KR20230143552A - Formulation dispenser - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a dosage form dispenser. The formulation dispenser according to an example of the present invention includes a dispensing unit for storing the formulation and discharging the formulation, a receiving portion having a plurality of cartridge receiving ports into which a formulation cartridge assembly having a cartridge identification portion is inserted and mounted, and located at each cartridge receiving port; , a plurality of mounting detectors for detecting the cartridge identification portion of the formulation cartridge assembly, located in each cartridge storage port, a plurality of discharge drivers that drive the discharge unit to discharge the formulation from the formulation cartridge assembly, and connected to the mounting detection portion and the discharge driver, It includes a control unit that obtains information through the installation detection unit and controls the discharge drive unit. When the dosage form cartridge assembly is inserted into the cartridge storage port, the discharge drive unit is coupled to the discharge unit and the installation detection unit detects the cartridge identification unit.

Description

Formulation dispenser {FORMULATION DISPENSER}

The present invention relates to a dosage form dispenser.

Nutrients containing trace elements (zinc, iron, magnesium, etc.) or vitamins are generally recognized as health supplements that supplement the human body.

However, these nutrients may be used as treatments when necessary, and when used as treatments, the dosage may be strictly limited depending on the patient's condition.

For example, patients with osteomalacia must be prescribed vitamin D, and the dosage is determined according to the calcium concentration in the blood. At this time, if a patient with osteomalacia takes excessive amounts of vitamin D, side effects such as calcium stones or hypertensive disease may occur.

In addition, isoniazid, which is used to treat tuberculosis, can rapidly consume niacin (nicotinic acid) contained in the patient's blood during tuberculosis treatment. Therefore, if niacin deficiency occurs, the doctor must determine whether the niacin in the patient's blood is Determine the appropriate dose of isoniazid for the patient based on the concentration.

Likewise, nutritional supplements taken for health have the risk of acting as drugs that harm health if taken incorrectly depending on each user's physical condition such as underlying disease, so it is important to take the necessary amount of the type needed for the body.

In this way, it is best to take dosage forms such as health supplements or nutritional supplements or pills taken for treatment purposes at an appropriate dose at a designated time according to the user's physical condition.

However, it is difficult to take exactly the type of dosage form that is right for the user.

In particular, when taking a formulation as a health supplement, such as an aphrodisiac, unlike in the case of a disease, it does not directly affect the current health of the body, so the user can choose the product at their own discretion instead of a prescription from a specialist such as a pharmacist or doctor. There are many cases of taking it, and it is even more difficult to take the dosage form consistently in an accurate manner.

Patent Document 1 - U.S. Published Patent US2015/0090733 Patent Document 2 - Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2015-0014269

The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a formulation dispenser that makes it convenient and easy to take the formulation.

Another problem that the present invention aims to solve is to increase user convenience by accurately and easily determining the status of the formulation dispenser.

The formulation dispenser according to an example of the present invention includes a dispensing unit for storing the formulation and discharging the formulation, a receiving portion having a plurality of cartridge receiving ports into which a formulation cartridge assembly having a cartridge identification portion is inserted and mounted, and located at each cartridge receiving port; , a plurality of mounting detectors for detecting the cartridge identification portion of the formulation cartridge assembly, located in each cartridge storage port, a plurality of discharge drivers that drive the discharge unit to discharge the formulation from the formulation cartridge assembly, and connected to the mounting detection portion and the discharge driver, It includes a control unit that obtains information through the installation detection unit and controls the discharge drive unit. When the dosage form cartridge assembly is inserted into the cartridge storage port, the discharge drive unit is coupled to the discharge unit and the installation detection unit detects the cartridge identification unit.

The driving groove of the discharge unit is exposed in the insertion direction in which the dosage form cartridge assembly is inserted into the cartridge storage hole, and the drive shaft of the discharge drive unit may be located in a portion of the cartridge storage opening facing the driving groove of the dosage form cartridge assembly being inserted.

The cartridge identification portion is exposed in the insertion direction or in a direction different from the insertion direction, and the mounting detection portion is located in a portion of the cartridge storage opening facing the cartridge identification portion of the dosage form cartridge assembly being inserted, or when the dosage form cartridge assembly is mounted within the cartridge storage opening. It may be located in a part of the cartridge storage opening facing the identification unit.

In the dosage form cartridge assembly, the cartridge identification part and the driving groove of the discharge unit are positioned to be exposed in the insertion direction in which the dosage form cartridge assembly is inserted, and the drive shaft of the mounting detection part and the discharge drive unit is positioned to expose the cartridge identification part of the dosage form cartridge assembly and the driving groove of the discharge unit. It is positioned to face, and as the formulation cartridge assembly is inserted, the drive shaft of the discharge drive unit is inserted and coupled to the drive groove of the discharge unit, and the installation detection unit can face the cartridge identification unit.

Each cartridge storage port is provided to extend long in the insertion direction, and the drive shaft of the mounting detection unit and the discharge drive unit may be exposed to the bottom surface of the cartridge storage port.

The mounting detection unit has elasticity in the insertion direction and may be electrically or physically connected to the cartridge identification unit.

The plurality of cartridge storage ports may be further provided with a plurality of formulation discharge detection units that count the number of formulations discharged from the formulation cartridge assembly mounted on each cartridge storage port.

Each formulation discharge detection unit may be located at the bottom of each cartridge storage port.

Specifically, the discharge unit further includes a discharge pipe that extends toward the bottom of each cartridge storage port and through which the formulation is discharged, and the formulation discharge detection unit may be located adjacent to the discharge pipe.

When the formulation cartridge assembly is mounted on the cartridge storage port, the discharge pipe protrudes to the outside of the cartridge storage hole, and the formulation discharge detection unit may be positioned adjacent to a portion of the discharge pipe that protrudes to the outside of the cartridge storage hole.

The cartridge identification unit may include any one of a memory chip, a passive element, an identification mark, an RFID chip for radio frequency identification, and an NFC chip for short-distance wireless communication.

The control unit acquires cartridge information about the formulation cartridge assembly using the cartridge identification unit, and the cartridge information may include at least one of cartridge identification information about the formulation cartridge assembly or formulation information about the formulation stored in the formulation cartridge assembly.

It may further include an information output unit that is connected to the control unit and outputs cartridge information input from the control unit.

The information output unit may include at least one of a display module and an audio output module.

When the formulation cartridge assembly is stored in the cartridge storage port, the control unit may output the number of the cartridge storage port in which the formulation cartridge assembly is stored and the formulation information of the stored formulation cartridge assembly to the display module.

The control unit may output an image of the cartridge storage hole shape identical to the arrangement of the cartridge storage hole to the display module.

It is connected to the control unit and may further include an installation status display unit that displays whether or not the formulation cartridge assembly is installed in the cartridge storage port.

The control unit may calculate the current dosage remaining amount information by counting the dosage form discharged from the dosage form cartridge assembly using a signal applied from the dosage form discharge detection unit.

It further includes a sealing unit driving unit connected to the control unit and positioned at the lower part of the storage unit to operate a sealing unit that blocks the discharge passage of the discharge unit connected to the outside, and the control unit operates the sealing unit when discharge of the dosage form from the dosage form cartridge assembly is completed. This can block the discharge passage.

According to this feature, the dosage form is automatically dispensed according to the type and dosage of the dosage form to be taken according to the user's current physical condition, thereby greatly improving the user's convenience.

In addition, the operating status of the dosage form dispenser and the status of the installed dosage form cartridge assembly can be determined in real time.

1 is a schematic block diagram of components that control the operation of a dosage form dispenser according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 2 is a perspective view of a dosage form dispenser according to an embodiment of the present invention, (a) is a perspective view with the upper cover closed, (b) is a perspective view with the upper cover open, and (c) is a cartridge This is a diagram showing the state in which the formulation cartridge assembly is inserted into the storage port.
Figure 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a formulation dispenser according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figures 4a and 4b are perspective views of the formulation cartridge assembly of the formulation dispenser according to an embodiment of the present invention, respectively, and are perspective views taken from different directions.
Figure 5 is an exploded perspective view of the dosage form cartridge assembly shown in Figure 4A.
FIG. 6A is a diagram illustrating components constituting one formulation bottle unit mounted on a formulation dispenser according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 6b is a diagram schematically showing a view before and after the formulation cartridge assembly is mounted on the receiving port in the formulation dispenser according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 6C is a diagram for explaining an example where the cartridge identification unit has a three-dimensional identification mark pattern.
Figure 7 is a flowchart of the operation of the control unit that detects the mounting state of the formulation cartridge assembly in the cartridge storage port in the formulation dispenser according to an embodiment of the present invention.
8A and 8B are flowcharts of a method for controlling a formulation dispenser according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIGS. 9A and 9B are operational flowcharts for the discharge control step of the formulation cartridge assembly shown in FIG. 8A.
10 to 12C each show an example of an operation screen displayed on the information output unit according to the operation state of the dosage form dispenser according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Hereinafter, embodiments disclosed in the present specification will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. However, identical or similar components will be assigned the same reference numbers regardless of reference numerals, and duplicate descriptions thereof will be omitted. Additionally, in describing the embodiments disclosed in this specification, if it is determined that detailed descriptions of related known technologies may obscure the gist of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, the detailed descriptions will be omitted.

Terms containing ordinal numbers, such as first, second, etc., may be used to describe various components, but the components are not limited by the terms. The above terms are used only for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another.

Singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

In this application, each step described may be performed regardless of the listed order, except when it must be performed in the listed order due to a special causal relationship.

In this application, terms such as “comprise” or “have” are intended to designate the presence of features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof described in the specification, but are not intended to indicate the presence of one or more other features. It should be understood that this does not exclude in advance the possibility of the existence or addition of elements, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

Hereinafter, a formulation dispenser according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the attached drawings.

In this specification, the dosage form (T10) refers to a solid form of a health supplement such as a nutritional supplement or a medicine according to the purpose or purpose of use. The dosage form can have various shapes such as circular, oval, cylindrical, polygonal, etc. there is.

Referring to Figure 1, the control circuit that controls the operation of the formulation dispensing according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a communication unit 11, a user input unit 12, a plurality of installation detection units 13, and a temperature detection unit 14. , connected to a plurality of formulation discharge detection units 15, a communication unit 11, a user input unit 12, a plurality of installation detection units 13, a temperature detection unit 14, and a plurality of formulation discharge detection units 15. The control unit 20, the information output unit 31 connected to the control unit 20, the heat dissipation fan driving unit 32 and cooling unit 33 connected to the control unit 20, and the information output unit 31 connected to the control unit 20. A sealing unit driver 34, a plurality of discharge drivers 35 connected to the control unit 20, a plurality of mounting status display units 36 connected to the control unit 20, and a storage unit connected to the control unit 20. (37) can be provided.

