharging the agent to be discharged (S27). In this case, the control unit (706) determines the location of the manual spraying receiving unit (709a) that receives the agent to be discharged based on prescription data, and issues an instruction sheet reflecting the result of the determination. While checking the instruction sheet, the user receives the agent (agent to be discharged) contained in the sorting cup (141) into the manual spraying receiving unit (709a), and then performs a user operation, for example, to start distribution. Accordingly, it becomes possible to discharge the agent to be discharged from the manual spraying unit (709).

[0323] The control unit (706) specifies the discharge location for all drugs included in the prescription data as described above. Then, the control unit (706) discharges and distributes the drugs from the fixed cassette (800), the variable cassette (801), and / or the manual dispensing unit (709) based on the prescription data (S28).

[0324] Additionally, when the medication contained in the fixed cassette (800) is emptied, the control unit (706) may notify the user to place the medication in the fixed cassette (800). In this case, the user confirms the notification and removes the sorting cup (141) containing the medication from the medication sorting device (1) and places it on the replenishment table (703). Accordingly, the control unit (706) rotates all fixed cassette mounting parts (705b) so that the corresponding fixed cassette (800) is placed on the front side of the distributor (700), so the user can place the medication contained in the sorting cup (141) into the fixed cassette (800).

[0325] Additionally, in the above, after determining whether the fixed cassette (800) can be used, the variable cassette (801) can be used, and then the manual spraying unit (709) can be used, but this is not limited thereto. The control unit (706) may specify which of the fixed cassette (800), the variable cassette (801), and the manual spraying unit (709) to discharge for each type of drug included in the prescription data. For example, the control unit (706) specifies the discharge location of the drug according to predetermined discharge location information for each type of drug. In short, in this case, the control unit (706) specifies the discharge location of the drug included in the prescription data without determining whether the fixed cassette (800) and the variable cassette (801) can be used, so the processing time of the distribution can be shortened compared to the processing method shown in FIG. 22.

[0326] [Embodiment 9]

[0327] In this embodiment, an example of a discrimination process is described using FIG. 1. As described in Embodiment 1, the classification control unit (62) determines a classification position in a temporary judgment area (Ar12) based on at least one of the color, shape, or information assigned to the estimated drug in the image. Specifically, the classification control unit (62) determines a classification position such that the classification positions of estimated drugs that are considered to match at least one of the color, shape, or information assigned to the estimated drug become identical.

[0328] The threshold value used to determine whether there is a match may not be a fixed value, but may be changeable by user operation. In short, the threshold value for determining whether there is a match in the color, shape, or at least one of the information assigned to the estimated drug may be set variably, and the classification control unit (62) may use the threshold value to perform the determination when determining the classification position in the temporary judgment area (Ar12).

[0329] In the temporary judgment area (Ar12), the criteria for judgment that a item must be accepted in the same sorting cup (141) vary depending on the user. For example, there are users who think that if it is white, it should be accepted in the same sorting cup (141) even if the size or shape is somewhat different, while there are users who think that it cannot be accepted in the same sorting cup (141) unless the color, size, and shape match to some extent. In addition, there are users who think that it cannot be accepted in the same sorting cup (141) unless the surface imprint information and the back imprint information match to some extent.

[0330] By using a threshold value set by user operation, classification of drugs in the temporary judgment area (Ar12) can be performed according to each user's criteria.

[0331] In addition, by strictly setting a threshold so as not to allow any difference, such as color or shape, it becomes possible to compress the candidates for drug types as much as possible, even if the type of drug could not be identified. Therefore, drugs with relatively high degree of feature matching can be accommodated in the same classification cup (141) placed in the temporary judgment area (Ar12).

[0332] In particular, in the case of a drug brought by the user, since it is not a drug prescribed by the user, the search range for identifying the type becomes wider and more extensive compared to the drug. Therefore, in the case of a drug brought by the user, it is possible to narrow the search range in the next type identification by setting a threshold so that drugs with a relatively high degree of agreement are accommodated in the same classification cup (141) placed in the temporary judgment area (Ar12).

[0333] In addition, the classification control unit (62) stores an image of the medicine contained in the classification cup (141) by combining it with the medicine data of the medicine, even if the type of medicine cannot be identified. Therefore, it is possible to keep evidence of the medicine whose type could not be identified. For example, regarding medicine brought by the user, since it is not a medicine prescribed by the user, it is easy to encounter difficulties in identifying its type. By storing the image, the image can be effectively utilized for identifying the medicine brought by the user, etc.

[0334] Also, the number of classification cups (141) in the temporary judgment area (Ar12) is finite and small. By setting a threshold value to allow for a certain degree of difference in color or shape, the number of classification cups (141) used in the temporary judgment area (Ar12) can be reduced.

[0335] Additionally, as a threshold value, a level (strictness) can be set for each of the multiple judgment targets. For example, if the judgment target is color, the range of chromaticity judged as matching is set as the threshold value; if the judgment target is shape, the range of shape judged as matching is set as the threshold value. Furthermore, whether to use a threshold value for multiple judgment targets can also be set. For example, if the judgment target is color and shape, color only, shape only, or both color and shape can be selected as the judgment targets used.

[0336] Various types of control units for adjusting the above level may be used, such as touch-type LED level bars, dial-type control units, and quick-wheel-type control units. In addition, specific examples of the judgment target may include, in addition to the color and shape of the drug, the presence or absence of imprint information, the location of imprint information, and the size of the drug. When the location of the imprint information is set to "single-sided," the imprint information on one side is extracted as a candidate for the same type of drug, and when it is set to "double-sided," only the imprint information on both sides is extracted as a candidate for the same type of drug. Furthermore, the threshold value for the size of the drug can be set in units of 1 mm.

[0337] [Embodiment 10]

[0338] In this embodiment, a configuration for reducing the time of drug classification processing is described using FIG. 1. The drug classification device (1) of this embodiment may have the basic configuration described in Embodiment 2, just like Embodiment 6.

[0339] When all sorting cups (141) are filled with drugs, drugs of a different type from the drugs filled in all sorting cups (141) cannot be sorted into the sorting cups (141) until an empty sorting cup (141) is created.

[0340] The control unit (60a) of the drug classification device (1) specifies the drugs contained in the classification cup (141) as distribution targets when a predetermined condition is satisfied, regardless of the number of drugs contained in the classification cup (141). For example, the control unit (60a) specifies a classification cup (141) containing drugs that are not implemented by the distributor (700) (non-implemented drugs), or a classification cup (141) selected by the user, as a classification cup (141) containing drugs to be distributed. In this case, the more drugs specified as distribution targets, the more time is required for the distribution process.

[0341] In this embodiment, a number is pre-set to determine whether the drugs contained in the sorting cups (141) are to be distributed. When drugs are contained in all sorting cups (141), the control unit (60a) identifies the sorting cups (141) in which the number of drugs contained in each sorting cup (141) is less than or equal to the pre-set number. Then, the control unit (60a) identifies the drugs contained in the specific sorting cups (141) as drugs to be distributed.

[0342] For this reason, the sorting cup (141) occupied by the small number of drugs can be made empty first (a state available for use for the next drug sorting). For this reason, even if all sorting cups (141) are filled with drugs, empty sorting cups (141) can be prepared in a shorter time, so it is possible to shorten the time for drug sorting processing.

[0343] Also, when all sorting cups (141) contain medication, in order to empty any sorting cup (141), the user needs to operate, for example, the distribution device (6). Also, for example, the user needs to take out the sorting cup (141) and fill the medication contained in the sorting cup (141) into the distributor (700) or the medication shelf. These tasks may be burdensome, especially for a user who does not want to perform medication distribution as much as possible.

[0344] As described above, the control unit (60a) determines, when all sorting cups (141) contain drugs, the drugs contained in sorting cups (141) whose number of drugs contained in each sorting cup (141) is less than or equal to a preset number as the distribution target by the distribution mechanism (6). In short, empty sorting cups (141) can be prepared automatically without user operation. Therefore, the burden on the user associated with the above operation can be reduced.

[0345] In addition, the same applies to cases where a confirmed area (Ar11) and a temporary judgment area (Ar12) are set. In short, when drugs are contained in all classification cups (141) of the confirmed area (Ar11), the control unit (60a) identifies a classification cup (141) in which the number of contained drugs is less than or equal to a preset number. Furthermore, the control unit (60a) may designate the drugs contained in the identified classification cup (141) as targets for distribution by the distribution mechanism (6). The same applies when drugs are contained in all classification cups (141) of the temporary judgment area (Ar12).

[0346] [Embodiment 11]

[0347] In this embodiment, using FIG. 1 and FIG. 23, a configuration for preventing forgetting to attach the adsorption pad (122c) is described. FIG. 23 (a) and (b) are drawings showing an example of the operation of the adsorption mechanism (122a). The drug classification device (1) of this embodiment, like embodiment 6, may have the basic configuration described in embodiment 2.

[0348] As described in Embodiment 1 using FIG. 1, etc., the adsorption shutter mechanism (122) is equipped with an adsorption mechanism (122a) that adsorbs a specific drug to be transported. As shown in FIG. 23 (a), the adsorption mechanism (122a) is equipped with an air pipe (122b) through which air flows and an adsorption pad (122c) that contacts the drug to be transported at the tip of the air pipe (122b). The adsorption pad (122c) is connected to a vacuum pump (not shown) that generates a vacuum (suctions air) through the air pipe (122b).

[0349] The suction pad (122c) can be detached from the air pipe (122b) for cleaning. After cleaning, the suction pad (122c) is attached to the air pipe (122b). The return control unit (61) lowers the suction mechanism to a predetermined height from the bottom of the first receiving unit (11) or the base (19) (reference surface) at the start of operation of the drug sorting device (1), for example, in order to prevent forgetting to attach the suction pad (122c). The predetermined height is set to a height such that the suction pad (122c) contacts the reference surface while the suction pad (122c) is attached.

[0350] The return control unit (61) measures the flow rate in the air pipe (122b) by performing suction at a predetermined height. If there is a change in the flow rate, it determines that the suction pad (122c) is attached, and if there is no change in the flow rate, it determines that the suction pad (122c) is not attached.

[0351] However, when determining whether the adsorption pad (122c) is attached using the above method, it is necessary to strictly define the predetermined height and the size of the adsorption pad (122c) for each drug classification device (1). Therefore, time and effort are required for each drug classification device (1) to adjust the predetermined height and measure the size of the adsorption pad (122c). In addition, there is a possibility of misjudgment due to individual differences in the adsorption pad (122c).

[0352] In this embodiment, when the front end of the adsorption mechanism (122a) to which the adsorption pad (122c) is attached is brought close to the reference surface, the position of the front end relative to the reference surface is defined such that the distance between the reference surface and at least two points on the front end is different.

[0353] Specifically, as shown in FIG. 23 (a), a base (19) is provided with an inclined plate (21). The inclined plate (21) has an inclined surface (21a) that is inclined with respect to the front surface of the suction mechanism (122a) (the bottom surface of the suction pad (122c) when the suction pad (122c) is attached). The inclined surface (21a) is the reference surface.

[0354] Consider the case where the suction mechanism (122a) is brought close to the inclined surface (21a) to a predetermined height and suctioned. The predetermined height is defined as a position where a part of the suction pad (122c) (here, the first part (Pr1)) comes into contact when the suction pad (122c) is attached.

[0355] When the adsorption pad (122c) is attached, there is almost no gap between the first part (Pr1) and the inclined surface (21a), so the change in flow rate in the first part (Pr1) becomes large. Therefore, in this case, the return control unit (61) can determine that the change in flow rate has become greater than a threshold value (the flow rate has become less than a threshold value) and can determine that the adsorption pad (122c) is attached.

[0356] Additionally, depending on the distance between each position on the adsorption pad (122c) and the inclined surface (21a), the amount of change in flow rate at each position is different. Due to this difference in the amount of change in flow rate, the shape of the adsorption pad (122c) changes. Specifically, the shape of the adsorption pad (122c) changes so that the change in flow rate at the adsorption pad (122c) becomes greater as the distance is closer (for example, the change in flow rate becomes greater at the first part (Pr1) than at the second part (Pr2). Therefore, the flow rate of the first part (Pr1) is more likely to change significantly compared to the flow rate of the second part (Pr2).

[0357] However, even if the shape of the adsorption pad (122c) changes, the adsorption pad (122c) is adsorbed to the inclined surface (21a). Therefore, the return control unit (61) can determine whether the adsorption pad (122c) is installed based on the change in flow rate, even if the inclined platform (21) is used.

[0358] Meanwhile, when the adsorption pad (122c) is not attached, a gap is created between the thickness portion of the adsorption pad (122c), the first part (Pr1), and the inclined surface (21a), so there is almost no change in flow rate in the first part (Pr1). Therefore, the return control unit (61) can determine that the change in flow rate is below a threshold value (the flow rate remains above the threshold value) and can determine that the adsorption pad (122c) is not attached.

[0359] Also, as shown in FIG. 23 (b), it is acceptable to determine whether the adsorption pad (122c) is attached by bringing the adsorption mechanism (122a) close to the wall surface (11a) of the first receiving portion (11). In this case, the wall surface (11a) is the reference surface.

[0360] Consider the case where the suction mechanism (122a) is lowered into the interior of the first receiving portion (11), brought close to the wall surface (11a) at a predetermined distance, and suctioned. The predetermined distance is defined as a position where a part of the suction pad (122c) (here, the second part (Pr2)) comes into contact when the suction pad (122c) is attached.

