Automated Singulation Device Selection via 3D Drug Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for providing separating devices for storage and dispensing containers in blister machines are time-consuming and prone to errors, especially when dealing with new or varied medication portions, as they require manual measurement and adaptation, which can lead to damage and inefficiency.
Innovation Solution
A method using image analysis and 3D modeling to automatically determine the dimensions of medication portions, allowing for the identification and procurement of suitable separating devices, either from stock or through production, based on processed drug information, minimizing human error and ensuring precise adaptation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual measurement and adaptation methods are used to provide separating devices for new medication portions, then the process can be completed with existing technology, but the process becomes time-consuming and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical measurement methods with an automated optical measurement system using a camera and image processing algorithm. The system captures images of medication portions and automatically calculates their dimensions, eliminating the need for manual measurement with physical tools. This substitution of mechanical measurement with optical-digital measurement resolves the contradiction by providing both high precision and speed simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service by allowing the blister machine to automatically determine its own requirements for separating devices. The control device processes medication portion images, calculates dimensions, and autonomously identifies suitable separating devices from inventory or triggers production requests without human intervention. This self-determination capability eliminates time losses associated with manual measurement and device selection.
2Ease of manufacture
If manual measurement of medication portions is performed, then existing technology can be used, but measurement errors can creep in leading to incorrect separating device selection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual measurement with an automated optical measurement system that captures images and processes them through algorithms to determine medication portion dimensions. This eliminates human error in measurement while maintaining ease of operation. The system consistently applies the same measurement criteria without fatigue or distraction, ensuring high reliability while remaining simple to operate - the operator simply needs to initiate the automated process.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the control device receives image data, processes it through image processing algorithms, and uses the results to automatically identify suitable separating devices. The system can verify measurements and cross-check against database information to ensure accuracy. This feedback loop eliminates measurement errors by continuously validating data against established criteria and correcting any deviations automatically.
3Productivity
If separating devices are manually adapted to medication portions, then existing inventory can be utilized, but the process is inefficient and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-establishing a database containing information about various separating devices and their suitable applications. Before actual measurement is needed, the system has already organized and categorized separating device specifications. When medication portions are measured, the control device can immediately query this pre-prepared database and identify suitable devices without delay. This preliminary organization of information dramatically reduces the time required for device identification and procurement.
Solution Approach 2:
The system achieves universality by creating a comprehensive database that stores information about multiple types of separating devices and their various applications. The control device can handle different medication portion types, sizes, and shapes using the same automated measurement and identification system. This multi-functional capability allows the system to efficiently manage diverse separating devices from a single integrated platform, improving productivity while reducing the time needed for device selection across different medication types.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a variety of separating devices are maintained in stock for different medication types, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity and inventory management become issues
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by creating a single automated measurement and identification system that can handle all types of separating devices. The control device uses uniform image processing algorithms and database queries regardless of which separating device is being selected. This universal approach maintains high adaptability across different medication portion types while reducing operational complexity - the system manages the complexity internally through standardized processes rather than requiring complex manual management of diverse devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary element - the control device with its database system - that mediates between the diverse separating devices and the measurement process. Rather than directly managing the complexity of multiple separating device types, the control device acts as an intermediary layer that standardizes interactions. The database stores and organizes information about various separating devices, and the control device automatically matches measured medication portions with suitable devices from this intermediary repository, reducing the complexity burden on operators while maintaining versatility.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach enables quick, cost-effective, and error-free provision of suitable separating devices, ensuring accurate dispensing and reducing the risk of medication damage, by automating the measurement and identification process, thus enhancing operational reliability and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
A recording device generates a plurality of images, with the drug portion to be measured being rotated by a predetermined angular step between each image
Implementation Method 2
The images are processed using image analysis, and a 3D model of the drug portion is determined
Data Source
Figure 1a~2b
Figure 3~4c
Figure 5~6
AI summary
The present invention relates to a method for providing a singulation device (20) for a storage and dispensing container (1) for drug portions. The singulation devices must be adapted to drug portions with varying dimensions. This is currently done by manually measuring the drug portions and then selecting a suitable singulation device. This process is time-consuming and prone to errors. The problem is solved by a method in which a drug portion of a specific drug type is first provided for measurement. Then, at least one image of the drug portion is generated using a scanning device, and this image is processed using image analysis to determine specific drug information about the provided drug portion, including at least the dimensions of the drug portion.Finally, based on the drug information obtained, a suitable singulation device (20) is identified for the drug portions to be singulated.