JP7022225B1 - Data management system - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a data management system capable of more strictly satisfying a requirement for simultaneity in stored data. A control device 130 and a processing determination device 140 include a local clock unit 150 and a local storage unit 160. The time of each local clock unit 150 is corrected based on the reference time information from the reference time generation unit 122. The local storage unit 160 stores data and data generation time information each time data is generated. The data stored in the local storage unit 160 and the data generation time information are transmitted to the data storage server 120 and stored in the main storage unit 121. As a result, the times indicated by the local clock units 150 are substantially the same, and the generation time of the data stored in the main storage unit 121 becomes more accurate. As a result, the requirement for simultaneity can be more stringently met in this stored data. [Selection diagram] Fig. 1

Description

The present invention relates to a system for storing and managing data related to the operation of production-related equipment.

Conventionally, various production-related devices have been used at product manufacturing sites. For example, in a line related to the production of blister sheets (for example, PTP sheets) generally used in the fields of pharmaceuticals and foodstuffs, blister packaging machines, integration devices, packaging devices and the like are used as production-related devices. The blister packaging machine is provided with a means for forming a pocket portion in the container film, a means for accommodating contents (for example, tablets) in the pocket portion, a means for attaching a cover film to the container film, and the like, and manufactures a blister sheet. .. The stacking device stacks the manufactured blister sheets in units of a plurality of sheets. The packaging device performs processing such as band binding, pillow packaging, and boxing on a plurality of integrated blister sheets. In addition, the blister packaging machine and the packaging device may be provided with an inspection device for determining the quality of the contents, sheets, packaging, and the like. Such inspection equipment can also be said to be production-related equipment.

In addition, when a product abnormality is found during production, from the viewpoint of preventing recurrence, the problematic process, the time when the abnormality occurs, the number of abnormal products manufactured, various setting information related to manufacturing, etc. (for example, temperature, pressure, etc.) Etc. are investigated. In order to carry out such an investigation, it is necessary to save various data related to manufacturing and the like. Here, considering the ease of investigation and the like, it is preferable to store the data in the form of electronic data. However, since electronic data is easy to change or delete, it is necessary to take measures to ensure the integrity of the information.

As a guideline for ensuring the integrity of data, the guideline (ALCOA principle) established by the FDA (US Food and Drug Administration) is known. The ALCOA Principles have five requirements. The first requirement is Attributable, the second requirement is Legible, the third requirement is Contemporary, and the fourth requirement is Original. Yes, the fifth requirement is accuracy. In particular, simultaneity means that data is immediately stored when it is generated (when processing is executed), and in order to satisfy the simultaneity, it is necessary to store the data generation time.

In recent years, in order to strictly comply with the above-mentioned third requirement (simultaneity), control processing means (processing means), data storage server (server computer), network (information connection means) and drive regulation means are provided. , A system has been proposed in which the drive of a device (for example, the above-mentioned production-related device) is restricted when the control processing means, the network or the data storage server does not function, and the data is stored only in the data storage server together with the generation time. (For example, refer to Patent Document 1 and the like).

In this system, the control processing means performs control processing related to the operation of the device, and the network performs information transmission between the control processing means and the data storage server. Further, while the processing application for driving the device is stored in the control processing means, the setting information for executing this processing application is stored in the data storage server. Therefore, if there is an abnormality in the network or the data storage server, the control processing means cannot read the setting information from the data storage server, and the drive (particularly startup) of the device is restricted. As a result, if there is an abnormality in the network, data storage server, or control processing means, the data to be stored does not occur, and as a result, the data stored in the data storage server together with the time meets the requirement for simultaneity. It is said that the data will be complete.

Japanese Patent No. 6762593

However, in the above system, if an abnormality occurs in the data storage server or the network after the device is started once, the data storage server cannot store the data. Therefore, when an abnormality occurs, it is conceivable to temporarily stop the device, but since the data related to the stop of the device cannot be stored in the data storage server, the device cannot be stopped. On the other hand, even if the device is to be continuously operated, the data in operation cannot be stored in the data storage server, so that the device cannot be continuously operated.

The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object thereof is to be able to store data even when an abnormality occurs in a data storage server or a network, and at the same time, the stored data is simultaneous. The purpose is to provide a data management system that can meet the requirements of.

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

Means 1. A data management system that manages data related to the operation of multiple production-related devices.
A plurality of control processing devices having a local clock means for measuring a time and a local storage means capable of storing the data, and being provided for each of the plurality of production-related devices and performing control processing related to the corresponding production-related devices. When,
A reference time generation means configured to generate a reference time and to transmit reference time information which is information related to the reference time.
It has a main storage means capable of storing the data, and is provided with a data storage server provided separately from the control processing device.
The reference time generation means can transmit the reference time information to the control processing apparatus via a predetermined network at predetermined time intervals or based on a predetermined request.
The control processing device is
The time in the local clock means can be corrected based on the reference time information transmitted from the reference time generation means via the network.
Each time the data is generated, the data generation time information, which is the information related to the time indicated by the local clock means when the data is generated, can be stored in the local storage means.
The data stored in the local storage means and the data generation time information can be transmitted to the data storage server via the network.
It is possible to confirm that the data storage server and the network are functioning.
The corresponding production-related equipment can be started, provided that the data storage server and the network are functioning.
The data storage server is a data management system capable of storing the data and the data generation time information transmitted from the control processing device via the network in the main storage means.

