JP2008119459A - Counting device of dispensing device and inventory management device using the same - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a counting device of a dispensing device, capable of automatically counting the number of tablet sheets for highly reliable inventory management, and an inventory management device using the same. <P>SOLUTION: The counter 431 of the dispensing device 1 is for counting the number of PTP (press through package) tablet sheets 900 stacked in a tablet cassette 500. An opening 531a is bored on the front wall 531 of the tablet cassette 500, and the counter 431 is disposed to face the opening 531a of the tablet cassette 500 to count the number of the PTP tablet sheets 900 through the opening 531a. The inventory management data on the PTP tablet sheets 900 are created based on the data on the counted number of the PTP tablet sheets 900 counted by the counter 431 and the data on the package unit stored in a storage part 30 as a database related to the medicament information. The inventory is managed based on these inventory management data. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2008,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a counting device of a dispensing device and an inventory management device using the counting device, and particularly to the dispensing device that automatically dispenses a packaged tablet called a PTP (press-through package) tablet sheet into a tablet cassette. It is suitable for an apparatus that counts the number of tablet sheets and an apparatus that performs inventory management based on the number of tablet sheets counted using the counting apparatus.

  Traditionally, pharmacists perform dispensing work in pharmacies such as hospitals according to doctors' prescriptions, but in general hospitals where medical fields are wide, there are many types of tablets that can be taken out at all times, and storage locations are limited. Not only was it necessary, but the work of dispensing based on prescriptions was very mentally and physically burdensome.

  Therefore, a dispensing device has been developed that automatically dispenses a predetermined number of predetermined tablets including a fraction of a PTP tablet sheet based on a preset program (see, for example, Patent Documents 1 and 2). The PTP tablet sheet is a packaging format in which tablets are taken out by breaking the aluminum sheet portion at the bottom by pressing the tablet side. Generally, 10 or more tablets are made into one sheet. Supplied.

  Here, the tablet cassette in which a plurality of PTP tablet sheets are placed is housed in a cassette shelf, and the claw portion of the chucking device mounted on the head device is directly in the groove formed on the front surface of the tablet cassette. Intrusion and relative positioning are performed, and the PTP tablet sheet at the lowest position in the tablet cassette is chucked and automatically taken out.

In such a dispensing device, the number of PTP tablet sheets loaded in each tablet cassette is grasped by subtracting the automatically extracted number from the initial value data stored in the control device. So-called inventory management was performed.
JP-A-4-269960 Japanese Utility Model Publication No. 5-052233

  By the way, when a medicine is urgently required, a desired PTP tablet sheet may be manually taken out from a certain tablet cassette. On the contrary, the PTP tablet sheet that has been used excessively may be returned to another tablet cassette. For such reasons, it is normal that the inventory management data and the number of PTP tablet sheets actually loaded in each tablet cassette do not match. Therefore, it is necessary to manually check the number of PTP tablet sheets loaded in each tablet cassette and update the inventory management data.

  However, it is very troublesome to manually confirm the number of PTP tablet sheets of enormous types, and this is even more because the PTP tablet sheets are frequently taken out and returned manually. In addition, in manual confirmation, there is a possibility that the number of PTP tablet sheets is erroneously counted. If inventory management is performed based on the number of erroneously counted PTP tablet sheets, the reliability of the inventory management data is reduced. It can be detrimental.

  The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances. The counting device of a dispensing device capable of automatically counting the number of PTP tablet sheets and obtaining highly reliable inventory management data, and the use thereof are provided. An object of the present invention is to provide a stock management apparatus.

  The present invention is a counting device of a dispensing device provided with a counter that counts the number of tablet sheets loaded in a tablet cassette, wherein an opening is provided on one side of the tablet cassette, and the counter It is arranged so as to face the opening of the cassette and counts the number of tablet sheets viewed through the opening.

  According to the present invention, an opening is provided on one side of the tablet cassette, and the counter is arranged to face the opening of the tablet cassette, and counts the number of tablet sheets that are viewed from the opening. The number of tablet sheets loaded in the tablet cassette can be automatically counted. Therefore, even if the tablet sheet is frequently replenished or taken out from the tablet cassette, the number of tablet sheets can be surely grasped following that.

  According to a second aspect of the present invention, as the counter, as the counter, a light sensor that projects light onto a front end portion of the tablet sheet viewed from the opening of the tablet cassette and receives reflected light thereof, and the light included in the received light. It is preferable to include a first counting unit that counts the number of tablet sheets based on distance information from the sensor to the tip of the tablet sheet.

  According to invention of Claim 2, as said counter, the optical sensor which light-projects to the front-end | tip part of the tablet sheet peeped from the opening part of the said tablet cassette, and receives the reflected light, and this light contained in this received light Since the first counting means for counting the number of the tablet sheets based on the distance information from the sensor to the tip of the tablet sheet is provided, the number of the tablet sheets can be counted in a non-contact manner. Therefore, even if the tablet sheet is easily deformed, the number of the tablet sheets can be accurately grasped.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, the optical sensor is mounted on a chucking mechanism for taking out a tablet sheet from the tablet cassette, and the opening of the tablet cassette is scanned by the chucking mechanism, thereby It is preferable that the received light is detected by an optical sensor.

  According to invention of Claim 3, the said optical sensor is mounted in the chucking mechanism which takes out a tablet sheet from the said tablet cassette, and the said chucking mechanism scans the opening part of the said tablet cassette, Since the optical sensor detects the received light, the number of tablet sheets loaded in the tablet cassette can be automatically counted each time the scan is performed. Therefore, even if the tablet sheet is frequently replenished or taken out from the tablet cassette, the number of tablet sheets can be adjusted to follow the scan as long as the scanning timing is set appropriately. It will be possible to grasp with certainty.

  According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, as the counter, as the counter, an image pickup means for picking up an image of a tablet sheet viewed from the opening of the tablet cassette, and a second counting means for counting the number of the tablet sheets based on the picked-up image It is preferable to comprise.

  According to invention of Claim 4, as said counter, the imaging means which images the tablet sheet peeped from the opening part of the said tablet cassette, and the 2nd counting means which counts the number of this tablet sheet based on this captured image In this case, the number of tablet sheets can be counted without contact. Therefore, even if the tablet sheet is easily deformed, the number of the tablet sheets can be accurately grasped.

  By the way, when optically counting the number of tablet sheets, the upper surface of the tablet cassette may be erroneously counted as the uppermost tablet sheet, and the lower surface of the tablet cassette may be erroneously counted as the lowermost tablet sheet. There is. Therefore, as in the invention described in claim 5, it is preferable that the upper surface and the bottom surface of the tablet cassette facing the opening are cut out by a predetermined amount.

  According to the fifth aspect of the present invention, since the upper surface and the bottom surface of the tablet cassette facing the opening are cut out by a predetermined amount, the upper surface of the tablet cassette is erroneously counted as the uppermost tablet sheet. In addition, the bottom of the tablet cassette is not erroneously counted as the lowest tablet sheet. Therefore, the number of tablet sheets can be grasped more accurately.

  By the way, since there is little deformation | transformation in the case of a thick tablet sheet, you may contact it and may count the number of tablet sheets. Therefore, as in the invention described in claim 6, as the counting device, a height sensor that detects the highest position of the tablet sheet by contacting the tablet sheet viewed from the opening of the cassette, and the highest position of the tablet sheet. It is preferable to include a third counting means for counting the number of the tablet sheets based on the third counting means.

  According to the invention of claim 6, as the counter, a height sensor that detects the highest position of the tablet sheet by contacting the tablet sheet viewed from the opening of the cassette, and based on the highest position of the tablet sheet. Since the third counting means for counting the number of tablet sheets is provided, the number of tablet sheets can be counted by contact. Therefore, if the tablet sheet is difficult to deform, the number of the tablet sheets can be grasped more easily.

