JP2020193841A - Inspection device, packaging sheet manufacturing device, and packaging sheet manufacturing method - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide an inspection device and the like capable of suppressing reduction in inspection efficiency and more reliably ensuring consistency in inspection quality.SOLUTION: While X-rays capable of passing through a PTP film 9 are applied, an X-ray line sensor 52a acquires an X-ray transmission image on the basis of the X-rays that have passed through the PTP film 9, and an inspection is carried out on the basis of the X-ray transmission image. The PTP film 9 is bent so as to protrude in the opposite direction from an X-ray irradiation source and the X-ray transmission image is acquired in a state where the PTP film 9 is kept in a bent shape. The X-ray line sensor 52a is made to have a bent shape following the shape of the PTP film 9. As a result, it is possible to, for example, suppress variation in intensity of electromagnetic waves applied onto each position of the PTP film 9. Consequently, the X-ray transmission image quality at each position becomes more consistent.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 8

Description

The present invention relates to an apparatus and a method used for producing a packaging sheet containing contents.

Conventionally, PTP (Press Through Package) sheets are widely used as packaging sheets for packaging contents such as tablets in various fields such as pharmaceuticals and food products.

The PTP sheet includes a container film in which a pocket portion for accommodating the contents is formed, and a cover film attached so as to seal the opening side of the pocket portion with respect to the container film, and the pocket portion is outside. It is configured so that the contents can be taken out by pressing from the surface and breaking through the cover film serving as a lid by the contents contained therein.

Such a PTP sheet is used in a pocket forming step of forming a pocket portion with respect to a strip-shaped container film, a filling step of filling the pocket portion with contents, and a container film so as to seal the opening side of the pocket portion. A strip-shaped cover film is attached to the flange portion formed around the pocket portion of the above, and the PTP film is manufactured. The final product, the PTP sheet, is separated from the PTP film. Will be done. Usually, the PTP film is formed with a plurality of rows of pockets for filling the contents, which are arranged along the longitudinal direction of the PTP film, along the width direction of the PTP film.

Generally, when a PTP sheet is manufactured, an abnormality in the contents (for example, in the pocket portion) in the manufacturing process (a post-process in which the contents are housed in the pocket portion and a pre-process in which the PTP sheet is separated from the PTP film) is performed. Inspections for the presence or absence of contents, damage such as cracks and chips, and inspections for abnormalities in the flange (for example, the presence or absence of foreign matter in the flange) are performed.

In recent years, from the viewpoint of improving light-shielding property and moisture-proof property, both the container film and the cover film are often formed of an opaque material based on aluminum or the like.

In such a case, the above-mentioned various inspections will be performed using an X-ray inspection apparatus or the like. Generally, an X-ray inspection apparatus includes an X-ray generator (X-ray source) that irradiates a continuously conveyed PTP film with X-rays, and an X-ray detector that detects X-rays that have passed through the PTP film. Various inspections are performed based on the amount of X-ray transmission. Further, as an inspection method, an X-ray image corresponding to the X-ray transmitted through the PTP film is acquired, and the same image processing algorithm is applied to the X-ray image for each row of contents (pocket portion). There is known a method of determining the quality of a content based on an X-ray image to which the algorithm is applied, using a threshold set for each column of the content (see, for example, Patent Document 1 and the like). In this method, simply put, X-rays are emitted in a fan shape (radial) from an X-ray generator (X-ray source), and X-rays are emitted between the contents of one row and the contents of another row. Since the angles to be formed are different, the problem is that the area value and the volume value in the X-ray image differ between the contents of each row, and in order to solve this problem, it is convenient for each row of contents. It's like setting a threshold.

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2013-253832

However, in the above inspection method, it is necessary to set a threshold value for each row of contents, and it takes a lot of time and effort to set the threshold value. For example, in a PTP film having 10 rows of contents, it becomes necessary to set at least 10 thresholds for inspection.

Further, if the threshold values are different in each column, a situation may occur in which the contents determined to be defective in one column are determined to be non-defective in another column. Further, when inspecting the flange portion located between the rows of the contents, there may be a problem that the determination result fluctuates depending on which row threshold is selected. That is, the inspection result may fluctuate due to the difference in the position on the PTP film, and it may be difficult to maintain the uniformity of the inspection quality.

It should be noted that the above problem can occur not only in PTP packaging but also in other packaging fields such as SP (Strip Package) packaging for packaging contents such as tablets. In addition to X-rays, it can also occur when other electromagnetic waves that pass through the packaging sheet, such as terahertz electromagnetic waves, are used.

The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object of the present invention is an inspection apparatus, a packaging sheet manufacturing apparatus, and an inspection apparatus capable of suppressing a decrease in inspection efficiency and more reliably ensuring uniformity of inspection quality. The purpose is to provide a method for manufacturing a packaging sheet.

Hereinafter, each means suitable for solving the above object will be described in terms of terms. In addition, the action and effect peculiar to the corresponding means will be added as necessary.

Means 1. A strip-shaped first film made of an opaque material and a strip-shaped second film made of an opaque material are attached, and a strip-shaped packaging film in which the contents are housed in a storage space formed between the two films. Is an inspection device used to obtain a packaging sheet by cutting the packaging film.
An electromagnetic wave irradiation means having an irradiation source that irradiates the transported packaging film with an electromagnetic wave that can transmit the packaging film from the first film side.
It is arranged on the second film side so as to face the electromagnetic wave irradiating means with the packaging film sandwiched therein, and has a detection unit capable of detecting electromagnetic waves transmitted through the packaging film, and the electromagnetic waves transmitted through the packaging film can be detected. An imaging means for acquiring an electromagnetic wave transmission image based on the
Based on the electromagnetic wave transmission image acquired by the imaging means, the packaging sheet is provided with an image processing means capable of performing an inspection related to the packaging sheet, and is provided.
A deforming means that is arranged upstream of the electromagnetic wave irradiation means along the transport path of the packaging film and that bends the packaging film so as to be convex toward the side opposite to the irradiation source of the electromagnetic wave irradiation means. ,
A deformed state that is arranged downstream of the electromagnetic wave irradiating means along the transport path and can maintain the shape of the packaging film curved by the deforming means at least at a position where electromagnetic waves are radiated from the electromagnetic wave irradiating means. Has maintenance means and
The detection unit of the imaging means is an inspection device having a curved shape along the curved shape of the packaging film.

The same applies to the following means, but the "packaging sheet" includes, for example, a "PTP sheet" and an "SP sheet". Further, the above-mentioned "inspection related to the packaging sheet" includes, for example, "inspection of the contents" such as presence / absence or damage of the contents in the accommodation space, and flange portions (first film and second film) formed around the accommodation space. "Inspection of flanges" such as the presence or absence of foreign matter in the part where the film is attached) is included. Further, examples of electromagnetic waves include X-rays and terahertz electromagnetic waves.

According to the above means 1, the packaging film is curved so as to be convex toward the side opposite to the electromagnetic wave irradiation means by the deforming means, and the curved shape of the packaging film is maintained by the deformed state maintaining means. The packaging film is irradiated with electromagnetic waves by the electromagnetic wave irradiating means, and an electromagnetic wave transmission image is acquired by the imaging means. Therefore, the difference in the distance from the electromagnetic wave irradiation source to each position of the packaging film can be reduced as compared with the case where the packaging film is inspected in a flat state, and the electromagnetic wave emitted at each position of the packaging film can be reduced. It is possible to suppress the variation in strength. Further, since the electromagnetic wave detection unit in the imaging means has a curved shape that follows the curved shape of the packaging film, the incident angle of the electromagnetic wave that passes through the packaging film and is incident on the detection unit depends on the position of the transmitted packaging film. There is no big difference. Combined with these effects, the obtained electromagnetic wave transmission image becomes more homogeneous at each position. This eliminates the need to set a threshold value for each row of contents when performing an inspection related to the packaging sheet based on the electromagnetic wave transmission image, and it is possible to suppress a decrease in inspection efficiency. In addition, it is possible to more reliably suppress fluctuations in the inspection result due to the difference in position on the packaging film, and it is possible to more reliably ensure the uniformity of inspection quality.

