JP4213108B2 - Lighting device for visual inspection - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention belongs to a technical field including an illumination device for appearance inspection used for appearance inspection performed in manufacturing a PTP sheet.

  In general, a PTP sheet is attached to a packaging film made of resin in which a pocket portion filled with tablets and the like is formed, and the packaging film so that the opening side of the pocket portion is sealed to the packaging film. It is comprised from the cover film made from aluminum.

  By the way, when foreign matter such as hair or dust is present between the two films or foreign matter adheres to the tablet, the product is defective and must be excluded at the manufacturing stage. For this reason, conventionally, there is a technique for inspecting sheet foreign matter / tablet foreign matter (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

  In addition, when a sugar-coated tablet is employed as the tablet, there is a technique for detecting the peeling of the surface of the sugar-coated tablet (for example, see Patent Document 2).

In addition, if the attached cover film is defectively attached or wrinkled, the sealing performance is deteriorated, resulting in poor sealing, and the expiration date of the filled tablet or the like may be shortened. For this reason, there is a technique in which a seal failure is detected by an appearance inspection device (see, for example, Patent Document 3).
JP 2003-215047 A JP 2002-99898 A Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 8-193554

  However, in each of the above-described inspections, the illumination modes (light wavelength, etc.) are different, and the actual situation is that each inspection is embodied as a single inspection apparatus. That is, each inspection device is installed in a different place, and an illumination device and an imaging device are installed corresponding to each inspection device. For this reason, there exists a possibility of causing the increase in cost and the problem on installation space.

  Also, in each inspection, it is necessary to recognize the tablet position and pocket part position, but the tablet position and pocket part position cannot be detected properly due to the lightness difference and color of the tablet and cover film. There is. In addition, depending on the inspection, it may be necessary to manually input the tablet position or pocket position. Therefore, there is a possibility that the inspection accuracy is lowered and the inspection efficiency is deteriorated.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and relates to an illuminating device used for inspecting the appearance defect of a PTP sheet, while reducing costs and making the installation space compact, and improving inspection accuracy and inspection efficiency. One of the main purposes is to provide an illumination device for visual inspection that can contribute to improvement.

  In the following, each means suitable for solving the above-mentioned purpose will be described in terms of items. In addition, the effect etc. peculiar to the means to respond | correspond as needed are added.

Means 1. Inspecting the sheet foreign matter / tablet foreign matter, which is performed in the production of the PTP sheet in which the tablet is accommodated in the pocket portion formed in the packaging film and the cover film is attached in a sealed state so as to close the pocket portion, and It is an illumination device for visual inspection used for inspection related to tablet surface peeling,
Vertical infrared light irradiation means capable of irradiating infrared light in a substantially vertical direction from the pocket portion side to the sheet being transferred;
Vertical white light irradiation means capable of irradiating white light in a substantially vertical direction from the pocket portion side to the sheet being transferred,
When inspecting the sheet foreign matter / tablet foreign matter, at least the vertical infrared light irradiation means is turned on,
An illumination device for appearance inspection, which is configured to be switchable so that at least the vertical white light irradiation means is turned on in the inspection related to the tablet surface peeling.

  According to the means 1, at the time of the inspection relating to the sheet foreign matter / tablet foreign matter, at least the vertical infrared light irradiation means is turned on, and infrared light is irradiated in a substantially vertical direction from the pocket portion side to the sheet being transferred. . For this reason, it is easy to recognize a tablet appropriately, especially when a so-called “flat tablet” having a flat top surface is adopted as a tablet. As a result, since the position of the tablet can be accurately grasped when the inspection relating to the sheet foreign matter / tablet foreign matter is performed, a more accurate inspection can be performed. In the inspection relating to tablet surface peeling, at least the vertical white light irradiation means is turned on, and white light is irradiated in a substantially vertical direction from the pocket portion side to the sheet being transferred. For this reason, for example, when a sugar-coated tablet or the like is adopted as a tablet, it is possible to appropriately detect surface peeling based on a difference in color tone, as well as easy recognition of a colored tablet. As a result, a more accurate inspection can be performed.

  Furthermore, the tablet position information specified in one inspection can be used in the other inspection. Therefore, in the case of one inspection, information on the other inspection may be used even if the tablet position or pocket position cannot be properly detected due to the brightness difference or color of the tablet or cover film. . Therefore, it is possible to execute an accurate inspection based on more accurate position information, and it is possible to eliminate troublesomeness such as manual input. As a result, it is possible to dramatically improve inspection accuracy and inspection efficiency. In addition, since both of these inspections can be realized with a single lighting device, the cost can be reduced and the installation space can be made compact. Is also played in the same way).

Mean 2. Inspecting the sheet foreign matter / tablet foreign matter, which is performed in the production of the PTP sheet in which the tablet is accommodated in the pocket portion formed in the packaging film and the cover film is attached in a sealed state so as to close the pocket portion, and It is an illumination device for visual inspection used for inspection related to tablet surface peeling,
Inclined direction infrared light irradiation means capable of irradiating infrared light in a predetermined oblique direction from the pocket portion side to the sheet being transferred;
Shallow angle oblique direction infrared light irradiation means capable of irradiating infrared light obliquely from the pocket side to the sheet being transferred at a shallower angle than the oblique direction infrared light irradiation means;
Vertical white light irradiation means capable of irradiating white light in a substantially vertical direction from the pocket portion side to the sheet being transferred,
When inspecting the sheet foreign matter / tablet foreign matter, at least the oblique direction infrared light irradiation means and the shallow angle oblique direction infrared light irradiation means are turned on,
An illumination device for appearance inspection, which is configured to be switchable so that at least the vertical white light irradiation means is turned on in the inspection related to the tablet surface peeling.

  According to the means 2, at the time of the inspection relating to the sheet foreign matter / tablet foreign matter, at least the oblique direction infrared light irradiation means and the shallow angle oblique direction infrared light irradiation means are turned on, and in a predetermined oblique direction, At a shallow angle, infrared light is irradiated to the sheet being transferred from the pocket side. For this reason, when a tablet with a round top surface such as a lens lock or a pill is employed, the tablet is easily recognized appropriately. As a result, since the position of the tablet can be accurately grasped when the inspection relating to the sheet foreign matter / tablet foreign matter is performed, a more accurate inspection can be performed. In the inspection relating to tablet surface peeling, at least the vertical white light irradiation means is turned on, and white light is irradiated in a substantially vertical direction from the pocket portion side to the sheet being transferred. For this reason, for example, when a sugar-coated tablet or the like is adopted as a tablet, it is possible to appropriately detect surface peeling based on a difference in color tone, as well as easy recognition of a colored tablet. As a result, a more accurate inspection can be performed.

Means 3. Inspection related to tablet surface peeling, which is performed in the production of a PTP sheet in which tablets are stored in pocket portions formed in a packaging film and the cover film is attached in a sealed state so as to close the pocket portions, and poor sealing A lighting device for visual inspection used for inspection relating to
Vertical white light irradiation means capable of irradiating white light in a substantially vertical direction from the pocket portion side to the sheet being transferred;
Vertical infrared light irradiation means capable of irradiating infrared light in a substantially vertical direction from the pocket portion side to the sheet being transferred,
When inspecting the tablet surface peeling, at least the vertical white light irradiation means is turned on,
An illumination device for appearance inspection, which is configured to be switchable so that at least the vertical infrared light irradiating means is turned on at the time of inspection related to the seal failure.

  According to the means 3, at the time of the inspection relating to tablet surface peeling, at least the vertical white light irradiation means is turned on, and white light is irradiated in a substantially vertical direction from the pocket portion side to the sheet being transferred. For this reason, for example, when a sugar-coated tablet or the like is adopted as a tablet, it is possible to appropriately detect surface peeling based on a difference in color tone, as well as easy recognition of a colored tablet. As a result, a more accurate inspection can be performed. Further, at the time of the inspection related to the seal failure, at least the vertical infrared light irradiation means is turned on, and infrared light is irradiated in a substantially vertical direction from the pocket portion side to the sheet being transferred. For this reason, when there is a poorly sealed part where the cover film is not properly attached, there are no seal eyes formed at the time of attachment, and the infrared light is mainly irradiated. Thus, a defective seal portion can be specified based on the brightness difference (luminance difference). As a result, a more accurate inspection can be performed.

Means 4. Inspecting the sheet foreign matter / tablet foreign matter, which is performed in the production of the PTP sheet in which the tablet is accommodated in the pocket portion formed in the packaging film and the cover film is attached in a sealed state so as to close the pocket portion, and It is an illumination device for visual inspection used for inspection related to defective sealing,
Inclined direction infrared light irradiation means capable of irradiating infrared light in a predetermined oblique direction from the pocket portion side to the sheet being transferred;
Shallow angle oblique direction infrared light irradiation means capable of irradiating infrared light obliquely from the pocket side to the sheet being transferred at a shallower angle than the oblique direction infrared light irradiation means;
Vertical infrared light irradiation means capable of irradiating infrared light in a substantially vertical direction from the pocket portion side to the sheet being transferred,
When inspecting the sheet foreign matter / tablet foreign matter, at least the oblique direction infrared light irradiation means and the shallow angle oblique direction infrared light irradiation means are turned on,
An illumination device for appearance inspection, which is configured to be switchable so that at least the vertical infrared light irradiating means is turned on at the time of inspection related to the seal failure.

  According to the means 4, at the time of the inspection relating to the sheet foreign matter / tablet foreign matter, at least the oblique direction infrared light irradiation means and the shallow angle oblique direction infrared light irradiation means are turned on, and in a predetermined oblique direction, At a shallow angle, infrared light is irradiated to the sheet being transferred from the pocket side. For this reason, when a tablet with a round top surface such as a lens lock or a pill is employed, the tablet is easily recognized appropriately. As a result, since the position of the tablet can be accurately grasped when the inspection relating to the sheet foreign matter / tablet foreign matter is performed, a more accurate inspection can be performed. Further, at the time of the inspection related to the seal failure, at least the vertical infrared light irradiation means is turned on, and infrared light is irradiated in a substantially vertical direction from the pocket portion side to the sheet being transferred. For this reason, when there is a poorly sealed part where the cover film is not properly attached, there are no seal eyes formed at the time of attachment, and the infrared light is mainly irradiated. Thus, a defective seal portion can be specified based on the brightness difference (luminance difference). As a result, a more accurate inspection can be performed.

Means 5. Inspection for sheet foreign matter / tablet foreign matter, tablet surface, which is performed in the production of a PTP sheet in which tablets are stored in pocket portions formed in a packaging film and a cover film is attached in a sealed state so as to close the pocket portions It is an illumination device for visual inspection used for inspection related to peeling and inspection related to seal failure,
Vertical infrared light irradiation means capable of irradiating infrared light in a substantially vertical direction from the pocket portion side to the sheet being transferred;
Vertical white light irradiation means capable of irradiating white light in a substantially vertical direction from the pocket portion side to the sheet being transferred,
At the time of the inspection concerning the sheet foreign matter / tablet foreign matter and the inspection concerning the sealing failure, at least the vertical infrared light irradiation means is turned on,
An illumination device for appearance inspection, which is configured to be switchable so that at least the vertical white light irradiation means is turned on in the inspection related to the tablet surface peeling.

