EP0648151A1 - Method and device for grading capsules. - Google Patents

Method and device for grading capsules.

Info

Publication number
EP0648151A1
EP0648151A1 EP93912997A EP93912997A EP0648151A1 EP 0648151 A1 EP0648151 A1 EP 0648151A1 EP 93912997 A EP93912997 A EP 93912997A EP 93912997 A EP93912997 A EP 93912997A EP 0648151 A1 EP0648151 A1 EP 0648151A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
capsules
control
capsule
sorting device
control position
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Granted
Application number
EP93912997A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP0648151B1 (en
Inventor
Klaus Julius
Christoph Bagusche
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Catalent Germany Eberbach GmbH
Original Assignee
Catalent Germany Eberbach GmbH
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Catalent Germany Eberbach GmbH filed Critical Catalent Germany Eberbach GmbH
Publication of EP0648151A1 publication Critical patent/EP0648151A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP0648151B1 publication Critical patent/EP0648151B1/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Lifetime legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B07—SEPARATING SOLIDS FROM SOLIDS; SORTING
    • B07C—POSTAL SORTING; SORTING INDIVIDUAL ARTICLES, OR BULK MATERIAL FIT TO BE SORTED PIECE-MEAL, e.g. BY PICKING
    • B07C5/00—Sorting according to a characteristic or feature of the articles or material being sorted, e.g. by control effected by devices which detect or measure such characteristic or feature; Sorting by manually actuated devices, e.g. switches
    • B07C5/34—Sorting according to other particular properties
    • B07C5/342—Sorting according to other particular properties according to optical properties, e.g. colour
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B07—SEPARATING SOLIDS FROM SOLIDS; SORTING
    • B07C—POSTAL SORTING; SORTING INDIVIDUAL ARTICLES, OR BULK MATERIAL FIT TO BE SORTED PIECE-MEAL, e.g. BY PICKING
    • B07C5/00—Sorting according to a characteristic or feature of the articles or material being sorted, e.g. by control effected by devices which detect or measure such characteristic or feature; Sorting by manually actuated devices, e.g. switches
    • B07C5/36—Sorting apparatus characterised by the means used for distribution
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B07—SEPARATING SOLIDS FROM SOLIDS; SORTING
    • B07C—POSTAL SORTING; SORTING INDIVIDUAL ARTICLES, OR BULK MATERIAL FIT TO BE SORTED PIECE-MEAL, e.g. BY PICKING
    • B07C5/00—Sorting according to a characteristic or feature of the articles or material being sorted, e.g. by control effected by devices which detect or measure such characteristic or feature; Sorting by manually actuated devices, e.g. switches
    • B07C5/34—Sorting according to other particular properties
    • B07C5/342—Sorting according to other particular properties according to optical properties, e.g. colour
    • B07C5/3422—Sorting according to other particular properties according to optical properties, e.g. colour using video scanning devices, e.g. TV-cameras
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10S—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10S209/00—Classifying, separating, and assorting solids
    • Y10S209/919—Rotary feed conveyor

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a method and an apparatus for sorting capsules for defect-free and defective capsules, e.g. B. capsules for orally used medicament.
  • Such capsules mainly serve as a casing or container for a powdered or granulated medicament and are taken together with it.
  • These capsules are made of a physiologically safe material, e.g. B. hard or soft gelatin, starch or another material that does not contain the active ingredient of the drug itself.
  • B. hard or soft gelatin e.g. hard or soft gelatin, starch or another material that does not contain the active ingredient of the drug itself.
  • gelatin capsules are mass-produced in high-performance production processes from gelatin or gelatin solution. A distinction is made between hard gelatin capsules and soft gelatin capsules.
  • Hard gelatin capsules consist of a hollow upper part (cap) and a hollow lower part (body), which are produced simultaneously on one machine.
  • the capsule parts are temporarily assembled without a filling material to form a finished capsule, as a result of which a small, empty oblong container is obtained.
  • Hard gelatin capsules are produced in various colors and color combinations, transparent and opaque.
  • the empty hard capsule has a weight of approx. 30 to 130 mg depending on the size.
  • the dimensional accuracy of the hard gelatin capsules is of particular importance. They are passed on to the pharmaceutical industry as empty capsules and are filled here with the medicament. The empty capsules are separated into upper and lower parts, the lower part holding the contents and the empty upper part then being put back on. Both capsule halves are firmly and permanently joined together by pressure, so that the contents can no longer escape.
  • the hard gelatin capsules produced on conventional production machines can have defects, such as holes, deformations or bubbles, which can cause considerable problems during filling.
  • the resulting stoppages of the filling machines should be avoided. Therefore defective capsules have to be sorted out by the manufacturer.
  • This sorting process is currently accomplished by manually reading the capsules.
  • the capsules to be sorted fall from a container mounted on a vibrator onto a transparent conveyor belt.
  • the capsules on this conveyor or sorting belt are illuminated from below or from above.
  • One or more persons carry out a visual inspection of the capsules and remove the defective capsules from the passing conveyor belt by hand.
  • Each control person sees only about 30 to 40% of the surface of a capsule on a sorting belt.
  • a complete control of the quality of the capsule is therefore not possible.
  • the result of this quality control is significantly influenced by the attention of the respective control person and by their subjective assessment.
  • the sorting of the capsules should be carried out without control persons and should therefore be automated.
  • the invention describes a method and a device for sorting out defective capsules, wherein the capsules can be viewed all around in a control station in individual control positions by means of cameras.
  • the images recorded by the cameras are evaluated by means of computer programs to determine production errors.
  • the defective capsules are finally sorted out according to the result of the evaluation.
  • a method according to the invention for sorting capsules is described in claim 1. Claims 2 to 8 characterize further developments of this method. A device according to the invention for sorting capsules is described in claim 9. Further developments of this sorting device are described in claims 10 to 25.
  • the automated, electronic sorting method according to the invention and the associated device enable complete control of the capsules on the basis of the all-round observation. Since human inadequacies are eliminated, the result of the sorting process is considerably improved. Capsule producers can thus meet the quality requirements of the pharmaceutical industry as buyers of capsules.
  • the sorting method and the sorting device according to the invention can be used, for example, for sorting out defective, empty, pre-closed or filled, closed hard gelatin capsules. Furthermore, can the invention can also be used for sorting out soft gelatin capsules, capsules made of starch or other materials as well as tablets, coated tablets and lozenges.
  • FIG. 1 is a schematic view of a sorting device with a control station from above;
  • Fig. 2 is a side view, partly in section, of a control position of the sorting device
  • Fig. 3 is a sectional side view of the control position of Fig. 2;
  • Fig. 4 is a sectional view taken along line A-A of Fig. 3;
  • Fig. 5 is a top view of another control position of the sorter
  • FIG. 6 is a side view in section along line B-B of FIG. 5.
  • the device for sorting gelatin capsules according to defect-free capsules 2 and defective capsules 3 consists of at least one control station 5, which has various control positions 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60 for recording and evaluating the properties of the capsules 2 , 3 has.
  • the capsules 2, 3 are held by capsule holders 70.
  • the sorting device has feed devices 90, through which the capsules 2, 3 get from a storage container 80 into the capsule holders 70, and ejection devices, 51, 61, through which the error-free capsules 2 are separated from the defective capsules 3 from the Control station 5 are ejected.
  • One capsule 2, 3 is held in a capsule holder 70 and is conveyed through six control positions 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60 in the control station 5.
  • the capsules 2, 3 are provided in the capsule holders 70.
  • the capsules are removed from the storage container 80 and arranged in the feed device 90 on a guide track 7 in rows of capsules lying one behind the other in the traffic jam.
  • the feed device 90 consists of a downward-pointing tube 91 which is fastened at its upper end to a base plate 81 of the storage container 80.
  • the base plate 81 rotates relative to the fixed housing 83 of the storage container 80, as a result of which the capsules 2, 3 reach the tube 91 from the storage container via holes 82 in the base plate 81.
  • the feed device 90 has two locking bolts 92, 93 connected in series, which are mechanically controlled via guides in such a way that they are lifted one after the other.
  • the first locking pin 92 serves to form the capsules 2, 3 in the tube 91, while the second locking pin 93 separates the capsules 2, 3 from the jam into the capsule holder 70.
  • the locking pin thus making it possible that 'each only one capsule in the capsule holder can be found be ⁇ . If several capsules were located in a capsule holder at the same time, problems would arise in the further course of the control process. In particular, the capsules could jam at the end of the control station 5 when ejected.
  • the capsule holder 70 is attached to the outer, lower end of the feeder 90. It consists of a U-shaped, trapezoidal open rail 71, which has on its underside a slot 72 with pointed edges running in the conveying direction of the capsules 2, 3, capsules. At its outer end, the capsule holder 70 has a tip, for example in the form of a grub screw, for supporting the capsules.
  • the capsules in the capsule holders 70 are conveyed through the following control positions 20, 30, 40, 50, 60.
  • 5 cameras 21, 31, 32, 33 and light sources 22, 34 are arranged at the second and third control positions 20, 30 in the control station for a complete all-round observation of the capsules.
  • a separate image processing computer program is provided for each camera 21, 31, 32, 33, which electronically evaluates the captured image and uses this to determine the nature of the capsules. Since capsules of different colors are to be checked, a color recognition is contained in the computer program.
  • the light sources 22, 34 in the control positions 20, 30 consist of light-emitting diodes which emit light in a region which is visible to the cameras and which is suitable for illuminating the capsules 2, 3.
  • the cameras in the control stations are essentially arranged on the other side of the capsule, opposite the light source. If a transparent or opaque capsule is checked, the light from the light source shines through it, essentially in the direction of the cameras.
  • any errors that may occur with capsules can be recognized. For example, it can be determined whether the capsule has holes, bubbles, deformations or contaminants at any point.
  • the dome on the upper and lower part of the capsule is also checked for damage.
  • the position of the capsule eg upper part above or below
  • the length and the diameter of the upper part and lower part of the capsule are determined, and the cutting edge of the upper part is checked for irregularities.
  • the points at which the capsule is supported in the capsule holder 70 are dimensioned and arranged in such a way that all areas of the capsule are covered by the Light sources 22, 34 shine through or are illuminated and can be detected by cameras 21, 31, 32, 33.
  • the capsules 2, 3 are viewed by a first camera 21.
  • the camera 21 is arranged under the capsule holder 70, that is, under the feed path 7 of the capsules, so that it sees the capsules from below / behind.
  • a light source 22 is arranged above the capsule holder 70, ie above the feed path 7 and thus opposite the camera 21, which illuminates the capsules 2, 3 from above / in front.
  • a further light source 34 is provided for illuminating the capsules.
  • the cameras 31, 32 are arranged obliquely above, to the side of the capsule holder 70, that is to say above and to the side of the feed path 7 of the capsules 2, 3, one camera 31 seeing the capsules from the right front and the other camera 32 seeing the capsules from the left front.
  • a third camera 33 can optionally be arranged directly above the capsule holder, ie above the feed path 7 of the capsules, which is inclined to the other two cameras 31, 32 and the capsules directly from looks up / front.
  • the light source 34 is arranged under the capsule holder, ie under the feed path 7, and illuminates the capsules from below / behind.
  • the capsules 2, 3 are conveyed through the control positions 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60 in the capsule holders 70, but do not move in relation to the capsule holders 70 themselves. In the control positions 20 and 30 they are moved through the stationary cameras 21, 31, 32, 33 are considered. Thus, the capsule 2, 3 neither rotates relative to the cameras nor do the cameras move around the capsule.
  • the fourth control position 40 is a waiting position, during which the computer program evaluates the images taken in order to determine production errors in the capsules.
  • the result of the evaluation is converted in the fifth or sixth control position into a separation of the defect-free capsules 2 from the defect capsules 3.
  • a compressed air valve 51 is provided in the fifth control position, which is controlled and activated by the computer program if the corresponding capsule has no errors.
  • the defect-free capsule 2 is thus blown out of the capsule holder 70 by the compressed air valve 51 and taken up by a collecting container.
  • the compressed air valve is not activated in the fifth control position 50. Rather, the capsule passes through this control position and finally reaches the sixth control position 60.
  • a further compressed air valve 61 is provided, which is controlled and activated by the computer program if the capsule has a fault. Defective capsules 3 are therefore blown out of the capsule holder 70 at the sixth control position 60 by the compressed air valve 61 and taken up by a collecting container.
  • the stepper motor runs, which rotates the base plate 81 of the storage container 80 relative to its housing 83, where be moved through the six control positions by the feed devices 90 with the capsule holders 70 thereon, synchronously with the cameras at the control positions 20 and 30.
  • Each camera must therefore take a picture of a capsule exactly when it is in the corresponding control position. While the capsule holder moves with the capsule into the next control position, the camera should not take a picture.
  • the first capsule reaches the third control position 30, where it is viewed by the cameras 31, 32, 33, while the second capsule is in the second con Roll position 20 arrives and is viewed here by the camera 21.
  • a third capsule is already provided in the first control position 10.
  • the first capsule comes into the control position 40, the second capsule into the control position 30, the third capsule into the control position 20, while a further capsule is provided in the first control position 10.
  • the computer program While the first capsule is in the waiting position in the control position 40, the computer program evaluates the images of the first capsule recorded by the cameras in the preceding steps, although the subsequent capsules already in the corresponding control positions 20 and 30 of are viewed by the cameras.
  • the computer program thus enables parallel observation and evaluation of successive capsules.
  • FIG. 1 schematically shows six feed devices 90 with the associated control positions 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60 only in one quadrant of the circular base plate 81 of the storage container 80. Analogously, this arrangement can be repeated in the other three quadrants of the circular base plate, so that a total of four troll stations 5 with six control positions each are arranged around a storage container 80. If the base plate is dimensioned differently, more or fewer control stations 5 with the respectively associated control positions can be arranged around the storage container 80.
  • approximately 70,000 capsules per hour can be checked, which corresponds to a typical performance of a gelatin capsule production machine. Accordingly, approximately 17,000 to 18,000 control steps are carried out per hour in each of the four control stations. The number of capsules checked can be increased accordingly by multiplying the control stations.
  • the described method and the device for sorting empty, pre-sealed hard gelatin capsules can, for example, be connected directly to the capsule production machine.
  • an arrangement in other production steps is also conceivable, e.g. B. where strongly opaque or filled hard gelatin capsules or soft gelatin capsules, which are filled and closed immediately during production, are to be checked and sorted out.
  • the capsule is no longer transparent and can therefore no longer be illuminated by the light sources and the cameras.
  • the cameras and the light sources are then arranged in the control positions such that the capsule body can only be illuminated and viewed from the outside, but that a complete all-round view of the capsule is nevertheless possible.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Multimedia (AREA)
  • Medical Preparation Storing Or Oral Administration Devices (AREA)
  • Investigating Materials By The Use Of Optical Means Adapted For Particular Applications (AREA)
  • Sorting Of Articles (AREA)
  • Manufacturing Of Micro-Capsules (AREA)
  • Medicinal Preparation (AREA)
  • General Preparation And Processing Of Foods (AREA)

