Automated apparatus and method for filling vials

• US 9,037,285 B2
• Filed: 04/26/2007
• Issued: 05/19/2015
• Est. Priority Date: 08/09/2002
• Status: Active Grant

• Current Assignee: McKesson Automation Incorporated (Omnicell Inc)
• Original Assignee: McKesson Automation Incorporated (Omnicell Inc)
• Inventors: Vollm, Jamie, Wangu, Manoj, Eckert, Robert, Greyshock, Shawn, Self, Anthony
• Primary Examiner(s): Karmis, Stefanos
• Assistant Examiner(s): Butler, Michael E
• Application Number:
  US11/740,573
• Publication Number:
  US 20070186514A1
• Time in Patent Office: 2,945 Days
• Field of Search: 700/214, 700/237, 700/217
• US Class Current: 700/214
• CPC Class Codes: A61J 7/02 Pill counting devices
• CPC Class Codes: B65B 5/103 for packaging pills or tablets
• CPC Class Codes: B65B 57/20 Applications of counting devices for controlling the feed of articles other applications B65B65/08
• CPC Class Codes: G07F 11/44 in which magazines the articles are stored in bulk
• CPC Class Codes: G07F 11/54 about vertical axes
• CPC Class Codes: G07F 11/58 the articles being supported on or by endless belts or like conveyors
• CPC Class Codes: G07F 11/62 in which the articles are stored in compartments in fixed receptacles
• CPC Class Codes: G07F 17/0092 for assembling and dispensing of pharmaceutical articles medical dispensers for private use, A61J7/00

Abstract

An apparatus for filling vials comprises a shelving unit defining an array of storage locations. The shelving unit may be an array in an XY plane or one or more carousels. A plurality of storage containers are provided, each removably carried by one of the storage locations. A counting and dispensing unit, a source of vials, a label printer and application unit or units, and an output device are also provided. The output device may take a variety of forms such as an output chute, which is preferably used when a capping unit is provided, an output conveyor, a plurality of output lanes, and an output carousel, which may be a dedicated carousel or a portion of the carousel providing the plurality of storage locations. A computer controlled engagement device provides motion in a Z direction. The engagement device may be comprised of a first stage for engaging the storage containers and a second stage for engaging the vials. A computer controlled system carries the engagement device and moves the engagement device in XY directions among the plurality of storage locations, counting and dispensing unit, source of vials, label printer and application unit, and output device. Methods of operating and refilling the vial filling apparatus are also disclosed.

Claims

1. An automated apparatus for filling vials, said apparatus comprising:

a housing defining an interior and an exterior and containing a plurality of removable devices configured for storing medication for use in filling vials;

an input/output housing having a first barrier facing the interior of the apparatus and a second barrier facing the exterior;

an input/output area being defined between said second and first barriers; and

an interlock preventing both said first barrier and said second barrier from being unlocked at the same time so that a removable device is removable from the input/output area while the apparatus remains operational for filling vials within the housing.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein said first barrier comprises a rear door and said second barrier comprises a front door.

3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein said second barrier and said first barrier are computer controlled.

4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the input/output housing is provided with indicators to indicate when the second barrier may be opened.

5. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein said indicators comprise light emitting diodes.

6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein said second barrier includes a handle and also includes a window for viewing inside the housing.