  According to the means 5, at the time of the inspection relating to the sheet foreign matter / tablet foreign matter and the inspection relating to the sealing failure, at least the vertical infrared light irradiation means is turned on, and the infrared ray is irradiated in a substantially vertical direction from the pocket portion side to the sheet being transferred. Light is irradiated. For this reason, it is easy to recognize a tablet appropriately, especially when a so-called “flat tablet” having a flat top surface is adopted as a tablet. As a result, since the position of the tablet can be accurately grasped when the inspection relating to the sheet foreign matter / tablet foreign matter is performed, a more accurate inspection can be performed. In addition, when there is a poorly sealed part where the cover film is not properly attached, there is no sealing eye formed at the time of attachment, and the infrared light is mainly irradiated. Thus, a defective seal portion can be specified based on the brightness difference (luminance difference). As a result, a more accurate inspection can be performed. In the inspection relating to tablet surface peeling, at least the vertical white light irradiation means is turned on, and white light is irradiated in a substantially vertical direction from the pocket portion side to the sheet being transferred. For this reason, for example, when a sugar-coated tablet or the like is adopted as a tablet, it is possible to appropriately detect surface peeling based on a difference in color tone, as well as easy recognition of a colored tablet. As a result, a more accurate inspection can be performed. In addition, since the three inspections can be realized with a single lighting device, the cost can be significantly reduced and the installation space can be made compact.

Means 6. Inspection for sheet foreign matter / tablet foreign matter, tablet surface, which is performed in the production of a PTP sheet in which tablets are stored in pocket portions formed in a packaging film and a cover film is attached in a sealed state so as to close the pocket portions It is an illumination device for visual inspection used for inspection related to peeling and inspection related to seal failure,
Inclined direction infrared light irradiation means capable of irradiating infrared light in a predetermined oblique direction from the pocket portion side to the sheet being transferred;
Shallow angle oblique direction infrared light irradiation means capable of irradiating infrared light obliquely from the pocket side to the sheet being transferred at a shallower angle than the oblique direction infrared light irradiation means;
Vertical infrared light irradiation means capable of irradiating infrared light in a substantially vertical direction from the pocket portion side to the sheet being transferred;
Vertical white light irradiation means capable of irradiating white light in a substantially vertical direction from the pocket portion side to the sheet being transferred,
When inspecting the sheet foreign matter / tablet foreign matter, at least the oblique direction infrared light irradiation means and the shallow angle oblique direction infrared light irradiation means are turned on,
When inspecting the tablet surface peeling, at least the vertical white light irradiation means is turned on,
An illumination device for appearance inspection, which is configured to be switchable so that at least the vertical infrared light irradiating means is turned on at the time of inspection related to the seal failure.

  According to the means 6, at the time of the inspection relating to the sheet foreign matter / tablet foreign matter, at least the oblique direction infrared light irradiation means and the shallow angle oblique direction infrared light irradiation means are turned on, and in a predetermined oblique direction, At a shallow angle, infrared light is irradiated to the sheet being transferred from the pocket side. For this reason, when a tablet with a round top surface such as a lens lock or a pill is employed, the tablet is easily recognized appropriately. As a result, since the position of the tablet can be accurately grasped when the inspection relating to the sheet foreign matter / tablet foreign matter is performed, a more accurate inspection can be performed. In the inspection relating to tablet surface peeling, at least the vertical white light irradiation means is turned on, and white light is irradiated in a substantially vertical direction from the pocket portion side to the sheet being transferred. For this reason, for example, when a sugar-coated tablet or the like is adopted as a tablet, it is possible to appropriately detect surface peeling based on a difference in color tone, as well as easy recognition of a colored tablet. As a result, a more accurate inspection can be performed. Further, at the time of the inspection related to the seal failure, at least the vertical infrared light irradiation means is turned on, and infrared light is irradiated in a substantially vertical direction from the pocket portion side to the sheet being transferred. For this reason, when there is a poorly sealed part where the cover film is not properly attached, there are no seal eyes formed at the time of attachment, and the infrared light is mainly irradiated. Thus, a defective seal portion can be specified based on the brightness difference (luminance difference). As a result, a more accurate inspection can be performed. In addition, since the three inspections can be realized with a single lighting device, the cost can be significantly reduced and the installation space can be made compact.

  Mean 7 The apparatus is provided with oblique infrared light irradiation means capable of irradiating infrared light in a predetermined oblique direction from the pocket portion side to the sheet being transferred. The illumination device for visual inspection according to means 1 or 5, wherein the external light irradiation means is also turned on.

  According to the means 7, when inspecting the sheet foreign matter / tablet foreign matter, the oblique direction infrared light irradiation means is also turned on, and infrared light is also emitted in a predetermined oblique direction from the pocket side to the sheet being transferred. Irradiated. For this reason, it is not restricted to a flat tablet, It can recognize and identify about most tablets including a round tablet. As a result, versatility can be further enhanced. In particular, even in the type of tablet having a secant, the adverse effect due to the secant can be prevented, and the merit is great in this sense. This effect is also exhibited in the means 2 etc. in which the oblique direction infrared light irradiation means is turned on.

  Means 8. A diagonal white light irradiation means capable of irradiating white light in a predetermined oblique direction from the pocket portion side to the sheet being transferred is provided. The illumination device for visual inspection according to any one of the means 1 to 3 and the means 4 to 7, wherein the illumination apparatus is configured to be in a lighting state.

  According to the means 8, when inspecting the tablet surface peeling, the oblique white light irradiation means is also turned on, and the sheet being transferred is irradiated with white light in a predetermined oblique direction from the pocket portion side. For this reason, in the film coat tablet etc. which have a parting line, the bad influence by the parting line can be prevented, and the merit is large in this sense.

  Means 9. It comprises shallow angle oblique direction white light irradiation means capable of irradiating white light obliquely from the pocket side to the sheet being transferred at a shallower angle than the oblique direction white light irradiation means, and relates to the tablet surface peeling. The illumination device for appearance inspection according to means 8, wherein the shallow angle oblique direction white light irradiation means is also turned on during the inspection.

  According to the means 9, when inspecting the tablet surface peeling, the shallow angle oblique direction white light irradiation means is also turned on, and the white light is emitted obliquely from the pocket portion side to the sheet being transferred at a shallower angle. Irradiated. For this reason, it is easy to specify the outline of a sugar-coated tablet with a round top surface, a flat sugar-coated tablet having a chamfered portion around the top, and the merit is great in this sense.

  Means 10. It is provided with oblique infrared light irradiation means capable of irradiating infrared light in a predetermined oblique direction from the pocket portion side to the sheet being transferred, and further in the oblique infrared light irradiation when inspecting the seal failure. The illumination device for visual inspection according to any one of means 3 to 6, wherein the means is also turned on.

  According to the means 10, when inspecting for a seal failure, the oblique direction infrared light irradiation means is also turned on, and infrared light is also irradiated in a predetermined oblique direction from the pocket portion side to the sheet being transferred. . For this reason, when taking an image for inspection, it is possible to realize an image that is suitable when the angle of view is taken into consideration. Further, when the imaging (irradiation) area is large (long) in the sheet transfer direction, it is possible to detect a sealing failure with higher accuracy.

Means 11. Inspection of sheet foreign matter / tablet foreign matter, tablet surface, which is performed in the production of a PTP sheet in which tablets are stored in a pocket portion formed in a packaging film and a cover film is attached in a sealed state so as to close the pocket portion It is an illumination device for appearance inspection used for at least two inspections among inspections related to peeling and inspections related to seal defects,
Vertical infrared light irradiation means capable of irradiating infrared light in a substantially vertical direction from the pocket portion side to the sheet being transferred;
An illumination device for appearance inspection, comprising: vertical white light irradiation means capable of irradiating white light in a substantially vertical direction from the pocket portion side to the sheet being transferred.

  According to the means 11, in the occasional inspection, the above-described effects can be achieved by appropriately switching the irradiation mode.

Means 12. Inspection for sheet foreign matter / tablet foreign matter, tablet surface, which is performed in the production of a PTP sheet in which tablets are stored in pocket portions formed in a packaging film and a cover film is attached in a sealed state so as to close the pocket portions It is an illumination device for appearance inspection used for at least two inspections among inspections related to peeling and inspections related to seal defects,
Inclined direction infrared light irradiation means capable of irradiating infrared light in a predetermined oblique direction from the pocket portion side to the sheet being transferred;
Shallow angle oblique direction infrared light irradiation means capable of irradiating infrared light obliquely from the pocket side to the sheet being transferred at a shallower angle than the oblique direction infrared light irradiation means;
An illumination device for appearance inspection, comprising: vertical white light irradiation means capable of irradiating white light in a substantially vertical direction from the pocket portion side to the sheet being transferred.

  According to the means 12, in the occasional inspection, the above-described effects can be achieved by appropriately switching the irradiation mode.

Means 13. Inspection for sheet foreign matter / tablet foreign matter, tablet surface, which is performed in the production of a PTP sheet in which tablets are stored in pocket portions formed in a packaging film and a cover film is attached in a sealed state so as to close the pocket portions It is an illumination device for appearance inspection used for at least two inspections among inspections related to peeling and inspections related to seal defects,
Inclined direction infrared light irradiation means capable of irradiating infrared light in a predetermined oblique direction from the pocket portion side to the sheet being transferred;
Shallow angle oblique direction infrared light irradiation means capable of irradiating infrared light obliquely from the pocket side to the sheet being transferred at a shallower angle than the oblique direction infrared light irradiation means;
Vertical infrared light irradiation means capable of irradiating infrared light in a substantially vertical direction from the pocket portion side to the sheet being transferred;
An illumination device for appearance inspection, comprising: vertical white light irradiation means capable of irradiating white light in a substantially vertical direction from the pocket portion side to the sheet being transferred.

  According to the means 13, in the occasional inspection, the above-described effects can be achieved by appropriately switching the irradiation mode.

Means 14. Inspection for sheet foreign matter / tablet foreign matter, tablet surface, which is performed in the production of a PTP sheet in which tablets are stored in pocket portions formed in a packaging film and a cover film is attached in a sealed state so as to close the pocket portions It is a lighting device for visual inspection that is commonly used for inspection related to peeling and inspection related to seal failure,
Inclined direction infrared light irradiation means capable of irradiating infrared light in a predetermined oblique direction from the pocket portion side to the sheet being transferred;
Shallow angle oblique direction infrared light irradiation means capable of irradiating infrared light obliquely from the pocket side to the sheet being transferred at a shallower angle than the oblique direction infrared light irradiation means;
Vertical infrared light irradiation means capable of irradiating infrared light in a substantially vertical direction from the pocket portion side to the sheet being transferred;
Oblique white light irradiation means capable of irradiating white light in a predetermined oblique direction from the pocket portion side to the sheet being transferred,
Shallow angle oblique white light irradiation means capable of irradiating white light obliquely from the pocket side to the sheet being transferred at an angle shallower than the oblique direction white light irradiation means;
Vertical white light irradiation means capable of irradiating white light in a substantially vertical direction from the pocket portion side to the sheet being transferred,
When inspecting the sheet foreign matter / tablet foreign matter, at least one of the vertical infrared light irradiation means, and the oblique direction infrared light irradiation means and the shallow angle oblique direction infrared light irradiation means is turned on,
In the inspection on the tablet surface peeling, at least the oblique direction white light irradiation means, the shallow angle oblique direction white light irradiation means, and the vertical white light irradiation means are turned on,
An illumination device for appearance inspection, which is configured to be switchable so that at least the vertical infrared light irradiating means is turned on at the time of inspection related to the seal failure.

