Data Management System

Abstract

The present invention relates to a data management system and provides a data management system capable of more strictly satisfying the requirements for concurrency in stored data. A control device (130) and a processing decision device (140) are equipped with a local clock unit (150) and a local memory unit (160). The time of each local clock unit (150) is modified based on reference time information from a reference time generation unit (122). Whenever data occurs, data and data occurrence time information are stored in the local memory unit (160). The data and data occurrence time information stored in the local memory unit (160) are transmitted to a data storage server (120) and stored in the main memory unit (121). As a result, the time indicated by each local clock unit (150) becomes nearly identical, and the time of occurrence of the data stored in the main memory unit (121) becomes more accurate. Consequently, the requirements for concurrency in the stored data can be more strictly satisfied.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a system for storing and managing data based on the operation of a production-related device. Background Technology

[0002] Conventionally, various production-related devices are used at product manufacturing sites. For example, in production lines for blister sheets (e.g., PTP sheets) generally used in fields such as pharmaceuticals or food products, blister packaging machines, accumulating devices, and packaging devices are used as production-related devices. A blister packaging machine is equipped with means for forming a pocket portion in a container film, means for receiving contents (e.g., tablets) in the pocket portion, and means for attaching a cover film to the container film, and manufactures blister sheets. An accumulating device accumulates the manufactured blister sheets in units of multiple sheets. A packaging device performs processing on the accumulated multiple blister sheets, such as band binding, pillow packaging, or box packaging. In addition, inspection devices for determining the quality of contents, sheets, or packaging may be installed on the blister packaging machine or packaging device. Such inspection devices can also be considered production-related devices.

[0003] Furthermore, if product defects are discovered during production, the problematic process, the time of occurrence of the defect, the number of defective products manufactured, and various setting information related to manufacturing (e.g., temperature or pressure) are investigated from the perspective of preventing recurrence. To conduct such an investigation, it is necessary to preserve various data related to manufacturing. Considering the ease of investigation, it is desirable to preserve this data in the form of electronic data. However, since electronic data is easily altered or deleted, it is necessary to take measures to guarantee the integrity of the information.

[0004] The guidelines established by the FDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administration) (ALCOA Principles) are known as guidelines for ensuring data integrity. The ALCOA Principles define five requirements. The first requirement is attributable, the second is legible, the third is contemporaneous, the fourth is original, and the fifth is accurate. In particular, contemporaneous refers to the immediate retrieval of data at the time of its occurrence (when processing is executed), and to satisfy contemporaneous, it is necessary to store the time of data occurrence.

[0005] Recently, in order to strictly comply with the third requirement (concurrency) described above, a system has been proposed that includes a control processing means (processing means), a data storage server (computer for the server), a network (information access means), and an operation regulation means, and that when the control processing means, the network, or the data storage server is not functioning, the operation of the device (e.g., the production-related device described above) is regulated, and at the same time, the data is stored only in the data storage server along with the time of occurrence (e.g., see Patent Document 1 et al.).

[0006] In this system, the control processing means performs control processing according to the operation of the device, and the network performs information transfer between the control processing means and the data storage server. Additionally, a processing application for driving the device is stored in the control processing means, while configuration information for executing this processing application is stored in the data storage server. Therefore, if there is a malfunction in the network or the data storage server, the control processing means becomes unable to read the configuration information from the data storage server, and the operation (specifically, startup) of the device is restricted. Consequently, if there is a malfunction in the network, the data storage server, or the control processing means, no data to be stored is generated, and as a result, the data stored in the data storage server along with the time becomes data without omissions that satisfies the concurrency requirement. Prior art literature

[0007] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Publication No. 6762593 The problem to be solved

[0008] However, in the above system, once the device has started, if an abnormality occurs in the data storage server or the network, the data storage server becomes unable to store data. Therefore, while one might consider stopping the device when an abnormality occurs, the device cannot be stopped because data resulting from the device's shutdown cannot be stored in the data storage server. On the other hand, even if one attempts to continue operating the device, it cannot be operated continuously because the data currently in operation cannot be stored in the data storage server.

[0009] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above circumstances, and its purpose is to provide a data management system that can store data even when an abnormality occurs in a data storage server or network, while simultaneously satisfying the requirements for concurrency more strictly regarding the stored data. means of solving the problem

[0010] Below, each means suitable for solving the above-mentioned objective is explained in separate sections. Additionally, specific effects specific to the corresponding means are noted as necessary.

[0011] Means 1. A data management system that manages data according to the operation of a plurality of production-related devices,

[0012] A local clock means for measuring time and a local memory means capable of storing said data, and a plurality of control processing devices installed for each of the plurality of said production-related devices and performing control processing according to the corresponding said production-related device, and

[0013] A reference time generation means configured to generate a reference time and, together with, transmit reference time information which is information according to the reference time, and

[0014] It has a main memory means capable of storing the above data, and a data storage server installed separately from the control processing device,

[0015] The above reference time generation means can transmit the reference time information to the control processing device through a predetermined network at predetermined time intervals or based on a predetermined request, and

[0016] The above control processing device is,

[0017] The time in the local clock means can be modified based on the reference time information transmitted from the reference time generating means through the above network, and

[0018] Whenever the above data occurs, data occurrence time information, which is information based on the data and the time indicated by the local clock means at the time when the data occurred, can be stored in the local memory means, and

[0019] The data stored in the local storage means and the data occurrence time information can be transmitted to the data storage server through the network, and

[0020] It is possible to verify that the above data storage server and the above network are functioning, and

[0021] Based on the condition that the above data storage server and the above network are functioning, the corresponding above production-related device can be started, and

[0022] A data management system characterized in that the above data storage server is capable of storing the data transmitted from the control processing device through the network and the data occurrence time information in the main memory means.