Means 2. The deforming means is characterized in that the packaging film is curved so as to form an arc shape centered on the irradiation source in a cross section that passes through the irradiation source and is orthogonal to the transport direction of the packaging film. The inspection device according to the means 1.

According to the above means 2, the distance from the electromagnetic wave irradiation source to each position of the packaging film can be made substantially constant, and the intensity of the emitted electromagnetic wave can be made substantially equal at each position of the packaging film. it can. Further, the incident angle of the electromagnetic wave transmitted through the packaging film and incident on the detection unit can be made substantially the same regardless of the position of the transmitted packaging film. As a result, the obtained electromagnetic wave transmission image becomes more homogeneous at each position.

Means 3. The inspection apparatus according to means 1 or 2, wherein the inspection apparatus is arranged downstream of the deformed state maintaining means along the transport path and includes a returning means for returning the packaging film to a flat state.

According to the above means 3, the curved packaging film can be returned to a flat state by the returning means. Therefore, various treatments for the packaging film after inspection (for example, processing for cutting the packaging film to obtain a packaging sheet) can be performed more accurately (as intended).

Means 4. The return means includes a straight roller that is rotatable and has a constant outer diameter along the rotation axis direction.
The inspection apparatus according to means 3, wherein the outer peripheral surface of the straight roller is configured to return the packaging film to a flat state when it comes into contact with the packaging film.

A recess for accommodating the pocket portion may be formed on the outer peripheral surface of the straight roller. In this case, if the outer diameter of the virtual cylinder including the outer peripheral surface of the straight roller is constant along the direction of the rotation axis, it can be said that the configuration of the above means 4 is satisfied.

According to the above means 4, the packaging film can be more reliably and easily flattened. Further, it is possible to prevent the structure of the returning means from becoming complicated, and it is possible to simplify and downsize the device.

Means 5. The second film has a protruding shape and has a pocket portion whose internal space forms the accommodation space.
The inspection device according to any one of means 1 to 4, wherein the deforming means bends the packaging film in which the pocket portion protrudes toward the side opposite to the electromagnetic wave irradiating means.

When the packaging film is curved so that the pocket portion is arranged inside the curvature, a force in the direction of compressing the pocket portion is applied to the packaging film at the time of bending. Therefore, the packaging film may not be smoothly curved, or the pocket portion may be crushed and deformed.

In this regard, according to the above means 5, the deforming means bends the packaging film in a state where the pocket portion protrudes toward the side opposite to the electromagnetic wave irradiation means. Therefore, the packaging film is curved so that the pocket portion is arranged on the curved outer side. As a result, the packaging film can be curved more reliably and smoothly, and the crushing deformation of the pocket portion can be prevented more reliably.

Means 6. The deformable means is rotatable and has an outer peripheral surface whose peripheral length gradually decreases from both ends to the center along the rotation axis direction, or a center from both ends along the rotation axis direction. Equipped with a deforming roller having an outer peripheral surface whose circumference gradually increases toward the portion side,
The inspection apparatus according to any one of means 1 to 5, wherein the deformation roller is configured to bend the packaging film when it comes into contact with the packaging film.

The outer peripheral surface of the deformation roller may have a recess for accommodating the pocket portion. In this case, if the peripheral length of the virtual outer peripheral surface including the outer peripheral surface of the deformation roller gradually decreases or gradually increases from both end sides to the center side along the rotation axis direction. , It can be said that the configuration of the above means 6 is satisfied.

According to the above means 6, the packaging film is curved when the deforming roller comes into contact with the packaging film. Therefore, the packaging film can be smoothly curved without applying an excessive load to the transported packaging film. As a result, deterioration of the quality of the manufactured packaging sheet can be prevented more reliably. Further, since the deforming means can be realized by a relatively simple configuration, it is possible to reduce the size and cost of the device and improve the convenience of maintenance.

Means 7. The inspection device according to means 6, wherein the deforming means is rotatable and has a pressing roller that sandwiches the packaging film with the deforming roller.

According to the above means 7, the packaging film can be more reliably curved into the desired shape. Therefore, it is possible to more effectively exert the various effects described above related to the inspection.

Means 8. The inspection device according to any one of means 1 to 7, wherein the deforming means and the deformed state maintaining means are each composed of devices having the same configuration.

According to the above means 8, the deforming means and the deformed state maintaining means are composed of the same device. Therefore, as compared with the case where each means is configured by different devices, it is possible to reduce the manufacturing cost, facilitate the parts management, and improve the maintainability.

Means 9. A packaging sheet manufacturing apparatus comprising the inspection apparatus according to any one of means 1 to 8.

According to the above-mentioned means 9, the same action and effect as the above-mentioned means 1 and the like are exhibited.

Means 10. A strip-shaped first film made of an opaque material and a strip-shaped second film made of an opaque material are attached, and a strip-shaped packaging film in which the contents are housed in a storage space formed between the two films. Is a packaging sheet manufacturing method for producing a packaging sheet by cutting off the packaging film.
An attachment step of attaching the strip-shaped first film to be conveyed and the strip-shaped second film to be conveyed, and
A filling step of filling the contents in the accommodation space formed between the first film and the second film, and
A cutting step of separating the wrapping sheet from the strip-shaped wrapping film to which the first film and the second film are attached and the contents are housed in the storage space.
It is provided with an inspection process for executing the inspection related to the packaging sheet.
The inspection process is
An irradiation step of irradiating the packaging film conveyed by an irradiation source of a predetermined electromagnetic wave irradiation means with an electromagnetic wave that can pass through the packaging film from the first film side.
Using an imaging means that is arranged on the second film side so as to face the electromagnetic wave irradiating means with the wrapping film sandwiched therein and has a detection unit capable of detecting electromagnetic waves transmitted through the wrapping film. An imaging process that acquires an electromagnetic wave transmission image based on the electromagnetic waves transmitted through the packaging film,
Including a quality determination step of determining the quality of the packaging film based on the electromagnetic wave transmission image acquired by the imaging step.
The irradiation step and the imaging step are performed in a state where the packaging film is curved so as to be convex toward the side opposite to the irradiation source and the curved shape of the packaging film is maintained.
A method for manufacturing a packaging sheet, wherein the detection unit of the imaging means has a curved shape along the curved shape of the packaging film.

According to the means 10, the same action and effect as that of the means 1 can be obtained.

It is a perspective view of a PTP sheet. It is a partially enlarged sectional view of the PTP sheet. It is a perspective view of a PTP film. It is a schematic block diagram of a PTP packaging machine. It is a block diagram which shows the electrical structure of an X-ray inspection apparatus. It is a schematic diagram which shows the schematic structure of the X-ray inspection apparatus. It is a perspective view which shows typically the positional relationship of an X-ray irradiation apparatus, an X-ray line sensor camera, and a PTP film. It is a perspective view which shows typically the schematic structure of the deformation device and the maintenance device. FIG. 8 is a sectional view taken along line JJ in FIG. It is a schematic diagram which shows the positional relationship of a PTP film and an X-ray irradiation apparatus. It is a flowchart which shows the manufacturing process. It is a flowchart which shows the pass / fail judgment process. It is a perspective view which shows typically the schematic structure of the deformation device and the maintenance device in another embodiment. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line KK of FIG. In another embodiment, it is a schematic view showing a PTP film or the like that is curved so that the pocket portion is located on the outside of the curve. It is a top view which shows the SP sheet.

Hereinafter, one embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. First, the PTP sheet 1 as a packaging sheet (sheet-shaped packaging body) will be described.

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the PTP sheet 1 includes a container film 3 having a plurality of protruding pocket portions 2 and a cover film 4 attached to the container film 3 so as to close the pocket portions 2. And have. In the present embodiment, the "container film 3" constitutes the "first film" and the "cover film 4" constitutes the "second film".

The container film 3 and the cover film 4 in the present embodiment are made of an opaque material using aluminum as a base material (main material). For example, the container film 3 is formed of an aluminum laminated film (an aluminum film laminated with a synthetic resin film). On the other hand, the cover film 4 is made of an aluminum film.

The PTP sheet 1 is formed in a substantially rectangular shape in a plan view, and its four corners are rounded in an arc shape. In the PTP sheet 1, two rows of pockets composed of five pocket portions 2 arranged along the longitudinal direction of the sheet are formed in the lateral direction of the sheet. That is, a total of 10 pocket portions 2 are formed. One tablet 5 as a content is stored in the storage space 2a in each pocket portion 2.