  By the way, in the invention described in claim 2, since it is necessary to detect the received light for all the tablet sheets from the lowest position to the highest position loaded on the tablet cassette, the tablets loaded on the tablet cassette. It may take too long to count the number of sheets. In particular, in the scanning operation according to the third aspect of the invention, the sheet height, which is the maximum height per tablet sheet loaded in the tablet cassette, has been reduced to the scanning speed at which the lowest drug can be detected. It may take more time to complete the scan of all tablet cassettes. Accordingly, as in the seventh aspect of the invention, a memory for storing sheet height information indicating the maximum height of one tablet sheet stacked in the tablet cassette, and sheet height information stored in the memory. Reading means, and as the counter, an optical sensor that projects light onto the tip of the tablet sheet viewed from the opening of the tablet cassette and receives the reflected light, and the tablet sheet contained in the received light It is preferable to include a fourth counting unit that counts the number of the tablet sheets based on the highest position information and the sheet height information read by the reading unit.

  According to invention of Claim 7, the memory which memorize | stores the sheet height information which shows the maximum height per sheet | seat loaded on the said tablet cassette, and the sheet height information memorize | stored in this memory Reading means, and as the counter, an optical sensor that projects light onto the tip of the tablet sheet viewed from the opening of the tablet cassette and receives the reflected light, and the tablet sheet included in the received light. Since there is provided a fourth counting means for counting the number of the tablet sheets based on the highest position information and the sheet height information read by the reading means, the highest position tablet sheet loaded in the tablet cassette Only the received light is detected, and the time for counting the number of tablet sheets loaded in the tablet cassette is shortened. Therefore, even if the sheet height, which is the maximum height per tablet sheet loaded in the tablet cassette, is reduced to the scan speed at which the lowest chemical can be detected, all tablet cassettes are scanned. The time until completion is surely shortened.

  According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, it is preferable that the fourth counting means further counts the number of tablet sheets using the minimum position information of the tablet sheets included in the received light.

  According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, the fourth counting means further counts the number of tablet sheets using the minimum position information of the tablet sheets included in the received light, so that it is loaded on the tablet cassette. The received light is detected for the lowest and highest tablet sheets, and the detection time is slightly increased compared to the invention of claim 7, but the number of tablet sheets loaded in the tablet cassette is reduced. It is possible to count more accurately.

  Further, in the invention according to claim 3, due to the characteristics of the optical sensor, the influence of the error of the material, color, and surface roughness of the sheet end surface, which is a minute spot on which light from the optical sensor is incident, the sheet end surface after filling The counting error of the tablet sheet may occur due to the influence of the incident angle of light and the like. Accordingly, as in the ninth aspect of the invention, a memory for storing sheet height information indicating the maximum height of one tablet sheet loaded in the tablet cassette, and a sheet height stored in the memory. Reading means for reading information, and a reflector is placed on the tablet sheet at the highest position stacked on the tablet cassette, and the counter is projected onto the reflector as viewed from the opening of the tablet cassette. The number of the tablet sheets is counted based on the optical sensor that receives the reflected light, the height position information of the reflector included in the received light, and the sheet height information read by the reading means. And a fifth counting means.

  According to invention of Claim 9, the memory which memorize | stores the sheet height information which shows the maximum height per sheet | seat loaded on the said tablet cassette, and the sheet height information memorize | stored in this memory are stored. Reading means, and a reflector is placed on the tablet sheet at the highest position loaded on the tablet cassette, and the counter is projected onto the reflector as viewed from the opening of the tablet cassette. A photo sensor that receives the reflected light, a height position information of the reflector included in the received light, and a sheet height information that is read by the reading means, and counts the number of the tablet sheets. Since the five counting means are provided, a stable counting of the number of tablet sheets is always ensured regardless of the state of the sheet end face. Further, only the received light of the reflector loaded in the tablet cassette is detected, and the time for counting the number of tablet sheets loaded in the tablet cassette is shortened. Therefore, even if the sheet height, which is the maximum height per tablet sheet loaded in the tablet cassette, is reduced to the scan speed at which the lowest chemical can be detected, all tablet cassettes are scanned. The time until completion is surely shortened.

  As in the invention of claim 10, the reflector is placed so as to be able to follow the dropping operation of the tablet sheet at the highest position by being sequentially taken out from the tablet sheet at the lowest position in the tablet cassette, It is preferable that the press plate is provided with a mirror seal on the side facing the opening of the tablet cassette.

  According to the invention of claim 10, the reflector is placed so as to be able to follow the dropping operation of the tablet sheet at the highest position by being sequentially taken out from the tablet sheet at the lowest position in the tablet cassette, Since the press plate is provided with a mirror seal on the side facing the opening of the tablet cassette, the press plate reliably reflects the light incident from the optical sensor, so that the number of stable tablet sheets is always maintained. Will be guaranteed.

  The memory is an IC tag attached in the vicinity of the opening of the tablet cassette, and the reading means is a reader for reading sheet height information stored in the IC tag. The optical sensor and the reader are mounted on a chucking mechanism for taking out a tablet sheet from the tablet cassette, and the optical sensor is scanned by scanning the opening of the tablet cassette and the vicinity thereof with the chucking mechanism. It is preferable that the received light is detected and the sheet height stored in the IC tag is read by the reader.

  According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, the memory is an IC tag attached in the vicinity of the opening of the tablet cassette, and the reading means is a reader for reading sheet height information stored in the IC tag. The optical sensor and the reader are mounted on a chucking mechanism for taking out a tablet sheet from the tablet cassette, and the optical sensor is scanned by scanning the opening of the tablet cassette and the vicinity thereof with the chucking mechanism. Since the sheet height stored in the IC tag is read by the reader, the detection of the received light and the reading of the sheet height are almost performed each time the scan is performed. Simultaneously, the number of tablet sheets loaded in the tablet cassette can be automatically counted. Therefore, even if the tablet sheet is frequently replenished or taken out from the tablet cassette, the number of tablet sheets can be adjusted to follow the scan as long as the scanning timing is set appropriately. It will be possible to grasp with certainty. At this time, even if the sheet height, which is the maximum height per tablet sheet loaded in the tablet cassette, has been reduced to the scan speed at which the lowest chemical can be detected, all tablet cassettes are scanned. It is possible to reliably reduce the time until the completion.

  The invention according to claim 12 is pre-stored in the storage unit as a database related to the count number of tablet sheets counted using the counting device of the dispensing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 11 and drug information. Based on the stored packaging unit data, the present invention relates to an inventory management device of a dispensing device that creates actual inventory information of the tablet sheet and performs inventory management based on the actual inventory information. is there.

  According to the twelfth aspect of the present invention, the storage unit stores a count number of tablet sheets counted using the counting device of the dispensing apparatus according to any one of the first to eleventh aspects and a database relating to drug information. Based on the packaging unit data stored in advance, the actual inventory information of the tablet sheet is created, and inventory management is performed based on the actual inventory information, so the number of tablet sheets automatically counted Can be used for more reliable inventory management.

  According to the present invention, an opening is provided on one side of the tablet cassette, and the counter is arranged to face the opening of the tablet cassette, and counts the number of tablet sheets that are viewed from the opening. The number of tablet sheets loaded in the tablet cassette can be automatically counted. Therefore, even if the tablet sheet is frequently replenished or taken out from the tablet cassette, the number of tablet sheets can be surely grasped following that. Furthermore, more reliable inventory management can be performed using the automatically counted number of tablet sheets and the packaging unit data stored in advance in the storage unit as a database relating to drug information. It becomes like this.

(Embodiment 1)
FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view showing main components of a dispensing device 1 according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the dispensing device 1 includes two Y carriages 200 and 200 provided on the left and right sides of the box-shaped device main body 100, and X carriages supported by the Y carriages 200 and 200, respectively. 300, 300, chucking units (corresponding to a chucking mechanism) 400, 400 supported by these X carriages 300, 300, and two on the front left and right sides of the apparatus main body 100, respectively, .., Cassette shelves 600, 600 on which tablet cassettes 500, 500,... Can be mounted side by side, cutting units 700, 700 disposed below these cassette shelves 600, 600, and left and right cassette shelves 600, respectively. , 600, and a single conveyor core disposed between the left and right ends of both cassette shelves 600, 600. And a bare unit 800.