The component shown in FIG. 1 includes a plurality of formulation cartridge assemblies 40 storing different types of formulations T10, and is stored in at least one formulation cartridge assembly 40 according to the user's operation. It may be located in the formulation dispenser (1) that automatically dispenses at least one type of formulation (T10).

Next, with reference to FIGS. 2A to 5, an example of the formulation dispenser 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described.

The plurality of formulation cartridge assemblies 40 are parts in which the corresponding type of formulation (T10) is accommodated and stored, and may all have the same structure, and are located in each cartridge storage port (H52) located inside the formulation dispenser (1). It can be stored.

One example of the formulation dispenser 1 may include a storage unit 50, a body 60, and a stand 80, as shown in FIGS. 2A to 2C.

In this specification, for convenience of explanation, the direction toward the front or rear of the formulation dispenser 1 with respect to the formulation dispenser 1 is referred to as the first direction (x), and the direction crossing the first direction (x) in the horizontal direction is referred to as the first direction (x). A direction perpendicular to the second direction (y), the first direction (x), and the second direction (y) is called the third direction (z).

Therefore, based on the formulation dispenser 1 shown in FIG. 2A, the first direction (x) may be the front and rear direction of the formulation dispenser 1, and the second direction (y) may be the left and right directions of the formulation dispenser 1. If it can be a direction, the third direction (z) can be a height direction of the formulation dispenser 1.

The storage unit 50 is a part where a plurality of formulation cartridge assemblies 40, each containing the formulation T10, are inserted and stored, and is located along the first direction x of the formulation dispenser 1. It can be located at the rear.

For example, the storage unit 50 may have a substantially cylindrical shape, may extend long along the third direction (z), and may have a circular planar shape. Accordingly, the side surface of the storage unit 50 may have a curved surface.

As shown in FIGS. 2A to 3, this storage unit 50 includes a housing 51, a storage portion 52 located within an internal space surrounded by the housing 51, and a central portion 53 of the storage portion 52. ) may be provided with a plurality of mounting state display units 36 that display the mounting state of the dosage form cartridge assembly 40 within the receiving portion 52.

As shown in Figure 2c, each of the plurality of mounting status display units 36 may be located in a portion corresponding to each cartridge storage port H52 in the center 53, and each mounting status display unit 36 has a lighting device therein. And, a number indicating the location of each cartridge storage port (H52) may be displayed on the surface of the center portion (53).

Accordingly, when the formulation cartridge assembly 40 is mounted, the mounting state display unit 36 corresponding to the cartridge storage port H52 where the formulation cartridge assembly 40 is mounted may be turned on.

The housing 51 may include a case 511 and an insulating portion 512 attached to the inner surface of the case 511.

The case 511 is intended to protect the storage unit 50, and may contain materials such as synthetic materials such as plastic or metal.

Since the shape of the case 511 is determined according to the shape of the storage unit 50, for example, it may have a circular planar shape and a cylindrical shape with the top and bottom open.

The insulation unit 512 is used to maintain the internal temperature of the formulation dispenser 1, more specifically, the internal temperature of the storage unit 50 at a predetermined temperature (e.g., 5°C to 15°C), and has an insulating effect. May contain insulating materials.

The receiving portion 52 is a portion into which the formulation cartridge assembly 40 is inserted and mounted, and may be provided with a plurality of cartridge receiving ports H52. In this example, the receiving portion 52 may be made of synthetic material.

In an alternative example, the accommodating portion 52 may contain an insulating material, and in this case, the insulating effect of the accommodating unit 50 can be further improved by the accommodating portion 52.

As shown in FIGS. 2B and 2C, one formulation cartridge assembly 40 is inserted and stored in each of the plurality of cartridge storage ports H52, and is arranged radially around the center 53 of the storage portion 52. You can.

Each cartridge storage port (H52) may have a recessed groove into which the formulation cartridge assembly (40) can be inserted. The recessed groove of each cartridge storage port (H52) may extend long in the direction in which the formulation cartridge assembly 40 is inserted.

The recessed groove of each cartridge storage port (H52) has a side wall and a bottom surface extending long in the insertion direction, and as shown in FIGS. 2C, 3, and 6B, for example, the bottom surface is a drive shaft (A35). ) protrudes into the recessed groove, and the discharge port (H422) of the formulation cartridge assembly 40 may be opened to communicate with the discharge portion 91 at the bottom of the recessed groove.

In addition, as an example, the plurality of cartridge storage openings (H52) may be arranged in a circle at the same distance from the center 53 of the storage unit 52, and the gap between two adjacent cartridge storage openings (H52) is also the same. may be identical to each other.

Accordingly, when the formulation (T10) is discharged from each formulation cartridge assembly 40 inserted into each of the plurality of cartridge storage ports (H52), the present invention provides a support that is external to the formulation dispenser 1 in each formulation cartridge assembly 40. The time until the corresponding formulation (T10) is discharged towards (80) can be made the same or the time difference can be minimized.

The shape and size of each cartridge storage port (H52) are the same, and the shape and size of each cartridge storage port (H52) can be determined depending on the planar shape of the inserted formulation cartridge assembly (40). may be provided to extend long in the direction in which the formulation cartridge assembly 40 is inserted and mounted.

2B, 2C, and 3 illustrate the case where each cartridge storage port (H52) is provided to extend long in the vertical third direction (z), but the present invention is not limited thereto, and each cartridge It is also possible for the storage port (H52) to extend long in the horizontal direction (x or y) intersecting the vertical direction (z). However, for convenience of explanation, the following description will take the case where the cartridge storage port H52 is provided to extend long in the vertical direction (z) as an example.

As shown in FIGS. 2B and 2C, one side of the cartridge storage port (H52) may be provided with a storage guide device (H521) for guiding the insertion direction of the formulation cartridge assembly 40.

At this time, the storage guide member H521 may have a shape that protrudes toward the center 53 of the cartridge storage portion 52, that is, toward the mounting status display portion 36. As shown in FIGS. 2B and 2C, the cartridge storage port (H52) and the storage guide port (H521) can be connected to each other to form one insertion port.

Accordingly, the user can quickly and accurately determine the insertion direction of the dosage form cartridge assembly 40 using the storage guide tool (H521), thereby ensuring a smooth insertion operation of the dosage form cartridge assembly 40, thus ensuring the user's convenience. Convenience can be increased.

2B and 2C, the number of the plurality of cartridge storage openings (H52) is 8 as an example, but it is not limited to this and can be changed, so the number of the plurality of cartridge storage openings (H52) may be more or less than 8.

Referring to FIG. 3 , a first circuit board (PCB1) on which a plurality of mounting state display units 36 are located may be located at the top of the center 53 surrounded by a plurality of formulation cartridge assemblies 40.

In addition, a second circuit board (PCB2) on which a plurality of mounting detection units 13 are located is located on the lower side of the plurality of cartridge storage ports (H52) where the plurality of formulation cartridge assemblies 40 are mounted. A third circuit board (PCB3) on which a control unit 20, a plurality of formulation discharge detection units 15, and a sealing unit driver 34 are located may be located at the lower part of (PCB2).

As shown in FIG. 3, at the lower part of the plurality of formulation cartridge assemblies 40, that is, at the lower part of the receiving portion 52, there is a discharge portion (T10) that collects the formulation (T10) discharged from the corresponding formulation cartridge assembly 40 and discharges it to the outside. A hopper (91) is positioned to allow at least one type of dosage form (T10) to be discharged to move into a collection cup (92) that can be positioned on the pedestal (80).

At this time, the discharge portion 91 may have a funnel shape, allowing the formulation T10 discharged from the formulation cartridge assembly 40 to stably move downward toward the collection cup.

As shown in FIG. 3, the third circuit board (PCB3) may be located in the discharge portion 91.

At least one damper portion 93 protruding toward the corresponding cartridge storage hole (H52) may be located on the side of the storage portion (52) in contact with each cartridge storage hole (H52).

The damper portion 93 may be inserted into the corresponding cartridge storage port H52 and come into close contact with the outer side of the stored formulation cartridge assembly 40.

Therefore, the damper unit 93 prevents the formulation cartridge assembly 40 inserted into the cartridge storage port H52 from shaking and being damaged due to vibration generated by the operation of the discharge drive unit 35, etc. It can perform a function to increase the adhesion between the formulation cartridge assembly 40.

Accordingly, this damper unit 93 may be made of a rubber material that cushions and absorbs the generated shock.

Next, with reference to FIGS. 4A and 5 , an example of the formulation cartridge assembly 40 inserted into each cartridge storage hole (H52) will be described.

As already described, the plurality of formulation cartridge assemblies 40 mounted on the storage unit 50 may have the same structure.

An example of such a formulation cartridge assembly 40 may include a cartridge 401 and a discharge unit 402, as shown in FIGS. 4A and 5, where the cartridge 401 stores the formulation T10. The discharge unit 402 may be combined with the cartridge 401 to discharge the formulation contained in the cartridge to the outside.

A plurality of cartridges 401 belonging to each formulation cartridge assembly 40 may store different formulations (T10) each containing different nutritional ingredients (eg, vitamin A, vitamin C, lutein, omega-3, etc.).

The hardness of these formulations (T10) may be greater than the standard value (e.g., 2.4 kp), and may be hard enough to prevent damage, such as breakage or breakage, from collision or impact during the dispensing operation by the formulation dispenser (1) in this example. It can have a value.

In addition, the formulation (T10) of this example has an appropriate maximum width and maximum height, and the ratio of the maximum width and maximum height is formed in an appropriate range, so that it can be easily discharged to the outside through the formulation dispenser (1) according to this example. It can have a structure that can be used.

One cartridge 401 may be combined with one discharge unit 402.

Therefore, under the control of the control unit 20, the operation of each discharge unit 402 can be performed individually and independently, and whether or not the formulation (T10) stored in each cartridge 401 is discharged and the number of discharges can be determined. .

The cartridge 401 may have a roughly circular cross-sectional shape and a cylindrical shape with a space for storing the dosage form (T10) therein, and may be coupled to the discharge unit 402 located at the bottom through a screw connection or the like. It can be.

The discharge unit 402 includes a housing 421 coupled to the cartridge 401, a discharge cap 422 coupled to the housing 421 at the bottom of the housing 421, and a space between the discharge cap 422 and the housing 421. It may be provided with a rotor unit 423 that is located and coupled to the discharge cap 422.

The housing 421 may include a main body 4211 and a storage guide protrusion 4212 protruding from a portion of the outer side of the main body 4211.