Further, on the PTP sheet 1, perforations 7 as separation lines for enabling separation into 6 units of sheet small pieces including a predetermined number (two in this embodiment) of pocket portions 2 are formed along the sheet short side direction. Multiple are formed.

Further, the PTP sheet 1 is provided with a tag portion 8 on which various information such as a tablet name and a lot number (characters "ABC" in the present embodiment) are engraved at one end in the longitudinal direction of the sheet. The tag portion 8 is not provided with the pocket portion 2, and is partitioned from the sheet small piece 6 by one perforation 7.

The PTP sheet 1 of the present embodiment is a final product from a strip-shaped PTP film 9 (see FIG. 3) as a packaging film (belt-shaped package) in which a strip-shaped container film 3 and a strip-shaped cover film 4 are attached. It is manufactured through a step of punching the PTP sheet 1 into a rectangular sheet.

As shown in FIG. 3, the PTP film 9 according to the present embodiment is provided with a plurality of rows of pocket portions 2 arranged along the longitudinal direction thereof (10 in the present embodiment) along the width direction thereof. Has been done. That is, the PTP film 9 in the present embodiment has a configuration in which a number of pocket portions 2 corresponding to two sheets are arranged along the width direction thereof. Further, the PTP film 9 is configured so that a portion corresponding to each tag portion 8 of the two PTP sheets 1 is located at the central portion in the width direction, and the pocket portion 2 does not exist in the central portion in the width direction. It is flat.

Next, a schematic configuration of the PTP packaging machine 10 as a packaging sheet manufacturing apparatus for manufacturing the PTP sheet 1 will be described.

As shown in FIG. 4, on the most upstream side of the PTP packaging machine 10, the original fabric of the strip-shaped container film 3 is wound in a roll shape. The drawer end side of the container film 3 wound in a roll shape is guided by the guide roll 13. The container film 3 is hung on the intermittent feed roll 14 on the downstream side of the guide roll 13. The intermittent feed roll 14 is connected to a motor that rotates intermittently, and intermittently conveys the container film 3.

A pocket portion forming device 16 as a pocket portion forming means is arranged between the guide roll 13 and the intermittent feed roll 14 along the transport path of the container film 3. By the pocket portion forming device 16, a plurality of pocket portions 2 are formed at a predetermined position of the container film 3 by cold working. The formation of the pocket portion 2 is performed during the interval between the transport operations of the container film 3 by the intermittent feed roll 14.

However, in the PTP packaging machine 10 of the present embodiment, the container film 3 is made of not only aluminum but also a thermoplastic resin material such as PP (polypropylene) or PVC (polyvinyl chloride) which is relatively hard and has a predetermined rigidity. It is a packaging machine (combined machine) that can be manufactured by. Therefore, a heating device 15 for heating the container film 3 to make it flexible is provided on the upstream side of the pocket portion forming device 16. Of course, the heating device 15 is not used when forming the container film 3 made of aluminum.

The container film 3 fed from the intermittent feed roll 14 is hung in the order of the tension roll 18, the guide roll 19, and the film receiving roll 20. Since the film receiving roll 20 is connected to a motor that rotates constantly, the container film 3 is continuously conveyed at a constant speed. The tension roll 18 is in a state of pulling the container film 3 toward the tension side by the elastic force, and prevents the container film 3 from loosening due to the difference in the transport operation between the intermittent feed roll 14 and the film receiving roll 20. The container film 3 is always kept in a tense state.

A tablet filling device 21 as a filling means is arranged between the guide roll 19 and the film receiving roll 20 along the transport path of the container film 3.

The tablet filling device 21 has a function of automatically filling the pocket portion 2 with the tablet 5. The tablet filling device 21 drops the tablet 5 by opening the shutter at predetermined intervals in synchronization with the transport operation of the container film 3 by the film receiving roll 20, and each pocket portion is accompanied by this shutter opening operation. 2 is filled with tablet 5.

On the other hand, the original fabric of the cover film 4 formed in a strip shape is wound in a roll shape on the most upstream side. The drawer end of the cover film 4 wound in a roll shape is guided toward the heating roll 23 via the guide roll 22. The heating roll 23 can be pressure-contacted with the film receiving roll 20, and the container film 3 and the cover film 4 are fed between the rolls 20 and 23.

Then, the container film 3 and the cover film 4 pass between the rolls 20 and 23 in a heat and pressure contact state, so that the cover film covers the flange portion 3a (see FIGS. 1 to 3) around the pocket portion 2 of the container film 3. 4 is attached, and the pocket portion 2 is closed with the cover film 4. As a result, the PTP film 9 in which the tablet 5 is filled in each pocket portion 2 is manufactured. In addition, on the surface of the heating roll 23, fine mesh-like ridges (not shown) for sealing are formed, and by strongly pressing the ridges (not shown), a strong seal can be realized. The film receiving roll 20 is provided with an encoder (not shown), and every time the film receiving roll 20 rotates by a predetermined amount, that is, every time the PTP film 9 is conveyed by a predetermined amount, the X-ray inspection device 45 described later On the other hand, it is configured to output a predetermined timing signal.

The PTP film 9 fed from the film receiving roll 20 is hung on the intermittent feed roll 28. Since the intermittent feed roll 28 is connected to a motor that rotates intermittently, the PTP film 9 is intermittently conveyed.

An X-ray inspection device 45 is arranged between the film receiving roll 20 and the intermittent feed roll 28 along the transport path of the PTP film 9. The X-ray inspection apparatus 45 detects an abnormality of the tablet 5 housed in the pocket portion 2 (for example, the presence or absence of the tablet 5, cracks, chips, etc.) and an abnormality of the flange portion 3a other than the pocket portion 2 (for example, on the flange portion 3a). This is for performing an X-ray inspection mainly for the detection of foreign matter present in the pocket. In the present embodiment, the "X-ray inspection device 45" constitutes the "inspection device".

The PTP film 9 fed from the intermittent feed roll 28 is hung in the order of the tension roll 29 and the intermittent feed roll 30. Since the intermittent feed roll 30 is connected to a motor that rotates intermittently, the PTP film 9 is intermittently conveyed. The tension roll 29 is in a state of pulling the PTP film 9 toward the tension side by the elastic force, and prevents the PTP film 9 from loosening between the intermittent feed rolls 28 and 30.

A perforation forming device 33 and a marking device 34 are sequentially arranged between the intermittent feed roll 28 and the tension roll 29 along the conveying path of the PTP film 9.

The perforation forming device 33 has a function of forming the perforation 7 at a predetermined position of the PTP film 9. The engraving device 34 has a function of attaching the engraving "ABC" to a predetermined position (position corresponding to the tag portion 8) of the PTP film 9.

The PTP film 9 fed from the intermittent feed roll 30 is hung in the order of the tension roll 35 and the continuous feed roll 36 on the downstream side thereof. A sheet punching device 37 is arranged between the intermittent feed roll 30 and the tension roll 35 along the transport path of the PTP film 9. The sheet punching device 37 has a function as a cutting means for punching the outer edge of the PTP film 9 in units of one PTP sheet.

The PTP sheet 1 punched by the sheet punching device 37 is conveyed by the conveyor 39 and temporarily stored in the finished product hopper 40. However, when the X-ray inspection device 45 determines that the product is defective, the PTP sheet 1 determined to be defective is not sent to the finished product hopper 40, and the defective sheet discharging mechanism as a discharging means (not shown) is used. Is discharged separately and transferred to a defective hopper (not shown).

A cutting device 41 is arranged on the downstream side of the continuous feed roll 36. Then, the unnecessary film portion 42 remaining in a strip shape after punching by the sheet punching device 37 is guided to the cutting device 41 after being guided by the tension roll 35 and the continuous feed roll 36. Here, the driven roll is pressure-welded to the continuous feed roll 36, and the transfer operation is performed while sandwiching the unnecessary film portion 42.

The cutting device 41 has a function of cutting the unnecessary film portion 42 to a predetermined size. The cut unnecessary film portion 42 (scrap) is stored in the scrap hopper 43 and then separately disposed of.

