JP6723818B2 - Tablet printing equipment - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a tablet printing device that prints predetermined identification information on the front surface and/or the back surface of a tablet.

In recent years, identification information about a manufacturer, a product category, and the like is often printed on tablets such as pharmaceuticals and foods in a non-contact manner by inkjet or the like. This identification information is generally composed of alphabets, numbers, or symbols so that the dispensing pharmacy, the patient, or the consumer can know the type of tablet.

Generally, such a tablet printing apparatus has a loading unit for loading a plurality of tablets, a transport unit for transporting the plurality of tablets loaded from the loading unit, and a predetermined identification for the tablets transported by the transport unit. A printing unit that prints information, an imaging unit that images the front surface and/or the back surface of a tablet on which predetermined identification information is printed by the printing unit, a defective product discharging unit that discharges defective products, and a control unit that controls each unit With. Then, the control unit inspects the printing state of the predetermined identification information based on the image data of the front surface and/or the back surface of the tablet imaged by the imaging unit, and ejects the tablet determined to have a defective printing state as a defective product. To be discharged to the section (for example, refer to Patent Document 1).

Among the tablets determined to be defective products, firstly, there are tablets physically determined to be defective products such as cracks and chips of tablets. This is caused by a collision or the like in the process of inserting, conveying, or reversing the tablets in the tablet printing apparatus. Such a tablet that is physically determined to be a defective product can be accurately determined to be a defective product by a visual inspection, and there is no choice but to discard it.

Secondly, among the tablets that are determined to be defective, there are tablets that are determined to be defective due to printing such as blurring, unclearness, smearing, and inclination of the tablet printing. This is caused by printing failure on the tablets or transfer due to collision between the tablets while a large number of tablets are randomly transported in the tablet printing apparatus. Many of the tablets determined to be defective in terms of printing include those in the gray zone, and some of them are non-defective.

Thirdly, among the tablets that are determined to be defective, there are tablets that are determined to be defective because the predetermined identification information is not printed on the tablet in the first place and there is no printing. This occurs because a large amount of tablets are randomly transported in the tablet printing apparatus and the tablets are not printed because the tablets are displaced from a predetermined position. A tablet determined to be a defective product because of no such printing can be treated as a non-defective tablet by reprinting.

Then, in the conventional printing device, any of the above-mentioned physically determined defective tablets, print-defective defective tablets, and tablets determined to be defective due to lack of printing are both , It was discharged to one defective product discharge part and discarded as it was. Further, in order to surely discharge the defective tablet, the defective tablet before and after the defective tablet may be discharged so as to be involved.

JP, 2013-013711, A

However, together with the tablets that were determined to be physically defective, which are obviously to be discarded, the tablets that were determined to be defective due to printing with many gray zones, and the tablets that were determined to be defective due to lack of printing, Obviously, if even non-defective tablets are uniformly discarded, there is a problem that the non-defective rate of the tablets decreases and the yield occurs. In particular, some tablets have a small lot scale and a high drug price, and such a decrease in the yield rate of tablets was by no means negligible.

Of course, it is conceivable to manually remove the tablets that can be restored as non-defective from the many tablets with mixed cobblestones discharged into one discharge section, but this is extremely complicated work and handles a large number of tablets. In some cases it's not realistic.

The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a tablet printing apparatus capable of increasing the yield rate of tablets.

In order to achieve the above-mentioned object, the present invention is a tablet printing apparatus for printing predetermined identification information on the front surface and/or the back surface of a tablet, comprising: a loading section into which a plurality of tablets are loaded; A transport unit that transports a plurality of tablets loaded from the device, a first defective product discharge unit and a second defective product discharge unit that discharge the defective tablet transported by the transport unit, and each unit are controlled. A controller for printing predetermined identification information on the front surface and/or the back surface of the tablet, and a front surface of the tablet on which the predetermined identification information is printed by the printing unit and/or An image pickup unit for inspection for picking up the back surface is arranged, and the control unit inspects the printing state of predetermined identification information based on the image data of the front surface and/or the back surface of the tablet imaged by the image pickup unit for inspection. , The predetermined identification information is printed on the front surface and/or the back surface of the tablet, but when it is determined that the printing is a defective tablet, the tablet is discharged to the first defective product discharging unit, and When it is determined that the tablet is a defective product in which predetermined identification information is not printed on the front surface and/or the back surface, the tablet is discharged to the second defective product discharging unit.

According to this, since the tablets which have many gray zones and are determined to be defective due to printing are individually ejected, it is possible to easily find a good tablet. Moreover, since the tablets determined to be defective due to no printing are separately discharged, only the tablets can be printed again. Therefore, a tablet that has been conventionally discarded as a defective product can be restored as a non-defective product, so that the non-defective product rate of the tablet can be increased.

Further, when the tablet discharged to the first defective product discharging section is reloaded to the charging section, the printing section does not print predetermined identification information on the front surface and/or the back surface of the tablet, The inspection imaging unit images the front surface and/or the back surface of the tablet, and the control unit sets a predetermined identification information based on the image data of the front surface and/or the back surface of the tablet imaged by the inspection imaging unit. When the printing condition is inspected and the predetermined identification information is printed on the front surface and/or the back surface of the tablet, but it is determined that the printing is a defective tablet, the tablet is discharged to the first defective product discharge section. You may let me. According to this, it is possible to more easily and surely find a tablet which has a large number of gray zones and which is determined to be defective in terms of printing, or a non-defective tablet is inspected again by using this device. In addition, even if a non-defective tablet accidentally discharged together with a non-defective tablet is inspected again by using this apparatus, the non-defective tablet can be found more easily and reliably.

Further, when the tablet discharged to the second defective product discharging unit is reloaded to the charging unit, the printing unit performs a predetermined identification on the front surface and/or the back surface on which the tablet identification information is not printed. After printing the information, the inspection imaging unit images the front surface and/or the back surface of the tablet, and the control unit is based on the image data of the front surface and/or the back surface of the tablet imaged by the inspection imaging unit. When the printing state of the predetermined identification information is inspected and the predetermined identification information is printed on the front surface and/or the back surface of the tablet, but when the printing is determined to be a defective tablet, the tablet is not Even if the tablet is discharged to the non-defective product discharging unit, if it is determined that the tablet is a defective product in which predetermined identification information is not printed on the front surface and/or the back surface of the tablet, the tablet may be discharged to the second defective product discharging unit. Good. According to this, by reprinting a defective tablet due to no printing by using this apparatus, only the tablet can be reprinted more easily and reliably. In addition, even if a non-defective tablet accidentally discharged together with a non-defective tablet is inspected again by using this apparatus, the non-defective tablet can be found more easily and reliably.

