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EP1700786B1 - Modular dispensing system for packaging tablets in a pocketed web - Google Patents

Modular dispensing system for packaging tablets in a pocketed web Download PDF

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Publication number
EP1700786B1
EP1700786B1 EP06004930A EP06004930A EP1700786B1 EP 1700786 B1 EP1700786 B1 EP 1700786B1 EP 06004930 A EP06004930 A EP 06004930A EP 06004930 A EP06004930 A EP 06004930A EP 1700786 B1 EP1700786 B1 EP 1700786B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
tablets
distribution
frame
elements
strip
Prior art date
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Active
Application number
EP06004930A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP1700786A1 (en
Inventor
Denis Van Eenoo
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E P M O
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E P M O
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Classifications

    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65BMACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
    • B65B5/00Packaging individual articles in containers or receptacles, e.g. bags, sacks, boxes, cartons, cans, jars
    • B65B5/10Filling containers or receptacles progressively or in stages by introducing successive articles, or layers of articles
    • B65B5/101Filling containers or receptacles progressively or in stages by introducing successive articles, or layers of articles by gravity
    • B65B5/103Filling containers or receptacles progressively or in stages by introducing successive articles, or layers of articles by gravity for packaging pills or tablets
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65BMACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
    • B65B35/00Supplying, feeding, arranging or orientating articles to be packaged
    • B65B35/06Separating single articles from loose masses of articles
    • B65B35/08Separating single articles from loose masses of articles using pocketed conveyors
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65BMACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
    • B65B35/00Supplying, feeding, arranging or orientating articles to be packaged
    • B65B35/10Feeding, e.g. conveying, single articles
    • B65B35/14Feeding, e.g. conveying, single articles by agitators or vibrators
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65BMACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
    • B65B59/00Arrangements to enable machines to handle articles of different sizes, to produce packages of different sizes, to vary the contents of packages, to handle different types of packaging material, or to give access for cleaning or maintenance purposes
    • B65B59/04Machines constructed with readily-detachable units or assemblies, e.g. to facilitate maintenance
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65BMACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
    • B65B9/00Enclosing successive articles, or quantities of material, e.g. liquids or semiliquids, in flat, folded, or tubular webs of flexible sheet material; Subdividing filled flexible tubes to form packages
    • B65B9/02Enclosing successive articles, or quantities of material between opposed webs
    • B65B9/04Enclosing successive articles, or quantities of material between opposed webs one or both webs being formed with pockets for the reception of the articles, or of the quantities of material
    • B65B9/045Enclosing successive articles, or quantities of material between opposed webs one or both webs being formed with pockets for the reception of the articles, or of the quantities of material for single articles, e.g. tablets

