Cleaning / disinfecting device, drug solution bottle, and method for detecting position of drug solution bottle

Abstract

A cleaning / disinfecting device 1 comprises: a device body 2 capable of holding a drug solution bottle unit 7 to which are attached first to third color labels 19a -19c; a non-contact type color sensor 9 that detects each color of the first to third color labels 19a -19c in accordance with the position of the drug solution bottle unit 7 which moves inside the device body 2; and a processor 10a that determines the position of the drug solution bottle unit 7 on the basis of a detection signal from the color sensor 9.

Description

Cleaning and disinfecting apparatus, chemical bottle, and method for detecting the position of a chemical bottle

[0001] The present invention relates to a cleaning and disinfecting apparatus that mainly cleans and disinfects used endoscopes, a chemical bottle that is attached to the cleaning and disinfecting apparatus, and a method for detecting the position of the chemical bottle.

[0002] Endoscopes are widely used for internal examinations, treatments, etc. Medical endoscopes in particular are inserted into the body and therefore need to be cleaned and disinfected after use. For this reason, endoscope washer-disinfectors are widely used to clean and disinfect used endoscopes.

[0003] Generally, a chemical liquid such as a disinfectant liquid for cleaning and disinfecting endoscopes is sealed in a chemical bottle. When supplying the chemical liquid from the chemical bottle to the endoscope washer-disinfector, a user places the chemical bottle on a tray pulled out from the front panel. Then, the user pushes in the tray, bringing the lid of the chemical bottle into contact with a blade provided in the endoscope washer-disinfector. This causes the blade to break the lid, opening the chemical bottle. Once the chemical bottle is opened, the chemical liquid from the chemical bottle is injected into the endoscope washer-disinfector.

[0004] To ensure accurate supply of the liquid medicine, it is important to insert the liquid medicine bottle to the appropriate position. For this reason, various endoscope washer-disinfectors capable of detecting the insertion position of the liquid medicine bottle have been proposed. For example, Japanese Patent Publication No. 4674272 discloses an endoscope washer-disinfector equipped with a first limit switch and a second limit switch on the top surface of the insertion section into which the liquid medicine bottle can be inserted. In this endoscope washer-disinfector, when the liquid medicine bottle is inserted to the first position, the first limit switch is pressed by the liquid medicine bottle and changes from OFF to ON. Furthermore, when the liquid medicine bottle is inserted to the second position where the inner surface of the liquid medicine receiving section and the beak are aligned, the second limit switch is pressed by the liquid medicine bottle and changes from OFF to ON. Furthermore, when the liquid medicine bottle is inserted to the third position where the stopper is opened, the first limit switch is released from pressure from the liquid medicine bottle by the stepped portion and changes from ON to OFF. As a result, the endoscope washer-disinfector detects that the chemical solution bottle has been moved sequentially from the first position to the third position.

[0005] However, since liquid medicine bottles are generally formed by blow molding resin materials, there are dimensional errors in small parts. For this reason, the technology of Japanese Patent No. 4674272 requires that the position of the limit switch be precisely adjusted, taking into account the dimensional errors of the liquid medicine bottle.

[0006] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above circumstances, and aims to provide a cleaning and disinfecting apparatus, a chemical bottle, and a method for detecting the position of a chemical bottle that can accurately determine the position of the chemical bottle without being affected by molding errors in the chemical bottle.

[0007] A cleaning and disinfecting apparatus according to one aspect of the present invention comprises an apparatus main body in which a chemical solution bottle having at least one detection object attached thereto can be placed, at least one non-contact sensor arranged in the apparatus main body and capable of detecting each of the at least one detection object according to the position of the chemical solution bottle moving inside the apparatus main body, and a processor that determines the position of the chemical solution bottle based on a signal from the at least one non-contact sensor.

[0008] A chemical solution bottle according to one aspect of the present invention is a chemical solution bottle that can be installed inside the main body of a cleaning and disinfecting device, and has at least one detection object attached to its surface, and each of the at least one detection object can be detected by at least one non-contact sensor provided inside the main body of the device.

[0009] A method for detecting the position of a liquid medicine bottle according to one aspect of the present invention is a method for detecting the position of a liquid medicine bottle having at least one detection object attached thereto inside the main body of an apparatus, in which each of the at least one detection object is detected by at least one non-contact sensor according to the position of the liquid medicine bottle moving inside the main body of the apparatus, and the position of the liquid medicine bottle is determined by a processor based on a signal from the at least one non-contact sensor.