Further, a third defective product discharging unit for discharging tablets is further provided, and the control unit controls the defective product tablets not discharged by the first defective product discharging unit and the second defective product discharging unit. It may be discharged to the third defective product discharging section. It is possible to discharge the defective tablets that have not been discharged by the first defective product discharging unit and the second defective product discharging unit.

Further, a first tablet detection unit is provided behind the first defective product discharge unit in the transport direction, and the first tablet detection unit detects the position of the defective tablet transported by the transport unit. However, the control unit may control the discharge timing of the defective tablet in the first defective product discharging unit based on the detection result of the position of the defective tablet by the first tablet detecting unit. .. According to this, the defective tablet can be reliably discharged in the first defective product discharging portion.

Further, a second tablet detection unit is provided between the first defective product discharge unit and the second defective product discharge unit, and the second tablet detection unit is a unit that has been transported by the transport unit. The presence/absence of a non-defective tablet is detected, and the control unit detects the presence/absence of a defective tablet by the second tablet detection unit, and determines the defective product to be discharged to the first defective product discharging unit. If it is determined that the tablet has not been discharged, the tablet may be discharged to the third defective product discharging unit. According to this, even when the defective tablet to be discharged to the first defective product discharge section is not discharged, the defective tablet can be surely discharged.

Further, a third tablet detection unit is provided between the second defective product discharge unit and the third defective product discharge unit, and the third tablet detection unit is a unit that has been transported by the transport unit. The presence/absence of non-defective tablets is detected, and the control unit detects defective products according to the detection result of the presence/absence of defective tablets by the third tablet detection unit. If it is determined that the tablet has not been discharged, the tablet may be discharged to the third defective product discharging unit. According to this, even when the defective tablet to be discharged to the second defective product discharge section is not discharged, the defective tablet can be surely discharged.

Further, a fourth tablet detection unit is provided in front of the third defective product discharge unit in the transport direction, and the fourth tablet detection unit detects the presence or absence of a defective tablet transported by the transport unit. Then, the control unit, based on the detection result of the presence or absence of a defective tablet by the fourth tablet detection unit, the first defective product discharge unit, the second defective product discharge unit, and the third defective product discharge unit. If it is determined that any defective tablet to be discharged to any defective product discharging unit is not discharged to the defective product discharging unit, the apparatus may be stopped. According to this, the defective tablet to be discharged to any one of the defective product discharge section, the second defective product discharge section, and the third defective product discharge section is not discharged. In this case, since the device is stopped, it is possible to prevent a defective tablet from being conveyed together with a non-defective tablet after that and being mistakenly mixed with the non-defective tablet.

According to the present invention, the tablets which are judged to be defective due to printing and have many gray zones are individually discharged, so that a good tablet can be easily found. Moreover, since the tablets determined to be defective due to no printing are separately discharged, only the tablets can be printed again. Therefore, a tablet that has been conventionally discarded as a defective product can be restored as a non-defective product, so that the non-defective product rate of the tablet can be increased.

It is a schematic configuration diagram showing a tablet printing apparatus according to the present embodiment. FIG. 3 is an enlarged side view of the vicinity of the defective product discharge unit of the printing apparatus of FIG. 1. It is a top view which shows the ceiling-mounted conveyor of the tablet printing apparatus of FIG. It is a top view which shows the surface of a tablet. It is a top view which shows the process of imaging and printing a tablet. It is a top view which shows a defective tablet. 6 is a first flowchart showing a tablet printing method (normal printing mode/reprinting mode). 6 is a second flowchart showing a tablet printing method (normal printing mode/reprinting mode). It is a flowchart which shows the discharge method of a tablet. It is a flow chart which shows a tablet printing method (reinspection mode).

<First Embodiment>
Next, a first embodiment of a tablet printing apparatus according to the present invention (hereinafter referred to as the present apparatus) will be described with reference to FIGS.

As shown in FIG. 1, the present apparatus includes a base 1, a loading section 2 provided on the upper side of the base 1, and an upstream transport section 3 provided below the loading section 2 in the base 1. A downstream transport unit 4 provided below the upstream transport unit 3, a drying unit 5 provided below the downstream transport unit 4, and a defective product discharge unit for discharging defective tablets. 6, a non-defective product discharging unit 7 that discharges non-defective tablets, and a control unit 8 that controls each unit.

In addition, in this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4, a dividing line T1 for dividing the tablet T in half is engraved on the surface of the tablet T. The front surface of the tablet T means a surface on which the dividing line T1 of the tablet T is engraved, and the back surface of the tablet T means a surface on which the dividing line T1 of the tablet T is not engraved. Further, the one surface of the tablet T refers to a surface on the lower side of the transport unit 3 on the upstream side or a surface on the upper side of the transport unit 4 on the downstream side regardless of the front and back of the tablet T. The other surface of the tablet T refers to the upper surface of the upstream transport unit 3 or the lower surface of the downstream transport unit 4 regardless of whether the tablet T is front or back.

The charging unit 2 includes a hopper 21 having a charging port 21a formed in an upper portion thereof. When a plurality of tablets T are charged into the hopper 21 through the charging port 21a, the tablets T pass through the inside of the hopper 21. , And is discharged to the upstream transport unit 3.

The upstream transport unit 3 transports the plurality of tablets T loaded from the loading unit 2 in one direction (rightward in FIG. 1), and is arranged under the loading unit 2 in a multi-row distribution. The multi-row distribution trough 31 includes a trough 31, a ceiling-mounted conveyor 32 provided in front of the multi-row distribution trough 31 in the transport direction, and a mounting type conveyor 33 provided in front of the multi-row distribution trough 31 in the transport direction. 31, a ceiling-mounted conveyor 32, and a stationary conveyor 33 are arranged side by side in the carrying direction.

The multi-row sorting trough 31 is arranged in such a manner that it is gently inclined downward toward the front in the transport direction, and transports the plurality of tablets T while gradually aligning them in the width direction (depth direction in FIG. 1).

The tablets T ejected from the charging section 2 to the multi-row distribution trough 31 are those in which the surface on which the score line T1 is engraved faces upward, and the back surface on which the score line T1 is not engraved is upward. In this state, the ones that are suitable for are mixed, and thereafter, they are transported in that state.

As shown in FIG. 1, the ceiling-mounted conveyor 32 includes a drive shaft 321 arranged at the front in the conveying direction, a driven shaft 322 arranged at the rear in the conveying direction, and an endless space between the drive shaft 321 and the driven shaft 322. The timing belt 323 is wound around in a state, and the timing belt 323 rotates counterclockwise in FIG. 1 when the drive shaft 321 rotates about its own axis by a drive motor (not shown).

As shown in FIG. 3, the timing belt 323 is composed of a plurality of elongated timing belt pieces 323a, and each timing belt piece 323a is arranged with a gap narrower than the width of the tablet T in the width direction. Then, the negative pressure chamber (not shown) sucks air from each gap of the timing belt piece 323a to suck the tablet T.