[0023] Furthermore, "data" refers to operation information regarding production-related equipment (start, stop, change of settings, etc.) or status information indicating the status of production-related equipment. For example, if the production-related equipment is a blister packaging machine for manufacturing blister sheets, the status information refers to the filling speed of contents into the pocket, the heating temperature or applied pressure when heat-sealing the cover film to the container film, and information on the occurrence of errors. Furthermore, for example, if the production-related equipment is a packaging device that performs packaging or box packaging on integrated blister sheets, the status information refers to, for example, packaging speed or information on the occurrence of errors. Furthermore, if the production-related equipment is an inspection device, the status information refers to brightness caused by lighting or information on the occurrence of errors.

[0024] In addition, "a specified request" refers to a request sent from a control processing unit to a reference time generating means, or a request that is automatically generated by the reference time generating means. Examples of the timing of this request include when the control processing unit starts, when a connection is established between the control processing unit and the network, when the time indicated by the reference time or local clock means becomes a preset hour, or when a production-related device starts.

[0025] According to the above means 1, a control processing device that performs control processing of a production-related device can confirm that the data storage server and the network are functioning (normally), and enables the startup of the corresponding production-related device on the condition that they are functioning. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the production-related device from starting when data cannot be stored in the data storage server, and the integrity of the data stored in the data storage server can be more reliably guaranteed.

[0026] In addition, whenever data occurs, the control processing unit stores the data and the data occurrence time information corresponding to the data in a local storage means. Then, the data and the data occurrence time information stored in the local storage means are transmitted to a data storage server via a network. The data storage server stores the data and the data occurrence time information transmitted from the control processing unit in a main storage means. Since the data, etc. is stored in the local storage means in this way, the data, etc. can be continuously stored even if a malfunction occurs in the data storage server or the network. Therefore, if a malfunction occurs in the data storage server or the network, the operation of the production-related device can be continued to store the data currently in operation, or the production-related device can be stopped to store the data corresponding to the stop. Therefore, when a malfunction occurs in the data storage server or the network, there is no concern regarding the storage of data, etc., and the operation of the production-related device can be appropriately selected to continue or stop.

[0027] In addition, since data is stored in a local storage medium, data loss associated with failures in the data storage server or network can be prevented more reliably. As a result, the integrity of the data stored in the data storage server can be guaranteed more reliably.

[0028] In addition, the control processing unit modifies the time of the local clock means based on reference time information transmitted from the reference time generation means via the network. Therefore, the times indicated by each local clock means in multiple control processing units can be nearly synchronized, and each control processing unit can obtain the time of occurrence of data using a unified standard (reference time). By doing so, the time of occurrence of data stored in the data storage server (main memory means) can be made more accurate. As a result, the requirements for concurrency regarding the data stored in the data storage server can be satisfied more strictly.

[0029] Means 2. A data management system described in Means 1, characterized in that the data storage server comprises the reference time generation means.

[0030] According to the above means 2, the control processing device can confirm that the data storage server and network are functioning (normally) by receiving a reference time signal. Therefore, the reception of the reference time signal serves to confirm whether the data storage server and network are functioning, and the control processing device does not need to perform any special operations for this confirmation. Thus, the processing burden on the control processing device can be reduced.

[0031] Means 3. The control processing device can transmit to the data storage server transmission time information, which is information based on the time indicated by the local clock means at the time of transmission of the data and the data occurrence time information to the data storage server, and

[0032] A data management system described in means 2, characterized in that the data storage server is capable of comparing a reference time indicated by the reference time generating means at the time of receiving the transmission time information with a time based on the transmission time information.

[0033] According to the above means 3, the data storage server can compare the reference time indicated by the reference time generating means when receiving transmission time information with the time based on the transmission time information. Accordingly, it is possible to determine whether the time indicated by the local clock means of each control processing means is appropriate and to take action based on the result of such determination. For example, when the error between the reference time and the time indicated by the local clock means exceeds a certain value, it becomes possible to shorten the time interval for transmitting the reference time signal and to more precisely match the time indicated by each local clock means.

[0034] Mean 4. A data management system described in any one of means 1 to 3, characterized in that the control processing device enables the operation of the corresponding production-related device under the condition that the data storage server and the network are functioning, and that the reference time information is transmitted from the reference time generating means through the network, and the time of the local clock means is modified based on the reference time information.

[0035] According to the above means 4, the control processing device enables the startup of a corresponding production-related device after modifying the time of a local clock means based on a reference time signal. Accordingly, when starting a production-related device, the time of each local clock means can be aligned with the reference time, and it becomes possible to satisfy the requirements for concurrency in the data stored in the data storage server even more strictly.

[0036] Mean 5. A data management system described in any one of the first to fourth, characterized in that the control processing device prevents the startup of the corresponding production-related device when a predetermined amount of time has elapsed since the last modification of the time of the local clock means.

[0037] According to the above means 5, the control processing device prevents the startup of the corresponding production-related device if the time of the local clock means has not been modified for a predetermined period of time or longer. Therefore, when there is a concern that the time of the local clock means is significantly out of step with respect to the reference time, the production-related device cannot be started, and furthermore, data related to the operation of the production-related device cannot be stored. Accordingly, the requirements for concurrency regarding data stored in the data storage server (main storage means) can be satisfied even more strictly.