The main body 4211 has a circular planar shape with an empty space in the middle, and may have a cylindrical shape with both upper and lower ends open and extending in the third direction (z).

This body 4211 may form the outer wall of the housing 421 and may be provided with threads on the inner surface for coupling with the cartridge 401 located at the top. The main body 4211 can provide a sealed space inside so that a plurality of formulations stored in the cartridge 401 can be positioned on the rotor unit 423.

The first storage guide protrusion 4212 is for guiding the insertion direction of the formulation cartridge assembly 40 inserted into the cartridge storage port H52, and is a portion inserted into the storage guide port H521 of the cartridge storage port H52. It can be.

Therefore, the user determines the insertion direction of the formulation cartridge assembly 40 so that the first storage guide protrusion 4212 is inserted into the storage guide hole H521 of the corresponding cartridge storage hole H52, and then inserts the formulation cartridge into the corresponding cartridge storage hole H52. The assembly 40 can be inserted.

The discharge cap 422 may be combined with the housing 421 to block the open lower part of the opened main body 4211.

This discharge cap 422 includes a rotor insertion port (H421) located in the center, a discharge port (H422) located on a part of the edge having a multi-stage structure surrounding the rotor insertion port (H421), and a part of the edge protruding outward. It can be provided with a discharge pipe 424 that is seamlessly connected to the storage guide protrusion 4223 and the discharge port H422 and has an identification unit mounting port (H423) and extends toward the lower part.

The discharge port (H422) and the discharge pipe 424 provide a path for discharging the formulation (T10) moved along the outer periphery of the discharge cap 422 by the rotor unit 423 to the outside of the formulation cartridge assembly 40. can be provided. However, the discharge pipe 424 is not essential and may be omitted in some cases.

As shown in FIG. 5, the corresponding cartridge identification unit 131 may be mounted on the identification unit mounting hole (H423). The cartridge identification unit 131 may be used to identify the mounted formulation cartridge assembly 40 when the formulation cartridge assembly 40 is mounted in the cartridge storage port H52. That is, the present invention can obtain cartridge information about the formulation cartridge assembly 40 using the cartridge identification unit 131.

The cartridge information may include at least one of cartridge identification information for the formulation cartridge assembly or formulation information for the formulation stored in the formulation cartridge assembly.

The cartridge identification unit may be provided including any one of a memory chip, a passive element, an identification mark, a radio frequency identification (RFID) chip, and a near field communication (NFC) chip.

For example, when the cartridge identification unit 131 is provided in the form of a memory chip, the cartridge identification unit 131 can identify the cartridge when mounted on the identification unit mounting hole (H423) of the discharge cap 422, as shown in FIG. 4B. The terminal of the unit 131 may be exposed toward the bottom of the discharge cap 422.

At this time, the terminal (P131) of the cartridge identification unit 131 is for outputting identification information for the corresponding cartridge identification unit 131.

Since this cartridge identification unit 131 is mounted on the discharge cap 422 of the discharge unit 402, it can form a component of the corresponding formulation cartridge assembly 40.

For example, as shown in FIG. 6b, when the cartridge identification unit 131 is provided in the form of a memory chip, the cartridge identification unit 131 is mounted on the corresponding mounting unit located on the second circuit board (PCB2) through this terminal (P131). Electrical connection with the sensing unit 13 may be made.

For example, the terminal P131 of the cartridge identification unit 131 may be electrically connected to the corresponding mounting detection unit 13, and by this electrical connection, the cartridge identification unit 131 may be connected to the terminal P131. The corresponding signal can be output to the mounted detection unit 13.

Accordingly, the installation detection unit 13 may output a signal applied from the cartridge identification unit 131 to the control unit 20 through the terminal in a contact state. In order to electrically connect the cartridge identification unit 131 and the installation detection unit 13, the cartridge identification unit 131 and the installation detection unit 13 located in the same formulation cartridge assembly 40 face each other from opposite sides. can be located

Additionally, referring to FIG. 3, a formulation discharge detection unit 15 for determining the number of formulations discharged from the corresponding formulation cartridge assembly 40 may be located adjacent to the discharge pipe 424. Each of these formulation discharge detection units 15 may be mounted on the third circuit board (PCB3), as already described.

The rotor unit 423 is inserted into the rotor insertion unit H421 and can rotate forward or reverse along the edge of the discharge cap 422 to discharge the corresponding formulation.

For this purpose, a drive groove (G423) into which the drive shaft (A35) of the discharge drive unit (35) is inserted and engaged may be located at the lower part of the rotor unit (423), as shown in FIG. 4b.

The drive groove (G423) of each rotor unit 423 may be physically connected to the drive shaft A35 of the corresponding discharge drive unit 35. Accordingly, the rotor unit 423 can rotate in a determined direction by the operation of the discharge drive unit 35, which rotates in that direction under the control of the control unit 20, and the Discharge of (T10) can be achieved.

At this time, due to the rotational motion of the rotor unit 423, the formulation (T10) located within the housing 421 descends and rotates along the rotor unit 423, which has a substantially triangular pyramid shape, while reaching the discharge port (H422) of the discharge cap 422. ) can be discharged to the outside one by one.

This discharge unit 402 can perform the function of discharging the formulations T10 filled in the cartridge 401 one by one to the outside.

The present invention is not limited to the structure of the discharge unit 402 described with reference to FIGS. 4A to 5, and even if the structure of the discharge unit 402 is different from that shown, it can be used as long as the formulation (T10) is discharged one by one. It can also be applied to other structures.

In the discharge unit 402 of the formulation cartridge assembly 40 used in the present invention, the driving groove (G423) of the rotor portion 423 and the cartridge identification portion 131 are located on the same side of the formulation cartridge assembly 40. Can be exposed facing the same direction.

For example, as shown in Figure 4b, the driving groove (G423) of the rotor unit 423 and the cartridge identification unit 131 are located at the lower part of the dosage form cartridge assembly 40 or at the lower part of the dosage form cartridge assembly 40. It may be exposed toward a direction (for example, downward direction).

However, the present invention is not necessarily limited to this, and the driving groove (G423) of the rotor unit 423 may be located at the lower part of the dosage form cartridge assembly 40, but the cartridge identification unit 131 may be located at the lower part of the dosage form cartridge assembly 40. ) is also possible to be located on the side.

As described above, when each dosage form cartridge assembly 40 having the discharge unit 402 and the cartridge identification unit 131 is inserted into each cartridge storage port (H52) of the storage unit 52, each dosage form cartridge assembly 40 ), as shown in Figure 6a, one mounting detection unit 13 for identifying each dosage form cartridge assembly 40, one discharge drive unit 35 for driving the discharge unit of each dosage form cartridge assembly 40 ) and a formulation discharge detection unit 15 that detects the number of formulations T10 discharged from each formulation cartridge assembly 40, to form one formulation bottle unit BT10.

Each of the plurality of discharge driving units 35 may be connected to each dosage form cartridge assembly 40, and is used to control the rotational movement of the rotor unit 423 provided in the dosage form cartridge assembly 40, and also drives the motor. A motor driving circuit may be provided.

The plurality of discharge drivers 35 are located corresponding to each cartridge storage port H52 and may function to drive the discharge unit 402 so that the formulation is discharged from the formulation cartridge assembly 40. Accordingly, when the formulation cartridge assembly is inserted into the cartridge receptacle, the discharge driver may be coupled with the discharge unit.

Therefore, according to the control of the control unit 20, the rotor unit 423 can rotate forward or reverse by the corresponding discharge drive unit 35 connected to the rotor unit 423, and the rotation operation of the rotor unit 423 As a result, the dosage form (T10) stored in the corresponding dosage form cartridge assembly 40 can be discharged in a predetermined number.

As shown in FIGS. 3, 6A, and 6B, the plurality of mounting detection units 13 are located in each cartridge storage port (H52) and can perform the function of detecting the cartridge identification unit 131 of the formulation cartridge assembly. there is.

When the formulation cartridge assembly 40 is inserted and mounted in the cartridge storage hole H52, the mounting detection unit 13 may be located in a portion facing the cartridge identification unit 131 within the cartridge storage hole H52.

In the present invention, when the formulation cartridge assembly 40 is inserted into the cartridge storage port H52, the discharge drive unit 35 is coupled to the discharge unit and the installation detection unit 13 can detect the cartridge identification unit 131.

To this end, when the formulation cartridge assembly 40 is inserted into the cartridge storage hole (H52), the driving groove of the discharge unit is exposed in the insertion direction in which the formulation cartridge assembly 40 is inserted into the cartridge storage hole (H52), and the cartridge storage hole ( The drive shaft of the discharge drive unit 35 located within H52) may be positioned to face the drive groove of the discharge unit.

In addition, the cartridge identification portion 131 is provided on a portion of the formulation cartridge assembly 40 to be exposed in the insertion direction or toward a direction different from the insertion direction when the formulation cartridge assembly 40 is inserted into the cartridge storage hole H52. It can be.

For example, when the cartridge identification unit 131 is provided in a portion of the formulation cartridge assembly 40 to be exposed in the insertion direction (e.g., arrow direction in Figure 6b), the mounting detection unit 13 is inserted into the cartridge identification unit ( 131).

In this case, as shown in FIG. 6B, for example, the drive shaft of the installation detection unit 13 and the discharge drive unit 35 is exposed to the bottom surface of the cartridge storage hole H52, but is exposed in a direction opposite to the insertion direction. It can be provided.

If the recessed groove of the cartridge storage port (H52) is provided long in the vertical direction as shown in FIG. 3, the drive shafts of the mounting detection unit 13 and the discharge drive unit 35 are vertical to the bottom surface of the cartridge storage port (H52). It may be provided to be exposed.

However, unlike FIG. 3, when the recessed groove of the cartridge storage port (H52) is provided long in the horizontal direction, the drive shaft of the mounting detection unit 13 and the discharge drive unit 35 is horizontal on the bottom surface of the cartridge storage port (H52). It may be provided to be exposed.

As another example, when the cartridge identification unit 131 is provided in a portion of the formulation cartridge assembly 40 to be exposed in a direction other than the insertion direction, the installation detection unit 13 is located in the cartridge storage hole H52, but When the cartridge assembly 40 is completely inserted into the cartridge storage hole H52, it may be located in a portion facing the cartridge identification portion 131.

In FIG. 6A, the installation detection unit 13 is located in a portion corresponding to the cartridge identification unit within the cartridge storage port H52 and can be physically or electrically connected, and the discharge drive unit 35 is connected to the discharge unit through the drive shaft A35. It may be physically connected to the driving groove (G423) of 402, and the formulation discharge detection unit 15 may be located near the discharge pipe 424 of the discharge unit 402.