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to the materials used in the field of packaging tablets, thereby meaning products of all kinds in discrete units, when these tablets are packaged distributed in the cells of a honeycomb support, generally called "blister" .
  • the known installations are divided into two major families, distinguished by the means of distribution of the tablets between the bulk feed device and the blister strip, according to whether it is carried out by stirring and spreading in rotary brush dispensers or by guiding the tablets along ramps in so-called channelized distribution devices.
  • Distributors of each type are subject, for example, to French patent applications FR 2 759 346 , FR 2 759 668 , FR 2 759 669 , or US patents US 3,724,165 and US 4,733,520 , which describe with all the desirable details their constitution and their functioning for particular concrete forms of realization.
  • a constraint commonly encountered with known installations is the need to be able to process tablets of different sizes.
  • these formats are very varied, with pills, capsules and other tablets, which differ in size, shape, surface structure.
  • Modern blistering shops must then have several machines and adjust them specifically for each change in quality of tablets to be treated.
  • a device depositing the tablets on the band moving in a housing supporting rotating stirring and spreading brushes optimally ensures filling of the cells for tablets of rounded format, such Filling mode becomes inoperative for tablets having a more elongated or rectangular shape, or flatter.
  • the present invention aims essentially to improve the conditions of packaging blister packs, so in particular to reduce construction and operating costs, to facilitate the processing of tablets of various sizes in the same installation, to increase the rate of production. It makes it possible to avoid the drawback of existing installations in which several specific heavy equipment is used, to be assembled and dismounted in the packaging line each time the mode of distribution or distribution of the tablets changes, and in which the assembly operations -Demontage require a lot of time and cause a stop of the conditioning detrimental to the productivity.
  • the invention provides a modular tablet dispensing system for packaging tablets in a blister strip moving beneath a bulk tablet feeder, wherein a control member mounting frame.
  • motorized has an attachment surface provided with at least two sets of fasteners for releasably mounting respectively at least two interchangeable distribution assemblies in functional relationship with each other with at least some of said motorized control elements for driving own means thereof for dispensing tablets between the bulk feeder and the blister strip.
  • Said interchangeable assemblies preferably comprise at least one rotating brush spread distribution unit succeeding one another above the path of the cellular strip and at least one channelized distribution assembly with guide rails depositing the tablets one after the other in the alveoluses in line of the alveolate band.
  • the system of the invention allows interchangeability between different distribution configurations thanks to the removable nature relative to the frame of the distribution elements in contact with the tablets. It is no longer necessary to perform a tedious disassembly of the entire distribution equipment. In addition, the purity requirements required in the pharmaceutical field are facilitated by avoiding contamination between tablets of different chemical compositions treated successively in the same machine.
  • the different components of the various interchangeable assemblies are mounted on the frame so as to operate in dispensing tablets from the bulk feed device to the scroll plane of the blister strip.
  • the mounting surface of the frame therefore advantageously has a vertical component so as to support equipment extending from one to the other. It is configured to alternately receive the different distribution elements, removably, even if they are either in an inclined arrangement between two levels of different heights above the path of the blister strip as in a pipe assembly in ramps guiding the descent of the tablets by gravity, either in a low position longitudinally above of this trajectory as in a dispensing box with rotating stirring brushes and spreading tablets.
  • Such a brush box which preferably is itself with interchangeable brushes as described in the patent text FR 2 759 346 , is advantageously completed by an inlet chute of the tablets joining the bulk feed device, which makes it possible to keep the same mounting support thereof, as well as the same drive means of the blister strip, when you change the distribution mode.
  • the frame with its attachment surface is preferably adapted to alternately receive distribution sets with guide rails of several different types, to choose from among those in which the ramps are inclined almost to the vertical so that the tablets run easily through gravity, or those in which the ramps are less inclined but subjected to vibrations favoring the descent of the tablets, those in which the tablets are introduced into these ramps from the feed device.
  • the modular system according to the invention comprises rotary drive members actuated via motorization elements carried by the frame which are accessible through the attachment surface thereof to connect removably to the different rotating elements of the distribution sets.
  • Such members are advantageously arranged at at least two distinct levels of height to rotate at a first level of height, or high level, the axis of at least one rotary element of the set with gravity distribution ramps, and at a second level of height, or low level because lower than the first level of height, the axis of at least one rotating brush falling from the distribution box by spreading.
  • the frame attachment surface is orthogonal and adjacent to a drive device of the cellular web in horizontal displacement, and a series of fasteners comprises at least two remote attachment points one of the other in the direction of advance of the band, to allow the assembly of what is known as a brush box, namely the main rotating brushes and their support in a distribution set spreading, placing it horizontally in a low position above the moving honeycomb strip, so that the rotating stirring and spreading brushes come into contact with it.
  • the fasteners of the elements on the frame by screwing or otherwise, to be configured to allow adjustment in relative position, between the elements and the blister strip and / or between the elements of one to the other. It is thus possible to take full advantage of the flexibility of a brush box in that it makes it possible to alternately treat tablets which remain rounded, but more or less elongated or flat, and which may especially be of different sizes from one another. one batch from one production to another.
  • a tablet-lying brush in the plane of the receiving honeycomb strip
  • a helical threading brush used to remove the excess tablets by relative to the available cells, which are located downstream of downstream distribution ramps channeled or downstream of a brush box.
  • the fasteners provided on the mounting surface of the frame are arranged in correspondence with the relative provisions of the alternative distribution elements that result.
  • the means for fixing the elements of the distribution assemblies on the frame are chosen to facilitate assembly and disassembly operations which are convenient and fast. It is the same for the connecting means ensuring the connection between, on the same side of a wall having said attachment surface as the moving strip, the axes of the brushes. rotary drives and other elements to be rotated, and the drive shafts of the drive elements which are mounted in the frame on the other side of the attachment surface. From this point of view, it is preferable to use screwdriver type means operating by axial interlocking of a male end member in a member cooperating with a female end through said wall.
  • motorized control members advantageously complement the system according to the invention to ensure, through the mounting surface of the frame, an automatic control of the elements of distribution sets that require it. This is particularly the case for sensitive sensors at the level of the tablets that are part of a circuit for regulating the admission of the tablets to the inlet of a brush distribution box on the surface of the relative displacement strip.
  • the mounting system of the interchangeable distribution sets is designed to facilitate quick adjustment of the elements that constitute them respectively. It is known that in order to adapt the installation to the treatment of each type of compound, it is desirable not only to modify the composition of the distribution assembly, but also to act on the operating parameters of the various elements participating in the process. distribution of the tablets to make them pass the total of the loose provision to disposition each in a cell of the blister strip. And as the same plant is generally required to periodically restart the processing of different series for compounds of a specific type, it is useful to record the parameters adapted to each type of compounds for reuse in each sequence and thus avoid trial and error that their setting requires during the first treatments of a type of compounds hitherto unknown.
  • the invention advantageously provides to equip the frame with presence sensors which detect which model of distribution element has just been mounted in a situation appropriate to its operation on the attachment surface and which transmit the information to a computer controlling the installation that has pre-recorded data according to which it automatically calculates which motorization elements will then have to be started and which orders their operation accordingly.
  • a computer controlling the installation that has pre-recorded data according to which it automatically calculates which motorization elements will then have to be started and which orders their operation accordingly.
  • the computer is then programmed to automatically select the series of recorded parameters to correlate with the distribution elements whose presence has been detected by the sensors and to provide the information to an operator selecting the appropriate series from those proposed to him and giving the order of automatic implementation of the corresponding parameters.
  • the parameters whose settings can thus be memorized preferably comprise at least the rotational speeds of the various rotary elements, including in particular the brushes of a brush box, the rotary drum of a rotary distributor, the blade cylinder of a apparatus for distributing tablets on admission into a downward-sloping element, the auxiliary brushes for laying down the flat tablets and for removing excess tablets or debris, as well as the vibrating powers of the vibrating elements, for example for adjust the speed of the tablets by their speed along a vibrating rail element.
  • the modular system comprises a frame (1) with motor elements (M1, M2) for rotating rotating brushes (B1, B2) above the path of movement of the web (5).
  • the frame may comprise or be associated with a device for horizontal displacement (50) of the blister strip (5).
  • the frame has at least one attachment surface which is embodied by a vertical plate (100) disposed orthogonally here and adjacent to the displacement device.
  • the frame (1) also comprises a support assembly (S) for supporting, in height relative to the strip (5) in displacement, a bulk feed device illustrated by a platform (P) for supplying tablets.
  • the plate (100) is provided with at least two series of fasteners (41, 42) for respectively securing a gravity-fed distribution assembly (3), with downward distribution ramps, and a brushbox ( 2), substantially horizontal, combined with a chute (20).
  • the specific form of the distribution modules can be very variable, provided they have fasteners adapted to the frame (1) for rapid assembly, these modules being attached to the frame by one and / or the other of the two sets of fasteners (41, 42) of the attachment surface (1) illustrated in FIG. figure 1 .
  • the modular system according to the invention as described makes it possible to fix the upper platform (P) by fast fastening means (11) as illustrated in FIG. figure 2 .
  • the support assembly (S) is adjustable in height and / or depth position.
  • This support assembly (S) is for example connected to the attachment surface (100) of the frame (1) by means of adjustable screwing or clamping means on the one hand to move the support assembly (S) ) relative to the attachment surface (100) of the frame and on the other hand to lower more or less this support assembly (S).
  • Adjusting the position of the support assembly (S) is effected for example by respective knobs (15, 16), a wheel for adjusting the height and the other to adjust the depth.
  • a tablet inlet sleeve (10) upstream of the platform (P) may also be attached to the support assembly (S) via means (17) for fixing and height adjustment. of this sleeve (10).
  • the platform can also be adjusted for cross-directional admission ( figure 1 ) or an admission in the longitudinal direction ( figure 2 ).
  • the platform (P) may comprise a rail for feeding the tablets into an introduction chute (20, 30) to the means (2, 3) for distributing these tablets.
  • the platform (P) may comprise, in its downstream part, a suction system to evacuate pieces of broken products or the powder that may result from the friction and shocks of the products between them.
  • the downstream end of the platform disposed above the upstream end of the means (2, 3) for distributing the tablets.
  • the system according to the invention can be configured for particular non-rounded formats by detachably receiving a set (3) with downward distribution ramps, the ramps being vibrating or fixed.
  • This assembly (3) comprises a guide (32) provided with longitudinal grooves (33), forming tablet ramps. The tablets can thus be deposited and oriented as desired in falling into the internal ramps of the guide (32).
  • a hopper (31) is provided in this dispensing assembly (3) for receiving the tablets arriving through the tabletting chute (30) disposed therein. Alternatively, several chutes may be provided.
  • the hopper (31) comprises an inclined piece or incline (36) downwards towards its downstream part and which can form one or more feed channels for the ramps of the vertical guide (32), this guide (32) being located in downstream of the hopper (31).
  • At least one wall of the feed chutes disposed in the hopper (31) is shaped to form a funnel or constriction in the direction of the vertical guide (32).
  • constrictions are provided for several inclined chutes and are designed so that, in the downstream part of each chute, the tablets can be oriented only longitudinally with respect to a longitudinal axis of symmetry of the chutes and arranged one behind the other.
  • the hopper (31) forms a closed interior volume in which is incorporated a blade brush (B1), that is to say a rotating cylinder with flexible radial blades.
  • This blade brush (6) is disposed above the vertical guide (32).
  • the axis of the cylinder of the brush (B1) is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of symmetry of the inclined slope (36).
  • the cylinder which comprises for example four flexible strips, is rotated in a determined direction (clockwise in the case of the figure 5 ) in which it pushes a portion of the tablets in the opposite direction to their progression towards the vertical guide (32).
  • the attachment surface (100) of the frame (1) comprises at least one fixing member (41) at the high level and at least one connecting member of the male or female type.
  • This connecting member comprising, for example, a groove or slot (4) of a female endpiece, is arranged in height relative to the blister strip (5) for receiving and connecting a portion (35) extending the axis of the rotary brush (B1) for forming a cooperating male end, a motor element (M1) or rotation drive located high.
  • the cylinder with radial lamellae can ensure a regulation of the flow of tablets that pass through the inclined chutes, allowing only one tablet at a time to pass in the downstream part of the chutes.
  • the laminated cylinder releases back all the superimposed tablets and allows downstream only the tablet located at the bottom of the hopper (31).
  • the ramps formed with the longitudinal grooves (33) are located in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of symmetry of the strip (5).
  • a dust suction system (34) may be disposed at the inclined slope (36) to aspirate and discharge broken tablet pieces or powder that may result from friction or shocks products between them.
  • the tablets retain their acquired orientation in the vertical ramps.
  • Detection means (16), for example optical, may be provided in the distribution assembly (3) to detect the state of filling of the vertical guide (32).
  • the set (3) of downward ramp distribution is easily fixed on at least one surface (100) for attaching the frame by a rapid connection device, for example of screwdriver type, to connect the brush to blades (B1) to a motor element (M1), fixing and centering elements (43) being provided to facilitate assembly / disassembly operations.
  • the quick links type screwdriver are provided to cooperate each with a rotating slot disposed on said surface (100) for attachment of the frame (1).
  • a knurled screw with quick coupler arranged on the opposite side to the side through which the dispensing assembly (3) is fixed to the frame (1), allows the user to assemble and disassemble this assembly (3) without tools and with a great speed.
  • a brush (B3) lying down the tablets is disposed above the moving honeycomb strip (5) downstream of the distribution manifold assembly (3) down. Placing the tablets in the cells of the strip (5) is thus facilitated.
  • the modular system according to the invention can incorporate another type of interchangeable dispensing equipment, for example in the form of a casing providing a direct and random way of inserting round-shaped tablets into the cells of the strip (5).
  • the system may comprise a removable distribution box (2) covering a portion of the moving strip (5).
  • the distribution box (2) is composed of a housing (21) open in its lower part and a distribution chute (20).
  • the chute (20) conveys the tablets spilled from the platform to the inside of the housing (21).
  • This housing (21) comprises for example between two and five brushes (B2) in a parallelepiped volume.
  • the respective axes of the brushes (B2) are extended by fast links of the screwdriver type, that is to say the male parts (25, figure 4 ) having a substantially rectangular endpiece adapted to engage in a complementary groove (4, figure 1 ).
  • the housing (21) may comprise fixing and centering elements (44), for example arranged at each end of the housing (21) and oriented towards the attachment surface (100).
  • These elements (44) are fast type to handle and may simply consist of male elements, while a series of fasteners (42) comprising female-type attachment points, for example at least two attachment points , are provided in the attachment surface (100) to allow the dispensing box (2) to be fixed horizontally just above the moving web (5).
  • the manipulation of these elements (44) can be achieved by means of knurled screws (46), the user having to manipulate two knobs (46) as illustrated in FIG. figure 1 to secure the distribution box (2) to the frame (1).
  • the quick links between male parts (25) extending the axis of the brushes (B2) then engage automatically in the associated grooves (4) of the frame (1).
  • the housing (21) has lateral projections at both ends (22, 23) so that the housing (21) can be associated with a block (13) advanced relative to the rest of the attachment surfaces (100).
  • This block (13, figure 6 ) receives the end of the axes of the brushes (B2) and allows them to be rotated by independent motors (M2).
  • a dust suction nozzle (12) is provided laterally on the frame (1) and can communicate with a dust discharge channel disposed in the projecting portion of one end (22) of the housing, as shown in FIG. figure 1 .
  • the one or more fastening surfaces (100) for connecting the respective dispensing equipment comprise between four and eight screwdriver type quick links for connecting a respective drive member of the axis of the rotating brushes (B1, B2, B3 ) motor elements (M1, M2), which are for example independent motors.
  • the frame (1) used in the invention as illustrated in FIG. figure 2 , and thus comprises rotary drive members actuated via the motorization elements (M1, M2) which are advantageously arranged at at least two distinct levels of height (h1, h2). It is therefore possible thanks to this frame (1), to rotate at a first level of height, or high level (h1), the axis of at least one rotating brush (B1) of the assembly (3) to downward distribution ramps, and at a low level (h2) the axis of at least one rotating brush (B2) of said horizontal distribution box (2).
  • a drive member disposed at this second height level (h2) can be used to rotate a brush (B3) to bed the tablets fed by the vertical guide (32) of the set (3) with distribution ramps .
  • each of the elements of the interchangeable assemblies which are in contact with the tablets is separated from the frame (1) by a vertical wall. This makes it possible, in particular, to isolate the brushes (B) from the attachment surface (100) and thus avoiding a diffusion of the chemical compounds which would cause risks of contamination from one type of tablet implemented to the other.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Medical Preparation Storing Or Oral Administration Devices (AREA)
  • Basic Packing Technique (AREA)
  • Paper (AREA)
  • Cable Accessories (AREA)