[0361] When the adsorption pad (122c) is attached, there is almost no gap between the second part (Pr2) and the wall surface (11a), so the change in flow rate in the second part (Pr2) becomes large. Therefore, in this case, the return control unit (61) can determine that the change in flow rate has exceeded a threshold value and can determine that the adsorption pad (122c) is attached. In addition, as described above, the shape of the adsorption pad (122c) changes because the amount of change in the flow rate in the adsorption pad (122c) varies depending on the distance between each position in the adsorption pad (122c) and the wall surface (11a). Due to this, the flow rate in the second part (Pr2) is prone to changing significantly compared to the flow rate in the first part (Pr1).

[0362] Meanwhile, when the adsorption pad (122c) is not attached, at least no change in flow rate occurs due to a change in the shape of the adsorption pad (122c). Therefore, even if a change in flow rate occurs, the change is smaller than when the adsorption pad (122c) is attached. Therefore, the return control unit (61) can determine that the change in flow rate is less than a threshold value and can determine that the adsorption pad (122c) is not attached.

[0363] According to the above configuration, it is not necessary to strictly define the travel distance of the suction mechanism (122a) to the inclined surface (21a) or wall surface (11a). This is because, when the suction pad (122c) is attached, the change in flow rate becomes greater due to the change in the shape of the suction pad (122c). Therefore, the time and effort required to strictly define the travel distance can be reduced.

[0364] In addition, it is possible to set a predetermined height or a predetermined distance at a position slightly away from the contact position between the reference surface and the suction pad (122c). It is also assumed that various shapes or sizes of suction pads (122c) may be mixed and used due to individual differences in the suction pads (122c) or changes in the design of the suction pads (122c). By setting a predetermined height or a predetermined distance as described above, the conveying control unit (61) can reliably detect whether the suction pad (122c) is installed regardless of the various shapes or sizes of the suction pads (122c).

[0365] [Embodiment 12]

[0366] In this embodiment, using FIGS. 1, FIGS. 3, FIGS. 4, FIGS. 14, and FIGS. 24, a configuration for determining the type of a drug having a predetermined shape with good precision is described. FIGS. 24 is a drawing showing an example of a drug with a slender, elongated shape, (a) is a plan view, and (b) is a side view. The drug classification device (1) of this embodiment may have the basic configuration described in FIGS. 2, just like FIGS. 6.

[0367] As described in Embodiment 1, the pivoting mechanism (133b) shown in FIG. 3 (a) and (b) can vibrate the drug storage stand (133a). By vibrating the drug storage stand (133a) with the pivoting mechanism (133b), imprint information or factor information can be directed in a predetermined direction (e.g., upward (+Z axis direction)). Also, by vibrating the drug storage stand (133a), drugs that are not located near the center of the drug storage stand (133a) can be moved to approximately the center. Furthermore, when the drug is a tablet, as shown in FIG. 14 (b), the pivoting mechanism (133b) rotates the shaft portion (133c) so that the inclined surface portion (133ab) of the drug storage stand (133a) becomes approximately horizontal.

[0368] And, as shown in FIG. 4 (a) and (b), the swivel mechanism (133b) rotates the imaging mechanism, which includes the first camera (131) and the illuminator (134), to swivel around the placement area (Ar2). Accordingly, the first camera (131) can image the drug placed on the drug placement table (133a) from four points in the placement area (Ar2), for example, θ = 0°, 45°, 135° and 180°.

[0369] However, depending on the shape of the drug, when the drug is moved approximately to the center by vibration by the turning mechanism (133b), the imprint information or factor information may end up facing in a direction other than the intended direction (an unintended direction) due to the vibration. For example, in the case of a drug (MD) (e.g., Sotacor (registered trademark)) as shown in FIG. 24 (a) and (b), there is a possibility that the imprint information ("AAA 000" in FIG. 24 (a)) may end up facing in an unintended direction.

[0370] In the case of the drug (MD), imprinted information is applied to the upper surface (MDt), but not to the side surface (MDs). In addition, not only the upper surface (MDt) or the lower surface (MDu), but also the side surface (MDs) is formed in a planar shape having an area greater than a predetermined area. Therefore, even if any of the upper surface (MDt), the lower surface (MDu), and the side surface (MDs) face the bottom of the drug storage base (133a), the drug will stand upright. Furthermore, drugs having such a shape are often slender and long, as shown in FIG. 24 (a) and (b).

[0371] When the drug is standing upright with the side (MDs) facing the bottom of the drug placement table (133a), the imprint information is discarded in the lateral direction (a direction approximately perpendicular to the Z-axis direction). Since the first camera (131) captures images from a predetermined position (e.g., the four points above), depending on the direction, there is a possibility that the imprint information cannot be captured to the extent that it can be identified.

[0372] In the drug classification device (1) of this embodiment, the turning mechanism (133b) changes the magnitude of the vibration applied to the drug storage stand (133a) and the rotational speed of the shaft part (133c) to change the angle of inclination of the inclined surface part (133ab) based on the shape of the drug.

[0373] Specifically, the discrimination unit (64) obtains the length of the long side (L1) and the length of the short side (L2) of the drug by interpreting the captured image, and calculates the aspect ratio of the drug. Based on the aspect ratio of the drug, the discrimination unit (64) determines whether the ratio of the length of the long side (L1) to the length of the short side (L2) (length of the long side (L1) / length of the short side (L2)) is greater than or equal to a predetermined value. The predetermined value may be set to a size such that, for example, through experiments, etc., it is possible to detect a drug standing upright with its side (MDs) facing downward.

[0374] The determination unit (64) determines that the ratio of the length of the long side (L1) to the length of the short side (L2) is greater than or equal to a predetermined value (in other words, determines that the drug is standing upright with the side (MDs) facing downward), and sets the magnitude of the vibration and the rotation speed according to the set value when it is greater than or equal to the predetermined value. The imaging control unit (63) controls the swivel mechanism (133b) to vibrate and rotate the drug storage stand (133a) with the magnitude of the vibration and the rotation speed set according to the set value.

[0375] For example, with the above setting value, the vibration and rotational speed are set smaller compared to the setting value when the ratio of the length of the long side (L1) to the length of the short side (L2) is less than a predetermined value. The vibration is set to, for example, 0.

[0376] In this way, when the ratio of the length of the long side (L1) to the length of the short side (L2) is greater than or equal to a predetermined value, the vibration and rotational speed are reduced so that the drug can be moved so that the drug standing upright with its side (MDs) facing downward does not stand up on the drug holding stand (133a). Therefore, since the imprinted information is not directed in a direction other than the predetermined direction by the movement of the drug holding stand (133a), it is possible to perform the identification of the drug type (identification of the drug) with good precision.

[0377] In addition, it is possible to prevent the drug from standing up while in a side (MDs) positioned downward. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of re-imaging and identification of the drug type resulting from the state in which it was placed. Thus, it becomes possible to efficiently identify and classify the drug.

[0378] [Embodiment 13]

[0379] In this embodiment, a configuration for reducing the time of distribution processing is described using FIGS. 1, FIGS. 20, and FIGS. 25. FIGS. 25 (a) is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a drug classification device (1A) as a modified example, and (b) and (c) are diagrams for explaining the shape and operation of the tip portion of a classification cup conveying mechanism (125).

[0380] The drug sorting device (1A) differs from the drug sorting device (1) in that it is equipped with a sorting cup return mechanism (125) and a variable cassette (801), as shown in FIG. 25 (a). In short, the drug sorting device (1A) has the same configuration and function as the drug sorting device (1) with respect to the configuration other than the sorting cup return mechanism (125) and the variable cassette (801). The drug sorting device (1A) only needs to have the basic configuration described in at least Embodiment 2.

[0381] The drug classification device (1A) is equipped with a distribution mechanism (6). The distribution mechanism (6) is equipped with a packaging hopper (6a) that temporarily holds the drug and a heater roller (6b) that heat-fuses the distribution sheet on which the drug is distributed. The drug discharged from the variable cassette (801) is transferred to the heater roller (6b) via the packaging hopper (6a) and distributed to the distribution sheet by the heater roller (6b).

[0382] Additionally, the drug sorting device (1A) is equipped with a variable cassette (801) as shown in FIG. 20 (a). The variable cassette (801) dispenses the drug injected into the drug inlet (17) one tablet at a time. The variable cassette (801) is installed below the drug inlet (17) so that the drug injected from the drug inlet (17) can be received by the first rotating body (8011). Additionally, the variable cassette (801) is installed above the packaging hopper (6a) so that the packaging hopper (6a) can receive the drug discharged from the discharge port (8015) by the second rotating body (8012). Furthermore, the drug sorting device (1A) is equipped with a variable cassette mounting part (not shown) that is mounted with and drives the variable cassette (801).

[0383] The adsorption shutter mechanism (122) is equipped with an adsorption mechanism (e.g., the adsorption mechanism (122a) of FIG. 23) and a sorting cup conveying mechanism (125) as shown in FIG. 25 (a). The adsorption mechanism and the sorting cup conveying mechanism (125) can move together in the ±Z axis direction. The adsorption mechanism adsorbs a specific drug designated as a conveying target. Therefore, the conveying control unit (61) or the sorting control unit (62) controls the movement of the adsorption mechanism in the ±Z axis direction when conveying the drug. Meanwhile, the sorting cup conveying mechanism (125) moves the sorting cup (141) between the second receiving unit (14) and the drug inlet (17). For this reason, the classification control unit (62) controls the movement of the classification cup conveying mechanism (125) in the ±Z axis direction when distributing the drug to the distribution mechanism (6).

[0384] As shown in FIG. 25(b), the sorting cup conveying mechanism (125) comprises, for example, a gripping part (125a), a rotating part (125b), and a supporting part (125c). The gripping part (125a) grips the sorting cup (141). In the example of FIG. 25(b), the gripping part (125a) is realized by two claw parts capable of performing opening and closing operations. The rotating part (125b) has a rotation axis that extends in a direction approximately perpendicular to the Z-axis direction and rotates the gripping part (125a). The supporting part (125c) supports the gripping part (125a) at its tip.

[0385] When distributing a drug contained in a sorting cup (141) to a distribution mechanism (6), the sorting control unit (62) controls the return mechanism (123) to move the drug contained in the sorting cup (141) to the sorting cup return mechanism (125). After that, the sorting control unit (62) moves the sorting cup return mechanism (125) downward to hold the sorting cup (141) in the gripping unit (125a).

[0386] The classification control unit (62) moves the classification cup return mechanism (125) above the drug inlet (17) while the gripping unit (125a) is gripping the classification cup (141), and then drives the rotation unit (125b) to rotate the gripping unit (125a) upward. Accordingly, the drug contained in the classification cup (141) can be injected into the drug inlet (17).

[0387] The control unit (60a) drives the height regulator (8013) and the width regulator (8014) before the drug is introduced into the variable cassette (801) to adjust the transfer height (h1) and the transfer width (w1) based on the size of the drug. Then, the control unit (60a), for example, when the drug is introduced into the variable cassette (801), rotates the first rotor (8011) and the second rotor (8012) to send the introduced drug one tablet at a time into the packaging hopper (6a). Accordingly, the drug can be distributed by the distribution mechanism (6).

[0388] When discharging the drug contained in the sorting cup (141) to the distribution device (6) using an adsorption device, it is necessary to adsorb the drug contained in the sorting cup (141) one by one and return it to the drug inlet (17). Therefore, the more drugs there are, the more time is required to discharge the drugs. Also, time is required to prepare an empty sorting cup (141).

[0389] As with the drug sorting device (1A), by making it possible to mount a variable cassette (801) below the drug inlet (17), the drugs contained in the sorting cups (141) can be fed into the variable cassette (801) at once. Therefore, even if all sorting cups (141) are filled with drugs, empty sorting cups (141) can be prepared in a short time for the next drug sorting, thus making it possible to shorten the time for drug sorting processing. In addition, the time for distribution processing can also be shortened.

[0390] Additionally, the drug sorting device (1A) can automatically send the drug contained in the sorting cup (141) to the distribution device (6) by being equipped with a sorting cup return mechanism (125). Therefore, when distributing using the distribution device (6), the user can reduce the effort of moving the sorting cup (141) to the drug inlet (17) and putting the drug contained in the sorting cup (141) into the drug inlet (17).

[0391] Additionally, although the sorting cup return mechanism (125) was described as being equipped with a return / sorting unit (12), it is not limited to this and may be formed separately from the return / sorting unit (12) in the drug sorting device (1).

[0392] [Embodiment 14]

[0393] In this embodiment, a configuration for improving the precision of the discrimination process is described using FIG. 1. The drug classification device (1) of this embodiment may have the basic configuration described in Embodiment 2, just like Embodiment 6.

[0394] Among the drugs used in prescriptions, there are drugs that are similar in color and size, even if they are of different types. For example, there are users in whom about 70 to 80% of the drugs used are white tablets with a specified size (e.g., diameter of 7 mm).

[0395] When determining the type of drug received in the first receiving unit (11), the determination unit (64) compares the characteristics of the drug extracted from the image captured by the first camera (131) with multiple drug data registered in the drug database. For example, the determination unit (64) calculates the degree of agreement between the characteristics of the drug and the drug data as a score, and ranks the drug data in order of highest score. Then, the determination unit (64) identifies the drug data up to the set rank (e.g., drug data from 1st to 10th rank) as candidates (candidate data) of drug data used to determine the type of drug.

[0396] For drugs received in the drug classification device (1), if the size or color of the drugs differs depending on the type, the score of the drug data ranked 1st often stands out compared to the score of the drug data ranked 2nd or lower. Therefore, in this case, the discrimination unit (64) can sufficiently identify the type of drug by specifying the rank set as above (e.g., 10th rank) as candidate data.