More specifically, the connection terminal of the drive shaft A35 of the discharge drive unit 35 and the installation detection unit 13 may be exposed in a direction facing the formulation cartridge assembly 40 from the bottom surface of the cartridge storage hole H52.

For example, as shown in Figure 6b, the connection terminal (P13) of the drive shaft (A35) of the discharge drive unit (35) and the installation detection unit (13) is located on the bottom surface of the cartridge storage port (H52) and faces upward. may be exposed to In addition, the formulation discharge detection unit 15 may be located at the lower part of the cartridge storage port (H52).

Accordingly, the formulation cartridge assembly 40 is inserted into the cartridge storage port H52 as shown in FIG. 6A, and the drive shaft A35 of the discharge drive unit 35 is inserted into the drive groove G425 of the discharge unit 402, as shown in FIG. 6B. As it is inserted into the inside, the terminal (P131) of the cartridge identification unit 131 naturally comes into contact with the connection terminal (P13) of the installation detection unit 13, and the installation detection unit 13 and the cartridge identification unit 131 are electrically connected to each other. can be connected

As the drive shaft A35 of the discharge driver 35 is inserted into the drive groove G423 of the discharge unit 402, the discharge pipe 424 of the formulation cartridge assembly 40 moves between the formulation discharge detection units 15. It can be located through.

Accordingly, in this embodiment, when the formulation (T10) is discharged through the discharge pipe 424, the number of formulations (T10) discharged in real time can be counted using the formulation discharge detection unit 15.

In Figure 6b, the case where the drive shaft A35 of the discharge drive unit 35 and the connection terminal P13 of the installation detection unit 13 are located on the bottom of the cartridge storage port H52 has been described as an example, but the present invention does not necessarily apply to this. It is not limited.

For example, when the drive groove (G423) of the rotor unit 423 is located at the bottom of the formulation cartridge assembly 40 and the cartridge identification unit 131 is located on the side, the discharge drive unit is located on the bottom of the cartridge storage port (H52). The drive shaft (A35) of (35) is located and the mounting detection unit 13 may be located on the side.

The main body 60 may be positioned to be attached to the rear of the formulation dispenser 1, and may include a cooling unit 33 for refrigerating the storage unit 52 where at least one formulation cartridge assembly 40 is located. A fan can be provided.

The cooling unit 33 and the cooling fan are intended to lower the temperature of the storage unit 50, and may be a Peltier cooler using a Peltier device. The cooling fan rotates by a motor, etc. to generate wind to unite the storage unit ( The temperature inside the storage unit 50 can be reduced and the heated air in the storage unit 50 can be discharged to the outside.

The pedestal 80 is located at the lower part of the storage unit 50 to enable the formulation dispenser 1 to be stably positioned in a designated position. As shown in FIG. 3, the base 80 is located at the bottom of the discharge unit 91 with an open bottom. It can be positioned facing the lower part.

Returning again to Figure 1, the components that make up the formulation dispenser 1 will be described in detail.

First, the communication unit 11 is for communication with other devices, such as an externally located management server 2, and may be provided with an Internet communication module 111 and a short-distance communication module 112.

The Internet communication module 111 refers to a module for wireless or wired Internet access. For example, using the Internet communication module 111, the dosage form dispenser 1 communicates with the externally located management server 2 to provide necessary data. Transmission and reception operations can be performed.

Internet technologies may include Wireless LAN (WLAN) (Wi-Fi network), Wireless broadband (Wibro), World Interoperability for Microwave Access (Wimax), or High Speed Downlink Packet Access (HSDPA).

The short-range communication module 112 refers to a module for short-range communication.

Near-field communication technologies include NFC, Bluetooth, RFID (Radio Frequency Identification), IrDA (infrared Data Association), UWB (Ultra Wideband), ZigBee, and magnetic or resonance induction methods. It can be.

The user input unit 12 is for inputting data or commands necessary for the operation of the dosage form dispenser 1, and may be a touch panel or an operation switch.

Information input to the control unit 20 through the user input unit 12 includes user identification information, user's current physical condition (e.g., information related to physical and mental state), and user basic information (e.g., age, gender, medical history, medications taken). , at least one of the occupations).

At this time, the basic user information can be input through the user input unit 12 of the dosage form dispenser 1, and is transmitted to the management server 2 by the control unit 20 of the dosage form dispenser 1 and stored in the user identification information in the database. Can be stored correspondingly.

In an alternative example, user identification information may be input to the control unit 20 through a short-range communication module 112, such as NFC or RFID, in which case the user may place a tag in his/her possession on the formulation dispenser ( 1) is placed on the reader (RD10) of the short-distance communication module 112 mounted on the tag so that the user identification information stored in the tag can be transmitted to the control unit 20 through the reader (RD10).

As already described, the plurality of mounting detection units 13 detect the state of each cartridge storage port (H52) and detect whether the formulation cartridge assembly 40 is normally mounted in the corresponding cartridge storage port (H52) to detect the corresponding cartridge storage port (H52). A status detection signal can be output.

Therefore, each mounting detection unit 13 generates a detection signal of the corresponding state depending on whether it is electrically and physically connected to the cartridge identification unit 131 mounted on the identification unit mounting hole (H423) of each formulation cartridge assembly 40. It can be transmitted to the control unit 20.

As an example, in the case of the formulation dispenser 1 according to this example, the cartridge identification unit 131 includes a memory chip that stores information about the formulation cartridge assembly 40 on which it is mounted, that is, cartridge information) It may be the same storage medium. At this time, the cartridge information stored in the cartridge identification unit 131 includes cartridge identification information, which is identification information of the corresponding dosage form cartridge assembly 40, and information about the dosage form contained in the corresponding dosage form cartridge assembly 40, that is, dosage form information. can do. At this time, the formulation information may be at least one of the type of formulation (e.g., vitamin C), the manufacturing date and time of the formulation, the distribution period of the formulation, the initial formulation quantity, and the current formulation remaining amount information of the corresponding cartridge assembly 40. Here, the current dosage remaining amount information may be the ratio of the currently remaining dosage form to the initial dosage quantity.

As such, when the cartridge identification unit 131 is a storage medium, the lower surface of the cartridge identification unit 131 has power terminals (GND, VCC) for power supply, a data terminal (DATA) for input and output of data, and a clock signal. An input clock terminal (CLK) may be located.

For connection with the mounting detection unit 13 located on the upper surface of the second circuit board (PCB2), the cartridge identification unit 131 is connected to a terminal at the bottom of the corresponding formulation cartridge assembly 40, as shown in FIGS. 4B and 6B. (GND, VCC, DATA, CLK) can be positioned to be exposed toward the mounted detection unit 13. Therefore, when the formulation cartridge assembly 40 is stored in the cartridge storage port H52, is lowered to a predetermined position through the cartridge storage port H52, and is normally mounted in the cartridge storage port H52, the corresponding cartridge identification units ( 131) and the mounting detection unit 13 may be electrically and physically connected.

Accordingly, the installation detection unit 13 can receive a signal corresponding to the information stored in the connected cartridge identification unit 131 and output it to the control unit 20, and the control unit 20 can control the installation detection unit ( Cartridge information for the corresponding formulation cartridge assembly 40 can be determined using the state of the signal transmitted from 13).

In this example, the mounting detection unit 13 may be provided with a connection terminal for connection to the terminals (VCC, GND, DATA, CLK) of the exposed cartridge identification unit 131, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 6B. You can.

This connection terminal can be positioned to be exposed toward the top of the upper surface of the mounting detection unit 13, and the terminals (GND, VCC, DATA, CLK) exposed on the lower surface of the cartridge identification unit 131 located on the opposite side. may be contacted.

The mounting detection unit 13 may have elasticity in the direction in which the formulation cartridge assembly 40 is inserted into the cartridge storage hole H52.

For example, as shown in FIG. 6B, when the cartridge identification unit 131 is provided in the form of a memory chip, the installation detection unit 13 may include a connection terminal P13 that is physically connected to the memory chip.

At this time, the connection terminal (P13) of the mounting detection unit 13 may be provided to protrude in a direction facing the direction in which the formulation cartridge assembly 40 is inserted. That is, the connection terminal P13 of the mounting detection unit 13 protrudes in a direction in contact with the cartridge identification unit 131, and may have elasticity that can be cushioned by a predetermined width in the protruding direction.

Therefore, while the formulation dispenser 1 is discharging the formulation, even if the formulation cartridge assembly 40 is slightly moved by the operation of the discharge drive unit 35, the connection between the mounting detection unit 13 and the cartridge identification unit 131 is not maintained. It can be prevented from being released.

Unlike this example, the cartridge identification unit 131 may be made of a passive element such as a resistor. In this case, the cartridge identification unit 131 simply identifies the corresponding dosage form cartridge assembly 40 using the value output from the passive element. Only cartridge identification information can be displayed.

In another example, the cartridge identification unit 131 may be made of an identification mark such as a QR code, a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag, or a near field communication (NFC) tag for wireless short-range communication. In this case, the mounting detection unit 13 may be an identification mark reader (e.g., a photographing device) or a tag reader (e.g., an RFID reader or an NFC reader), and may detect the cartridge information stored in the cartridge identification unit 131. It can be read and transmitted to the control unit 20.

In this way, when the installation detection unit 13 is a reader, the installation detection unit 13 can generate cartridge information using the information read from the cartridge identification unit 131 and then output it to the control unit 20.

Also, in another example, as shown in FIG. 6C, the cartridge identification unit 131 may be provided including a three-dimensional identification mark pattern (P131). Figure 6c (a) is a view before the formulation cartridge assembly 40 is mounted on the storage port H52, and Figure 6c (b) is a view after the formulation cartridge assembly 40 is mounted on the storage port H52.

As shown in FIG. 6C, when the cartridge identification unit 131 is provided including a three-dimensional identification mark pattern (P131), the three-dimensional identification mark pattern (P131) is attached to the formulation cartridge assembly 40 in the storage port (H52). It may have at least one identification mark protruding in the insertion direction.

For example, as shown in FIG. 6C, when there are a plurality of identification marks (Pt1 to Pt4) forming the identification mark pattern (P131), at least one identification mark among the plurality of identification marks (Pt1 to Pt4) is different from the remaining identification marks. It may be provided to protrude relatively more in the insertion direction (eg, arrow direction in the drawing). For example, in FIG. 6C, identification marks 1 and 3 (Pt1, Pt3) may protrude more in the insertion direction than identification marks 2 and 4 (Pt2, Pt4). For reference, in Figure 6c, the identification marks 2 and 4 (Pt2, Pt4) are shown as protruding at a relatively short length. However, this is an example for explanation, and the parts corresponding to the identification marks 2 and 4 (Pt2, Pt4) It is also possible to not protrude.