Abstract

The system has a frame (1) equipped with two motorization units for driving in rotation two rotating brushes above the trajectory of displacement of a strip. The frame has a vertical plate (100) provided with two series of fixation units permitting to removably integrate the plate with a dispensing assembly (3) channeled by gravity, with descending manifolds, and a horizontal brush case (2) combined with a chute (20), respectively.

Description

La présente invention concerne les matériels utilisés dans le domaine du conditionnement de comprimés, en entendant par là les produits de toute nature se présentant en unités discrètes, quand ces comprimés sont conditionnés répartis dans les alvéoles d'un support alvéolé, généralement appelé "blister".The present invention relates to the materials used in the field of packaging tablets, thereby meaning products of all kinds in discrete units, when these tablets are packaged distributed in the cells of a honeycomb support, generally called "blister" .

Il est connu dans l'art antérieur, notamment pour l'industrie pharmaceutique, de nombreuses installations de conditionnement permettant de disposer des comprimés ou unités équivalentes dans les alvéoles d'une bande alvéolée en déplacement, entraînée à défiler sur elle-même en dessous d'un dispositif d'alimentation amenant les comprimés en vrac. Les comprimés sont ainsi répartis, par exemple, dans les alvéoles de plaquettes thermoformées dans une nappe en matière synthétique recevant à un autre poste une pellicule de fermeture (par exemple un film protecteur d'aluminium), comme il est décrit par exemple dans le brevet américain 3 464 182. Il est connu d'une part des machines de mise sous blister de ce type dans lesquelles l'avance de la bande est continue (comme il est choisi en exemple dans la suite de la description pour illustrer au mieux l'invention) et, d'autre part, des machines dans lesquelles l'avance de la bande est discontinue au niveau de la dépose des comprimés, qui est effectuée par lots successifs (comme dans le système décrit dans la demande de brevet français 2 759 669 ).It is known in the prior art, in particular for the pharmaceutical industry, many packaging facilities to have tablets or equivalent units in the cells of a moving honeycomb strip, driven to scroll on itself below a feeding device bringing the tablets in bulk. The tablets are thus distributed, for example, in the cells of blister packs in a sheet of synthetic material receiving at another station a closure film (for example an aluminum protective film), as described for example in the patent US Pat. No. 3,464,182. It is known, on the one hand, of blistering machines of this type in which the advance of the strip is continuous (as it is chosen as an example in the remainder of the description to better illustrate the invention) and, on the other hand, machines in which the advance of the strip is discontinuous at the level of the deposit of the tablets, which is carried out in successive batches (as in the system described in the French patent application 2,759,669 ).

Les installations connues se répartissent en deux grandes familles, se distinguant par les moyens de distribution des comprimés entre le dispositif d'alimentation en vrac et la bande alvéolée, suivant que l'on procède par brassage et étalement dans des distributeurs à brosses rotatives ou par guidage des comprimés le long de rampes dans des dispositifs dits de distribution canalisée. Des distributeurs de chaque type font l'objet, par exemple, des demandes de brevet français FR 2 759 346 , FR 2 759 668 , FR 2 759 669 , ou des brevets américains US 3 724 165 et US 4 733 520 , qui décrivent avec tous détails souhaitables leur constitution et leur fonctionnement pour des formes concrètes de réalisation particulières.The known installations are divided into two major families, distinguished by the means of distribution of the tablets between the bulk feed device and the blister strip, according to whether it is carried out by stirring and spreading in rotary brush dispensers or by guiding the tablets along ramps in so-called channelized distribution devices. Distributors of each type are subject, for example, to French patent applications FR 2 759 346 , FR 2 759 668 , FR 2 759 669 , or US patents US 3,724,165 and US 4,733,520 , which describe with all the desirable details their constitution and their functioning for particular concrete forms of realization.

Une contrainte rencontrée couramment avec les installations connues est la nécessité de pourvoir traiter des comprimés de formats différents. Dans l'industrie pharmaceutique notamment, ces formats sont très variés, avec des pilules, gélules et autres comprimés, qui diffèrent par la taille, la forme, la structure superficielle. Les ateliers de mise sous blister modernes doivent alors disposer de plusieurs machines et les régler spécifiquement à chaque changement de qualité de comprimés à traiter. En particulier, tandis qu'un équipement déposant les comprimés sur la bande en déplacement au niveau d'un boîtier supportant des brosses rotatives de brassage et étalement permet d'assurer de façon optimale un remplissage des alvéoles pour des comprimés de format arrondi, un tel mode de remplissage devient inopérant pour des comprimés ayant une forme plus allongée ou rectangulaire, ou plus plate. Pour ces derniers formats, il faut en général utiliser l'un ou l'autre des modes de distribution à rampes, qui permettent de pré-positionner les comprimés.A constraint commonly encountered with known installations is the need to be able to process tablets of different sizes. In the pharmaceutical industry in particular, these formats are very varied, with pills, capsules and other tablets, which differ in size, shape, surface structure. Modern blistering shops must then have several machines and adjust them specifically for each change in quality of tablets to be treated. In particular, while a device depositing the tablets on the band moving in a housing supporting rotating stirring and spreading brushes optimally ensures filling of the cells for tablets of rounded format, such Filling mode becomes inoperative for tablets having a more elongated or rectangular shape, or flatter. For these latter formats, it is generally necessary to use one or the other of the ramp distribution modes, which make it possible to pre-position the tablets.

La présente invention vise essentiellement à améliorer les conditions du conditionnement de comprimés sous blister, donc en particulier à diminuer les coûts de construction et de fonctionnement, à faciliter le traitement de comprimés de formats variés dans une même installation, à augmenter la cadence de production. Elle permet d'éviter l'inconvénient des installations existantes dans lesquelles on utlise plusieurs équipements lourds spécifiques, à monter et démonter dans la chaîne de conditionnement à chaque fois que le mode de distribution ou répartition des comprimés change, et dans lesquelles les opérations de montage-démontage exigent beaucoup de temps et provoquent un arrêt du conditionnement préjudiciable pour la productivité.The present invention aims essentially to improve the conditions of packaging blister packs, so in particular to reduce construction and operating costs, to facilitate the processing of tablets of various sizes in the same installation, to increase the rate of production. It makes it possible to avoid the drawback of existing installations in which several specific heavy equipment is used, to be assembled and dismounted in the packaging line each time the mode of distribution or distribution of the tablets changes, and in which the assembly operations -Demontage require a lot of time and cause a stop of the conditioning detrimental to the productivity.

Dans ce but l'invention propose un système modulable de distribution de comprimés pour le conditionnement de comprimés dans une bande alvéolée en déplacement en dessous d'un dispositif d'alimentation en vrac des comprimés, dans lequel un bâti de montage d'éléments de commande motorisée présente une surface d'attache pourvue d'au moins deux séries d'organes de fixation pour le montage amovible respectivement d'au moins deux ensembles de distribution interchangeables en situation de relation fonctionnelle chacun avec au moins certains desdits éléments de commande motorisée pour entraîner des moyens propres qu'il comporte pour assurer la distribution des comprimés entre le dispositif d'alimentation en vrac et la bande alvéolée.For this purpose the invention provides a modular tablet dispensing system for packaging tablets in a blister strip moving beneath a bulk tablet feeder, wherein a control member mounting frame. motorized has an attachment surface provided with at least two sets of fasteners for releasably mounting respectively at least two interchangeable distribution assemblies in functional relationship with each other with at least some of said motorized control elements for driving own means thereof for dispensing tablets between the bulk feeder and the blister strip.

Lesdits ensembles interchangeables comprennent de préférence au moins un ensemble de distribution par étalement à brosses rotatives se succédant au-dessus de la trajectoire de la bande alvéolée et au moins un ensemble de distribution canalisée à rampes de guidage déposant les comprimés l'un après l'autre dans les alvéoles en ligne de la bande alvéolée.Said interchangeable assemblies preferably comprise at least one rotating brush spread distribution unit succeeding one another above the path of the cellular strip and at least one channelized distribution assembly with guide rails depositing the tablets one after the other in the alveoluses in line of the alveolate band.