[0397] However, when candidate data is specified as described above, there is a possibility that the type of drug cannot be accurately identified for drugs that are different in type but similar in size and color. In short, if there are many drugs similar in size and color, it is highly likely that the scores are similar even in ranks lower than the set rank (if the set rank is 10th, then 11th rank and below). Therefore, there is a possibility that drug data that should originally be identified exists in the ranks below.

[0398] Therefore, in order to identify the type of such drug with good precision, the identification unit (64) identifies drug data as candidate data in which the degree of agreement with the characteristic extracted from the image is greater than or equal to a predetermined value as a result of comparing the characteristic of the drug extracted from the image with the registered drug data. Then, the identification unit (64) identifies the type of drug by comparing the characteristic of the drug extracted from the image of the drug captured again with the candidate data.

[0399] For example, the discrimination unit (64) calculates the degree of agreement (score) with the characteristics of the drug extracted from the image for each drug data included in the drug database, and identifies the drug data with the highest score. The discrimination unit (64) identifies all drug data within a preset range of difference values ​​with the score of the drug data with the highest score as candidate data. Then, the discrimination unit (64) sets a flag on the drug data identified as candidate data, for example.

[0400] For example, let’s assume that the score is defined as 0 to 100 (the higher the value, the higher the agreement). For example, if the score of the drug data ranked 1st is 97.5 and the preset difference value is 0.3, the discrimination unit (64) identifies all drug data with a score of 97.2 (= 97.5 ― 0.3) or higher as candidate data.

[0401] After that, the first camera (131) captures the drug again, and the discrimination unit (64) calculates a score by comparing the characteristics of the drug included in the captured image with specific candidate data. Then, candidate data whose score is within the range of a preset difference value is identified as additional candidate data.

[0402] The determination unit (64) uniquely identifies the drug data by repeating this process. Additionally, the determination of whether to image the drug again (number of images) may be determined by the number of identified candidate data, etc.

[0403] In this way, by compressing drug data with a score greater than a predetermined value as candidate data, all drug data to be extracted can be identified without omission. Consequently, it becomes possible to identify drug types with good precision.

[0404] In addition, when imaging the same drug is repeated, there is a possibility that the position of the drug may differ each time it is imaged. If the drug is imaged at a position different from that of the previous image, there is a possibility that the imaging conditions will be better than those of the previous image. Therefore, by repeatedly imaging the same drug, it is possible to calculate a score with good precision.

[0405] Also, the identification unit (64) may perform the repetitive processing of comparing the characteristics of the drug included in the image with the candidate data to uniquely identify the drug data as follows.

[0406] For example, the discrimination unit (64) calculates a score for all candidate data by comparing the characteristics of the drug included in the image with all specific candidate data during the first comparison. The discrimination unit (64) identifies candidate data with a higher score among the calculated scores (e.g., candidate data within the top 75% (in other words, drug data with a score greater than or equal to a predetermined value)) as candidate data to be compared in the second comparison. Accordingly, candidate data with a lower score (e.g., candidate data within the bottom 25%) can be excluded from candidate data to be compared in the second comparison. Likewise, the discrimination unit (64) identifies candidate data with a higher score among the scores calculated during the second comparison (e.g., candidate data within the top 75%) as candidate data to be compared in the third comparison.

[0407] For example, if the characteristic of the drug included in the image is imprint information, the discrimination unit (64) specifies, each time it compares, the drug data having imprint information with a degree of agreement with the imprint information of the drug included in the image that is greater than or equal to a predetermined value (e.g., a degree of agreement of 75% or more) as the next candidate data to be compared.

[0408] In this way, by performing a comparison while reducing the number of candidate data to be compared and uniquely identifying the drug data, it becomes possible to efficiently identify the drug data. Furthermore, the above 75% is merely an example, and can be set to a value that allows for the efficient identification of drug data through experiments, etc.

[0409] [Embodiment 15]

[0410] In this embodiment, an alternative example of distribution processing is described using FIG. 1. The drug classification device (1) of this embodiment may be equipped with a distribution mechanism (6) in addition to the basic configuration described in Embodiment 2.

[0411] After the medication is distributed based on prescription data by the distributor (700), there may be cases where a change occurs in the prescription and the distribution content is urgently changed. For example, if a change in the prescription occurs to remove one type of medication, the user may tear each medication bag, remove the medication from each bag, and then re-seal each bag with adhesive tape, etc. When the number of medication bags is small, such manual redistribution by the user is possible, but when the number of medication bags is large, such manual redistribution becomes practically difficult. Therefore, when the number of medication bags to be redistributed is large, in reality, all medication bags are discarded and redistribution based on the modified prescription data is carried out by the distributor (700), etc.

[0412] In this embodiment, the drug classification device (1) may perform distribution processing by the distribution mechanism (6) based on prescription data. For example, if a change in prescription occurs after the distribution processing of the drug based on prescription data, the user puts the drug contained in each drug bag into the first receiving section (11). The drug classification device (1) classifies the drug contained in the first receiving section (11) into the classification cup (141) of the second receiving section (14) by type. After the classification by type is completed, the drug classification device (1) distributes the drug classified in the second receiving section (14) by the distribution mechanism (6) based on the prescription data after modification (prescription data reflecting the above change).

[0413] In this way, the drug sorting device (1) can perform redistribution according to the changes when a change occurs in the prescription. Therefore, for example, when a change in the prescription occurs to remove one type of drug, it is possible to reduce the effort of performing manual work such as removing the drug from each drug bag and then sealing the drug bags with adhesive tape. In addition, it is possible to perform redistribution without discarding the entire drug bag.

[0414] Additionally, the drug classification device (1) does not necessarily need to classify each type into the second receiving section (14). For example, the drug classification device (1) may receive drugs that are redistributed to the same drug bag based on prescription data after modification into the same classification cup (141). In this case, as in the above, the drug classification device (1) classifies the drugs into the second receiving section (14) and then distributes the drugs by the distribution mechanism (6) based on prescription data after modification.

[0415] Here, for example, in the drug sorting device (1A) shown in embodiment 13 (Fig. 25), the sorting cup (141) can be conveyed to the drug inlet (17) as described above. In short, in the drug sorting device (1A), the drug contained in one sorting cup (141) can be introduced into the drug inlet (17) at once. Therefore, when the drug to be redistributed in the same drug bag is contained in the same sorting cup (141), the drug for one drug bag can be introduced into the distribution mechanism (6) at once, making it possible to perform the distribution process more efficiently.

[0416] In addition, the above description uses the case where the distribution mechanism (6) of the drug classification device (1) is used for distribution processing based on prescription data after modification, but it is not limited to this and may be used for distribution processing for example. In short, after the drug is received in each drug pouch (distribution zone) based on example data by the distributor (700), etc., if a change occurs in the content of the example data, the drug classification device (1) may perform distribution processing based on the example data after modification, just like distribution processing based on prescription data after modification. Also, example data is data created for example, and is data regarding the method of receiving the drug for each distribution zone.

[0417] In addition, although the above description uses the example of a prescription change that removes a drug, a prescription change that adds a drug can also be considered. In this case, the user places the drug to be added into a sorting cup (141) and places the sorting cup (141) in the second receiving section (14). Accordingly, even if a prescription change that adds a drug occurs, the drug sorting device (1) can redistribute the drug by the distribution mechanism (6) based on the prescription data after modification.

[0418] [supplement]

[0419] As described above, the second receiving section (14) accommodates drugs of each type. The meaning of accommodating drugs of each type in the second receiving section (14) includes accommodating drugs in the same location (same classification cup (141)) for each type of drug that can be uniquely (completely) identified. Furthermore, the meaning includes accommodating drugs in the same location for each drug that has similar characteristics (presumed drugs) for each drug that cannot be uniquely identified but can be identified as having similar characteristics based on the color, shape, etc. of the drugs.

[0420] [Embodiment 16]

[0421] In this embodiment, the operation of the drug classification device (1) during startup is described. The drug classification device (1) of this embodiment has at least the basic configuration described in Embodiment 2. The same applies to subsequent embodiments.

[0422] <Control Unit>

[0423] First, the control unit (60b) will be described using FIG. 26. FIG. 26 is a block diagram showing an example of the control unit (60b). As shown in FIG. 26, the control unit (60b) is equipped with a drive control unit (71), an object presence determination unit (72), a flow rate determination unit (73), and a distribution control unit (74) in addition to the configuration of the control unit (60a). Furthermore, in the following embodiments, the control unit may have the control unit (60a) as its basic configuration and may be equipped with at least any of the above components required for the operation and processing of each embodiment.

[0424] The drive control unit (71) controls the movement of a casing (hereinafter referred to as the drug transport unit (120)) including a second camera (121) and an adsorption shutter mechanism (122), and the movement of an obstacle detection mechanism (22). Specifically, the drive control unit (71) moves the obstacle detection mechanism (22) in conjunction with the movement of the drug transport unit (120).

[0425] The object presence determination unit (72) determines whether there is an object to be installed on the base (19). Examples of objects to be determined include, for instance, a sorting cup base (14a) (see FIG. 27), a waiting tray (15) (see FIG. 27), a recovery tray (16) (see FIG. 27), and an adsorption pad (122c) (see FIG. 23, FIG. 31).

[0426] The flow rate determination unit (73) determines whether the flow rate in the adsorption mechanism (122a) (see FIG. 23 and FIG. 31) is less than or equal to a predetermined value, thereby determining whether damage, etc. (suction abnormality) has occurred in the adsorption mechanism (122a).

[0427] The distribution control unit (74) controls the operation of the distribution mechanism (6). Additionally, the distribution control unit (74) controls the operation of the drug return unit (120) which returns the drug stored in the sorting cup (141) to the drug inlet (17) (drug inlet), or returns the drug injected into the drug inlet (17) to the sorting cup (141).

[0428] In addition, it should be noted that in the description of the drug classification device (1) in the present specification, the term “distribution” includes the meaning of “packaging drugs by dividing them according to the time of administration based on prescription data” and the meaning of “simply packaging drugs classified in the second receiving part (14) regardless of prescription data.”

[0429] <Obstacle Detection Device>

[0430] First, the obstacle detection mechanism (22) will be described using FIGS. 26 to 28. FIG. 27 (a) is a perspective view showing an example of a drug classification device (1), and (b) is a schematic plan view showing said example. FIGS. 28 (a) and (b) are drawings for explaining the upper space (US).

[0431] As shown in FIG. 27 (a) and (b), the drug classification device (1) of the present embodiment is equipped with an obstacle detection mechanism (22) and a reflective mirror (23).

[0432] The obstacle detection mechanism (22) detects whether any obstacle is placed in the drug classification area (2). Specifically, the obstacle detection mechanism (22) functions as an object detection unit that detects an obstacle (object) present in the upper space (US) (see FIG. 28) of the classification cup (141) placed (correctly placed) in the second receiving part (14) in a defined state. As shown in FIG. 27 (a), the obstacle detection mechanism (22) is formed at one end of the drug classification device (1) (base (19)).

[0433] The obstacle detection mechanism (22) is equipped with a light source (e.g., a laser light source) that emits light into an upper space (US) and a sensor that receives the light emitted from the light source. When an obstacle is placed in the upper space (US), the sensor detects that an obstacle is placed in the upper space (US) by becoming unable to receive the light emitted by the light source.

[0434] The reflective mirror (23) is formed at a position (other end) opposite the obstacle detection mechanism (22) and reflects the light emitted by the obstacle detection mechanism (22) toward the obstacle detection mechanism (22). When there is no obstacle in the upper space (US), the sensor of the obstacle detection mechanism (22) receives the light emitted from the light source of the obstacle detection mechanism (22) and reflected by the reflective mirror (23). On the other hand, when there is an obstacle in the upper space (US), the sensor cannot receive the light emitted from the light source and reflected by the reflective mirror (23). At this time, the obstacle detection mechanism (22) detects the obstacle present in the upper space (US). In short, the object presence determination unit (72) determines that there is no obstacle in the upper space (US) when the obstacle detection mechanism (22) receives light, and determines that there is an obstacle when it does not receive light.

[0435] Additionally, the obstacle detection mechanism (22) moves in a horizontal direction under the control of the drive control unit (71) (or the conveying control unit (61), the classification control unit (62), and the distribution control unit (74)). As shown in FIG. 27 (b), in this embodiment, the obstacle detection mechanism (22) moves in the y-axis direction (a straight line connecting the extraction side and the inner side of the drug in the drug classification device (1)). Accordingly, the reflective mirror (23) is formed to extend in the y-axis direction at the other end.

[0436] In this way, by making the obstacle detection mechanism (22) movable in a predetermined direction, obstacles present in the upper space (US) can be detected throughout the entire second receiving part (14) without forming multiple obstacle detection mechanisms or forming a single obstacle detection mechanism that extends in a predetermined direction. In short, an obstacle detection mechanism can be prepared at a low cost.

[0437] Additionally, the drug classification device (1) is equipped with an imaging unit (13). Accordingly, a reflective mirror (23) is formed on the inner side of the casing (wall surface) of the drug classification device (1) facing the obstacle detection mechanism (22) and on the imaging unit (13). Each reflective mirror (23) has a curved shape, as shown in (b) of FIG. 27. By making the end (23a) curved in this way, it is possible to avoid the false detection of obstacles that may occur when the end (23a) is non-curved.