  Hereinafter, representative components of a plurality of components will be described.

  The Y carriage 200 includes a servo motor 210, a ball screw 220 in the vertical axis direction (Y direction in FIG. 1) driven by the servo motor 210, vertical guides 230 and 230 respectively disposed on the left and right of the ball screw 220, The X carriage 300 includes a carriage main body 310 that moves up and down together with the nut 240 by the rotation of the ball screw 220 while being guided by the vertical guides 230 and 230, and the carriage main body. On 310, a servo motor 410, a ball screw 415 in the horizontal axis direction (X direction in FIG. 1) driven by the servo motor 410, and a nut (not shown) are provided.

  2 is a perspective view of the tablet cassette 500 as viewed from the side facing the chucking unit 400, FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of the tablet cassette 500, FIG. 4 is a side sectional view showing a state before sheet cueing, and FIG. FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing a specific configuration of a main body lower part 540 of the cassette main body 520. In the following, the side of the tablet cassette 500 that faces the chucking unit 400 is referred to as the front, and the opposite side is referred to as the rear.

  The tablet cassette 500 in the first embodiment is formed to be slightly wider than various PTP tablet sheets (corresponding to tablet sheets) 900 to be stacked. Accordingly, a plurality of tablet cassettes 500 having different width dimensions are prepared according to the widths of various PTP tablet sheets 900. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the specific configuration thereof is a long cassette base 510 having a concave cross section, and a cassette body 520 that is detachably fitted from the longitudinal direction of the cassette base 510. It is made up of.

  As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, protrusions 512 and 512 having L-shapes in a side view are formed in the front and rear (and left and right), respectively, on the back side of the bottom plate 511 of the cassette base 510, and the rear end of the bottom plate 511 is A tongue piece 513 that is bent upward and has elasticity is formed. A support member 514 having a reverse concave shape in cross section is formed on the surface side of the rear portion of the bottom plate 511, and two left and right tongue pieces 515 and 515 that are cantilevered by the support member 514 are formed so as to be lowered toward the front. Has been. As shown in FIG. 2, the support member 514 and the tongue pieces 515 and 515 are both disposed in the left and right side walls 516 and 517 of the cassette base 510, and the tongue pieces 515 and 515 are used for the PTP tablet sheet. A fraction of 900, 900,... Is chucked. However, the number of the strips 515 is not limited to two but may be one or three or more.

  The cassette main body 520 further includes a main body upper part 530 on which a plurality of PTP tablet sheets 900, 900,... Can be stacked, and a main body lower part 540 attached integrally with the lower part of the main body upper part 530. .

  The main body lower part 540 is disposed so as to be buried in the left and right side walls 516 and 517 of the cassette base 510 in the assembled state of the cassette main body 520 to the cassette base 510. As shown, a link mechanism 550 for sequentially taking out the PTP tablet sheets 900 stacked at the bottom of the upper portion 530 of the main body is provided on a bottom plate 541 having a long shape with a concave cross section.

  The link mechanism 550 is located at the rear portion of the bottom plate 541 of the main body lower portion 540, and is rotatably supported at a substantially central portion in the width direction thereof, and the rear end side is at one end side of the rotary member 542. When the front end side pressing member 543 receives a pressing force from the chuck 430, the first sliding member 544 can be moved rearward against the elastic biasing force of the tension spring 544a. A second slide which is arranged in parallel with one slide member 544 and whose rear end side is rotatably connected to the other end side of the rotating member 542 and is movable in the opposite direction to the first slide member 544. The second slide member 545 is provided with an extruding member 546 for extruding the PTP tablet sheet 900 stacked at the bottom. That.

  As shown in FIGS. 2 to 5, the main body upper part 530 is embedded in the left and right side walls 516 and 517 of the cassette base 510 from the rear part to the intermediate part in an assembled state with the cassette base 510 of the cassette main body 520. The side wall 516 and 517 of the cassette base 510 are projected from the middle part to the front part of the cassette base 510 so as to project in an L shape when viewed from the side. The projected front walls 531 are bent inward at the front end. Thus, they are arranged to face each other with a predetermined gap. The upper ends of the front walls 531 are connected to each other by a reinforcing plate (upper surface) 532, and the front portion of the reinforcing plate 532 is cut out by a predetermined amount.

  A bar-like member 533 is erected on the rear part of the upper part 530 of the main body, and is laid down when the PTP tablet sheets 900, 900,... Are filled, so that the PTP tablet sheet 900, The PTP tablet sheets 900, 900,... Are aligned by raising the rod-like member 533 while sandwiching 900,.

  As shown in FIG. 2, an opening 531 a through which each of the tablet sheets 900, 900,. Further, the counter 431 mounted on the chucking unit 400 can count the number of tablet sheets 900, 900,... For the counter 431, for example, a reflective laser type distance sensor 431a, a captured image recognition device 431b, a contact type sensor 431c, and the like are used.

  FIG. 7 is a side sectional view showing a state in which the number of PTP tablet sheets 900 in the tablet cassette 500 is counted using a reflective laser type distance sensor 431 a as the counter 431. FIG. 8 is a view showing a state in which the number of PTP tablet sheets 900 in the tablet cassette 500 is counted using the captured image recognition device 431b as the counter 431, where (a) is a side sectional view and (b). Is a binarized captured image. FIG. 9 is a side sectional view showing a state in which the number of PTP tablet sheets 900 in the tablet cassette 500 is counted using a contact sensor 431c as a counter 431. Hereinafter, each counting method will be described in detail.

(1) When counting the number of PTP tablet sheets 900, 900,... In the tablet cassette 500 using a reflective laser type distance sensor 431a as the counter 431:
In this case, as shown in FIG. 7, a plurality of PTP tablet sheets 900, 900,... Are vertically moved by the bar-shaped member 533 on the bottom plate (bottom surface) 534 of the main body upper portion 530 of the tablet cassette 500. It is in an aligned state. The front portion of the bottom plate 534 is cut out by a predetermined amount, and the tips of the PTP tablet sheets 900, 900,... Are overhanged on the cutout portion 535.

  Then, while moving the chucking unit 400 up and down, laser light is directed toward the PTP tablet sheet 900 on the tablet cassette 500 from a reflective laser type distance sensor (corresponding to an optical sensor) 431a as the counter 431. When the light is projected, reflected light from the sheet main body 910 of the PTP tablet sheet 900 and reflected light from the tablet 920 of the PTP tablet sheet 900 are alternately detected.

  Then, there is a slight time difference from the light projection to the reflected light detection in the counter 431. By calculating this time difference in the controller 10, the distance D2 from the counter 431 to the sheet main body 910 of the PTP tablet sheet 900 and the counter 431 The distance D1 to the tablet 920 of the PTP tablet sheet 900 can be detected.

  Therefore, the threshold value D is set as D1 ≦ D <D2, and the number of detections when the distance not exceeding the threshold value D is detected is counted, and the PTP tablet sheet 900 in the tablet cassette 500 is counted. The number of sheets can be detected (function as a first counting means).

  At this time, since the front ends of the respective PTP tablet sheets 900, 900,... Are overhanged on the notch 535 in the front portion of the bottom plate 534 of the tablet cassette 500, the lowermost in the tablet cassette 500. The sheet main body 910 of the PTP tablet sheet 900 mounted on can be easily detected. Further, since the front portion of the reinforcing plate 532 is also cut out, the sheet main body 910 of the uppermost PTP tablet sheet 900 can be easily detected. In this way, the number of PTP tablet sheets 900 in each tablet cassette 500 can be accurately detected without contact.

(2) When counting the number of PTP tablet sheets 900 in the tablet cassette 500 using the captured image recognition device 431b as the counter 431:
Also in this case, a plurality of PTP tablet sheets 900, 900,... Are placed on the bottom plate (bottom surface) 534 of the main body upper portion 530 of the tablet cassette 500 as shown in FIG. Are aligned in the vertical direction. The front portion of the bottom plate 534 is cut out by a predetermined amount, and the tips of the PTP tablet sheets 900, 900,... Are overhanged on the cutout portion 535.