[0038] Means 6. At least one of the above-mentioned production-related devices is a blister packaging machine for manufacturing a blister sheet in which a cover film is attached to the container film to block the pocket portion while a tablet is filled into the pocket portion formed in the container film.

[0039] The above blister packaging machine is,

[0040] A filling means for filling a tablet into the pocket portion, and

[0041] The present invention is provided with a storage means in which the tablet supplied to the filling means is stored, and

[0042] A data management system described in any one of means 1 to 5, wherein the control processing device performing control processing according to the blister packaging machine continues the operation of the blister packaging machine until at least the storage means is empty when at least one of the data storage server and the network is not functioning.

[0043] When it is confirmed that the data storage server and / or network is not functioning (normally), if the blister packaging machine is stopped immediately, tablets may be stored in the storage means. Since the tablets stored in the storage means may be exposed to air or moisture, there is a risk that when the operation of the blister packaging machine is resumed, abnormalities such as changes in ingredients may occur, rendering them unsuitable for use. Therefore, such tablets must be disposed of, which may lead to increased manufacturing costs.

[0044] In this regard, according to the above means 6, the control processing device that performs control processing according to the blister packaging machine continues the operation of the blister packaging machine until all the tablets stored in the storage means are used, even when the data storage server and / or network are not functioning. Accordingly, it is possible to more reliably prevent tablets from being wasted and to suppress the increase in manufacturing costs. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0045] Figure 1 is a block diagram showing the schematic configuration of a data management system. Figure 2 is a perspective view of a PTP sheet. Figure 3 is a partial enlarged cross-sectional view of a PTP sheet. Figure 4 is a schematic diagram showing the general configuration of a PTP packaging machine, etc. Figure 5 is a diagram illustrating a process performed by a control device or a processing judgment device. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0046] Hereinafter, an embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. As shown in FIG. 1, in this embodiment, a data management system (100) is applied to a production line (200) of a PTP sheet (1) as a blister sheet (see FIG. 2) and an inspection device (70) installed in correspondence with the production line (200). Before describing the data management system (100), the PTP sheet (1), the production line (200), and the inspection device (70) will be described.

[0047] First, the PTP sheet (1) will be described. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the PTP sheet (1) has a container film (3) having a plurality of pocket portions (2) and a cover film (4) attached to the container film (3) to block the pocket portions (2). The container film (3) is formed from a transparent thermoplastic resin material, such as PP (polypropylene) or PVC (polyvinyl chloride). Meanwhile, the cover film (4) is composed of an opaque material (e.g., aluminum foil) with a sealant, such as polypropylene resin, installed on its surface. Each pocket portion (2) contains one tablet (5) as the "contents." Furthermore, the materials of each film (3, 4), the number and location of the pocket portions (2), and the contents contained in the pocket portions (2) are not limited to the above and may be appropriately changed.

[0048] Next, the production line (200) of the PTP sheet (1) will be described. As shown in FIG. 1, the production line (200) is equipped with a PTP packaging machine (10), an aggregation device (50), and a packaging device (60) in order from the upstream side. In this embodiment, the PTP packaging machine (10) constitutes a "blister packaging machine." In addition, in this embodiment, the PTP packaging machine (10), the aggregation device (50), the packaging device (60), and the inspection device (70) each constitute a "production-related device."

[0049] First, the PTP packaging machine (10) will be described. As shown in FIG. 4, a strip-shaped container film (3) is installed at the uppermost side of the PTP packaging machine (10), and the container film (3) discharged from there is conveyed through a predetermined path. The PTP packaging machine (10) is equipped with a preheating device (15), a pocket forming device (16), a filling device (21), a sealing device (25), a slit forming device (33), an imprinting device (34), and a sheet punching device (37) in order from the upstream side along the conveying path of the container film (3). In addition, a storage device (20) is installed corresponding to the filling device (21). In this embodiment, the storage device (20) constitutes a "storage means," and the filling device (21) constitutes a "filling means."

[0050] The preheating device (15) preheats the container film (3). The pocket forming device (16) forms a pocket (2) on the preheated container film (3) using a predetermined mold or the like.

[0051] The filling device (21) is equipped with a tubular chute that accommodates tablets (5) arranged in a row, and a shutter (not shown, each) capable of opening and closing the outlet of the chute, and fills the pocket portion (2) with tablets (5) by opening the shutter at a predetermined timing. Additionally, the filling device (21) may be equipped with an adsorption drum (not shown) capable of adsorbing tablets (5), and fill the pocket portion (2) with tablets (5) by releasing the adsorption.

[0052] The storage device (20) can store a number of tablets (5) and sequentially supplies the stored tablets (5) to the filling device (21).

[0053] The sealing device (25) is equipped with a heating roll (25a) having a heating function and a film transfer roll (25b) that continuously conveys the container film (3), and a cover film (4) is attached to the container film (3) by blocking the pocket portion (2). More specifically, the heating roll (25a) and the cover film (4) are guided, and the container film (3) and the cover film (4) pass between the two rolls (25a, 25b) in a heated press state, thereby attaching the cover film (4) to the container film (3). By attaching the cover film (4) to the container film (3), a strip-shaped PTP film (6) containing tablets (5) in each pocket portion (2) is manufactured.

[0054] The slit forming device (33) forms a separation slit at a predetermined location on the PTP film (6). The imprinting device (34) imprints at a predetermined location on the PTP film (6) (e.g., a tag portion). Additionally, the illustration of the separation slit and the imprinting is omitted in FIG. 2.