[0438] As shown in FIG. 28 (a), the upper space (US) is, for example, the space between the bottom of the drug transporter (120) (the lowest surface facing the base (19)) and the top surface of the sorting cup (141) when properly placed on the base (19).

[0439] The sorting cup (141) is detachably placed in the second receiving portion (14). Therefore, as shown in FIG. 28 (b), the sorting cup (141) may not be placed correctly and may be placed obliquely with respect to the base (19). Also, the state shown in FIG. 28 (a) is the state in which the entire sorting cup (141) is placed correctly. In short, the state in which the uppermost surface of the sorting cup (141) is placed so that it is approximately horizontal is the state in which the sorting cup (141) is placed correctly.

[0440] The obstacle detection mechanism (22) detects as an obstacle a part of the sorting cup (141) that protrudes beyond the top surface (upper surface) of the sorting cup (141) when it is placed correctly on the base (19), when the sorting cup (141) is not placed correctly and is placed obliquely with respect to the base (19). At this time, since the obstacle detection mechanism (22) is not receiving the emitted light, the object presence determination unit (72) determines that an obstacle exists in the upper space (DA). In this case, the display control unit (67) informs the user to remove the obstacle (e.g., place the sorting cup (141) correctly). Also, the drive control unit (71) (or the transport control unit (61), the sorting control unit (62), the distribution control unit (74)) stops the drug transport unit (120) that is in a moving state.

[0441] In this way, by means of the obstacle detection mechanism (22) and the object presence determination unit (72), the presence of an obstacle in the upper space (US) prevents the tip of the drug transport unit (120) from colliding with the obstacle when moving, thereby preventing the drug transport unit (120) or the obstacle (e.g., sorting cup (141)) from being damaged.

[0442] Additionally, the obstacle detection mechanism (22) detects, for example, the drug protruding from the top surface of the waiting tray (15) or sorting cup (141) as an obstacle when the drug is stacked and protrudes from the top surface. In short, the obstacle detection mechanism (22) also functions as a mechanism for detecting the drug that protrudes from the top surface among the drugs contained in the waiting tray (15) or sorting cup (141). In this case, the display control unit (67) informs the user that the waiting tray (15) or sorting cup (141) is filled with drugs. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the drug from protruding outside of the waiting tray (15) or sorting cup (141).

[0443] In addition, it is not necessary to install a reflective mirror (23). In this case, the obstacle detection mechanism (22) detects an obstacle in the upper space (US) when it receives light emitted by the magnetic structure (in other words, when it receives light that has been reflected by an obstacle). In other words, the object presence determination unit (72) determines that an obstacle exists in the upper space (US).

[0444] <Positioning operation of the drug return unit>

[0445] Next, using FIGS. 26 and FIGS. 29, the positioning operation of the drug transport unit (120) performed during the operation of the drug classification device (1) will be described. FIGS. 29 (a) to (d) are drawings for explaining the positioning operation of the drug transport unit (120).

[0446] In this embodiment, the obstacle detection mechanism (22) has two obstacle detection units. One obstacle detection unit is equipped with a light source (22a1) and a sensor (22b1), and the other obstacle detection unit is equipped with a light source (22a2) and a sensor (22b2). As shown in FIG. 29 (a), the two obstacle detection units are arranged so that the light (La1 and La2) emitted from each is not irradiated onto the drug transport unit (120), and the distance (distance (D1)) is greater than the width of the drug transport unit (120). In practice, the member existing in the upper space (US) is the adsorption mechanism (122a). Therefore, the distance (D1) only needs to have a distance greater than the width of the adsorption mechanism (122a).

[0447] Additionally, the drive control unit (71) moves the obstacle detection mechanism (22) in conjunction with the movement of the drug transport unit (120). In this embodiment, the obstacle detection mechanism (22) is movable in the y-axis direction. Therefore, the obstacle detection mechanism (22) moves in conjunction with the movement of the drug transport unit (120) in the y-axis direction. Accordingly, light (La1 and La2) emitted from the obstacle detection mechanism (22) can be avoided from being irradiated onto the drug transport unit (120).

[0448] When the drug sorting device (1) starts, it performs a positioning operation on the second receiving section (14) (specifically, the sorting cup base (14a)) of the drug conveying section (120). Through this positioning operation, the control section (60b) (particularly, the sorting control section (62) and the distribution control section (74)) can accurately determine the position of a plurality of sorting cups (141) received in the second receiving section (14).

[0449] In order to perform a positioning operation, it is necessary to move the drug transport unit (120) in the direction in which each side constituting the area where the sorting cup (141) is placed extends (x-axis direction and y-axis direction). Here, one end of the drug extraction side in the second receiving unit (14) (for example, the left end when viewed from the front of the drug sorting device (1)) is set as the initial position for starting the positioning operation.

[0450] In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 29 (a), the drive control unit (71) first moves the drug transport unit (120) to an initial position and then starts a positioning operation. At this time, the drive control unit (71) turns on the obstacle detection mechanism (22) to emit light (La1) from the light source (22a1) and light (La2) from the light source (22a2), respectively. If there is no obstacle in the upper space (US), the light (La1 and La2) is reflected by the reflective mirror (23) and received by the sensor of the obstacle detection mechanism (22).

[0451] Next, as shown in FIG. 29 (a), the drive control unit (71) moves the drug transport unit (120) and the obstacle detection mechanism (22) in the y-axis direction to an extent exceeding, for example, distance (D1). In this embodiment, by this movement, the drug transport unit (120) becomes a position corresponding to the second column sorting cup (141) in the y-axis direction. In short, the drug transport unit (120) becomes a position that can move over the second column sorting cup (141) in the x-axis direction. The distance of movement in the y-axis direction is not limited to this, and it is sufficient to be a distance such that the light (La2) emitted from the light source (22a2) can detect the protrusion of the first column sorting cup (141) (the extent to which the light (La2) passes over the first column sorting cup (141)). Also, the first row of sorting cups (141) refers to the sorting cup (141) that is made of halftone dots in FIG. 29.

[0452] Here, the drive control unit (71) may move the drug transport unit (120) over the first column sorting cup (141) from the initial position and then move it in the y-axis direction. However, at the point when the drug transport unit (120) is in the initial position, as shown in FIG. 29 (a), neither the light (La1) emitted from the light source (22a1) nor the light (La2) emitted from the light source (22a2) is passing over the first column sorting cup (141). Therefore, even if either of the first column sorting cups (141) were protruding, the light (La1 and La2) would not be blocked by the protruding sorting cup (141), so the obstacle detection mechanism (22) cannot detect the sorting cup (141). Therefore, when the drug transport unit (120) is moved over the first row of sorting cups (141) from the initial position, if any of the first row of sorting cups (141) are protruding, the drug transport unit (120) collides with the protruding sorting cup (141).

[0453] As shown in FIG. 29 (a), by moving the drug transport unit (120) and the obstacle detection mechanism (22) a predetermined distance in the y-axis direction from the initial position, the object presence determination unit (72) can determine whether the drug transport unit (120) is protruding by light (La2) emitted from the light source (22a2) without moving the drug transport unit (120) over the first column sorting cup (141).

[0454] Next, as shown in FIG. 29 (b), the drive control unit (71) moves the drug transport unit (120) along the x-axis direction over the sorting cup (141) to the other end of the second receiving unit (14) (e.g., the right end when viewed from the front of the drug sorting device (1)). In this embodiment, the drug transport unit (120) moves along the x-axis direction over the second row of sorting cups (141) to the sorting cup (141) positioned at the other end. For the second row of sorting cups (141), while the drug transport unit (120) and the obstacle detection mechanism (22) are moving in the y-axis direction from the initial position, a check for protrusion is performed using light (La1) emitted from the light source (22a1). Therefore, when the protrusion of any of the second row of sorting cups (141) is detected, the movement of the drug transport unit (120) is stopped, so the drug transport unit (120) can avoid colliding with the protruding sorting cup (141).

[0455] After that, as shown in (c) and (d) of FIG. 29, the driving control unit (71) moves the drug transport unit (120) and the obstacle detection mechanism (22) along the y-axis direction over the sorting cup (141) placed on the other end, thereby ending the positioning operation.

[0456] Additionally, the drive control unit (71) stops the drug transport unit (120) and the obstacle detection unit (22) when the protrusion of any of the first column sorting cups (141) is detected while the drug transport unit (120) and the obstacle detection unit (22) are moving along the y-axis direction as shown in FIG. 29 (a). Also, when the protrusion of any of the third to seventh column sorting cups (141) is detected while the drug transport unit (120) and the obstacle detection unit (22) are moving along the y-axis direction as shown in FIG. 29 (c), the drug transport unit (120) and the obstacle detection unit (22) stop.

[0457] In this way, in the positioning operation, the drug transport unit (120) moves through the area after the light (La1 or La2) emitted from the light source (22a1 or 22a2) of the obstacle detection mechanism (22) that moves in conjunction with the drug transport unit (120) on the second receiving unit (14) has passed. Accordingly, the drug sorting device (1) can determine whether there is an obstacle in the area where the drug transport unit (120) is scheduled to move before the drug transport unit (120) moves. Therefore, collision with the protruding sorting cup (141) of the drug transport unit (120) can be avoided.

[0458] Additionally, the movement example shown in FIG. 29 is merely an example. For example, if the initial position is set so that light (La2) passes over the first column sorting cup (141), the drug transport unit (120) may move along the x-axis direction over the first column sorting cup (141) and then move along the y-axis direction over the sorting cup (141) placed on the other end.

[0459] <Check for filter blockage>

[0460] When the drug classification device (1) starts up, it checks for clogging of the filter (not shown) equipped with the adsorption mechanism (122a) by foreign substances such as dust. The filter is intended to collect foreign substances such as dust sucked up from the adsorption pad (122c).

[0461] The adsorption mechanism (122a) is equipped with a flow sensor (not shown) that detects the flow rate of air flowing through the air pipe (122b) (see FIG. 23, FIG. 31). In this case, the return control unit (61) (or classification control unit (62), distribution control unit (74)) can determine whether the drug has been adsorbed by the adsorption pad (122c) based on the change in flow rate detected by the flow sensor.

[0462] The flow rate determination unit (73) determines whether the flow rate of air in the air tube (122b) when the drug is not adsorbed is less than or equal to a first predetermined value (a predetermined flow rate). If the flow rate determination unit (73) determines that it is less than or equal to the first predetermined value, it determines that the filter is clogged. In this case, the display control unit (67) informs the user that cleaning or replacement of the filter is required because the filter is clogged. Also, the control unit (60b) stops the operation of the drug classification device (1) during startup.

[0463] In addition, if it is determined that the value is less than or equal to the first predetermined value, the display control unit (67) may inform the user that there is a problem with the adsorption pad (122c). Also, this process may be performed before the start of the drug classification process.

[0464] Additionally, the predetermined value determined by the flow rate determination unit (73) may be set in two stages: a first predetermined value and a second predetermined value. The first predetermined value is set as an indicator to determine that the filter is clogged to the extent that cleaning is required. The second predetermined value is set as an indicator to determine that the filter is not clogged to the extent that cleaning is required, but that clogging will occur in the near future to the extent that cleaning is required. Accordingly, the second predetermined value is set higher than the first predetermined value.

[0465] In this case, the flow rate determination unit (73) determines whether the flow rate of air in the air tube (122b) when the drug is not adsorbed is less than or equal to a second predetermined value. If the display control unit (67) determines that it is less than or equal to the second predetermined value, it informs the user that cleaning of the filter will be necessary in the near future. The control unit (60b) temporarily stops the operation (or drug classification processing) at startup in the drug classification device (1), but resumes the operation when the operation input unit (66) receives user input indicating a restart.

[0466] <Check for the presence of a classification cup base>

[0467] The drug sorting device (1) checks whether the sorting cup base (14a) is installed on the base (19) when it starts up. In addition, this process may be performed before the start of the drug sorting process. The sorting cup base (14a) is a receiving part that accommodates a plurality of sorting cups (141) in an arranged state, as shown in FIG. 27 (a) and (b).

[0468] FIGS. 30 (a) and (b) are drawings for explaining object detection processing using an indentation detection unit (126). The drug transport unit (120) is equipped with an indentation detection unit (126) as shown in FIGS. 30 (a) and (b). The indentation detection unit (126) detects that the adsorption mechanism (122a) is indented in a direction opposite to the direction of extension when the adsorption mechanism (122a) is extended from the drug transport unit (120) toward the base (19). In this embodiment, the indentation detection unit (126) is approximately C-shaped, and a light source (126a) and a sensor (126b) are formed on the inner side so as to face each other. The indentation detection part (126) is formed above the adsorption mechanism (122a), and also so that the adsorption mechanism (122a) can pass through its inner side.

[0469] The indentation detection unit (126) moves in conjunction with the stretching operation of the suction mechanism (122a), as shown in FIG. 30 (a). As shown in FIG. 30 (b), when the suction pad (122c) comes into contact with an object (e.g., a sorting cup base (14a)), the suction mechanism (122a) is pushed up by the force of a spring (not shown) formed in the drug transport unit (120). As a result, the sensor (126b) is unable to receive light emitted from the light source (126a). The object presence determination unit (72) determines that the tip of the suction mechanism (122a) has come into contact with the object when the sensor (126b) is unable to receive light. In short, the object presence determination unit (72) determines that when the sensor (126b) is unable to receive light, it has come into contact with an object that should exist, in short, that an object exists.

[0470] In the sorting cup base (14a), there is an area where the sorting cup (141) is not accommodated, as shown in FIG. 27 (a) and (b). Using this area, the presence or absence of the sorting cup base (14a) is determined. Hereinafter, this area is referred to as the presence or absence determination area (14aa).