Abstract

PCT No. PCT/EP93/01534 Sec. 371 Date Jun. 12, 1995 Sec. 102(e) Date Jun. 12, 1995 PCT Filed Jun. 16, 1993 PCT Pub. No. WO94/00249 PCT Pub. Date Jan. 6, 1994Disclosed is an apparatus for sorting capsules of hard or soft gelatin, starch or another material, for faultless and faulty capsules. In the apparatus, capsules are first fed from a supply container holders in a control station, then conveyed in the capsule holders through individual control positions in the control station where they are observed using cameras. The images acquired by the cameras are evaluated to determine production faults in the capsules. The faulty capsules are finally ejected from the control station separately from faultless capsules.

Description

Verfahren und Vorrichtung zum Sortieren von Kapseln Method and device for sorting capsules
Die Erfindung betrifft ein Verfahren und eine Vorrichtung zum Sortieren von Kapseln nach fehlerfreien und fehlerhaften Kapseln, z. B. von Kapseln für oral anzuwendende Arznei¬ mittel.The invention relates to a method and an apparatus for sorting capsules for defect-free and defective capsules, e.g. B. capsules for orally used medicament.
Solche Kapseln dienen vorwiegend als Hülle oder Behälter für ein pulverförmiges oder granuliertes Medikament und werden zusammen mit diesem eingenommen. Diese Kapseln bestehen aus einem physiologisch unbedenklichen Material, z. B. aus Hart¬ oder Weichgelatine, aus Stärke oder aus einem anderen Mate¬ rial, das den Wirkstoff des Arzneimittels selbst nicht ent¬ hält. Im folgenden sind beispielsweise meist nur Gelatine¬ kapseln erwähnt. Gelatinekapseln werden als Massenprodukt in Hochleistungs-Produktionsprozessen aus Gelatine oder Gelati¬ nelösung hergestellt. Man unterscheidet zwischen Hartgelati¬ nekapseln und Weichgelatinekapseln.Such capsules mainly serve as a casing or container for a powdered or granulated medicament and are taken together with it. These capsules are made of a physiologically safe material, e.g. B. hard or soft gelatin, starch or another material that does not contain the active ingredient of the drug itself. In the following, for example, mostly only gelatin capsules are mentioned. Gelatin capsules are mass-produced in high-performance production processes from gelatin or gelatin solution. A distinction is made between hard gelatin capsules and soft gelatin capsules.
Hartgelatinekapseln bestehen aus einem hohlen Oberteil (cap) und einem hohlen Unterteil (body), die gleichzeitig auf ei¬ ner Maschine produziert werden. Die Kapselteile werden ohne Füllgut vorläufig zu einer fertigen Kapsel zusammengefügt, wodurch man einen kleinen leeren Behälter in Oblong-Form er¬ hält. Um die Qualität des Endproduktes zu gewährleisten, werden bei der Produktion der Hartgelatinekapseln höchste Anforderungen an die Maßhaltigkeit und Sauberkeit der ent¬ sprechenden Maschinenkomponenten bzw. der damit hergestell¬ ten Kapselteile gestellt. Hartgelatinekapseln werden in verschiedenen Farben und Farb¬ kombinationen, transparent und opak, hergestellt. Die leere Hartkapsel hat je nach Größe ein Gewicht von ca. 30 bis 130 mg.Hard gelatin capsules consist of a hollow upper part (cap) and a hollow lower part (body), which are produced simultaneously on one machine. The capsule parts are temporarily assembled without a filling material to form a finished capsule, as a result of which a small, empty oblong container is obtained. In order to ensure the quality of the end product, the highest demands are placed on the dimensional accuracy and cleanliness of the corresponding machine components or the capsule parts produced therewith during the production of the hard gelatin capsules. Hard gelatin capsules are produced in various colors and color combinations, transparent and opaque. The empty hard capsule has a weight of approx. 30 to 130 mg depending on the size.
Im Hinblick auf die Weiterverarbeitung kommt der Maßhaltig¬ keit der Hartgelatinekapseln besondere Bedeutung zu. Sie werden als Leerkapseln an die pharmazeutische Industrie wei¬ tergegeben und hier mit dem Arzneimittel befüllt. Dabei wer¬ den die Leerkapseln in Ober- und Unterteile getrennt, wobei das Unterteil das Füllgut aufnimmt und das leere Oberteil anschließend wieder aufgesetzt wird. Durch Druck werden bei¬ de Kapselhälften fest und auf Dauer zusammengefügt, so daß der Inhalt nicht mehr austreten kann.With regard to further processing, the dimensional accuracy of the hard gelatin capsules is of particular importance. They are passed on to the pharmaceutical industry as empty capsules and are filled here with the medicament. The empty capsules are separated into upper and lower parts, the lower part holding the contents and the empty upper part then being put back on. Both capsule halves are firmly and permanently joined together by pressure, so that the contents can no longer escape.
Die auf herkömmlichen Produktionsmaschinen hergestellten Hartgelatinekapseln können Fehler, wie beispielsweise Lö¬ cher, Deformierungen oder Blasen aufweisen, die bei der Befüllung erhebliche Probleme bereiten können. Daraus mögli¬ cherweise resultierende Stillstände der Befüllungsmasch nen sollen vermieden werden. Daher müssen fehlerhafte Kapseln bereits beim Hersteller aussortiert werden.The hard gelatin capsules produced on conventional production machines can have defects, such as holes, deformations or bubbles, which can cause considerable problems during filling. The resulting stoppages of the filling machines should be avoided. Therefore defective capsules have to be sorted out by the manufacturer.
Gegenwärtig wird dieser Sortiervorgang durch manuelles Ver¬ lesen der Kapseln bewerkstelligt. Dabei fallen die zu sor¬ tierenden Kapseln aus einem auf einem Rüttler montierten Be¬ hälter auf ein transparentes Förderband. Die Kapseln auf diesem Förder- oder Verleseband werden von unten oder von oben beleuchtet. Eine oder mehrere Personen nehmen eine Sichtkontrolle der Kapseln vor und entnehmen die fehlerhaf¬ ten Kapseln von Hand von dem vorbeilaufenden Förderband. Dabei sieht jede Kontrollperson an einem Verleseband nur et¬ wa 30 bis 40% der Oberfläche einer Kapsel. Eine vollständige Kontrolle der Beschaffenheit der Kapsel ist somit also nicht möglich. Darüberhinaus wird das Ergebnis dieser Qualitäts¬ kontrolle wesentlich durch die Aufmerksamkeit der jeweiligen Kontrollperson und durch deren subjektive Beurteilung beein¬ flußt. Somit ist es eine Aufgabe der Erfindung, ein Verfahren und eine zugehörige Vorrichtung zum Sortieren von Kapseln nach fehlerfreien und fehlerhaften Kapseln zu schaffen, bei dem die mit dem manuellen Verlesen der Kapseln verbundenen Pro¬ bleme beseitigt sind. Insbesondere soll das Sortieren der Kapseln ohne Kontrollpersonen durchgeführt und daher automa¬ tisiert werden.This sorting process is currently accomplished by manually reading the capsules. The capsules to be sorted fall from a container mounted on a vibrator onto a transparent conveyor belt. The capsules on this conveyor or sorting belt are illuminated from below or from above. One or more persons carry out a visual inspection of the capsules and remove the defective capsules from the passing conveyor belt by hand. Each control person sees only about 30 to 40% of the surface of a capsule on a sorting belt. A complete control of the quality of the capsule is therefore not possible. In addition, the result of this quality control is significantly influenced by the attention of the respective control person and by their subjective assessment. It is therefore an object of the invention to provide a method and an associated device for sorting capsules for faultless and defective capsules, in which the problems associated with manual reading of the capsules are eliminated. In particular, the sorting of the capsules should be carried out without control persons and should therefore be automated.
Die Erfindung beschreibt ein Verfahren und eine Vorrichtung zum Aussortieren von fehlerhaften Kapseln, wobei die Kapseln in einer Kontrollstation in einzelnen Kontrollpositionen mittels Kameras rundum betrachtet werden können. Die von den Kameras aufgenommenen Bilder werden mittels Computerpro¬ grammen zur Ermittlung von Produktionsfehlern ausgewertet. Entsprechend dem Ergebnis der Auswertung werden schließlich die fehlerhaften Kapseln aussortiert.The invention describes a method and a device for sorting out defective capsules, wherein the capsules can be viewed all around in a control station in individual control positions by means of cameras. The images recorded by the cameras are evaluated by means of computer programs to determine production errors. The defective capsules are finally sorted out according to the result of the evaluation.
Ein erfindungsgemäßes Verfahren zum Sortieren von Kapseln ist im Patentanspruch 1 beschrieben. Die Patentansprüche 2 bis 8 kennzeichnen Weiterbildungen dieses Verfahrens. Eine erfindungsgemäße Einrichtung zum Sortieren von Kapseln ist in Patentanspruch 9 beschrieben. Weiterbildungen dieser Sor¬ tiereinrichtung sind in den Patentansprüchen 10 bis 25 beschrieben.A method according to the invention for sorting capsules is described in claim 1. Claims 2 to 8 characterize further developments of this method. A device according to the invention for sorting capsules is described in claim 9. Further developments of this sorting device are described in claims 10 to 25.