  According to the means 14, each effect mentioned above can be shown in a superimposed manner.

  Means 15. The illumination device for appearance inspection according to any one of means 1 to 14, further comprising control means for performing switching control of whether or not each of the irradiation means is turned on.

  Means 16. The illumination device for appearance inspection according to means 15, wherein the control means can also control the light quantity of each irradiation means.

  According to the means 16, it is possible to realize a detailed inspection according to the occasional needs.

Means 17. In any of the above means,
The infrared light irradiated from the oblique direction infrared light irradiation means is mainly diffused light (partially polarized),
The infrared light irradiated from the shallow angle oblique direction infrared light irradiation means is mainly diffused light (partially polarized),
The infrared light irradiated from the vertical infrared light irradiation means is mainly parallel light;
The white light emitted from the oblique direction white light irradiation means is mainly diffused light (partially polarized),
The white light emitted from the shallow angle oblique direction white light irradiation means is mainly diffused light (partially polarized),
The white light emitted from the vertical white light irradiation means is mainly parallel light,
Among them, at least one of the illumination devices for appearance inspection is satisfied.

  According to the means 17, each effect mentioned above is show | played more reliably.

  Hereinafter, an embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings.

  In this embodiment, by mounting the appearance inspection device on the PTP packaging machine, the appearance defect (sheet foreign matter / tablet foreign matter, tablet surface peeling, and sealing failure) of the PTP sheet is inspected in the PTP packaging machine. ing. As shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, the PTP sheet 1 is attached to the container film 3 as a packaging film having a plurality of pocket portions 2 and the container film 3 so as to close the pocket portions 2. And a sealing film 4 as a covered cover film. The container film 3 is made of, for example, a relatively hard thermoplastic resin material having a predetermined rigidity, such as PP (polypropylene) or PVC (polyvinyl chloride), and has light transparency (here, transparent). ). The sealing film 4 is made of aluminum. Each pocket portion 2 contains one tablet (for example, sugar-coated tablet) 5 as an object to be filled. Further, the PTP sheet 1 has a pattern formed by a fine dent on the sealing film 4 side in the entire attachment region excluding the non-attachment portion such as the pocket portion 2. The dent is a portion where the container film 3 and the sealing film 4 are firmly sealed, and the dent appears as a predetermined lattice pattern. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 2C, the pattern is composed of a seal line 6, and a plurality of parallelogram portions having the same shape are formed by the seal line 6. In the present embodiment, the parallelogram portion has a square shape, but may be a rectangular shape, a rhombus shape, or an arbitrary parallelogram shape.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the PTP packaging machine 7 automatically packages the tablets 5 on the container film 3. Specifically, a belt-shaped resin film 8 such as PP or PVC is fed to the heating device 12 and the molding device 13 by the film feeding roll 9 and the tension rolls 10 and 11, and the pocket portion 2 filled with the tablet 5 is made of resin. The film 8 is formed. Then, when the container film 3 in which the pocket portion 2 is formed in the resin film 8 is sent to the bottom of the filling device 14, the filling device 14 automatically fills each pocket portion 2 with the tablet 5.

  On the other hand, the sealing film 4 formed in a belt shape is guided toward the film receiving roll 18 via the tension rolls 16 and 17. A heating roll 19 can be pressed against the film receiving roll 18, and a lattice-like line (not shown) formed in a slightly convex shape is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the heating roll 19. The container film 3 and the sealing film 4 are fed between the rolls 18 and 19. When both films 3 and 4 pass between both rolls 18 and 19 in a heat-pressed state, the sealing film 4 is attached to the container film 3, and the above-described lattice-shaped sealing wire is attached to the sealing film 4. 6 is formed. Thus, a long PTP film 20 in which the tablet 5 is filled in each pocket portion 2 is manufactured.

  An appearance inspection device 21 for inspecting the appearance defect of the PTP film 20 is disposed downstream of the film receiving roll 18 and the heating roll 19 along the transfer path of the PTP film 20. This appearance inspection device 21 is (1) inspection mainly intended to detect foreign matter such as hair existing between the films 3 and 4 and foreign matter on the tablet 5 (hereinafter referred to as “sheet foreign matter / tablet foreign matter”). (Hereinafter referred to as “E type inspection” for the sake of convenience), (2) inspection (hereinafter referred to as “H for convenience” for the purpose of detecting the peeling of the surface of the tablet 5 such as a sugar-coated tablet (hereinafter referred to as “tablet peeling”). (Referred to as "type inspection"), (3) inspection (hereinafter referred to as "S type inspection for convenience") for the purpose of detecting abnormalities in the attachment state of the sealing film 4 to the container film 3 (hereinafter referred to as "seal failure") ").

  After the inspection, the PTP film 20 is cut into one PTP sheet by a punching device (not shown). When a defective product is determined by the appearance inspection apparatus 21, the PTP sheet that has been determined to be defective is separately discharged by a defective sheet discharge mechanism (not shown).

  Now, the outline of the PTP packaging machine 7 is as described above. Hereinafter, the appearance inspection apparatus 21 will be described more specifically based on FIGS.

  The appearance inspection apparatus 21 includes an illuminating device 22, an E camera 23E, an H camera 23H and an S camera 23S, an image processing device 24, a monitor 25, a keyboard 26, and the like that respectively constitute imaging means.

  First, the illumination device 22 will be described in detail based on the schematic cross-sectional view shown in FIG. 4, the more realistic cross-sectional view shown in FIG. The illumination device 22 has a first irradiation means IR1 that can irradiate infrared diffused light obliquely from above to the PTP film 20 when the PTP film 20 is viewed horizontally, and the first irradiation means IR1. A second irradiating means IR2 capable of irradiating infrared diffused light from a lower (shallow) angle, a third irradiating means IR3 capable of irradiating infrared parallel light from substantially above, and the first irradiating means. A fourth irradiating means WH4 capable of irradiating white diffused light from an angle substantially equal to IR1, and an irradiating white diffused light from an angle lower than the fourth irradiating means WH4 (an angle substantially equal to the second irradiating means IR2). A fifth irradiating means WH5 capable of irradiating white parallel light from almost right above is provided. Note that the terms “diffused light” and “parallel light” mean only to the last. For example, a part of the diffused light may be mixed in the parallel light.

  In the present embodiment, the first irradiation means IR1 corresponds to the oblique direction infrared light irradiation means, the second irradiation means IR2 corresponds to the shallow angle oblique direction infrared light irradiation means, and the third irradiation means IR3 It corresponds to vertical infrared light irradiation means. The fourth irradiation means WH4 corresponds to the oblique white light irradiation means, the fifth irradiation means WH5 corresponds to the shallow angle oblique white light irradiation means, and the sixth irradiation means WH6 corresponds to the vertical white light irradiation means. It corresponds to.

  The illuminating device 22 includes a special diffuser plate 31 that is arranged in a bowl shape, can transmit light, and has no polarization dependency, and has a diffuse reflector 32 that forms a pair vertically on the outside thereof. , 33. Further, the illumination device 22 includes a parallel light filter 34 and a half mirror 35 on the upper side of the special diffusion plate 31.

  The first irradiating means IR1 and the fourth irradiating means WH4 are vertically arranged so as to sandwich the upper diffusive reflector 32 (up and down with the PTP film 20 viewed horizontally; the same applies to this paragraph, the next paragraph, and the following paragraph). It is arranged. The light from the first irradiation means IR1 and the fourth irradiation means WH4 disposed on the lower side once hits the diffuse reflection plate 32 and is reflected, passes through the special diffusion plate 31 and becomes diffused light, and becomes the PTP film 20. Is irradiated. On the other hand, the light from the first irradiation means IR1 and the fourth irradiation means WH4 disposed on the upper side is transmitted through the polarizing plate 36 (see FIG. 1) attached to the diffusing reflection plate 32, and is diffused specially. The PTP film 20 is irradiated through the plate 31 as partially polarized diffused light.

  The second irradiating means IR2 and the fifth irradiating means WH5 are arranged one above the other so as to sandwich the lower diffusing reflection plate 33 therebetween. The light from the second irradiation means IR2 and the fifth irradiation means WH5 disposed on the lower side once hits the diffuse reflection plate 33 and is reflected, transmitted through the special diffusion plate 31, and diffused light from a lower angle. Then, the PTP film 20 is irradiated. On the other hand, the light from the second irradiation means IR2 and the fifth irradiation means WH5 arranged on the upper side is transmitted through the polarizing plate 37 (see FIG. 1) attached to the diffuse reflector 33 and is diffused specially. The PTP film 20 is irradiated through the plate 31 as partially polarized diffused light.

  Both the third irradiation means IR3 and the sixth irradiation means WH6 are arranged above the first irradiation means IR1. The light from the third irradiating means IR3 and the sixth irradiating means WH6 once passes through the parallel light filter 34, hits the half mirror 35 disposed obliquely, is partially reflected, and is mainly parallel from almost right above. Light is applied to the PTP film 20 (of course, part of the diffused light is also applied).

  The presence or absence of irradiation of each of these irradiation means IR1, IR2, IR3, WH4, WH5, and WH6 is appropriately switched depending on which inspection content at that time, and details of the switching mode will be described later. To do.

  Further, the E camera 23E, the H camera 23H, and the S camera 23S constituting the image pickup means have specific sensitivities in the wavelength region of light emitted from the illumination device 22, respectively. In the present embodiment, a monochrome camera sensitive to infrared light is employed as the E camera 23E and the S camera 23S, and a color camera is employed as the H camera 23H.

  The relationship between each camera 23E, 23H, 23S and the illumination device 22 will be described. As shown in FIG. 5A, each camera 23E, 23H, 23S and the illumination device 22 are arranged on the pocket portion 2 side of the PTP film 20. Has been placed. Each of the cameras 23E, 23H, and 23S can capture an image from a direction substantially perpendicular to the plane of the PTP film 20, and light emitted from the illumination device 22 is above the half mirror 35 (PTP film 20). Taken horizontally by the cameras 23E, 23H, and 23S located above (same as in this paragraph). That is, a hot mirror 36 that allows transmission of visible light and reflects infrared light is installed above the illumination device 22. At a position corresponding to the hot mirror 36, an E camera 23E and an S camera 23S are installed. As shown in FIG. 5B, the infrared light that has been split and reflected by the hot mirror 36 is further split by the beam splitter 37. The infrared light reflected by the beam splitter 37 is imaged by the E camera 23E, and the infrared light transmitted through the beam splitter 37 is further reflected by the mirror 38 and then imaged by the S camera 23S. . 5A, a total reflection mirror 39 is installed above the hot mirror 36, and an H camera 23H is installed at a position corresponding to the total reflection mirror 39. . The visible light transmitted through the hot mirror 36 is imaged by the H camera 23H. In the present embodiment, it can be said that the cameras 23E, 23H, and 23S are collectively set in one place.