[0471] The drive control unit (71) lowers the suction mechanism (122a) in the presence / absence determination area (14aa). The lowering distance at this time is set such that, when the sorting cup base (14a) is installed, the press-fit detection unit (126) can detect contact with the presence / absence determination area (14aa), and when the sorting cup base (14a) is not installed, it is set such that it does not come into contact with the base (19).

[0472] When the suction mechanism (122a) is lowered, and as a result, the suction mechanism (122a) is pushed up and the sensor (126b) can no longer receive light, the object presence determination unit (72) determines that the sorting cup base (14a) exists. On the other hand, when the suction mechanism (122a) is lowered by the above lowering distance, but the suction mechanism (122a) is not pushed up and the sensor (126b) continues to receive light, the object presence determination unit (72) determines that the sorting cup base (14a) does not exist. In this case, the display control unit (67) informs the user to install the sorting cup base (14a) on the base (19).

[0473] <Check for aspiration abnormalities>

[0474] The drug classification device (1) performs a check to see if it can normally detect adsorption when the adsorption mechanism (122a) adsorbs the drug at the time of activation. In addition, this process may be performed before the start of the drug classification process.

[0475] The flow rate determination unit (73) determines whether the flow rate of air in the air tube (122b) when the drug is not adsorbed is less than or equal to a third predetermined value. The third predetermined value may be set, for example, to the flow rate when the drug is adsorbed, which is determined in advance by an experiment, etc.

[0476] The drive control unit (71) lowers the adsorption mechanism (122a) in, for example, the presence / absence determination area (14aa) and brings it into contact with the classification cup base (14a). In this state, if the flow rate determination unit (73) determines that the drug can be adsorbed normally (in other words, the control unit (60b) can detect the adsorption of the drug normally) when it determines that the flow rate is not below the third predetermined value, it determines that the drug cannot be adsorbed normally. In this case, the display control unit (67) informs the user that the adsorption mechanism (122a) is in a state where it cannot adsorb the drug normally. If the flow rate is not below the third predetermined value, it is thought that an abnormality, such as damage to the air tube (122b) or the adsorption pad (122c), has occurred. By notifying the user, it becomes possible to identify the point of damage and carry out repairs.

[0477] <Check for the presence of a waiting tray>

[0478] The drug sorting device (1) checks whether the standby tray (15) is installed on the base (19) when it starts up. In addition, this process may be performed before the start of the drug sorting process.

[0479] The image control unit (63) captures the area where the standby tray (15) is installed using the second camera (121) provided by the drug transport unit (120). The object presence determination unit (72) determines whether the standby tray (15) is included in the image by interpreting the image captured by the image control unit (63). If the standby tray (15) is included in the image, the object presence determination unit (72) determines that the standby tray (15) is installed on the base (19). On the other hand, if the standby tray (15) is not included in the image, the object presence determination unit (72) determines that the standby tray (15) is not installed on the base (19). In this case, the display control unit (67) notifies the user to install the standby tray (15).

[0480] <Check for the presence of the return tray>

[0481] The drug sorting device (1) checks whether the recovery tray (16) is installed on the base (19) when it starts up. In addition, this process may be performed before the start of the drug sorting process.

[0482] As shown in FIG. 27 (a) and (b), protrusions (16a) protruding inward are formed at the four corners of the recovery tray (16). The object presence determination unit (72) determines whether the recovery tray (16) is installed by contacting the adsorption mechanism (122a) with any of the protrusions (16a) formed at the four corners.

[0483] This process is carried out in the same manner as the verification of the presence or absence of the sorting cup base (14a) described above. Specifically, the drive control unit (71) lowers the suction mechanism (122a) over the area where the recovery tray (16) is installed. The lowering distance at this time is set such that, when the recovery tray (16) is installed, the press-fit detection unit (126) can detect contact with the protrusion (16a), and when the recovery tray (16) is not installed, it does not come into contact with the base (19).

[0484] When the suction mechanism (122a) is lowered, and as a result, the suction mechanism (122a) is pushed up and the sensor (126b) can no longer receive light, the object presence determination unit (72) determines that the retrieval tray (16) exists. On the other hand, when the suction mechanism (122a) is lowered for the above lowering distance, but the suction mechanism (122a) is not pushed up and the sensor (126b) continues to receive light, the object presence determination unit (72) determines that the retrieval tray (16) does not exist. In this case, the display control unit (67) informs the user to install the retrieval tray (16).

[0485] <Check for the presence of the suction pad>

[0486] The drug classification device (1) checks whether the adsorption pad (122c) is mounted on the adsorption mechanism (122a) when it starts up. Additionally, this process may be performed before the start of the drug classification process. FIG. 31 is a drawing for explaining the determination of the presence or absence of the adsorption pad (122c).

[0487] The determination of whether the adsorption pad (122c) is present or absent is carried out by determining whether the flow rate of air in the air tube (122b) when the drug is not adsorbed is, for example, less than or equal to a third predetermined value. Specifically, the drive control unit (71) lowers the adsorption mechanism (122a) in, for example, the presence or absence determination area (14aa) and brings it into contact with the classification cup base (14a). In this state, if the flow rate determination unit (73) determines that it is less than or equal to the third predetermined value, it determines that the adsorption pad (122c) is attached to the adsorption mechanism (122a). On the other hand, if the flow rate determination unit (73) determines that it is not less than or equal to the third predetermined value, it determines that the adsorption pad (122c) is not attached to the adsorption mechanism (122a). In this case, the display control unit (67) informs the user to attach the suction pad (122c) to the suction mechanism (122a). Accordingly, it is possible to prevent forgetting to attach the suction pad (122c).

[0488] Here, the distance from the end of the drug transport unit (120) on the side facing the base (19) (the initial position of the adsorption mechanism (122a)) to the bottom of the sorting cup (141) correctly placed on the sorting cup base (14a) is constant. Therefore, when performing the treatment in the presence or absence determination area (14aa), the downward distance of the adsorption mechanism (122a) (the stopping position of the adsorption mechanism (122a)) can be determined with precision (e.g., in milliorders) by determining the downward distance of the adsorption mechanism (122a) starting from the position of the bottom.

[0489] Specifically, as shown in FIG. 31, the distance (D11) from the reference line (BL) defining the position of the bottom part to the surface of the sorting cup base (14a) is constant. Therefore, the distance (D12) obtained by subtracting a value (e.g., half the thickness) that takes into account the thickness of the adsorption pad (122c) from the distance (D11) is also constant. Therefore, the position separated by the distance (D12) from the reference line (BL) can be determined as the stopping position of the adsorption mechanism (122a). In short, the descending distance can be determined as the distance from the initial position of the adsorption mechanism (122a) to the said stopping position.

[0490] Accordingly, the descending distance (stopping position) can be set to a distance (position) such that when the suction pad (122c) is attached, the suction pad (122c) contacts the surface of the sorting cup base (14a), and when the suction pad (122c) is not attached, the tip of the suction mechanism (122a) does not contact the said surface.

[0491] In short, when the suction mechanism (122a) is lowered by a downward distance, as shown in FIG. 31, if the suction pad (122c) is attached, the flow rate becomes less than or equal to the third predetermined value due to the contact of the suction pad (122c) with the surface of the classification cup base (14a). On the other hand, if the suction pad (122c) is not attached, a gap (OP) is created between the tip of the suction mechanism (122a) and the surface of the classification cup base (14a), so the flow rate does not become less than or equal to the third predetermined value. Therefore, the object presence determination unit (72) can determine the presence or absence of the suction pad (122c) with good precision.

[0492] <Check for Contamination and Residual Medication on Medication Stand>

[0493] The drug sorting device (1) checks for contamination and the presence of residual drugs on the drug storage rack (133a) upon startup. Additionally, this process may be performed before the start of the drug sorting process. FIG. 32 is a perspective view showing an example of the placement positions of the illuminator (134) and the backlight (135).

[0494] In the imaging unit (13), the first irradiation unit (134a) (visible light irradiation unit; bar illumination), the second irradiation unit (134b) (visible light irradiation unit; ring illumination), and the ultraviolet light irradiation unit (134c) are arranged as shown in FIG. 32. Also, as shown in FIG. 32, a backlight (135) is formed in the receiving area (Ar1) to irradiate the drug storage stand (133a) located in the receiving area (Ar1) from below. When the adsorption mechanism (122a) adsorbs the drug placed on the drug storage stand (133a) located in the receiving area (Ar1) (in other words, when determining the adsorption position on the drug storage stand (133a)), the backlight (135) is turned on. Accordingly, the adsorption position can be determined with good precision.

[0495] The imaging control unit (63) images the drug storage area (133a) located in the receiving area (Ar1). When the imaging control unit (63) analyzes the captured image and detects an area with relatively low brightness, it determines that there is contamination in the drug storage area (133a). In this case, the display control unit (67) informs the user to clean the drug storage area (133a) because there is contamination in the drug storage area (133a). A known method, such as dynamic threshold processing, is used to detect this area with relatively low brightness.

[0496] Additionally, the imaging control unit (63) determines whether there is a drug in the drug storage unit (133a) by interpreting the captured image. The imaging control unit (63) determines that a drug is stored in the drug storage unit (133a) when, for example, the degree of agreement of the size and shape presumed to be a drug specified in advance is greater than or equal to a predetermined value. In this case, the driving control unit (71) controls the transport / sorting unit (12) to transport the drug stored in the drug storage unit (133a) to the first receiving unit (11). Therefore, it is possible to prevent the drug sorting process from starting while the drug is still stored in the drug storage unit (133a). In addition, by receiving it in the first receiving section (11), the drug in question can also be classified, and there is no need to provide a notice that the drug is placed in the drug storage area (133a).

[0497] In addition, after the presence of contamination and residual drugs in one drug storage area (133a) is checked, the presence of contamination and residual drugs in the other drug storage area (133a) is checked.

[0498] <Example of Action>

[0499] An example of operation at the time of activation (or before the start of the drug classification process) of the drug classification device (1) is described. The drive control unit (71) moves the drug transport unit (120) to an initial position to start the positioning operation, and then performs the positioning operation. When the positioning operation is completed, the drive control unit (71) moves the drug transport unit (120) to the first receiving unit (11).

[0500] The drive control unit (71) performs air sweeping treatment by the adsorption mechanism (122a) on the first receiving unit (11). Accordingly, when a drug is attached to the adsorption pad (122c), it is possible to prevent the drug classification treatment from starting while the drug is still attached. In addition, by receiving the drug attached to the adsorption pad (122c) into the first receiving unit (11), the drug can also be classified, and there is no need to provide a notification that a drug is attached to the adsorption pad (122c).

[0501] Next, the drive control unit (71) moves the drug transport unit (120) to the presence / absence determination area (14aa). At this position, each process is performed to check for the presence / absence of the sorting cup base (14a), the presence / absence of the adsorption pad (122c), the presence / absence of suction abnormalities, and the blockage of the filter.

[0502] Next, the drive control unit (71) moves the drug transport unit (120) to the waiting tray (15). Accordingly, a process to check for the presence or absence of the waiting tray (15) is performed. Next, the drive control unit (71) moves the drug transport unit (120) to the recovery tray (16). Accordingly, a process to check for the presence or absence of the recovery tray (16) is performed. Finally, the drive control unit (71) moves the drug transport unit (120) to the receiving area (Ar1). Accordingly, a process to check for contamination and residual drugs on the drug storage stand (133a) is performed.

[0503] By performing the above-described treatment at the time of activation (or before the start of the drug classification process), the drug classification device (1) can safely and reliably perform the drug classification process.

[0504] [Embodiment 17]

[0505] In this embodiment, a method for arranging drugs on a standby tray (15) is described using FIG. 33. FIG. 33 is a drawing for explaining an example of arranging drugs on a standby tray (15). In FIG. 33, the drugs (MD1 to MD5) are arranged on the standby tray (15) in that order.

[0506] It is also possible to check the status of the drug being contained in the waiting tray (15) by capturing the interior of the waiting tray (15). However, in reality, it is difficult to determine the status of the drug being contained by interpreting the captured image. Therefore, as described above, the presence of the drug protruding from the upper surface of the waiting tray (15) (a state in which the drug is fully contained) is detected by the obstacle detection mechanism (22).

[0507] Meanwhile, by the method of arranging the drugs on the waiting tray (15), it is also possible to make it difficult for the drugs to protrude from the upper surface of the waiting tray (15). As shown in FIG. 33 (a), by arranging the drugs (MD1 to MD5) so that their positions are offset, it is possible to make it difficult for the drugs to accumulate on the waiting tray (15). However, in this case, the drugs overlap each other. Thus, as shown in FIG. 33 (b), by arranging the drugs (MD1 to MD5) so that they do not overlap with at least one drug placed previously, it is possible to make it difficult for the drugs to accumulate further on the waiting tray (15). Specifically, the next drug is placed at a position spaced apart from the placed drug by a predetermined distance (e.g., about 2 mm). In addition, the placement position on the waiting tray (15) is determined by the control unit (60b).

[0508] [Embodiment 18]

[0509] In this embodiment, a method for switching and classifying adsorption methods according to the shape of the drug is described. Regarding the shape or size of the drug, in addition to the shapes or sizes of general tablets and capsules (e.g., cross-sections that are approximately circular, elliptical, or square), shapes or sizes such as those described below also exist.