The rolls 14, 19, 20, 28, 29, 30 and the like have a positional relationship in which the roll surface and the pocket portion 2 face each other, but on the surface of each roll such as the intermittent feed roll 14. Since the recess for accommodating the pocket portion 2 is formed, the pocket portion 2 is not crushed. Further, since the pocket portion 2 is housed in each recess of each roll such as the intermittent feed roll 14, the feed operation is performed, so that the intermittent feed operation and the continuous feed operation are reliably performed.

The outline of the PTP packaging machine 10 is as described above, but the configuration of the X-ray inspection apparatus 45 will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. However, in FIG. 6 and the like, for the sake of simplicity, some configurations such as the pocket portion 2 of the PTP film 9 are omitted.

As shown in FIGS. 5 to 10, the X-ray inspection device 45 includes an X-ray irradiation device 51 that irradiates the PTP film 9 with X-rays that can transmit the PTP film 9 (particularly the container film 3 and the cover film 4). In the X-ray inspection device 45 such as the X-ray line sensor camera 52 that captures the X-ray transmission image of the PTP film 9 irradiated with the X-ray, and the drive control of the X-ray irradiation device 51 and the X-ray line sensor camera 52. It is provided with a control processing device 53 for performing various controls, image processing, arithmetic processing, and the like.

In this embodiment, "X-ray" corresponds to "electromagnetic wave". Further, the "X-ray transmission image" constitutes the "electromagnetic wave transmission image", the "control processing device 53" constitutes the "image processing means", and the "X-ray irradiation device 51" constitutes the "electromagnetic wave irradiation means". , "X-ray line sensor camera 52" constitutes an "imaging means".

The X-ray irradiation device 51 and the X-ray line sensor camera 52 are housed in a shielding box (not shown) made of a material capable of shielding X-rays. The shielding box has a structure in which leakage of X-rays to the outside is suppressed as much as possible, except that a slit-shaped opening for passing the PTP film 9 is provided.

The X-ray irradiation device 51 is arranged on the container film 3 side of the PTP film 9 which is conveyed downward in the vertical direction. The X-ray irradiation device 51 has an irradiation source 51a for irradiating X-rays at a position facing the center in the width direction of the PTP film 9. The irradiation source 51a has a source of X-rays and a collimator for narrowing down X-rays (not shown), and has a fan beam-like X having a predetermined spread (fan angle) in the width direction of the PTP film 9. The wire can be irradiated to the PTP film 9 from the container film 3 side. It should be noted that the configuration may be such that a cone beam-shaped X-ray having a predetermined spread can be irradiated with respect to the transport direction of the PTP film 9.

The X-ray line sensor camera 52 faces the X-ray irradiation device 51 along a direction orthogonal to the transport direction of the PTP film 9 and is opposite to the X-ray irradiation device 51 with the PTP film 9 interposed therebetween (this implementation). In the form, it is arranged on the cover film 4 side).

The X-ray line sensor camera 52 has an X-ray line sensor 52a in which a plurality of X-ray detection elements capable of detecting X-rays transmitted through the PTP film 9 are arranged in a row, and the X-rays transmitted through the PTP film 9 Is configured to be detectable. In the present embodiment, the X-ray line sensor camera 52 can image (expose) the X-rays transmitted through the PTP film 9. Examples of the X-ray detection element include a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) having an optical conversion layer by a scintillator. In the present embodiment, the "X-ray line sensor 52a" constitutes the "detection unit".

Further, the PTP film 9 is curved and deformed in an arc shape by the deformation device 54 and the maintenance device 55 described later, and the X-ray irradiation device 51 and the X-ray line sensor camera 52 side while maintaining this deformed state. The X-ray line sensor 52a is configured to form a curved shape along the curved shape of the PTP film 9. In the present embodiment, the X-ray line sensor 52a has an arc-shaped curved shape centered on the irradiation source 51a in a cross section that passes through the irradiation source 51a and is orthogonal to the transport direction of the PTP film 9.

The X-ray transmission image acquired by the X-ray line sensor camera 52 is converted into a digital signal (image signal) inside the camera 52 each time a predetermined amount of the PTP film 9 is conveyed, and then in the form of a digital signal. Is output to the control processing device 53 (the image data storage device 74 described below). Then, the control processing device 53 performs various inspections described later by performing predetermined processing or the like on the X-ray transmission image.

Next, the control processing device 53 will be described. The control processing device 53 includes a microcomputer 71 that controls the entire X-ray inspection device 45, an input device 72 composed of a keyboard, a mouse, a touch panel, etc., a display device 73 having a display screen such as a CRT or a liquid crystal display, and various image data. It is provided with an image data storage device 74 for storing such as, a calculation result storage device 75 for storing various calculation results, a setting data storage device 76 for storing various information in advance, and the like (FIG. 5). reference). Each of these devices 72 to 76 is electrically connected to the microcomputer 71.

The microcomputer 71 includes a CPU 71a as a calculation means, a ROM 71b for storing various programs, a RAM 71c for temporarily storing various data such as calculation data and input / output data, and controls various controls in the control processing device 53. , Is connected to the PTP packaging machine 10 so as to be able to transmit and receive various signals.

Further, the microcomputer 71 drives and controls, for example, the X-ray irradiation device 51 and the X-ray line sensor camera 52 to acquire an X-ray transmission image related to the PTP film 9, and based on the X-ray transmission image. An inspection process for inspecting the PTP sheet 1, an output process for outputting the inspection result related to the inspection process to the defective sheet discharging mechanism of the PTP packaging machine 10, and the like are executed.

The image data storage device 74 includes various images (images) such as an X-ray transmission image acquired by the X-ray line sensor camera 52, a binarized image that has been binarized at the time of inspection, and a masking image that has been masked. Data) is memorized.

The calculation result storage device 75 stores inspection result data, statistical data obtained by probabilistically processing the inspection result data, and the like. These inspection result data and statistical data can be appropriately displayed on the display device 73.

The setting data storage device 76 is for storing various information used for inspection. As these various information, for example, the shape and size of the PTP sheet 1, the pocket part 2 and the tablet 5, the shape and size of the sheet frame for defining the inspection area (the area to be inspected), and the area of the pocket part 2 are defined. The shape and size of the pocket frame for this purpose, the brightness threshold value used when performing the binarization process, the judgment reference value for performing various quality judgments (for example, the reference tablet area value Lo described later), etc. are set and stored. ing. In the present embodiment, for example, two types of a first threshold value δ1 and a second threshold value δ2 are set as the luminance threshold value for performing the binarization processing. The first threshold value δ1 is used when determining the quality of the tablet 5, and the second threshold value δ2 is used when determining the quality of the flange portion 3a.

Further, the X-ray inspection device 45 includes a deformation device 54 and a maintenance device 55. In the present embodiment, the "deformation device 54" constitutes the "deformation means", and the "maintenance device 55" constitutes the "deformation state maintenance means".

The deformation device 54 is arranged upstream of the X-ray irradiation device 51 along the transport path of the PTP film 9, and becomes convex toward the side opposite to the irradiation source 51a of the X-ray irradiation device 51. This is for bending the PTP film 9 as described above. The deformation device 54 includes a deformation roller 54a and a deformation pressing roller 54b. In the present embodiment, the "deformation pressing roller 54b" constitutes the "pressing roller".

The deformation roller 54a is supported in a state where it can freely rotate by an operating axis (not shown), and the outer peripheral surface whose peripheral length gradually decreases from both ends to the center along its own rotation axis Ar1 direction. (See FIG. 9). When the outer peripheral surface of the deforming roller 54a comes into contact with the PTP film 9 (cover film 4 in this embodiment), a portion other than the central portion in the width direction of the PTP film 9 is pressed toward the side where the X-ray irradiation device 51 is located. As a result, the PTP film 9 is curved so as to be convex toward the side opposite to the irradiation source 51a of the X-ray irradiation device 51.

In the present embodiment, when the deformation roller 54a or the X-ray irradiation device 51 is projected along the conveying direction of the PTP film 9, the projected X-rays on the outer peripheral surface of the projected deformation roller 54a are projected. The surface located on the irradiation device 51 side is configured to form an arc shape centered on the irradiation source 51a of the projected X-ray irradiation device 51. Therefore, in the present embodiment, the PTP film 9 is curved so as to form an arc shape centered on the irradiation source 51a in a cross section that passes through the irradiation source 51a and is orthogonal to the transport direction of the PTP film 9.