  In the present embodiment, infrared light or white light (visible light) emitted from the illumination device 22 illuminates the tablet 5 and the sealing film 4 through the container film 3 and reflects light reflected from the tablet 5 and the sealing film 4. Are configured to be two-dimensionally imaged by the cameras 23E, 23H, and 23S. Image data captured by each camera 23E, 23H, 23S is converted into a digital signal inside each camera 23E, 23H, 23S, and then input to the image processing device 24 in the form of a digital signal. Yes.

  Next, an aspect of irradiation of each irradiation means IR1, IR2, IR3, WH4, WH5, and WH6 of the illumination device 22 that is different for each inspection content will be described.

  First, in the E type inspection, as shown in FIG. 6, all of the irradiation means IR1 to IR3 related to infrared light are turned on (= irradiation state, on state), and the irradiation means WH4 to WH6 related to white light are set. All are turned off (= non-irradiation state, off state). More specifically, diffused infrared light is irradiated from the first irradiation means IR1 and the second irradiation means IR2 respectively disposed on the lower side, and thereby the edge portion of the pocket portion 2 can be identified mainly. Become. In particular, the light from the first irradiation means IR1 disposed on the lower side is effective in that the influence of the dividing line can be eliminated when the tablet 5 having a relatively deep dividing line is employed. Function.

  Furthermore, polarized diffused infrared light is irradiated from the first irradiation means IR1 and the second irradiation means IR2 disposed on the upper side, and thereby regular reflection of the top surface portion of the pocket portion 2 is suppressed. (E camera 23E is also provided with a polarizing filter for cutting the specular reflection component), and tablet 5 can be identified more clearly. Here, when PP is adopted as the container film 3 (resin film 8), specular reflection is relatively difficult to occur, whereas when PVC is adopted, regular reflection tends to occur relatively easily. In view of this point, in this embodiment, when PVC is adopted as the container film 3 (resin film 8), the first irradiation means IR1 disposed on the upper side and the case where PP is adopted and From the second irradiation means IR2, stronger polarized diffused light is irradiated.

  By adopting the irradiation mode as described above, partly polarized infrared light is irradiated during E type inspection, and foreign matter on the tablet 5 or foreign matter on the PTP film 20 (sheet portion). Etc., a difference in luminance will occur between the portion where no foreign matter or the like is present. Accordingly, foreign matter inspection (inspection of sheet foreign matter / tablet foreign matter) can be performed by appropriately using a known inspection method.

  Next, in the H type inspection, as shown in FIG. 7, the irradiation means WH4 to WH6 related to white light are all turned on (= irradiation state, on state), and the irradiation means IR1 to IR3 related to infrared light are used. Are all turned off (= non-irradiation state, off state). More specifically, the diffused white light is emitted from the fourth irradiation means WH4 and the fifth irradiation means WH5 arranged on the lower side, respectively, and thereby the edge portion of the pocket portion 2 can be identified mainly. Further, polarized diffused white light is irradiated from the fourth irradiation means WH4 and the fifth irradiation means WH5 disposed on the upper side, respectively, and thereby regular reflection of the top surface portion of the pocket portion 2 is suppressed. (The H camera 23H is also provided with a polarizing filter for cutting the specular reflection component), and the tablet 5 can be identified more clearly. In the present embodiment, when PVC is adopted as the container film 3 (resin film 8) even in the H type inspection, the fourth irradiation means arranged on the upper side than the case where PP is adopted. Stronger polarized diffused light is emitted from WH4 and the fifth irradiation means WH5.

  Due to the above-described irradiation mode (although there is a difference between infrared light and white light, it is common with E type in terms of irradiation method), the H type inspection was partially polarized When white light is irradiated and a sugar-coated tablet is employed as the tablet 5 and there is peeling of the sugar-coated part (surface), a color tone difference (luminance difference) occurs between the peeling part and the sugar-coated part. . Thereby, the tablet surface peeling can be inspected by appropriately using a known inspection method.

  Further, in the S type inspection, as shown in FIG. 8, only the first irradiation means IR1 and the third irradiation means IR3 related to infrared light are turned on (= irradiation state, on state), and other than that The irradiation means IR2, WH4 to WH6 are all turned off (= non-irradiation state, off state). More specifically, when inspecting for a defective seal, the inspection is performed after the seal is raised, and as a method for raising the seal, it is considered effective to capture specularly reflected light. In view of this point, the present embodiment mainly irradiates regular reflection light from the third irradiation means IR3. Further, the S camera 23S has an angle of view, and in consideration of this, the infrared light from the first irradiation means IR1 is also irradiated. However, the S camera 23S is not provided with a polarizing filter, and in this sense, a configuration that positively captures the regularly reflected light component is employed.

  With the above-described irradiation mode, specular reflection infrared light is mainly irradiated in the S-type inspection. At this time, the irradiated light is regularly reflected at the planar portion of the sealing film 4 and diffusely reflected at the edge portion (the portion where the dent is present). For this reason, in the image data imaged by the S camera 23S, the brightness of the seal line 6 is lower than the brightness of the parallelogram part (inner part) surrounded by the seal line 6, and the parallelogram part. And the seal line 6 are increased in contrast. Due to the lightness difference, a seal inspection can be inspected by appropriately using a known inspection method. In the case where the container film 4 has a printed part such as a product type, since the printed part easily transmits near infrared light or infrared light, the difference in brightness between the container film 4 itself and the printed part is extremely small. Become. As a result, in this embodiment, it is possible to perform inspection while ignoring the printing unit.

  The image processing apparatus 24 described above includes image memories 41E, 41H, 41S, masking means 42E, 42H, 42S, binarization means 43E, 43H, 43S, and a determination memory 44E corresponding to the cameras 23E, 23H, 23S. 44H, 44S, visual inspection result and statistical data memories 45E, 45H, 45S, camera timing control means 46E, 46H, 46S, a CPU and an input / output interface 47, and the like. In addition, it is possible to carry out judgment of appearance defects (each inspection).

  The two-dimensional image data captured by each camera 23E, 23H, 23S is converted into a digital signal and then stored in each corresponding image memory 41E, 41H, 41S.

  Each image data is subjected to masking processing by the corresponding masking means 42E, 42H, 42S at the time of inspection, and is stored again in each image memory 41E, 41H, 41S. Similarly, the binarizing means 43E. , 43H, and 43S and then stored again in the image memories 41E, 41H, and 41S.

  The CPU and the input / output interface 47 execute various processing programs while using the contents of the determination memories 44E, 44H, 44S, etc., and send control signals to the PTP packaging machine 7 or operate from the PTP packaging machine 7. It is for transmitting and receiving various signals such as signals. Thereby, for example, the defective sheet discharge mechanism of the PTP packaging machine 7 can be controlled. The CPU and input / output interface 47 also has a function of sending display data to the monitor 25. With this function, binary or shaded image data, appearance inspection results, and the like can be displayed on the monitor 25. Further, the CPU and input / output interface 47 has a function of inputting data from the keyboard 26.

  The appearance inspection result and statistical data memories 45E, 45H, and 45S store data such as coordinates relating to image data, appearance inspection result data, and statistical data obtained by probabilistically processing the appearance inspection result data. . These appearance inspection result data and statistical data can be appropriately displayed on the monitor 25 based on the control of the CPU and the input / output interface 47. Further, the CPU and the input / output interface 47 can send a control signal to the PTP packaging machine 7 based on the appearance inspection result data and the statistical data.

  The camera timing control means 46E, 46H, 46S controls the timing at which image data captured by the cameras 23E, 23H, 23 is taken into the image memories 41E, 41H, 41S. Such timing is controlled based on a signal from an encoder (not shown) provided in the PTP packaging machine 7, and each time the PTP film 20 is fed by a predetermined amount, a sheet unit by each camera 23E, 23H, 23S (for example, a punched PTP sheet unit). An image is captured (photographing).

  For example, in the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 10, shooting is performed by the S camera 23S at a timing T3 (referred to as a center timing TC for convenience) when a predetermined sheet unit moves to the center of the illumination device 22 (of course. At this time, the irradiation mode is used for S-type inspection). In addition, at the timing T1 (for example, T1 = TC−25 msec) somewhat earlier than the center timing TC, an image is taken by the E camera 23E targeting the tablet portion (of course, at this time, irradiation for E type inspection is performed). And at the timing T2 (for example, T2 = T1 + 10 msec), an image is taken by the H camera 23H targeting the tablet portion (of course, at this time, the irradiation mode is used for the H type inspection). Further, at the timing T4 (for example, T4 = TC + 25 msec) somewhat later than the center timing TC, photographing is performed by the E camera 23E targeting the sheet portion (of course, in this case, the irradiation mode for the E type inspection and Then, at timing T5 (for example, T5 = T4 + 10 msec), shooting is performed by the H camera 23H targeting the sheet portion (of course, in this case, an irradiation mode for H type inspection is used). As described above, in this embodiment, the cameras 23E, 23H, and 23S that are located at substantially the same location are about to capture the same location, but since there is a slight difference in the shooting timing, the PTP film 20 to be captured is captured. A slight difference may occur in the sheet unit position.

  Originally, the H camera 23H is a color camera, and the H type inspection is mainly for the surface peeling inspection of sugar-coated tablets and the like, but the E type inspection cannot be fully inspected. It is also true that abnormalities appearing in various colors can be detected. In view of this point, in the present embodiment, the imaging for the sheet portion is performed even for the H camera 23H, and the sheet portion is also inspected even for the H type inspection.

  Next, the procedure of appearance inspection (E type inspection, H type inspection, S type inspection) of the PTP film 20 will be described.

  First, “S type inspection” whose main purpose is to detect a seal failure will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. Prior to the inspection, an “S type setting routine (sample mode)” as shown in FIG. 11A is executed prior to the inspection. In this routine, first, in step S101, first, a gray image of a non-defective product (PTP film 20 that is clearly not defective) is acquired. Next, in step S102, pocket type position data (coordinate data) of the E type or H type is moved by the amount of image shift. Here, it is assumed that the pocket portion position data for the E type or H type is used. In the irradiation mode in the S type inspection, the position of the pocket portion 2 is grasped because the regular reflection light is mainly emitted. This is because it is difficult. However, as described above, there is a time difference between the imaging timing of the S-type inspection and the imaging timing of the E-type or H-type inspection. Therefore, in this step S102, when adopting the E-type or H-type pocket portion position data, the data is moved by the shift amount of the image.