In this case, the mounting detection unit 13 may be provided with a plurality of push switches (sw1 to sw4) corresponding to each identification mark. Each of the plurality of push switches (sw1 to sw4) may be positioned to face each identification mark (Pt1 to Pt4).

Each of these push switches (sw1 to sw4) may be maintained in a turn-off state until the formulation cartridge assembly 40 is completely mounted in the storage port H52.

However, when the formulation cartridge assembly 40 is completely mounted in the storage port H52, at least one of each identification mark (Pt1 to Pt4) turns on at least one of the plurality of push switches (sw1 to sw4). This allows the formulation cartridge assembly 40 to be identified.

For example, when the formulation cartridge assembly 40 is completely mounted in the storage port H52, as shown in Figure 6c, the relatively more protruding identification marks 2 and 4 (Pt2, Pt4) are used to press the 2 and 4 push switches ( sw2, sw4) can be turned on, and the 1 and 3 push switches (sw1, sw3) corresponding to the relatively non-protruding identification marks 1 and 3 (Pt1, Pt3) can be turned off. Off) can be maintained continuously.

In this case, the installation detection unit 13 is activated according to the turn on of the push switches 2 and 4 (sw2, sw4) or the turn off of the push switches 1 and 3 (sw1, sw3). By generating a signal and outputting it to the control unit 20, the corresponding dosage form cartridge assembly 40 can be identified.

The temperature detection unit 14 detects the temperature inside the storage unit 52 or the housing 51 to control the rotation speed of the heat dissipation fan 321 and outputs a temperature detection signal of the corresponding state to the control unit 20. You can.

Accordingly, the control unit 20 controls the operation of the heat dissipation fan driving unit 32 and the operation of the cooling unit 33 to control whether or not the heat dissipation fan 321 rotates and the rotation speed, and operates the cooling unit 33. You can do it.

The plurality of formulation discharge detection units 15 may perform a function of counting the number of formulations discharged from the formulation cartridge assembly mounted in each cartridge storage port H52.

Each discharge detection unit may be located at the bottom of each of the plurality of cartridge storage ports (H52).

For example, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 6B, when the discharge unit is provided with a discharge pipe 424 extending in the lower direction of each cartridge storage port (H52), the discharge detection unit 15 may be located adjacent to the discharge pipe. You can.

Accordingly, as shown in Figure 6b, when the formulation cartridge assembly is mounted in the cartridge storage port (H52), the discharge pipe 424 may protrude outward in the lower direction of the cartridge storage port (H52), and the discharge detection unit may be connected to the cartridge storage port (H52). It may be located adjacent to a portion of the discharge pipe 424 protruding outward.

For example, as shown in FIG. 6B, when the discharge detection unit 15 includes a light emitting unit and a light receiving unit, the discharge pipe 424 may be located between the light emitting unit and the light receiving unit when the formulation cartridge assembly is mounted.

Therefore, when the formulation is discharged from each formulation cartridge assembly, the formulation discharge detection unit 15 detects the formulation (T10) discharged through the discharge pipe 424 and then outputs a signal according to whether the formulation is discharged to the control unit 20. Thus, the control unit 20 can count the number of formulations discharged from the corresponding formulation cartridge assembly 40.

Accordingly, each formulation discharge detection unit 15 may be located at or near the bottom of each cartridge assembly 40, as described with reference to FIG. 3 .

An example of this formulation discharge detection unit 15 can detect the discharged formulation T10 using light.

For this purpose, the formulation discharge detection unit 15 may be equipped with an optical sensor including a light emitting unit that emits light and a light receiving unit that receives light. In this case, the discharge pipe 424 is made of transparent plastic to provide light. This may be made of a transparent material that is transparent.

For example, the light emitting part may be a light emitting diode (LED), and the light receiving part may be a photo transistor.

Accordingly, the light emitting unit and the light receiving unit may be located on both sides of the discharge pipe 424 facing each other from opposite sides.

For this reason, when the formulation (T10) is discharged through the discharge pipe 424, the light receiving unit may be blocked by the discharged formulation (T10) and may not be able to receive the light output from the light emitting unit.

Due to this, the light receiving unit can output a signal of the corresponding state to the control unit 20 depending on whether or not light output from the light emitting unit is received, and the control unit 20 discharges the dosage form (T10) using the signal applied from the light receiving unit. Allows you to determine whether or not

The control unit 20 controls the overall operation of the formulation dispenser 1 and may be a processor.

For example, when the formulation cartridge assembly is inserted into the cartridge storage hole H52, the control unit 20 may obtain information through the installation detection unit. More specifically, the control unit 20 can determine cartridge information for each dosage form cartridge assembly 40 using a signal applied from each installation detection unit 13 and output it to the information output unit 31.

In addition, the control unit 20 uses the signal applied from each formulation discharge detection unit 15 to count the number of formulations discharged from the corresponding formulation cartridge assembly 40, and determines the number of formulations present in each formulation cartridge assembly 40. The number can be determined and updated in real time.

In addition, when user identification information and the user's current physical condition are input through the user input unit 12, etc., the control unit 20 transmits the input user identification information and current physical condition to the management server 2 through the communication unit 11. ) can be transmitted.

Accordingly, the management server 2 reads basic user information corresponding to the user identification information transmitted from the formulation dispenser 1 from a database, etc., performs formulation combination using the current body condition and basic user information, and then dispenses the formulation. The combination results can be transmitted to the formulation dispenser (1).

At this time, the dosage form combination result may be customized dosage form information suitable for the user's current physical condition, such as the type of dosage form to be currently taken, the dosage of the dosage form, etc.

In this way, when the formulation combination result is transmitted from the management server 2, the control unit 20 can control the operation of the corresponding discharge driver 35 in order to discharge the corresponding dosage form (T10) as a predetermined dose, and can also transmit The resulting formulation combination can be output to the information output unit 31.

In addition, the control unit 20 stores the current state of each dosage form cartridge assembly 40, for example, whether or not the dosage form cartridge assembly 40 is stored in each cartridge storage port H52, in each dosage form cartridge assembly 40 stored therein. It is possible to control the display of the type of dosage form, information on the current dosage remaining (%) of the dosage form cartridge assembly 40, etc. Image data related to the image related to the display data displayed by the information output unit 31 under the control of the control unit 20 may already be stored in the storage unit 37.

The operation of this control unit 20 will be described in detail below.

The information output unit 31 can output at least one of visual information and auditory information under the control of the control unit 20, and, as shown in FIG. 1, may include a display module 311 and an audio output module. You can.

The display module 311 displays an image corresponding to the image data output from the control unit 20 on the screen according to the operation of the control unit 20.

Because of this, the display module 311 can display images related to cartridge information and current status for each dosage form cartridge assembly 40, and dosage form combination results, etc., as already described.

The display module 311 includes at least one display device selected from a liquid crystal display, an organic light emitting diode display, a flexible display, and a 3D display. .

When the display module 311 is made of a touch panel, the display module 311 of this example functions as an input device such as the user input unit 12 in addition to an output device that outputs images.

As such, the touch panel PL10 having the functions of the display module 311 and the user input unit 12 may be located at the top of the formulation dispenser 1, for example, on the top cover 55, as shown in FIG. 3. You can.

The touch panel PL10 may display buttons for inputting data (e.g., user basic information, user identification information, and user's current physical condition) required to control the operation of the dosage form dispenser 1.

A reader (RD10) that can input user identification information using an RFID tag or NFC tag may be located in the touch panel (PL10).

The audio output module outputs an audio signal output from the control by the operation of the control unit 20 as a voice. At this time, the information output as a voice may be at least some of the information output to the display module 311, such as cartridge information and current status for each formulation cartridge assembly 40, and formulation combination results.

In this way, since the user can check information related to the formulation dispenser 1 not only visually but also through hearing, user convenience can be improved.

This sound output module 252 may be equipped with a speaker, etc.

The heat radiation fan driver 32 drives the heat radiation fan 321 mounted on the formulation dispenser 1 to maintain an appropriate temperature inside the formulation dispenser 1, and the cooling unit 33 also operates the formulation dispenser 1. It is mounted inside to adjust the internal temperature of the formulation dispenser (1).

At this time, the heat dissipation fan driving unit 32 is used to rotate the heat dissipation fan 321 and may be provided with a motor and a motor drive circuit that controls the operation of the motor.

Accordingly, the control unit 20 determines that the temperature detected by the temperature sensing unit 14 in a state where the sealing unit 341 blocks the discharge passage (P91) of the externally connected (i.e., communicating) discharge unit 91 When the temperature increases above the set temperature, the heat dissipation fan driver 32 and the cooling unit 33 are driven to maintain the internal temperature of the formulation dispenser 1 below the set temperature.

As a result, problems such as damage to the formulation (T10) stored in the formulation cartridge assembly (40), which is a closed space, or loss of efficacy due to temperature do not occur.

The sealing unit driving unit 34 is for driving the sealing unit 341 and may also include a motor and a motor driving circuit that drives the motor.

In this example, before discharging the corresponding formulation from at least one of the plurality of formulation cartridge assemblies 40 according to the result of the formulation combination, the sealing portion 341 moves in a predetermined direction to block the discharge passage of the discharge portion 91 ( Open P91). Due to this, the formulation (T10) discharged from the corresponding formulation cartridge assembly 40 can flow into the collection cup located at the bottom of the discharge portion 91.

To this end, before controlling the formulation discharge operation from the formulation cartridge assembly 40 corresponding to the formulation combination result, the control unit 20 first outputs a drive signal to the sealing drive unit and moves the corresponding motor in a predetermined direction (e.g., clockwise). It can be rotated. Accordingly, by the operation of this sealing drive unit, the sealing unit 341 rises to a predetermined position and opens the discharge passage P91 of the discharge unit 91.

When the formulation discharging operation from all formulation cartridge assemblies 40 corresponding to the formulation combination result is completed, the control unit 20 outputs a driving signal of the corresponding state to the sealing drive again and operates the motor in the opposite direction (e.g., counterclockwise). ) can be rotated to lower the sealing part 341 to a predetermined position. Accordingly, due to the lowering operation of the sealing portion 341, the discharge passage P91 of the discharge portion 91, which was maintained in an open state, may be closed by the sealing portion 341.

The plurality of mounting state display units 36 may display whether the corresponding formulation cartridge assembly 40 is normally stored in the cartridge storage port H52.