The deformation holding roller 54b is supported in a state where it can freely rotate by an operating shaft (not shown), and the outer circumference gradually increases from both end sides to the center side along its own rotation axis Ar2 direction. It has a surface (see FIG. 9). The outer peripheral surface of the deformation holding roller 54b can be pressure-contacted with the deformation roller 54a, and the PTP film 9 is fed between the two rollers 54a and 54b. The fed PTP film 9 is sandwiched between the rollers 54a and 54b.

In the present embodiment, when the deformation pressing roller 54b or the X-ray irradiation device 51 is projected along the conveying direction of the PTP film 9, the projected outer peripheral surface of the deforming pressing roller 54b is projected. The surface located on the X-ray irradiation device 51 side is configured to form an arc shape centered on the irradiation source 51a of the projected X-ray irradiation device 51. This makes it possible to more reliably bend the PTP film 9 so as to form an arc shape centered on the irradiation source 51a.

Further, in the present embodiment, the deformation pressing roller 54b is configured to come into contact with the portion of the PTP film 9 corresponding to the tag portion 8 and in contact with the central portion in the width direction in which the pocket portion 2 does not exist. As a result, a sufficient contact area of the deformation pressing roller 54b with respect to the PTP film 9 can be secured, and by extension, the pressure applied to the PTP film 9 from the deformation pressing roller 54b is relatively small, and the load applied to the PTP film 9 is relatively small. It is possible to reduce the amount of

The maintenance device 55 is arranged downstream of the X-ray irradiation device 51 along the transport path of the PTP film 9, and the deformation device 54 is at least at a position where X-rays are emitted from the X-ray irradiation device 51. This is for maintaining the shape of the PTP film 9 curved by the above. The maintenance device 55 includes a maintenance roller 55a and a maintenance holding roller 55b. In the present embodiment, the maintenance roller 55a has the same structure as the deformation roller 54a, and the maintenance holding roller 55b has the same structure as the deformation holding roller 54b. That is, the deformation device 54 and the maintenance device 55 are each composed of devices having the same configuration.

Further, the X-ray inspection device 45 includes a straight roller 56 as a return means downstream of the maintenance device 55 along the transport direction of the PTP film 9. The straight roller 56 is supported in a state where it can freely rotate by an operating shaft (not shown), and its outer diameter is constant along its own rotation axis direction. A PTP film 9 is mounted on the straight roller 56, and when the outer peripheral surface of the straight roller 56 comes into contact with the PTP film 9 (cover film 4), the PTP film 9 can be returned to a flat state. ing.

The straight roller 56 in the present embodiment is configured to be in a state in which the PTP film 9 is pulled toward the tension side by the elastic force. This makes it possible to return the PTP film 9 to a flat state more reliably. Further, between the film receiving roll 20 and the intermittent feed roll 28 (that is, the position corresponding to the arrangement location of the X-ray inspection device 45), the PTP film 9 is caused by a difference in the transport operation between the film receiving roll 20 and the intermittent feed roll 28. It is also possible to prevent slack and keep the PTP film 9 in a tense state at all times.

Next, the manufacturing process of the PTP sheet 1 including the inspection step performed by the X-ray inspection apparatus 45 will be described.

As shown in FIG. 11, first, in the pocket portion forming step of step S1, the pocket portion 2 is sequentially formed on the container film 3 by the pocket portion forming device 16. Next, in the filling step of step S2, the tablet 5 is filled into the storage space 2a of the pocket portion 2 by the tablet filling device 21.

Following the filling step S2, the attachment step of step S3 is performed. In the attachment step, the container film 3 and the cover film 4 to be conveyed are fed between the rolls 20 and 23, so that the cover film 4 is attached to the container film 3 and the PTP film 9 is obtained.

After that, the inspection step of step S4 using the X-ray inspection device 45 is performed. In the inspection step of step S4, the continuously conveyed PTP film 9 is deformed in a curved shape by the deformation device 54 and the maintenance device 55, and this deformed state is maintained, and then from the outside of the shielding box. It is carried in sequentially to the inside.

Then, in the irradiation step of step S41, the X-ray irradiation device 51 and the X-ray line sensor camera 52 are driven and controlled by the microcomputer 71, so that the curved PTP film 9 is irradiated with X-rays (see FIG. 10). ). At this time, since the PTP film 9 forms an arc shape centered on the irradiation source 51a, the distances from the irradiation source 51a to each part of the PTP film 9 are substantially equal, and the X-ray irradiation device 51 irradiates each part of the PTP film 9. The X-ray intensity produced is almost the same.

Further, in the imaging step of step S42, every time a predetermined amount of the PTP film 9 is conveyed, the X-ray line sensor 52a acquires a one-dimensional X-ray transmission image obtained by imaging the X-rays transmitted through the PTP film 9. To. At this time, since the X-ray line sensor 52a has a curved shape that follows the curved shape of the PTP film 9, the incident angle α of the X-ray that passes through the PTP film 9 and is incident on the X-ray line sensor 52a is transmitted. It does not differ greatly depending on the position of the PTP film 9, and is substantially the same in each part of the X-ray line sensor 52a (see FIG. 10).

Then, the X-ray transmission image acquired by the X-ray line sensor camera 52 is converted into a digital signal inside the camera 52, and then is converted into a digital signal for the control processing device 53 (image data storage device 74). It is output.

More specifically, when the timing signal is input to the microcomputer 71 from the encoder while the PTP film 9 is constantly irradiated with X-rays from the X-ray irradiation device 51, the microcomputer 71 causes the X-ray line sensor camera 52. The exposure process is started.

Then, when the next timing signal is input, the charges accumulated in the light receiving portion such as the photodiode up to that point are collectively transferred to the shift register. Subsequently, the electric charge transferred to the shift register is sequentially output as an image signal (X-ray transmission image) according to the transfer clock signal until the next timing signal is input.

That is, the time from the time when the predetermined timing signal is input from the encoder to the time when the timing signal is input next is the exposure time in the X-ray line sensor camera 52.

In the present embodiment, the width of the X-ray line sensor 52a in the transport direction of the PTP film 9, that is, the length corresponding to the width of one CCD, each time the PTP film 9 is transported, the X-ray line sensor camera The structure is such that an X-ray transmission image is acquired by 52. Of course, a configuration different from this may be adopted.

The X-ray transmission images output from the X-ray line sensor camera 52 are sequentially stored in the image data storage device 74 in chronological order.

Then, the series of processes is repeated every time a predetermined amount of the PTP film 9 is conveyed, so that the image data storage device 74 finally has two PTP sheets 1 arranged in the width direction of the PTP film 9. The X-ray transmission image is stored. In this way, when the X-ray transmission image related to the product PTP sheet 1 is acquired, the pass / fail determination step of step S43 is executed by the microcomputer 71.

Next, the quality determination process (inspection routine) will be described in detail with reference to the flowchart of FIG. The quality determination step shown in FIG. 12 is a process performed on each PTP sheet 1 to be a product. Therefore, in the present embodiment, each time the PTP film 9 is conveyed by the amount corresponding to one PTP sheet 1, the pass / fail judgment is made for each of the parts related to the two PTP sheets 1 included in the X-ray transmission image. The process will be carried out.

First, the inspection image acquisition process is executed in step S4301. Specifically, among the X-ray transmission images, the image related to the PTP sheet 1 to be inspected is read out as an inspection image from the image data storage device 74.

Then, in step S4302, the binarization process is executed. Specifically, a binarized image obtained by binarizing the X-ray transmission image acquired as an inspection image in step S4301 at the tablet abnormality detection level is generated, and this is stored in the image data storage device 74 as a binarized image for tablet inspection. It will be remembered. Here, for example, the X-ray transmission image is converted into a binarized image by setting the first threshold value δ1 or more as “1 (bright part)” and the first threshold value less than δ1 as “0 (dark part)”.

At the same time, a binarized image obtained by binarizing the X-ray transmission image acquired as an inspection image in step S4301 at the flange abnormality detection level is generated, and this is an image data storage device 74 as a binarized image for flange portion inspection. Is remembered in. Here, for example, the X-ray transmission image is converted into a binarized image by setting the second threshold value δ2 or more as “1 (bright part)” and the second threshold value less than δ2 as “0 (dark part)”.