Das erfindungsgemäße automatisierte, elektronische Sortier¬ verfahren sowie die zugehörige Vorrichtung ermöglichen auf¬ grund der Rundumbetrachtung eine vollständige Kontrolle der Kapseln. Da menschliche Unzulänglichkeiten ausgeschaltet sind, wird das Ergebnis des Sortiervorgangs erheblich ver¬ bessert. Die Produzenten von Kapseln können somit den Quali¬ tätsanforderungen der pharmazeutischen Industrie als Abneh¬ mer von Kapseln gerecht werden.The automated, electronic sorting method according to the invention and the associated device enable complete control of the capsules on the basis of the all-round observation. Since human inadequacies are eliminated, the result of the sorting process is considerably improved. Capsule producers can thus meet the quality requirements of the pharmaceutical industry as buyers of capsules.
Das Sortierverfahren und die Sortiereinrichtung gemäß der Erfindung können beispielsweise zum Aussortieren von fehler¬ haften, leeren vorverschlossenen oder gefüllten verschlosse¬ nen Hartgelatinekapseln verwendet werden. Darüberhinaus kann die Erfindung auch zum Aussortieren von Weichgelatine¬ kapseln, Kapseln aus Stärke oder anderen Materialien sowie von Tabletten, Dragees und Pastillen verwendet werden.The sorting method and the sorting device according to the invention can be used, for example, for sorting out defective, empty, pre-closed or filled, closed hard gelatin capsules. Furthermore, can the invention can also be used for sorting out soft gelatin capsules, capsules made of starch or other materials as well as tablets, coated tablets and lozenges.
Ein Ausführungsbeispiel der Erfindung, das zum Aussortieren von transparenten oder opaken leeren, vorverschlossenen Hartgelatinekapseln dient, wird im folgenden anhand der Zeichnungen detailliert beschrieben.An embodiment of the invention, which serves to sort out transparent or opaque empty, pre-sealed hard gelatin capsules, is described in detail below with reference to the drawings.
Fig. 1 ist eine schematische Ansicht einer Sortiereinrich¬ tung mit einer Kontrollstation von oben;1 is a schematic view of a sorting device with a control station from above;
Fig. 2 ist eine Seitenansicht, zum Teil im Schnitt, einer Kontrollposition der Sortiereinrichtung;Fig. 2 is a side view, partly in section, of a control position of the sorting device;
Fig. 3 ist eine Seitenansicht der Kontrollposition aus Fig. 2 im Schnitt;Fig. 3 is a sectional side view of the control position of Fig. 2;
Fig. 4 ist eine Ansicht im Schnitt entlang der Linie A-A aus Fig. 3;Fig. 4 is a sectional view taken along line A-A of Fig. 3;
Fig. 5 ist eine Ansicht einer anderen Kontrollposition der Sortiereinrichtung von oben;Fig. 5 is a top view of another control position of the sorter;
Fig. 6 ist eine Seitenansicht im Schnitt entlang der Linie B-B aus Fig. 5.FIG. 6 is a side view in section along line B-B of FIG. 5.
Die Einrichtung zum Sortieren von Gelatinekapseln nach feh¬ lerfreien Kapseln 2 und fehlerhaften Kapseln 3 besteht aus mindestens einer Kontrollstation 5, die verschiedene Kon¬ trollpositionen 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60 zur Aufnahme und Aus¬ wertung der Eigenschaften der Kapseln 2, 3 aufweist. In den Kontrollpositionen sind die Kapseln 2, 3 durch Kapselhalte¬ rungen 70 gehaltert. Weiterhin weist die Sortiereinrichtung Zuführeinrichtungen 90 auf, durch die die Kapseln 2, 3 von einem Vorratsbehälter 80 in die Kapselhalterungen 70 gelan¬ gen, sowie Auswerfeinrichtungen, 51, 61, durch die die feh¬ lerfreien Kapseln 2 getrennt von den fehlerhaften Kapseln 3 aus der Kontrollstation 5 ausgeworfen werden. Jeweils eine Kapsel 2, 3 ist in einer Kapselhai erung 70 ge¬ haltert und wird in dieser durch sechs Kontrollpositionen 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60 in der Kontrollstation 5 hindurchge¬ fördert. An der ersten Kontrollposition 10 in der Kontroll¬ station 5 werden die Kapseln 2, 3 in den Kapselhalterungen 70 bereitgestellt. Dazu werden die Kapseln aus dem Vorrats¬ behälter 80 entnommen und in der Zuführeinrichtung 90 auf einer Führungsbahn 7 in Reihen von hintereinander im Stau liegenden Kapseln angeordnet. Die Zuführeinrichtung 90 be¬ steht aus einem abwärts gerichteten Rohr 91, das mit seinem oberen Ende an einer Bodenplatte 81 des Vorratsbehälters 80 befestigt ist. Angetrieben von einem Schrittmotor dreht sich die Bodenplatte 81 relativ zu dem feststehenden Gehäuse 83 des Vorratsbehälters 80, wodurch die Kapseln 2, 3 aus dem Vorratsbehälter über Löcher 82 in der Bodenplatte 81 in das Rohr 91 gelangen.The device for sorting gelatin capsules according to defect-free capsules 2 and defective capsules 3 consists of at least one control station 5, which has various control positions 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60 for recording and evaluating the properties of the capsules 2 , 3 has. In the control positions, the capsules 2, 3 are held by capsule holders 70. Furthermore, the sorting device has feed devices 90, through which the capsules 2, 3 get from a storage container 80 into the capsule holders 70, and ejection devices, 51, 61, through which the error-free capsules 2 are separated from the defective capsules 3 from the Control station 5 are ejected. One capsule 2, 3 is held in a capsule holder 70 and is conveyed through six control positions 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60 in the control station 5. At the first control position 10 in the control station 5, the capsules 2, 3 are provided in the capsule holders 70. For this purpose, the capsules are removed from the storage container 80 and arranged in the feed device 90 on a guide track 7 in rows of capsules lying one behind the other in the traffic jam. The feed device 90 consists of a downward-pointing tube 91 which is fastened at its upper end to a base plate 81 of the storage container 80. Driven by a stepper motor, the base plate 81 rotates relative to the fixed housing 83 of the storage container 80, as a result of which the capsules 2, 3 reach the tube 91 from the storage container via holes 82 in the base plate 81.
Die Zuführeinrichtung 90 weist zwei hintereinandergeschalte- te Sperrbolzen 92, 93 auf, die über Führungen mechanisch derart gesteuert sind, daß sie nacheinander angehoben wer¬ den. Der erste Sperrbolzen 92 dient dabei zur Staubildung der Kapseln 2, 3 in dem Rohr 91, während der zweite Sperr¬ bolzen 93 die Kapseln 2, 3 aus dem Stau in die Kapselhaite¬ rung 70 vereinzelt. Die Sperrbolzen ermöglichen es somit, daß' sich jeweils nur eine Kapsel in der Kapselhalterung be¬ findet. Wenn mehrere Kapseln gleichzeitig in einer Kapsel¬ halterung liegen würden, ergäben sich Probleme im weiteren Verlauf des Kontollprozesses. Insbesondere könnten sich die Kapseln beim Auswerfen am Ende der Kontrollstation 5 ver¬ klemmen.The feed device 90 has two locking bolts 92, 93 connected in series, which are mechanically controlled via guides in such a way that they are lifted one after the other. The first locking pin 92 serves to form the capsules 2, 3 in the tube 91, while the second locking pin 93 separates the capsules 2, 3 from the jam into the capsule holder 70. The locking pin thus making it possible that 'each only one capsule in the capsule holder can be found be¬. If several capsules were located in a capsule holder at the same time, problems would arise in the further course of the control process. In particular, the capsules could jam at the end of the control station 5 when ejected.
Die Kapselhalterung 70 ist an dem äußeren, unteren Ende der Zuführeinrichtung 90 befestigt. Sie besteht aus einer U-förmigen, in Trapezform nach oben offenen Schiene 71, die an ihrer Unterseite einen in Förderrichtung der Kapseln 2, 3 verlaufenden Schlitz 72 mit spitzen Kanten aufweist, an de- nen die Kapseln anliegen. An ihrem äußeren Ende weist die Kapselhalterung 70 eine Spitze, beispielsweise in Form einer Madenschraube, zum Abstützen der Kapseln auf.The capsule holder 70 is attached to the outer, lower end of the feeder 90. It consists of a U-shaped, trapezoidal open rail 71, which has on its underside a slot 72 with pointed edges running in the conveying direction of the capsules 2, 3, capsules. At its outer end, the capsule holder 70 has a tip, for example in the form of a grub screw, for supporting the capsules.