  Next, in step S103, various settings are performed and display processing on the monitor 25 is executed. Here, the various settings mainly include masking processing of the pocket portion 2 when performing the S-type inspection. That is, in the masking process, the pocket portion position data moved by the shift amount in step S102 is used. The masking data set here is used for inspection in the S type inspection routine described below.

  Next, the S type inspection will be described. As shown in “S type inspection routine (inspection mode)” in FIG. 11B, first, in the step S201, a grayscale image of the PTP film 20 to be inspected is acquired. Next, in step S202, the pocket position data (coordinate data) of the E type or H type is moved by the amount of image shift. In step S202, as in step S102, the pocket position data of the E type or H type is used, and the reason is as described above. Also, the movement by the amount of deviation is due to the reason described above.

  Thereafter, in step S203, various inspections and determinations are performed, display processing on the monitor 25 is executed, and the subsequent processing is temporarily ended. Here, various inspections and determinations mainly include a seal defect inspection. The detailed description of the seal defect inspection is omitted here, but the masking data set in step S103 is used for the inspection. For example, in the captured grayscale image data, the brightness of the seal line 6 is lowered, and the brightness of the parallelogram part surrounded by the seal line 6 is increased. On the other hand, when there is an abnormality such as poor attachment or wrinkles on the container film 4 or foreign matter adhering to the container film 4, a portion with low brightness other than the position of the seal line 6 occurs. Or the gap between the seal lines 6 is disturbed, or the seal lines 6 are not formed. Accordingly, the brightness of the seal line 6 and the wrinkle portion is low, and therefore, a seal failure can be inspected by appropriately detecting this. Here, the portion corresponding to the pocket portion 2 to which the container film 3 and the sealing film 4 are not attached has no significance in performing a seal failure inspection, and prevents the proper inspection from being hindered. Therefore, this portion is masked. In the present embodiment, masking can be appropriately performed by performing the above processing.

  Next, according to the flowcharts of FIGS. 12 to 15, “H type inspection” mainly for detection of tablet surface peeling (peeling of sugar-coated part for sugar-coated tablets, peeling of film part for film-coated tablets). explain. As described above, in the present embodiment, not only the tablet part but also the sheet part is inspected even in the H type inspection. First, the inspection of the tablet part will be described. In the H-type inspection, an “H-type tablet part setting routine (sample mode)” as shown in FIG. 12 is executed in advance prior to the inspection of the tablet part.

  In this routine, in step S301, first, a color image of a non-defective product (PTP film 20 that is clearly not defective) is acquired. Next, in step S302, it is determined whether or not the tablet / pocket position is set for the H type. Here, the position of the tablet / pocket portion can be grasped by the H type or the E type, which will be described later, but the ease of grasping differs depending on the irradiation mode at that time, so it is determined here. It is going to be. If it is determined that the tablet / pocket position should be set in the H type, in step S303, the non-defective color image acquired in step S301 is binarized with luminance and RGB ratio, and the binarized data is stored in the image memory. Store in 41H.

  Next, a labeling process (a lump process) is performed in step S304, and a lump whose area value is less than the reference tablet area Lo is removed in step S305. Thereafter, in step S306, it is determined whether or not the number of lumps and the number of tablets in the sheet unit match. If the numbers do not match, the routine is temporarily terminated. On the other hand, when the number of lumps coincides with the number of tablets, in step S307, the pocket window PW and the tablet follow-up window JTW are set for the center of gravity position of each lumps. In addition, tablet center-of-gravity coordinate average HAV (xy average coordinate of each center-of-gravity position of tablet 5 in sheet unit) and each pocket position with respect to the tablet center-of-gravity coordinate average are stored (stored). Here, as shown in FIG. 2D, the pocket window PW is a portion in which the portion corresponding to the outer ring portion of the pocket portion 2 is set as a circular frame, and at least the pocket portion 2 is defined. The size is included. The tablet following window JTW is set as a rectangular frame for capturing the tablet 5 and has a size including at least the pocket portion 2. The tablet 5 is searched for within the range of the tablet follow-up window JTW.

  Next, in step S308, inclination correction of the pocket window PW is executed. More specifically, the PTP film 20 may be transported in an inclined state. In this case, the center of the pocket portion 2 and the center of the tablet 5 do not always coincide with each other, and there is a case where the center is shifted in a predetermined direction. That is, although the position is automatically set based on the tablet 5 in the above step S107, if the center of the pocket portion 2 and the center of the tablet 5 are shifted in the actual image, the entire pocket window PW is manually moved. Movement correction is performed in a predetermined direction (for example, the width direction). Thereafter, various settings are performed in step S309, and display processing on the monitor 25 is executed. Here, the various settings mainly include confirmation processing of the pocket window PW and the tablet follow-up window JTW when performing the H-type inspection. The pocket window PW and the tablet follow-up window JTW determined (set) here are used for inspection in the H-type tablet part inspection routine described below.

  On the other hand, when a negative determination is made in step S302, the pocket position position (coordinate data) image of the E type is shifted in order to use the pocket position position data (coordinate data) of the E type in step S310. The amount is moved by the amount, and then the process proceeds to step S309. Note that the movement by the shift amount is to correct the shift amount due to the above-described difference in imaging timing.

  Next, the H type tablet part inspection will be described. As shown in “H-type tablet part inspection routine (inspection mode)” in FIG. 13, at the time of inspection, first, in step S401, a color image of the PTP film 20 to be inspected is acquired. Next, in step S402, it is determined whether or not the tablet / pocket position is set for the H type. If it is determined that the tablet / pocket position should be set in the H type, in step S403, the inspection color image acquired in step S401 is binarized with luminance and RGB ratio, and the binarized data is converted into the binarized data. Store in the image memory 41H.

  Next, a labeling process (block process) is performed in step S404, and a block included in the tablet following window JTW region is extracted in step S405. Here, when the inspection is the first time, the tablet follow-up window JTW set in the “H type tablet part setting routine (sample mode)” is adopted, and a lump contained in the region is extracted. On the other hand, when the inspection is performed for the second time or later, the tablet follow-up window JTW set last time is adopted. Then, in the subsequent step S406, a lump whose area value is less than the reference tablet area Lo is removed. Thereafter, in step S407, inspection and determination regarding surface peeling are performed. For the inspection of tablet surface peeling, specific description is omitted here. For example, in the captured color image data, for example, a colored (for example, yellow) sugar-coated tablet, the sugar-coated part is yellow, and the peeled part Becomes white and the color tone is different. Therefore, if there is peeling, the shape and area of the lump portion will be different from the normal one, and by detecting this appropriately, abnormalities such as tablet surface peeling can be inspected. Of course, in the inspection, in addition to peeling, an inspection related to the area and shape of the tablet 5, presence / absence of foreign matter, and stamping may be performed.

  Next, processing for resetting the pocket window PW and the tablet follow-up window JTW is performed in the processing of Steps S408 to S410 for the next inspection or other inspections. That is, in step S408, the center-of-gravity position of the mass determined to be non-defective in step S407 is obtained. In the subsequent step S409, the coordinate average of the center of gravity position of the non-defective tablet (however, in the case of a defective tablet or missing tablet, the previous center of gravity position of the non-defective tablet is applied) is obtained. The difference α from the tablet center-of-gravity coordinate average HAV (step S307) stored in step S307 is obtained. In step S410, the pocket window PW and tablet follow-up window JTW (step S307) set in the “H type tablet part setting routine (sample mode)” are set by moving by the difference α. Thereafter, display processing on the monitor 25 is executed in step S411, and the subsequent processing is temporarily ended.

  On the other hand, if a negative determination is made in step S402, the tablet / pocket position data (coordinate data) for the E type is used to use the tablet / pocket position data (coordinate data) for the E type in step S412. ) The image is moved by the image shift amount, and then the process proceeds to step S411. Note that the movement by the shift amount is to correct the shift amount due to the above-described difference in imaging timing.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, by performing the above processing, it is possible to appropriately specify the position of the tablet / pocket portion, and it is possible to realize an accurate inspection. Even when the setting cannot be made with the H type, since the E type tablet / pocket position data is used, the inspection can be accurately performed even in such a case.

  Next, the inspection of the sheet portion of “H type inspection” will be described. When the H type sheet portion is inspected, an “H type sheet portion setting routine (sample mode)” as shown in FIG. 14 is executed in advance prior to the inspection.

  In this routine, in step S501, first, a color image of a non-defective product (PTP film 20 that is clearly not defective) is acquired. Next, in step S502, it is determined whether or not the tablet / pocket position is set for the H type. If it is determined that the tablet / pocket position should be set in the H type, it is determined in step S503 whether the pocket position is to be calculated from the captured image of the sheet. That is, it is determined whether or not the tablet position (pocket position) can be specified from the photographed image for the sheet portion. If an affirmative determination is made, the non-defective color image acquired in step S501 is binarized with luminance and RGB ratio in step S504 to use the captured image for the sheet portion, and the binarized data is converted into the binarized data. Store in the image memory 41H.

  Next, a labeling process (a lump process) is performed in step S505, and a lump whose area value is less than the reference tablet area Lo is removed in step S506. Thereafter, in step S507, it is determined whether or not the number of lumps and the number of tablets in units of sheets match. If they do not match, the routine is temporarily terminated. On the other hand, when the number of lumps coincides with the number of tablets, in step S508, the pocket window PW and the tablet follow-up window JTW are set for the center of gravity position of each lumps. In addition, tablet center-of-gravity coordinate average HAV (xy average coordinate of each center-of-gravity position of tablet 5 in sheet unit) and each pocket position with respect to the tablet center-of-gravity coordinate average are stored (stored).

  Next, in step S509, inclination correction of the pocket window PW is executed. That is, when the center of the pocket portion 2 and the center of the tablet 5 are shifted in the actual image, the movement of the entire pocket window PW is manually corrected in a predetermined direction (for example, the width direction). Thereafter, in step S510, various settings are performed, and display processing on the monitor 25 is executed. Here, the various settings mainly include confirmation processing of the pocket window PW and the tablet follow-up window JTW when performing the H-type inspection. The pocket window PW and the tablet follow-up window JTW determined (set) here are used for inspection in the H type sheet portion inspection routine described below.

  On the other hand, if a negative determination is made in step S503, that is, if it is determined that the tablet position (pocket position) cannot be specified in the captured image for the sheet portion, the captured image for the tablet portion should be used. In step S511, the pocket part position data obtained by the tablet part setting routine (FIG. 12) is moved by the amount of deviation of the photographing timing and stored as pocket part position data, and the process proceeds to step S510.

  On the other hand, when a negative determination is made in step S502, the pocket portion position data (see FIG. 18) in the E type (see FIG. 18) is used in order to use the pocket portion position data (coordinate data) in the E type described later in step S512. The coordinate data is moved by the image shift amount, and then the process proceeds to step S509. Note that the movement by the shift amount is to correct the shift amount due to the above-described difference in imaging timing.