Next, the microcomputer 71 executes the mass processing in step S4303. Specifically, the mass processing is executed on the various binarized images acquired in step S4302. As the mass processing, a process of specifying a connected component for each of "0 (dark part)" and "1 (bright part)" of the binarized image and a labeling process of labeling each connected component are performed. .. Here, the occupied area of each connected component specified by each is represented by the number of dots corresponding to the pixels of the X-ray line sensor camera 52.

Next, the microcomputer 71 executes the inspection target identification process in step S4304. Specifically, the connected component corresponding to the tablet 5, that is, the tablet region is specified from the “0 (dark portion)” connected components specified by the mass treatment in step S4303 based on the binarized image for tablet inspection. .. The connecting component corresponding to the tablet 5 can be specified by determining a connecting component including predetermined coordinates, a connecting component having a predetermined shape, a connecting component having a predetermined area, and the like. At the same time, the “0 (dark portion)” connecting component identified by the mass treatment in step S4303 based on the binarized image for flange portion inspection is specified as a connecting component corresponding to a foreign substance, that is, a foreign substance region.

Next, the microcomputer 71 executes the masking process of step S4305. Specifically, by setting the sheet frame and the pocket frame for the binarized image for tablet inspection, the inspection area in the binarized image is defined, and the binarized image corresponding to the inspection area is defined. Masking processing is performed on a region other than the pocket portion 2 region (that is, a region corresponding to the flange portion 3a). The image subjected to such masking processing is stored in the image data storage device 74 as a masking image for tablet inspection. At the same time, by setting the sheet frame and the pocket frame for the binarized image for flange portion inspection, the inspection area in the binarized image is defined, and the binarized image corresponding to the inspection area is defined. Of these, masking processing is performed on the two pocket portions. The image subjected to such masking processing is stored in the image data storage device 74 as a masking image for flange portion inspection.

In the present embodiment, the setting positions of the seat frame and the pocket frame are predetermined by the relative positional relationship with the PTP film 9. Therefore, in the present embodiment, the set positions of the seat frame and the pocket frame are not adjusted each time according to the inspection image, but the inspection image is not limited to this and takes into consideration the occurrence of misalignment and the like. The setting positions of the seat frame and the pocket frame may be appropriately adjusted based on the information obtained from the above.

Next, in step S4306, the value of the good tablet product flag of all pockets 2 is set to "0" by the microcomputer 71. The "good tablet flag" is for indicating the quality determination result of the tablet 5 housed in the corresponding pocket portion 2, and is set in the calculation result storage device 75. Then, when the tablet 5 housed in the predetermined pocket portion 2 is determined to be a non-defective product, the value of the corresponding non-defective tablet product flag is set to "1".

In the following step S4307, the microcomputer 71 sets the value C of the pocket number counter set in the calculation result storage device 75 to "1", which is the initial value. The "pocket number" is a serial number set corresponding to each of the ten pocket portions 2 in the inspection area related to one PTP sheet 1, and is a value C of the pocket number counter (hereinafter, simply referred to as "pocket number"). The position of the pocket portion 2 can be specified by the "pocket number C").

Then, in step S4308, the microcomputer 71 determines whether or not the pocket number C is equal to or less than the number of pockets N (“10” in the present embodiment) per inspection area (per one PTP sheet). To.

If an affirmative judgment is made in step S4308, the process proceeds to step S4309, and the microcomputer 71 in the pocket portion 2 corresponding to the current pocket number C (for example, C = 1) based on the masking image for tablet inspection. , The lump in which the area value of the tablet region (linking component) is equal to or more than the reference tablet area value Lo is extracted (the lump less than Lo is removed).

Subsequently, in step S4310, the microcomputer 71 determines whether or not the number of lumps in the pocket portion 2 is "1". If an affirmative determination is made here, that is, if the number of lumps is "1", the process proceeds to step S4311. On the other hand, if a negative determination is made, the tablet 5 housed in the pocket portion 2 corresponding to the current pocket number C is regarded as a defective product, and the process proceeds to step S4313 as it is.

In step S4311, the microcomputer 71 determines whether or not the shape, length, area, and the like of the tablet 5 are appropriate. If an affirmative determination is made here, the process proceeds to step S4312. On the other hand, if a negative determination is made, the tablet 5 housed in the pocket portion 2 corresponding to the current pocket number C is regarded as a defective product, and the process proceeds to step S4313 as it is.

In step S4312, the microcomputer 71 determines that the tablet 5 housed in the pocket portion 2 corresponding to the current pocket number C is a good product, and the value of the tablet good product flag corresponding to the pocket number C is “1”. Is set to. After that, the process proceeds to step S4313.

In step S4313, a new pocket number C is set by adding "1" to the current pocket number C by the microcomputer 71. Then, the process returns to step S4308.

Then, when the newly set pocket number C is still less than or equal to the number of pockets N (“10” in the present embodiment), the process proceeds to step S4309 again, and the series of tablet inspection processes is repeatedly executed.

On the other hand, when it is determined that the newly set pocket number C exceeds the number of pockets N, that is, when an affirmative determination is made in step S4308, the pass / fail determination process for the tablets 5 contained in all the pocket portions 2 is performed. It is considered that the process has been completed, and the process proceeds to step S4314.

In step S4314, the microcomputer 71 determines whether or not the flange portion 3a is a good product. Specifically, based on the masking image for flange portion inspection, for example, it is determined whether or not there is a foreign matter having a predetermined size or larger in the region of the flange portion 3a.

If an affirmative determination is made here, the process proceeds to step S4315. On the other hand, if a negative determination is made, that is, if it is determined that there is an abnormality in the flange portion 3a, the process proceeds to step S4317.

In step S4315, the microcomputer 71 determines whether or not the value of the good tablet product flag of all the pockets 2 in the inspection area is “1”. Thereby, it is determined whether the PTP sheet 1 corresponding to the inspection area is a non-defective product or a defective product.

When affirmative determination is made here, that is, when the tablets 5 contained in all the pocket portions 2 in the inspection area are "good products" and none of the tablets 5 (pocket portions 2) determined to be "defective products" are present. In step S4316, the PTP sheet 1 corresponding to the inspection area is determined to be a “non-defective product”, and the quality determination step is completed.

On the other hand, if a negative determination is made in step S4315, that is, if even one tablet 5 (pocket portion 2) determined to be a "defective product" is present in the inspection area, the process proceeds to step S4317.

In step S4317, the microcomputer 71 determines that the PTP sheet 1 corresponding to the inspection area is a “defective product”, and the quality determination step is completed.

In the non-defective product determination process in step S4316 and the defective product determination process in step S4317, the microcomputer 71 stores the inspection result regarding the PTP sheet 1 corresponding to the inspection area in the calculation result storage device 75 and PTP. It is output to the packaging machine 10 (including the defective sheet discharging mechanism).

Returning to FIG. 11, after the inspection step of step S4, in the perforation forming step of step S5, the perforation forming device 33 forms a perforation at a predetermined position of the PTP film 9. Further, in the engraving step of the subsequent step S6, the engraving device 34 provides engraving on the PTP film 9. After that, the cutting step of step S7 is performed, so that the manufacturing step of the PTP sheet 1 is completed. In the cutting step, the PTP film 9 is punched by the sheet punching device 37, and the PTP sheet 1 is cut off from the PTP film 9, so that the PTP sheet 1 is manufactured.

As described in detail above, according to the present embodiment, the PTP film 9 is curved by the deformation device 54 so as to be convex toward the side opposite to the X-ray irradiation device 51, and the maintenance device 55. While the curved shape of the PTP film 9 is maintained, X-rays are applied to the PTP film 9 and an X-ray transmission image is acquired. Therefore, the difference in the distance from the X-ray irradiation source 51a to each position of the PTP film 9 can be reduced as compared with the case where the PTP film 9 is inspected in a flat state, and at each position of the PTP film 9. It is possible to suppress the variation in the intensity of the irradiated X-rays. Further, since the X-ray line sensor 52a has a curved shape that follows the curved shape of the PTP film 9, the incident angle of the X-ray that passes through the PTP film 9 and is incident on the X-ray line sensor 52a is the transmitted PTP. It does not differ greatly depending on the position of the film 9. Combined with these effects, the obtained X-ray transmission image becomes more homogeneous at each position. As a result, when the inspection related to the PTP sheet 1 is executed based on the X-ray transmission image, it is not necessary to set the threshold value for each row of the tablets 5, and the decrease in the inspection efficiency can be suppressed. In addition, it is possible to more reliably suppress fluctuations in the inspection result due to the difference in position on the PTP film 9, and it is possible to more reliably ensure the uniformity of the inspection quality.