[0055] The sheet punching device (37) has the function of punching the outer edge of the PTP film (6) in units of PTP sheet (1), that is, separating the PTP sheet (1) from the PTP film (6).

[0056] The PTP sheet (1) obtained by the sheet punching device (37) is returned to the collection device (50) by the conveyor (39). However, if a defect is determined by the processing judgment device (140) described later, the PTP sheet (1) resulting from this defect determination is not sent to the collection device (50) but is discharged separately by a defect sheet discharge mechanism not shown. In addition, the scrap portion remaining after punching the PTP film (6) is cut to a predetermined size by the cutting device (41) and then stored in the scrap hopper (43).

[0057] In addition, in the PTP packaging machine (10), the conveying form of the container film (3) or PTP film (6) is appropriately changed to continuous conveying or intermittent conveying in order to correspond to each processing performed by the various devices. In order to prevent loosening of the container film (3), etc. due to such a change in the conveying form, a tension roller is installed at a predetermined position in the conveying path of the container film (3), etc. to maintain the tension of the container film (3), etc. within a certain range.

[0058] Returning to Fig. 1, the assembly device (50) stacks the supplied PTP sheets (1) at predetermined intervals, and then transfers the stacked PTP sheets (1) to the packaging device (60) responsible for the next process.

[0059] The packaging device (60) is equipped with a pillow packaging machine, a band hanger packaging machine, a box packaging device, etc., and by performing packaging processing or box packaging processing on the PTP sheet (1) delivered from the collection device (50), a sheet bale is manufactured in which the PTP sheet (1) is packaged in a box and baled. This sheet bale is finally shipped.

[0060] The inspection device (70) is installed in correspondence with the PTP packaging machine (10) or the packaging device (60) and is a device for conducting an inspection of a subject to be inspected. In the case of the inspection device (70) installed in the PTP packaging machine (10), the subject to be inspected is a sheet portion such as a tablet (5) or a container film (3). In the case of the inspection device (70) installed in the packaging device (60), the subject to be inspected is a sheet bale.

[0061] In this embodiment, a plurality of inspection devices (70) are installed, and each inspection device (70) is installed at an appropriate location according to the content to be inspected. For example, an inspection device (70) responsible for inspecting the appearance of the tablet (5) filled in the pocket portion (2) or the mixing of foreign matter into the pocket portion (2) is installed along the conveying path of the container film (3) immediately downstream of the filling device (21) (see FIG. 4).

[0062] Additionally, an inspection device (70) (not shown in FIG. 4) responsible for inspecting the appearance of the tablet (5) before filling the pocket portion (2) is installed in correspondence with the conveying path of the tablet (5) upstream of the filling position of the tablet (5) in the pocket portion (2). Additionally, an inspection device (70) (not shown in FIG. 4) responsible for inspecting the seal condition of the PTP film (6) is installed along the conveying path of the PTP film (6) immediately downstream of the sealing device (25). Additionally, an inspection device (70) responsible for inspecting the appearance or weight of the sheet bale is installed along the conveying path of the sheet bale in the packaging device (60).

[0063] Each inspection device (70) is equipped with various means (e.g., a lighting device, a camera, a weight measuring device, etc.) for acquiring various inspection information (e.g., image data of the object to be inspected, weight of the object to be inspected, etc.) according to the object to be inspected. Additionally, a processing judgment device (140) described later is installed corresponding to each inspection device (70), and each inspection device (70) sends the information acquired using the various means to the corresponding processing judgment device (140). For example, an inspection device (70) (see FIG. 4) responsible for inspecting the appearance of a tablet (5) filled in a pocket (2) takes a picture of the tablet (5) and the container film (3) by a camera while irradiating a predetermined light onto the tablet (5) and the container film (3) from a lighting device. Then, this inspection device (70) sends the image data obtained by the picture to the processing judgment device (140) corresponding to the inspection device (70).

[0064] Next, the data management system (100) is described. The data management system (100) centrally stores and manages data related to the operation of each device (such as a PTP packaging machine (10)) and each inspection device (70) constituting the production line (200), along with the time of occurrence of the data. The data management system (100) is equipped with a network (110), a data storage server (120), a control device (130), and a processing judgment device (140). In this embodiment, the control device (130) and the processing judgment device (140) are each installed in multiple numbers (however, only one processing judgment device (140) is shown in FIG. 1). The control device (130) and the processing judgment device (140) each correspond to a "control processing device."

[0065] The network (110) is configured, for example, by a local area network line, and enables communication between each of a plurality of control devices (130), a plurality of processing judgment devices (140), and a data storage server (120). The network (110) is equipped with an upstream network (111), a downstream network (112), a relay device (113), etc.

[0066] The upstream network (111) is responsible for communication between a plurality of processing decision devices (140), a data storage server (120), and a relay device (113). The downstream network (112) is responsible for communication between a plurality of control devices (130) and a relay device (113).

[0067] The relay device (113) is configured by a computer system equipped with a CPU as a means of computation, a ROM that stores various programs, a RAM that temporarily stores various data, and a storage medium for long-term storage of information (e.g., memory, HDD, SSD, etc.). The relay device (113) is equipped with a storage unit (113a) made of the above storage medium. Various programs or parameters for communication relay are stored in the above storage unit (113a). Based on the programs stored in the storage unit (113a), the relay device (113) relays communication between an upstream network (111) and a downstream network (112).

[0068] The data storage server (120) stores data and the time of occurrence of the data according to the operation of each device and each inspection device (70) constituting the production line (200). The data storage server (120) is configured by a computer system equipped with a CPU, RAM, ROM and a storage medium, etc.