  Then, while moving the chucking unit 400 up and down, the PTP tablet sheet 900 on the tablet cassette 500 is imaged by the imaging unit (corresponding to imaging means) of the captured image recognition device 431b as the counter 431. When this captured image is binarized by a CPU (not shown) of the controller 10, a black and white striped image as shown in FIG. 8B is obtained. The white portion of the image corresponds to the imaging portion of the sheet body 910 of the PTP tablet sheet 900, and the black portion of the image corresponds to the imaging portion of the tablet 920 of the PTP tablet sheet 900.

  Therefore, the number of PTP tablet sheets 900 in the tablet cassette 500 can be detected only by counting the number of repetitions of the black and white portion of the image (this is a function as a second counting means).

  At this time, since the front ends of the respective PTP tablet sheets 900, 900,... Are overhanged on the notch 535 in the front portion of the bottom plate 534 of the tablet cassette 500, the lowermost in the tablet cassette 500. The sheet main body 910 of the PTP tablet sheet 900 mounted on can be easily detected. Further, since the front portion of the reinforcing plate 532 is also cut out, the sheet main body 910 of the uppermost PTP tablet sheet 900 can be easily detected. In this way, the number of PTP tablet sheets 900 in each tablet cassette 500 can be accurately detected without contact.

(3) When counting the number of PTP tablet sheets 900 in the tablet cassette 500 using the contact sensor 431c as the counter 431:
Also in this case, a plurality of PTP tablet sheets 900, 900,... Are vertically aligned by the rod-shaped member 533 on the bottom plate 534 in the upper part 530 of the main body of the tablet cassette 500, as shown in FIG. It is in the state. In this case, the notch 535 at the front of the bottom plate 534 is not necessary, but the notch at the front of the reinforcing plate 532 is necessary in order to pass the arm 143c described below.

  Then, while moving the chucking unit 400 up and down, the uppermost PTP tablet sheet 900 on the tablet cassette 500 is traced with the arm of the contact sensor (corresponding to a height sensor) 143c as the counter 431. The height can be detected.

  Therefore, the controller 10 can detect the number of PTP tablet sheets 900 in the tablet cassette 500 by simply tracing the top PTP tablet sheet 900 on the tablet cassette 500 and detecting the height thereof (third count). Function as a means).

  In this way, the number of PTP tablet sheets 900 in each tablet cassette 500 can be detected inexpensively and accurately.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the chucking unit 400 includes a Z carriage 411 extending forward (Z direction in FIG. 1) from the carriage body 310, a rotary solenoid 420 disposed on the Z carriage 411, and the rotary solenoid 420. Chuck 430 driven by the horizontal axis, horizontal guides 440 and 440 respectively disposed on the left and right sides of the chuck 430, a primary bucket 450 provided at a lower portion between the horizontal guides 440 and 440, and a front portion of the primary bucket 450 A line sensor 460 provided and a secondary bucket 480 with a shutter 470 provided below the primary bucket 450 are provided. The Z carriage 411 is composed of a servo motor (not shown), a ball screw, and a nut.

  If it is not necessary to punch the fraction of the PTP tablet sheet 900, the chuck 430 of the chucking unit 400 moves forward in response to an operation command from a controller (not shown), and the chuck 430 directly uses the tablet cassette. By pressing the pressing member 543 of 500, the first slide member 544 of the link mechanism 550 is retracted against the elastic biasing force of the tension spring 544a. With the retracted first slide member 544, one end side of the rotating member 542 is pressed to rotate the rotating member 542 counterclockwise in FIG. Then, the second slide member 545 is advanced on the other end side of the rotated rotating member 542. The pushing member 546 is moved forward by the advanced second slide member 545.

  By pressing the rear end of the PTP tablet sheet 900 loaded on the lowermost side of the tablet cassette 500 with the moved extruding member 546, the front end of the PTP tablet sheet 900 slightly protrudes from the tablet cassette 500. From the state shown in FIG. 4 to the state shown in FIG. 5, so-called cueing is performed. The chucked PTP tablet sheet 900 is chucked by the chuck 430 and pulled forward, and the chucking by the chuck 430 is released in order to drop the pulled PTP tablet sheet 900 into the primary bucket 450. The primary bucket 450 is moved onto the secondary bucket 480 using the X carriage 300 and the Y carriage 200. Then, a bottom shutter (not shown) of the primary bucket 450 is opened, and the PTP tablet sheet 900 is dropped into the secondary bucket 480. Next, the bottom shutter 470 of the secondary bucket 480 is opened, and the PTP tablet sheet 900 is dropped onto the transport conveyor unit 800.

  The cutting unit 700 includes a vertical blade and a horizontal blade (not shown) for punching out the fraction of the PTP tablet sheet 900. Even when it is necessary to punch out the PTP tablet sheet 900, as described above, the pressing member 543 of the tablet cassette 500 is pressed by the chuck 430 of the chucking unit 400 and the pushing member 546 is directed forward by the link mechanism 550. Move to.

  By pushing the rear end of the PTP tablet sheet 900 loaded on the lowermost side of the tablet cassette 500 with the moved pushing member 546, the PTP tablet sheet 900 is cued. The chucked PTP tablet sheet 900 is chucked by the chuck 430 and pulled forward, and this time, the pulled PTP tablet sheet 900 is transported to the cutting unit 700 while being chucked. Then, the PTP tablet sheet 900 is punched by using the vertical blade and the horizontal blade, and the PTP tablet sheet 900 corresponding to the punched fraction is dropped directly onto the transport conveyor unit 800.

  The remaining part of the PTP tablet sheet 900 that has been punched out is returned to the original tablet cassette 500 while being chucked by the chuck 430. In this case, the remaining part of the PTP tablet sheet 900 is the tongue of the cassette base 510. It is inserted and stored in the remaining storage section 515a below the pieces 515, 515 in a cueing state.

  The remaining portion of the PTP tablet sheet 900 stored in the remaining storage portion 515a is then chucked by the chuck 430 with the remaining portion of the PTP tablet sheet 900 and pulled forward, and is formed by the line sensor 460. Check. Then, when it is not necessary to punch out the remaining part of the PTP tablet sheet 900, the chucking by the chuck 430 is released in order to drop the remaining part of the PTP tablet sheet 900 into the primary bucket 450. The primary bucket 450 is moved onto the secondary bucket 480 using the X carriage 300 and the Y carriage 200. Then, a bottom shutter (not shown) of the primary bucket 450 is opened, and the PTP tablet sheet 900 is dropped into the secondary bucket 480. Next, the bottom shutter 470 of the secondary bucket 480 is opened, and the PTP tablet sheet 900 is dropped onto the transport conveyor unit 800.

  On the other hand, even when it is necessary to punch the remaining fraction of the remaining portion of the PTP tablet sheet 900, as described above, the chuck 430 can cue it from the remaining portion storage portion 515a under the tongue pieces 515 and 515 of the cassette base 510. The remaining portion of the PTP tablet sheet 900 is chucked and pulled forward. The remaining portion of the pulled PTP tablet sheet 900 is conveyed to the cutting unit 700 while being chucked. Then, the remaining part of the PTP tablet sheet 900 is punched using the vertical blade and the horizontal blade, and the PTP tablet sheet 900 corresponding to the further punched part is dropped directly onto the transport conveyor unit 800.

  On the other hand, the remaining part of the PTP tablet sheet 900 that has been subjected to further blanking is returned to the original tablet cassette 500 while being chucked by the chuck 430. In this case, the remaining part of the PTP tablet sheet 900 is also the cassette base 510. Are inserted and stored in the remaining storage portion 515a below the tongue pieces 515, 515.

  In this way, the PTP tablet sheet 900 loaded on the tablet cassette 500 is dispensed to its fraction without waste.