  Next, the H type sheet portion inspection will be described. As shown in the “H type sheet portion inspection routine (inspection mode)” in FIG. 15, when inspecting, first, in step S601, a color image of the PTP film 20 to be inspected is acquired. Next, in step S602, it is determined whether or not the tablet / pocket position is set for the H type. If it is determined that the tablet / pocket position should be set in the H type, it is determined in step S603 whether the pocket position is to be calculated from the captured image of the sheet. That is, it is determined whether or not the tablet position (pocket position) can be specified from the photographed image for the sheet portion. If an affirmative determination is made, in order to use the captured image for the sheet portion, in step S604, the inspection color image acquired in step S601 is binarized with the luminance and the RGB ratio, and the binarized data is converted into the binarized data. Store in the image memory 41H.

  Next, in step S605, a labeling process (block process) is performed, and in step S606, a block included in the tablet following window JTW region is extracted. Here, when the inspection is the first time, the tablet follow-up window JTW set in the “H type sheet portion setting routine (sample mode)” is adopted, and a lump contained in the region is extracted. On the other hand, when the inspection is performed for the second time or later, the tablet follow-up window JTW set last time is adopted. In subsequent step S607, a lump having an area value less than the reference tablet area Lo is removed.

  Thereafter, in step S608, the barycentric position of the lump is obtained for the pocket part position determined to be non-defective in the tablet part inspection routine. However, when there are a plurality of chunks, the chunk first found in the labeling process is given priority. In subsequent step S609, the coordinate average of the center of gravity position of the non-defective tablet pocket portion (however, in the case of a defective tablet or missing tablet, the previous center of gravity position of the non-defective tablet pocket portion is applied) is obtained, and the “H type sheet portion setting routine ( The difference α from the tablet center-of-gravity coordinate average HAV (step S508) stored in “sample mode)” is obtained. In step S610, the pocket window PW and tablet follow-up window JTW (step S508) set in the “H type sheet portion setting routine (sample mode)” are set by moving by the difference α. Thereafter, in step S611, inspection and determination are performed, display processing on the monitor 25 is executed, and the subsequent processing is temporarily ended.

  In the inspection and determination here, the pocket portion is masked, and then the foreign matter inspection of the sheet portion is performed. Although specific description of the sheet portion foreign matter inspection is omitted here, for example, in the captured color image data, for example, when a foreign matter different from the normal sheet portion is present, the color tone different from that of the normal sheet portion is obtained. Part may be detected. Therefore, by performing such detection, it is possible to perform sheet part inspection peculiar to a color image, and by appropriately performing this, it is possible to inspect abnormality of a peculiar sheet part even in H type inspection.

  On the other hand, when a negative determination is made in step S603, that is, when it is determined that the tablet position (pocket position) cannot be specified in the captured image for the sheet portion, the captured image for the tablet portion should be used. In step S612, the pocket portion position data obtained in the tablet portion setting routine (FIG. 13) is moved by the shift amount of the photographing timing and stored as pocket portion position data, and the process proceeds to step S611.

  On the other hand, if a negative determination is made in step S602, the tablet / pocket position data (coordinate data) for the E type is used to use the tablet / pocket position data (coordinate data) for the E type in step S613. ) The image is moved by the image shift amount (see FIG. 19), and then the process proceeds to step S611. Note that the movement by the shift amount is to correct the shift amount due to the above-described difference in imaging timing.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, by performing the above-described processing, the pocket portion position can be appropriately specified, and an accurate inspection can be realized after performing an accurate masking process. Even when the setting cannot be made with the H type, since the E type tablet / pocket position data is used, the inspection can be accurately performed even in such a case.

  Next, “E type inspection” which is mainly intended to detect sheet foreign matter / tablet foreign matter will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. In the present embodiment, the tablet part and the sheet part are inspected also in the E type inspection. First, the inspection of the tablet part will be described. In the E type inspection, an “E type tablet part setting routine (sample mode)” as shown in FIG. 16 is executed in advance prior to the inspection of the tablet part.

  In this routine, in step S701, first, a gray image of a non-defective product (PTP film 20 that is clearly not defective) is acquired. Next, in step S702, it is determined whether or not the tablet / pocket position is set for the E type. As described above, the position of the tablet / pocket portion can be grasped by the E type or the H type described above, and the ease of grasping varies depending on the irradiation mode and the like at that time. Based on this point, the same determination is made in step S702. If it is determined that the tablet / pocket position should be set in the E type, in step S703, the non-defective gray image acquired in step S701 is binarized at the tablet detection level, and the binarized data is stored in the image memory 41E. To store.

  Next, a labeling process (a lump process) is performed in step S704, and a lump whose area value is less than the reference tablet area Lo is removed in step S705. Thereafter, in step S706, it is determined whether or not the number of lumps and the number of tablets in the sheet unit match. If they do not match, the routine is once ended. On the other hand, when the number of lumps and the number of tablets match, in step S707, the pocket window PW and the tablet follow-up window JTW are set with respect to the center of gravity position of each lumps. In addition, tablet center-of-gravity coordinate average HAV (xy average coordinate of each center-of-gravity position of tablet 5 in sheet unit) and each pocket position with respect to the tablet center-of-gravity coordinate average are stored (stored).

  Next, in step S708, inclination correction of the pocket window PW is executed. Thereafter, various settings are performed in step S709, and display processing on the monitor 25 is executed. Here, the various settings mainly include determination processing of the pocket window PW and the tablet follow-up window JTW when performing the E type inspection. The pocket window PW and tablet follow-up window JTW determined (set) here are used for inspection in the E-type tablet part inspection routine described below.

  On the other hand, if a negative determination is made in step S702, in order to use the H-type tablet / pocket position data (coordinate data) in step S710, the H-type tablet / pocket position data (coordinate data) is used. ) The image is moved by the image shift amount, and then the process proceeds to step S710. Note that the movement by the shift amount is to correct the shift amount due to the above-described difference in imaging timing.

  Next, the E type tablet part inspection will be described. As shown in “E type tablet part inspection routine (inspection mode)” in FIG. 17, at the time of inspection, first, in step S801, a grayscale image of the PTP film 20 to be inspected is acquired. Next, in step S802, it is determined whether or not the tablet / pocket position is set for the E type. If it is determined that the position of the tablet / pocket portion should be set to E type, in step S803, the inspection grayscale image acquired in step S801 is binarized at the tablet detection level (used for tablet inspection described later). ), The binarized data is stored in the image memory 41E. At the same time, the inspection grayscale image acquired in step S801 is binarized at the tablet foreign matter detection level (used for powder biting inspection described later), and the binarized data is stored in the image memory 41E.

  Next, in step S804, a labeling process (block process) is performed, and in step S805, a block included in the tablet following window JTW region is extracted. Here, when the inspection is the first time, the tablet follow-up window JTW set in the “E type tablet part setting routine (sample mode)” is adopted, and a lump contained in the region is extracted. On the other hand, when the inspection is performed for the second time or later, the tablet follow-up window JTW set last time is adopted. In subsequent step S806, a lump having an area value less than the reference tablet area Lo is removed. Thereafter, in step S807, inspection and determination regarding the tablet are executed. Although specific description is omitted here for the inspection of the tablet, for example, when a foreign substance or the like is attached to the tablet, the luminance (degree of shading) is different from that of the part not attached. Therefore, it is possible to inspect abnormalities such as adhesion of foreign matter on the tablet by appropriately detecting the presence of such foreign matter. Of course, in the inspection, in addition to adhesion of foreign substances, inspection regarding the area, shape, seal, etc. of the tablet 5 may be performed.

  Next, processing for resetting the pocket window PW and the tablet follow-up window JTW is performed in the processing of step S808 to step S810 for the subsequent inspection or other inspections. That is, in step S808, the barycentric position of the mass determined to be non-defective in step S707 is obtained. In the subsequent step S809, the coordinate average of the center of gravity position of the non-defective tablet (however, in the case of a defective tablet or missing tablet, the previous center of gravity position of the non-defective tablet is applied) is obtained. The difference α from the tablet center-of-gravity coordinate average HAV (step S707) stored in step S707 is obtained. In step S810, the pocket window PW and tablet follow-up window JTW (step S707) set in the “E type tablet part setting routine (sample mode)” are moved and set by the difference α. Thereafter, in step S811, special inspection / determination of sheet biting is performed, display processing on the monitor 25 is performed, and the subsequent processing is temporarily ended. The sheet is inspected in the routine described above, and the reason why the sheet biting is inspected here is as follows. That is, in the sheet inspection described later, generally dark hair, black spots, etc. can be inspected than the sheet, but it is difficult to detect the presence of a relatively bright object such as tablet powder. Therefore, in step S811, the sheet biting is specifically inspected. Thereby, even when powder biting or the like occurs in the sheet portion, it can be properly detected.

  On the other hand, if a negative determination is made in step S802, the H-type tablet / pocket position data (coordinate data) is used to use the H-type tablet / pocket position data (coordinate data) in step S812. ) The image is moved by the image shift amount, and then the process proceeds to step S811. Note that the movement by the shift amount is to correct the shift amount due to the above-described difference in imaging timing.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, by performing the above processing, it is possible to appropriately specify the position of the tablet / pocket portion, and it is possible to realize an accurate inspection. Further, even if it cannot be set in the E type, since the H type tablet / pocket position data is used, even in such a case, the inspection can be performed accurately.

  Next, the inspection of the sheet part of “E type inspection” will be described. When inspecting the E type sheet portion, an “E type sheet portion setting routine (sample mode)” as shown in FIG. 18 is executed in advance prior to the inspection.

  In this routine, first, in step S901, a gray image of a non-defective product (PTP film 20 that is clearly not defective) is acquired. Next, in step S902, it is determined whether or not the tablet / pocket position is set for the E type. If it is determined that the tablet / pocket position should be set in the E type, it is determined in step S903 whether the pocket position is to be calculated from the captured image of the sheet. That is, it is determined whether or not the tablet position (pocket position) can be specified from the photographed image for the sheet portion. If the determination is affirmative, in order to use the photographed image for the sheet portion, in step S904, the non-defective gray image acquired in step S901 is converted to a tablet extraction level (a luminance level sufficient to extract the tablet 5). Binarization is performed, and the binarized data is stored in the image memory 41E.

  Next, in step S905, labeling processing (lump processing) is performed, and in step S906, a lump whose area value is less than the reference tablet area Lo is removed. Thereafter, in step S907, it is determined whether or not the number of lumps and the number of tablets in the sheet unit match. If the numbers do not match, the routine is temporarily terminated. On the other hand, when the number of lumps and the number of tablets match, in step S908, the pocket window PW and the tablet follow-up window JTW are set for the center of gravity position of each lumps. In addition, tablet center-of-gravity coordinate average HAV (xy average coordinate of each center-of-gravity position of tablet 5 in sheet unit) and each pocket position with respect to the tablet center-of-gravity coordinate average are stored (stored).