Nach der Bereitstellung der Kapseln 2, 3 in den Kapselhalte¬ rungen 70 an der ersten Kontrollposition 10 in der Kontroll¬ station 5 werden die Kapseln in den Kapselhalterungen 70 durch die folgenden Kontrollpositionen 20, 30, 40, 50, 60 hindurchgefördert. Um die Kapseln auf Produktionsfehler hin zu kontrollieren, sind an der zweiten und der dritten Kon¬ trollposition 20, 30 in der Kontrollstation 5 Kameras 21, 31, 32, 33 und Lichtquellen 22, 34 zur vollständigen Rundum¬ betrachtung der Kapseln angeordnet. Dabei ist für jede Kame¬ ra 21, 31, 32, 33 ein eigenes Bildverarbeitungs-Computer¬ programm vorgesehen, das das aufgenommene Bild elektronisch auswertet und hieraus die Beschaffenheit der Kapseln ermit¬ telt. Da Kapseln unterschiedlicher Farben kontrolliert wer¬ den sollen, ist in dem Computerprogramm eine Farberkennung enthalten.After the capsules 2, 3 have been provided in the capsule holders 70 at the first control position 10 in the control station 5, the capsules in the capsule holders 70 are conveyed through the following control positions 20, 30, 40, 50, 60. In order to check the capsules for production errors, 5 cameras 21, 31, 32, 33 and light sources 22, 34 are arranged at the second and third control positions 20, 30 in the control station for a complete all-round observation of the capsules. A separate image processing computer program is provided for each camera 21, 31, 32, 33, which electronically evaluates the captured image and uses this to determine the nature of the capsules. Since capsules of different colors are to be checked, a color recognition is contained in the computer program.
Die Lichtquellen 22, 34 in den Kontrollpositionen 20, 30 be¬ stehen aus Leuchtdioden, die ein Licht in einem für die Ka¬ meras sichtbaren Bereich abgeben, das zur Beleuchtung der Kapseln 2, 3 geeignet ist. Die Kameras in den Kontrollsta¬ tionen sind im wesentlichen auf der anderen Seite der Kap¬ seln, der Lichtquelle gegenüberliegend, angeordnet. Wird ei¬ ne transparente oder opake Kapsel kontrolliert, so scheint das Licht aus der Lichtquelle durch sie hindurch, im wesent¬ lichen in Richtung auf die Kameras.The light sources 22, 34 in the control positions 20, 30 consist of light-emitting diodes which emit light in a region which is visible to the cameras and which is suitable for illuminating the capsules 2, 3. The cameras in the control stations are essentially arranged on the other side of the capsule, opposite the light source. If a transparent or opaque capsule is checked, the light from the light source shines through it, essentially in the direction of the cameras.
Durch die spezielle Anordnung der Lichtquellen und der Kame¬ ras in der zweiten und der dritten Kontrollstation 20, 30 ist somit eine vollständige Rundumbetrachtung der Kapseln möglich, und es kann jeder beliebige, bei Kapseln möglicher¬ weise vorkommende Fehler erkannt werden. So kann beispiels¬ weise festgestellt werden, ob die Kapsel an einer beliebigen Stelle Löcher, Blasen, Deformierungen oder Verunreinigungen aufweist. Darüberhinaus wird der Dom am Ober- und Unterteil der Kapsel auf Beschädigungen überprüft. Außerdem wird die Lage der Kapsel (z. B. Oberteil oben oder unten), die Länge und der Durchmesser von Oberteil und Unterteil der Kapsel ermittelt sowie der Schneiderand des Oberteils auf Unregel¬ mäßigkeiten überprüft.Due to the special arrangement of the light sources and the cameras in the second and third control stations 20, 30, a complete all-round view of the capsules is possible, and any errors that may occur with capsules can be recognized. For example, it can be determined whether the capsule has holes, bubbles, deformations or contaminants at any point. The dome on the upper and lower part of the capsule is also checked for damage. In addition, the The position of the capsule (eg upper part above or below), the length and the diameter of the upper part and lower part of the capsule are determined, and the cutting edge of the upper part is checked for irregularities.
Die Punkte, an denen die Kapsel in der Kapselhalterung 70 abgestützt wird, also die Kanten an dem Schlitz 72 der Schiene 71 sowie die Schraubenspitze am Ende der Kapselhal¬ terung 70, sind derart dimensioniert und angeordnet, daß al¬ le Bereiche der Kapsel von den Lichtquellen 22, 34 durch¬ leuchtet oder beleuchtet und von den Kameras 21, 31, 32, 33 erfaßt werden können.The points at which the capsule is supported in the capsule holder 70, that is to say the edges on the slot 72 of the rail 71 and the screw tip at the end of the capsule holder 70, are dimensioned and arranged in such a way that all areas of the capsule are covered by the Light sources 22, 34 shine through or are illuminated and can be detected by cameras 21, 31, 32, 33.
In der zweiten Kontrollposition 20 in der Kontrollstation 5 (Fig. 2 bis 4) werden die Kapseln 2, 3 von einer ersten Ka¬ mera 21 betrachtet. Die Kamera 21 ist unter der Kapselhalte¬ rung 70, also unter der Zuführungsbahn 7 der Kapseln an¬ geordnet, so daß sie die Kapseln von unten/hinten sieht. Über der Kapselhalterung 70, also über der Zuführungsbahn 7 und somit der Kamera 21 gegenüberliegend ist eine Lichtquel¬ le 22 angeordnet, die die Kapseln 2, 3 von oben/vorne be¬ scheint.In the second control position 20 in the control station 5 (FIGS. 2 to 4), the capsules 2, 3 are viewed by a first camera 21. The camera 21 is arranged under the capsule holder 70, that is, under the feed path 7 of the capsules, so that it sees the capsules from below / behind. A light source 22 is arranged above the capsule holder 70, ie above the feed path 7 and thus opposite the camera 21, which illuminates the capsules 2, 3 from above / in front.
Da die Kapseln 2, 3 durch die Kamera 21 in der zweiten Kon¬ trollposition 20 noch nicht vollständig erfaßt werden kön¬ nen, werden sie in der dritten Kontrollposition 30 mittels zwei Kameras 31, 32 aus anderen Richtungen erneut betrachtet (Fig. 5 und 6). Zur Beleuchtung der Kapseln ist eine weitere Lichtquelle 34 vorgesehen. Die Kameras 31, 32 sind schräg oberhalb, seitlich der Kapselhalterung 70, also oberhalb und seitlich der Zuführungsbahn 7 der Kapseln 2, 3 angeordnet, wobei die eine Kamera 31 die Kapseln von rechts vorne und die andere Kamera 32 die Kapseln von links vorne sieht. Dar- überhinaus kann gegebenenfalls eine dritte Kamera 33 direkt oberhalb der Kapselhalterung, also oberhalb der Zuführungs¬ bahn 7 der Kapseln angeordnet sein, die geneigt zu den ande¬ ren beiden Kameras 31, 32 ist und die Kapseln direkt von oben/vorne sieht. Die Lichtquelle 34 ist unter der Kapsel¬ halterung, also unter der Zuführungsbahn 7 angeordnet und bescheint die Kapseln von unten/hinten.Since the capsules 2, 3 cannot yet be completely captured by the camera 21 in the second control position 20, they are viewed again in the third control position 30 by means of two cameras 31, 32 from other directions (FIGS. 5 and 6 ). A further light source 34 is provided for illuminating the capsules. The cameras 31, 32 are arranged obliquely above, to the side of the capsule holder 70, that is to say above and to the side of the feed path 7 of the capsules 2, 3, one camera 31 seeing the capsules from the right front and the other camera 32 seeing the capsules from the left front. Furthermore, a third camera 33 can optionally be arranged directly above the capsule holder, ie above the feed path 7 of the capsules, which is inclined to the other two cameras 31, 32 and the capsules directly from looks up / front. The light source 34 is arranged under the capsule holder, ie under the feed path 7, and illuminates the capsules from below / behind.
Die Kapseln 2, 3 werden in den Kapselhalterungen 70 durch die Kontrollpositionen 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60 hindurchgeför¬ dert, bewegen sich selbst aber nicht gegenüber den Kapsel¬ halterungen 70. In den Kontrollpositionen 20 und 30 werden sie durch die stillstehenden Kameras 21, 31, 32, 33 betrach¬ tet. Dabei dreht sich also weder die Kapsel 2, 3 relativ zu den Kameras noch wandern die Kameras um die Kapsel herum.The capsules 2, 3 are conveyed through the control positions 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60 in the capsule holders 70, but do not move in relation to the capsule holders 70 themselves. In the control positions 20 and 30 they are moved through the stationary cameras 21, 31, 32, 33 are considered. Thus, the capsule 2, 3 neither rotates relative to the cameras nor do the cameras move around the capsule.
Die vierte Kontrollposition 40 ist eine Wartestellung, wäh¬ rend der das Computerprogramm die aufgenommenen Bilder aus¬ wertet, um Produktionsfehler in den Kapseln zu ermitteln.The fourth control position 40 is a waiting position, during which the computer program evaluates the images taken in order to determine production errors in the capsules.