Le système de l'invention permet une interchangeabilité entre différentes configurations de distribution grâce au caractère amovible par rapport au bâti des éléments de distribution en contact avec les comprimés. Il n'est donc plus nécessaire d'opérer un démontage fastidieux de l'intégralité de l'équipement de distribution. De plus, on facilite le respect des conditions de pureté requises dans le domaine pharmaceutique en évitant la contamination entre des comprimés de compositions chimiques différentes traités successivement dans une même machine.The system of the invention allows interchangeability between different distribution configurations thanks to the removable nature relative to the frame of the distribution elements in contact with the tablets. It is no longer necessary to perform a tedious disassembly of the entire distribution equipment. In addition, the purity requirements required in the pharmaceutical field are facilitated by avoiding contamination between tablets of different chemical compositions treated successively in the same machine.

Les différents éléments composant les différents ensembles interchangeables se montent sur le bâti de manière à pouvoir fonctionner en distribution des comprimés depuis le dispositif d'alimentation en vrac jusqu'au plan de défilement de la bande alvéolée. La surface d'attache du bâti présente donc avantageusement une composante verticale de manière à pouvoir supporter des équipements s'étendant de l'un à l'autre. Elle est configurée pour recevoir alternativement les différents éléments de distribution, de manière amovible, alors même qu'ils sont soit dans une disposition inclinée entre deux niveaux de hauteurs différentes au-dessus de la trajectoire de la bande alvéolée comme dans un ensemble à canalisation dans des rampes guidant la descente des comprimés par gravité, soit dans une disposition basse longitudinalement au-dessus de cette trajectoire comme dans une boîte de distribution à brosses rotatives de brassage et étalement des comprimés. Une telle boîte à brosses, qui de préférence est elle-même à brosses interchangeables comme il est décrit dans le texte de brevet FR 2 759 346 , est avantageusement complétée par une goulotte d'admission des comprimés rejoignant le dispositif d'alimentation en vrac, ce qui permet de conserver le même support de montage de celui-ci, de même que les mêmes moyens d'entraînement de la bande alvéolée, quand on change de mode de distribution.The different components of the various interchangeable assemblies are mounted on the frame so as to operate in dispensing tablets from the bulk feed device to the scroll plane of the blister strip. The mounting surface of the frame therefore advantageously has a vertical component so as to support equipment extending from one to the other. It is configured to alternately receive the different distribution elements, removably, even if they are either in an inclined arrangement between two levels of different heights above the path of the blister strip as in a pipe assembly in ramps guiding the descent of the tablets by gravity, either in a low position longitudinally above of this trajectory as in a dispensing box with rotating stirring brushes and spreading tablets. Such a brush box, which preferably is itself with interchangeable brushes as described in the patent text FR 2 759 346 , is advantageously completed by an inlet chute of the tablets joining the bulk feed device, which makes it possible to keep the same mounting support thereof, as well as the same drive means of the blister strip, when you change the distribution mode.

Pour convenir à un maximum de modes de distribution, le bâti avec sa surface d'attache est préférentiellement adapté pour recevoir alternativement des ensembles de distribution à rampes de guidage de plusieurs types différents, à choisir parmi notamment ceux dans lesquels les rampes sont inclinées quasiment à la verticale pour que les comprimés les parcourent aisément par gravité, ou ceux dans lesquels les rampes sont moins inclinées mais soumises à des vibrations favorisant la descente des comprimés, ceux dans lesquels les comprimés sont introduits dans ces rampes à partir du dispositif d'alimentation en vrac par des systèmes rotatifs à pales ou par des répartiteurs vibrants à lyre comme il est décrit dans les textes de brevets déjà cités, ou encore ceux dans lesquels les rampes sont ménagées autour d'un cylindre qui est entraîné en rotation pour faire descendre les comprimés.To suit a maximum of distribution modes, the frame with its attachment surface is preferably adapted to alternately receive distribution sets with guide rails of several different types, to choose from among those in which the ramps are inclined almost to the vertical so that the tablets run easily through gravity, or those in which the ramps are less inclined but subjected to vibrations favoring the descent of the tablets, those in which the tablets are introduced into these ramps from the feed device. Bulk by rotating systems with blades or by vibrating spreaders with lyre as described in the patent texts already mentioned, or those in which the ramps are formed around a cylinder which is rotated to lower the tablets .

Selon une autre de ses particularités avantageuses, le système modulable suivant l'invention comporte des organes d'entraînement en rotation actionnés via des éléments de motorisation portés par le bâti qui sont accessibles à travers la surface d'attache de celui-ci pour se raccorder de manière amovible aux différents éléments rotatifs des ensembles de distribution. De tels organes sont avantageusement disposés à au moins deux niveaux distincts de hauteur pour faire tourner à un premier niveau de hauteur, ou niveau haut, l'axe d'au moins un élément rotatif de l'ensemble à rampes de distribution par gravité, et à un second niveau de hauteur, ou niveau bas car inférieur au premier niveau de hauteur, l'axe d'au moins une brosse rotative relevant de la boîte de distribution par étalement.According to another of its advantageous features, the modular system according to the invention comprises rotary drive members actuated via motorization elements carried by the frame which are accessible through the attachment surface thereof to connect removably to the different rotating elements of the distribution sets. Such members are advantageously arranged at at least two distinct levels of height to rotate at a first level of height, or high level, the axis of at least one rotary element of the set with gravity distribution ramps, and at a second level of height, or low level because lower than the first level of height, the axis of at least one rotating brush falling from the distribution box by spreading.

Selon une autre particularité, la surface d'attache du bâti est orthogonale et adjacente à un dispositif d'entraînement de la bande alvéolée en déplacement horizontal, et une série d'organes de fixation comprend aux moins deux points de fixation à distance l'un de l'autre dans le sens d'avance de la bande, pour permettre le montage de ce qu'il est convenu d'appeler une boîte à brosses, à savoir les principales brosses rotatives et leur support dans un ensemble de distribution par étalement, en la disposant de façon horizontale en position basse au-dessus de la bande alvéolée en déplacement, de manière que les brosses rotatives de brassage et étalement viennent à son contact. Surtout pour les éléments utiles dans ce mode de distribution, mais le cas échéant aussi pour ceux des ensembles de distribution canalisée, il est avantageux que les organes de fixation des éléments sur le bâti, par vissage ou autre, soient configurés pour permettre un réglage en position relative, entre les éléments et la bande alvéolée et/ou entre les éléments de l'un à l'autre. On peut ainsi tirer plein profit de la souplesse d'une boîte à brosses en ce qu'elle permet de traiter alternativement des comprimés qui restent de forme arrondie, mais plus ou moins allongée ou plate, et qui surtout peuvent être de taille différente d'un lot pde roduction à l'autre.According to another feature, the frame attachment surface is orthogonal and adjacent to a drive device of the cellular web in horizontal displacement, and a series of fasteners comprises at least two remote attachment points one of the other in the direction of advance of the band, to allow the assembly of what is known as a brush box, namely the main rotating brushes and their support in a distribution set spreading, placing it horizontally in a low position above the moving honeycomb strip, so that the rotating stirring and spreading brushes come into contact with it. Especially for the elements that are useful in this mode of distribution, but where appropriate also for those of the channelized distribution assemblies, it is advantageous for the fasteners of the elements on the frame, by screwing or otherwise, to be configured to allow adjustment in relative position, between the elements and the blister strip and / or between the elements of one to the other. It is thus possible to take full advantage of the flexibility of a brush box in that it makes it possible to alternately treat tablets which remain rounded, but more or less elongated or flat, and which may especially be of different sizes from one another. one batch from one production to another.

Selon une autre particularité, il est avantageusement prévu des organes de fixation indépendants pour le montage d'une brosse à coucher les comprimés (dans le plan de la bande alvéolée réceptrice) ou d'une brosse à filet hélicoïdal servant à écarter les comprimés excédentaires par rapport aux alvéoles disponibles, qui se disposent en aval des rampes descendantes de distribution canalisée ou en aval d'une boîte à brosses. Les organes de fixation prévus sur la surface d'attache du bâti sont disposés en correspondance avec les dispositions relatives des éléments de distribution alternatifs qui en résultent.According to another particular feature, it is advantageously provided with independent fixing members for mounting a tablet-lying brush (in the plane of the receiving honeycomb strip) or with a helical threading brush used to remove the excess tablets by relative to the available cells, which are located downstream of downstream distribution ramps channeled or downstream of a brush box. The fasteners provided on the mounting surface of the frame are arranged in correspondence with the relative provisions of the alternative distribution elements that result.