The data refers to operation information (start, stop, setting change, etc.) for the production-related equipment and status information indicating the status of the production-related equipment. For example, when the production-related device is a blister packaging machine for manufacturing a blister sheet, the state information includes the filling speed of the contents in the pocket portion, the heating temperature when the cover film is heat-welded to the container film, and the like. It refers to the applied pressure, error occurrence information, etc. Further, for example, when the production-related device is a packaging device that wraps or packs the integrated blister sheets, the state information means, for example, packaging speed or error occurrence information. Further, when the production-related device is an inspection device, the state information means brightness and error occurrence information due to lighting.

Further, the “predetermined request” means a request sent from the control processing device to the reference time generation means, a request automatically generated by the reference time generation means, and the like. The timing of this request is as follows: when the control processing device is started, when the connection between the control processing device and the network is established, when the reference time or the time indicated by the local clock means becomes a preset time, the production-related device is started. You can mention the time.

According to the above means 1, the control processing device that performs the control processing of the production-related device can confirm that the data storage server and the network are (normally) functioning, and it is a condition that these are functioning. As a result, it is possible to start the corresponding production-related equipment. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the production-related device from starting in a state where the data cannot be stored in the data storage server, and it is possible to more reliably ensure the integrity of the data stored in the data storage server.

Further, the control processing device stores the data and the data generation time information related to the data in the local storage means each time the data is generated. Then, the data stored in the local storage means and the data generation time information are transmitted to the data storage server via the network. The data storage server stores the data transmitted from the control processing device and the data generation time information in the main storage means. Since the data and the like are temporarily stored in the local storage means in this way, even if an abnormality occurs in the data storage server or the network, the data or the like can be continuously stored. Therefore, if an abnormality occurs in the data storage server or network, the operation of the production-related device is continued to store the data in operation, or the production-related device is stopped to store the data related to the stop. Can be done. Therefore, when an abnormality occurs in the data storage server or the network, it is possible to appropriately select whether to continue or stop the operation of the production-related device without causing concern about the storage of data or the like.

In addition, since the data or the like is stored in the local storage means, it is possible to more reliably prevent the loss of data due to an abnormality in the data storage server or the network. As a result, the integrity of the data stored in the data storage server can be more reliably ensured.

Further, the control processing device corrects the time in the local clock means based on the reference time information transmitted from the reference time generation means via the network. Therefore, the time indicated by each local clock means can be substantially matched in the plurality of control processing devices, and each control processing device can obtain the data generation time using a unified reference (reference time). As a result, the time of occurrence of the data stored in the data storage server (main storage means) can be made more accurate. As a result, the requirement of simultaneity can be more strictly satisfied in the data stored in the data storage server.

Means 2. The data management system according to means 1, wherein the data storage server includes the reference time generation means.

According to the above means 2, the control processing device can confirm that the data storage server and the network are functioning (normally) by receiving the reference time signal. Therefore, the reception of the reference time signal also serves as confirmation that the data storage server and the network are functioning, and it is not necessary for the control processing device to perform any special operation for this confirmation. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the processing load in the control processing device.

Means 3. The control processing device can transmit the transmission time information, which is the information related to the time indicated by the local clock means at the time of transmitting the data and the data generation time information to the data storage server, to the data storage server.
The data according to means 2, wherein the data storage server can compare the reference time indicated by the reference time generation means when the transmission time information is received with the time based on the transmission time information. Management system.

According to the above means 3, the data storage server can compare the reference time indicated by the reference time generation means when the transmission time information is received with the time based on the transmission time information. Therefore, it is possible to grasp whether the time indicated by the local clock means of each control processing means is appropriate and take measures based on the grasped result. For example, when the error between the reference time and the time indicated by the local clock means exceeds a certain value, the time interval for transmitting the reference time signal is shortened so that the times indicated by each local clock means are matched more accurately. Etc. are possible.

Means 4. In the control processing device, the data storage server and the network are functioning, and the reference time information is transmitted from the reference time generation means via the network, and the local clock is based on the reference time information. The data management system according to any one of means 1 to 3, wherein the corresponding production-related device can be started on condition that the time in the means has been corrected.

According to the above means 4, the control processing device enables the corresponding production-related device to be started after the time in the local clock means is corrected based on the reference time signal. Therefore, at the time of starting the production-related device, the time of each local clock means can be adjusted to the reference time, and the requirement of simultaneity can be more strictly satisfied in the data stored in the data storage server.

Means 5. The means 1 to 4 characterized in that the control processing device makes it impossible to start the corresponding production-related device when a predetermined time or more has elapsed since the last time adjustment in the local clock means was performed. The data management system described in any of.