Accordingly, the control unit 20 can determine whether the dosage form cartridge assembly 40 is stored in each cartridge storage hole H52 using the signal applied from each installation detection unit 13, and according to the determination result. It is possible to determine whether or not the corresponding mounting status indicator lights up.

Accordingly, each mounting state display unit may remain lit or unlit depending on the state of the signal applied from the control unit 20.

For this reason, if the dosage form cartridge assembly 40 is normally inserted into the cartridge storage hole H52 of the storage unit 52, the mounting state indicator corresponding to the inserted dosage form cartridge assembly 40 may light up.

In this example, the portion of the receiving portion 52 located at the upper portion of each of the plurality of mounting status display portions has a number corresponding to the number of each corresponding formulation cartridge assembly 40 (i.e., the corresponding cartridge receiving port H52) For example, 1 to 8) are printed, and the part where the numbers are printed may be made of a transparent material that allows light to pass through. Therefore, when the mounting status indicator located below the printed number remains illuminated, light passes through the transparent number portion, so the number (e.g., 2) corresponding to the mounted formulation cartridge assembly 40 is in a luminous state. can be maintained.

As a result, a user or manager can easily visually check the type of dosage form cartridge assembly 40 stored in the storage unit 52 using the illuminated numbers.

In contrast, the lighting color of the corresponding mounting status display unit may be different depending on whether the dosage form cartridge assembly 40 is normally stored in the corresponding cartridge storage port H52.

For example, if the corresponding dosage form cartridge assembly 40 is normally mounted in the cartridge storage port H52, the corresponding mounting status display unit may emit light of a first color (eg, green). Conversely, if the corresponding formulation cartridge assembly 40 is not properly installed in the cartridge storage port H52 or is empty, the mounting status display corresponding to the cartridge storage port H52 is in a predetermined second color (e.g., red) different from the first color. Can emit light.

Each of these mounting state display units may be provided with a light emitting unit such as a light emitting diode, and as already described, the number of mounting status display units may be equal to the number of cartridge storage ports H52.

In this example, each of the plurality of mounting detection units 13 and each of the plurality of mounting status display units located in each formulation cartridge assembly 40 are directly connected to the control unit 20.

However, in a typical example, a data selection circuit such as a multiplexer is provided between the plurality of mounting detection units 13 and the control unit 20 and between the control unit 20 and the plurality of mounting status display units. It is additionally located to control the connection state between the plurality of mounting detection units 13 and the control unit 20 and between the control unit 20 and the plurality of mounting status display units. In this case, the number of wires is greatly reduced, so manufacturing costs are reduced and circuit design can be easier and more simplified.

The storage unit 37 may be a storage medium such as a memory in which data for controlling the operation of each dosage form cartridge assembly 40 and data generated during the operation are stored. Accordingly, the control unit 20 can control the operation of the formulation dispenser 1 using the data stored in the storage unit 37.

The management server 2 that communicates with the dosage form dispenser 1 contains basic user information for each user using the dosage form dispenser 1, a driving program for operating the dosage form dispenser 1, and a program for combination of dosage forms. It is mounted and can perform the corresponding operation.

This management server 2 may also include a communication unit for communication with the formulation dispenser 1, a control unit that is a processor that controls operations, and a storage unit.

Next, referring to FIGS. 7 to 12C, the operation of the information output device of the formulation dispenser 1 having this structure will be described.

First, with reference to FIG. 7 , the operation of the control unit 20 when the dosage form cartridge assembly 40 is mounted on the receiving part 52 of the dosage form dispenser 1 will be described.

When the user opens the upper cover 55 of the dosage form dispenser 1 and inserts the dosage form cartridge assembly 40 into the cartridge storage hole H52 to properly mount the dosage form cartridge assembly 40, the control unit 20 detects each installation unit. (13) can be used to determine whether the formulation cartridge assembly 40 is stored in each cartridge storage port H52.

Accordingly, the control unit 20 reads the signal applied from each mounting detection unit 13 (S11) and uses the state of the read signal to determine whether the formulation cartridge assembly 40 among the plurality of cartridge storage ports H52 is properly mounted. It is possible to determine which cartridge storage port (H52) is present and which cartridge storage port (H52) is not (S12).

At this time, the cartridge identification unit 131 that maintains contact with the corresponding mounting detection unit 13 includes a storage medium such as a memory chip, an identification mark such as a QR code, or a short-range communication module 112 such as RFID or NFC. In this case, the control unit 20 detects the cartridge identification unit 131 of the formulation cartridge assembly 40 stored in the corresponding cartridge storage port (H52) through the installation detection unit 13 or an information reader (e.g., a camera or RIFD reader). Cartridge information (eg, cartridge identification information and formulation information) transmitted from can be received and stored in the storage unit 37 (S13).

Then, the control unit 20 may drive a corresponding mounting state display portion corresponding to the mounted dosage form cartridge assembly 40 among the plurality of mounting state display portions.

Thereafter, when the user closes the upper cover 55 of the formulation dispenser 1, the display module 311 and the voice output module 312 of the information output unit 31 use the data stored in the storage unit 37. The formulation cartridge installation status displaying the installation status of the formulation cartridge assembly 40 and the determined cartridge information corresponding to the current installation state of the formulation cartridge assembly 40 may be output to at least one of the formulation cartridges (S14).

At this time, since the video data and audio data related to the dosage form cartridge installation status are already stored in the storage unit 37, the control unit 20 uses the data stored in the storage unit 37 to determine the current storage unit 52. At least one of video and audio can be output to show the dosage form cartridge installation status appropriate for the condition.

For example, the control unit 20 uses cartridge information (e.g., cartridge identification information and formulation information) transmitted from the cartridge identification unit 131 of the formulation cartridge assembly 40 to control the upper cover of the formulation dispenser 1 ( When 55) is closed, the closure of the upper cover 55 is detected and the touch panel PL10 located on the upper cover 55 displays the type of formulation (e.g., filled in the newly inserted formulation cartridge assembly 40), as shown in FIG. , Vitamin C) and information about the location number (e.g., number 2) of the cartridge storage port (H52) can be displayed as a pop-up image.

Additionally, when the pop-up image disappears, the formulation dispenser 1 may provide a formulation cartridge installation display screen showing the formulation cartridge installation status, as shown in (a) of FIG. 11.

Referring to (a) of FIG. 11, the formulation cartridge installation display screen displays a cartridge storage hole shape image (e.g., circular shape) (IM11) identical to the arrangement of the cartridge storage hole (H52) currently arranged in the storage portion (52). The information displayed in the shape image (IM11) of each cartridge storage port (H52) may vary depending on whether or not the current formulation cartridge is installed.

That is, as shown in (a) of FIG. 11, the shape image (IM11) of the cartridge storage port (H52) corresponding to the storage port (52) in which the formulation cartridge assembly 40 is not mounted includes the number (example) of the cartridge storage port (H52). , 1, 2, 5~8) can be displayed.

However, the shape image (IM11) of the cartridge storage port (H52) corresponding to the storage port (52) on which the formulation cartridge assembly 40 is mounted includes not only the number (e.g., 3, 4) of the cartridge storage port (H52) but also the mounted formulation cartridge. Formulation information about the assembly 40, for example, type of formulation (e.g., vitamin C, milk thistle) and current formulation remaining amount information (e.g., 90%, 35%) may be displayed.

In addition, at the bottom of the formulation cartridge installation display screen, the current remaining formulation information of the type of formulation related to the currently mounted formulation cartridge assembly 40 is displayed as a graph image (IM12).

In an alternative example, when the cartridge identification unit 131 is made of a passive element such as a resistor, the control unit 20 uses a signal applied from the installation detection unit 13 to insert the corresponding dosage form cartridge assembly into the cartridge storage port H52. It is possible to determine whether or not 40 is mounted and identification information (i.e., cartridge identification information) of the mounted formulation cartridge assembly 40.

In this case, the control unit 20 uses the state of the signal applied from each installation detection unit 13 to determine the cartridge identification information of the loaded dosage form cartridge assembly 40 and the data stored in the storage unit 37. Data (e.g., cartridge information) corresponding to the determined cartridge identification information can be read and output to the information output unit 31.

Additionally, in an alternative example, the control unit 20 may receive and output data corresponding to the cartridge identification information from the management server 2 instead of reading it from the storage unit 37. To this end, the control unit 20 may transmit the determined cartridge identification information to the management server 2 through the communication unit 11, and the control unit of the management server 2 may transmit data (e.g., data corresponding to the transmitted cartridge identification information). Formulation information) can be read from a database or storage unit and transmitted to the formulation dispenser (1). Accordingly, the control unit 20 of the formulation dispenser 1 may output data (eg, formulation information) transmitted from the management server 2 through the communication unit 11 to the information output unit 31.

Next, with reference to FIGS. 8A and 8B, the operation of the formulation dispenser 1 will be described.

First, the control unit 20 can output a user identification screen (SC21) for user identification to the information output unit 31 using the data stored in the storage unit 37 (S21).

FIG. 12A shows an example of the user identification screen SC21. As shown in FIG. 12a, the user identification screen (SC21) may display a user image (IM211) that displays the user's name and photo, including guests, and a search box (WD21) that can search for the user. there is.

Accordingly, the user can input his or her identification information (eg, user identification information) using the user input unit 12 or the short-range communication module 112 (eg, NFC or RFID) of the communication unit 11.

When user identification information is input through the user input unit 12 or communication unit 11, the control unit 20 determines the input user identification information and then transmits it to the management server 2 through the communication unit 11. (S22).

The management server 2 may store the user identification information transmitted from the dosage form dispenser 1 in the storage unit 37 .

In addition, when the user identification information is determined (S22), the control unit 20 outputs a body condition selection screen (SC22) where the user's current body condition determined using the data stored in the storage unit 37 can be selected. You can do it (S23). An example of this body state selection screen SC22 is shown in FIG. 12B.

At this time, the body condition selection screen can display information about the current user (e.g. name) (IM221) and images of various items (IM222) that can be selected by the user, and these items (IM222) are largely divided into condition, It can be categorized into symptoms, women's health, and mood.

Accordingly, the user can use the user input unit 12 to select an item suitable for his or her current physical state from among various items displayed on the physical state selection screen SC22.

When such a user's selection action is made, the control unit 20 can read the signal input from the user input unit 12, determine the item selected by the user, and store it in the storage unit 37, and select the current body condition. The item is output as an image to the information output unit 31 so that the user can confirm the item he or she has selected (S24).

Once selection of an item suitable for the current body condition is completed using the user input unit 12, the control unit 20 displays a formulation combination start request screen (SC23) for combining a formulation suitable for the user's current body condition, as shown in FIG. 12C. ) can be output (S25).