[0010] A perspective view of an endoscope washer-disinfector. A perspective view of an endoscope washer-disinfector with the tray pulled out. A perspective view of a liquid medicine bottle unit. A side view of a first liquid medicine bottle of the liquid medicine bottle unit. A side view of a second liquid medicine bottle of the liquid medicine bottle unit. A perspective view of a liquid medicine bottle mounting device. A perspective view of a liquid medicine bottle mounting device with a liquid medicine bottle unit arranged therein. A perspective view of the liquid medicine bottle mounting device during the tray insertion process. A view showing a cap receiving tube and a blade provided on a bottle case. A view showing the state when the liquid medicine bottle unit is accommodated in the bottle case. A color filter in the first position. Schematic diagram showing the relationship between the color sensor and the marker group. Schematic diagram showing the relationship between the color sensor and the marker group at the second position. Schematic diagram showing the relationship between the color sensor and the marker group at the third position. Flowchart showing the bottle exchange monitoring routine (part 1). Flowchart showing the bottle exchange monitoring routine (part 2). Perspective view showing the liquid medicine bottle unit according to the first modified example. Perspective view showing the liquid medicine bottle unit according to the second modified example. Schematic diagram showing the relationship between the color sensor and the marker group at the first position according to the second modified example. A second modified schematic diagram showing the relationship between the color sensor and the marker group, a third modified schematic diagram showing the relationship between the color sensor and the marker group at a third position, a third modified schematic diagram showing the relationship between the image sensor and the marker group at a first position, a third modified schematic diagram showing the relationship between the image sensor and the marker group at a second position, a fourth modified schematic diagram showing the relationship between the image sensor and the marker group at a third position, a fourth modified schematic diagram showing the relationship between the magnetic sensor and the magnet group at a first position, and a fourth modified schematic diagram showing the relationship between the magnetic sensor and the magnet group at a third position. a fifth modified schematic diagram showing the relationship between the magnetic sensor group and the magnet at a first position; a sixth modified schematic diagram showing the relationship between the magnetic sensor group and the magnet at a third position; a sixth modified schematic diagram showing the relationship between the distance sensors and the recessed portion group at a first position; a seventh modified schematic diagram showing the relationship between the distance sensors and the recessed portion group at a third position; a seventh modified schematic diagram showing the relationship between the distance sensors and the recessed portion group at a first position; and an eighth modified schematic diagram showing the relationship between the distance sensor group and the recessed portion at a third position;Schematic diagram showing the relationship between the code reader and the two-dimensional code group at the first position; FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram showing the relationship between the code reader and the two-dimensional code group at the third position according to the eighth modification;

[0011] The present invention will be described below. In the following description, the drawings based on the respective embodiments are schematic, and it should be noted that the relationship between the thickness and width of each part, the thickness ratio of each part, etc. may differ from the actual ones, and the drawings may also include parts whose dimensional relationships and ratios differ from each other.

[0012] In the following description, the downward direction refers to the direction of gravity (vertically downward), the upward direction refers to the direction opposite to the direction of gravity (vertically upward), and the left-right direction refers to the horizontal direction perpendicular to the vertical direction.

[0013] 1 and 2, an endoscope reprocessor (Automatic Endoscope Reprocessor / AER) is exemplified as an endoscope washer-disinfector 1. Note that the present embodiment described below is not limited to endoscopes, and is applicable to various types of washer-disinfectors.

[0014] The endoscope cleaning and disinfecting apparatus 1 is an apparatus for regenerating contaminated used endoscopes, endoscope parts, accessories, etc. (none of which are shown).

[0015] The regeneration process here is not particularly limited, and may refer to, for example, a rinsing process with water, a cleaning process to remove organic matter and other contaminants, a disinfection process to neutralize specific microorganisms, or a sterilization process to eliminate or kill all microorganisms. Note that the endoscope washer-disinfector 1 may perform a combination of the above processes.

[0016] The accessories are not particularly limited, and examples include a suction button that is attached to the endoscope during use and removed from the endoscope during recycling, an air and water supply button, or a tip cover that covers the tip of the endoscope.

[0017] First, we will explain the configuration of the endoscope washer-disinfector 1. The endoscope washer-disinfector 1 has an apparatus main body 2. The apparatus main body 2 has an operation panel 3, an ID input unit 4, a top cover 5, and a water supply hose connection port 6. Furthermore, the apparatus main body 2 has inside it a liquid medicine bottle unit 7, a liquid medicine bottle mounting device 8, a color sensor 9, and a control unit 10.

[0018] The operation panel 3 is mainly composed of, for example, a touch panel. This operation panel 3 can display various types of information. For example, the operation panel 3 can display various operation buttons. This allows a user or the like to input various instructions to the operation panel 3. When an instruction is input by a user or the like, the operation panel 3 outputs a signal corresponding to the instruction content to the control unit 10.

[0019] Furthermore, the operation panel 3 can display various types of abnormality information when an abnormality occurs in the endoscope washer-disinfector 1. The abnormality information is displayed, for example, based on a signal transmitted from the control unit 10. This allows the operation panel 3 to warn the user or the like of the occurrence of an abnormality. Thus, in this embodiment, the operation panel 3 corresponds to one specific example of a warning unit. Note that the form of the operation panel 3 is not limited to that shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 , and it may be formed, for example, by an LED panel and a keyboard capable of key input.

[0020] The ID input unit 4 is capable of inputting a user ID. The ID input unit 4 is configured, for example, by an RFID reader capable of reading the user ID from an RFID tag. When the user ID is input, the ID input unit 4 outputs the user ID to the control unit 10.

[0021] The ID input unit 4 is not limited to an RFID reader, but may be, for example, a barcode reader that reads barcodes or a keyboard that allows key input.

[0022] The top cover 5 is provided on the top of the device main body 2 so as to be able to be opened and closed freely. When the top cover 5 is opened, a processing tank (not shown here) is exposed at the top of the device main body 2. The processing tank is a cleaning and disinfecting tank that accommodates the endoscope and accessories to be regenerated and stores liquids such as cleaning liquid, disinfecting liquid, and rinsing liquid.