According to the above means 5, the control processing device makes it impossible to start the corresponding production-related device when the time of the local clock means has not been adjusted for a predetermined time or more. Therefore, when there is a possibility that the time of the local clock means is relatively significantly different from the reference time, the production-related equipment cannot be started, and eventually the data related to the operation of the production-related equipment is not stored. Can be done. Therefore, the requirement of simultaneity can be more strictly satisfied in the data stored in the data storage server (main storage means).

Means 6. At least one of the production-related devices is a blister sheet in which a tablet is filled in a pocket formed in a container film and a cover film is attached to the container film so as to close the pocket. Is a blister packaging machine for manufacturing,
The blister packaging machine is
A filling means for filling the pocket portion with tablets,
A storage means for storing tablets supplied to the filling means is provided.
When at least one of the data storage server and the network is not functioning, the control processing device that performs the control processing related to the blister packaging machine operates the blister packaging machine until at least the storage means is empty. The data management system according to any one of means 1 to 5, wherein the data is continued.

Immediately shutting down the blister pack when it is determined that the data storage server and / or network is not functioning (normally) can leave the tablets stored in the storage means. Since the tablets stored in the storage means may be exposed to air, moisture, etc., when the operation of the blister packaging machine is restarted, abnormalities such as changes in the components occur, and the tablets become unsuitable for use. There is a risk of being there. Therefore, such tablets have to be disposed of, which may lead to an increase in manufacturing cost.

In this regard, according to the above means 6, the control processing device that performs the control processing related to the blister packing machine is at least until the tablets stored in the storage means are used up when the data storage server and / or the network is not functioning. , Continue the operation of the blister packing machine. Therefore, it is possible to more reliably prevent the tablets from being wastefully disposed of, and it is possible to suppress an increase in manufacturing cost.

It is a block diagram which shows the schematic structure of a data management system. It is a perspective view of a PTP sheet. It is a partially enlarged sectional view of a PTP sheet. It is a schematic diagram which shows the schematic structure of a PTP packaging machine and the like. It is a figure for demonstrating the process performed by a control apparatus and a process determination apparatus.

Hereinafter, one embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. As shown in FIG. 1, in the present embodiment, the data management system 100 is a production line 200 of a PTP sheet 1 (see FIG. 2) as a blister sheet, and an inspection device provided corresponding to the production line 200. It is applied to 70. Prior to the description of the data management system 100, the PTP sheet 1, the production line 200, and the inspection device 70 will be described.

First, the PTP sheet 1 will be described. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the PTP sheet 1 has a container film 3 provided with a plurality of pocket portions 2 and a cover film 4 attached to the container film 3 so as to close the pocket portions 2. ing. The container film 3 is formed of a transparent thermoplastic resin material such as PP (polypropylene) or PVC (polyvinyl chloride). On the other hand, the cover film 4 is made of an opaque material (for example, aluminum foil or the like) provided with a sealant made of polypropylene resin or the like on the surface thereof. Each pocket portion 2 contains one tablet 5 as a "content". The materials of the films 3 and 4, the number and position of the pocket portions 2, the contents accommodated in the pocket portions 2, and the like are not limited to the above, and may be appropriately changed.

Next, the production line 200 of the PTP sheet 1 will be described. As shown in FIG. 1, the production line 200 includes a PTP packaging machine 10, an integration device 50, and a packaging device 60 in order from the upstream side. In this embodiment, the PTP packaging machine 10 constitutes a "blister packaging machine". Further, in the present embodiment, the PTP packaging machine 10, the integration device 50, the packaging device 60, and the inspection device 70 each constitute a “production-related device”.

First, the PTP packaging machine 10 will be described. As shown in FIG. 4, on the most upstream side of the PTP packaging machine 10, the original fabric of the strip-shaped container film 3 is provided, and the container film 3 sent out from the strip-shaped container film 3 is conveyed through a predetermined route. The PTP packaging machine 10 includes a preheating device 15, a pocket portion forming device 16, a filling device 21, a sealing device 25, a slit forming device 33, a marking device 34, and a sheet stamping in order from the upstream side along the transport path of the container film 3. The punching device 37 is provided. Further, a storage device 20 is provided corresponding to the filling device 21. In the present embodiment, the storage device 20 constitutes a "storage means", and the filling device 21 constitutes a "filling means".

The preheating device 15 preheats the container film 3. The pocket portion forming device 16 forms the pocket portion 2 on the preheated container film 3 by using a predetermined mold or the like.

The filling device 21 includes a cylindrical chute that stores the tablets 5 in a row, and a shutter that can open and close the outlet of the chute (not shown), and the shutter is released at a predetermined timing. By opening, the pocket portion 2 is filled with the tablet 5. The filling device 21 may be provided with an adsorption drum (not shown) capable of adsorbing the tablet 5 and may fill the pocket portion 2 with the tablet 5 by releasing the adsorption.

The storage device 20 can store a large number of tablets 5, and the stored tablets 5 are sequentially supplied to the filling device 21.