As shown in FIG. 12C, the formulation combination start request screen (SC23) contains information about the current user (IM231), items selected by the current user according to his/her body condition (IM232), and 'Start combination' requesting the start of formulation combination. A 'button (BT321)' and a 'Reselect' button (BT232) can be provided to reselect the item corresponding to the physical condition. In addition, the formulation combination start request screen may also display a body condition item (IM233) frequently selected by the user using data stored in the storage unit 37.

At this time, the physical condition item (IM233) frequently selected by the user may be information transmitted from the management server 2. To this end, when user identification information for a user who wants to use the formulation dispenser 1 is transmitted, the management server 2 uses data corresponding to the user identification information in a database, etc. to send a predetermined period of time (e.g., 1 month) from the present. Before), the items selected by the user can be extracted as data about the frequently selected body condition and then transmitted to the dosage form dispenser (1).

In this way, when the formulation combination start screen (SC23) is displayed on the information output unit 31, the user selects the 'start combination' button (BT231) using the user input unit 12 to select the dosage form suitable for the currently selected body condition. You can allow a combination to be made or use the 'Reselect' button (BT232) to reselect your current body condition.

Therefore, if it is determined that a signal for the 'reselect' button (BT232) is input from the user input unit 12, the control unit 20 proceeds to step S23 and displays the physical state selection screen to the information output unit 31. (SC22) can be output.

However, when it is determined that a signal for the 'combination start' button (BT231) is input from the user input unit 12 (S26), the control unit 20 selects the current body state selected by the current user through the communication unit 11. Information about the item can be transmitted to the management server (2) (S27). At this time, the control unit 20 may also transmit user identification information.

Accordingly, the control unit of the management server 2 stores information on the transmitted body condition current selection item in the storage, and user basic information corresponding to the user identification information stored in a database, etc. and the transmitted body condition current selection item. Using , a formulation combination operation can be performed to derive a combination of formulations suitable for the current user's body condition, thereby deriving a formulation combination result. At this time, the results of the formulation combination may be the type and discharge amount (e.g., discharge number), administration method, and single dose of the formulation to be currently taken. At this time, the method of administration includes breakfast, lunch, dinner, or before bedtime, on an empty stomach, before a meal, after a meal, or between meals.

Then, the control unit of the management server 2 may transmit the selected dosage form combination result to the dosage form dispenser 1 through the communication unit 11.

Accordingly, the control unit 20 of the formulation dispenser 1 receives the formulation combination result transmitted from the management server 2 (S28), and selects at least one formulation containing the formulation T10 belonging to the formulation combination result. The discharge operation of the formulation cartridge assembly 40 can be controlled so that the number of formulations (T10) appropriate for the discharge amount can be discharged from the cartridge assembly 40 (S29).

The formulation ejection control operation of the control unit 20 for discharging the formulation T10 from the corresponding formulation cartridge assembly 40 will be described in detail below with reference to FIGS. 9A and 9B.

In this way, when the operation of discharging the formulation by the predetermined discharge amount from the corresponding formulation cartridge assembly 40 is completed (S29), the control unit 20 stores the current formulation cartridge assembly 40 stored in the storage unit 37. The remaining amount information can be updated and additionally transmitted to the management server 2 through the communication unit 11 (S210).

In addition, when the cartridge identification unit 131 is a storage medium such as a memory chip that can be read as well as written, the control unit 20 performs a write operation of the newly calculated current dosage remaining amount information to the cartridge identification unit 131 and performs a write operation on the cartridge. The formulation information stored in the identification unit 131 is also ensured to be stored correctly according to the current state.

In step S210, when the current dosage remaining amount information is transmitted from the dosage form dispenser 1, the control unit 20 of the management server 2 sends the product to the corresponding dosage form dispenser 1 assembly determined using the cartridge identification information transmitted together. The current formulation remaining amount information can be updated with the transmitted current formulation remaining amount information.

Then, the control unit 20 outputs the updated current dosage remaining amount information to the information output unit 31 (e.g., display module 311) (S211), allowing managers, etc. to check the current dosage information for the dosage form cartridge assembly 40. Make sure you can accurately check the remaining dosage information.

Next, the control unit 20 may determine whether a formulation cartridge assembly 40 having a current formulation remaining amount information less than a set value exists among the current formulation remaining amount information for each formulation cartridge assembly 40 (S212).

If there is a formulation cartridge assembly 40 whose current formulation remaining amount information is lower than the set value, the control unit 20 sends at least one of the cartridge identification information and formulation information for the corresponding formulation cartridge assembly 40 to the information output unit 31. Can be printed (S213).

For example, if the number of formulations in any one of the formulation cartridge assemblies 40 mounted in the cartridge storage port (H52) is lower than the set value, a mark indicating that the remaining amount of the formulation cartridge assembly 40 is insufficient. This formulation can be displayed on the cartridge loading display screen.

More specifically, as shown in Figure 11 (b), when the remaining amount information of the omega-3 formulation in the 8th cartridge storage port (H52) is lower than the threshold, the control unit 20 displays an image representing the 8th cartridge storage port (H52) IM11) can be displayed differently from the image (IM11) of another cartridge storage port (H52) with sufficient remaining capacity.

For example, the circular image area representing the 8th cartridge storage port (H52) may be displayed in a different color, the size or color of the text representing the remaining amount information may be displayed differently, and the circular image representing the cartridge storage opening (H52) may display a lack of remaining amount. A separate mark indicating may be displayed.

Because of this, the user can easily replenish the corresponding dosage form (T10) or replace it with a new dosage form cartridge assembly (40) using the information output from the information output unit 31.

Additionally, when the formulation ejection operation for all formulation cartridge assemblies 40 related to the selected formulation combination result is completed (S214), the control unit 20 may determine that all formulation ejection operations for the current user have been completed. Accordingly, the control unit 20 outputs a driving signal of the corresponding state to the sealing unit driving unit 34 so that the sealing unit 341 can close the discharge passage P91 of the discharge unit 91 (S215).

In this way, when the formulation discharge operation in all formulation cartridge assemblies 40 related to the formulation combination result is completed, the discharge passage P91 of the discharge portion 91 is closed, so that the formulation cartridge assembly 40 is discharged through the discharge portion 91. ) It can prevent foreign substances such as dust and moisture from entering the interior.

Next, when the discharge passage (P91) of the discharge portion (91) is blocked by the sealing portion (341), the control portion (20) reads the signal applied from the temperature sensing portion (14) and detects the inside of the formulation dispenser (1). The temperature can be determined (S216).

Therefore, when the determined internal temperature is higher than the set temperature (e.g., the first set temperature) (S217), the control unit 20 outputs a drive signal to the cooling fan driver and the cooling unit 33 (S218), respectively, to The cooling unit 33 is operated to perform a cooling operation on the formulation dispenser 1.

When the temperature detected by the temperature detection unit 14 falls below the set temperature (e.g., the second set temperature) due to the operation of the cooling fan and the cooling unit 33 (S219), the control unit 20 turns on the cooling fan. The output of the driving signal applied to the driving unit and the cooling unit 33 can be stopped (S220). At this time, the second set temperature may be lower than the first set temperature.

In this example, the control unit 20 determines the state of the sealing unit 341, that is, whether the discharge passage P91 of the discharge unit 91 is closed, the measured internal temperature of the formulation dispenser 1, and the cooling fan and cooling unit ( Whether or not 33) is driven can also be output through the information output unit 31. In this case, the manager of the formulation dispenser 1, etc. can check the operating state of the formulation dispenser 1 using the output contents of the information output unit 31.

In this way, according to this example, the operating state of the formulation dispenser 1, the state of the storage unit 52, the current state of the contained formulation cartridge assembly 40, etc. can be output to the information output unit 31 in real time. Therefore, the user and the manager can easily and quickly determine the current operating state of the formulation dispenser 1 and the current state of the formulation cartridge cooking body.

Therefore, if the amount of the stored dosage form remains below the set amount, the manager can replenish the relevant dosage form (T10) and also perform inspections on the dosage form cartridge assembly 40 that is not performing the ejection operation normally. can do.

In addition, users can check the combination of dosage forms that suit their current physical condition and prevent side effects caused by taking a dosage form that does not suit their physical condition and taking the wrong dosage.

Next, referring to FIGS. 9A and 9B, the control operation of the formulation cartridge assembly 40 that discharges the corresponding formulation (T10) according to the formulation combination result will be described.

First, the control unit 20 may determine the dosage form cartridge assembly 40 to be operated using the transmitted dosage form combination and the driving information (i.e., the number of forward rotations of the rotor unit) of the corresponding dosage form cartridge assembly 40 ( S31).

At this time, the control unit 20 can determine which formulation cartridge assembly 40 is to be operated according to the type of the discharged formulation, and can determine driving information of the rotor unit 423 according to the discharge amount of the corresponding formulation being discharged.

Since the control unit 20 can already know the number of formulations discharged in one rotation, the number of rotations (for example, rotation in the forward direction) of the rotor unit 423 for discharging a determined number of formulations according to the discharge amount of the formulation number) can be calculated.

In this way, when the formulation cartridge assembly 40 to discharge the corresponding formulation (T10) is determined and the driving information of the rotor unit 423 for each formulation cartridge assembly 40 is determined, the control unit 20 For the discharge operation (e.g., forward rotation operation) of the rotor portion 423 of the cartridge assembly 40, a forward rotation drive signal is applied during the forward rotation time (e.g., first forward rotation time) corresponding to the determined number of forward rotations. It can be output to the corresponding discharge driver 35 (S32). Accordingly, the rotor unit 423 of the dosage form cartridge assembly 40 rotates forward according to the rotational operation of the discharge drive unit 35 to discharge the dosage form T10 toward the discharge unit 91.

In this example, the rotation speed of the rotor unit 423 is already fixed, so once the number of forward rotations or reverse rotations is determined, the corresponding reverse rotation time and forward rotation time can also be easily calculated.

In this way, when the rotor unit 423 starts to rotate normally, the control unit 20 (1023) reads the detection signal applied from the formulation discharge detection unit 15 and determines the current discharge number of the corresponding type of formulation (T10). After calculating, it can be stored in the storage unit 37 (S33).

This operation of calculating the current discharge number may continue while the forward rotation operation of the rotor unit 423 is performed.

Next, when the output of the forward rotation drive signal is completed for a time corresponding to the determined number of forward rotations (S34), the control unit 20 determines the current discharge number stored in the storage unit 37 (1024), that is, during the corresponding time. It can be determined whether the total number of dispensed formulations (T10) of the corresponding type is equal to the set number (S35). At this time, the set number may be determined according to the dosage for the corresponding type of formulation (T10) and stored in the storage unit 37.