Thus, when the plurality of tablets T conveyed from the multi-row distribution trough 31 reach the ceiling-mounted conveyor 32, they are the same in that they are adsorbed to the timing belt 323 of the ceiling-mounted conveyor 32 in a ceiling-mounted state. It is delivered on a flat surface and is transported forward in the transport direction in accordance with the rotation of the timing belt 323 while maintaining its suspended state.

In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, at a position in front of the multi-row sorting trough 31 in the conveyance direction and below the rear end of the ceiling-mounted conveyor 32, a predetermined direction (right in FIG. 1) is shown. The auxiliary roller 324 that rotates about its own axis is provided. The auxiliary roller 324 is arranged such that the highest point on the peripheral surface is higher than the multi-row distribution trough 31 and lower than the ceiling-mounted conveyor 32. For this reason, the auxiliary roller 324 receives the plurality of tablets T from the multi-row distribution trough 31 on the peripheral surface and then raises the tablets T on the peripheral surface in accordance with the rotation, and at the highest point, the auxiliary roller 324 of the ceiling-mounted conveyor 32 is provided. It is delivered to the timing belt 323. Generally, the suction force is weak at the end portion of the ceiling-mounted conveyor 32, but the tablets T can be reliably delivered to the ceiling-mounted conveyor 32 by thus raising the tablets T by the auxiliary rollers 324. ..

The stationary conveyor 33 includes a reversing drum 331 arranged in the front in the conveying direction, a driven shaft 332 arranged in the rear in the conveying direction, and a timing belt wound endlessly between the reversing drum 331 and the driven shaft 332. 333, the timing belt 333 rotates clockwise in FIG. 1 when the reversing drum 331 rotates about its own axis by a drive motor (not shown).

Further, the timing belt 333 is composed of a plurality of elongated timing belt pieces like the timing belt 323 of the ceiling-mounted conveyor 32, and each timing belt piece has a gap narrower than the width of the tablet T in the width direction. Are arranged. Then, in the reversing drum 331, a negative pressure chamber (not shown) sucks air from the gap between the timing belts 333 to suck the tablets T.

An intermediate roller 334 is provided at the upper left position of the reversing drum 331, and the timing belt 333 delivered from the reversing drum 331 is lifted to the upper left side of the reversing drum 331 so that A space for arranging each member such as a first imaging unit 101, a third imaging unit 103, a second printing unit 202, and a second inspection imaging unit 302 described later is formed.

Thus, when the plurality of tablets T conveyed from the ceiling-mounted conveyer 32 reach the placement-type conveyer 33, they are delivered on the same plane in such a manner that they are placed on the timing belt 333 of the placement-type conveyer 33. After that, the sheet is conveyed forward in the conveying direction according to the rotation of the timing belt 333 while maintaining the mounted state. Then, the tablets T that have reached the reversing drum 331 are adsorbed on the timing belt 333 by a negative pressure chamber (not shown), and are conveyed downward in a state of being turned upside down as the reversing drum 331 rotates.

The downstream-side transport unit 4 receives the plurality of tablets T from the upstream-side transport unit 3 in an inverted state and transports the tablets T in the other direction (leftward in FIG. 1). A ceiling-mounted conveyor 41 is provided.

The mounting/ceiling-type conveyor 41 includes an inversion drum 411 arranged in the front in the conveying direction, a driven shaft 412 arranged in the rear in the conveying direction, and an endless winding between the inversion drum 411 and the driven shaft 412. The timing belt 413 is rotated and the timing belt 413 rotates counterclockwise in FIG. 1 when the reversing drum 411 rotates about its own axis by a drive motor (not shown).

Like the timing belt 323 of the ceiling-mounted conveyor 32, the timing belt 413 is also composed of a plurality of elongated timing belt pieces, and each timing belt piece is arranged with a gap narrower than the width of the tablet T in the width direction. ing. Then, in the reversing drum 411, a negative pressure chamber (not shown) sucks air from the gap between the timing belts 413 to suck the tablets T.

Thus, the tablets T conveyed from the upstream-side conveying unit 3 while being turned upside down are mounted on the timing belt 413 of the mounting/ceiling-type conveyor 41 when reaching the mounting/ceiling-type conveyor 41. After being delivered in the manner of being placed, it is conveyed forward in the conveying direction according to the rotation of the timing belt 413 while maintaining the placed state. Then, the tablets T that have reached the reversing drum 411 are adsorbed to the timing belt 413 by the negative pressure chamber, are conveyed downward in a state of being turned upside down according to the rotation of the reversing drum 411, and are then suspended as they are up to the drying unit 5. They are transported and delivered on the same plane.

The drying unit 5 receives a plurality of tablets T in a state in which the tablets T are turned upside down from the downstream-side transport unit 4 and dries while transporting the plurality of tablets T in one direction (right direction in FIG. 1). Yes, a mesh type conveyor 51 is provided.

The mesh type conveyor 51 includes a drive shaft 511 arranged in the front in the conveying direction, a driven shaft 512 arranged in the rear in the conveying direction, and a mesh belt wound endlessly between the drive shaft 511 and the driven shaft 512. 513, the mesh belt 513 rotates clockwise in FIG. 1 when the drive shaft 511 rotates itself by a drive motor (not shown).

Thus, when the plurality of tablets T transported from the downstream transport unit 4 in a suspended state are received on the mesh belt 51, they are placed on the mesh belt 513 and received on the same plane. Then, the mesh belt 513 is conveyed and is conveyed forward in the conveying direction as the mesh belt 513 rotates. At this time, the tablet T is blown with warm air by a heater (not shown) to dry the printing of the identification information on the front surface and the back surface.

The defective product discharging unit 6 is provided below the end of the placing/ceiling-type conveyor on the side of the reversing drum 411, along the transport direction, with a first defective product discharging unit 61, a second defective product discharging unit 62, and A third defective product discharging unit 63 is sequentially provided, and a tablet detecting unit 64 is provided in the vicinity of each defective product discharging unit 61, 62, 63.

The first defective product discharging unit 61, the second defective product discharging unit 62, and the third defective product discharging unit 63 are all based on a command from the control unit 8 and are placed on the ceiling-mounted conveyor 41. Air is blown onto a predetermined defective tablet T by air injection units 61a, 62a, 63a provided inside the container, so that the defective tablet T is discharged while being dropped downward from the mounting/ceiling-type conveyor 41. The paper is discharged to the boxes 61b, 62b, 63b. The method of discharging the tablets T in the first to third defective product discharging sections 61, 62, 63 will be described in detail later.