  The conveyor unit 800 includes a group of rollers 801 and tablet takeout buckets 802 and 802 that are moved in the front-rear and left-right directions by the group of rollers 801. Then, the PTP tablet sheet 900 dropped from the secondary bucket 480 via the shutter 470 or its remaining part 980 is moved in the front / rear / left / right direction by a roller group 801 and dropped into one of the tablet take-out buckets 802 and 802. It has become so.

  On the other hand, the remaining portion 980 or further remaining portion 980 of the PTP tablet sheet 900 dropped from the cutting unit 700 is similarly moved in the front / rear / left / right directions by the roller group 801 and dropped into one of the tablet takeout buckets 802 and 802. The

  In this manner, the dispensed buckets 802 and 802 accommodate the dispensed PTP tablet sheet 900 or the remainder 980 thereof.

  FIG. 10 is a functional block diagram showing a control system related to inventory management of the dispensing device 1, and FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a schematic operation related to inventory management of the dispensing device 1.

  As shown in FIG. 10, the control system related to inventory management of the dispensing device 1 performs various calculations based on the controller 10 attached to the dispensing device 1, various data from the controller 10, and prescription data input separately. And a control device 20 for performing the above.

  The controller 10 includes a sheet number capturing unit 26 for capturing the PTP tablet sheet number data of each tablet cassette 500, 500,... Detected by the counter 431 by the scanning operation before the dispensing of the chucking unit 400. A first operation command unit 31 that outputs a command signal for controlling the scanning operation before dispensing of the chucking unit 400 to the chucking unit 400, and controls the chucking operation of the chucking unit 400 during dispensing. And a second operation command unit 32 that outputs a command signal to the chucking unit.

  The control device 20 is configured by a general-purpose or dedicated computer that is arranged close to the dispensing device 1, and includes a ROM 21, a RAM 22, a display unit 23, an input unit 24, a CPU 25, and a storage unit 30. . The ROM 21 stores a control program of the dispensing device 1 and various preset data, and the RAM 22 temporarily stores data. The display unit 23 is composed of an LCD or the like, and displays various messages to the user. The input unit 24 is for inputting various instructions and prescription data of the user.

  The CPU 25 controls the overall operation of the dispensing apparatus 1 via the controller 10 in accordance with a control program stored in advance in the ROM 21, and stores in the storage unit 30 in advance as a database relating to the sheet number data and medicine information. Based on the stored packaging unit data, it functions as a means for creating inventory management data (corresponding to actual inventory information) for inventory management. The inventory management data is used to calculate operation data for operating the chucking unit 400 during dispensing together with the prescription data.

  The storage unit 30 stores all of the created inventory management data and the like via the CPU 25. The storage unit 30 may be provided outside the control device 20 or on the controller 10 side.

  Hereinafter, a scanning operation related to inventory management of the dispensing device 1 will be described with reference to FIG. Now, it is assumed that the chucking unit 400 is in a standby state, for example, on the lower left side (home position) in FIG. In such an initial state, in FIG. 11, for example, when power is turned on first in the morning, first, initial setting such as setting of a default value in the RAM 54 is performed (step S1). Then, it is assumed that the user selects a scanning operation with the input unit 24 (step S2). In this case, the scanning operation of each tablet cassette 500, 500,... Is started according to a preset program (step S3).

  For example, each tablet cassette 500, 500,... Fixed on the uppermost shelf 602 of the cassette shelf 600 is scanned from the left to the right from the home position, and conversely from the right in the lower stage. Scan to the left. Then, the scanning is finished on the left or right side of the lowermost stage, and the chucking unit 400 returns to the home position.

  During this scanning operation, (1) when a reflective laser type distance sensor 431a is used as the counter 431, an opening 531a formed on the front surface of the tablet cassette 500 from the reflective laser type distance sensor 431a. The light is projected and distance data included in the reflected light is detected (step S4). Then, the sheet number fetching unit 26 calculates the sheet number data of each tablet cassette 500, 500,... Based on the distance data, and fetches the calculated sheet number data (step S5).

  (2) When the captured image recognition device 431b is used as the counter 431, the captured image data of the imaging unit of the captured image recognition device 431b is detected (step S4). Next, the sheet number acquisition unit 26 calculates the sheet number data of each tablet cassette 500, 500,... Based on the binarized image of the captured image, and acquires the calculated sheet number data (step S5). .

  (3) When the contact sensor 431c is used as the counter 431, the height data of the uppermost PTP tablet sheet 900 in the tablet cassette 500 is detected by the contact sensor 431c (step S4). Subsequently, the sheet number fetching unit 26 calculates the sheet number data of each tablet cassette 500, 500,... Based on the height data, and fetches the calculated sheet number data (step S5).

  Next, inventory management data is created by the CPU 25 based on the sheet number data and packaging unit data stored in advance in the storage unit 30 as a database relating to medicine information (step S6), and the inventory management data is stored in the storage. Store in the unit 30 (step S7). Then, the scanning operation before dispensing of the chucking unit 400 is ended (step S8).

  Then, it returns to step S2, and since it is not a scanning operation this time (NO in step S2), the chucking operation at the time of dispensing of the chucking unit 400 is started (step S9). Since this operation is the normal dispensing operation described in each of the above components, the description thereof is omitted.

  According to the first embodiment, the opening 531a is provided in the front wall 531 of the tablet cassette 500, and the counter 431 is disposed so as to face the opening 531a of the tablet cassette 500, and the PTP tablet sheet 900 viewed from the opening 531a. Therefore, the number of PTP tablet sheets 900 loaded in the tablet cassette 500 can be automatically counted. Therefore, even if the PTP tablet sheet 900 is frequently replenished or taken out from the tablet cassette 500, the number of the PTP tablet sheets 900 can be reliably grasped following that. Furthermore, more reliable inventory management is performed using the automatically counted number of PTP tablet sheets 900 and packaging unit data stored in advance in the storage unit 30 as a database relating to drug information. Will be able to.

  Further, according to the first embodiment, the counter 431 is mounted on the chucking unit 400 that takes out the PTP tablet sheet 900 from the tablet cassette 500, and the opening 531 a of the tablet cassette 500 is opened by the chucking unit 400. For example, the reflection type laser distance sensor 431a as the counter 431 detects the received light by scanning, so that the PTP tablet sheets 900 and 900 loaded in the tablet cassette 500 each time the scanning is performed. , ... can be automatically counted. Therefore, even if PTP tablet sheets 900, 900,... Are frequently replenished or taken out into the tablet cassette 500, as long as the timing for performing the scan is set appropriately, Following this, the number of PTP tablet sheets 900, 900,.

(Embodiment 2)
In the counting method of the first embodiment, the number of PTP tablet sheets 900, 900, 900,... In the tablet cassette 500 is counted using the reflective laser distance sensor 431a as the counter 431. In this case, it is necessary to detect the received light of all the PTP tablet sheets 900, 900, 900,... From the lowest position loaded on the tablet cassette 500 to the highest position. It may take too much time to count the number of PTP tablet sheets 900, 900, 900,. In particular, in the scanning operation, the scanning speed at which the sheet height which is the maximum height per sheet of the PTP tablet sheets 900, 900, 900,. Since it is decelerated, it may take more time to complete the scanning of all tablet cassettes 500. The second embodiment improves this point and will be described in detail below.

  12 is a perspective view of the tablet cassette 500 according to Embodiment 2 as viewed from the side facing the chucking unit 400. FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a PTP tablet sheet in the tablet cassette using a reflective laser distance sensor as a counter. It is explanatory drawing which shows a mode that a sheet number is counted, (a) is a front view, (b) is AA sectional drawing of (a). In the second embodiment, elements that are the same as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant description thereof is omitted.

  In the tablet cassette 500 of the second embodiment, as shown in FIG. 12, sheet height data indicating the maximum height of one PTP tablet sheet 900, 900, 900,... IC tag (corresponding to a memory) 536 is stored. The sheet height data stored in the IC tag 536 can be read by a reader (corresponding to a reading unit) 432 mounted on the chucking unit 400, and the counter 431 can read the sheet height data. The number of PTP tablet sheets 900, 900, 900,... Viewed from the opening 531a of the tablet cassette 500 can be counted without contact.