  Next, in step S909, inclination correction of the pocket window PW is executed. Thereafter, various settings are performed in step S910, and display processing on the monitor 25 is executed. Here, the various settings mainly include determination processing of the pocket window PW and the tablet follow-up window JTW when performing the E type inspection. The pocket window PW and tablet follow-up window JTW determined (set) here are used for inspection in the E type sheet portion inspection routine described below.

  On the other hand, if a negative determination is made in step S903, that is, if it is determined that the tablet position (pocket position) cannot be specified in the captured image for the sheet portion, the captured image for the tablet portion should be used. In step S911, the pocket portion position data obtained in the tablet portion setting routine (FIG. 16) is moved by the amount of deviation of the photographing timing and stored as pocket portion position data, and the process proceeds to step S910.

  On the other hand, if a negative determination is made in step S902, the pocket portion position data (see FIG. 14) in the H type (see FIG. 14) is used to use the pocket portion position data (coordinate data) in the H type described later in step S912. The coordinate data is moved by the image shift amount, and then the process proceeds to step S910. Note that the movement by the shift amount is to correct the shift amount due to the above-described difference in imaging timing.

  Next, the E type sheet portion inspection will be described. As shown in the “E type sheet portion inspection routine (inspection mode)” in FIG. 19, at the time of inspection, first, in step S1001, a grayscale image of the PTP film 20 to be inspected is acquired. Next, in step S1002, it is determined whether or not the tablet / pocket position is set for the E type. If it is determined that the tablet / pocket position should be set in the E type, it is determined in step S1003 whether or not the pocket position is to be calculated from the sheet image. That is, it is determined whether or not the tablet position (pocket position) can be specified from the photographed image for the sheet portion. If an affirmative determination is made, in order to use the captured image for the sheet portion, in step S1004, the inspection grayscale image acquired in step S1001 is binarized at the tablet extraction level, and the binarized data is converted into an image. Store in the memory 41E.

  Next, in step S1005, labeling processing (lump processing) is performed, and in step S1006, a lump included in the tablet following window JTW region is extracted. Here, when the inspection is the first time, the tablet follow-up window JTW set in the “E type sheet portion setting routine (sample mode)” is adopted, and a lump contained in the region is extracted. On the other hand, when the inspection is performed for the second time or later, the tablet follow-up window JTW set last time is adopted. In subsequent step S1007, a lump whose area value is less than the reference tablet area Lo is removed.

  Thereafter, in step S1008, the center-of-gravity position of the lump is obtained for the pocket position determined as non-defective in the tablet part inspection routine. However, when there are a plurality of chunks, the chunk first found in the labeling process is given priority. In the subsequent step S1009, a coordinate average of the center of gravity position of the non-defective tablet pocket portion (however, in the case of a defective tablet or missing tablet, the previous center of gravity position of the non-defective tablet pocket portion is applied) is obtained. The difference α from the tablet center-of-gravity coordinate average HAV (step S908) stored in the “sample mode)” is obtained. In step S1010, the pocket window PW and the tablet following window JTW (step S908) set in the “E type sheet portion setting routine (sample mode)” are moved and set by the difference α. Thereafter, in step S1011, inspection and determination are performed, display processing on the monitor 25 is executed, and the subsequent processing is temporarily ended.

  In the inspection and determination here, the pocket portion is masked, and then the foreign matter inspection of the sheet portion is performed. Although specific description of the sheet portion foreign matter inspection is omitted here, for example, in the captured grayscale image data, if there is a dark foreign matter different from the normal sheet portion, for example, it is darker than the normal sheet portion. Part may be detected. Therefore, by performing such detection, it is possible to perform sheet portion inspection regarding foreign matters such as hair and black spots, and by appropriately performing this, E type inspection can be performed more accurately.

  On the other hand, if a negative determination is made in step S1003, that is, if it is determined that the tablet position (pocket position) cannot be specified in the captured image for the sheet portion, the captured image for the tablet portion should be used. In step S1012, the pocket portion position data obtained in the tablet portion inspection routine (FIG. 17) is moved by the amount of deviation of the photographing timing and stored as pocket portion position data, and the process proceeds to step S1011.

  On the other hand, if a negative determination is made in step S1002, the H-type tablet / pocket position data (coordinate data) is used to use the H-type tablet / pocket position data (coordinate data) in step S1013. ) The image is moved by the image shift amount, and then the process proceeds to step S1011. Note that the movement by the shift amount is to correct the shift amount due to the above-described difference in imaging timing.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, by performing the above-described processing, the pocket portion position can be appropriately specified, and an accurate inspection can be realized after performing an accurate masking process. Further, even if it cannot be set in the E type, since the H type tablet / pocket position data is used, even in such a case, the inspection can be performed accurately.

  As described above in detail, according to the present embodiment, with one appearance inspection device 21, inspection regarding sheet foreign matter / tablet foreign matter (E type inspection), inspection regarding tablet surface peeling (H type inspection), and sealing are performed. A defect (S type inspection) is performed. That is, three inspections of E type, H type, and S type can be realized by switching the irradiation mode of the single illumination device 22. For this reason, significant cost reduction and downsizing of the installation space can be achieved.

  In particular, at the time of E type inspection, at least the third irradiation means IR3 is turned on, and the PTP film 20 being transferred is irradiated with infrared light mainly parallel in a substantially vertical direction from the pocket portion 2 side. For this reason, especially when a so-called “flat tablet” having a flat top surface is adopted as the tablet 5, the tablet 5 is easily recognized appropriately. As a result, since the position of the tablet 5 can be accurately grasped when performing the E type inspection, a more accurate inspection can be performed. In the E type inspection, the first and second irradiation means IR1 and IR2 are also turned on, and are partially polarized with respect to the PTP film 20 in a predetermined oblique direction and at a shallower angle. Diffused infrared light is irradiated. For this reason, even when a tablet 5 having a round top surface, such as a lens tablet or a pill, is employed (in short, regarding most tablets), the tablet 5 is easily recognized properly. As a result, since the position of the tablet 5 can be accurately grasped when performing the E type inspection, a more accurate inspection can be performed. In particular, even in the tablet 5 of the type having a secant, the adverse effect due to the secant can be prevented, and the merit is great in this sense.

  In the H type inspection, at least the sixth irradiating means WH6 is turned on, and the PTP film 20 being transferred is irradiated with white light mainly parallel in a substantially vertical direction from the pocket portion 2 side. For this reason, for example, when a colored tablet 5 is easily recognized properly, when a sugar-coated tablet or the like is adopted as the tablet 5, it is possible to properly detect surface peeling based on a difference in color tone. . As a result, a more accurate inspection can be performed. In the H type inspection, the fourth irradiating means WH4 is also turned on, and the partially polarized diffused white light is mainly irradiated. In this sense, the benefits are great. In addition, the fifth irradiation means WH5 is also turned on. For this reason, it is easy to specify the outline of a sugar-coated tablet with a round top surface, a flat sugar-coated tablet having a chamfered portion around the top, and the merit is great in this sense.

  In the S type inspection, at least the third irradiation means IR3 is turned on, and the PTP film 20 being transferred is irradiated with infrared light mainly parallel in a substantially vertical direction from the pocket portion 2 side. For this reason, when there is a poor seal portion where the cover film 4 is not properly attached, the seal selection formed at the time of attachment is not formed at the relevant portion, and the infrared light is mainly emitted. By irradiating, a defective seal portion can be specified based on the brightness difference (luminance difference). As a result, a more accurate inspection can be performed. Further, in the present embodiment, in the S type inspection, the first irradiation unit IR1 is also turned on and irradiated with partially polarized diffused infrared light. For this reason, when imaging for inspection, when the imaging (irradiation) region is large (long) in the transfer direction of the PTP film 20, a seal failure can be detected with higher accuracy.

  Further, in the present embodiment, with the above-described configuration, the three inspections are not simply performed, and the position information of the tablet and the position information of the pocket portion extracted in the other inspections are used for each inspection. be able to. Here, conventionally, there is a concern that the tablet position or pocket position cannot be detected properly due to the difference in brightness or color of the tablet or cover film, and depending on the inspection, the tablet position or pocket may be manually detected. In some cases, part positions had to be entered. On the other hand, in the present embodiment, even when the tablet position or the pocket portion position cannot be detected during a predetermined inspection, information in another inspection can be used. Therefore, it is possible to execute an accurate inspection based on accurate position information, and it is possible to eliminate troublesomeness such as manual input. As a result, it is possible to dramatically improve inspection accuracy and inspection efficiency.

  Further mentioning an example of the merit of being able to use information in other inspections, in general, in the (S type) inspection relating to a seal failure, the original non-sealed portion of the pocket 2 is masked. However, the masking accuracy tends to affect the accuracy of the inspection, and in this sense, it can be said that the position information of the pocket portion 2 (position information of the tablet 5) is very important. On the other hand, it is effective to irradiate specularly reflected light in the (S type) inspection related to a seal failure, but it is difficult to specify the pocket portion 2 with such specularly reflected light. In this regard, in this embodiment, at least for the (S type) inspection relating to the seal failure, the position information of the tablet recognized in the (E type) inspection relating to the sheet foreign matter / tablet foreign matter or the (H type) inspection relating to the tablet surface peeling, the pocket Since the inspection is performed after the position information of the part is used, masking based on accurate position information can be performed after irradiating specular reflection light suitable for seal defect (S type) inspection. Therefore, the inspection accuracy can be dramatically improved.

  Furthermore, in this embodiment, since the three inspections are performed at substantially the same position, the influence of the deviation in the transport direction can be suppressed to a minimum as compared with the case where each inspection is performed at different locations, and the inspection accuracy can be suppressed. Can be further improved.

  In addition, each of the cameras 23E, 23H, and 23S is used for each inspection. However, since the cameras 23E, 23H, and 23S can image almost the same part, the influence of the shift in the transport direction is exerted. As a result, the inspection accuracy can be further minimized. Further, even when using the position information of the tablet or the position information of the pocket portion recognized in the other one inspection at the time of the predetermined inspection, the information is almost the same place, so that the reliability can be improved. . Furthermore, when a slight shift in the imaging timing occurs, the error can be reduced as much as possible even when correction is performed in consideration of the shift. In addition, since the cameras 23E, 23H, and 23S are gathered and installed in almost one place, the installation space has a great merit and the distance to the object to be photographed is almost constant in any inspection. Can do. As a result, even when data are mutually used, the reliability can be further increased.

  In the embodiment described above, for example, a part of the configuration can be appropriately changed as follows. Of course, other modifications not exemplified below are also possible.

  (A) In the above embodiment, one appearance inspection apparatus 21 performs three inspections of E type, H type, and S type. Also good. Even in this case, when performing a predetermined inspection, it is desirable that at least one of the position information of the tablet and the position information of the pocket portion recognized in the other one inspection can be used.

  (B) In the above embodiment, the inspection of the sheet portion is executed in the H type inspection, but the inspection of the sheet portion may be omitted.