Further, the tablet detection unit 64 includes a first tablet detection unit 64a provided behind the first defective product discharge unit 61 in the transport direction, the first defective product discharge unit 61, and a second defective product discharge. A second tablet detector 64b provided between the parts 62, a third tablet detector 64c provided between the second defective product discharge part 62 and the third defective product discharge part 63, and A fourth tablet detection unit 64d provided in front of the third defective product discharge unit 63 in the transport direction is provided. A method of detecting the tablet T by the tablet detecting unit 64 will be described later in detail.

The first defective product discharging unit 61 has predetermined identification information printed on the front surface and the back surface of the tablet T based on a command from the control unit 8, but the tablet which is defective is printed (hereinafter, referred to as a first tablet. The defective tablet T) is discharged. Specifically, the control unit 8 controls the printing state of predetermined identification information based on the image data of the front surface and the back surface of the tablet T imaged by the first inspection imaging unit 301 and the second inspection imaging unit 302. When it is determined that the conveyed tablet T is the tablet T of the first defective product, the first defective product discharging unit 61 is instructed by the air ejecting unit 61a based on the instruction of the control unit 8. The first defective tablet is discharged to the defective box 61b.

At this time, the first tablet detection unit 64a detects the position of the defective tablet T that has been conveyed in a ceiling-mounted state by the mounting/ceiling-type conveyor 41, and detects the position of the defective tablet T. The detection result of is transmitted to the control unit 8. Then, the control unit 8 controls the discharge timing of the defective tablet T in the first defective product discharging unit 61 based on the detection result of the position of the defective tablet T by the first tablet detecting unit 64a.

Further, the second tablet detection unit 64b is a tablet of the first defective product that has been conveyed in a ceiling suspension state in front of the first defective product discharge unit 61 in the conveying direction by the mounting/ceiling-type conveyor 41. The presence or absence of T is detected, and the detection result of the presence or absence of the defective tablet T is transmitted to the control unit 8.

Note that the first defective tablet T is, for example, as shown in FIG. 6, (a) the printing of the identification information is faint, (b) the printing of the identification information is inclined, and (c) other tablets. Examples include those to which identification information is transferred. Such first defective tablets are often defective in the gray zone depending on the degree of blurring, inclination, and transfer, and there is a possibility that non-defective tablets are included therein.

The second defective product discharging unit 62, based on a command from the control unit 8, has a tablet on which predetermined identification information is not printed on the front surface and/or the back surface of the tablet T (hereinafter, referred to as a second defective product tablet T). Is called). Specifically, the control unit 8 determines the printing state of the predetermined identification information based on the image data of the front surface and the back surface of the tablet T captured by the first inspection imaging unit 301 and the second inspection imaging unit 302. When it is inspected and it is determined that the transported tablet T is the tablet T of the second defective product, the second defective product discharging unit 62 is controlled by the air injecting unit 62a based on the instruction of the control unit 8. The defective tablet T of No. 2 is discharged to the defective box 62b.

At this time, the third tablet detection unit 64c is the second defective tablet that has been conveyed by the ceiling/suspending type conveyor 41 forward of the second defective product discharge unit 62 in the ceiling direction. The presence or absence of T is detected, and the detection result of the presence or absence of the second defective tablet T is transmitted to the control unit 8.

As shown in FIG. 6, the second defective tablet T has (d) no identification information printed on the front surface and no printing, or (e) no identification information printed on the back surface. There is no printing. Such a second defective tablet T can be treated as a non-defective tablet T if the identification information is printed again on the front surface and/or the back surface of the tablet T that has not been printed.

The third defective product discharging unit 63, based on a command from the control unit 8, receives defective tablets that have not been discharged by the first defective product discharging unit 61 and the second defective product discharging unit 62. 3) defective tablet T) is discharged. Specifically, the control unit 8 determines whether the first or second defective tablet T is detected by the second tablet detection unit 64b or the third tablet detection unit 64c. The presence or absence of the second defective product tablet T is inspected, and the first or second defective product tablet T to be discharged to the first defective product discharge portion 61 or the second defective product discharge portion 62 is discharged. When it is determined that there is no such defect, the third defective product discharging unit 63 discharges the tablet T of the third defective product to the defective product box 63b by the air ejecting unit 63a based on the command of the control unit 8.

At this time, the fourth tablet detecting unit 64d is transported from the mounting/ceiling-type conveyor 41 to the front of the third defective product discharging unit 63 in the transport direction in a ceiling-mounted state. The presence or absence of non-defective tablets T is detected, and the detection results of the presence of the first to third defective tablets T are transmitted to the control unit 8. Then, the control unit 8 inspects the presence or absence of the first to third defective tablet T based on the detection result of the presence or absence of the first to third defective tablet T by the fourth tablet detection unit 64d. If it is determined that the first to third defective tablets T have not been discharged, the device is stopped.

The third defective product tablet T is originally the first defective product tablet T or the second defective product tablet T, but the first defective product discharge due to misalignment of the tablet T or the like. The tablets T that have not been discharged by the portion 61 or the second defective product discharging portion 62. In addition, the third defective tablet T may also include a tablet T that is physically determined to be defective such as a crack or chip of the tablet.

The non-defective product discharging unit 7 is provided in front of the drying unit 5 in the carrying direction, and ejects the non-defective product tablets T, which are carried while being dried by the drying unit 5, to the outside of the apparatus.

The upstream transport unit 3 includes a first image pickup unit 101 arranged below the ceiling-mounted conveyor 32 and a second image pickup unit 102 arranged above the rear portion of the upstream mountable conveyor 33. A first printing unit 201 disposed above the intermediate portion of the upstream side placement type conveyor 33, and a first inspection imaging unit 301 disposed above the front side of the upstream side placement type conveyor 33. Are provided respectively.

The first image capturing unit 101 captures an image of one surface of the tablet T, which is conveyed by the ceiling-suspended conveyor 32 in a suspended state, exposed below the tablet T. In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 5A, since the plurality of tablets T sequentially pass above the first imaging unit 101 in a row in the width direction, the first imaging unit 101 The one surface of the tablet T is imaged for each column, and the image data of the one surface of the tablet T is transmitted to the control unit 8. At this time, the first imaging unit 101 images the front surface on which the score line T1 is engraved or the back surface on which the score line T1 is not engraved, depending on the front and back states of the tablet T.