[0069] The data storage server (120) is equipped with a main memory unit (121) and a reference time generation unit (122). In this embodiment, the main memory unit (121) constitutes a "main memory means," and the reference time generation unit (122) constitutes a "reference time generation means."

[0070] The main memory unit (121) is configured by the above-mentioned memory medium and stores data and data occurrence time information sent from the control unit (130) and the processing judgment unit (140). Data occurrence time information is information indicating the time at which data occurred according to the operation of each device and each inspection unit (70) constituting the production line (200).

[0071] The reference time generation unit (122) is configured by a clock function within the data storage server (120) and generates a reference time. The reference time is a standard for aligning the time in a plurality of local clock units (150) described later. The reference time generation unit (122) transmits reference time information, which is information representing the reference time, to the control device (130) and the processing judgment device (140) via the network (110). The transmission of the reference time information is carried out at predetermined time intervals or based on a predetermined request.

[0072] Additionally, "a predetermined request" refers to a request for transmission of reference time information sent from a control device (130) or a processing judgment device (140) to a reference time generation unit (122), or a request for transmission of reference time information that is automatically generated by the reference time generation unit (122). The timing of this request may include when the control device (130) or the processing judgment device (140) is started, when a connection is established between the control device (130) or the processing judgment device (140) and the network (110), when the time indicated by the reference time or the local clock unit (150) becomes a preset hour, or when a production-related device such as a PTP packaging machine (10) is started.

[0073] In this embodiment, the transmission of reference time information is basically carried out at predetermined time intervals (e.g., every 24 hours). In addition, the transmission of reference time information is also carried out when the control device (130) or the processing judgment device (140) is started.

[0074] Additionally, the data storage server (120) is capable of receiving transmission time information, which will be described later, from the control device (130) or the processing judgment device (140). Then, the data storage server (120) compares the reference time indicated by the reference time generation unit (122) when the transmission time information is received with the time based on this transmission time information (i.e., the time when the control device (130), etc., performs transmission processing of data, etc.). Then, if the error between the two times is less than or equal to a predetermined value, the data storage server (120) determines that the time indicated by the local clock unit (150), which will be described later, is appropriate. On the other hand, if the error between the two times exceeds a predetermined value, the data storage server (120) determines that the time indicated by the local clock unit (150) is inappropriate. If it is determined to be inappropriate, the data storage server (120) takes measures such as shortening the transmission interval of the reference time information to more precisely match the time indicated by each local clock unit (150). Additionally, the data storage server (120) may notify the outside that there is an abnormality in the time when the difference between the two times exceeds a predetermined value.

[0075] In addition, in this embodiment, the data storage server (120) (reference time generation unit (122)) is connected to the upstream network (111) via a wire. Therefore, compared to a wireless connection, it is possible to increase the communication stability of the transmission of reference time information. In addition, the connection type of the control device (130) or the processing judgment device (140) to the network (110) may be wired or wireless.

[0076] In addition, the storage medium of the data storage server (120) is configured to back up and store programs and parameters for operating each device and each inspection device (70) constituting the production line (200), which are transmitted from the control device (130) and the processing judgment device (140).

[0077] Additionally, access rights to the data storage server (120) are limited to only the administrator, and general workers are not allowed to access the data storage server (120) to change or delete information stored in the main memory (121) or the reference time of the reference time generation unit (122).

[0078] A control device (130) is installed for each PTP packaging machine (10), a collection device (50), and a packaging device (60), and performs control processing for the corresponding device. That is, one control device (130) performs operation control of the PTP packaging machine (10), another control device (130) performs operation control of the collection device (50), and yet another control device (130) performs operation control of the packaging device (60).

[0079] Each control device (130) is configured by a computer system equipped with a CPU, RAM, ROM, a storage medium, etc., and the storage medium stores a program and parameters for controlling the operation of the device. Each control device (130) controls the operation of the corresponding device based on the stored program and parameters. For example, a control device (130) corresponding to a PTP packaging machine (10) controls the start, stop, operation timing, operation speed, heating temperature, heating time, and applied pressure of each device (pocket forming device (16), filling device (21), sealing device (25), sheet punching device (37), etc.) constituting the PTP packaging machine (10).

[0080] A processing judgment device (140) is installed in each inspection device (70) and performs control processing in the corresponding device. Each processing judgment device (140) is configured by a computer system equipped with RAM, ROM, a storage medium, etc., and the storage medium stores a program and parameters for controlling the operation of the inspection device (70) or performing inspection processing based on information sent from the inspection device (70). Each processing judgment device (140) controls the operation of the inspection device (70) (e.g., starting, stopping, timing of imaging by a camera, brightness of lighting, etc.) based on the stored program and parameters, or determines the quality of the inspection target.

[0081] Additionally, each control device (130) and each processing determination device (140) (hereinafter referred to simply as "each control device (130), etc.") transmits a program and parameters for operating a device corresponding to a predetermined timing via the network (110) to a data storage server (120). As described above, this program, etc. is backed up and stored in the data storage server (120).

[0082] Additionally, each control device (130), etc. is equipped with a local clock unit (150) for measuring time and a local memory unit (160) for storing data according to the operation of the corresponding device. In this embodiment, the local clock unit (150) constitutes a "local clock means," and the local memory unit (160) constitutes a "local memory means." The local clock unit (150) is configured by the clock function of each control device (130), etc.