[0510] (1) A semi-circular shape (a shape with one arc and two corners),

[0511] (2) A shape different from the shape of a standard tablet or capsule (e.g., a shape of a drug having a deeper cleavage line than a standard drug) (hereinafter referred to as an atypical shape),

[0512] (3) A drug that is smaller than the size of a standard tablet or capsule (hereinafter referred to as a small drug. A small drug is one that has a number of pixels in an image less than or equal to a predetermined number. That is, one in which the number of pixels included in the area of ​​the drug image in the image is less than or equal to a predetermined number of pixels).

[0513] The control unit (60b) performs an initial setting operation of lowering the adsorption mechanism (122a) while suctioning when adsorbing the drug. By controlling in this way, depending on the drug, it is possible to adsorb the drug before contacting it, thereby enabling efficient drug classification processing. However, for drugs having shapes or sizes such as (1) to (3), if the adsorption mechanism (122a) is lowered while suctioning, the drug may be thrown around before adsorption due to the airflow caused by suction, and the drug may not be adsorbed. Also, the drug may move due to the airflow, and it may not be adsorbed at an appropriate location.

[0514] Therefore, when classifying a drug having the shape or size as described above, the classification control unit (62) switches the initial setting operation to a special setting operation in which the adsorption mechanism (122a) is lowered, the adsorption pad (122c) is brought into contact with the drug (after applying pressure), and then suction is initiated. Additionally, contact with the drug can be determined by a change in flow rate.

[0515] For a drug of a different shape, information indicating that the shape of the drug is different is combined with the drug data of the drug and registered in the drug database. When the identification unit (64) determines the type of drug based on the image captured by the first camera (131), it determines whether the drug is designated as a drug of a different shape by referring to the drug database. If it is determined to be a drug of a different shape, the classification control unit (62) switches the adsorption operation from the initial setting operation to a special setting operation.

[0516] Additionally, the determination unit (64) determines the shape and size of the drug placed in the placement area (Ar2) based on the image captured by the first camera (131). As a result, if the determination unit (64) determines that the drug has a semi-crystalline shape or is a small drug, the classification control unit (62) switches the adsorption operation from the initial setting operation to a special setting operation. Additionally, if the number of pixels included in the area of ​​the drug image in the image is less than or equal to a predetermined number of pixels, it is determined to be a small drug.

[0517] In this way, for drugs having special shapes or sizes such as (1) to (3) above, by switching the adsorption operation to a special setting operation, it is possible to avoid situations where the drug cannot be adsorbed or is adsorbed at an inappropriate location.

[0518] Also, if the classification control unit (62) determines by the determination unit (64) that the drug is of the semi-tablet shape, it is acceptable to classify the semi-tablet shaped drug into the same classification cup (141).

[0519] [Embodiment 19]

[0520] In this embodiment, treatment is described for cases where multiple drugs are placed in the drug placement area (133a).

[0521] The identification unit (64) analyzes the image captured by the first camera (131) when determining the type of drug. If, by this image analysis, it is determined that there are multiple drugs in the drug storage unit (133a), the drug type identification process is stopped, and the imaging control unit (63) moves the drug storage unit (133a) from the placement area (Ar2) to the receiving area (Ar1). The return control unit (61) moves the drug return unit (120) over the receiving area (Ar1), and then, based on the image captured by the second camera (121), takes out one of the multiple drugs placed in the drug storage unit (133a) and returns it to the first receiving unit (11). The return control unit (61) repeats the process until all of the multiple drugs placed in the drug storage unit (133a) are returned to the first receiving unit (11). Then, when the return control unit (61) determines that there are no drugs in the drug storage unit (133a), it takes out one drug again from the first receiving unit (11) and places it in the drug storage unit (133a). Accordingly, the drug type determination process that was temporarily suspended is resumed.

[0522] In this way, the drug classification device (1) can reliably perform the identification of the types of drugs one by one by returning the drugs to the first receiving part (11) when multiple drugs are placed in the drug placement stand (133a).

[0523] [Embodiment 20]

[0524] In this embodiment, the configuration of a distribution mechanism (6) (distribution section) for distributing a drug stored in a second receiving section (14) is described using FIG. 34. FIG. 34 is a drawing showing an example of the configuration of the distribution mechanism (6). FIG. 34 (a) is a drawing schematically showing an example of the configuration of a part of the distribution mechanism (6). FIG. 34 (b) and (c) are drawings for explaining the opening and closing operation in the upper shutter mechanism (6d), and (d) and (e) are drawings for explaining the opening and closing operation in the lower shutter mechanism (6e).

[0525] As shown in FIG. 34 (a), the distribution mechanism (6) is equipped with a packaging hopper (6a), a heater roller (6b), a moving passage (6c), an upper shutter mechanism (6d), and a lower shutter mechanism (6e). The control of the heater roller (6b), the upper shutter mechanism (6d), and the lower shutter mechanism (6e) is performed by the distribution control unit (74).

[0526] The packaging hopper (6a) receives the drug that has passed (fallen) through the passage (6c) and guides it to the distribution area (PP) set on the heater roller (6b). Specifically, the packaging hopper (6a) guides the drug that has passed through the passage (6c) to the pre-distribution drug placement area (MPAr) where the drug is placed before being distributed by the heater roller (6b). In FIG. 34 (a), the distribution area (PP) is shown as a dotted line. The packaging hopper (6a) is shaped so that its end tapers toward the heater roller (6b) in order to place the drug near the bottom of the heater roller (6b) in the pre-distribution drug placement area (MPAr).

[0527] The heater roller (6b) distributes the drug onto the distribution sheet (PP) in batches. Specifically, the heater roller (6b) heat-fuses the distribution sheet (PP) to distribute the drug onto the distribution sheet (PP). In the drug placement area (MPAr) prior to distribution, by placing one batch of the drug onto the distribution sheet (PP), the drug can be distributed onto the distribution sheet (PP) for each batch.

[0528] Additionally, when the distribution mechanism (6) distributes the drug taken out of the sorting cup (141) classified by type, it is acceptable to distribute the entire drug stored in one sorting cup (141) as one packet. Also, when the quantity of the drug stored in the sorting cup (141) is large, it is acceptable to divide it into multiple packets of a predetermined quantity and distribute them. When dividing into multiple packets and distributing, it is acceptable to print the drug name on the distribution sheet (PP) by means of a printing mechanism (not shown) formed in the distribution mechanism (6). In this case, the distribution control unit (74) reads the drug data from the RFID of the sorting cup (141) which is the source of the drug, and prints the drug name of the drug on the distribution sheet (PP) in which the drug is distributed. Accordingly, the user can check whether a certain type of drug is distributed in each packet. In addition, the distribution mechanism (6) may be configured such that, when distributed by dividing into multiple packets, factors such as 1 / 2 and 2 / 2 are applied to each packet, allowing the user to check the total number of packets of the distributed target drug. In addition, the distribution mechanism (6) may be configured such that information such as the date or time of the classification process, or the ward where the classification process was performed, is applied to the distribution location (PP).

[0529] The passageway (6c) is formed between the drug inlet (17), into which the drug (drug to be distributed) classified by the return / sorting unit (12) is introduced, and the packaging hopper (6a), and guides the drug introduced from the drug inlet (17) to the packaging hopper (6a). In other words, the passageway (6c) connects the drug inlet (17) and the drug storage area (MPAr) before distribution, and guides the drug introduced into the drug inlet (17) to the drug storage area (MPAr) before distribution.

[0530] The upper shutter mechanism (6d) is connected to the drug inlet (17) and also functions as a drug drop prevention part that prevents the drug that is not the target of distribution injected into the drug inlet (17) from falling into the distribution mechanism (6). As shown in FIG. 34 (b), the upper shutter mechanism (6d) is equipped with an upper shutter (6da) and an upper shutter driving part (6db).

[0531] The upper shutter (6da) is an openable shutter that functions as the bottom of the drug inlet (17). The upper shutter drive unit (6db) controls the opening and closing operation of the upper shutter (6da) by driving the upper shutter (6da). Figure 34 (b) shows the upper shutter (6da) in an open state, and (c) shows the upper shutter (6da) in a closed state.

[0532] The upper shutter (6da) is normally closed and opens when the drug to be distributed is introduced into the drug inlet (17). Specifically, the distribution control unit (74) controls the return / sorting unit (12) to take the drug to be distributed out of the corresponding sorting cup (141) and return it to the drug inlet (17). After introducing the drug into the drug inlet (17), the distribution control unit (74) opens the closed upper shutter (6da) by controlling the upper shutter mechanism (6d). Accordingly, the drug introduced into the drug inlet (17) is guided to the packaging hopper (6a) through the transfer passage (6c). After a predetermined time (a time sufficient for the introduced drug to fall into the transfer passage (6c)), the distribution control unit (74) closes the open upper shutter (6da).

[0533] In this way, by forming an upper shutter mechanism (6d), it is possible to avoid the drug (drug not intended for distribution) that falls incorrectly into the drug inlet (17) during the operation of the drug classification device (1) being distributed by the distribution mechanism (6).

[0534] Additionally, the second camera (121) (drug imaging unit) is controlled by the distribution control unit (74) and images the drug injected into the drug inlet (17) before the upper shutter (6da) opens. The distribution control unit (74) stores the image captured by the second camera (121) in the memory unit (80) as evidence of distribution. Accordingly, the user can check whether the drug is being distributed correctly by using the image of the drug captured just before it is distributed by the distribution mechanism (6).

[0535] The lower shutter mechanism (6e) functions as a drug retention part that temporarily holds the drug injected from the drug injection port (17) until all of the drug included in one packet manufactured by the distribution mechanism (6) is injected from the drug injection port (17). In other words, the lower shutter mechanism (6e) prevents the drug included in one packet from being introduced into the drug storage area (MPAr) before distribution until all of the drug included in one packet is injected from the drug injection port (17). Therefore, the lower shutter mechanism (6e) (specifically, the lower shutter (6ea) described later) may be formed between the drug injection port (17) and the drug storage area (MPAr). In this embodiment, the lower shutter mechanism (6e) is formed between the packaging hopper (6a) and the moving passage (6c), but it is not limited to this and may be formed inside, for example, the packaging hopper (6a) or the moving passage (6c).

[0536] Also, as shown in FIG. 34 (e), the lower shutter mechanism (6e) is equipped with an openable lower shutter (6ea) (shutter). Additionally, the lower shutter mechanism (6e) is equipped with a lower shutter driving unit (not shown). The lower shutter driving unit controls the opening and closing operation of the lower shutter (6ea) by driving the lower shutter (6ea). FIG. 34 (d) shows the lower shutter (6ea) in an open state, and FIG. 34 (e) shows the lower shutter (6ea) in a closed state.

[0537] The lower shutter (6ea) is normally closed and opens when one packet of medication is maintained on the lower shutter (6ea). Specifically, the distribution control unit (74) opens the lower shutter (6ea) after a predetermined time has elapsed since the last medication among the multiple medications included in one packet was introduced into the medication inlet (17) and the upper shutter (6da) was opened. Accordingly, one packet of medication is collected and guided to the packaging hopper (6a) (in other words, the medication storage area before distribution (MPAr)). However, if there is only one medication included in one packet, the last medication is that medication.

[0538] Here, the memory unit (80) stores information indicating the maximum number that can be accommodated in one bag for each type of drug (or, size, shape, etc. of the drug). Specifically, for each type of drug, information indicating the maximum number that can be accommodated in one bag having a standard bag length (e.g., 80 mm) is stored. The distribution control unit (74) reads the number of drugs stored in the sorting cup (141) from the RFID of the sorting cup (141), and determines the bag length of one bag and the quantity distributed in one bag by comparing the number with the maximum number.

[0539] For example, if the distribution control unit (74) determines that the number is less than the maximum capacity, it transfers all the medicine stored in the sorting cup (141) into the medicine inlet (17) and shortens the length of the bag containing the medicine stored in the sorting cup (141) for distribution. For example, in the case of a medicine where the maximum capacity is set to 8 tablets when the standard bag length is 80 mm, if the medicine distributed in one bag is 7 tablets, the bag length is changed to 70 mm. Additionally, the bag length may be changed in stages, and in this case, it may be changed between, for example, 70 mm, 76 mm, 80 mm (standard bag length), 90 mm, and 110 mm.

[0540] Also, when the distribution control unit (74) determines that the number is equal to the maximum capacity, it puts all the medicine stored in the sorting cup (141) into the medicine inlet (17), and at the same time, the length of the bag containing the medicine stored in the sorting cup (141) is kept as the standard bag length.

[0541] Additionally, if the distribution control unit (74) determines that the number is greater than the maximum capacity, it sets the length of the bag for one pack to be greater than the standard bag length (e.g., 110 mm) and calculates the quantity of medicine that can be distributed in one pack of said bag length based on the type of medicine. Then, the calculated quantity of medicine may be fed from the sorting cup (141) to the medicine inlet (17). Also, if the user wishes to distribute as much medicine as possible into one pack (if such a setting is made), the same process may be performed.

[0542] In this way, since the distribution control unit (74) determines the quantity distributed in one packet, it can determine which drug per packet is being injected into the drug injection port (17) based on the said quantity. Additionally, the distribution control unit (74) may determine which drug per packet is being injected into the drug injection port (17) based on prescription data.

[0543] Additionally, the distribution control unit (74) executes a transfer operation of a distribution sheet (PP) at the timing when a single packet of the drug can be placed in the drug placement area (MPAr) before distribution, and after the transfer operation is completed, the distribution sheet (PP) of the single packet is heat-fused by the heater roller (6b). Accordingly, each packet of the drug can be distributed to the distribution sheet (PP).