Das Ergebnis der Auswertung wird in der fünften bzw. der sechsten Kontrollposition in ein Trennen der fehlerfreien Kapseln 2 von den fehlerhaften Kapseln 3 umgesetzt. Dazu ist in der fünften Kontrollposition ein Druckluftventil 51 vor¬ gesehen, das von dem Computerprogramm angesteuert und akti¬ viert wird, wenn die entsprechende Kapsel keinen Fehler auf¬ weist. Durch das Druckluftventil 51 wird die fehlerfreie Kapsel 2 also aus der Kapselhalterung 70 ausgeblasen und von einem Sammelbehälter aufgenommen. Hat das Computerprogramm einen Fehler an der Kapsel festgestellt, so wird das Druck¬ luftventil in der fünften Kontrollposition 50 nicht akti¬ viert. Vielmehr durchläuft die Kapsel diese Kontrollposition und gelangt schließlich in die sechste Kontrollposition 60. Hier ist ein weiteres Druckluftventil 61 vorgesehen, das von dem Computerprogramm angesteuert und aktiviert wird, wenn die Kapsel einen Fehler aufweist. Fehlerhafte Kapseln 3 wer¬ den also an der sechsten Kontrollposition 60 durch das Druckluftventil 61 aus der Kapselhalterung 70 ausgeblasen und von einem Sammelbehälter aufgenommen.The result of the evaluation is converted in the fifth or sixth control position into a separation of the defect-free capsules 2 from the defect capsules 3. For this purpose, a compressed air valve 51 is provided in the fifth control position, which is controlled and activated by the computer program if the corresponding capsule has no errors. The defect-free capsule 2 is thus blown out of the capsule holder 70 by the compressed air valve 51 and taken up by a collecting container. If the computer program has found an error on the capsule, the compressed air valve is not activated in the fifth control position 50. Rather, the capsule passes through this control position and finally reaches the sixth control position 60. Here, a further compressed air valve 61 is provided, which is controlled and activated by the computer program if the capsule has a fault. Defective capsules 3 are therefore blown out of the capsule holder 70 at the sixth control position 60 by the compressed air valve 61 and taken up by a collecting container.
Um eine korrekte Funktion der Sortiereinrichtung zu gewähr¬ leisten, läuft der Schrittmotor, der die Bodenplatte 81 des Vorratsbehälters 80 relativ zu dessen Gehäuse 83 dreht, wo- durch die Zuführeinrichtungen 90 mit den daran befindlichen Kapselhalterungen 70 durch die sechs Kontrollpositionen be¬ wegt werden, synchron mit den Kameras an den Kontrollposi¬ tionen 20 und 30. Jede Kamera muß also genau dann eine Auf¬ nahme einer Kapsel machen, wenn sich diese in der entspre¬ chenden Kontrollposition befindet. Während sich die Kapsel¬ halterung mit der Kapsel in die nächste Kontrollposition be¬ wegt, soll die Kamera kein Bild aufnehmen.In order to ensure correct functioning of the sorting device, the stepper motor runs, which rotates the base plate 81 of the storage container 80 relative to its housing 83, where be moved through the six control positions by the feed devices 90 with the capsule holders 70 thereon, synchronously with the cameras at the control positions 20 and 30. Each camera must therefore take a picture of a capsule exactly when it is in the corresponding control position. While the capsule holder moves with the capsule into the next control position, the camera should not take a picture.
Während eine Kapsel in der zweiten Kontrollposition 20 von der Kamera 21 betrachtet wird, wird in der ersten Kontroll- Position 10 bereits die nächste Kapsel bereitgestellt. Durch Weiterdrehung der Kapselhalterungen 70 (in Richtung des Pfeiles in Fig. 1), gelangt die erste Kapsel in die dritte Kontrollposition 30, wo sie von den Kameras 31, 32, 33 be¬ trachtet wird, während die zweite Kapsel in die zweite Kon¬ rollposition 20 gelangt und hier von der Kamera 21 betrach¬ tet wird. In der ersten Kontrollposition 10 wird unterdessen bereits eine dritte Kapsel bereitgestellt. Durch erneutes Weiterdrehen der Kapselhalterungen 70 gelangt die erste Kap¬ sel in die Kontrollposition 40, die zweite Kapsel in die Kontrollposition 30, die dritte Kapsel in die Kontrollposi¬ tion 20, während in der ersten Kontrollposition 10 eine wei¬ tere Kapsel bereitgestellt wird. Während sich die erste Kap¬ sel in der Kontrollposition 40 in Wartestellung befindet, wertet das Computerprogramm die von den Kameras in den vor¬ hergehenden Schritten aufgenommenen Bilder der ersten Kapsel aus, obwohl bereits die nachfolgenden Kapseln in den ent¬ sprechenden Kontrollpositionen 20 und 30 von den Kameras be¬ trachtet werden. Das Computerprogramm ermöglicht also eine parallele Betrachtung und Auswertung aufeinander folgender Kapseln.While a capsule is viewed by the camera 21 in the second control position 20, the next capsule is already provided in the first control position 10. By further turning the capsule holders 70 (in the direction of the arrow in FIG. 1), the first capsule reaches the third control position 30, where it is viewed by the cameras 31, 32, 33, while the second capsule is in the second con Roll position 20 arrives and is viewed here by the camera 21. A third capsule is already provided in the first control position 10. By further turning the capsule holders 70, the first capsule comes into the control position 40, the second capsule into the control position 30, the third capsule into the control position 20, while a further capsule is provided in the first control position 10. While the first capsule is in the waiting position in the control position 40, the computer program evaluates the images of the first capsule recorded by the cameras in the preceding steps, although the subsequent capsules already in the corresponding control positions 20 and 30 of are viewed by the cameras. The computer program thus enables parallel observation and evaluation of successive capsules.
In Fig. 1 sind schematisch nur in einem Quadranten der kreisförmigen Bodenplatte 81 des Vorratsbehälters 80 sechs Zuführeinrichtungen 90 mit den zugehörigen Kontrollpositio¬ nen 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60 dargestellt. Analog kann sich diese Anordnung in den anderen drei Quadranten der kreisför¬ migen Bodenplatte wiederholen, so daß insgesamt vier Kon- trollstationen 5 mit jeweils sechs Kontrollpositionen um ei¬ nen Vorratsbehälter 80 herum angeordnet sind. Bei anderer Dimensionierung der Bodenplatte können auch mehr oder weni¬ ger Kontrollstationen 5 mit den jeweils zugehörigen Kon¬ trollpositionen um den Vorratsbehälter 80 herum angeordnet werden.1 schematically shows six feed devices 90 with the associated control positions 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60 only in one quadrant of the circular base plate 81 of the storage container 80. Analogously, this arrangement can be repeated in the other three quadrants of the circular base plate, so that a total of four troll stations 5 with six control positions each are arranged around a storage container 80. If the base plate is dimensioned differently, more or fewer control stations 5 with the respectively associated control positions can be arranged around the storage container 80.
Bei der in diesem Ausführungsbeispiel dargestellten Anord¬ nung von vier Kontrollstationen können etwa 70.000 Kapseln pro Stunde kontrolliert werden, was einer typischen Leistung einer Gelatinekapsel-Produktionsmaschine entspricht. In je¬ der der vier Kontrollstationen werden pro Stunde demnach et¬ wa 17.000 bis 18.000 Kontrollschritte durchgeführt. Durch Vervielfachung der Kontrollstationen läßt sich die Anzahl der kontrollierten Kapseln entsprechend erhöhen.In the arrangement of four control stations shown in this exemplary embodiment, approximately 70,000 capsules per hour can be checked, which corresponds to a typical performance of a gelatin capsule production machine. Accordingly, approximately 17,000 to 18,000 control steps are carried out per hour in each of the four control stations. The number of capsules checked can be increased accordingly by multiplying the control stations.
Das beschriebene Verfahren und die Vorrichtung zum Sortieren von leeren, vorverschlossenen Hartgelatinekapseln können beispielsweise direkt an die Produktionsmaschine der Kapseln angeschlossen werden. Jedoch ist auch eine Anordnung in an¬ deren Produktionsschritten denkbar, z. B. dort, wo stark opake oder gefüllte Hartgelatinekapseln oder Weichgelatine¬ kapseln, die unmittelbar bei der Produktion gefüllt und ver¬ schlossen werden, kontrolliert und aussortiert werden sol¬ len. In diesen zuletzt genannten Fällen ist die Kapsel nicht mehr transparent und kann daher von den Lichtquellen und den Kameras nicht mehr durchleuchtet werden. Die Kameras und die Lichtquellen werden dann derart in den Kontrollpositionen angeordnet, daß der Kapselkörper nur von außen beleuchtet und betrachtet werden kann, daß dennoch aber eine vollstän¬ dige Rundumbetrachtung der Kapsel möglich ist. Das gleiche gilt für die Kontrolle von Tabletten, Dragees usw.. The described method and the device for sorting empty, pre-sealed hard gelatin capsules can, for example, be connected directly to the capsule production machine. However, an arrangement in other production steps is also conceivable, e.g. B. where strongly opaque or filled hard gelatin capsules or soft gelatin capsules, which are filled and closed immediately during production, are to be checked and sorted out. In the latter cases, the capsule is no longer transparent and can therefore no longer be illuminated by the light sources and the cameras. The cameras and the light sources are then arranged in the control positions such that the capsule body can only be illuminated and viewed from the outside, but that a complete all-round view of the capsule is nevertheless possible. The same applies to the control of tablets, coated tablets, etc.