  (C) The irradiation mode in each inspection is not necessarily limited to that in the above embodiment. For example, in the E type inspection, in the above example, the irradiation means IR1 to IR3 related to infrared light are all turned on (= irradiation state, on state), and the irradiation means WH4 to WH6 related to white light are all turned off ( = Non-irradiation state, off state), for example, only the third irradiation means IR3 may be turned on, or only the first and second irradiation means IR1 and IR2 may be turned on. In addition, when it is set as the structure which light is irradiated from at least 1st and 2nd irradiation means IR1, IR2, it is especially effective when a flat tablet (having a flat surface) is employ | adopted as a tablet. Further, when the secant of the tablet is deep, it is effective to irradiate light from the first irradiation means IR1.

  In the case of the H type inspection, in the above example, the irradiation means WH4 to WH6 related to white light are all turned on (= irradiation state, on state), and the irradiation means IR1 to IR3 related to infrared light are all turned off. (= Non-irradiation state, off state), for example, only the sixth irradiation means WH6 may be turned on. In addition, when it is set as the structure which at least 5th irradiation means WH5 irradiates with white light, it is especially effective when the sugar-coated tablet or the flat tablet with a chamfering part is employ | adopted as a tablet. Moreover, when the secant of a tablet (for example, a film coat tablet) is deep, it is effective to irradiate white light from the fourth irradiation means WH4.

  Further, in the case of the S type inspection, in the above example, only the first irradiation means IR1 and the third irradiation means IR3 related to infrared light are turned on (= irradiation state, on state), and the others are all turned off. Although it is in a state (= non-irradiation state, off state), for example, only the third irradiation means IR3 may be in an on state. In consideration of the angle of view, it is desirable to irradiate infrared light from at least the first irradiation means IR1.

  (D) Although not specifically mentioned in the above embodiment, at least S type inspection and / or E type when the tablet 5 is brown or dark and the sheet background color is silver or different from the tablet 5 In the inspection, it is desirable to inspect using the positional information of the tablets and pockets recognized in the S type inspection. When the tablet 5 is a brown or dark color system (for example, dark brown or black, including capsules) and the sheet background color is silver or different from the tablet, a difference in brightness between the sheet portion and the tablet portion hardly occurs, It tends to be difficult to extract (specify) the tablet 5. In this regard, when configured as described above, at least during the S-type inspection and the E-type inspection, the position information of the tablets and pockets recognized in the H-type inspection is used for inspection. That is, in the H type inspection, since the color tone difference (RGB) can be detected, the position information and the like of the pocket portion 2 can be accurately extracted based on this. And since an inspection is performed using the position information, a highly accurate inspection can be realized in the S type and E type inspections.

  Further, when the tablet 5 is white and the sheet background color is silver or the same color as the tablet, or when the tablet 5 is a capsule with a seal, at least S type inspection and / or H type inspection At this time, it is desirable to inspect after using the position information of the tablets and pockets recognized in the E type inspection. Tablet 5 is white (white, light blue, yellow, green, peach, etc., including sugar-coated tablets and film-coated tablets), and the sheet ground color is silver or the same color as the tablet, or the tablet is stamped In the case of a capsule (including 2 colors), the tablet 5 is extracted (identified) in the S type inspection and the H type inspection because the hue and lightness are the same or the marking position cannot be defined. Tend to be difficult to do. In this regard, with the above-described configuration, at least at the time of the S type inspection and the H type inspection, the inspection is performed after using the position information of the tablet and the pocket portion recognized in the E type inspection. That is, in the E type inspection, the rising portion of the pocket portion 2 can be detected with high accuracy mainly by the irradiation mode using the diffused light, so that the position information and the like of the pocket portion 2 can be accurately extracted based on this. And since an inspection is performed after using the position information, a highly accurate inspection can be realized in the S type inspection and the H type inspection.

  (E) Although not particularly mentioned in the above embodiment, not only whether or not each of the irradiation means IR1 to IR3 and WH4 to WH6 is turned on, but also their light amounts may be appropriately adjusted according to the inspection at that time. Good. In this case, the inspection accuracy can be further increased.

It is more realistic sectional drawing explaining schematic structure of the illuminating device in one Embodiment. (A) is a perspective view which shows a PTP sheet, (b) is a partial expanded sectional view which shows a PTP sheet, (c) is a top view at the time of seeing a part of PTP sheet from the film for sealing. (D) is a figure for demonstrating the concept of a pocket window and a tablet follow-up window. It is a schematic diagram which shows schematic structure, such as a PTP packaging machine. It is typical sectional drawing explaining schematic structure of an illuminating device. (A) is a schematic diagram which shows the relationship between an illumination means and each camera, (b) is a schematic diagram which shows the arrangement | positioning relationship between the camera for E, and the camera for S. FIG. It is typical sectional drawing of the illuminating device for demonstrating the irradiation aspect in the case of E type inspection. It is typical sectional drawing of the illuminating device for demonstrating the irradiation aspect in the case of H type inspection. It is typical sectional drawing of the illuminating device for demonstrating the irradiation aspect in the case of a S type test | inspection. It is a block diagram which shows the electrical structure of an external appearance inspection apparatus. It is a timing chart for demonstrating the imaging timing of each test | inspection. (A) is a flowchart showing an “S type setting routine”, and (b) is a flowchart showing an “S type inspection routine”. It is a flowchart which shows "H type tablet part setting routine". It is a flowchart which shows "H type tablet part inspection routine." It is a flowchart which shows "H type sheet part setting routine." It is a flowchart which shows "H type sheet part inspection routine." It is a flowchart which shows "E type tablet part setting routine." It is a flowchart which shows "E type tablet part test | inspection routine." It is a flowchart which shows "E type sheet part setting routine." It is a flowchart which shows "E type sheet | seat part inspection routine."

Explanation of symbols

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... PTP sheet as a sheet, 2 ... Pocket part, 3 ... Container film as a packaging film, 4 ... Sealing film as a cover film, 5 ... Tablet, 6 ... Seal wire, 7 ... PTP packaging machine, 21 ... Appearance inspection apparatus, 22 ... illumination device, 23E ... E camera as imaging means, 23H ... H camera as imaging means, 23S ... S camera as imaging means, 24-hand image processing apparatus, IR1 ... first Irradiation means, IR2 ... second irradiation means, IR3 ... third irradiation means, WH4 ... fourth irradiation means, WH5 ... fifth irradiation means, WH6 ... sixth irradiation means.

Claims (6)

Used in the manufacture of PTP sheets in which tablets are stored in pockets formed in packaging films, and the cover film is attached in a sealed state so as to close the pockets. test for peeling, and are external test 査装 location to perform testing for defective sealing,
An oblique direction infrared light irradiation means capable of irradiating infrared light in a predetermined oblique direction from the pocket portion side to the sheet being transferred, and a sheet being transferred at a shallower angle than the oblique direction infrared light irradiation means In contrast, a shallow angle oblique direction infrared light irradiating means capable of irradiating infrared light obliquely from the pocket side, and infrared light irradiating substantially perpendicular direction from the pocket side to the sheet being transferred. a vertical infrared light irradiating means, and a lighting device Ru and a vertical white light irradiating means capable of irradiating white light in a substantially perpendicular direction from said pocket side relative to the seat during transit,
A camera for inspection of sheet foreign matter / tablet foreign matter,
A camera for inspection related to tablet surface peeling;
A camera for inspection related to seal failure,
An image processing device that performs image processing based on image data captured by each camera;
A control device for switching and controlling the lighting state of each irradiation means,
Each of the cameras is installed in almost one place,
The controller is
When inspecting the sheet foreign matter / tablet foreign matter, at least the oblique direction infrared light irradiation means and the shallow angle oblique direction infrared light irradiation means are turned on,
When inspecting the tablet surface peeling, at least the vertical white light irradiation means is turned on,
Wherein when testing for seal failure, the appearance inspection 査装 location, characterized by switching control such that at least said vertical infrared light irradiating means is a lighting state. The illumination device further includes oblique infrared light irradiation means capable of irradiating infrared light in a predetermined oblique direction from the pocket portion side to the sheet being transferred,
The control device, wherein when testing for sheet foreign matter and tablets foreign matters further the oblique infrared light irradiating means the appearance inspection 査装 according to claim 1, characterized in that the switching control so as to be a lighting state Place. The illumination device further includes oblique white light irradiation means capable of irradiating white light in a predetermined oblique direction from the pocket portion side to the sheet being transferred,
Wherein the controller, when testing for the tablet surface release further the appearance inspection 査装 location according to claim 1 or 2 diagonal white light illumination means is also characterized by switching control to be a lighting state . The illumination device further includes shallow angle oblique white light irradiation means capable of irradiating white light obliquely from the pocket side to the sheet being transferred at an angle shallower than that of the oblique direction white light irradiation means. And
Wherein the controller, when testing for the tablet surface peeling, appearance inspection 査装 location according to claim 3, characterized in that also the switching control so as to be a lighting state further the shallow angle oblique white light emitting means . The illumination device further includes oblique infrared light irradiation means capable of irradiating infrared light in a predetermined oblique direction from the pocket portion side to the sheet being transferred,
The control device, the seal during test for failure, further appearance inspection according to any one of claims 1 to 4 characterized in that it also controls switching so that is lit the oblique infrared light irradiating means 査装 location. Used in the manufacture of PTP sheets in which tablets are stored in pockets formed in packaging films, and the cover film is attached in a sealed state so as to close the pockets. test for peeling, and are external test 査装 location to perform testing for defective sealing,
An oblique direction infrared light irradiation means capable of irradiating infrared light in a predetermined oblique direction from the pocket portion side to the sheet being transferred, and a sheet being transferred at a shallower angle than the oblique direction infrared light irradiation means In contrast, a shallow angle oblique direction infrared light irradiating means capable of irradiating infrared light obliquely from the pocket side, and infrared light irradiating substantially perpendicular direction from the pocket side to the sheet being transferred. Vertical infrared light irradiation means, oblique white light irradiation means capable of emitting white light in a predetermined oblique direction from the pocket side to the sheet being transferred, and at a shallower angle than the oblique white light irradiation means A shallow-angle oblique white light irradiating means capable of irradiating white light in an oblique direction from the pocket side to the sheet being transferred, and irradiating white light in a substantially vertical direction from the pocket side to the sheet being transferred possible and one of Ru with a vertical white light emitting means And the illumination device,
A camera for inspection of sheet foreign matter / tablet foreign matter,
A camera for inspection related to tablet surface peeling;
A camera for inspection related to seal failure,
An image processing device that performs image processing based on image data captured by each camera;
A control device for switching and controlling the lighting state of each irradiation means,
Each of the cameras is installed in almost one place,
The controller is
When inspecting the sheet foreign matter / tablet foreign matter, at least one of the vertical infrared light irradiation means, and the oblique direction infrared light irradiation means and the shallow angle oblique direction infrared light irradiation means is turned on,
In the inspection on the tablet surface peeling, at least the oblique direction white light irradiation means, the shallow angle oblique direction white light irradiation means, and the vertical white light irradiation means are turned on,
Wherein when testing for seal failure, the appearance inspection 査装 location, characterized by switching control such that at least said vertical infrared light irradiating means is a lighting state.

Images