[0083] Each control device (130), etc., modifies the time of the local clock unit (150) based on reference time information transmitted from the reference time generation unit (122) via the network (110). As a result, as long as there is no abnormality in the network (110), etc., the time displayed by the local clock unit (150) will be nearly identical to the reference time.

[0084] Additionally, each control device (130), etc., stores data occurrence time information in a local memory unit (160) whenever data occurs in a corresponding device, which is information based on the data and the time indicated by the local clock unit (150) at the time the data occurred (see FIG. 5). Furthermore, this "data" refers to information necessary for the reproduction or verification of an event by the device, such as operation information for the device (e.g., logs regarding start, stop, setting change, etc.) or status information of the device (heating temperature, applied pressure, error occurrence, brightness of the lighting device, result of good / bad judgment, etc.). Such data is generated when an operation is performed or a status is confirmed.

[0085] Additionally, each control device (130), etc., transmits data stored in the local memory unit (160) and data occurrence time information to the data storage server (120) via the network (110) (see FIG. 5). The transmission of such data, etc. is carried out, for example, whenever the time of the local clock unit (150) reaches a predetermined time, at a predetermined time interval, whenever the size of the data, etc. stored in the local memory unit (160) reaches a predetermined amount, or whenever data, etc. is stored. Furthermore, these data, etc. are not transmitted to the data storage server (120) before the data and data occurrence time information are stored in the local memory unit (160).

[0086] Additionally, each control device (130), etc., is configured to transmit transmission time information, which is information based on the time indicated by the local clock unit (150) at the time of transmission of the data, etc. to the data storage server (120), to the data storage server (120) via the network (110). In this embodiment, when each control device (130), etc. transmits the data and the data occurrence time information, it transmits the transmission time information together with the data, etc. to the data storage server (120) (see FIG. 5).

[0087] Additionally, each control device (130), etc., can confirm that the data storage server (120) and the network (110) are functioning normally. In this embodiment, each control device (130), etc., confirms that the data storage server (120) and the network (110) are functioning normally based on whether or not reference time information is received at a predetermined time. Additionally, each control device (130), etc., may, for example, transmit a predetermined confirmation signal to the data storage server (120) via the network (110), and confirm that the data storage server (120) and the network (110) are functioning normally based on whether or not a reaction signal to the transmission is received from the data storage server (120). Furthermore, if the network (110) and each control device (130), etc. are wirelessly connected, a short period of communication interruption may occur due to the nature of the wireless connection, but it is preferable to set the verification to ignore such communication interruption.

[0088] Additionally, each control device (130), etc., starts or stops the PTP packaging machine (10), the integration device (50), the packaging device (60), and the inspection device (70) when a predetermined start signal or stop signal is input through a predetermined input means. However, in this embodiment, the start conditions of the device (PTP packaging machine (10), etc.) in each control device (130), etc. are set as follows. That is, the first start condition is that the data storage server (120) and the network (110) are functioning normally. The second start condition is that the time of the local clock unit (150) is corrected based on transmitted reference time information. The third start condition is that a predetermined amount of time (e.g., 24 hours, etc.) has not elapsed since the time correction in the local clock unit (150) was performed. Each control device (130), etc., enables the start of the device (PTP packaging machine (10), etc.) only when all of these start conditions are satisfied.

[0089] Additionally, each control device (130), etc., performs the following operation when it is confirmed that at least one of the data storage server (120) and the network (110) is not functioning normally after the corresponding PTP packaging machine (10) or inspection device (70), etc., has been started.

[0090] That is, the control device (130) that performs control processing according to the PTP packaging machine (10) continues the operation of the PTP packaging machine (10) until at least the storage device (20) is emptied. In particular, in this embodiment, the control device (130) continues the operation of the PTP packaging machine (10) until a PTP sheet (1) can be obtained using the tablets (5) stored in the storage device (20) simultaneously with the storage device (20) being emptied. Then, the control device (130) stops the PTP packaging machine (10) at the stage where there is a shortage of tablets (5) and a PTP sheet (1) can no longer be obtained.

[0091] Additionally, the control device (130) that performs control processing according to the aggregation device (50) continues the operation of the aggregation device (50) to perform stacking of PTP sheets (1) until the PTP sheets (1) sent from the PTP packaging machine (10) run out. Then, the control device (130) stops the aggregation device (50) at the stage where the PTP packaging machine (10) is stopped and it is no longer possible to stack a predetermined number of PTP sheets (1).

[0092] Additionally, the control device (130) that performs control processing according to the packaging device (60) continues the operation of the packaging device (60) until packaging processing or box packaging processing is performed on all PTP sheets (1) delivered from the integration device (50). Then, the control device (130) stops the packaging device (60) at the stage where packaging processing, etc. for all PTP sheets (1) is completed.

[0093] Additionally, the processing judgment device (140) that performs control processing according to the inspection device (70) continues the operation of the inspection device (70) while the PTP packaging machine (10) or the packaging device (60) continues to operate. Then, the processing judgment device (140) stops the inspection device (70) in accordance with the stop of the PTP packaging machine (10) or the packaging device (60).

[0094] As described above, in cases where the network (110) or the data storage server (120) is not functioning normally, data and data occurrence time information are continuously stored in the local memory unit (160) even while production or inspection is continuing. Additionally, when the PTP packaging machine (10) or the inspection device (70) stops, data and data occurrence time information corresponding to the stoppage are stored in the local memory unit (160). Then, when the network (110) and the data storage server (120) are restored and function normally, this stored data is transmitted to the data storage server (120) via the network (110).