The sealing device 25 includes a heating roll 25a having a heating function and a film feed roll 25b for continuously transporting the container film 3, and attaches the cover film 4 to the container film 3 so as to close the pocket portion 2. .. More specifically, the cover film 4 is guided to the heating roll 25a, and the container film 3 and the cover film 4 pass between the rolls 25a and 25b in a heat-pressed state, so that the cover film 4 passes through the container film 3. Is attached. By attaching the cover film 4 to the container film 3, a strip-shaped PTP film 6 in which the tablets 5 are housed in the pocket portions 2 is manufactured.

The slit forming device 33 forms a slit for cutting at a predetermined position of the PTP film 6. The marking device 34 marks a predetermined position (for example, a tag portion) of the PTP film 6. In FIG. 2, the slits for cutting and the markings are not shown.

The sheet punching device 37 has a function of punching the outer edge of the PTP film 6 in units of one PTP sheet, that is, separating the PTP sheet 1 from the PTP film 6.

The PTP sheet 1 obtained by the sheet punching device 37 is conveyed to the integrating device 50 by the conveyor 39. However, when a defect determination is made by the processing determination device 140 described later, the PTP sheet 1 related to this defect determination is not sent to the integration device 50, but is separately discharged by a defect sheet ejection mechanism (not shown). The scrap portion remaining after punching in the PTP film 6 is cut to a predetermined size by the cutting device 41 and then stored in the scrap hopper 43.

In the PTP packaging machine 10, the transport mode of the container film 3 and the PTP film 6 is appropriately changed to continuous transport or intermittent transport in order to correspond to each process performed by the above-mentioned various devices. In order to prevent the container film 3 and the like from loosening due to such a change in the transport mode, a tension roll for keeping the tension of the container film 3 and the like within a certain range is provided at a predetermined position in the transport path of the container film 3 and the like. It is provided.

Returning to FIG. 1, the integration device 50 stacks the supplied PTP sheets 1 in predetermined numbers, and then delivers the stacked PTP sheets 1 to the packaging device 60 in charge of the next process.

The packaging device 60 includes a pillow wrapping machine, a band-hanging wrapping machine, a boxing device, and the like, and the PTP sheet 1 is packed in a box by performing a packaging process and a boxing process on the PTP sheet 1 delivered from the integration device 50. Manufacture a sheet package that is packed. This sheet package is finally shipped.

The inspection device 70 is provided corresponding to the PTP packaging machine 10 and the packaging device 60, and is a device for inspecting the object to be inspected. In the case of the inspection device 70 provided in the PTP packaging machine 10, the inspection target is a sheet portion such as a tablet 5 or a container film 3. In the case of the inspection device 70 provided in the packaging device 60, the object to be inspected is a sheet package.

In the present embodiment, a plurality of inspection devices 70 are provided, and each inspection device 70 is installed at an appropriate position according to the content to be inspected. For example, the inspection device 70, which is in charge of inspecting the appearance of the tablet 5 filled in the pocket portion 2 and the inclusion of foreign matter in the pocket portion 2, is provided along the transport path of the container film 3 immediately downstream of the filling device 21. (See Fig. 4).

Further, the inspection device 70 (not shown in FIG. 4) in charge of visual inspection of the tablet 5 before filling the pocket portion 2 corresponds to the transport path of the tablet 5 upstream from the filling position of the tablet 5 in the pocket portion 2. It is provided. Further, an inspection device 70 (not shown in FIG. 4) in charge of inspecting the sealing state of the PTP film 6 is provided along the transport path of the PTP film 6 immediately downstream of the sealing device 25. In addition, the inspection device 70, which is in charge of inspecting the appearance and weight of the sheet package, is provided along the transport path of the sheet package in the packaging device 60.

Each inspection device 70 has various means for acquiring various inspection information (for example, image data of the object to be inspected, weight of the object to be inspected, etc.) related to the object to be inspected (for example, a lighting device, a camera, and a weight measurement). Equipment etc.). A processing determination device 140, which will be described later, is provided corresponding to each inspection device 70, and each inspection device 70 sends information acquired by using the various means to the corresponding processing determination device 140. For example, the inspection device 70 (see FIG. 4) in charge of inspecting the appearance of the tablet 5 filled in the pocket portion 2 is a camera in a state where the tablet 5 and the container film 3 are irradiated with predetermined light from the lighting device. The tablet 5 and the container film 3 are imaged with. Then, the inspection device 70 sends the image data obtained by imaging to the processing determination device 140 corresponding to the inspection device 70.

Next, the data management system 100 will be described. The data management system 100 centrally stores and manages data related to the operation of each device (PTP packaging machine 10 or the like) constituting the production line 200 and each inspection device 70 together with the generation time of the data. The data management system 100 includes a network 110, a data storage server 120, a control device 130, and a processing determination device 140. In the present embodiment, a plurality of control devices 130 and a plurality of processing determination devices 140 are provided (however, in FIG. 1, only one processing determination device 140 is shown). The control device 130 and the processing determination device 140 correspond to "control processing devices", respectively.

The network 110 is composed of, for example, a local area network line, and enables communication between a plurality of control devices 130, a plurality of processing determination devices 140, and a data storage server 120, respectively. The network 110 includes an upstream network 111, a downstream network 112, a relay device 113, and the like.