[0023] The water supply hose connection port 6 is provided at one corner of the device body 2. The connection port of this water supply hose connection port 6 is connected to a water faucet via a water supply hose (not shown).

[0024] As shown in FIG. 3, the liquid medicine bottle unit 7 is a so-called cassette type in which two types of liquid medicine bottles, a first liquid medicine bottle 11 and a second liquid medicine bottle 12, are arranged side by side.

[0025] The first chemical bottle 11 stores a disinfectant, for example, a concentrated peracetic acid agent, and the second chemical bottle 12 stores a buffer.

[0026] That is, the first liquid medicine bottle 11 and the second liquid medicine bottle 12 are liquid medicine containers that store different drugs, namely, the main drug and a buffer. The liquid medicine bottle unit 7 may be composed of a single liquid medicine bottle or three or more liquid medicine bottles.

[0027] 3 to 5, the first chemical liquid bottle 11 and the second chemical liquid bottle 12 each have a container body 13, 14, which is the bottle body, and caps 15, 16. The container bodies 13, 14 are generally box-shaped and contain the liquid. Each of the caps 15, 16 is generally cylindrical.

[0028] Each cap 15, 16 is attached to a substantially cylindrical opening 13a, 14a through which the liquid such as the agent or buffer stored in each container body 13, 14 is discharged. Each cap 15, 16 is attached to the opening 13a, 14a of each container body 13, 14 by screwing or the like.

[0029] Each cap 15, 16 has a closure portion 17, 18 therein, which is a lid. Each closure portion 17, 18 is integrally formed so as to close the inner hole of each cap 15, 16. This maintains each container body 13, 14 in an airtight and liquid-tight state.

[0030] Such a liquid medicine bottle unit 7 is replaceable in the device body 2. That is, the liquid medicine bottle unit 7 used in the recycling process of an endoscope or the like is pulled out from the device body 2, for example, when the next recycling process is performed. Then, a new liquid medicine bottle unit 7 is inserted into the device body 2.

[0031] The liquid medicine bottle unit 7 has a marker group 19 so that the position of the liquid medicine bottle unit 7 relative to the device main body 2 can be detected, for example, when replacing the liquid medicine bottle unit 7. In the present embodiment, the marker group 19 is provided, for example, on the side surface of the container body 14 of the second liquid medicine bottle 12. Specifically, the marker group 19 is affixed to the surface of the outer side wall 14b of the container body 14 of the second liquid medicine bottle 12. Here, the outer side walls 13b, 14b of each container body 13, 14 refer to the respective pair of side walls of each container body 13, 14 that form the side surface of the liquid medicine bottle unit 7 as a whole. These side walls 13b, 14b each have a flat surface that is continuous along the central axes X1, X2 of the container bodies 13, 14, respectively.

[0032] The marker group 19 includes a first color marker 19a, a second color marker 19b, and a third color marker 19c. The first to third color markers 19a to 19c are arranged in a line, for example, along the central axis X2 direction of the container body 14 in order from the cap 16 side. In this embodiment, the first to third color markers 19a to 19c are arranged in a continuous band shape.

[0033] The first color mark 19 a is colored, for example, red, and is a mark for detecting, using the color sensor 9, that the liquid medicine bottle unit 7 has reached a preset first position.

[0034] The second color mark 19b is colored, for example, green, and is a mark for detecting, using the color sensor 9, that the liquid medicine bottle unit 7 has reached a preset second position.

[0035] The third color mark 19c is colored, for example, blue, and is a mark for detecting, using the color sensor 9, that the liquid medicine bottle unit 7 has reached a preset third position.

[0036] Thus, in this embodiment, the first to third color markers 19a to 19c correspond to a specific example of the detection target.

[0037] The liquid medicine bottle mounting device 8 is a device for replaceably installing the liquid medicine bottle unit 7 inside the device main body 2. This liquid medicine bottle mounting device 8 is arranged inside the device main body 2 so as to extend in the front-to-rear direction of the device main body 2. Furthermore, the liquid medicine bottle mounting device 8 is inclined at a predetermined angle of elevation so that the base end side is higher than the tip end side. The base end surface of the liquid medicine bottle mounting device 8 arranged in this manner is exposed to the outside through an opening 2a provided in the front panel of the device main body 2.

[0038] As shown in FIG. 6 , the liquid medicine bottle mounting device 8 includes a bottle case 31 and a tray 32 .

[0039] The bottle case 31 is hollow and generally box-shaped. The bottle case 31 is fixed inside the device main body 2. The bottle case 31 has an opening 31a at its base into which the front of the liquid medicine bottle unit 7 can be inserted. This allows the bottle case 31 to function as a bottle installation section into which the liquid medicine bottle unit 7 can be installed inside the device main body 2.

[0040] 9, the bottle case 31 has two cap receiving pipes 43, 44 on the lower side of the front end wall 31b. The two cap receiving pipes 43, 44 are arranged side by side in the left-right direction of the bottle case 31. Each cap receiving pipe 43, 44 is a fluid path inlet that guides the liquid in the first liquid medicine bottle 11 and the second liquid medicine bottle 12 to a liquid medicine tank (not shown).