[0095] Additionally, when it is confirmed that the data storage server (120) or network (110) is not functioning normally, the PTP packaging machine (10) and inspection device (70), etc., may be stopped immediately. The data and data occurrence time information resulting from this stoppage are stored in the local memory unit (160).

[0096] As described above, according to the present embodiment, the control device (130), etc., can confirm that the data storage server (120) and the network (110) are functioning (normally), and, under the condition that they are functioning, enable the operation of the corresponding PTP packaging machine (10) or inspection device (70), etc. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the PTP packaging machine (10), etc. from operating when data cannot be stored in the data storage server (120), and the integrity of the data stored in the data storage server (120) can be more reliably guaranteed.

[0097] Additionally, since the data and data occurrence time information are stored in the local memory unit (160) before transmission to the data storage server (120), the data can be continuously stored even if an abnormality occurs in the data storage server (120) or the network (110). Therefore, in the event that an abnormality occurs in the data storage server (120) or the network (110), the operation of the PTP packaging machine (10) can be continued to store data during the operation, or the PTP packaging machine (10) can be stopped to store data corresponding to the stop. Therefore, when an abnormality occurs in the data storage server (120) or the network (110), there is no concern regarding the storage of data, and the operation of the PTP packaging machine (10) can be appropriately selected to continue or stop.

[0098] In addition, in order to store data, etc. in the local memory unit (160), the loss of data associated with an abnormality in the data storage server (120) or network (110) can be prevented more reliably. As a result, the integrity of the data stored in the data storage server (120) can be guaranteed even more reliably.

[0099] Additionally, each control device (130), etc., modifies the time of the local clock unit (150) based on reference time information transmitted from the reference time generation unit (122) via the network (110). Thus, the times indicated by multiple local clock units (150) can be nearly aligned, and each control device (130), etc., can obtain the time of occurrence of data using a unified standard (reference time). By doing so, the time of occurrence of data stored in the data storage server (120) (main memory unit (121)) can be made more accurate. As a result, the requirements for concurrency regarding the data stored in the data storage server (120) can be satisfied more strictly.

[0100] Additionally, each control device (130), etc., enables the operation of the corresponding PTP packaging machine (10) or inspection device (70), etc., after correcting the time in the local clock unit (150) based on the reference time signal. Therefore, when operating the PTP packaging machine (10), etc., the time in each local clock unit (150) can be aligned with the reference time, and it becomes possible to satisfy the requirements for simultaneity in the data stored in the data storage server (120) even more strictly.

[0101] In addition, each control device (130), etc., prevents the operation of the corresponding PTP packaging machine (10) or inspection device (70), etc., if the time of the local clock unit (150) has not been corrected for a predetermined period of time or longer. Therefore, when there is a risk that the time of the local clock unit (150) will deviate significantly from the reference time, the PTP packaging machine (10), etc. cannot be operated, and furthermore, data related to the operation of the PTP packaging machine (10), etc., can be prevented from being stored. Accordingly, the requirements for simultaneity in the data stored in the data storage server (120) (main memory unit (121)) can be satisfied even more strictly.

[0102] In addition, in this embodiment, the data storage server (120) is equipped with a reference time generation unit (122). Accordingly, each control device (130), etc., can confirm that the data storage server (120) and the network (110) are functioning (normally) by receiving a reference time signal. Therefore, receiving the reference time signal serves to confirm that the data storage server (120) and the network (110) are functioning, and each control device (130), etc., does not need to perform any special work for this confirmation. Accordingly, the processing burden on each control device (130), etc. can be reduced.

[0103] Additionally, the data storage server (120) can compare the reference time indicated by the reference time generation unit (122) when receiving transmission time information with the time based on the transmission time information. By doing so, it can determine whether the time indicated by each local clock unit (150) is appropriate and take action based on the result of such determination.

[0104] In addition, the control device (130) that performs control processing according to the PTP packaging machine (10) continues the operation of the PTP packaging machine (10) until all the tablets (5) stored in the storage device (20) are used, even when the data storage server (120) and / or network (110) are not functioning. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the tablets (5) from being left in the storage device (20) for a long time, and furthermore, it is possible to more reliably prevent the tablets (5) from being wasted. By doing so, it is possible to suppress the increase in manufacturing costs.

[0105] Furthermore, the above embodiments are not limited to the descriptions provided and may be implemented as follows, for example. Of course, other applications and modifications not exemplified below are also naturally possible.

[0106] (a) In the above embodiment, the startup conditions for the PTP packaging machine (10) or inspection device (70), etc., are that the data storage server (120) and network (110) are functioning normally, that the time of the local clock unit (150) has been modified based on reference time information, and that no more than a predetermined amount of time has elapsed since the time modification of the local clock unit (150). Accordingly, the startup conditions may be appropriately changed. For example, conditions for the modification of the time in the local clock unit (150) may not be included in the startup conditions. In addition, in this case, when the PTP packaging machine (10) or inspection device (70), etc. is started, a request for the transmission of a reference time signal may be sent from the control device (130) or processing judgment device (140) to the data storage server (120) (reference time generation unit (122)), and the time in the local clock unit (150) may be modified based on the reference time signal received as a reply to this request.

[0107] (b) In the above embodiment, the reference time generation unit (122) is installed in the data storage server (120), but the reference time generation unit may be installed separately from the data storage server (120). For example, the reference time generation unit may be a device connected to the network (110) (e.g., upstream network (111)) in a state independent from the data storage server (120), the control device (130), and the processing judgment device (140). In addition, at least one of each control device (130), etc., may be configured to have the reference time generation unit.