The upstream network 111 is responsible for communication between the plurality of processing determination devices 140, the data storage server 120, and the relay device 113. The downstream network 112 is responsible for communication between the plurality of control devices 130 and the relay device 113.

The relay device 113 includes a CPU as a calculation means, a ROM for storing various programs, a RAM for temporarily storing various data, a storage medium for long-term storage of information (for example, memory, HDD, SSD, etc.) and the like. It is composed of a computer system. The relay device 113 includes a storage unit 113a made of the storage medium. Various programs and parameters related to communication relay are stored in the storage unit 113a. The relay device 113 relays communication between the upstream network 111 and the downstream network 112 based on a program or the like stored in the storage unit 113a.

The data storage server 120 stores data related to the operation of each device constituting the production line 200 and each inspection device 70, and the time when the data is generated. The data storage server 120 is composed of a computer system including a CPU, RAM, ROM, a storage medium, and the like.

The data storage server 120 includes a main storage unit 121 and a reference time generation unit 122. In the present embodiment, the main storage unit 121 constitutes the "main storage means", and the reference time generation unit 122 constitutes the "reference time generation means".

The main storage unit 121 is composed of the storage medium, and stores data and data generation time information sent from the control device 130 and the processing determination device 140. The data generation time information is information indicating the time when data related to the operation of each device constituting the production line 200 and each inspection device 70 is generated.

The reference time generation unit 122 is configured by a clock function in the data storage server 120, and generates a reference time. The reference time is a reference for adjusting the time in a plurality of local clock units 150, which will be described later. The reference time generation unit 122 transmits the reference time information, which is information indicating the reference time, to the control device 130 and the processing determination device 140 via the network 110. The reference time information is transmitted at predetermined time intervals set in advance or based on a predetermined request.

The "predetermined request" is a request for transmitting reference time information sent from the control device 130 or the processing determination device 140 to the reference time generation unit 122, or a reference time automatically generated by the reference time generation unit 122. A request to send information. As the timing of this request, when the control device 130 or the processing determination device 140 is started, when the connection between the control device 130 or the processing determination device 140 and the network 110 is established, the reference time or the time indicated by the local clock unit 150 is preset. When the time comes, the time when the production-related equipment such as the PTP packaging machine 10 is started can be mentioned.

In the present embodiment, the reference time information is basically transmitted at predetermined time intervals (for example, every 24 hours). Further, the reference time information is also transmitted when the control device 130 and the processing determination device 140 are started.

Further, the data storage server 120 can receive transmission time information described later from the control device 130 and the processing determination device 140. Then, the data storage server 120 performs transmission processing of data and the like by the reference time indicated by the reference time generation unit 122 when the transmission time information is received and the time based on the transmission time information (that is, the control device 130 or the like). Time) and compare. Then, when the difference between the two times is not more than a predetermined value, the data storage server 120 determines that the time indicated by the local clock unit 150, which will be described later, is appropriate. On the other hand, when the difference between the two times exceeds a predetermined value, it is determined that the time indicated by the local clock unit 150 is inappropriate. When it is determined that there is an inappropriateness, the data storage server 120 takes measures such as shortening the transmission interval of the reference time information in order to match the time indicated by each local clock unit 150 more accurately. If the time difference between the two times exceeds a predetermined value, the data storage server 120 may notify the outside that there is an abnormality in the time.

Further, in the present embodiment, the data storage server 120 (reference time generation unit 122) is connected to the upstream network 111 by wire. Therefore, it is possible to improve the communication stability related to the transmission of the reference time information as compared with the wireless connection. The connection mode of the control device 130 and the processing determination device 140 to the network 110 may be wired or wireless.

Further, in the storage medium of the data storage server 120, the programs and parameters for operating each device constituting the production line 200 and each inspection device 70 transmitted from the control device 130 and the processing determination device 140 are stored as a backup. It is possible.

In addition, only a limited number of administrators have access authority to the data storage server 120, and a general worker can access the data storage server 120 to store information and a reference time in the main storage unit 121. The reference time in the generation unit 122 cannot be changed or deleted.

The control device 130 is provided for each of the PTP packaging machine 10, the integration device 50, and the packaging device 60, and performs control processing in the corresponding device. That is, one control device 130 controls the operation of the PTP packaging machine 10, another one control device 130 controls the operation of the integration device 50, and another control device 130 controls the operation of the packaging device 60. Operation control is performed.

Each control device 130 is composed of a computer system including a CPU, RAM, ROM, a storage medium, and the like, and the storage medium stores programs and parameters for controlling the operation of the device. Each control device 130 controls the operation of the corresponding device based on the stored program and parameters. For example, the control device 130 corresponding to the PTP packaging machine 10 starts and stops each device (pocket portion forming device 16, filling device 21, sealing device 25, sheet punching device 37, etc.) constituting the PTP packaging machine 10. Controls operation timing, operation speed, heating temperature, heating time, applied pressure, etc.

The processing determination device 140 is provided for each inspection device 70, and performs control processing in the corresponding device. Each processing determination device 140 is composed of a computer system including a RAM, a ROM, a storage medium, and the like, and the storage medium is used for inspection processing based on operation control of the inspection device 70 and information sent from the inspection device 70. The program and parameters for performing the above are stored. Each processing determination device 140 controls the operation of the inspection device 70 (for example, start / stop, image pickup timing by the camera, illumination brightness, etc.) based on the stored program and parameters, and determines the quality of the inspection target. To do.