Further, in the present embodiment, the PTP film 9 is configured to be curved so as to form an arc shape centered on the irradiation source 51a. Therefore, the distance from the irradiation source 51a to each position of the PTP film 9 can be made substantially constant, and the intensity of the X-rays irradiated at each position of the PTP film 9 can be made substantially equal. Further, the incident angle of the X-rays transmitted through the PTP film 9 and incident on the X-ray line sensor 52a can be made substantially the same regardless of the position of the transmitted PTP film 9. As a result, the obtained X-ray transmission image becomes more homogeneous at each position.

In addition, in the present embodiment, the deformation device 54 includes a deformation roller 54a having an outer peripheral surface whose peripheral length gradually changes, and the deformation roller 54a comes into contact with the PTP film 9. , PTP film 9 is curved. Therefore, the PTP film 9 can be smoothly curved without applying an excessive load to the conveyed PTP film 9. As a result, deterioration of the quality of the manufactured PTP sheet 1 can be prevented more reliably. Further, since the deformation device 54 can be realized by a relatively simple configuration, it is possible to reduce the size and cost of the device and improve the convenience of maintenance.

At the same time, since the deformation device 54 includes a deformation pressing roller 54b that sandwiches the PTP film 9 with the deformation roller 54a, the PTP film 9 can be more reliably curved into a target shape. Therefore, it is possible to more effectively exert the various effects described above related to the inspection.

Further, the deformation device 54 and the maintenance device 55 are configured by the same device. Therefore, as compared with the case where the deformation device 54 and the maintenance device 55 are configured by different devices, it is possible to reduce the manufacturing cost, facilitate the parts management, and improve the maintainability.

Further, the straight roller 56 can return the curved PTP film 9 to a flat state. Therefore, various treatments (for example, various treatments in the perforation forming step, the marking step, and the cutting step) on the PTP film 9 after the inspection can be performed more accurately (as intended). In addition, since the straight roller 56 is used as the returning means, the PTP film 9 can be more reliably and easily flattened, and the structure of the returning means can be prevented from becoming complicated.

The content is not limited to the description of the above embodiment, and may be implemented as follows, for example. Of course, other application examples and modification examples not illustrated below are also possible.

(A) In the above embodiment, the deformation roller 54a has an outer peripheral surface whose peripheral length gradually decreases from both end sides to the center side along the rotation axis Ar1 direction. As shown in 13 and 14 (note that the pocket portion 2 is not shown in FIG. 13 and the like), it has an outer peripheral surface whose peripheral length gradually increases from both end portions to the center portion along the rotation axis Ar3 direction. The deformation roller 57a may be configured as described above. According to the deformation roller 57a, the PTP film 9 is projected toward the side opposite to the irradiation source 51a by pressing the central portion of the PTP film 9 in the width direction toward the side where the X-ray line sensor camera 52 is located. It can be curved so as to be.

In this case, a recess for accommodating the pocket portion 2 may be provided on the outer peripheral surface of the deformation roller 57a. Further, the deformation pressing roller 57b may be configured to be in contact with at least both ends in the width direction of the PTP film 9. Further, the maintenance roller 58a has the same configuration as the deformation roller 57a, and the maintenance holding roller 58b has the same configuration as the deformation holding roller 57b, so that the deformation device 57 and the maintenance device 58 have the same configuration, respectively. It may consist of the following devices.

Further, the deformation roller may bend the PTP film 9 by contacting only one of the central portion in the width direction and both ends in the width direction of the PTP film 9.

(B) In the above embodiment, the pocket portion 2 is configured to bend the PTP film 9 in a state of protruding toward the X-ray irradiation device 51 side. On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 15, the PTP film 9 in which the pocket portion 2 is projected toward the side opposite to the X-ray irradiation device 51 may be curved. In this case, the PTP film 9 is curved so that the pocket portion 2 is arranged on the outside of the curve. Therefore, the PTP film 9 can be curved more reliably and smoothly, and the crushing deformation of the pocket portion 2 can be prevented more reliably.

In this case, the container film 3 having the pocket portion 2 is arranged on the X-ray line sensor camera 52 side, and the cover film 4 is arranged on the X-ray irradiation device 51 side. Therefore, the "container film 3" constitutes the "second film", and the "cover film 4" constitutes the "first film".

(C) The configuration of the packaging sheet to be inspected is not limited to the PTP sheet 1 according to the above embodiment. For example, the SP sheet may be the inspection target.

As shown in FIG. 16, in a general SP sheet 90, two strip-shaped films 91 and 92 made of an opaque material based on aluminum are laminated, and a tablet 5 is formed between the two films 91 and 92. By joining both films 91 and 92 around the storage space 93 (the shaded pattern portion in FIG. 16) so as to leave a bag-shaped storage space 93 around the tablet 5 while filling the tablet 5. The wrapping film is formed by cutting the wrapping film into a rectangular sheet shape.

The SP sheet 90 has vertical perforations 95 formed along the longitudinal direction of the sheet and the lateral direction of the sheet as separation lines for enabling separation into 94 units of sheet pieces including one accommodation space 93. Horizontal perforations 96 formed along the line may be formed. Further, the SP sheet 90 may be provided with a tag portion 97 on which various information (characters “ABC” in the present embodiment) is printed at one end in the longitudinal direction of the sheet.

(D) In the above embodiment, in the irradiation step and the imaging step, the PTP film 9 is configured to be curved in an arc shape centered on the irradiation source 51a, but is convex toward the side opposite to the irradiation source 51a. If this is the case, the bending mode of the PTP film 9 may be appropriately changed. Therefore, the PTP film 9 may be curved so as to form an arc shape centered on a position (point) different from that of the irradiation source 51a in a cross section that passes through the irradiation source 51a and is orthogonal to the transport direction of the PTP film 9. Further, the PTP film 9 may be curved so as to form an elliptical arc shape.

(E) In the above embodiment, the deformation device 54 and the maintenance device 55 are each composed of devices having the same configuration, but the deformation device 54 and the maintenance device 55 may be configured by different devices. ..

(F) The arrangement and number of pocket portions 2 of one unit of the PTP sheet are not limited to the embodiment (2 rows, 10 pieces) of the above embodiment, and for example, 12 pocket portions 2 in 3 rows (accommodation space). PTP sheets having various arrangements and numbers, including the type having 2a), can be adopted (the same applies to the above SP sheet). Of course, the number of pockets (accommodation space) included in one sheet piece is not limited to the above embodiment.

(G) The PTP sheet 1 according to the above embodiment is formed with perforations 7 in which cuts penetrating in the thickness direction of the PTP sheet 1 are intermittently arranged as a separation line, but the separation line is formed on this. The structure is not limited, and different configurations may be adopted depending on the materials of the container film 3 and the cover film 4. For example, a non-penetrating separation line such as a slit (half-cut line) having a substantially V-shaped cross section may be formed. Further, the structure may be such that a separation line such as a perforation 7 is not formed.

(H) The materials, layer structures, and the like of the first film and the second film are not limited to the configurations of the container film 3 and the cover film 4 according to the above embodiment. For example, in the above embodiment, the container film 3 and the cover film 4 are formed using a metal material such as aluminum as a base material, but the present invention is not limited to this, and other materials may be adopted. For example, a synthetic resin material or the like that does not transmit visible light or the like may be adopted.

(I) The structure of the packaging film is not limited to the above embodiment, and other structures may be adopted.

In the above embodiment, the PTP film 9 has a configuration in which a number of pocket portions 2 corresponding to two sheets are arranged along the width direction thereof, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the PTP film 9 is not limited to this, for example. The pocket portions 2 may be arranged in a number corresponding to one sheet along the width direction. Of course, the PTP film 9 may have a configuration in which a number of pocket portions 2 corresponding to three or more sheets are arranged along the width direction thereof.