En conformité avec l'invention, les moyens de fixation des éléments des ensembles de distribution sur le bâti sont choisis pour favoriser des opérations de montage et démontage qui soient commodes et rapides. Il en est de même pour les moyens de connexion assurant la liaison entre, du même côté d'une paroi présentant ladite surface d'attache que la bande en défilement, les axes des brosses rotatives et autres éléments à entraîner en rotation, et les arbres d'entraînement des éléments de motorisation qui sont montés dans le bâti de l'autre côté de la surface d'attache. De ce point de vue, on a de préférence recours à des moyens de type tournevis fonctionnant par emboîtement axial d'un organe à embout mâle dans un organe coopérant à embout femelle à travers ladite paroi.In accordance with the invention, the means for fixing the elements of the distribution assemblies on the frame are chosen to facilitate assembly and disassembly operations which are convenient and fast. It is the same for the connecting means ensuring the connection between, on the same side of a wall having said attachment surface as the moving strip, the axes of the brushes. rotary drives and other elements to be rotated, and the drive shafts of the drive elements which are mounted in the frame on the other side of the attachment surface. From this point of view, it is preferable to use screwdriver type means operating by axial interlocking of a male end member in a member cooperating with a female end through said wall.

D'autres organes de commande motorisée viennent avantageusement compléter le système suivant l'invention pour assurer, à travers la surface d'attache du bâti, une commande automatique des éléments des ensembles de distribution qui le demandent. Il en est ainsi notamment pour des capteurs sensibles au niveau des comprimés qui font partie d'un circuit de régulation de l'admission des comprimés à l'entrée d'une boîte de distribution à brosses sur la surface de la bande à déplacement relatif.Other motorized control members advantageously complement the system according to the invention to ensure, through the mounting surface of the frame, an automatic control of the elements of distribution sets that require it. This is particularly the case for sensitive sensors at the level of the tablets that are part of a circuit for regulating the admission of the tablets to the inlet of a brush distribution box on the surface of the relative displacement strip.

Suivant d'autres caractéristiques de l'invention, le système de montage des ensembles de distribution interchangeables est conçu pour faciliter un réglage rapide des éléments qui les constituent respectivement. On sait en effet que pour adapapter l'installation au traitement de chaque type de composés il est souhaitable, non seulement de modifier la composition de l'ensemble de distribution, mais aussi d'agir sur les paramètres de fonctionnement des différents éléments participant à la distribution des comprimés pour les faire passer au total de la disposition en vrac à la disposition chacun dans une alvéole de la bande de blister. Et comme une même installation est en général amenée à reprendre périodiquement le traitement de séries différentes pour des composés d'un type déterminé, il est utile d'enregistrer les paramètres adaptés à chaque type de composés pour les réutiliser à chaque séquence et éviter ainsi les tâtonnements que demandent leur réglage lors des premiers traitements d'un type de composés jusqu'alors inconnu.According to other features of the invention, the mounting system of the interchangeable distribution sets is designed to facilitate quick adjustment of the elements that constitute them respectively. It is known that in order to adapt the installation to the treatment of each type of compound, it is desirable not only to modify the composition of the distribution assembly, but also to act on the operating parameters of the various elements participating in the process. distribution of the tablets to make them pass the total of the loose provision to disposition each in a cell of the blister strip. And as the same plant is generally required to periodically restart the processing of different series for compounds of a specific type, it is useful to record the parameters adapted to each type of compounds for reuse in each sequence and thus avoid trial and error that their setting requires during the first treatments of a type of compounds hitherto unknown.

En ce sens, l'invention prévoit avantageusement d'équiper le bâti de capteurs de présence qui détectent quel modèle d'élément de distribution vient d'être monté en situation appropriée à son fonctionnement sur la surface d'attache et qui transmettent l'information à un ordinateur de pilotage de l'installation qui dispose de données préalablement enregistrées en fonction desquelles il calcule automatiquement quels éléments de motorisation vont alors devoir être mis en route et qui commande leur mise en fonctionnement en conséquence. De plus, il est avantageux que pour chaque mode de distribution, on dispose en mémoire des moyens de pilotage, de plusieurs séries de paramètres de fonctionnement préalablement définis en correspondance avec les possibilités de réglage convenant à chaque type particulier des composés à traiter. L'ordinateur est alors programmé pour sélectionner automatiquement les séries de paramètres enregistrées à corréler aux éléments de distribution dont la présence a été détectée par les capteurs et pour en fournir l'information à un opérateur sélectionnant la série appropriée parmi celles qui lui sont proposés et donnant l'ordre de mis en oeuvre automatique des paramètres correspondants. Les paramètres dont on peut ainsi mémoriser les réglages comprennent de préférence au moins les vitesses de rotation des différents éléments rotatifs, dont notamment les brosses d'une boîte à brosse, le tambour tournant d'un distributeur rotatif, le cylindre à pales d'un appareillage de répartition des comprimés à l'admission dans un élément à rampes descendantes, les brosses annexes servant à coucher les comprimés plats et à écarter les comprimés excédentaires ou les débris, ainsi que les puissances de mise en vibration des éléments vibrants, par exemple pour régler le débit des comprimés par leur vitesse le long d'un élément à rampe vibrante.In this sense, the invention advantageously provides to equip the frame with presence sensors which detect which model of distribution element has just been mounted in a situation appropriate to its operation on the attachment surface and which transmit the information to a computer controlling the installation that has pre-recorded data according to which it automatically calculates which motorization elements will then have to be started and which orders their operation accordingly. In addition, it is advantageous that for each distribution mode, there are stored in the memory of the control means, several series of operating parameters previously defined in correspondence with the adjustment possibilities suitable for each particular type of compounds to be treated. The computer is then programmed to automatically select the series of recorded parameters to correlate with the distribution elements whose presence has been detected by the sensors and to provide the information to an operator selecting the appropriate series from those proposed to him and giving the order of automatic implementation of the corresponding parameters. The parameters whose settings can thus be memorized preferably comprise at least the rotational speeds of the various rotary elements, including in particular the brushes of a brush box, the rotary drum of a rotary distributor, the blade cylinder of a apparatus for distributing tablets on admission into a downward-sloping element, the auxiliary brushes for laying down the flat tablets and for removing excess tablets or debris, as well as the vibrating powers of the vibrating elements, for example for adjust the speed of the tablets by their speed along a vibrating rail element.

L'invention, avec ses caractéristiques et avantages, ressortira plus clairement à la lecture de la description qui sera faite maintenant en référence aux dessins ci-après, dans lesquels :

  • la figure 1 représente, en perspective, un mode de réalisation du système modulable de distribution selon l'invention ;
  • la figure 2 représente, en perspective, un mode de réalisation d'un bâti apte à être configuré selon différents modes de distribution ;
  • les figures 3A et 3B représentent respectivement, en perspective, un ensemble à rampes de distribution pouvant être associé au bâti de la figure 2 ;
  • la figure 4 représente une vue en perspective d'une boîte de distribution pouvant être associé au bâti de la figure 2 ;
  • la figure 5 montre un exemple de système selon l'invention ayant une configuration avec boîte de distribution ;
  • la figure 6 montre un exemple de système selon l'invention ayant une configuration avec rampe de distribution.
The invention, with its features and advantages, will emerge more clearly from a reading of the description which will be made now with reference to the drawings below, in which:
  • the figure 1 represents, in perspective, an embodiment of the modular distribution system according to the invention;
  • the figure 2 represents, in perspective, an embodiment of a frame capable of being configured according to different modes of distribution;
  • the Figures 3A and 3B represent respectively, in perspective, a set of distribution ramps that can be associated with the frame of the figure 2 ;
  • the figure 4 represents a perspective view of a distribution box that can be associated with the frame of the figure 2 ;
  • the figure 5 shows an example of a system according to the invention having a configuration with a distribution box;
  • the figure 6 shows an example of a system according to the invention having a configuration with a distribution ramp.

Dans l'exemple choisi pour illustrer l'invention, celle-ci est appliquée à la distribution des comprimés dans une installation de conditionnement sous blister de comprimés pharmaceutiques. Ceux--ci sont reçus individuellement dans les alvéoles d'une bande alvéolée (5) entraînée en translation sur ell-même. Le système modulable comporte un bâti (1) doté d'éléments de motorisation (M1, M2) pour entraîner en rotation des brosses rotatives (B1, B2) au-dessus de la trajectoire de déplacement de la bande (5). Comme illustré à la figure 2, le bâti peut comporter ou être associé à un dispositif de déplacement horizontal (50) de la bande alvéolée (5).In the example chosen to illustrate the invention, it is applied to the distribution of tablets in a blister pack of pharmaceutical tablets. These are received individually in the cells of a cellular strip (5) driven in translation on itself. The modular system comprises a frame (1) with motor elements (M1, M2) for rotating rotating brushes (B1, B2) above the path of movement of the web (5). As illustrated in figure 2 , the frame may comprise or be associated with a device for horizontal displacement (50) of the blister strip (5).