[0041] As shown in Figure 10, each cap receiving tube 43, 44 has a cup shape into which the caps 15, 16 of the first liquid medicine bottle 11 and the second liquid medicine bottle 12 are inserted when the liquid medicine bottle unit 7 is installed in the bottle case 31.

[0042] 6, a fluid conduit 45, which is a fluid path formed in a predetermined curved shape and communicates with a chemical tank, is connected to each cap receiving pipe 43, 44. Blades 41, 42, which are closure-breaking members, are integrally joined to each cap receiving pipe 43, 44.

[0043] The blades 41, 42 are tubular members made of metal such as stainless steel, and have a sharp shape for piercing and breaking the closure portions 17, 18 of the caps 15, 16 inserted into the cap receiving tubes 43, 44, respectively.

[0044] The bottle case 31 also has a pair of left and right guide rails 33 at the top of the left and right walls. Each guide rail 33 extends in the front-rear direction of the bottle case 31.

[0045] The tray 32 has a bottom plate 35 , a back plate 36 , and a pair of left and right side plates 37 .

[0046] The width of the bottom plate 35 is set to be slightly larger than the width of the liquid medicine bottle unit 7, thereby enabling the tray 32 to place the liquid medicine bottle unit 7. Furthermore, the width of the bottom plate 35 is set to be slightly smaller than the width of the opening 31a of the bottle case 31, thereby enabling the tray 32 to be inserted into the bottle case 31.

[0047] The lower part of the back plate 36 is connected to the base end of the bottom plate 35. This back plate 36 functions as a door that opens and closes the opening 2a of the device main body 2. That is, when the tray 32 is inserted up to the terminal position (tip position) inside the bottle case 31, the back plate 36 closes the opening 2a of the device main body 2. At this time, the back surface of the back plate 36, which is the base end surface of the tray 32, is positioned on approximately the same plane as the front panel of the device main body 2. On the other hand, when the tray 32 is retracted rearward relative to the bottle case 31, the back plate 36 opens the opening 2a of the device main body 2.

[0048] The lower portions of the pair of side plates 37 are connected to the left and right side portions of the bottom plate 35. Furthermore, the base ends of the pair of side plates 37 are connected to the back plate 36. In this way, the side plates 37 position the medicine solution bottle unit 7 placed on the tray 32 in the left-right direction.

[0049] The upper ends of the pair of side plates 37 are slidably connected to the pair of guide rails 33. This allows the tray 32 to move back and forth relative to the bottle case 31.

[0050] Furthermore, for example, a side panel 37 facing the second liquid medicine bottle 12 is provided with an elongated hole 38 penetrating the side panel 37. The elongated hole 38 extends in a direction parallel to the pair of guide rails 33. The elongated hole 38 is set at the same height as the group of markers 19 of the liquid medicine bottle unit 7 placed on the tray 32. As a result, the elongated hole 38 exposes the group of markers 19 to the outside side of the tray 32.

[0051] The color sensor 9 is fixed inside the device main body 2. The color sensor 9 is disposed on the outer side of the tray 32. More specifically, the color sensor 9 is disposed on the outer side of the side panel 37 in which the elongated hole 38 is formed. The color sensor 9 is also disposed in a position where it can detect the color on the path T of the marker group 19 that moves back and forth together with the tray 32. This allows the color sensor 9 to detect the colors of the first to third color markers 19a to 19c, respectively, depending on the movement position of the liquid medicine bottle unit 7 (see FIG. 8).

[0052] The detection of color information by the color sensor 9 can be performed in a non-contact state with the liquid medicine bottle unit 7. The color sensor 9 then outputs the detected color information to the control unit 10.

[0053] The control unit 10 includes one or more processors 10a, a memory, an input / output interface, a recording medium, etc. For example, the processor 10a is at least one of a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), and a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit). The control unit 10 controls the endoscope washer-disinfector 1.

[0054] To control the endoscope washer-disinfector 1, the processor 10a monitors when the liquid medicine bottle unit 7 is replaced. In this monitoring, the processor 10a determines the position of the liquid medicine bottle unit 7. This position determination is performed based on detection information from the color sensor 9.

[0055] For example, when the color sensor 9 detects the color of the first color indicator 19a for the first time during the insertion process of the liquid medicine bottle unit 7 by a user or the like, the processor 10a determines that the liquid medicine bottle unit 7 has reached the first position. This first position is a position where it can be clearly determined that the user or the like has started to push the liquid medicine bottle unit 7 (see FIG. 11 ).

[0056] Furthermore, for example, when the color detected by the color sensor 9 changes from the color of the first color indicator 19a to the color of the second color indicator 19b during the insertion process of the liquid medicine bottle unit 7 by a user or the like, the processor 10a determines that the liquid medicine bottle unit 7 has reached the second position. This second position is, for example, a position where it can be determined that the liquid medicine bottle unit 7 has been pushed in to a position where the closures 17, 18 approach the blades 41, 42 (see FIG. 12 ). Furthermore, this second position is a position where the liquid medicine bottle unit 7 should not be pulled out, for example, by a locking mechanism (not shown).