Further, in the above embodiment, a portion corresponding to each tag portion 8 of the two PTP sheets 1 is arranged in the central portion in the width direction of the PTP film 9. On the other hand, the portions corresponding to the tag portions 8 of the two PTP sheets 1 may be arranged at both ends in the width direction of the PTP film 9. Further, of the two PTP sheets 1, the portion corresponding to the tag portion 8 of one PTP sheet 1 is arranged in the central portion in the width direction of the PTP film 9, and the portion corresponding to the tag portion 8 of the other PTP sheet 1. May be configured to be arranged at the widthwise end of the PTP film 9.

(J) The configuration of the electromagnetic wave irradiation means is not limited to the above embodiment. In the above embodiment, the configuration is such that X-rays are irradiated as electromagnetic waves, but the configuration is not limited to this, and other electromagnetic waves that transmit through the PTP film 9 such as terahertz electromagnetic waves may be used.

(K) The configuration of the imaging means is not limited to the above embodiment. For example, in the above embodiment, a CCD camera (X-ray line sensor camera 52) using a scintillator is adopted as an imaging means, but the present invention is not limited to this, and a camera that directly incidents X-rays to image may be adopted. ..

Further, in the above embodiment, an X-ray line sensor camera 52 in which CCDs are arranged in a row is adopted as an imaging means, but the present invention is not limited to this, for example, a CCD row (detection element row) in the transport direction of the PTP film 9. An X-ray TDI (Time Delivery Integration) camera having a plurality of rows of cameras may be adopted. Thereby, the inspection accuracy and the inspection efficiency can be further improved.

(L) The configuration, the arrangement position, and the like of the X-ray inspection apparatus 45 are not limited to the above-described embodiment.

For example, in the above embodiment, the X-ray inspection device 45 is arranged at a position where the PTP film 9 is conveyed in the vertical direction, but the present invention is not limited to this, and for example, the PTP film 9 is conveyed in the horizontal direction. The X-ray inspection device 45 may be arranged at a position or a position where the X-ray inspection device is conveyed diagonally.

Further, the position adjustment that allows the X-ray irradiation device 51 and the X-ray line sensor camera 52 to be moved along the transport direction of the PTP film 9 and the contact / separation direction with respect to the PTP film 9 according to the size and layout of the PTP film 9. It may be configured to include a mechanism (position adjusting means).

(M) In the above embodiment, the straight roller 56 as the returning means has a function of applying tension to the PTP film 9, but may not have such a function.

Further, as the returning means, one that can bend the PTP film 9 on the side opposite to the bending direction of the PTP film 9 by the deformation device 54 may be used. In this case, the curved shape of the PTP film 9 by the deformation device 54 and the maintenance device 55 can be effectively corrected, and the PTP film 9 can be returned to a flat state more reliably.

(N) In the above embodiment, the tablet 5 is mentioned as the content, but the content is not limited to this, and may be, for example, a capsule, a food product, a small part, or the like.

1 ... PTP sheet (packaging sheet), 2 ... pocket, 2a ... storage space, 3 ... container film (first film), 4 ... cover film (second film), 5 ... tablets (contents), 9 ... PTP Film (packaging film), 10 ... PTP packaging machine (packaging sheet manufacturing device), 45 ... X-ray inspection device (inspection device), 51 ... X-ray irradiation device (electromagnetic wave irradiation means), 51a ... irradiation source, 52 ... X-ray Line sensor camera (imaging means), 52a ... X-ray line sensor (detection unit), 53 ... control processing device (image processing device), 54 ... deformation device (transformation means), 54a ... deformation roller, 54b ... for deformation Pressing roller (pressing roller), 55 ... Maintaining device (deformed state maintaining means), 56 ... Straight roller (returning means).

Claims (10)

A strip-shaped first film made of an opaque material and a strip-shaped second film made of an opaque material are attached, and a strip-shaped packaging film in which the contents are housed in a storage space formed between the two films. Is an inspection device used to obtain a packaging sheet by cutting the packaging film.
An electromagnetic wave irradiation means having an irradiation source that irradiates the transported packaging film with an electromagnetic wave that can transmit the packaging film from the first film side.
It is arranged on the second film side so as to face the electromagnetic wave irradiating means with the packaging film sandwiched therein, and has a detection unit capable of detecting electromagnetic waves transmitted through the packaging film, and the electromagnetic waves transmitted through the packaging film can be detected. An imaging means for acquiring an electromagnetic wave transmission image based on the
Based on the electromagnetic wave transmission image acquired by the imaging means, the packaging sheet is provided with an image processing means capable of performing an inspection related to the packaging sheet, and is provided.
A deforming means that is arranged upstream of the electromagnetic wave irradiation means along the transport path of the packaging film and that bends the packaging film so as to be convex toward the side opposite to the irradiation source of the electromagnetic wave irradiation means. ,
A deformed state that is arranged downstream of the electromagnetic wave irradiating means along the transport path and can maintain the shape of the packaging film curved by the deforming means at least at a position where electromagnetic waves are radiated from the electromagnetic wave irradiating means. Has maintenance means and
The detection unit of the imaging means is an inspection device having a curved shape along the curved shape of the packaging film. The inspection device according to claim 1, wherein the deforming means is configured to bend the packaging film so as to form an arc shape centered on the irradiation source. The inspection apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a returning means for returning the packaging film to a flat state, which is arranged downstream of the deformed state maintaining means along the transport path. The return means includes a straight roller that is rotatable and has a constant outer diameter along the rotation axis direction.
The inspection device according to claim 3, wherein the outer peripheral surface of the straight roller is configured to return the packaging film to a flat state when it comes into contact with the packaging film. The second film has a protruding shape and has a pocket portion whose internal space forms the accommodation space.
The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the deforming means bends the packaging film in which the pocket portion protrudes toward the side opposite to the electromagnetic wave irradiating means. Inspection equipment. The deformable means is rotatable and has an outer peripheral surface whose peripheral length gradually decreases from both ends to the center along the rotation axis direction, or a center from both ends along the rotation axis direction. Equipped with a deforming roller having an outer peripheral surface whose circumference gradually increases toward the portion side,
The inspection apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the deformation roller is configured to bend the packaging film when it comes into contact with the packaging film. The inspection device according to claim 6, wherein the deforming means is rotatable and has a pressing roller that sandwiches the packaging film with the deforming roller. The inspection device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the deforming means and the deformed state maintaining means are each composed of devices having the same configuration. A packaging sheet manufacturing apparatus comprising the inspection apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8. A strip-shaped first film made of an opaque material and a strip-shaped second film made of an opaque material are attached, and a strip-shaped packaging film in which the contents are housed in a storage space formed between the two films. Is a packaging sheet manufacturing method for producing a packaging sheet by cutting off the packaging film.
An attachment step of attaching the strip-shaped first film to be conveyed and the strip-shaped second film to be conveyed, and
A filling step of filling the contents in the accommodation space formed between the first film and the second film, and
A cutting step of separating the wrapping sheet from the strip-shaped wrapping film to which the first film and the second film are attached and the contents are housed in the storage space.
It is provided with an inspection process for executing the inspection related to the packaging sheet.
The inspection process is
An irradiation step of irradiating the packaging film conveyed by an irradiation source of a predetermined electromagnetic wave irradiation means with an electromagnetic wave that can pass through the packaging film from the first film side.
Using an imaging means that is arranged on the second film side so as to face the electromagnetic wave irradiating means with the wrapping film sandwiched therein and has a detection unit capable of detecting electromagnetic waves transmitted through the wrapping film. An imaging process that acquires an electromagnetic wave transmission image based on the electromagnetic waves transmitted through the packaging film,
Including a quality determination step of determining the quality of the packaging film based on the electromagnetic wave transmission image acquired by the imaging step.
The irradiation step and the imaging step are performed in a state where the packaging film is curved so as to be convex toward the side opposite to the irradiation source and the curved shape of the packaging film is maintained.
A method for manufacturing a packaging sheet, wherein the detection unit of the imaging means has a curved shape along the curved shape of the packaging film.

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