[0544] The above predetermined time may be set to a sufficient time for the upper shutter (6da) to open and for the drug to reach the lower shutter (6ea) through the movement passage (6c). However, the distribution control unit (74) opens the lower shutter (6ea) while the transfer operation of the distribution area (PP) is stopped.

[0545] Also, the distribution control unit (74) closes the open lower shutter (6ea) after a predetermined time (a time sufficient for the medicine placed on the lower shutter (6ea) to fall into the packaging hopper (6a)).

[0546] In this way, by forming the lower shutter mechanism (6e), the timing of the placement of one packet of the drug in the drug placement area (MPAr) before distribution and the timing of the transfer operation of the distribution area (PP) can be matched. Therefore, the drug sorting device (1) can distribute one packet of the drug to the distribution area (PP) by means of the heater roller (6b).

[0547] In addition, by temporarily holding the agent by the lower shutter mechanism (6e), one packet of agent can be dropped into the pre-distribution agent placement area (MPAr) at once. Therefore, by dropping the agent one by one, the phenomenon in which the agent gets stuck between the pre-distribution agent placement area (PP) right in front of the pre-distribution agent placement area (MPAr) and cannot fall to the pre-distribution agent placement area (MPAr) can be avoided.

[0548] When the above phenomenon occurs, the position of the two distribution sheets (PP) before heat fusion may become misaligned. In this state, if the distribution sheets (PP) are heat-fused by the heater roller (6b), it results in a packaging defect, so it is necessary to redo the drug distribution. By forming the lower shutter mechanism (6e), the above phenomenon can be avoided, thus avoiding the occurrence of a packaging defect. Therefore, the drug classification device (1) can efficiently distribute the drug.

[0549] In addition, in other embodiments, the distribution mechanism (6) may have a configuration different from that described in this embodiment. As described above, for example, the packaging hopper (6a) may temporarily hold the drug introduced from the drug inlet (17). Also, the transfer passage (6c) may move the drug held in the packaging hopper (6a) to the drug storage area (MPAr) before distribution.

[0550] [Embodiment 21]

[0551] In this embodiment, the pretreatment of the distribution process is described. It is conceivable that on the upper shutter (6da) and lower shutter (6ea) shown in FIG. 34, the drug used during the previous distribution process remains as is, or that a drug not intended for distribution is placed thereon. To avoid the distribution of such drugs, the distribution control unit (74) opens the upper shutter (6da) and lower shutter (6ea) at the start of the distribution process. If a drug not intended for distribution remains on the upper shutter (6da) and lower shutter (6ea), this operation can cause the drug to fall into the drug pre-distribution placement area (MPAr). Then, the distribution control unit (74) can send the drug placed in the drug pre-distribution placement area (MPAr) to the outside of the drug classification device (1) before distributing the drug classified in the second receiving unit (14) by distributing it to the distribution area (PP).

[0552] Generally, due to device limitations, the distribution device needs to send the distribution area (PP) in a state where the drug is not distributed, at the start of the distribution process. In the distribution mechanism (6), the drug left on the upper shutter (6da) and lower shutter (6ea) can be distributed to the distribution area (PP) (empty bag) that is sent in this way. Therefore, in the distribution mechanism (6), the empty bag that occurs due to device limitations can be effectively utilized as a recovery bag for the drug.

[0553] In addition, it is acceptable to distinguish it from other bags by printing the text "Recovery Bag" on the distribution bag (PP) using a printing device. Also, it is acceptable to install an automatic line drawing device (not shown) using a pen on the distribution device (6) and draw a colored line on the bag as a marking that identifies it as a recovery bag.

[0554] [Embodiment 22]

[0555] In this embodiment, using FIG. 26 and FIG. 35, a process for dropping one drug at a time from the drug inlet (17) during distribution processing is described. FIG. 35 is a flowchart for explaining the example of the said process.

[0556] <Composition of the Drug Classification Device>

[0557] As shown in FIG. 26, the distribution control unit (74) comprises a number determination unit (741), a drug movement determination unit (742), and a distributed drug return control unit (743).

[0558] The number determination unit (741) determines the number of drugs injected into the drug injection port (17) based on an image of the inside of the drug injection port (17) captured by the second camera (121) (injection imaging unit). Specifically, the number determination unit (741) determines that there are multiple drugs in the image captured by the second camera (121), and that there are no drugs in the image captured by the second camera (121) after the drugs injected into the drug injection port (17) have been removed.

[0559] The drug transfer decision unit (742) determines the transfer of the drug from the drug inlet (17) to the distribution mechanism (6) when the number determination unit (741) determines that there is only one drug in the drug inlet (17). When the drug transfer decision unit (742) determines the transfer, it drives the upper shutter drive unit (6db) to open the upper shutter (6da). Accordingly, the drug can be transferred to the distribution mechanism (6) only when there is only one drug in the drug inlet (17). In short, the drug can be dropped one by one from the drug inlet (17).

[0560] The distribution agent return control unit (743) returns the agent stored in the second receiving unit (14) to the agent inlet (17) by controlling the return / classification unit (12). Additionally, the distribution agent return control unit (743) returns the agent to the second receiving unit (17) when it is determined that the image captured by the second camera (121) contains multiple agents, or when the agent inserted into the agent inlet (17) is removed and the image captured by the second camera (121) again contains agents.

[0561] In this case, the distribution agent return control unit (743) returns one of the multiple agents introduced into the agent inlet (17) to the sorting cup (141) from which the agent was taken. Specifically, the distribution agent return control unit (743) returns the agent taken from the agent inlet (17) to the sorting cup (141) from which the agent was taken in order to re-image the agent inlet (17). The distribution agent return control unit (743) repeats the agent return operation until the agent introduced into the agent inlet (17) becomes one. Accordingly, even if multiple agents are introduced into the agent inlet (17), the number of agents present in the agent inlet (17) can be reduced to one before dropping the agents from the agent inlet (17) to the distribution mechanism (6).

[0562] <Processing of drug sorting devices>

[0563] As shown in FIG. 35, the distribution agent return control unit (743) injects the agent to be distributed into the agent inlet (17) (S31). The distribution control unit (74) captures the inside of the agent inlet (17) after the agent is injected by controlling the second camera (121) (S32). The count determination unit (741) determines whether a plurality of agents are included in the image by interpreting the image captured by the second camera (121) (S33).

[0564] If the number determination unit (741) determines that the image does not contain multiple drugs (No in S33), the drug transfer determination unit (742) determines the transfer of drugs from the drug inlet (17) to the distribution mechanism (6). In short, in this case, the drug transfer determination unit (742) controls the upper shutter mechanism (6d) to open the upper shutter (6da) (S36).

[0565] Meanwhile, if the number determination unit (741) determines that the image contains multiple drugs (e.g., in S33), the drug movement determination unit (742) keeps the upper shutter (6da) closed. In this case, the distribution control unit (74) removes the drugs injected into the drug inlet (17) (S34), and in this state, controls the second camera (121) to re-image the inside of the drug inlet (17). Then, the number determination unit (741) determines whether the image contains drugs by interpreting the image re-imaged by the second camera (121) (S35).

[0566] If the number determination unit (741) determines that the image does not contain any drug (e.g., in S35), the drug transfer determination unit (742) determines the transfer of the drug from the drug inlet (17) to the distribution mechanism (6). In short, the drug transfer determination unit (742) controls the upper shutter mechanism (6d) to open the upper shutter (6da) by treating the drug injected into the drug inlet (17) as one (S36).

[0567] Meanwhile, if the number determination unit (741) determines that the image contains a drug (No in S35), the drug transfer determination unit (742) assumes that there are multiple drugs injected into the drug inlet (17) and keeps the upper shutter (6da) closed. In this case, the distribution drug return control unit (743) returns the drug taken out in S34 to the sorting cup (141) from which the drug was taken out (S37). After that, it returns to the processing of S32.

[0568] In S34, the return / sorting unit (12) takes out one drug that has been injected into the drug injection port (17). Therefore, if there are multiple drugs injected into the drug injection port (17), at least one drug remains in the drug injection port (17) even after the drugs have been removed in S34. On the other hand, if there is only one drug injected into the drug injection port (17), there is no drug in the drug injection port (17) after the drugs have been removed in S34.

[0569] Even if it is determined in S33 that the captured image contains multiple drugs, in S35, the captured image (the image after one drug has been removed) may be determined not to contain any drugs. This is because, depending on the type of drug (shape such as an imprint), there may be cases where the image processing result determines that there are two drugs even though the captured result is one drug. In this case, since there is only one drug injected into the drug inlet (17), the drug movement determination unit (742) opens the upper shutter (6da) and guides the drug to the distribution mechanism (6).

[0570] Meanwhile, in S35, if the captured image (image after one drug has been removed) contains drugs, it is certain that multiple drugs have been introduced into the drug inlet (17). Therefore, by returning the removed drugs to the sorting cup (141), the number of drugs introduced into the drug inlet (17) can be reduced. Also, even if three or more drugs have been introduced into the drug inlet (17), by repeating the process described above, the number of drugs in the drug inlet (17) can be reduced to one and guided to the distribution mechanism (6).

[0571] In this way, the drug classification device (1) can avoid sending multiple drugs simultaneously from the drug inlet (17) to the distribution device (6). Also, due to the precision of image processing, even if it is incorrectly determined in image processing that two drugs exist when only one drug is actually injected into the drug inlet (17), it can ultimately determine that there is only one and send that one drug to the distribution device (6). In short, in the event of an incorrect determination, the drug is not returned to the classification cup (141) from the drug inlet (17), nor is a notification to the user that multiple drugs exist in the drug inlet (17).

[0572] [Embodiment 23]

[0573] In this embodiment, the process of checking the residue of a sorting cup (141) is described using FIG. 26 and FIG. 36. FIG. 36 is a drawing showing an example of a residue checking image (Im10).

[0574] As shown in FIG. 26, the classification control unit (62) is equipped with a storage determination unit (621) and an information memory control unit (622).

[0575] The storage determination unit (621) determines whether a drug is stored in the sorting cup (141) based on an image of the inside of the sorting cup (141) captured by the second camera (121) (container imaging unit). The image that the storage determination unit (621) analyzes is the inside of an unused sorting cup (141) captured by the second camera (121) before the transport / sorting unit (12) sorts the drug. In short, the storage determination unit (621) determines whether a drug is stored in the sorting cup (141) when the unused sorting cup (141) is determined as the sorting location for the drug.

[0576] When the storage determination unit (621) determines that a drug is stored in the classification cup (141), the information memory control unit (622) stores storage information indicating that a drug is stored in the classification cup (141) by combining it with container identification information for identifying the classification cup (141). Specifically, the information memory control unit (622) stores the storage information in an RFID tag formed on the classification cup (141) determined by the storage determination unit (621) to be stored in the drug. Accordingly, the storage information and container identification information are stored in the RFID tag in a combined state. However, it does not matter if the storage information and container identification information are stored in the memory unit (80).

[0577] In this way, the drug classification device (1) can determine that the classification cup (141) is not in an unused state by combining and storing information and container identification information when a drug is stored in an unused classification cup (141). Therefore, the drug classification device (1) can avoid classifying the drug in the classification cup (141). Also, the drug classification device (1) can determine the storage location of the classification cup (141) even if the storage location of the classification cup (141) is changed in the second receiving section (14).

[0578] Additionally, the classification control unit (62) stops the drug classification process for the classification cup (141) when it is determined by the storage determination unit (621) that the drug is stored in the classification cup (141). Then, the classification control unit (62) returns the drug adsorbed by the return / classification unit (12) to the first receiving unit (11). Also, in this case, the classification control unit (62) may determine another unused classification cup (141) as the classification location and classify the drug in the classification cup (141).

[0579] Also, as shown in FIG. 26, the distribution control unit (74) is equipped with a storage determination unit (744) and an information memory control unit (745). The storage determination unit (744) and the information memory control unit (745) each have the same function as the storage determination unit (621) and the information memory control unit (622). However, the image that the storage determination unit (744) analyzes is the interior of the sorting cup (141) captured by the second camera (121) after the transport / sorting unit (12) has sent out all the drugs stored in the sorting cup (141) to the distribution mechanism (6).

[0580] Also, the display control unit (67) displays a residual drug confirmation image (Im10) as shown in FIG. 36. The residual drug confirmation image (Im10) displays a storage status, such as whether the drug classified by the classification control unit (62) is stored, along with the classification status of the drug for the second receiving unit (14).

[0581] As shown in FIG. 36, in this embodiment, the remaining medicine confirmation image (Im10) displays the storage status by displaying the image of each sorting cup (141) and the frame line of the image of each sorting cup (141) by color. For example, the display control unit (67) (1) makes the frame line of the image of an unused sorting cup (141) blue, and (2) makes the frame line of the image of a sorting cup (141) in which medicine classified by the sorting control unit (62) is stored green. Also, the display control unit (67) (3) makes the frame line of the image of the sorting cup (141) red when medicine is stored in an unused sorting cup (141) (in short, displays "remaining medicine present" for the sorting cup (141)). In addition, in FIG. 36, the frame line in case (1) is represented as a dotted line, the frame line in case (2) as a double line, and the frame line in case (3) as a thick line.

[0582] In a classification cup (141) in which a drug classified by a classification control unit (62) is stored, drug data of the drug is stored in an RFID tag. Accordingly, the display control unit (67) can identify the classification cup (141) in which drug data is stored in an RFID tag as the classification cup (141) in which a drug classified by a classification control unit (62) is stored.

[0583] In addition, for an unused sorting cup (141) in which medicine is stored, storage information is stored in an RFID tag. Therefore, the display control unit (67) can identify the sorting cup (141) in which storage information is stored in an RFID tag as an unused sorting cup (141) in which medicine is stored.