[0057] Furthermore, for example, when the color detected by the color sensor 9 changes from the color of the second color mark 19b to the color of the third color mark 19c during the insertion process of the liquid medicine bottle unit 7 by a user or the like, the processor 10a determines that the liquid medicine bottle unit 7 has reached a third position (see FIG. 13 ). This third position is a position where it can be determined that the liquid medicine bottle unit 7 has been pushed in until the blades 41, 42 completely rupture the closures 17, 18.

[0058] In order to accurately detect these first to third positions, for example, the arrangement of the first to third color markers 19a to 19c relative to the liquid medicine bottle unit 7 and the arrangement of the color sensor 9 relative to the tray 32 are set in advance based on simulations, etc.

[0059] Furthermore, the processor 10a determines whether there is an abnormality in the replacement work of the liquid medicine bottle unit 7. If an abnormality in the replacement work is determined, the processor 10a transmits an abnormality signal to, for example, the operation panel 3. As a result, abnormality information is displayed on the operation panel 3.

[0060] Next, bottle monitoring when replacing the liquid medicine bottle unit 7 will be described with reference to the flowchart showing the bottle monitoring routine shown in Figures 14 and 15. This routine is executed by the processor 10a of the control unit 10.

[0061] When a user or the like starts a bottle replacement operation, the processor 10a checks in step S101 whether or not the color of the third color mark 19c is detected by the color sensor 9.

[0062] Then, in step S101, if it is determined that the color of the third color mark 19c has not been detected (step S101: NO), the processor 10a proceeds to step S102.

[0063] In step S102, the processor 10a outputs an abnormality signal to the operation panel 3, for example, displays abnormality information on the operation panel 3, and then exits the routine. That is, if the color of the third color indicator 19c is not detected when replacement of the liquid medicine bottle unit 7 begins, it is assumed that the liquid medicine bottle unit 7 before replacement was not set in the correct position. In such a case, it is assumed that liquid medicine remains in the liquid medicine bottle unit 7. Therefore, the processor 10a displays abnormality information on the operation panel 3 or the like to alert the user or the like.

[0064] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S101 that the color of the third color mark 19c has been detected (step S101: YES), the processor 10a proceeds to step S103.

[0065] In step S103, the processor 10a checks whether the color of the second color mark 19b has been detected by the color sensor 9.

[0066] Then, in step S103, if it is determined that the color of the second color mark 19b has not been detected (step S103: NO), the processor 10a waits.

[0067] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S103 that the color of the second color mark 19b has been detected (step S103: YES), the processor 10a proceeds to step S104.

[0068] In step S104, the processor 10a determines that a user or the like has started to remove the old liquid medicine bottle unit 7. That is, when the color detected by the color sensor 9 changes from the color of the third color indicator 19c to the color of the second color indicator 19b, the processor 10a determines that the removal of the liquid medicine bottle unit 7 has caused the liquid medicine bottle unit 7 to move in a direction retracting from the bottle case 31.

[0069] In the following step S105, the processor 10a checks whether the color of the third color mark 19c has been detected by the color sensor 9 again.

[0070] Then, in step S105, if it is determined that the color of the third color mark 19c has been detected (step S105: YES), the processor 10a proceeds to step S106.

[0071] In step S106, the processor 10a outputs an abnormality signal to the operation panel 3, for example, and displays abnormality information on the operation panel 3, and then returns to step S105. That is, if the color detected by the color sensor 9 changes from the color of the second color indicator 19b back to the color of the third color indicator 19c, it is assumed that the user or the like has pushed the liquid medicine bottle unit 7, which has started to be pulled out, back into the bottle case 31. Therefore, the processor 10a displays abnormality information on the operation panel 3 or the like, and prompts the user or the like to resume the operation of pulling out the liquid medicine bottle unit 7.

[0072] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S105 that the color of the third color mark 19c has not been detected (step S105: NO), the processor 10a proceeds to step S107.

[0073] In step S107, the processor 10a checks whether the color of the first color mark 19a has been detected by the color sensor 9.

[0074] Then, in step S107, if it is determined that the color of the first color mark 19a has not been detected (step S107: NO), the processor 10a returns to step S105.

[0075] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S107 that the color of the first color mark 19a has been detected (step S107: YES), the processor 10a proceeds to step S108.

[0076] In step S108, the processor 10a checks whether the color of the second color mark 19b has been detected by the color sensor 9.

[0077] Then, in step S108, if it is determined that the color of the second color mark 19b has been detected (step S108: YES), the processor 10a proceeds to step S109.

[0078] In step S109, the processor 10a outputs an abnormality signal to the operation panel 3, for example, and displays abnormality information on the operation panel 3, and then returns to step S108. That is, if the color detected by the color sensor 9 changes from the color of the first color indicator 19a back to the color of the second color indicator 19b, it is assumed that the user or the like has pushed the liquid medicine bottle unit 7 back into the bottle case 31 during the extraction operation. Therefore, the processor 10a displays abnormality information on the operation panel 3 or the like, and prompts the user or the like to resume the extraction operation of the liquid medicine bottle unit 7.

[0079] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S108 that the color of the second color mark 19b has not been detected (step S108: NO), the processor 10a proceeds to step S110.

[0080] In step S110, the processor 10a checks whether the color sensor 9 has detected a color other than the color of the marker group 19.

[0081] Then, in step S110, if it is determined that the color of the marker group 19 has been detected (step S110: NO), the processor 10a returns to step S108.