The second image capturing unit 102 captures an image of the other surface of the tablet T that is conveyed by the mounting conveyor 33 in a mounted state and that is exposed to the upper side of the tablet T. In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 5B, since the plurality of tablets T sequentially pass under the second imaging unit 102 in a row in the width direction, the second imaging unit 102 The other surface of the tablet T is imaged for each column, and the image data of the other surface of the tablet T is transmitted to the control unit 8. At this time, the second imaging unit 102 images the front surface on which the dividing line T1 is engraved, while the second imaging unit 102 images the tablet T on which the back surface on which the dividing line T1 is not engraved is imaged by the first imaging unit 101. For the tablet T of which the front surface on which the dividing line T1 is engraved is imaged by the first imaging unit 101, the back surface on which the dividing line T1 is not engraved is imaged. Note that in FIG. 5B, the dividing lines T1 on which the tablet T is not visible are virtually shown by broken lines, but since these dividing lines T1 have already been imaged by the first imaging unit 101, the control unit The direction is recognized at 8.

The first printing unit 201 prints predetermined identification information on the other surface of the tablet T based on a command from the control unit 8. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 5C, the first printing unit 201 includes one surface of the tablet T captured by the first imaging unit 101 and the other surface of the tablet T captured by the second imaging unit 102 and the other. On the basis of the image data of the direction, for the tablet T having the other surface as the front surface, the identification information for the surface (for example, ABC) is printed along the direction of the secant T1, and the tablet T having the other surface as the back surface is used. For the back side, the identification information for the back side (for example, 123) is printed along the same direction as the dividing line T1 on the front side of the tablet T. In the present embodiment, since the plurality of tablets T sequentially pass under the first printing unit 201 in a row in the width direction, the first printing unit 201 sets a predetermined amount with respect to the other surface of the tablets T. The identification information is sequentially printed for each column.

The first inspection imaging unit 301 images the other surface of the tablet T for the tablet T on which the predetermined identification information is printed by the first printing unit 201. In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 5C, the plurality of tablets T sequentially pass under the first inspection imaging unit 301 in a row in the width direction. The imaging unit 301 images the other surface of the tablet T for each column, and transmits the image data of the other surface of the tablet T to the control unit 8. The image data of the other surface of the tablet T by the first imaging unit for inspection 301 is used by the control unit 8 for inspection of the printing state of the identification information on the other surface (front surface or back surface) of the tablet T.

The downstream transfer unit 4 includes a third imaging unit 103 disposed above the rear portion of the downstream mounting/ceiling-type conveyor 41 and an intermediate portion of the downstream mounting/ceiling-type conveyor 41. And a second inspection image pickup unit 302 arranged above the front portion of the loading/ceiling-type conveyor 41 on the downstream side.

The third imaging unit 103 re-images one surface of the plurality of tablets T received from the upstream-side transport unit 3 in the state of being turned upside down on the downstream mounting/ceiling-type conveyor 41. In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 5D, the plurality of tablets T sequentially pass under the third image capturing unit 103 in a row in the width direction, so that the third image capturing unit 103 is The one surface of the tablet T is re-imaged for each column, and the image data of the one surface of the tablet T is transmitted to the control unit 8. The imaged data by the third imager 103 is used by the controller 8 for re-recognizing the position of the tablet T, the direction of the secant T1, and the front and back. As a result, when the downstream transport unit 4 receives a plurality of tablets T from the upstream transport unit 3 in a reversed state, even if the position or direction of the tablets T is slightly changed, By re-imaging the one surface of the tablet T by the imaging unit 103, it is possible to accurately recognize the position of the tablet T, the direction of the secant T1, and the front and back.

The second printing unit 202 prints predetermined identification information on one surface of the tablet T based on a command from the control unit 8. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 5E, the second printing unit 202 includes one surface of the tablet T captured by the first imaging unit 101 and the other surface of the tablet T captured by the second imaging unit 102, and the other surface of the tablet T. On the basis of the image data of the direction, for the tablet T having one surface as the front surface, the identification information for the surface (for example, ABC) is printed along the direction of the dividing line T1, and the tablet T having the one surface as the back surface is used. For the back side, the identification information for the back side (for example, 123) is printed along the same direction as the dividing line T1 on the front side of the tablet T. In the present embodiment, since the plurality of tablets T sequentially pass under the second printing unit 202 in a row in the width direction, the second printing unit 202 causes the tablets T to have a predetermined surface with respect to the other surface. The identification information is sequentially printed for each column.

The second inspection imaging unit 302 images one surface of the tablet T for the tablet T on which predetermined identification information is printed by the second printing unit 202. In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 5E, a plurality of tablets T are sequentially passed under the second inspection image pickup unit 302 in a row in the width direction, so that the second inspection The imaging unit 302 images one surface of the tablets T for each column, and transmits the image data of the one surface of the tablets T to the control unit 8. The image data of the one surface of the tablet T by the second image capturing unit 302 for inspection is used by the control unit 8 to inspect the printing state of the identification information on the one surface (front surface or back surface) of the tablet T.

Next, the tablet printing method (normal printing mode) in this apparatus will be described with reference to the flowcharts shown in FIGS. 7 and 8. In the following description, “step” is abbreviated as “S”.

First, when a plurality of tablets T are charged into the hopper 21 from the charging port 21a of the charging section 2, the tablets T pass through the inside of the hopper 21 and are then discharged to the upstream transport section 3 (S1).

Next, in the upstream transport unit 3, the plurality of tablets T loaded from the loading unit 2 are transported in one direction (rightward in FIG. 1).

Specifically, in the multi-row distribution trough 31, a plurality of tablets T are conveyed while being gradually aligned in the width direction (depth direction in FIG. 1), and then transferred to the ceiling-mounted conveyor 32 on the same plane. (S2).

Then, in the ceiling-mounted conveyor 32, a plurality of tablets T are adsorbed to the timing belt 323 in a ceiling-mounted state, and while being maintained in the ceiling-mounted state, they are transported forward in the transport direction according to the rotation of the timing belt 323, and then mounted. It is delivered to the stationary conveyor 33 on the same plane (S3).

At this time, the first image capturing unit 101 captures an image of one surface of the tablet T, which is conveyed in a ceiling suspension state by the ceiling suspension conveyor 32, exposed on the lower side of the tablet T (S31).

Then, in the stationary conveyor 33, a plurality of tablets are placed on the timing belt 333, and while being kept in the loaded state, they are conveyed forward in the conveying direction according to the rotation of the timing belt 333, and then are not shown in the reversing drum 331. It is adsorbed to the timing belt 333 by the negative pressure chamber and is conveyed downward in a state of being turned upside down according to the rotation of the turning drum 331 (S4).

At this time, the second image capturing unit 102 captures an image of the other surface of the tablet T that is conveyed in the mounted state by the mounting type conveyor 33 and that is exposed on the upper side of the tablet T (S41).

Then, the first printing unit 201 prints predetermined identification information on the other surface of the tablet T based on a command from the control unit 8 (S42). Specifically, as shown in FIG. 6C, the first printing unit 201 has one surface and the other surface of the tablet T imaged by the first imaging unit 101 and the second imaging unit 102. On the basis of the image data of the direction, for the tablet T having the other surface as the front surface, the identification information for the surface (for example, ABC) is printed along the direction of the secant T1, and the tablet T having the other surface as the back surface is used. For the back side, the identification information for the back side (for example, 123) is printed along the same direction as the dividing line T1 on the front side of the tablet T.