  The counter 431 is a reflective laser type distance sensor (corresponding to an optical sensor) 431a, and in this case, the main body upper portion 530 of the tablet cassette 500 has, as shown in FIGS. On the bottom plate 534, a plurality of PTP tablet sheets 900, 900,... Are aligned in the vertical direction by the rod-shaped member 533.

  Then, while moving the chucking unit 400 in the vertical and horizontal directions, the reader 432 reads the sheet height data stored in the IC tag 536, and the PTP on the tablet cassette 500 from the reflective laser type distance sensor 431a. Laser light is projected toward the tablet sheet 900. In this case, the height position (minimum position) data of the PTP tablet sheet 900 included in the reflected light L1 from the sheet body 910 of the PTP tablet sheet 900 and the height of the PTP tablet sheet 900 included in the reflected light L2. Position (maximum position) data is to be detected. Each height position data included in the reflected lights L1 and L2 can be easily detected by the same principle as described in the reflective laser type distance sensor 431a of the first embodiment.

  Then, by subtracting the Y coordinate value of the lowest position data of the PTP tablet sheet 900 from the Y coordinate value of the highest position data of the PTP tablet sheet 900, and dividing the difference by the specific value of the sheet height data, the tablet cassette The number of PTP tablet sheets 900 in 500 can be detected (function as a fourth counting means).

  FIG. 14 is a functional block diagram showing a control system related to inventory management of the dispensing device 1 according to the second embodiment, and FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing a schematic operation related to inventory management of the dispensing device 1.

  As shown in FIG. 14, the control system for inventory management of the dispensing device 1 performs various calculations based on the controller 10 attached to the dispensing device 1, various data from the controller 10, and prescription data input separately. And a control device 20 for performing the above.

  The controller 10 detects the minimum and maximum position data of the PTP tablet sheets 900, 900,... Of each tablet cassette 500, 500,... Detected by the counter 431 by the scanning operation before dispensing of the chucking unit 400. And the sheet height data of the PTP tablet sheets 900, 900,... Read by the reader 432, the PTP tablet sheets 900, 900,. A sheet number capturing section 26 for capturing the number of sheets, a first operation command section 31 for outputting a command signal for controlling the scan operation before dispensing of the chucking unit 400 to the chucking unit 400, A command signal for controlling the chucking operation at the time of dispensing of the chucking unit 400 is transmitted to the chucking unit 400. And a second operation command unit 32 that outputs King unit.

  The control device 20 is configured by a general-purpose or dedicated computer arranged close to the dispensing device 1 as in the first embodiment, and includes a ROM 21, a RAM 22, a display unit 23, an input unit 24, a CPU 25, And a storage unit 30.

  Hereinafter, a scanning operation related to inventory management of the dispensing device 1 according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. Now, it is assumed that the chucking unit 400 is in a standby state, for example, on the lower left side (home position) in FIG. In this initial state, when the power is turned on, for example, in the morning in FIG. 15, first, initial setting such as setting a default value in the RAM 54 is performed (step S1). Then, it is assumed that the user selects a scanning operation with the input unit 24 (step S2). In this case, the scanning operation of each tablet cassette 500, 500,... Is started according to a preset program (step S3).

  For example, each tablet cassette 500, 500,... Fixed on the uppermost shelf 602 of the cassette shelf 600 is scanned from the left to the right from the home position, and conversely from the right in the lower stage. Scan to the left. Then, the scanning is finished on the left or right side of the lowermost stage, and the chucking unit 400 returns to the home position.

  During this scanning operation, the reader 432 reads the sheet height data of the PTP tablet sheets 900, 900,... Stored in the IC tag 536 attached to the front surface of the tablet cassette 500 (step S4a). Next, the minimum and maximum position data of the PTP tablet sheets 900, 900,... Are detected by the reflective laser type distance sensor 431a as the counter 431 (step S4b). Then, the sheet number capturing unit 26 reads the sheet height data of the PTP tablet sheets 900, 900,... Read by the reader 432 and the lowest of the PTP tablet sheets 900, 900,. The number of sheets in the tablet cassette 500 is calculated based on the maximum position data and the calculated sheet number data is taken in (step S5).

  Next, inventory management data is created by the CPU 25 based on the sheet number data and packaging unit data stored in advance in the storage unit 30 as a database relating to medicine information (step S6), and the inventory management data is stored in the storage. Store in the unit 30 (step S7). Then, the scanning operation before dispensing of the chucking unit 400 is ended (step S8).

  Then, it returns to step S2, and since it is not a scanning operation this time (NO in step S2), the chucking operation at the time of dispensing of the chucking unit 400 is started (step S9). Since this operation is the normal dispensing operation described in each of the above components, the description thereof is omitted.

  According to the second embodiment, the IC tag 536 for storing sheet height data indicating the maximum height of one PTP tablet sheet 900, 900,... Stacked in the tablet cassette 500, and the IC tag And a reader 432 for reading the sheet height data stored in 536, and as the counter 431, light is projected to the leading end of the PTP tablet sheets 900, 900,... Viewed from the opening 531a of the tablet cassette 500. The PTP tablet sheets 900, 900 are based on a reflective laser type distance sensor 431 a that receives the reflected light, the minimum and maximum position data of the received light, and the sheet height data read by the reader 432. ,... Are provided in the tablet cassette 500. When detecting the number of PTP tablet sheets 900, 900,... Loaded in the tablet cassette 500, only the received light is detected for the lowest and highest PTP tablet sheets 900, 900,. Time is reduced. Therefore, suppose that the sheet height, which is the maximum height of each PTP tablet sheet 900, 900,... Loaded in the tablet cassette 500, has been reduced to the scan speed at which the lowest chemical can be detected. However, the time until the scanning of all the tablet cassettes 500 is completed is surely shortened.

  Further, according to the second embodiment, the counter 431 and the reader 432 are mounted on the chucking unit 400 that takes out the PTP tablet sheets 900, 900,... By scanning the opening 531a and its vicinity of the tablet cassette 500, the counter 431 detects the received light, and the reader 432 reads the sheet height data stored in the IC tag 536. Therefore, each time the scan is performed, the detection of the received light and the reading of the sheet height data are performed almost simultaneously, and the number of PTP tablet sheets 900, 900,. Can count. Therefore, even if PTP tablet sheets 900, 900,... Are frequently replenished or taken out into the tablet cassette 500, as long as the timing for performing the scan is set appropriately, Following this, the number of PTP tablet sheets 900, 900,. At this time, the sheet height, which is the maximum height per PTP tablet sheet 900, 900,... Loaded in the tablet cassette 500, has been reduced to the scan speed at which the lowest chemical can be detected. However, it is possible to reliably reduce the time until the scanning of all the tablet cassettes 500, 500,.

  In the second embodiment, the fourth counting means uses the minimum and maximum position data of the PTP tablet sheets 900, 900,... Contained in the received light, and the PTP tablet sheets 900, 900,. .. When the set value of the height position data of the bottom plate 534 of the main body upper portion 530 is used instead of the lowest position data, the PTP tablet is detected only by detecting the highest position data. The number of sheets 900, 900,... Can be counted. In this case, the time can be shortened by the time for detecting the lowest position data. However, more accurate counting of the PTP tablet sheets 900, 900,... Is guaranteed when the lowest and highest position data are used.

(Embodiment 3)
In addition, when a reflective laser type distance sensor 431a is used as the counter 431, the material, color, and surface of the sheet end surface that is a minute spot on which light from the reflective laser type distance sensor 431a is incident due to the characteristics of the sensor. A count error may occur in the PTP tablet sheets 900, 900,... Due to the influence of roughness error, the end face of the sheet after filling, and the incident angle of the light. The third embodiment improves this point and will be described in detail below.