[0082] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S110 that a color other than the color of the marker group 19 has been detected (step S110: YES), the processor 10a proceeds to step S111. Here, a color other than the color of the marker group 19 is detected when the liquid medicine bottle unit 7 has been pulled out to a position where the color sensor 9 can no longer detect the color of the marker group 19. In such a case, the color sensor 9 detects the color of, for example, the side panel 37 of the tray 32 (see FIG. 7 ).

[0083] In step S111, the processor 10a checks whether a preset waiting time t0 has elapsed since the detection of a color other than the color of the marker group 19. Here, the waiting time t0 is, for example, the time required for a user or the like to remove the liquid medicine bottle unit 7 that has been pulled out of the device main body 2 from the tray 32 and place a new liquid medicine bottle unit 7 on the tray 32.

[0084] Then, in step S111, if it is determined that the waiting time t0 has not elapsed (step S111: NO), the processor 10a continues to wait.

[0085] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S111 that the waiting time t0 has elapsed (step S111: YES), the processor 10a proceeds to step S112. Note that the processing from step S112 onward is for monitoring the insertion process until a new liquid medicine bottle unit 7 is placed in the bottle case 31.

[0086] In step S112, the processor 10a checks whether the color of the first color mark 19a has been detected by the color sensor 9.

[0087] Then, in step S112, if it is determined that the color of the first color mark 19a has not been detected (step S112: NO), the processor 10a waits.

[0088] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S112 that the color of the first color mark 19a has been detected (step S112: YES), the processor 10a proceeds to step S113.

[0089] In step S113, the processor 10a determines that the new liquid medicine bottle unit 7 has reached the first position. That is, the control unit 10 determines that the user or the like has started the operation of pushing in the replaced liquid medicine bottle unit 7.

[0090] In the following step S114, the processor 10a checks whether the color of the second color mark 19b has been detected by the color sensor 9.

[0091] Then, in step S114, if it is determined that the color of the second color mark 19b has not been detected (step S114: NO), the processor 10a waits.

[0092] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S114 that the color of the second color mark 19b has been detected (step S114: YES), the processor 10a proceeds to step S115.

[0093] In step S115, the processor 10a determines that the new, replaced liquid medicine bottle unit 7 has reached the second position. That is, the control unit 10 determines that the new, replaced liquid medicine bottle unit 7 has been pushed into a position where the closures 17, 18 approach the blades 41, 42.

[0094] In the next step S116, the processor 10a activates a locking mechanism (not shown) to lock the tray 32 (medicinal solution bottle unit 7) against removal. This prevents the liquid medicine from leaking out of the device body 2 even if the closures 17 and 18 come into contact with the blades 41 and 42.

[0095] In the following step S117, the processor 10a checks whether the color of the third color mark 19c has been detected by the color sensor 9.

[0096] Then, in step S117, if it is determined that the color of the third color mark 19c has not been detected (step S117: NO), the processor 10a proceeds to step S118.

[0097] In step S118, the processor 10a checks whether a preset time t1 has elapsed since the color of the second color mark 19b was detected.

[0098] Then, in step S118, if it is determined that the set time t1 has not elapsed (step S118: NO), the processor 10a returns to step S117.

[0099] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S118 that the set time t1 has elapsed (step S118: YES), the processor 10a proceeds to step S119.

[0100] In step S119, the processor 10a outputs an abnormality signal to the operation panel 3, for example, and displays abnormality information on the operation panel 3, and then returns to step S117. That is, if the set time t1 has elapsed without detecting the color of the third color indicator 19c, it is highly likely that the user or the like interrupted the insertion operation of the liquid medicine bottle unit 7 before it reached the specified installation position. Therefore, the processor 10a displays the abnormality information on the operation panel 3 or the like, and prompts the user or the like to resume the insertion operation of the liquid medicine bottle unit 7.

[0101] Also, if it is determined in step S117 that the color of the third color mark 19c has been detected (step S117: YES), the processor 10a proceeds to step S120.

[0102] In step S120, the processor 10a determines that the replaced liquid medicine bottle unit 7 has reached the third position. That is, the processor 10a determines that the blades 41, 42 have broken the closures 17, 18, and that the liquid medicine in the liquid medicine bottle unit 7 has started to be supplied to the liquid medicine tank.

[0103] In the next step S121, the processor 10a checks whether a preset time t2 has elapsed since the color of the third color indicator 19c was detected. Here, the preset time t2 is set to, for example, the time required for all of the liquid medicine in the liquid medicine bottle unit 7 to be supplied to the liquid medicine tank after the closures 17 and 18 are broken.

[0104] If it is determined in step S121 that the set time t2 has not elapsed (step S121: NO), the processor 10a continues to wait.

[0105] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S121 that the set time t2 has elapsed (step S121: YES), the processor 10a proceeds to step S122.

[0106] In step S122, the processor 10a determines that the supply of the chemical to the chemical tank has been completed.

[0107] In the following step S123, the processor 10a releases the lock that prevents the tray 32 (medicinal solution bottle unit 7) from being pulled out, and then exits the routine.