After that, the first inspection imaging unit 301 images the other surface of the tablet T for the tablet T on which the predetermined identification information is printed by the first printing unit 201, and an image of the other surface of the tablet T. The data is transmitted to the control unit 8 (S43). The image data of the other surface of the tablet T by the first imaging unit for inspection 301 is used by the control unit 8 for inspection of the printing state of the identification information on the other surface (front surface or back surface) of the tablet T.

Next, in the downstream-side transport unit 4, the plurality of tablets T are received from the upstream-side transport unit 3 in a reversed state and transported in the other direction (left direction in FIG. 1).

Specifically, in the placement/ceiling-type conveyor 41, a plurality of tablets T are delivered in a manner of being placed on the timing belt 413 of the placement/ceiling-type conveyor 41, and the placement state is maintained. Meanwhile, as the timing belt 413 rotates, it is transported forward in the transport direction. Then, the tablets T that have reached the reversing drum 411 are adsorbed to the timing belt 413 by the negative pressure chamber, and are conveyed downward in a state of being turned upside down according to the rotation of the reversing drum 411, and then are conveyed as they are in a suspended state ( S5).

At this time, the third image capturing unit 103 re-images one surface of the plurality of tablets T received from the upstream-side transport unit 3 in the state of being turned upside down on the downstream mounting/ceiling-type conveyor 41. Then, the image data of the one surface of the tablet T is transmitted to the control unit 8 (S51).

Then, the second printing unit 202 prints predetermined identification information on one surface of the tablet T based on a command from the control unit 8 (S52). Specifically, as shown in FIG. 6E, the second printing unit 202 includes one surface of the tablet T captured by the first imaging unit 101 and the other surface of the tablet T captured by the second imaging unit 102, and the other. On the basis of the image data of the direction, for the tablet T having one surface as the front surface, the identification information for the surface (for example, ABC) is printed along the direction of the dividing line T1, and the tablet T having the one surface as the back surface is used. For the back side, the identification information for the back side (for example, 123) is printed along the same direction as the dividing line T1 on the front side of the tablet T.

After that, the second inspection imaging unit 302 images one surface of the tablet T for the tablet T on which the predetermined identification information is printed by the second printing unit 202, and image data of the one surface of the tablet T. Is transmitted to the control unit 8 (S53). The image data of the one surface of the tablet T by the second image capturing unit 302 for inspection is used by the control unit 8 to inspect the printing state of the identification information on the one surface (front surface or back surface) of the tablet T.

Thereafter, the defective product discharge unit 6 supplies air to the predetermined defective product tablets T by air injection units 61a, 62a, 63a provided inside the mounting/ceiling-type conveyor 41 based on a command from the control unit. The defective tablets T are ejected to the ejection boxes 61b, 62b, 63b while being dropped from the mounting/ceiling-type conveyor 41 by being sprayed on the. The method of discharging the defective tablet T by the defective product discharging unit 6 will be described later in detail.

Next, in the drying unit 5, after the plurality of tablets T are transferred on the same plane from the downstream transfer unit 4 onto the mesh belt 513 of the mesh type conveyor 51, the tablets T are placed on the same plane. While maintaining the state, the mesh belt 513 is conveyed forward in the conveying direction according to the rotation of the mesh belt 513. In the conveying process, warm air is blown by a heater (not shown) to dry the printed portion of the identification information on the front surface and the back surface (S6).

Next, in the discharging section 7 of the present apparatus, the non-defective tablets T conveyed while being dried by the drying section 5 are discharged to the outside of the apparatus (S7).

Next, a method of discharging defective tablets by the defective product discharge unit 6 will be specifically described with reference to FIG.

First, the control unit 8 inspects the printing state of predetermined identification information based on the image data of the front surface and the back surface of the tablet T imaged by the first inspection imaging unit 301 and the second inspection imaging unit 302. However, if it is determined that the conveyed tablet T is the tablet T of the first defective product (S541) (YES in S541), the first defective product ejecting unit 61 determines that the first defective product ejecting unit 61 is instructed by the control unit 8. The tablet T of the first defective product is discharged to the defective product box 61b by the air ejecting unit 61a (S542). On the other hand, when it is determined that the transported tablet T is not the first defective tablet T (NO in S541), the tablet T is transported as it is, and the process proceeds to S543.

Then, the control unit 8 inspects the print state of the predetermined identification information based on the image data of the front surface and the back surface of the tablet T imaged by the first inspection imaging unit 301 and the second inspection imaging unit 302. Then, if it is determined that the transported tablet T is the second defective tablet T (S543) (YES in S543), the second defective product discharge section 62 is controlled by the second defective product discharge section 62 based on the command from the control section 8. The air ejection unit 62a ejects the second defective tablet T to the defective box 62b (S544). On the other hand, when it is determined that the transported tablet T is not the second defective tablet T (NO in S543), the tablet T is transported as it is, and the process proceeds to S545.

Then, the control unit 8 determines whether the first or second defective tablet T is detected by the second tablet detection unit 64b or the third tablet detection unit 64c. The presence or absence of defective tablets T is inspected (S545), and the first or second defective tablet T to be discharged to the first defective product discharge section 61 or the second defective product discharge section 62 is discharged. If not determined (YES in S545), the third defective product ejecting unit 63 causes the air ejecting unit 63a to transfer the tablet T of the third defective product to the defective product box 63b based on the instruction of the control unit 8. It is discharged (S546). On the other hand, when it is determined that the transported tablet T is not the first defective tablet T (NO in S545), the tablet T is transported as it is, and the process proceeds to S547.

Then, the control unit inspects the presence or absence of the first to third defective tablet T based on the detection result of the presence or absence of the first to third defective tablet by the fourth tablet detection unit 64d ( If it is determined that the first to third defective tablets T have not been discharged (S547) (YES in S547), the apparatus is stopped (S548). On the other hand, when it is determined that the third defective tablet has been discharged (NO in S547), the conveyed tablet T is passed to the drying unit 5 as a non-defective item.

<Second Embodiment>
Next, a second embodiment of the tablet printing apparatus according to the present invention (hereinafter referred to as the present apparatus) will be described.

In the present embodiment, a case of a reinspection mode in which only the reinspection of the tablets T of the first defective product discharged to the first defective product discharge unit 61 is performed will be described.