Claims

P A T E N T A N S P R Ü C H E P A T E N T A N S P R Ü C H E
1. Verfahren zum Sortieren von Kapseln, insbesondere Gela¬ tinekapseln, nach fehlerfreien (2) und fehlerhaften (3) Kapseln, gekennzeichnet durch folgende Schritte:1. Method for sorting capsules, in particular gelatin capsules, according to error-free (2) and defective (3) capsules, characterized by the following steps:
Zuführen der Kapseln (2, 3) zu einer Kontrollstation (5);Feeding the capsules (2, 3) to a control station (5);
Rundumbetrachten der Kapseln (2, 3) in einzelnen Kontrollpositionen (10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60) mittels Kameras (21, 31, 32, 33) in der Kontrollstation (5); Auswerten der von den Kameras (21, 31, 32, 33) auf¬ genommenen Bilder mittels Computerprogrammen zur Er¬ mittlung von Produktionsfehlern in den Kapseln (2, 3);All-round viewing of the capsules (2, 3) in individual control positions (10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60) by means of cameras (21, 31, 32, 33) in the control station (5); Evaluating the images recorded by the cameras (21, 31, 32, 33) by means of computer programs to determine production errors in the capsules (2, 3);
Umsetzen des Ergebnisses der Auswertung in ein Aus¬ sortieren der fehlerhaften Kapseln (3).Converting the result of the evaluation into sorting out the defective capsules (3).
2. Verfahren nach Anspruch 1, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Kapseln (2, 3) in Kapselhalterungen (70) an ei¬ ner ersten Kontrollposition (10) in der Kontrollsta¬ tion (5) bereitgestellt werden; die Kapseln (2, 3) in den Kapselhalterungen (70) durch weitere Kontrollpositionen (20, 30, 40) in der Kontrollstation (5) hindurchgefördert werden; die Kapseln (2, 3) aus den Kapselhalterungen (70) an einer letzten Kontrollposition (50, 60) in der Kon¬ trollstation (5) ausgeworfen werden. Verfahren nach Anspruch 2, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß jeweils eine Kapsel (2, 3) in einer Kapselhalterung (70) gehaltert und in dieser durch die verschiedenen Kon¬ trollpositionen (10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60) in der Kon¬ trollstation (5) hindurchgefördert wird.2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that the capsules (2, 3) are provided in capsule holders (70) at a first control position (10) in the control station (5); the capsules (2, 3) in the capsule holders (70) are conveyed through further control positions (20, 30, 40) in the control station (5); the capsules (2, 3) are ejected from the capsule holders (70) at a last control position (50, 60) in the control station (5). Method according to claim 2, characterized in that one capsule (2, 3) is held in a capsule holder (70) and in the latter by the various control positions (10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60) in the control troll station (5) is conveyed through.
Verfahren nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, da¬ durch gekennzeichnet, daß der Schritt des Zuführens der Kapseln (2, 3) folgende Teilschritte umfasst:Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the step of feeding the capsules (2, 3) comprises the following substeps:
Entnehmen von Kapseln aus einem Vorratsbehälter (80) in Reihen von hintereinander im Stau liegenden Kap¬ seln;Removing capsules from a storage container (80) in rows of capsules lying one behind the other in a traffic jam;
Vereinzeln der Kapseln aus dem Stau in die Kapsel¬ halterung (70).Separating the capsules from the jam into the capsule holder (70).
Verfahren nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, da¬ durch gekennzeichnet, daß der Schritt des Rundumbetrach¬ tens der Kapseln (2, 3) folgende Teilschritte aufweist: Betrachten der Kapseln in einer zweiten Kontrollpo¬ sition (20) mittels mindestens einer ersten Kamera (21);Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the step of looking around the capsules (2, 3) has the following sub-steps: Viewing the capsules in a second control position (20) by means of at least one first camera (21) ;
Betrachten der Kapseln in einer dritten Kontrollpo¬ sition (30) mittels mindestens einer zweiten Kamera (31, 32, 33);Viewing the capsules in a third control position (30) by means of at least one second camera (31, 32, 33);
Positionieren der Kapseln in einer vierten Kontroll- Position (40) in einer Wartestellung, während der das Computerprogramm die aufgenommenen Bilder aus¬ wertet.Positioning the capsules in a fourth control position (40) in a waiting position, during which the computer program evaluates the images taken.
Verfahren nach Anspruch 5, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß während des Betrachtens die Kapseln (2, 3) und die Kame¬ ras (21, 31, 32, 33) stillstehen.Method according to claim 5, characterized in that the capsules (2, 3) and the cameras (21, 31, 32, 33) stand still during viewing.
Verfahren nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, da¬ durch gekennzeichnet, daß der Schritt des Umsetzens des Ergebnisses der Auswertung folgende Teilschritte auf¬ weist: Auswerfen der fehlerfreien Kapseln (2) aus der Kap¬ selhalterung (70) an einer letzten Kontrollposition (50);Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the step of converting the result of the evaluation has the following substeps: Ejecting the defect-free capsules (2) from the capsule holder (70) at a last control position (50);
Auswerfen der fehlerhaften Kapseln (3) aus der Kap¬ selhalterung (70) an einer anderen letzten Kontroll¬ position (60).Eject the defective capsules (3) from the capsule holder (70) at another last control position (60).
8. Verfahren nach Anspruch 7, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß das Auswerfen durch Ausblasen erfolgt.8. The method according to claim 7, characterized in that the ejection is carried out by blowing.
9. Einrichtung zum Sortieren von Kapseln, insbesondere Ge¬ latinekapseln, nach fehlerfreien (2) und fehlerhaften (3) Kapseln, gekennzeichnet durch folgende Merkmale: eine Kontrollstation (5) mit verschiedenen Kontroll¬ positionen (10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60) zur Aufnahme und Auswertung der Eigenschaften der Kapseln (2, 3); mehrere Kapselhalterungen (70) zur Halterung der Kapseln (2, 3) in den Kontrollpositionen; Zuführeinrichtungen (90) zur Zuführung der Kapseln (2, 3) von einem Vorratsbehälter (80) zu den Kapsel¬ halterungen (70);9. Device for sorting capsules, in particular gelatin capsules, according to error-free (2) and defective (3) capsules, characterized by the following features: a control station (5) with different control positions (10, 20, 30, 40, 50 , 60) for recording and evaluating the properties of the capsules (2, 3); a plurality of capsule holders (70) for holding the capsules (2, 3) in the control positions; Feeding devices (90) for feeding the capsules (2, 3) from a storage container (80) to the capsule holders (70);
Auswerfeinrichtungen (51, 61) zum getrennten Auswer¬ fen fehlerfreier (2) und fehlerhafter (3) Kapseln.Ejection devices (51, 61) for separate ejection of error-free (2) and faulty (3) capsules.
10. Sortiereinrichtung nach Anspruch 9, dadurch gekennzeich¬ net, daß an einigen Kontrollpositionen (20, 30) in der Kontrollstation (5) Kameras (21, 31, 32, 33) und Licht¬ quellen (22, 34) zur vollständigen Rundumbetrachtung der Kapseln (2, 3) angeordnet sind.10. Sorting device according to claim 9, characterized gekennzeich¬ net that at some control positions (20, 30) in the control station (5) cameras (21, 31, 32, 33) and Licht¬ sources (22, 34) for complete all-round viewing Capsules (2, 3) are arranged.
11. Sortiereinrichtung nach Anspruch 10, dadurch gekenn¬ zeichnet, daß für jede Kamera (21, 31, 32, 33) ein eige¬ nes Bildverarbeitungs-Computerprogramm zur elektroni¬ schen Auswertung des aufgenommenen Bildes und zur Er¬ mittlung der. Eigenschaften der Kapseln (2, 3) vorgesehen ist. 12. Sortiereinrichtung nach Anspruch 11, dadurch gekenn¬ zeichnet, daß das Computerprogramm eine Farberkennung enthält.11. Sorting device according to claim 10, characterized in that each camera (21, 31, 32, 33) has its own image processing computer program for electronically evaluating the recorded image and for determining the image. Properties of the capsules (2, 3) is provided. 12. Sorting device according to claim 11, characterized gekenn¬ characterized in that the computer program contains a color recognition.
13. Sortiereinrichtung nach Anspruch 10, dadurch gekenn¬ zeichnet, daß die Lichtquellen (22, 34) aus Leuchtdioden bestehen, die ein Licht im sichtbaren Bereich abgeben, das zur Durchleuchtung der Kapseln (2, 3) geeignet ist.13. Sorting device according to claim 10, characterized gekenn¬ characterized in that the light sources (22, 34) consist of light emitting diodes which emit light in the visible range, which is suitable for fluoroscopy of the capsules (2, 3).