[0108] According to this embodiment, the cleaning and disinfecting apparatus 1 includes an apparatus main body 2 in which a liquid medicine bottle unit 7 bearing first to third color markers 19a to 19c can be installed, a non-contact color sensor 9 that detects the colors of the first to third color markers 19a to 19c according to the position of the liquid medicine bottle unit 7 moving inside the apparatus main body 2, and a processor 10a that determines the position of the liquid medicine bottle unit 7 based on the detection signal from the color sensor 9. This allows the position of the liquid medicine bottle unit 7 to be accurately determined without being affected by molding errors in the liquid medicine bottle unit 7 (first and second liquid medicine bottles 11, 12).

[0109] That is, the color sensor 9 is a sensor that can detect the colors of the first to third color markers 19a to 19c without coming into contact with the second liquid medicine bottle 12. Therefore, even if there is a molding error in the second liquid medicine bottle 12, the color sensor 9 can accurately detect the colors of the first to third color markers 19a to 19c without being affected by the molding error. The processor 10a then determines the position of the liquid medicine bottle unit 7 based on the detection information from the color sensor 9. This allows the position of the second liquid medicine bottle 12 (liquid medicine bottle unit 7) to be accurately determined.

[0110] In this case, the processor 10a determines the direction of movement of the second liquid medicine bottle 12 (liquid medicine bottle unit 7) based on the order in which the first to third color indicators 19a to 19c are detected, thereby enabling the processor 10a to detect abnormalities during replacement of the second liquid medicine bottle 12 (liquid medicine bottle unit 7).

[0111] Furthermore, if the processor 10a detects an abnormality during the replacement of the liquid medicine bottle unit 7, the processor 10a issues a warning to the user, etc. This can assist in ensuring that the liquid medicine bottle unit 7 is replaced appropriately.

[0112] The first to third color markers 19a to 19c, which indicate the movement positions of the liquid medicine bottle unit 7, are provided on the flat side surface of the second liquid medicine bottle 12 (liquid medicine bottle unit 7). Such a flat surface makes it less likely for molding errors to occur when molding the second liquid medicine bottle 12. Therefore, the first to third color markers 19a to 19c can be attached to the second liquid medicine bottle 12 with high accuracy.

[0113] (First Modification) Here, for example, as shown in FIG. 16, the first to third color markers 19a to 19c can be arranged in a line in a discontinuous state.

[0114] (Second Modification) For example, as shown in Fig. 17, the third color marker 19c may be colorless. In this modification, as shown in Figs. 18 and 19, a colored liquid medicine is stored in the second liquid medicine bottle 12. The color of the liquid medicine is different from the color of the first color marker 19a and the color of the second color marker 19b. Furthermore, the second liquid medicine bottle 12 is transparent to the color of the liquid medicine stored therein.

[0115] In this configuration, color sensor 9 detects the color of the liquid chemical as the color of third color indicator 19c at the third position. Furthermore, when the liquid chemical is discharged from second liquid chemical bottle 12 at the third position, the color of third color indicator 19c detected by color sensor 9 changes to the color of second liquid chemical bottle 12 (see FIG. 20 ). This change in color of third color indicator 19c enables processor 10a to determine that the supply of the liquid chemical to the liquid chemical tank has been completed.

[0116] (Third Modification) The third modification and subsequent modifications differ from the above-described embodiment in the configuration of the detection object attached to the second liquid medicine bottle 12 and the non-contact sensor fixed inside the device main body 2.

[0117] 21 to 23, a symbol group 50 consisting of first to third graphic symbols 50a to 50c is attached to the second liquid medicine bottle 12 as a detection target. In this case, the shapes of the first to third graphic symbols 50a to 50c are different from each other. In addition, an image sensor 51 is fixed inside the device main body 2 as a non-contact sensor.

[0118] Even with this configuration, the same effects as those of the above-described embodiment can be achieved.

[0119] (Fourth Modification) In the above-described embodiment and the first to third modifications, the configurations capable of detecting the first position, the second position, and the third position have been described. In contrast, the following modifications will describe configurations capable of detecting the first position and the third position.

[0120] For example, as shown in Figures 24 and 25, a magnet (magnetic material) can be used as the detection target attached to the second liquid medicine bottle 12. In this modification, a magnet group 55 consisting of, for example, a first magnet 55a and a third magnet 55c is attached to the second liquid medicine bottle 12. The first magnet 55a and the third magnet 55c are magnetized so that their polarities on the front surfaces are opposite to each other. In this case, a single magnetic sensor 56 is used as a non-contact sensor inside the device main body 2. Even with this configuration, the first position and the third position can be detected without contacting the second liquid medicine bottle 12.

[0121] (Fifth Modification) The fifth modification is a further modification of the fourth modification.

[0122] 26 and 27 , for example, a single magnet 55a is attached to the second liquid medicine bottle 12 as a detection target. In this case, for example, a first magnetic sensor 56a and a third magnetic sensor 56c are fixed inside the device main body 2. Even with this configuration, the first position and the third position can be detected without contacting the second liquid medicine bottle 12.

[0123] 28 and 29 , for example, a recess may be used as a detection target on the second liquid medicine bottle 12. In this modification, the second liquid medicine bottle 12 is provided with a group of recesses 60 consisting of a first recess 60a and a second recess 60c. In this case, a distance sensor 61, for example, as a non-contact sensor, is fixed inside the device body 2. Even with this configuration, the first position and the third position can be detected without contacting the second liquid medicine bottle 12.