Specifically, when the tablet T of the first defective product discharged to the first defective product discharging unit 61 is reloaded into the loading unit 21, the first printing unit 201 and the second printing unit 202 are The first inspecting image pickup unit 301 and the second inspecting image pickup unit 302 do not print the predetermined identification information on the front surface and the rear surface of the first defective tablet T, and the first defective tablet is the first defective tablet. The front and back surfaces of T are imaged.

Then, the control unit 8 determines the printing state of the predetermined identification information based on the image data of the front surface and/or the back surface of the tablet T imaged by the first inspection imaging unit 301 and the second inspection imaging unit 302. When the inspection is performed and it is determined that the tablet T is the first defective product again, the tablet T of the first defective product is discharged again to the first defective product discharging unit 61.

Next, the tablet printing method (reinspection mode) in this apparatus will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.

First, when a plurality of tablets T are charged into the hopper 21 from the charging port 21a of the charging section 2, the tablets T pass through the inside of the hopper 21 and are then discharged to the upstream transport section 3 (S1).

Next, in the upstream transport unit 3, the plurality of tablets T loaded from the loading unit 2 are transported in one direction (rightward in FIG. 1).

Specifically, in the multi-row distribution trough 31, a plurality of tablets T are conveyed while being gradually aligned in the width direction (depth direction in FIG. 1), and then transferred to the ceiling-mounted conveyor 32 on the same plane. (S2).

Then, in the ceiling-mounted conveyor 32, a plurality of tablets T are adsorbed to the timing belt 323 in a ceiling-mounted state, and while being maintained in the ceiling-mounted state, they are transported forward in the transport direction according to the rotation of the timing belt 323, and then mounted. It is delivered to the stationary conveyor 33 on the same plane (S3).

At this time, the first imaging unit 101 does not capture an image of one surface of the tablet T that is conveyed by the ceiling-mounted conveyor 32 in a suspended state and that is exposed to the lower side of the tablet T.

Then, in the stationary conveyor 33, a plurality of tablets are placed on the timing belt 333, and while being kept in the loaded state, they are conveyed forward in the conveying direction according to the rotation of the timing belt 333, and then are not shown in the reversing drum 331. It is adsorbed to the timing belt 333 by the negative pressure chamber and is conveyed downward in a state of being turned upside down according to the rotation of the turning drum 331 (S4).

At this time, the second image capturing unit 102 does not capture an image of the other surface of the tablet T conveyed by the mounting type conveyor 33 in the mounted state, which is exposed on the upper side of the tablet T. Further, the first printing unit 201 does not print the predetermined identification information on the other surface of the tablet T based on the instruction from the control unit 8.

After that, the first inspection imaging unit 301 images the other surface of the tablet T with respect to the tablet T on which the predetermined identification information is printed by the first printing unit 201, and an image of the other surface of the tablet T. The data is transmitted to the control unit 8 (S43). The image data of the other surface of the tablet T by the first inspection imaging unit 301 is used by the control unit 8 to inspect the printing state of the identification information on the other surface (front surface or back surface) of the tablet T.

Next, in the downstream-side transport unit 4, the plurality of tablets T are received from the upstream-side transport unit 3 in a reversed state and transported in the other direction (left direction in FIG. 1).

Specifically, in the placement/ceiling-type conveyor 41, a plurality of tablets T are delivered in a manner of being placed on the timing belt 413 of the placement/ceiling-type conveyor 41, and the placement state is maintained. Meanwhile, as the timing belt 413 rotates, it is transported forward in the transport direction. Then, the tablets T that have reached the reversing drum 411 are adsorbed to the timing belt 413 by the negative pressure chamber, and are conveyed downward in a state of being turned upside down according to the rotation of the reversing drum 411, and then are conveyed as they are in a suspended state ( S5).

At this time, the third image capturing unit 103 does not capture an image of one surface of the plurality of tablets T received from the upstream conveying unit 3 in the state of being turned upside down in the downstream mounting/ceiling-type conveyor 41. .. Further, the second printing unit 202 does not print the predetermined identification information on one surface of the tablet T based on the instruction from the control unit 8.

After that, the second inspection imaging unit 302 images one surface of the tablet T for the tablet T on which the predetermined identification information is printed by the second printing unit 202, and image data of the one surface of the tablet T. Is transmitted to the control unit 8 (S53). The image data of the one surface of the tablet T by the second image capturing unit 302 for inspection is used by the control unit 8 to inspect the printing state of the identification information on the one surface (front surface or back surface) of the tablet T.

Thereafter, the defective product discharge unit 6 supplies air to the predetermined defective product tablets T by air injection units 61a, 62a, 63a provided inside the mounting/ceiling-type conveyor 41 based on a command from the control unit. The defective tablets T are ejected to the ejection boxes 61b, 62b, 63b while dropping downward from the mounting/ceiling-type conveyor 41 by spraying onto the ejection boxes 61b, 62b, 63b. The method of discharging the defective tablet T by the defective product discharging unit 6 is the same as that in the first embodiment (FIG. 9), and thus the description thereof is omitted.

Next, in the drying unit 5, after the plurality of tablets T are transferred on the same plane from the downstream transfer unit 4 onto the mesh belt 513 of the mesh type conveyor 51, the tablets T are placed on the same plane. While maintaining the state, the mesh belt 513 is conveyed forward in the conveying direction according to the rotation of the mesh belt 513. In the conveying process, warm air is blown by a heater (not shown) to dry the printed portion of the identification information on the front surface and the back surface (S6).

Next, in the discharging section 7 of the present apparatus, the non-defective tablets T conveyed while being dried by the drying section 5 are discharged to the outside of the apparatus (S7).

<Third Embodiment>
Next, a third embodiment of the tablet printing apparatus according to the present invention (hereinafter referred to as the present apparatus) will be described.

In the present embodiment, a case of a reprint mode in which the second defective tablet T discharged to the second defective product discharge section 62 is reprinted will be described.

Specifically, when the tablets T discharged to the second defective product discharging section 62 are reloaded to the loading section 21, the first printing section 201 and the second printing section 202 detect the identification information of the tablets T. Predetermined identification information is printed on the unprinted front surface and/or back surface. That is, the control unit 8 prints the identification information on the front surface or the back surface of the tablet T based on the image data of the front surface and the back surface of the tablet T imaged by the first imaging unit 101 and the second imaging unit 102. If it is determined that the tablet T is not present, the first printing unit 201 and the second printing unit 202 print the identification information on the front surface or the back surface on which the identification information of the tablet T is not printed, according to the instruction of the control unit 8. When it is determined that the identification information is printed on the front surface or the back surface of the tablet T, the identification information is not overlapped and printed on the front surface or the back surface of the tablet T.