Le bâti comporte au moins une surface d'attache qui est matérialisée par une plaque verticale (100), disposée ici orthogonale et adjacente à ce dispositif de déplacement. Le bâti (1) comporte également un ensemble support (S) pour supporter, en hauteur par rapport à la bande (5) en déplacement, un dispositif d'alimentation en vrac illustré par une plate-forme (P) d'amenée de comprimés. La plaque (100) est dotée d'au moins deux séries d'organes de fixation (41, 42) permettant de solidariser respectivement un ensemble de distribution canalisée par gravité (3), à rampes de distribution descendantes, et une boîte à brosses (2), sensiblement horizontale, combinée à une goulotte (20). Ces moyens de répartition et distribution sont avantageusement rendus solidaire de la surface (100) d'attache du bâti de façon amovible, de telle sorte qu'il soit possible de réaliser aisément, voire sans outillage, un montage et un démontage rapide des moyens de répartition et distribution spécifiques à un format de comprimés. La forme spécifique des modules de distribution peut être très variable, pour autant qu'ils disposent d'éléments de fixation adaptés au bâti (1) permettant un montage rapide, ces modules étant accrochés au bâti par l'une et/ou l'autre des deux séries d'organes de fixation (41, 42) de la surface d'attache (1) illustrée à la figure 1.The frame has at least one attachment surface which is embodied by a vertical plate (100) disposed orthogonally here and adjacent to the displacement device. The frame (1) also comprises a support assembly (S) for supporting, in height relative to the strip (5) in displacement, a bulk feed device illustrated by a platform (P) for supplying tablets. . The plate (100) is provided with at least two series of fasteners (41, 42) for respectively securing a gravity-fed distribution assembly (3), with downward distribution ramps, and a brushbox ( 2), substantially horizontal, combined with a chute (20). These means of distribution and distribution are advantageously secured to the surface (100) of attachment of the frame removably, so that it is possible to easily achieve, or without tools, a rapid assembly and disassembly of the means of distribution and distribution specific to a tablet format. The specific form of the distribution modules can be very variable, provided they have fasteners adapted to the frame (1) for rapid assembly, these modules being attached to the frame by one and / or the other of the two sets of fasteners (41, 42) of the attachment surface (1) illustrated in FIG. figure 1 .

Le système modulable selon l'invention tel que décrit permet de fixer la plate-forme (P) supérieure par des moyens de fixation rapide (11) comme illustré à la figure 2. L'ensemble support (S) est à position réglable en hauteur et/ou en profondeur. Cet ensemble support (S) est par exemple relié à la surface d'attache (100) du bâti (1) par des moyens de vissage ou serrage réglables permettant d'une part de rapprocher ou d'éloigner latéralement l'ensemble support (S) par rapport à la surface d'attache (100) du bâti et d'autre part d'abaisser plus ou moins cet ensemble support (S). Le réglage de la position de l'ensemble support (S) s'effectue par exemple par des molettes respectives (15, 16), une molette servant à ajuster la hauteur et l'autre à ajuster la profondeur. Un manchon (10) d'arrivée de comprimés en amont de la plate-forme (P) peut en outre être rattaché à l'ensemble support (S) par l'intermédiaire de moyens (17) assurant la fixation et le réglage en hauteur de ce manchon (10). La plateforme peut aussi être réglée pour une admission en direction transversale (figure 1) ou une admission en direction longitudinale (figure 2).The modular system according to the invention as described makes it possible to fix the upper platform (P) by fast fastening means (11) as illustrated in FIG. figure 2 . The support assembly (S) is adjustable in height and / or depth position. This support assembly (S) is for example connected to the attachment surface (100) of the frame (1) by means of adjustable screwing or clamping means on the one hand to move the support assembly (S) ) relative to the attachment surface (100) of the frame and on the other hand to lower more or less this support assembly (S). Adjusting the position of the support assembly (S) is effected for example by respective knobs (15, 16), a wheel for adjusting the height and the other to adjust the depth. A tablet inlet sleeve (10) upstream of the platform (P) may also be attached to the support assembly (S) via means (17) for fixing and height adjustment. of this sleeve (10). The platform can also be adjusted for cross-directional admission ( figure 1 ) or an admission in the longitudinal direction ( figure 2 ).

La plate-forme (P) peut comporter un rail d'amenée des comprimés dans une goulotte d'introduction (20, 30) vers les moyens (2, 3) de répartition de ces comprimés. La plate-forme (P) peut comporter, dans sa partie aval, un système d'aspiration pour évacuer des morceaux des produits cassés ou la poudre qui peut résulter du frottement et des chocs des produits entre eux. L'extrémité aval de la plate-forme disposée au-dessus de l'extrémité amont des moyens (2, 3) de répartition des comprimés. Ces moyens de répartition sont décrits ci-après.The platform (P) may comprise a rail for feeding the tablets into an introduction chute (20, 30) to the means (2, 3) for distributing these tablets. The platform (P) may comprise, in its downstream part, a suction system to evacuate pieces of broken products or the powder that may result from the friction and shocks of the products between them. The downstream end of the platform disposed above the upstream end of the means (2, 3) for distributing the tablets. These distribution means are described below.

En référence aux figures 3A et 3B, le système selon l'invention peut être configuré pour des formats particuliers non arrondis en recevant de façon amovible un ensemble (3) à rampes de distribution descendantes, les rampes étant vibrantes ou fixes. Cet ensemble (3) comprend un guide (32) dotée de rainures (33) longitudinales, formant des rampes à comprimés. Les comprimés peuvent ainsi être déposés et orientés de la façon souhaitée en tombant dans les rampes internes du guide (32). Une trémie (31) est prévue dans cet ensemble de distribution (3) pour réceptionner les comprimés arrivant par la goulotte (30) d'admission des comprimés disposée. En variante, plusieurs goulottes peuvent être prévues. La trémie (31) comprend une pièce ou pente inclinée (36) vers le bas en direction de sa partie aval et pouvant former une ou plusieurs goulottes d'alimentation des rampes du guide (32) vertical, ce guide (32) étant situé en aval de la trémie (31).With reference to Figures 3A and 3B , the system according to the invention can be configured for particular non-rounded formats by detachably receiving a set (3) with downward distribution ramps, the ramps being vibrating or fixed. This assembly (3) comprises a guide (32) provided with longitudinal grooves (33), forming tablet ramps. The tablets can thus be deposited and oriented as desired in falling into the internal ramps of the guide (32). A hopper (31) is provided in this dispensing assembly (3) for receiving the tablets arriving through the tabletting chute (30) disposed therein. Alternatively, several chutes may be provided. The hopper (31) comprises an inclined piece or incline (36) downwards towards its downstream part and which can form one or more feed channels for the ramps of the vertical guide (32), this guide (32) being located in downstream of the hopper (31).

Dans un mode de réalisation de l'invention, au moins une paroi des goulottes d'alimentation disposées dans la trémie (31) est conformée de façon à former un entonnoir ou étranglement en direction du guide vertical (32). Des étranglements sont par exemple prévus pour plusieurs goulottes inclinées et sont conformés pour que, dans la partie aval de chaque goulotte, les comprimés ne puissent être orientés que longitudinalement par rapport à un axe de symétrie longitudinal des goulottes et disposés l'un derrière l'autre.In one embodiment of the invention, at least one wall of the feed chutes disposed in the hopper (31) is shaped to form a funnel or constriction in the direction of the vertical guide (32). For example, constrictions are provided for several inclined chutes and are designed so that, in the downstream part of each chute, the tablets can be oriented only longitudinally with respect to a longitudinal axis of symmetry of the chutes and arranged one behind the other.

Comme illustré à la figure 5, la trémie (31) forme un volume intérieur fermé dans lequel est incorporée une brosse à pales (B1), c'est-à-dire un cylindre tournant à lamelles radiales souples. Cette brosse à pales (6) est disposée au-dessus du guide vertical (32). L'axe du cylindre de la brosse (B1) est perpendiculaire à l'axe de symétrie longitudinal de la pente inclinée (36). Le cylindre, qui comporte par exemple quatre lamelles flexibles, est entraîné en rotation dans un sens déterminé (sens horaire dans le cas de la figure 5) dans lequel il repousse une partie des comprimés dans le sens contraire à leur progression vers le guide vertical (32).As illustrated in figure 5 , the hopper (31) forms a closed interior volume in which is incorporated a blade brush (B1), that is to say a rotating cylinder with flexible radial blades. This blade brush (6) is disposed above the vertical guide (32). The axis of the cylinder of the brush (B1) is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of symmetry of the inclined slope (36). The cylinder, which comprises for example four flexible strips, is rotated in a determined direction (clockwise in the case of the figure 5 ) in which it pushes a portion of the tablets in the opposite direction to their progression towards the vertical guide (32).

Comme représenté à la figure 1, la surface (100) d'attache du bâti (1) comporte au moins un organe de fixation (41) au niveau haut et au moins un organe de liaison de type mâle ou femelle. Cet organe de liaison, comprenant par exemple une rainure ou fente (4) d'embout femelle, est disposé en hauteur par rapport à la bande alvéolée (5) pour recevoir et relier une partie (35) prolongeant l'axe de la brosse rotative (B1) pour former un embout mâle coopérant, à un élément de motorisation (M1) ou d'entraînement en rotation situé au niveau haut.As represented in figure 1 , the attachment surface (100) of the frame (1) comprises at least one fixing member (41) at the high level and at least one connecting member of the male or female type. This connecting member, comprising, for example, a groove or slot (4) of a female endpiece, is arranged in height relative to the blister strip (5) for receiving and connecting a portion (35) extending the axis of the rotary brush (B1) for forming a cooperating male end, a motor element (M1) or rotation drive located high.