Further, each control device 130 and each processing determination device 140 (hereinafter, simply referred to as “each control device 130 or the like”) provides a program and parameters for operating the corresponding device at a predetermined timing via the network 110. It is transmitted to the data storage server 120. As described above, this program and the like are stored as a backup in the data storage server 120.

Further, each control device 130 or the like includes a local clock unit 150 for measuring the time and a local storage unit 160 for storing data related to the operation of the corresponding device. In the present embodiment, the local clock unit 150 constitutes the "local clock means", and the local storage unit 160 constitutes the "local storage means". The local clock unit 150 is configured by a clock function of each control device 130 or the like.

Each control device 130 or the like corrects the time in the local clock unit 150 based on the reference time information transmitted from the reference time generation unit 122 via the network 110. As a result, the time indicated by the local clock unit 150 almost coincides with the reference time unless there is an abnormality in the network 110 or the like.

Further, each control device 130 or the like locally stores data generation time information, which is information related to the time indicated by the local clock unit 150 when the data is generated and the data is generated in the corresponding device. It is stored in the unit 160 (see FIG. 5). The "data" includes operation information for the device (for example, logs related to start, stop, setting change, etc.) and device status information (heating temperature, applied pressure, error occurrence, brightness of the lighting device, etc.). Good / bad judgment result, etc.), which means information necessary for reproduction and verification of events by the device. Such data is generated when an operation is performed or a state is confirmed.

Further, each control device 130 and the like transmits the data stored in the local storage unit 160 and the data generation time information to the data storage server 120 via the network 110 (see FIG. 5). For transmission of these data and the like, for example, every time the time of the local clock unit 150 becomes a preset predetermined time, the size of the data and the like stored in the local storage unit 160 is determined at each preset time interval. It is performed every time a quantification is reached or every time data or the like is stored. Before the data and the data generation time information are stored in the local storage unit 160, these data and the like are not transmitted to the data storage server 120.

In addition, each control device 130 or the like can transmit transmission time information, which is information related to the time indicated by the local clock unit 150 at the time of transmitting the data or the like to the data storage server 120, to the data storage server 120 via the network 110. It is said that. In the present embodiment, when the control device 130 and the like transmit the data and the data generation time information, the transmission time information is transmitted to the data storage server 120 together with the data and the like (see FIG. 5).

At the same time, each control device 130 and the like can confirm that the data storage server 120 and the network 110 are functioning normally. In the present embodiment, each control device 130 and the like confirm that the data storage server 120 and the network 110 are functioning normally based on whether or not the reference time information is received at a predetermined time. Each control device 130 or the like transmits a predetermined confirmation signal to the data storage server 120 via the network 110, and based on whether or not a reaction signal for the transmission is received from the data storage server 120, for example. It may be possible to confirm that the data storage server 120 and the network 110 are functioning normally. When the network 110 and each control device 130 are wirelessly connected, a short-time communication stop may occur due to the nature of the wireless connection, but in the above confirmation, such a communication stop is set to be ignored. It is preferable to do so.

Further, each control device 130 or the like starts or stops the PTP packaging machine 10, the integration device 50, the packaging device 60, and the inspection device 70 when a predetermined start signal or stop signal is input via a predetermined input means. .. However, in the present embodiment, the start conditions of the device (PTP packaging machine 10 or the like) are set as follows in each control device 130 or the like. That is, the first activation condition is that the data storage server 120 and the network 110 are functioning normally. The second activation condition is that the time in the local clock unit 150 is corrected based on the transmitted reference time information. The third activation condition is that a predetermined time (for example, 24 hours or the like) or more has not elapsed since the time was adjusted in the local clock unit 150. Each control device 130 or the like can start the device (PTP packaging machine 10 or the like) only when all of these start conditions are satisfied.

In addition, it has been confirmed that at least one of the data storage server 120 and the network 110 of each control device 130 and the like is not functioning normally after the corresponding PTP packaging machine 10 and the inspection device 70 and the like are started. If so, the following operations are performed.

That is, the control device 130 that performs the control process related to the PTP packaging machine 10 continues the operation of the PTP packaging machine 10 until at least the storage device 20 is empty. In particular, in the present embodiment, the control device 130 is a PTP packaging machine 10 until the storage device 20 is emptied and the PTP sheet 1 can be obtained by using the tablets 5 stored in the storage device 20. Continue operation. Then, the control device 130 stops the PTP packaging machine 10 at the stage where the tablets 5 are insufficient and the PTP sheet 1 cannot be obtained.

Further, the control device 130 that performs the control process related to the integration device 50 continues the operation of the integration device 50 so as to stack the PTP sheets 1 until the PTP sheets 1 sent from the PTP packaging machine 10 are insufficient. Then, the control device 130 stops the integration device 50 when the PTP packaging machine 10 is stopped and a predetermined number of PTP sheets 1 cannot be stacked.