  16 is a perspective view of the tablet cassette 500 according to the third embodiment as viewed from the side facing the chucking unit 400, FIG. 17 is a perspective view showing the structure of the presser plate 537, and FIG. 18 is a reflective laser distance as a counter. It is explanatory drawing which shows a mode that the number of PTP tablet sheets in a tablet cassette is counted using a sensor, (a) is a front view, (b) is AA sectional drawing of (a). In the third embodiment, elements common to the first and second embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant description thereof is omitted.

  In the third embodiment, as shown in FIG. 16, an IC that stores sheet height data indicating the maximum height of one PTP tablet sheet 900, 900, 900,. A tag (corresponding to a memory) 536 is attached. The sheet height data stored in the IC tag 536 can be read by a reader (corresponding to a reading unit) 432 mounted on the chucking unit 400, and the counter 431 can read the sheet height data. The number of PTP tablet sheets 900, 900, 900,... Can be counted in a non-contact manner from the height position data of a pressing plate (corresponding to a reflector) 537 viewed from the opening 531a of the tablet cassette 500. Yes.

  The counter 431 is a reflective laser type distance sensor (corresponding to an optical sensor) 431a. In this case, the main body 530 of the tablet cassette 500 has a main body 530 as shown in FIGS. 18 (a) and 18 (b). On the bottom plate 534, a plurality of PTP tablet sheets 900, 900,... Are aligned in the vertical direction by the rod-shaped member 533.

  As shown in FIGS. 16 and 17, the pressing plate 537 is mounted so as to be able to follow the dropping operation of the tablet sheet 900 at the highest position by being sequentially taken out from the lowest PTP tablet sheet 900 in the tablet cassette 500. Since the mirror seal 538 is attached to the side facing the opening 531a of the tablet cassette 500, the light incident from the reflective laser type distance sensor 431a is reliably reflected by the holding plate 537. As a result, the count of the number of stable PTP tablet sheets 900, 900,... Is guaranteed at all times.

  Then, while moving the chucking unit 400 in the vertical and horizontal directions, the reader 432 reads the sheet height data stored in the IC tag 536, and the press on the tablet cassette 500 from the reflective laser type distance sensor 431a. Laser light is projected toward the mirror seal 538 of the plate 537. In this case, the height position of the mirror seal 538 included in the reflected light L is detected. The height position of the mirror seal 538 can be easily detected by the same principle as described in the reflection type laser distance sensor 431a of the first embodiment.

  Accordingly, the set value of the height position data of the bottom plate 534 of the main body upper portion 530 and the height dimension of the mirror seal 538 of the holding plate 537 are subtracted from the Y coordinate value of the height position data of the mirror seal 538 included in the reflected light L. The total height of each PTP tablet sheet 900, 900,... Loaded in the tablet cassette 500 is calculated, and the calculated total height of each PTP tablet sheet 900, 900,. , The number of PTP tablet sheets 900, 900,... In the tablet cassette 500 can be detected (function as a fifth counting means).

  Here, the functional block diagram showing the control system related to the inventory management of the dispensing device 1 according to the third embodiment and the flowchart showing the schematic operation related to the inventory management of the dispensing device 1 relate to the second embodiment. 14 and 15 will be used again, and the differences will be sequentially described below.

  As shown in FIG. 14, the control system related to the inventory management of the dispensing device 1 is based on the controller 10 attached to the dispensing device 1, various data from the controller 10, and prescription data inputted separately. And a control device 20 that performs calculations and the like.

  The controller 10 moves the holding plate 537 placed on the uppermost PTP tablet sheet of each tablet cassette 500, 500,... Detected by the counter 431 by the scanning operation before the dispensing of the chucking unit 400. Based on the height position data of the mirror seal 538 and the sheet height data of the PTP tablet sheet read by the reader 432, a sheet for taking in the number of PTP tablet sheets of each tablet cassette 500, 500,. The number-of-sheets capturing unit 26, a first operation command unit 31 that outputs a command signal for controlling the scanning operation before dispensing of the chucking unit 400 to the chucking unit 400, and when the chucking unit 400 dispenses Command signal to control the chucking operation of the unit is output to the chucking unit And a second operation command unit 32 that.

  As in the first and second embodiments, the control device 20 is configured by a general-purpose or dedicated computer that is disposed close to the dispensing device 1. The ROM 21, the RAM 22, the display unit 23, the input unit 24, and the CPU 25. And a storage unit 30.

  Hereinafter, a scanning operation related to inventory management of the dispensing device 1 will be described with reference to FIG. Now, it is assumed that the chucking unit 400 is in a standby state, for example, on the lower left side (home position) in FIG. In this initial state, when the power is turned on, for example, in the morning in FIG. 15, first, initial setting such as setting a default value in the RAM 54 is performed (step S1). Then, it is assumed that the user selects a scanning operation with the input unit 24 (step S2). In this case, the scanning operation of each tablet cassette 500, 500,... Is started according to a preset program (step S3).

  For example, each tablet cassette 500, 500,... Fixed on the uppermost shelf 602 of the cassette shelf 600 is scanned from the left to the right from the home position, and conversely from the right in the lower stage. Scan to the left. Then, the scanning is finished on the left or right side of the lowermost stage, and the chucking unit 400 returns to the home position.

  During this scanning operation, the sheet height data of the PTP tablet sheets 900, 900,... Stored in the IC tag 536 attached to the front surface of the tablet cassette 500 is read by the reader 432 (step S4a). Subsequently, the height position data of the mirror seal 538 of the presser plate 537 is detected by the reflective laser type distance sensor 431a as the counter 431 (step S4b). Next, the sheet number capturing unit 26 reads the sheet height data of the PTP tablet sheets 900, 900,... Read by the reader 432 and the height position data of the mirror seal 538 of the presser plate 537 detected by the counter 431. Based on the above, the number of sheets in the tablet cassette 500 is calculated, and the calculated sheet number data is captured (step S5).

  Next, inventory management data is created by the CPU 25 based on the sheet number data and packaging unit data stored in advance in the storage unit 30 as a database relating to medicine information (step S6), and the inventory management data is stored in the storage. Store in the unit 30 (step S7). Then, the scanning operation before dispensing of the chucking unit 400 is ended (step S8).

  Then, it returns to step S2, and since it is not a scanning operation this time (NO in step S2), the chucking operation at the time of dispensing of the chucking unit 400 is started (step S9). Since this operation is the normal dispensing operation described in each of the above components, the description thereof is omitted.

  According to the third embodiment, the IC tag 536 for storing sheet height data indicating the maximum height of one PTP tablet sheet 900, 900,... Stacked in the tablet cassette 500, and the IC tag A reader 432 for reading the sheet height data stored in 536, and a presser plate 537 placed on the PTP tablet sheet 900 at the highest position stacked in the tablet cassette 500. As the counter 431, A reflection-type laser distance sensor 431a that projects light onto the holding plate 537 that is viewed from the opening 531a of the tablet cassette 500 and receives the reflected light; and height position data of the mirror seal 538 included in the received light; Based on the sheet height data read by the reader 432, PTP tablet sheets 900, 900,... Since a number of sheets capture unit 26 that counts, regardless of the state of the sheet end surface, PTP tablet sheets 900, 900 always stable, so that the count of the number of ... is guaranteed. Further, only the light received by the press plate 537 loaded on the tablet cassette 500 is detected, and the time for counting the number of PTP tablet sheets 900, 900,. Shortened to Therefore, suppose that the sheet height, which is the maximum height of each PTP tablet sheet 900, 900,... Loaded in the tablet cassette 500, has been reduced to the scan speed at which the lowest chemical can be detected. However, the time until scanning of all the tablet cassettes 500, 500,... Is completed is surely shortened.

  Further, according to the third embodiment, as in the second embodiment, the counter 431 and the reader 432 are mounted on the chucking unit 400 that takes out the PTP tablet sheets 900, 900,... From the tablet cassette 500. The chucking unit 400 scans the opening 531a of the tablet cassette 500 and the vicinity thereof, thereby detecting the received light by the counter 431 and the sheet height stored in the IC tag 536 by the reader 432. As described in the second embodiment, the number of PTP tablet sheets 900, 900,... Can be reliably grasped, and all tablet cassettes 500, 500,. ..Can reliably reduce the time to complete the scan So as to.