Le cylindre à lamelles radiales peut assurer une régulation du flux de comprimés qui transitent dans les goulottes inclinées, en ne laissant passer dans la partie aval des goulottes qu'un comprimé à la fois. Le cylindre à lamelles rejette en arrière tous les comprimés superposés et ne laisse passer vers l'aval que le comprimé situé au fond de la trémie (31). Il peut naturellement être prévu autant de goulottes inclinées que de rampes verticales dans le guide (32) en sortie de trémie. Les rampes formées à l'aide des rainures longitudinales (33) sont situées dans un plan perpendiculaire à l'axe de symétrie longitudinal de la bande (5).The cylinder with radial lamellae can ensure a regulation of the flow of tablets that pass through the inclined chutes, allowing only one tablet at a time to pass in the downstream part of the chutes. The laminated cylinder releases back all the superimposed tablets and allows downstream only the tablet located at the bottom of the hopper (31). Naturally, it is possible to provide as many inclined chutes as vertical ramps in the guide (32) at the outlet of the hopper. The ramps formed with the longitudinal grooves (33) are located in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of symmetry of the strip (5).

Dans un mode de réalisation de l'invention, un système d'aspiration des poussières (34) peut être disposé au niveau de la pente inclinée (36) pour aspirer et évacuer les morceaux des comprimés cassés ou la poudre qui peut résulter du frottement ou des chocs des produits entre eux. Les comprimés conservent dans les rampes verticales leur orientation acquise. Des moyens (16) de détection, par exemple optiques, peuvent être prévus dans l'ensemble (3) de distribution pour détecter l'état de remplissage du guide vertical (32).In one embodiment of the invention, a dust suction system (34) may be disposed at the inclined slope (36) to aspirate and discharge broken tablet pieces or powder that may result from friction or shocks products between them. The tablets retain their acquired orientation in the vertical ramps. Detection means (16), for example optical, may be provided in the distribution assembly (3) to detect the state of filling of the vertical guide (32).

Selon la présente invention, l'ensemble (3) de distribution à rampes descendantes se fixe aisément sur au moins une surface (100) d'attache du bâti par un dispositif de liaison rapide, par exemple de type tournevis, pour connecter la brosse à pâles (B1) à un élément de motorisation (M1), des éléments de fixation et de centrage (43) étant prévus pour faciliter les opérations de montage/démontage. Les liaisons rapide de type tournevis sont prévues pour coopérer chacune avec une fente tournante disposée sur ladite surface (100) d'attache du bâti (1). Une vis moletée avec attache rapide, disposée du côté opposé au côté par lequel l'ensemble de distribution (3) est fixé au bâti (1), permet à l'utilisateur de monter et démonter cet ensemble (3) sans outillage et avec une grande rapidité.According to the present invention, the set (3) of downward ramp distribution is easily fixed on at least one surface (100) for attaching the frame by a rapid connection device, for example of screwdriver type, to connect the brush to blades (B1) to a motor element (M1), fixing and centering elements (43) being provided to facilitate assembly / disassembly operations. The quick links type screwdriver are provided to cooperate each with a rotating slot disposed on said surface (100) for attachment of the frame (1). A knurled screw with quick coupler, arranged on the opposite side to the side through which the dispensing assembly (3) is fixed to the frame (1), allows the user to assemble and disassemble this assembly (3) without tools and with a great speed.

Comme illustré à la figure 5, une brosse (B3) à coucher les comprimés est disposée au-dessus de la bande (5) alvéolée en déplacement, en aval de l'ensemble (3) à rampes de distribution descendantes. La mise en place des comprimés dans les alvéoles de la bande (5) est ainsi facilitée.As illustrated in figure 5 , a brush (B3) lying down the tablets is disposed above the moving honeycomb strip (5) downstream of the distribution manifold assembly (3) down. Placing the tablets in the cells of the strip (5) is thus facilitated.

Le système modulable selon l'invention peut incorporer un autre type d'équipement de distribution interchangeable, par exemple sous la forme d'un boîtier assurant de façon directe et aléatoire l'insertion de comprimés de format arrondi dans les alvéoles de la bande (5). En référence à la figure 4, le système peut comporter une boîte de distribution (2) amovible recouvrant une partie de la bande en déplacement (5). Dans le mode de réalisation des figures 1 et 4, la boîte de distribution (2) est composée d'un boîtier (21) ouvert dans sa partie inférieure et d'une goulotte de distribution (20). La goulotte (20) achemine les comprimés déversés depuis la plate-forme vers l'intérieur du boîtier (21). Ce boîtier (21) comporte par exemple entre deux et cinq brosses (B2) dans un volume parallélépipédique. Les axes respectifs des brosses (B2) se prolongent par des liaisons rapides de type tournevis, c'est-à-dire des parties mâles (25, figure 4) dotées d'un embout sensiblement rectangulaire apte à s'engager dans une rainure complémentaire (4, figure 1).The modular system according to the invention can incorporate another type of interchangeable dispensing equipment, for example in the form of a casing providing a direct and random way of inserting round-shaped tablets into the cells of the strip (5). ). With reference to the figure 4 , the system may comprise a removable distribution box (2) covering a portion of the moving strip (5). In the embodiment of figures 1 and 4 , the distribution box (2) is composed of a housing (21) open in its lower part and a distribution chute (20). The chute (20) conveys the tablets spilled from the platform to the inside of the housing (21). This housing (21) comprises for example between two and five brushes (B2) in a parallelepiped volume. The respective axes of the brushes (B2) are extended by fast links of the screwdriver type, that is to say the male parts (25, figure 4 ) having a substantially rectangular endpiece adapted to engage in a complementary groove (4, figure 1 ).

Comme illustré à la figure 4, le boîtier (21) peut comprendre des éléments de fixation et de centrage (44), par exemple disposés à chaque extrémité du boîtier (21) et orientés vers la surface (100) d'attache. Ces éléments (44) sont du type rapide à manipuler et peuvent simplement consister en des éléments mâles, tandis qu'une série d'organes de fixation (42) comprenant des points de fixation de type femelle, par exemple au moins deux points de fixation, sont prévus dans la surface (100) d'attache pour permettre de fixer la boîte de distribution (2) de façon horizontale juste au-dessus de la bande (5) en déplacement. La manipulation de ces éléments (44) peut être réalisée à l'aide de vis moletées (46), l'utilisateur n'ayant qu'à manipuler deux molettes (46) comme illustré à la figure 1 pour solidariser la boîte (2) de distribution au bâti (1). Les liaisons rapides entre parties mâles (25) prolongeant l'axe des brosses (B2) s'enclenchent alors automatiquement dans les rainures associées (4) du bâti (1).As illustrated in figure 4 , the housing (21) may comprise fixing and centering elements (44), for example arranged at each end of the housing (21) and oriented towards the attachment surface (100). These elements (44) are fast type to handle and may simply consist of male elements, while a series of fasteners (42) comprising female-type attachment points, for example at least two attachment points , are provided in the attachment surface (100) to allow the dispensing box (2) to be fixed horizontally just above the moving web (5). The manipulation of these elements (44) can be achieved by means of knurled screws (46), the user having to manipulate two knobs (46) as illustrated in FIG. figure 1 to secure the distribution box (2) to the frame (1). The quick links between male parts (25) extending the axis of the brushes (B2) then engage automatically in the associated grooves (4) of the frame (1).

Dans l'exemple des figures 1 et 4, le boîtier (21) comprend des saillies latérales à ses deux extrémités (22, 23), de sorte que le boîtier (21) peut être associé avec un bloc (13) avancé par rapport au reste des surfaces d'attache (100). Ce bloc (13, figure 6) reçoit l'extrémité des axes des brosses (B2) et permet leur entraînement en rotation, grâce à des moteurs indépendants (M2). Une buse (12) d'aspiration des poussières est prévue latéralement sur le bâti (1) et peut communiquer avec un canal d'évacuation des poussières disposé dans la partie en saillie d'une extrémité (22) du boîtier, comme représenté à la figure 1.In the example of figures 1 and 4 , the housing (21) has lateral projections at both ends (22, 23) so that the housing (21) can be associated with a block (13) advanced relative to the rest of the attachment surfaces (100). This block (13, figure 6 ) receives the end of the axes of the brushes (B2) and allows them to be rotated by independent motors (M2). A dust suction nozzle (12) is provided laterally on the frame (1) and can communicate with a dust discharge channel disposed in the projecting portion of one end (22) of the housing, as shown in FIG. figure 1 .

En référence à la figure 1, la ou les surfaces (100) d'attache permettant de connecter les équipements respectifs de distribution comportent entre quatre et huit liaisons rapides de type tournevis pour raccorder un organe d'entraînement respectif de l'axe des brosses rotatives (B1, B2, B3) à des éléments de motorisation (M1, M2), qui sont par exemple des moteurs indépendants.With reference to the figure 1 , the one or more fastening surfaces (100) for connecting the respective dispensing equipment comprise between four and eight screwdriver type quick links for connecting a respective drive member of the axis of the rotating brushes (B1, B2, B3 ) motor elements (M1, M2), which are for example independent motors.