Further, the control device 130 that performs the control processing related to the packaging device 60 continues the operation of the packaging device 60 until the packaging processing and the boxing processing are performed on all the PTP sheets 1 delivered from the integrating device 50. Then, the control device 130 stops the packaging device 60 when the packaging processing for all the PTP sheets 1 is completed.

In addition, the processing determination device 140 that performs the control processing related to the inspection device 70 continues the operation of the inspection device 70 while the PTP packaging machine 10 and the packaging device 60 continue to operate. Then, the processing determination device 140 stops the inspection device 70 in accordance with the stop of the PTP packaging machine 10 and the packaging device 60.

When the network 110 or the data storage server 120 is not functioning normally as described above, the data and the data generation time information are continuously stored in the local storage unit 160 even when the production or the inspection is continued. Further, when the PTP packaging machine 10 or the inspection device 70 is stopped, the data related to the stop and the data generation time information are stored in the local storage unit 160. Then, the stored data and the like are transmitted to the data storage server 120 via the network 110 at the stage when the network 110 and the data storage server 120 are restored and function normally.

When it is confirmed that the data storage server 120 or the network 110 is not functioning normally, the PTP packaging machine 10 and the inspection device 70 may be stopped immediately. The data related to this stop and the data generation time information are stored in the local storage unit 160.

As described in detail above, according to the present embodiment, the control device 130 and the like can confirm that the data storage server 120 and the network 110 are functioning (normally), and these are functioning. The corresponding PTP packaging machine 10, the inspection device 70, and the like can be started under the condition of. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the PTP packaging machine 10 and the like from starting in a state where the data cannot be stored in the data storage server 120, and it is possible to more reliably ensure the integrity of the data stored in the data storage server 120.

Further, since the data and the data generation time information are stored in the local storage unit 160 before being transmitted to the data storage server 120, even if an abnormality occurs in the data storage server 120 or the network 110, the data or the like is stored. You can continue. Therefore, if an abnormality occurs in the data storage server 120 or the network 110, the operation of the PTP packaging machine 10 or the like is continued to store the data in operation, or the PTP packaging machine 10 or the like is stopped. Data related to suspension can be stored. Therefore, when an abnormality occurs in the data storage server 120 or the network 110, it is possible to appropriately select whether to continue or stop the operation of the PTP packaging machine 10 or the like without causing concern about storage of data or the like.

In addition, since the data or the like is stored in the local storage unit 160, it is possible to more reliably prevent the loss of data due to an abnormality in the data storage server 120 or the network 110. As a result, the integrity of the data stored in the data storage server 120 can be more reliably ensured.

Further, each control device 130 and the like corrects the time in the local clock unit 150 based on the reference time information transmitted from the reference time generation unit 122 via the network 110. Therefore, the times indicated by the plurality of local clock units 150 can be substantially matched, and each control device 130 and the like can obtain the data generation time using a unified reference (reference time). As a result, the generation time of the data stored in the data storage server 120 (main storage unit 121) can be made more accurate. As a result, the requirement of simultaneity can be more strictly satisfied in the data stored in the data storage server 120.

Further, each control device 130 and the like can start the corresponding PTP packaging machine 10 and the inspection device 70 after correcting the time in the local clock unit 150 based on the reference time signal. Therefore, when the PTP packaging machine 10 or the like is started, the time of each local clock unit 150 can be adjusted to the reference time, and the data stored in the data storage server 120 can more strictly satisfy the requirement of simultaneity. It becomes.

At the same time, each control device 130 or the like makes it impossible to start the corresponding PTP packaging machine 10 or the inspection device 70 or the like if the time of the local clock unit 150 has not been adjusted for a predetermined period or longer. Therefore, when there is a possibility that the time of the local clock unit 150 is relatively significantly different from the reference time, the PTP packaging machine 10 or the like cannot be started, and the data related to the operation of the PTP packaging machine 10 or the like is stored. It can be prevented from being done. Therefore, the requirement of simultaneity can be more strictly satisfied in the data stored in the data storage server 120 (main storage unit 121).

Further, in the present embodiment, the data storage server 120 includes a reference time generation unit 122. Therefore, each control device 130 and the like can confirm that the data storage server 120 and the network 110 are functioning (normally) by receiving the reference time signal. Therefore, the reception of the reference time signal also serves as confirmation that the data storage server 120 and the network 110 are functioning, and it is not necessary for each control device 130 or the like to perform a special operation for this confirmation. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the processing load on each control device 130 and the like.

In addition, the data storage server 120 can compare the reference time indicated by the reference time generation unit 122 when the transmission time information is received with the time based on the transmission time information. As a result, it is possible to grasp whether the time indicated by each local clock unit 150 is appropriate and take measures based on the grasped result.

Further, when the data storage server 120 and / or the network 110 is not functioning, the control device 130 that performs the control process related to the PTP packaging machine 10 uses PTP packaging at least until the tablets 5 stored in the storage device 20 are used up. Continue the operation of the machine 10. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the tablet 5 from being left for a long time in the storage device 20, and it is possible to more reliably prevent the tablet 5 from being wasted. As a result, it is possible to suppress an increase in manufacturing cost.