[0108] (c) In the above embodiment, the data management system (100) is applied to the production and inspection of the PTP sheet (1), but the data management system may also be applied to the production and inspection of products other than the PTP sheet (1).

[0109] (d) In the above embodiment, only one reference time generation unit (122) is installed, but multiple reference time generation units may be installed and configured so that a reference time signal is transmitted from each reference time generation unit. In this case, the time of the local clock unit (150) is modified based on the reference time signal transmitted from each reference time generation unit. In addition, in this case, it may be possible to determine whether the reference time generated by each reference time generation unit is appropriate by comparing multiple reference time signals (multiple reference times). The subject of this determination is not particularly limited and, for example, may be each control device (130), etc., or may be a reference time generation unit. Explanation of the symbols

[0110] 1: PTP sheet (blister sheet) 2: Pocket section 3: Container film 4: Cover film 5: Refining 10: PTP Packaging Machine (Production-related equipment, Blister Packaging Machine) 20: Storage device (storage means) 21: Filling device (filling means) 50: Integration unit (production-related device) 60: Packaging device (production-related device) 70: Inspection device (production-related device) 100: Data Management System 110: Network 120: Data storage server 121: Main memory unit (main memory means) 122: Reference time generation unit (reference time generation means) 130: Control unit (control processing unit) 140: Processing decision unit (control processing unit) 150: Local clock section (local clock means) 160: Local memory section (local memory means)

Claims

Claim 1 In a data management system for managing data according to the operation of a plurality of production-related devices, the system comprises: a local clock means for measuring time and a local memory means capable of storing said data; a plurality of control processing devices installed for each of the plurality of production-related devices and performing control processing according to the corresponding production-related device; a reference time generation means configured to generate a reference time and simultaneously transmit reference time information, which is information according to said reference time; and a data storage server installed separately from the control processing devices, having a main memory means capable of storing said data. The reference time generation means can transmit said reference time information to the control processing devices via a predetermined network at predetermined time intervals or based on a predetermined request. The control processing devices can modify the time of the local clock means based on said reference time information transmitted from the reference time generation means via the network. Whenever said data occurs, the control processing devices can store said data and said data occurrence time information, which is information according to said data and said time indicated by the local clock means at the time said data occurs, in the local memory means. Whenever said data occurs, the control processing devices can transmit said data and said data occurrence time information stored in the local memory means via the network to the data storage server. It is also possible to confirm that the data storage server and said network are functioning. A data management system characterized by enabling the operation of a corresponding production-related device under the condition that the storage server and the network are functioning, and wherein the data storage server is capable of storing the data transmitted from the control processing device through the network and the data occurrence time information in the main memory means. Claim 2 A data management system according to claim 1, wherein the data storage server comprises the reference time generation means. Claim 3 A data management system according to claim 2, wherein the control processing device can transmit transmission time information, which is information based on the time indicated by the local clock means at the time of transmission of the data and the data occurrence time information to the data storage server, to the data storage server, and the data storage server can compare the reference time indicated by the reference time generating means at the time of receiving the transmission time information with the time based on the transmission time information. Claim 4 A data management system according to claim 1, wherein the control processing device enables the activation of the corresponding production-related device under the condition that the data storage server and the network are functioning, and that the reference time information is transmitted from the reference time generating means through the network, and the time in the local clock means is modified based on the reference time information. Claim 5 A data management system according to claim 2, wherein the control processing device enables the activation of the corresponding production-related device under the condition that the data storage server and the network are functioning, and that the reference time information is transmitted from the reference time generating means through the network, and the time in the local clock means is modified based on the reference time information. Claim 6 A data management system according to claim 3, wherein the control processing device enables the activation of the corresponding production-related device under the condition that the data storage server and the network are functioning, and that reference time information is transmitted from the reference time generating means through the network, and that the time in the local clock means is modified based on the reference time information. Claim 7 A data management system according to claim 1, characterized in that the control processing device prevents the startup of the corresponding production-related device when a predetermined amount of time has elapsed since the last time correction of the time in the local clock means was performed. Claim 8 A data management system according to claim 2, characterized in that the control processing device prevents the startup of the corresponding production-related device when a predetermined amount of time has elapsed since the last time correction of the time in the local clock means was performed. Claim 9 A data management system according to claim 3, wherein the control processing device prevents the startup of the corresponding production-related device when a predetermined amount of time has elapsed since the last time correction of the time in the local clock means was performed. Claim 10 A data management system according to claim 4, wherein the control processing device prevents the operation of the corresponding production-related device when a predetermined amount of time has elapsed since the last time correction of the time in the local clock means was performed. Claim 11 A data management system according to claim 5, wherein the control processing device prevents the startup of the corresponding production-related device when a predetermined amount of time has elapsed since the last time correction of the time in the local clock means was performed. Claim 12 A data management system according to claim 6, wherein the control processing device prevents the operation of the corresponding production-related device when a predetermined amount of time has elapsed since the last time correction of the time in the local clock means was performed. Claim 13 A data management system according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein at least one of the production-related devices is a blister packaging machine for manufacturing a blister sheet formed by filling a pocket portion formed in a container film with a tablet and simultaneously attaching a cover film to the container film to block the pocket portion, and the blister packaging machine comprises a filling means for filling the pocket portion with a tablet and a storage means for storing the tablet supplied to the filling means, and the control processing device performing control processing according to the blister packaging machine is characterized by continuing the operation of the blister packaging machine until at least the storage means is empty when at least one of the data storage server and the network is not functioning.

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