If the current number of discharges is equal to the set number (S35), the control unit 20 may determine that the corresponding type of dosage form (T10) has been normally discharged at the predetermined dosage. Accordingly, the control unit 20 may reset the current discharge number to '0' (S36) and then proceed to the return step (S300).

However, if the current number of discharges does not reach the set number (S35), that is, if the formulation (T10) of the corresponding type (T10) is not discharged as much as the set dose, the control unit 20 detects clogging of the discharge port (H422) or overlapping with each other. It can be determined that smooth discharge of the formulation is not achieved due to the plurality of formulations (T10) being positioned in an appropriate manner.

Accordingly, the control unit 20 rotates the rotor unit 423 in the reverse direction for a predetermined period of time and then performs a forward rotation operation again to enable the insufficient number of formulations to be discharged.

To this end, the control unit 20 can read the number of reverse rotations of the rotor unit 423 using data stored in the storage unit 37 and calculate the reverse rotation time of the rotor unit 423 (S37) ). In this example, the number of reverse rotations for one reverse rotation control may already be determined.

In this example, the reverse rotation time for one reverse rotation control is calculated using the number of reverse rotations, but in an alternative example, the reverse rotation time for one reverse rotation control is directly stored in the storage unit 37 ( 1024).

Then, the control unit 20 sends a control signal of the corresponding state to the discharge driver 35 in order to perform reverse rotation of the rotor unit 423 during the reverse rotation time for the corresponding reverse rotation control. It can be printed during (S38). At this time, the control unit 20 may increase the reverse rotation control count (initial value = 0) by '1' and store it in the storage unit 37 (S38).

Accordingly, the rotor unit 423 can perform a reverse rotation operation for a set reverse rotation time under the control of the discharge driver 35.

In this example, when the rotor unit 423 rotates in reverse, the formulation T10 present in the discharge unit 402 is not discharged, and the formulation T10 can be normally discharged only when the rotor unit 423 rotates forward.

In this way, after the reverse rotation drive signal is output for a predetermined reverse rotation time, the control unit 20 determines the number of forward rotations of the rotor unit 423 again and calculates the forward rotation time (e.g., the second forward rotation time). After that, the forward rotation drive signal can be output to the discharge driver 35 (1025) during the calculated second forward rotation time (S39).

At this time, the number of forward rotations of the rotor unit 423 may be determined by the number calculated by subtracting the current discharge number from the set number, that is, the number of formulations to be additionally discharged. Accordingly, the second forward rotation time may be shorter than the first forward rotation time.

In step S39, after outputting a forward rotation drive signal for additional discharge of insufficient dosage form to the discharge driver 35, the control unit 20 reads the detection signal applied from the dosage form discharge detection unit 15 to additionally dispense the dosage form. It can be determined whether the discharge of (T10) has occurred, and accordingly, the total current discharge number can be calculated and stored in the storage unit 37 (S310). At this time, the current total number of discharges may be the total number of formulations (T10) discharged during the total forward rotation time (e.g., first forward rotation time + second forward rotation time) after the discharge operation of the formulation starts.

Next, after the forward rotation of the rotor unit 423 is performed for the forward rotation time determined in step S39 (S311), the drive control unit 20 (1023) determines the current total discharge number stored in the storage unit 37. It can be determined whether the set number has been reached (S312).

If the current total number of discharges is equal to the set number (S312), the control unit 20 determines that the corresponding type of dosage form (T10) has been normally discharged at the specified dosage and resets the current total number of discharges to '0' ( S313), you can proceed to the return step (S300).

However, if the current total number of discharges does not reach the set number (S312), that is, if the insufficient number of formulations is not discharged properly, the control unit 20 determines whether the current number of reverse rotation controls has reached the set number. You can (S314).

In this example, the current reverse rotation control count may be the total number of times the reverse rotation drive signal is output after the first forward rotation drive signal for discharging the corresponding formulation (T10) is output as a result of the formulation combination, so the control unit 20 can increase the current reverse rotation control count by '1' each time reverse rotation control ends.

Therefore, if the current reverse rotation control count does not reach the set number (S314), the control unit 20 proceeds to step S37 and sets the rotor unit 423 for the next (e.g., second) reverse rotation control count. Reverse rotation can be controlled.

However, when the current reverse rotation control count reaches the set number (S314), the control unit 20 may determine that the formulation cartridge assembly 40 is not properly discharging the formulation due to a clogging phenomenon or the like.

Therefore, the control unit 20 can read the error message stored in the storage unit 37 and output it to the information output unit 31, and additionally transmit it to the management server 2 etc. through the communication unit 11 to output it. You can do it (S315).

Therefore, the user can use the error message output to the information output unit 31 to recognize which formulation cartridge assembly 40 is currently not discharging the formulation normally, so that the status of the corresponding formulation cartridge assembly 40 can be determined. can be checked.

For this reason, if the dosage form (T10) is not discharged at the prescribed dosage, the control unit 20 repeats the reverse rotation and forward rotation operation of the rotor unit 423 a set number of times to discharge the dosage form (T10). By allowing additional discharge, the amount of formulation (T10) corresponding to the formulation combination result can be discharged normally.

The technical features disclosed in each embodiment of the present invention are not limited to the corresponding embodiment, and unless they are incompatible with each other, the technical features disclosed in each embodiment may be combined and applied to other embodiments.

Therefore, in each embodiment, each technical feature is mainly explained, but unless the technical features are incompatible with each other, they can be applied in combination with each other.

The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments and the accompanying drawings, and various modifications and variations will be possible from the perspective of those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains. Therefore, the scope of the present invention should be determined not only by the claims of this specification but also by equivalents to these claims.

Claims (19)

a storage unit including a plurality of cartridge storage ports into which a dosage form cartridge assembly is inserted and mounted, the dosage form being stored therein, a discharge unit for discharging the dosage form, and a cartridge identification unit;
a plurality of mounting detection units located in each cartridge storage port and detecting the cartridge identification unit of the formulation cartridge assembly;
a plurality of discharge drivers located in each cartridge storage port and driving the discharge unit to discharge the formulation from the formulation cartridge assembly; and
It includes a control unit connected to the installation detection unit and the discharge driver, and obtaining information through the installation detection unit and controlling the discharge driver,
When the formulation cartridge assembly is inserted into the cartridge storage hole, the discharge driver is coupled to the discharge unit and the installation detector detects the cartridge identification portion. According to claim 1,
The driving groove of the discharge unit is exposed in an insertion direction in which the formulation cartridge assembly is inserted into the cartridge storage hole,
A dosage form dispenser wherein the drive shaft of the discharge drive unit is located in a portion of the cartridge storage port facing the drive groove of the dosage form cartridge assembly to be inserted. According to clause 2,
The cartridge identification portion is exposed in the insertion direction or in a direction different from the insertion direction,
The mounting detection unit is located in a portion of the cartridge receptacle facing the cartridge identification portion of the formulation cartridge assembly being inserted, or is located in a portion of the cartridge receptacle facing the cartridge identification portion when the formulation cartridge assembly is mounted within the cartridge receptacle. Positioned dosage form dispenser. According to claim 1,
In the formulation cartridge assembly, the cartridge identification portion and the driving groove of the discharge unit are positioned to be exposed in the insertion direction in which the formulation cartridge assembly is inserted,
The drive shaft of the installation detection unit and the discharge drive unit is positioned to face the cartridge identification unit of the formulation cartridge assembly and the drive groove of the discharge unit,
As the dosage form cartridge assembly is inserted, the drive shaft of the discharge drive unit is inserted and coupled to the drive groove of the discharge unit, and the installation detection unit faces the cartridge identification unit. According to clause 4,
Each cartridge storage port is provided to extend long in the insertion direction,
A formulation dispenser wherein the mounting detection unit and the drive shaft of the discharge driving unit are exposed to the bottom surface of the cartridge storage port. According to clause 4,
A formulation dispenser wherein the mounting detection unit has elasticity in the insertion direction and is electrically or physically connected to the cartridge identification unit. According to claim 1,
A formulation dispenser wherein the plurality of cartridge storage ports are further provided with a plurality of formulation discharge detection units that count the number of formulations discharged from the formulation cartridge assembly mounted in each cartridge storage port. According to clause 7,
A formulation dispenser wherein each formulation discharge detection unit is located at the bottom of each cartridge storage port. According to clause 7,
The discharge unit further includes a discharge pipe extending downward from each cartridge storage port and discharging the formulation,
A formulation dispenser wherein the formulation discharge detection unit is located adjacent to the discharge pipe. According to clause 9,
When the formulation cartridge assembly is mounted on the cartridge storage port, the discharge pipe protrudes outward from the cartridge storage port,
The formulation dispenser wherein the formulation discharge detection unit is located adjacent to a portion of the discharge pipe protruding outward from the cartridge storage port. According to claim 1,
The cartridge identification unit is a dosage form dispenser including any one of a memory chip, a passive element, an identification mark, an RFID chip for radio frequency identification, and an NFC chip for short-distance wireless communication. According to claim 1,
The control unit
Obtaining cartridge information about the formulation cartridge assembly using the cartridge identification unit,
The dosage form dispenser wherein the cartridge information includes at least one of cartridge identification information for the dosage form cartridge assembly or dosage form information for the dosage form stored in the dosage form cartridge assembly. According to claim 12,
The dosage form dispenser is connected to the control unit and further includes an information output unit that outputs the cartridge information input from the control unit. According to claim 13,
A formulation dispenser wherein the information output unit includes at least one of a display module and an audio output module. According to claim 14,
When the formulation cartridge assembly is stored in the cartridge storage port, the control unit outputs the number of the cartridge storage port in which the formulation cartridge assembly is accommodated and the formulation information of the formulation cartridge assembly stored in the formulation dispenser to the display module. According to claim 14,
A formulation dispenser wherein the control unit outputs an image of the cartridge storage hole shape identical to the arrangement of the cartridge storage hole to the display module. According to claim 1,
The dosage form dispenser is connected to the control unit and further includes an installation status display unit that displays whether or not the dosage form cartridge assembly is installed in the cartridge storage port. According to claim 1,
A formulation dispenser wherein the control unit calculates current formulation remaining amount information by counting the formulation discharged from the formulation cartridge assembly using a signal applied from the formulation discharge detection unit. According to claim 1,
It further includes a seal driving unit connected to the control unit and positioned below the storage unit to operate a seal that blocks the discharge passage of the discharge unit connected to the outside,
A formulation dispenser wherein the control unit operates the sealing unit to block the discharge passage when discharge of the formulation from the formulation cartridge assembly is completed.