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

(A) In the above embodiment, the start conditions of the PTP packaging machine 10 and the inspection device 70 are that the data storage server 120 and the network 110 are functioning normally, and that the time in the local clock unit 150 is set based on the reference time information. It is said that the time has been corrected and that the time has not passed since the time of the local clock unit 150 was adjusted. On the other hand, the start condition may be changed as appropriate. For example, the condition relating to the time adjustment in the local clock unit 150 may not be included in the start condition. In this case, when the PTP packaging machine 10 or the inspection device 70 is started, the control device 130 or the processing determination device 140 is related to the transmission of the reference time signal to the data storage server 120 (reference time generation unit 122). It may be configured to send a request and correct the time in the local clock unit 150 based on the reference time signal received as a reply to this request.

(B) In the above embodiment, the reference time generation unit 122 is provided in the data storage server 120, but the reference time generation unit may be provided separately from the data storage server 120. For example, the reference time generation unit may be a device connected to the network 110 (for example, the upstream network 111) independently of the data storage server 120, the control device 130, and the processing determination device 140. Further, at least one of the control devices 130 and the like may be configured to include a reference time generation unit.

(C) In the above embodiment, the data management system 100 is applied to the production / inspection of the PTP sheet 1, but the data management system may be applied to the production / inspection of products other than the PTP sheet 1.

(D) In the above embodiment, only one reference time generation unit 122 is provided, but a plurality of reference time generation units may be provided so that the reference time signal is transmitted from each reference time generation unit. good. In this case, the time of the local clock unit 150 is corrected based on the reference time signal transmitted from each reference time generation unit. Further, in this case, it may be possible to determine whether or not the reference time generated by each reference time generation unit is appropriate by comparing a plurality of reference time signals (a plurality of reference times). The main body of this determination is not particularly limited, and may be, for example, each control device 130 or the like, or may be a reference time generation unit.

1 ... PTP sheet (blister sheet), 2 ... pocket part, 3 ... container film, 4 ... cover film, 5 ... tablet, 10 ... PTP packaging machine (production-related equipment, blister packaging machine), 20 ... storage device (storage means) ), 21 ... Filling device (filling means), 50 ... Integrated device (production-related device), 60 ... Packaging device (production-related device), 70 ... Inspection device (production-related device), 100 ... Data management system, 110 ... Network , 120 ... Data storage server, 121 ... Main storage unit (main storage means), 122 ... Reference time generation unit (reference time generation means), 130 ... Control device (control processing device), 140 ... Processing determination device (control processing device) ), 150 ... Local clock unit (local clock means), 160 ... Local storage unit (local storage means).

Claims (6)

A data management system that manages data related to the operation of multiple production-related devices.
A plurality of control processing devices having a local clock means for measuring a time and a local storage means capable of storing the data, and being provided for each of the plurality of production-related devices and performing control processing related to the corresponding production-related devices. When,
A reference time generation means configured to generate a reference time and to transmit reference time information which is information related to the reference time.
It has a main storage means capable of storing the data, and is provided with a data storage server provided separately from the control processing device.
The reference time generation means can transmit the reference time information to the control processing apparatus via a predetermined network at predetermined time intervals or based on a predetermined request.
The control processing device is
The time in the local clock means can be corrected based on the reference time information transmitted from the reference time generation means via the network.
Each time the data is generated, the data generation time information, which is the information related to the time indicated by the local clock means when the data is generated, can be stored in the local storage means.
The data stored in the local storage means and the data generation time information can be transmitted to the data storage server via the network.
It is possible to confirm that the data storage server and the network are functioning.
The corresponding production-related equipment can be started, provided that the data storage server and the network are functioning.
The data storage server is a data management system capable of storing the data and the data generation time information transmitted from the control processing device via the network in the main storage means. The data management system according to claim 1, wherein the data storage server includes the reference time generation means. The control processing device can transmit the transmission time information, which is the information related to the time indicated by the local clock means at the time of transmitting the data and the data generation time information to the data storage server, to the data storage server.
The second aspect of claim 2, wherein the data storage server can compare the reference time indicated by the reference time generation means when the transmission time information is received with the time based on the transmission time information. Data management system. In the control processing device, the data storage server and the network are functioning, and the reference time information is transmitted from the reference time generation means via the network, and the local clock is based on the reference time information. The data management system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the corresponding production-related device can be started on condition that the time in the means has been corrected. The control processing device is characterized in that, when a predetermined time or more has elapsed since the last time adjustment in the local clock means, the corresponding production-related device cannot be started. The data management system according to any one of 4. At least one of the production-related devices is a blister sheet in which a tablet is filled in a pocket formed in a container film and a cover film is attached to the container film so as to close the pocket. Is a blister packaging machine for manufacturing,
The blister packaging machine is
A filling means for filling the pocket portion with tablets,
A storage means for storing tablets supplied to the filling means is provided.
When at least one of the data storage server and the network is not functioning, the control processing device that performs the control processing related to the blister packaging machine operates the blister packaging machine until at least the storage means is empty. The data management system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the data is continued.

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