  In the first to third embodiments, two cassette shelves 600 and 600 are arranged on the left and right. However, the cassette shelves 600 and 600 may be arranged on the front and rear sides, and one or three or more cassette shelves are arranged. It is good as well. In that case, it is preferable from the viewpoint of work efficiency that the number of carriages, chucking units, cutting units, and the like correspond to this.

  In the first embodiment, the reflection type laser distance sensor 431a, the captured image recognition device 431b, and the contact type sensor 431c will be described as the counter 431. In the second and third embodiments, the counter 431 is the reflection type. Although only the laser type distance sensor 431a has been described, other contact type or non-contact type counters may be used.

  In the first to third embodiments, the PTP tablet cassettes 500, 500,... Are arranged on the shelf plate 602 of the cassette shelf 600 in the width direction of the PTP tablet cassettes 500, 500,. However, the shelf plate is not limited to a stationary flat plate shape, and may be, for example, a cylindrical shape rotating around a predetermined axis. In that case, the chucking unit 400 (or the counter 431 mounted on the chucking unit 400) is moved relative to the PTP tablet cassettes 500, 500,... Mounted on the rotating shelf. Is enough.

It is a disassembled perspective view which shows the main components of the dispensing apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is the perspective view seen from the side which faces the chucking unit of a tablet cassette. It is a disassembled perspective view of a tablet cassette. It is a sectional side view which shows the state before the sheet | seat cueing of a tablet cassette. It is a sectional side view which shows the state at the time of the sheet | seat search of a tablet cassette. It is a perspective view which shows the specific structure of the main body lower part of a cassette main body. It is a sectional side view which shows a mode that the number of the sheets of PTP tablet sheets in a tablet cassette is counted using a reflection type laser type distance sensor as a counter. It is a sectional side view which shows a mode that the number of PTP tablet sheets in a tablet cassette is counted using a captured image recognition apparatus as a counter. It is a sectional side view which shows a mode that the number of PTP tablet sheets in a tablet cassette is counted using a contact-type sensor as a counter. It is a functional block diagram which shows the control system which concerns on the inventory management of this dispensing apparatus. It is a flowchart which shows schematic operation | movement which concerns on the inventory management of this dispensing apparatus. It is the perspective view seen from the side which opposes the chucking unit of the tablet cassette which concerns on Embodiment 2. FIG. It is explanatory drawing which shows a mode that the number of the sheets of PTP tablet sheets in a tablet cassette is counted using a reflection type laser type distance sensor as a counter, (a) is a front view, (b) is A of (a). It is -A sectional drawing. It is a functional block diagram which shows the control system which concerns on the inventory management of the dispensing apparatus 1 which concerns on this Embodiment 2. FIG. It is a flowchart which shows schematic operation | movement which concerns on the inventory management of the dispensing apparatus 1 which concerns on this Embodiment 2. FIG. It is the perspective view seen from the side which opposes the chucking unit of the tablet cassette which concerns on Embodiment 3. FIG. It is a perspective view which shows the structure of a pressing plate. It is explanatory drawing which shows a mode that the number of the sheets of PTP tablet sheets in a tablet cassette is counted using a reflection type laser type distance sensor as a counter, (a) is a front view, (b) is A of (a). It is -A sectional drawing.

Explanation of symbols

1 Dispensing device 10 Controller 20 Control device 25 CPU
26 Sheet number fetching section (corresponding to first, second, third, fourth and fifth counting means)
30 Storage Unit 100 Device Main Body 200 Y Carriage 300 X Carriage 400 Chucking Unit (corresponding to a chucking mechanism)
431 Counter 431a Reflective laser type distance sensor (corresponds to an optical sensor)
431b Captured image recognition device (including imaging means)
431c Contact sensor (corresponds to a height sensor)
432 Reader (corresponds to reading means)
500 Tablet cassette 530 Main body upper part 531 Front wall 531a Opening part 533 Bar-shaped member 534 Bottom plate 535 Notch part 536 IC tag (corresponds to memory)
537 Presser plate (corresponding to a reflector)
538 Mirror seal 600 Cassette shelf 700 Cutting unit 800 Transport conveyor unit 900 PTP tablet sheet (corresponds to tablet sheet)
910 Sheet body 920 Tablet

Claims (12)

A dispensing device counting device comprising a counter for counting the number of tablet sheets loaded in a tablet cassette,
While providing an opening on one side of the tablet cassette,
The counter is
A counting device for a dispensing device, wherein the counting device is arranged so as to face the opening of the tablet cassette and counts the number of tablet sheets viewed from the opening. As the counter,
An optical sensor that projects light onto the tip of the tablet sheet as seen through the opening of the tablet cassette and receives the reflected light;
The first counting means for counting the number of the tablet sheets based on distance information from the optical sensor included in the received light to the tip of the tablet sheet. Dispensing device counting device. The optical sensor is mounted on a chucking mechanism for taking out a tablet sheet from the tablet cassette,
The counting device of the dispensing device according to claim 2, wherein the received light is detected by the optical sensor by scanning the opening of the tablet cassette with the chucking mechanism. As the counter,
Imaging means for imaging a tablet sheet viewed through an opening of the tablet cassette;
The counting device for a dispensing device according to claim 1, further comprising second counting means for counting the number of the tablet sheets based on the captured image.   5. The dispensing device counting device according to claim 2, wherein a predetermined amount of a top surface and a bottom surface on the side facing the opening of the tablet cassette is cut out. As the counter,
A height sensor for detecting the highest position of the tablet sheet in contact with the tablet sheet viewed from the opening of the cassette;
2. A counting device for a dispensing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a third counting means for counting the number of the tablet sheets based on the highest position of the tablet sheets. A memory for storing sheet height information indicating the maximum height per tablet sheet loaded in the tablet cassette, and a reading means for reading the sheet height information stored in the memory;
As the counter,
An optical sensor that projects light onto the tip of the tablet sheet as seen through the opening of the tablet cassette and receives the reflected light;
And a fourth counting means for counting the number of tablet sheets based on the highest position information of the tablet sheet contained in the received light and the sheet height information read by the reading means. A dispensing device counting device according to claim 1.   The counting device for a dispensing device according to claim 7, wherein the fourth counting means further counts the number of the tablet sheets using the minimum position information of the tablet sheets included in the received light. The tablet includes a memory for storing sheet height information indicating the maximum height per tablet sheet loaded in the tablet cassette, and reading means for reading the sheet height information stored in the memory. Place the reflector on the highest tablet sheet loaded in the cassette,
As the counter,
An optical sensor that projects light onto a reflector viewed through the opening of the tablet cassette and receives the reflected light;
5. A fifth counting means for counting the number of tablet sheets based on the height position information of the received light and the sheet height information read by the reading means. The counting device of the dispensing device described.   In the tablet cassette, the reflector is placed so as to be able to follow the dropping operation of the tablet sheet at the highest position by being sequentially taken out from the tablet sheet at the lowest position, and on the side facing the opening of the tablet cassette. 10. The counting device for a dispensing device according to claim 9, wherein the pressing plate is provided with a mirror seal. The memory is an IC tag attached near the opening of the tablet cassette;
The reading means is a reader for reading sheet height information stored in the IC tag,
The optical sensor and the reader are mounted on a chucking mechanism for taking out a tablet sheet from the tablet cassette,
By scanning the opening and its vicinity of the tablet cassette with the chucking mechanism, the received light is detected by the optical sensor, and the sheet height stored in the IC tag is read by the reader The dispensing device counting device according to any one of claims 7 to 10, wherein the counting device is a dispensing device.   The number of tablet sheets counted using the counting device of the dispensing device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, and packaging unit data stored in advance in a storage unit as a database relating to drug information Based on the above, the inventory management device of the dispensing device is characterized in that actual inventory information of the tablet sheet is created and inventory management is performed based on the actual inventory information.

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