14. Sortiereinrichtung nach einem der Ansprüche 10 bis 13, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Kontrollstation (5) sechs Kontrollpositionen aufweist, bei denen in der ersten Kontrollposition (10) die Kapseln (2, 3 ) in den Kapselhalterungen (70) bereitgestellt sind; in der zweiten Kontrollposition (20) mindestens eine Kamera (21) vorgesehen ist, die die Kapseln (2, 3) von einer Seite sieht; in der dritten Kontrollposition (30) mindestens eine weitere Kamera (31, 32, 33) vorgesehen ist, die die Kapseln (2, 3) von einer anderen Seite sieht; die vierte Kontrollposition (40) eine Wartestellung ist, in der das Computerprogramm das aufgenommene Bild auswertet; an der fünften (50) und sechsten (60) Kontrollposi¬ tion Einrichtungen (51, 61) zum Auswerfen der feh¬ lerfreien (2) und der fehlerhaften (3) Kapseln aus den Kapselhalterungen (70) vorgesehen sind.14. Sorting device according to one of claims 10 to 13, characterized in that the control station (5) has six control positions, in which in the first control position (10) the capsules (2, 3) are provided in the capsule holders (70); in the second control position (20) at least one camera (21) is provided which sees the capsules (2, 3) from one side; in the third control position (30) at least one further camera (31, 32, 33) is provided, which sees the capsules (2, 3) from another side; the fourth control position (40) is a waiting position in which the computer program evaluates the captured image; at the fifth (50) and sixth (60) control position devices (51, 61) for ejecting the error-free (2) and the defective (3) capsules from the capsule holders (70) are provided.
15. Sortiereinrichtung nach Anspruch 9, dadurch gekennzeich¬ net, daß jeweils eine Kapsel (2, 3) in einer Kapselhal¬ terung (70) gehaltert ist, die die verschiedenen Kon¬ trollpositionen (10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60) in der Kon¬ trollstation (5) durchläuft. 16. Sortiereinrichtung nach Anspruch 9, dadurch gekennzeich¬ net, daß die Zuführeinrichtung (90) aus einem abwärts gerichteten Rohr (91) besteht, das Sperreinrichtungen (92, 93) zur Staubildung und Vereinzelung der Kapseln (2, 3) aufweist.15. Sorting device according to claim 9, characterized gekennzeich¬ net that in each case a capsule (2, 3) in a capsule holder (70) is held, the various control positions (10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60th ) passes through in the control station (5). 16. Sorting device according to claim 9, characterized gekennzeich¬ net that the feed device (90) consists of a downward tube (91), the locking devices (92, 93) for jam formation and separation of the capsules (2, 3).
17. Sortiereinrichtung nach Anspruch 16, dadurch gekenn¬ zeichnet, daß die Kapselhalterung (70) an dem äußeren Ende der Zuführeinrichtung (90) befestigt ist.17. Sorting device according to claim 16, characterized gekenn¬ characterized in that the capsule holder (70) is attached to the outer end of the feed device (90).
18. Sortiereinrichtung nach Anspruch 17, dadurch gekenn¬ zeichnet, daß die Kapselhalterung (70) aus einer U-förmigen, nach oben offenen Schiene (71) besteht, die an ihrer Unterseite einen in Förderrichtung der Kapseln (2, 3) verlaufenden Schlitz (72) mit spitzen Kanten auf¬ weist, an denen die Kapseln anliegen, und die an ihrem äußeren Ende eine Spitze zum Abstützen der Kapseln (2, 3) aufweist.18. Sorting device according to claim 17, characterized gekenn¬ characterized in that the capsule holder (70) consists of a U-shaped, upwardly open rail (71) which on its underside in the conveying direction of the capsules (2, 3) extending slot ( 72) with pointed edges against which the capsules lie and which has a tip at its outer end for supporting the capsules (2, 3).
19. Sortiereinrichtung nach Anspruch 16, dadurch gekenn¬ zeichnet, daß die Zuführeinrichtung (90) mit ihrem obe¬ ren Ende an einer Bodenplatte (81) eines Vorratsbehäl¬ ters (80) befestigt ist, wobei die Bodenplatte (81) Lö¬ cher (82) aufweist, durch die die Kapseln (2, 3) aus dem Vorratsbehälter (80)in die Zuführeinrichtung (90) gelan¬ gen.19. Sorting device according to claim 16, characterized gekenn¬ characterized in that the feed device (90) with its upper end on a bottom plate (81) of a reservoir (80) is attached, the bottom plate (81) holes ( 82), through which the capsules (2, 3) get from the storage container (80) into the feed device (90).
20. Sortiereinrichtung nach Anspruch 19, dadurch gekenn¬ zeichnet, daß der Vorratsbehälter (80) einen Schrittmo¬ tor zur Drehung der Bodenplatte (81) relativ zu dem Ge¬ häuse (83) des Vorratsbehälters (80) aufweist.20. Sorting device according to claim 19, characterized gekenn¬ characterized in that the storage container (80) has a stepper motor for rotating the base plate (81) relative to the housing (83) of the storage container (80).
21. Sortiereinrichtung nach einem der Ansprüche 9 bis 20, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß der Schrittmotor synchron mit den Kameras (21, 31, 32, 33) läuft.21. Sorting device according to one of claims 9 to 20, characterized in that the stepper motor runs synchronously with the cameras (21, 31, 32, 33).
22. Sortiereinrichtung nach Anspruch 19, dadurch gekenn¬ zeichnet, daß an der Bodenplatte (81) sechs Zuführein¬ richtungen (90) vorgesehen sind. 23. Sortiereinrichtung nach einem der Ansprüche 9 bis 22, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß in der Kontrollstation (5) in der zweiten Kontrollposition (20) unter der Zu¬ führungsbahn (7) der Kapseln (2, 3) eine Kamera (21) vorgesehen ist, die die Kapseln von unten/hinten sieht, sowie über der Zuführungsbahn (7) eine der Kamera (21) gegenüberliegende Lichtquelle (22), die die Kapseln von oben/vorne bescheint; in der dritten Kontrollposition (30) mindestens zwei Kameras (31, 32) und eine Lichtquelle (34) vorgese¬ hen sind, wobei die Kameras (31, 32) oberhalb der Zuführungsbahn (7) der Kapseln (2, 3) angeordnet sind, von denen die eine Kamera (31) die Kapseln von rechts vorne und die andere Kamera (32) die Kapseln von links vorne sieht, wobei gegebenenfalls eine dritte Kamera (33) oberhalb der Zuführungsbahn (7) der Kapseln und geneigt zu den anderen beiden Kame¬ ras (31, 32) angeordnet ist und die Kapseln direkt von oben/vorne sieht, und wobei die Lichtquelle (34) unter der Zuführungsbahn (7) angeordnet ist und die Kapseln von unten/hinten bescheint; in der fünften Kontrollposition (50) ein Druckluft¬ ventil (51) vorgesehen ist, das die fehlerfreien Kapseln (2) aus der Kapselhalterung (70) bläst; in der sechsten Kontrollposition (60) ein Druckluftventil (61) vorgesehen ist, das die fehler¬ haften Kapseln (3) aus der Kapselhalterung (70) bläst.22. Sorting device according to claim 19, characterized gekenn¬ characterized in that six feeders (90) are provided on the base plate (81). 23. Sorting device according to one of claims 9 to 22, characterized in that a camera (21) is provided in the control station (5) in the second control position (20) under the feed path (7) of the capsules (2, 3) which sees the capsules from below / behind, and above the feed path (7) a light source (22) opposite the camera (21) which illuminates the capsules from above / in front; at least two cameras (31, 32) and a light source (34) are provided in the third control position (30), the cameras (31, 32) being arranged above the feed path (7) of the capsules (2, 3), Of which one camera (31) sees the capsules from the front on the right and the other camera (32) sees the capsules from the front on the left, a third camera (33) possibly above the feed path (7) of the capsules and inclined to the other two cameras ¬ ras (31, 32) is arranged and sees the capsules directly from above / in front, and wherein the light source (34) is arranged under the feed path (7) and illuminates the capsules from below / behind; in the fifth control position (50) there is a compressed air valve (51) which blows the defect-free capsules (2) out of the capsule holder (70); In the sixth control position (60) a compressed air valve (61) is provided which blows the defective capsules (3) out of the capsule holder (70).
24. Sortiereinrichtung nach einem der Ansprüche 9 bis 23, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß sie mehrere, insbesondere vier Kontrollstationen (5) aufweist.24. Sorting device according to one of claims 9 to 23, characterized in that it has several, in particular four control stations (5).
25. Sortiereinrichtung nach einem der Ansprüche 9 bis 24, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß sie direkt an eine Produkti- onsmaschine für Hartgelatinekapseln angeschlossen ist. 25. Sorting device according to one of claims 9 to 24, characterized in that it is connected directly to a production machine for hard gelatin capsules.
EP93912997A 1992-06-26 1993-06-16 Method and device for grading capsules Expired - Lifetime EP0648151B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE4221107A DE4221107A1 (en) 1992-06-26 1992-06-26 Method and device for sorting capsules
DE4221107 1992-06-26
PCT/EP1993/001534 WO1994000249A1 (en) 1992-06-26 1993-06-16 Method and device for grading capsules