Then, the first inspection imaging unit 301 and the second inspection imaging unit 302 image the one surface and the other surface of the tablet, and transmit the image data of the one surface and the other surface of the tablet to the control unit 8. .. The control unit 8 inspects the print state of predetermined identification information based on the image data of the front surface and the back surface of the tablet T imaged by the first inspection imaging unit 301 and the second inspection imaging unit 302, and If it is determined that the tablet T is the defective product No. 1, the tablet T of the first defective product is discharged to the first defective product discharging unit 61. When it is determined that the tablet T is a second defective product T, the second defective product T is discharged to the second defective product discharging unit 62. When it is determined that the tablet T is the third defective product T, the tablet T of the third defective product is discharged to the third defective product discharging unit 63.

Since the tablet printing method (reprinting mode) in this apparatus is the same as the normal printing mode shown in the first embodiment, its description is omitted.

In each of the above embodiments, the case where the predetermined identification information is printed on both the front surface and the back surface of the tablet T has been described. However, the predetermined identification information is printed on one surface of the tablet T on the front surface or the back surface. It may be done. In this case, the printing state of the predetermined identification information is inspected on one side of the front surface or the back surface on which the tablets T are printed.

Further, although the third defective product discharge box 63 is provided, the third defective product discharge box 63 may not be provided.

Although the tablet detection unit 64 is provided, it may be omitted.

Further, the method of discharging the tablets T in the tablet discharging unit 6 is not limited to the air injection, and other discharging methods may be used.

Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above with reference to the drawings, the present invention is not limited to the illustrated embodiments. Various modifications and variations can be made to the illustrated embodiment within the same scope as the present invention or within an equivalent scope.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1... Base 2... Input part 21... Hopper 3... Upstream side conveyance part 31... Multi-row distribution trough 32... Ceiling-mounted conveyor 33... Stationary conveyor 4・・・Transfer section on the downstream side 41 ・・・Mounting/ceiling type conveyor 5 ・・・Drying section 51 ・・・Mesh type conveyor 6 ・・・Defective product discharging section 61 ・・・First defective product discharging Part 62... Second defective product discharging part
63... Third defective product discharging unit 64... Tablet detecting unit 7... Non-defective product discharging unit 8... Control unit 101... First imaging unit 102... Second imaging unit 103・・・Third imaging unit 201 ・・・First printing unit 202 ・・・Second printing unit 301 ・・・First inspection imaging unit 302 ・・・Second inspection imaging unit T・..Tablets T1...

Claims (7)

A tablet printing apparatus for printing predetermined identification information on the front surface and/or the back surface of a tablet,
A charging unit for charging a plurality of tablets,
A transport unit that transports a plurality of tablets input from the input unit,
A first defective product discharging unit and a second defective product discharging unit for discharging the defective tablets conveyed by the conveying unit;
With a control unit that controls each unit,
A printing unit that prints predetermined identification information on the front surface and/or the back surface of the tablet in the transport unit, and an inspection that images the front surface and/or the back surface of the tablet on which the predetermined identification information is printed by the printing unit. The imaging unit is arranged,
The control unit inspects the printing state of predetermined identification information based on the image data of the front surface and/or the back surface of the tablet imaged by the inspection imaging unit, and determines the predetermined identification information on the front surface and/or the back surface of the tablet. Is printed, but when it is determined that the printing is a defective tablet, the tablet is discharged to the first defective product discharge portion, and predetermined identification information is printed on the front surface and/or the back surface of the tablet. If it is determined that the tablet is a defective product that has not been discharged, the tablet is discharged to the second defective product discharging unit,
When the tablet discharged to the first defective product discharging section is reloaded to the charging section, the inspection is performed without the printing section printing predetermined identification information on the front surface and/or the back surface of the tablet. The imaging unit for imaging images the front surface and/or the back surface of the tablet,
The control unit inspects the printing state of predetermined identification information based on the image data of the front surface and/or the back surface of the tablet imaged by the inspection imaging unit, and determines the predetermined identification information on the front surface and/or the back surface of the tablet. Although but is printed, if the printing is judged to be a tablet defective, tablet printing apparatus according to claim Rukoto drained the tablet to the first defective discharge unit. When the tablets discharged to the second defective product discharging section are reloaded to the loading section, the printing section outputs predetermined identification information to the front surface and/or the back surface on which the tablet identification information is not printed. After printing, the imaging unit for inspection images the front surface and/or the back surface of the tablet,
The control unit inspects the printing state of predetermined identification information based on the image data of the front surface and/or the back surface of the tablet imaged by the inspection imaging unit, and determines the predetermined identification information on the front surface and/or the back surface of the tablet. Is printed, but when it is determined that the printing is a defective tablet, the tablet is discharged to the first defective product discharge portion, and predetermined identification information is printed on the front surface and/or the back surface of the tablet. The tablet printing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein, when it is determined that the tablet is a defective product that is not stored, the tablet is discharged to the second defective product discharging unit. In addition, it is equipped with a third defective product discharge unit that discharges tablets.
Wherein the control unit according to claim 1 or claim 2 to discharge the tablets of the first defective discharge unit and the second defective that was not discharged by the defective product discharge section to the third defective discharging portion The tablet printing apparatus according to. A first tablet detection unit is provided behind the first defective product discharge unit in the transport direction,
The first tablet detection unit detects the position of the defective tablet conveyed by the conveyance unit,
Wherein the control unit, wherein based on the detection result of the position of the tablet defective by the first tablet detection portion, claim 1 of controlling the discharge timing of the tablets of defective products in the first defective discharging portion Item 4. The tablet printing device according to any one of Item 3 . A second tablet detection unit is provided between the first defective product discharge unit and the second defective product discharge unit,
The second tablet detection unit detects the presence or absence of a defective tablet conveyed by the conveyance unit,
The control unit determines that the defective tablet to be discharged to the first defective product discharging unit is not discharged based on the detection result of the presence or absence of the defective tablet by the second tablet detecting unit. The tablet printing apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the tablet is ejected to the third defective product ejecting unit in the case of doing so. A third tablet detection unit is provided between the second defective product discharging unit and the third defective product discharging unit,
The third tablet detection unit detects the presence or absence of defective tablets conveyed by the conveyance unit,
The control unit determines that the defective tablet to be discharged to the second defective product discharging unit is not discharged based on the detection result of the presence or absence of the defective tablet by the third tablet detecting unit. The tablet printing apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the tablet is ejected to the third defective product ejecting unit in the case of doing so. A fourth tablet detection unit is provided in front of the third defective product discharge unit in the transport direction,
The fourth tablet detection unit detects the presence or absence of defective tablets conveyed by the conveyance unit,
The control unit, based on the detection result of the presence or absence of a defective tablet by the fourth tablet detection unit, the first defective product discharge unit, the second defective product discharge unit, and the third defective product. If any of the defective tablets to be discharged to the defective discharging portion of the discharge portion is determined not to be discharged, tablet printing apparatus according to claim 3 for stopping the device.