Le bâti (1) utilisé dans l'invention, comme illustré à la figure 2, comporte ainsi des organes d'entraînement en rotation actionnés via les éléments de motorisation (M1, M2) qui sont avantageusement disposés à au moins deux niveaux distincts de hauteur (h1, h2). Il est donc permis grâce à ce bâti (1), de faire tourner à un premier niveau de hauteur, ou niveau haut (h1), l'axe d'au moins une brosse rotative (B1) de l'ensemble (3) à rampes de distribution descendantes, et à un niveau bas (h2) l'axe d'au moins une brosse rotative (B2) de ladite boîte horizontale de distribution (2). Un organe d'entraînement disposé à ce second niveau de hauteur (h2) peut être utilisé pour entraîner en rotation une brosse (B3) à coucher les comprimés amenés par le guide vertical (32) de l'ensemble (3) à rampes de distribution.The frame (1) used in the invention, as illustrated in FIG. figure 2 , and thus comprises rotary drive members actuated via the motorization elements (M1, M2) which are advantageously arranged at at least two distinct levels of height (h1, h2). It is therefore possible thanks to this frame (1), to rotate at a first level of height, or high level (h1), the axis of at least one rotating brush (B1) of the assembly (3) to downward distribution ramps, and at a low level (h2) the axis of at least one rotating brush (B2) of said horizontal distribution box (2). A drive member disposed at this second height level (h2) can be used to rotate a brush (B3) to bed the tablets fed by the vertical guide (32) of the set (3) with distribution ramps .

Comme on l'a décrit, l'entraînement des éléments mobiles des ensembles interchangeables de distribution a lieu à travers la plaque d'attache (100). En particulier, les arbres des moteurs d'entraînement présentent des embouts qui sont accessibles à travers cette paroi pour se raccorder aux axes des éléments rotatifs. A part les accès de ce genre, cette paroi est avantageusement pleine. De plus chacun des éléments des ensembles interchangeables qui sont en contact avec les comprimés est séparé du bâti (1) par une paroi verticale. Cela permet notamment d'isoler les brosses (B) de la surface d'attache (100) et d'éviter ainsi une diffusion des composés chimiques qui provoquerait des risques de contamination d'un type de comprimés mis en oeuvre à l'autre.As described, drive of the movable members of the interchangeable dispensing assemblies takes place through the attachment plate (100). In particular, the shafts of the drive motors have tips that are accessible through this wall to connect to the axes of the rotating elements. Apart from the accesses of this kind, this wall is advantageously full. In addition, each of the elements of the interchangeable assemblies which are in contact with the tablets is separated from the frame (1) by a vertical wall. This makes it possible, in particular, to isolate the brushes (B) from the attachment surface (100) and thus avoiding a diffusion of the chemical compounds which would cause risks of contamination from one type of tablet implemented to the other.

Claims (12)

  1. Modular tablet-distributing system for the packaging of tablets in an alveolate strip (5) which is in displacement underneath a device for supplying tablets in loose form, wherein a frame (1) for mounting motorised-control elements has a connection surface (100) provided with at least two series of fastening members (41, 42) for the detachable mounting, respectively, of at least two interchangeable distributing units (2, 3) in a situation of functional relationship each with at least certain of the said motorised-control elements for the purpose of driving means of its own which it comprises for the purpose of carrying out the distribution of the tablets between the device for supplying them in loose form and the alveolate strip.
  2. Tablet-distributing system according to claim 1, wherein the said interchangeable units comprise at least one unit for effecting distribution by spreading-out with rotary brushes which follow each other above the trajectory of the alveolate strip, and at least one channelled-distribution unit with guide ramps depositing the tablets one after the other in lined-up cells in the alveolate strip.
  3. Tablet-distributing system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the connection surface of the frame has a vertical component so as to be capable of supporting fittings comprising the various elements making up the various interchangeable units which are mounted on the frame (1) so as to be able to function in the distribution of the tablets from the device for supplying them in loose form, which is situated at a relatively high level in the system, to the plane in which the alveolate strip passes by and which is situated at a relatively low level.
  4. Tablet-distributing system according to claim 1, wherein the frame supports at least one motorising element (M1, M2) for driving the rotary brushes (B1, B2) in rotation above the trajectory of displacement of the strip (5), a supporting unit (S) for supporting, at a height in relation to the strip (5) which is in displacement, a platform (P) for bringing in tablets in loose form, the connection surface with a vertical component having at least two series of fastening members (41, 42) which make it possible to detachably attach at least two interchangeable-distribution units, including a channelled-distribution unit (3) with descending distributing ramps and a unit for effecting distribution by spreading-out which comprises a substantially horizontal box with rotary brushes (2) which is supplemented by a supply chute (20) with a vertical component rejoining the said platform.
  5. System according to claim 4, wherein the frame (1) comprises members for effecting driving in rotation which are actuated via the said motorising elements (M1, M2) which are accessible through the connection surface of said frame so as to be connected in a detachable manner to the various rotary elements of the distributing units, and are disposed at at least two distinct levels in height (h1, h2) so as to cause to rotate, at a first, relatively high level in height (h1), the spindle of at least one rotary brush (B1) of the unit with descending distributing ramps, and at a second, relatively low level in height (h2), the spindle of at least one rotary brush (B2) of the said horizontal distributing box (2).
  6. System according to any of claims 1 to 5, wherein the said frame with its connection surface is adapted to receive, alternatively, channelled-distribution units with guide ramps of a number of different types, which are to be chosen from among, especially, those in which the ramps are inclined almost vertically so that the tablets run through them easily as a result of gravity, or those in which the ramps are at less of an inclination but are subjected to vibrations that promote the descent of the tablets, those in which the tablets are introduced into ramps of this kind from the device for supplying them in loose form by rotary systems with vanes or by vibrating distributors, or even those in which the ramps are arranged around a cylinder which is driven in rotation so as to cause the tablets to descend.
  7. System according to any of claims 1 to 6, wherein the connection surface of the frame with a vertical component is adjacent to a device for driving the alveolate strip in horizontal displacement, and wherein a series of fastening members comprises at least two fastening points which are at a distance from one another in the direction of advance of the strip, so as to permit the mounting of a box with brushes which supports the rotary dispersing and spreading-out brushes mounted in series just above the strip which is in displacement within a unit for effecting distribution by spreading-out, while another series of fastening members comprises at least two fastening points which are at a distance from one another in the vertical direction, so as to permit the mounting of a ramp for guiding the tablets within a channelled-distribution unit.
  8. System according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the members for fastening elements of the interchangeable distributing elements are associated with means for effecting adjustment in relative position, between the elements and a plane of displacement of the alveolate strip and/or between the elements from one to the other.
  9. System according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the frame comprises means for mounting, in terms of fastening and functioning, a rotary brush for laying the tablets down and/or a brush with a helical thread serving to move the surplus tablets aside, which means are disposed downstream of the descending ramps belonging to a channelled-distribution unit and downstream of a box with brushes belonging to a unit for effecting distribution by spreading-out.
  10. System according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the connecting means providing the link between, on the same side of a wall (100) having the said connection surface as the strip which is in displacement, the spindles of the rotary brushes and other elements which are to be driven in rotation, and the driving shafts of the motorising elements which are mounted in the frame on the other side of the said wall, are advantageously embodied in the form of means of the screwdriver type operating by the axial fitting-in of a member with a male tip into a cooperating member with a female tip through the said wall.
  11. System according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the frame is equipped with presence sensors which detect what model of distributing element has just been mounted, in a situation appropriate to its operation, on the connection surface, and which transmit the information to a computer for managing the installation which has available previously recorded data, as a function of which it automatically calculates what motorising elements will then have to be started up, and which orders the bringing-into-operation of said elements accordingly.
  12. System according to claim 11, wherein, for each mode of distribution by spreading-out or by channelling, there are available, in the memory of the management means, a number of series of operating parameters which have been previously defined in accordance with the possibilities of adjustment that suit each particular type of the tablets to be packaged.
EP06004930A 2005-03-11 2006-03-10 Modular dispensing system for packaging tablets in a pocketed web Active EP1700786B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

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FR0502426A FR2882987B1 (en) 2005-03-11 2005-03-11 MODULAR DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM IN AN ALVEOLE BAND PROVIDING INTERCHANGEABILITY BETWEEN DIFFERENT DISTRIBUTION CONFIGURATIONS

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EP1700786A1 EP1700786A1 (en) 2006-09-13
EP1700786B1 true EP1700786B1 (en) 2009-11-04

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US (1) US7383674B2 (en)
EP (1) EP1700786B1 (en)
AT (1) ATE447527T1 (en)
CA (1) CA2538212A1 (en)
DE (1) DE602006010126D1 (en)
ES (1) ES2336237T3 (en)
FR (1) FR2882987B1 (en)

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Publication number Publication date
EP1700786A1 (en) 2006-09-13
DE602006010126D1 (en) 2009-12-17
US7383674B2 (en) 2008-06-10
US20060201109A1 (en) 2006-09-14
ES2336237T3 (en) 2010-04-09
CA2538212A1 (en) 2006-09-11
FR2882987A1 (en) 2006-09-15
ATE447527T1 (en) 2009-11-15
FR2882987B1 (en) 2007-05-04

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