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP0648151A1 true EP0648151A1 (en) 1995-04-19
EP0648151B1 EP0648151B1 (en) 1996-08-28

Family

ID=6461944

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP93912997A Expired - Lifetime EP0648151B1 (en) 1992-06-26 1993-06-16 Method and device for grading capsules

Country Status (9)

Country Link
US (1) US5819953A (en)
EP (1) EP0648151B1 (en)
JP (1) JPH07508458A (en)
KR (1) KR100265082B1 (en)
AT (1) ATE141834T1 (en)
CA (1) CA2139110A1 (en)
DE (2) DE4221107A1 (en)
ES (1) ES2093432T3 (en)
WO (1) WO1994000249A1 (en)

Families Citing this family (24)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE4417015A1 (en) * 1994-05-14 1995-11-16 Maschimpex Gmbh Sorting machine for sorting or classifying small products of the pharmaceutical and confectionery industries by shape and color
DE4419461B4 (en) * 1994-06-05 2004-08-05 Massen, Robert, Prof. Dr.-Ing. Automatic sorting of used batteries
FR2775204A1 (en) * 1998-02-25 1999-08-27 Pellenc Sa Sorting of fruit and vegetables based on at least one of their characteristics
US20070000939A1 (en) * 2002-10-29 2007-01-04 Vasilios Vasiadis Device for handling and orientating pills or tablets in a precise manner
US20050092660A1 (en) * 2003-10-29 2005-05-05 Vasilios Vasiadis Device for handling and orientating pills or tablets in a precise manner
AU2003287727A1 (en) * 2002-11-13 2004-06-03 Ackley Machine Corporation Laser unit, inspection unit, method for inspecting pellet-shaped articles and pharmaceutical article
US7285061B2 (en) * 2003-08-04 2007-10-23 Ervin Wagner Sports skills training method and apparatus
US20050242304A1 (en) * 2004-04-29 2005-11-03 Armbuster Lynn E Diffuse light pharmaceutical inspection system and process
US8121392B2 (en) * 2004-10-25 2012-02-21 Parata Systems, Llc Embedded imaging and control system
DE102005049958A1 (en) * 2005-10-19 2007-04-26 Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma Gmbh & Co. Kg 100% optical semiquantitative filling control of pharmaceutical capsules on capsule filling machines
US20070194034A1 (en) * 2006-02-17 2007-08-23 Vasilios Vasiadis Device for printing pills, tablets or caplets in a precise manner
US8078329B2 (en) * 2006-09-29 2011-12-13 Courtoy Nv System for rejection of tablets produced in a rotary tablet press and a method of rejection of tablets
US20080149541A1 (en) * 2006-12-05 2008-06-26 Bigney Nicholas D Apparatus, system, and method for detecting and removing flawed capsules
JP2012501824A (en) * 2008-09-05 2012-01-26 ソルドファ エス．エイ．アール．エル． Capsule automatic sorter
CN103210296B (en) 2010-06-01 2016-08-10 阿克莱机械公司 Inspection system
DE102011007269A1 (en) * 2011-04-13 2012-10-18 Robert Bosch Gmbh control device
CN105834127B (en) * 2016-06-02 2020-04-28 浙江汇力胶囊有限公司 Platform is examined to full-automatic capsule lamp
KR102022302B1 (en) * 2016-10-25 2019-11-04 태영산업 주식회사 apparatus for manufacturing cigarette filter
KR101967763B1 (en) * 2017-03-28 2019-04-10 태영산업 주식회사 sorting apparatus for cigarette capsule
US10892048B2 (en) * 2017-09-28 2021-01-12 Puli Pravin Reddy Machine learning pill identification
CN109622392B (en) * 2018-12-28 2024-05-03 浙江天瑞制药机械有限公司 Automatic soft capsule video sorting device
WO2020202039A1 (en) 2019-04-05 2020-10-08 Blue Sky Ventures (Ontario) Inc. Vibratory conveyor for conveying items and related filling machine and methods
CA3134804A1 (en) 2019-04-05 2020-10-08 Blue Sky Ventures (Ontario) Inc. Sensor assembly for moving items and related filling machine and methods
KR102150970B1 (en) * 2019-07-12 2020-09-02 (주)엔에프에이 Device for inspecting drugs with backlihgt source

Family Cites Families (9)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2617527A (en) * 1948-08-20 1952-11-11 Western Electric Co Apparatus for loading and selectively unloading
US4144970A (en) * 1977-08-10 1979-03-20 Eli Lilly And Company Inspection apparatus for filled capsule
US4300689A (en) * 1978-01-16 1981-11-17 Hoffmann-La Roche Inc. Dual wavelength spectrophotometer for ampoule leak detection and content inspection
JPS5571937A (en) * 1978-11-24 1980-05-30 Kanebo Ltd Method of and device for inspecting surface
DE3608989A1 (en) * 1986-03-18 1987-09-24 Lorenz Ing Grad Bohle DEVICE FOR CLASSIFYING PIECE PRODUCTS BY LENGTH
SU1388112A1 (en) * 1986-07-18 1988-04-15 Предприятие П/Я В-8906 Rotor for sorting articles
DE8706655U1 (en) * 1987-05-08 1988-06-09 Maschimpex GmbH, 7990 Friedrichshafen Sorting machine for sorting small objects
JPH01249181A (en) * 1988-03-31 1989-10-04 Tdk Corp Parts sorting method for automatic appearance screening machine for chip parts
DE4011965A1 (en) * 1990-04-12 1991-10-17 Zedete Ges Fuer Qualitaetssich Quality control device for axi-symmetrical parts - uses photocomparison techniques to gauge size with computer processing image

Non-Patent Citations (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Title
See references of WO9400249A1 *

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
ATE141834T1 (en) 1996-09-15
EP0648151B1 (en) 1996-08-28
DE4221107A1 (en) 1994-01-05
ES2093432T3 (en) 1996-12-16
US5819953A (en) 1998-10-13
DE59303591D1 (en) 1996-10-02
JPH07508458A (en) 1995-09-21
CA2139110A1 (en) 1994-01-06
KR950702091A (en) 1995-06-19
KR100265082B1 (en) 2000-09-01
WO1994000249A1 (en) 1994-01-06

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
EP0648151B1 (en) Method and device for grading capsules
DE2427054C3 (en) Apparatus for testing machine-molded articles
EP1130384B1 (en) Inspecting machine
DE69528702T2 (en) SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR AUTOMATIC FEEDING, TESTING AND LEADING OF TABLETS FOR THE CONTINUOUS FILLING OF TABLET TANKS
EP2112502B1 (en) Method and device for checking preformed containers
DE3801388C2 (en) Process for electro-optical parcel inspection
DE3906281A1 (en) METHOD AND DEVICE FOR OPTICALLY CHECKING THE APPEARANCE OF CHIP-LIKE COMPONENTS AND SORTING THE CHIP-LIKE COMPONENTS
WO2018166894A1 (en) Automated conveying device
DE4417015A1 (en) Sorting machine for sorting or classifying small products of the pharmaceutical and confectionery industries by shape and color
EP2825365B1 (en) Process and device for detecting faulty preforms and related calculation process.
DE102018102055A1 (en) Device and method for checking the labeling and / or printing accuracy
DE3587927T2 (en) Method and device for the automatic examination of tablets.
DE1473688C3 (en) Method for the non-destructive testing of glass products and device for carrying out the method
DE19511948A1 (en) Sepg. device for small components, e.g. tablets and capsules
DE102020206748A1 (en) DEVICE FOR FILLING AND PACKAGING CAPSULES IN BOTTLES
DE69933524T2 (en) Device for detecting and orienting the orientation of reusable cameras
WO2022200375A1 (en) Method and device for checking pipette tips
EP3909872A1 (en) Method and assembly for transferring products
EP3165908B1 (en) Device for inspection of at least one printed image
WO2010100023A1 (en) Method and device for separating retained samples
DE3310440C2 (en) Method and device for marking objects
DE19633326A1 (en) Controlling quality of workpieces by taking successive images of them
EP1868898B1 (en) Method and device for sorting caps
DE19756532A1 (en) Method for sorting used bottles by colour for recycling
DE4427316A1 (en) Non contact tablet tester guards against defects which can reduce dose

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
PUAI Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012

17P Request for examination filed

Effective date: 19941209

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: A1

Designated state(s): AT BE CH DE DK ES FR GB GR IE IT LI LU NL PT SE

17Q First examination report despatched

Effective date: 19951120

GRAH Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOS IGRA

GRAH Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOS IGRA

GRAA (expected) grant

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009210

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: B1

Designated state(s): AT BE CH DE DK ES FR GB GR IE IT LI LU NL PT SE

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: GR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 19960828

Ref country code: DK

Effective date: 19960828

REF Corresponds to:

Ref document number: 141834

Country of ref document: AT

Date of ref document: 19960915

Kind code of ref document: T

REF Corresponds to:

Ref document number: 59303591

Country of ref document: DE

Date of ref document: 19961002

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: IE

Ref legal event code: FG4D

Free format text: 69636

ITF It: translation for a ep patent filed
GBT Gb: translation of ep patent filed (gb section 77(6)(a)/1977)

Effective date: 19961106

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: SE

Effective date: 19961128

Ref country code: PT

Effective date: 19961128

ET Fr: translation filed
REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: NV

Representative=s name: PATENTANWAELTE SCHAAD, BALASS, MENZL & PARTNER AG

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: ES

Ref legal event code: FG2A

Ref document number: 2093432

Country of ref document: ES

Kind code of ref document: T3

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: IE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 19970416

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: IE

Ref legal event code: FD4D

Ref document number: 69636

Country of ref document: IE

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: AT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 19970616

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: LU

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 19970630

PLBE No opposition filed within time limit

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009261

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: NO OPPOSITION FILED WITHIN TIME LIMIT

26N No opposition filed
REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: GB

Ref legal event code: 746

Effective date: 20001019

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: GB

Payment date: 20010601

Year of fee payment: 9

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: FR

Ref legal event code: D6

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: FR

Payment date: 20010618

Year of fee payment: 9

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: CH

Payment date: 20010622

Year of fee payment: 9

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: BE

Payment date: 20010625

Year of fee payment: 9

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: NL

Payment date: 20010626

Year of fee payment: 9

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: GB

Ref legal event code: IF02

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: GB

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20020616

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: LI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20020630

Ref country code: CH

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20020630

Ref country code: BE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20020630

BERE Be: lapsed

Owner name: R.P. *SCHERER G.M.B.H.

Effective date: 20020630

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: NL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20030101

GBPC Gb: european patent ceased through non-payment of renewal fee

Effective date: 20020616

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: PL

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: FR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20030228

NLV4 Nl: lapsed or anulled due to non-payment of the annual fee

Effective date: 20030101

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: FR

Ref legal event code: ST

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: IT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20050616

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: DE

Payment date: 20120613

Year of fee payment: 20

Ref country code: ES

Payment date: 20120726

Year of fee payment: 20

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R071

Ref document number: 59303591

Country of ref document: DE

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: DE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF EXPIRATION OF PROTECTION

Effective date: 20130618

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: ES

Ref legal event code: FD2A

Effective date: 20140828

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: ES

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF EXPIRATION OF PROTECTION

Effective date: 20130617