[0584] Additionally, the display control unit (67) can identify a sorting cup (141) in which drug data and storage information are not stored in the RFID tag as an unused sorting cup (141) in which no drug is stored (where drugs can be sorted).

[0585] In this way, the display control unit (67) (notification control unit) notifies the user of the fact when the storage determination unit (621) determines that the drug is stored in the unused classification cup (141). Accordingly, the user is able to check the unused classification cup (141) in which the drug is stored.

[0586] In addition, regarding the unused sorting cup (141) in which the medicine is stored, the medicine is not sorted (it is not determined as the sorting location of the medicine) until the user performs a clear operation. In short, the sorting control unit (62) detects that the user has taken out the sorting cup (141), and the operation input unit (66) receives user input indicating that the user has completed visual inspection of the sorting cup (141), and only then does it recognize the sorting cup (141) as a target for sorting the medicine.

[0587] Additionally, when user input for checking the remaining medicine is received, the control unit (60b) captures the interior of each sorting cup (141) with the second camera (121). In this case, the control unit (60b) may check the remaining medicine of each sorting cup (141) based on whether the medicine is contained in the image of each sorting cup (141) and whether the medicine data is stored in the RFID tag of each sorting cup (141).

[0588] In this case, for example, the display control unit (67) displays the frame line of the image in green when the image contains a drug and drug data is stored in the RFID tag. Likewise, the display control unit (67) displays the frame line of the image in blue when the image does not contain a drug and drug data is not stored in the RFID tag. Also, the display control unit (67) displays the frame line of the image in red when the image contains a drug and drug data is not stored in the RFID tag.

[0589] Additionally, the display control unit (67) displays the status of drug classification for the second receiving unit (14) and the status of drug extraction from the classification cup (141) by the distribution control unit (74) as a residual drug confirmation image. For example, if the display control unit (67) has drug stored in the classification cup (141) after all the drug has been removed by the distribution control unit (74), the frame line of the image of the classification cup (141) is made a different color (e.g., red) from that of the other classification cup (141). In short, the display control unit (67) displays "remaining drug" for the classification cup (141). The display control unit (67) can identify the classification cup (141) in which storage information is stored in an RFID tag as the "remaining drug" classification cup (141).

[0590] [Embodiment 24]

[0591] In this embodiment, a function that assists in cleaning the medicine storage rack (133a) by the user is described.

[0592] When user input is received to check the status of the drug storage unit (133a), the driving control unit (71) moves the drug transport unit (120) over the receiving area (Ar1). After that, the imaging control unit (63) illuminates the backlight (135) and captures one drug storage unit (133a) using the second camera (121). When the imaging control unit (63) completes capturing the one drug storage unit (133a), it moves the other drug storage unit (133a) to the receiving area (Ar1) and then captures the drug storage unit (133a). The display control unit (67) displays images of the two drug storage units (133a). Accordingly, the user can check the condition (degree of contamination) of the medicine storage area (133a).

[0593] Additionally, when the user cleans the drug storage unit (133a), the user selects the drug storage unit (133a) to be cleaned from the two drug storage units (133a). When user input to select the drug storage unit (133a) to be cleaned is received, the control unit (60b) positions the drug storage unit (133a) in the receiving area (Ar1). After that, the control unit (60b) releases the lock of the opening and closing shutter. Accordingly, the user can easily take out the drug storage unit (133a) selected as the cleaning target and clean it.

[0594] It is also possible for the user to manually rotate the drug storage unit (133a) to move the drug storage unit (133a) to be cleaned to the receiving area (Ar1). However, in this case, depending on the position where the drug storage unit (133a) is held or the inclination of the drug storage unit (133a) during rotation, there is a possibility that the drug storage unit (133a) may be damaged. As described above, damage to the drug storage unit (133a) can be avoided by automatically moving the drug storage unit (133a) to be cleaned to the receiving area (Ar1) (by control of the control unit (60b)).

[0595] [Embodiment 25]

[0596] In this embodiment, treatment of similar drugs is described using FIGS. 26 and FIGS. 37. FIGS. 37 (a) is a drawing showing an example of a similar drug display image (Im11), and (b) is a drawing showing an example of a similar drug selection image (Im12).

[0597] The identification unit (64) identifies the type of drug based on an image captured by the first camera (131). At this time, if the identification unit (64) determines that the drug included in the image is similar to an image of a drug registered in the drug database, it identifies the drug to be identified and the drug registered in the drug database as similar drugs. The similarity determination is performed based on whether the characteristics of the drug extracted from the image for determining the type of drug are similar to the characteristics of the drug registered in the drug database. The similarity determination criteria may be set in advance through experiments, etc.

[0598] When determining the type of drug, the determination unit (64) compares the characteristics of the drug extracted from the image with the characteristics of all drugs registered in the drug database (including the characteristics of drugs registered in the similar drug list described later). As a result, if the determination unit (64) determines that the drug is not registered in the drug database (presumed drug), it determines whether there is a drug among the drugs registered in the drug database that has characteristics similar to the characteristics of the presumed drug.

[0599] When the determination unit (64) determines that there are drugs with similar characteristics, it identifies the drug with similar characteristics registered in the drug database as a similar drug, in addition to the characteristics of the estimated drug that is the subject of the type determination. Then, the determination unit (64) registers the drug data of the estimated drug in the drug database, and at the same time, combines the drug data of the two drugs identified as similar drugs as similar drugs and registers these drugs in the similar drug list. The similar drug list is a list indicating which drugs among the drugs registered in the drug database are similar to each other.

[0600] Additionally, the determination unit (64) determines the adopted (designated) drug data as the drug data of the similar drug when the operation input unit (66) receives a user input intended to adopt the drug data of any drug among the drugs specified as similar drugs. In this case, when the determination unit (64) determines the type of drug, for the similar drugs, only the designated drug data is subject to comparison with the drug data of the drug being determined. In other words, if there is no designation of drug data of the similar drug, all of the drug data of each drug specified as a similar drug is subject to comparison with the drug data of the drug being determined.

[0601] Additionally, the determination unit (64) deletes the drug data from the drug database when the operation input unit (66) receives user input intended to delete the drug data of any drug among the drugs specified as similar drugs. As a result, drugs for which similar drugs no longer exist in the drug database are excluded from the list of similar drugs.

[0602] Additionally, the classification control unit (62) stores drugs that are registered in the similar drug list in the same classification cup (141). The display control unit (67) displays information indicating that a similar drug is stored in the classification cup (141) in which the similar drug is stored, in an image displaying the classification status of the drugs for the second receiving unit (14). For example, the display control unit (67) displays "similar drug" for the classification cup (141) in the image. However, if only one drug data is designated as the drug data for the similar drug, the display control unit (67) displays the drug name indicated by the drug data instead of displaying "similar drug."

[0603] As described above, for presumed drugs similar to drugs registered in the drug database, by storing them in the same classification cup (141) as the drugs, the user can perform a visual inspection of the presumed drugs together with the drugs.

[0604] In addition, even if the drugs are of the same type, they may be determined to have different characteristics depending on changes in the distributor (or manufacturer) or the date of sale (new or old). For example, if the distributor has changed, the imprint information obtained from the image may be the same, but the YJ code may be different. Therefore, if the YJ code after the change of distributor for such drugs is not registered in the drug database, there is a possibility that the drugs will not be stored in the same classification cup (141) as the drugs having the YJ code before the change of distributor. For drugs presumed to be similar to drugs registered in the drug database, by storing them in the same classification cup (141) as the drugs, it is possible to avoid storing drugs of substantially the same type in a separate classification cup (141). In addition, such drugs can be classified more safely by prompting a visual inspection.

[0605] <Specific Example>

[0606] For example, the drug data of three types of drugs having the imprints (features) “10”, “8”, and “XYZ” are registered in the drug database stored in the memory unit (80). Also, the drug data of the drug to be identified as a type has the imprint (feature) “B” or “13”. Also, the identification unit (64) determines whether the imprints are similar to each other as a result of interpreting the image, and also determines that the imprints “8” and “B”, or the imprints “B” and “13” are similar. Als...

Claims

Claim 1 A drug classification device comprising: a first receiving section for receiving multiple types of drugs; a second receiving section for receiving the drugs in a classified state by type; an imaging section for capturing a drug removed from the first receiving section; a determination section for determining the type of the drug based on an image captured by the imaging section; a classification section for storing the drugs by type in the second receiving section based on the determination result by the determination section; a drug storage stand for placing the drugs in the imaging area of ​​the imaging section; and a shaking mechanism for determining the size and shape of the drug from an image captured of the drug placed on the drug storage stand, and shaking the drug storage stand according to the magnitude of the vibration and the number of vibrations per unit time associated with the determined size and shape of the drug. Claim 2 A first receiving unit for receiving multiple types of drugs; a second receiving unit for receiving the drugs classified by type; a temporary receiving unit for temporarily storing drugs that could not be received in the second receiving unit; an imaging unit for capturing a drug removed from the first receiving unit; a discrimination unit for determining the type of the drug by comparing the image captured by the imaging unit with drug data regarding multiple registered types of drugs; a classification control unit for determining the classification position of the drug based on the discrimination result by the discrimination unit, and storing the determined classification position and the drug data used for comparison by the discrimination unit in a memory unit by combining them; and a second discrimination unit for determining the type of the drug by comparing the image of the drug removed from the temporary receiving unit and captured by the imaging unit with all registered drug data, without comparing it with all drug data, but only with the drug data combined in the temporary receiving unit as the determined classification position among all drug data. Drug sorting device. Claim 3 A drug classification device according to claim 1, wherein the discrimination unit identifies drug data having a degree of agreement with a predetermined value or greater as a result of comparing the characteristics of a drug extracted from an image captured by the imaging unit with drug data regarding a plurality of registered types of drugs, and identifies the drug data as candidate data for identifying the type of drug, and identifies the type of drug by comparing the characteristics of the drug extracted from an image captured by the imaging unit again with the candidate data. Claim 4 A drug classification device comprising: a first receiving section for receiving multiple types of drugs; a second receiving section for receiving the drugs in a classified state by type; an imaging section for capturing a drug removed from the first receiving section; a determination section for determining the type of the drug based on an image captured by the imaging section; a classification section for storing the drugs by type in the second receiving section based on the determination result by the determination section; a distribution section for distributing the drugs stored in the second receiving section; a drug input section connected to the distribution section and into which the drug to be distributed, classified by the classification section, is introduced; and a drug fall prevention section that functions as the bottom of the drug input section and prevents the drug not to be distributed from falling into the distribution section by providing a shutter that opens when the drug to be distributed is introduced into the drug input section. Claim 5 A drug classification device according to claim 4, comprising a drug imaging unit that images a drug injected into the drug injection unit before the shutter is opened. Claim 6 A drug classification device comprising: a first receiving section for receiving multiple types of drugs; a second receiving section for receiving the drugs in a classified state by type; an imaging section for capturing a drug removed from the first receiving section; a determination section for determining the type of the drug based on an image captured by the imaging section; a classification section for storing the drugs by type in the second receiving section based on the determination result by the determination section; a distribution section for distributing the drugs classified by the classification section; a drug input section connected to the distribution section and into which the drugs classified by the classification section are introduced; a closable shutter formed between the drug input section and a drug storage area prior to distribution in the distribution section; and a drug retention section for temporarily maintaining the drugs introduced from the drug input section until all of the drugs included in one package manufactured in the distribution section are introduced from the drug input section. Claim 7 A drug classification device comprising: a first receiving section for receiving multiple types of drugs; a second receiving section for receiving the drugs classified by type; an imaging section for capturing a drug removed from the first receiving section; a determination section for determining the type of the drug based on an image captured by the imaging section; a classification section for storing the drugs by type in the second receiving section based on the determination result by the determination section; a classification container detachably disposed in the second receiving section and storing the drugs classified by the classification section; and an object detection section for detecting an object existing in the upper space of the classification container placed in the second receiving section in a specified state by moving in a horizontal direction; wherein the object detection section comprises a light source and a sensor that receives light emitted from the light source and moves in conjunction with the movement of the classification section; and wherein the classification section moves in an area above the second receiving section after the light emitted from the light source has passed. Claim 8 A drug sorting device according to claim 7, comprising a temporary receiving section for temporarily storing drugs that could not be accommodated in the second receiving section, and the object detection section detects drugs protruding from the upper surface of the temporary receiving section among the drugs temporarily stored in the temporary receiving section. Claim 9 A first receiving unit for receiving multiple types of drugs; a second receiving unit for receiving the drugs in a classified state by type; an imaging unit for capturing a drug removed from the first receiving unit; a determination unit for determining the type of the drug based on an image captured by the imaging unit; a classification unit for storing the drugs by type in the second receiving unit based on the determination result by the determination unit; a classification container detachably disposed in the second receiving unit and storing the drugs classified by the classification unit; a container imaging unit for capturing the interior of an unused classification container before the classification unit classifies the drugs, or the interior of the classification container after all the drugs stored in the classification container have been sent out to a distribution unit for distributing the drugs; a storage determination unit for determining whether the drugs are stored in the classification container based on an image captured by the container imaging unit; and when it is determined by the storage determination unit that the drugs are stored in the classification container, the classification A drug classification device having an information storage control unit that stores storage information indicating that the above drug is stored in a container, combined with container identification information for identifying the classification container. Claim 10 A drug classification device according to claim 9, comprising a notification control unit that indicates when it is determined by the storage determination unit that the drug is stored in the classification container.

Images