[0124] (Seventh Modification) The seventh modification is a further modification of the sixth modification.

[0125] 30 and 31 , for example, a single magnet 55a is attached to the second liquid medicine bottle 12 as a detection target. In this case, for example, a first distance sensor 61a and a third distance sensor 61c are fixed inside the device main body 2. Even with this configuration, the first position and the third position can be detected without contacting the second liquid medicine bottle 12.

[0126] (Eighth Modification) For example, as shown in Figures 32 and 33, one-dimensional or two-dimensional codes can be used as detection targets attached to the second liquid medicine bottle 12. In this modification, a two-dimensional code group 65 consisting of a first two-dimensional code 65a and a second two-dimensional code 65c is attached to the second liquid medicine bottle 12. In this case, a code reader 66, for example, as a non-contact sensor, is fixed inside the device main body 2. Even with this configuration, the first position and the third position can be detected without contacting the second liquid medicine bottle 12.

[0127] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment and modifications, and various modifications and variations are possible, which are also within the technical scope of the present invention.

[0128] For example, the number of detection objects and non-contact sensors is not limited to that in the above-described embodiment and modified examples, and it is sufficient that at least one of each is provided.

[0129] In the above-described embodiment and each modified example, a configuration has been described in which a detection target is attached to the second liquid medicine bottle 12. However, it is also possible to attach a detection target to the first liquid medicine bottle 11. Furthermore, it is also possible to attach a detection target to each of the first liquid medicine bottle 11 and the second liquid medicine bottle 12.

[0130] Furthermore, the position where the detection target is attached is not limited to the side of the bottle body, but can also be attached to the top or bottom surface of the bottle body.

[0131] Furthermore, it goes without saying that the configurations of the above-described embodiments and modifications may be combined as appropriate.

Claims

1. A cleaning and disinfecting apparatus comprising: an apparatus main body capable of mounting a liquid medicine bottle having at least one detection target attached thereto; at least one non-contact sensor disposed in the apparatus main body and capable of detecting each of the at least one detection target in accordance with the position of the liquid medicine bottle moving inside the apparatus main body; and a processor that determines the position of the liquid medicine bottle based on the detection signal from the at least one non-contact sensor.

2. A cleaning and disinfecting apparatus characterized in that the at least one detection target is a plurality of colored labels, and the at least one non-contact sensor is a single color sensor.

3. The cleaning and disinfecting apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that the processor determines the direction of movement of the chemical solution bottle inside the apparatus body based on the order in which the multiple color markers are detected by the color sensor.

4. The cleaning and disinfecting apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the processor issues a warning based on the direction of movement of the chemical solution bottle.

5. The cleaning and disinfecting apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that it is provided with a movable tray on which the chemical bottles are placed, the color sensor is arranged on the outside of the tray, and the multiple color markers are arranged on the sides of the chemical bottles.

6. The cleaning and disinfecting apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the at least one detection target is a plurality of magnetic bodies, and the at least one non-contact sensor is a single magnetic sensor.

7. The cleaning and disinfecting apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the at least one detection target is a single magnetic body, and the at least one non-contact sensor is a plurality of magnetic sensors arranged at different positions.

8. The cleaning and disinfecting apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the at least one detection target is a plurality of graphic symbols, and the at least one non-contact sensor is a single image sensor.

9. The cleaning and disinfecting apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the at least one detection target is a plurality of recesses, and the at least one non-contact sensor is a distance sensor.

10. The cleaning and disinfecting apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the at least one detection target is a recess, and the at least one non-contact sensor is a plurality of distance sensors arranged at different positions.

11. The cleaning and disinfecting apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the at least one detection object is a plurality of one-dimensional codes or a plurality of two-dimensional codes, and the at least one non-contact sensor is a single code reader.

12. A chemical bottle that can be installed inside the main body of a cleaning and disinfecting device, characterized in that it has at least one detection target attached to its surface, and each of the at least one detection target can be detected by at least one non-contact sensor provided inside the main body of the device.

13. The liquid medicine bottle according to claim 12, characterized in that it has a top surface, a bottom surface, and a side surface, and the at least one detection target is attached to the side surface.

14. The liquid medicine bottle according to claim 12, wherein the at least one detection target is a plurality of color markers.

15. The liquid medicine bottle according to claim 12, wherein the at least one detection target is a magnetic body.

16. The liquid medicine bottle according to claim 12, wherein the at least one detection target is a plurality of graphic symbols.

17. The liquid medicine bottle according to claim 12, wherein the at least one detection target is a plurality of recesses.

18. The liquid medicine bottle according to claim 12, wherein the at least one detection target is a plurality of one-dimensional codes or a plurality of two-dimensional codes.

19. A method for detecting the position of a liquid medicine bottle having at least one detection object attached thereto within a device body, the method comprising: detecting each of the at least one detection object with at least one non-contact sensor according to the position of the liquid medicine bottle moving within the device body; and determining the position of the liquid medicine bottle with a processor based on a signal from the at least one non-contact sensor.

20. The method for detecting the position of a liquid medicine bottle according to claim 19, wherein the processor issues a warning based on the direction of movement of the liquid medicine bottle.

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