Case Study: Automated Medication Dispensing Machine
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Overview:
This project represents the partnering of ATW's machine building experience with the customer's current processes. The customer had neither the in house expertise nor manpower to move up to the next level of automation that was requested by their customer. A plan was put together by ATW and with ongoing communication this system was developed to more than double the prescription output and tripled the available cassettes while maintaining the integrity of the patient specific medical needs. The project was so successful over 15 machines were built, tested, and installed in locations throughout the United States in 24 months.
Values & Benefits:
  • Designed for single or expanded models.
  • Higher output.
  • Barcode conformation from beginning to end of prescription filling.
  • Modular design to allow installation into all types of locations. 
 
Solution:
  • System consists of two sections, medication picking/dispensing and packaging/labeling.
  • Medications are stored in cassettes that are placed onto two carrousels.
  • Cassettes are picked simultaneously with two computer controlled x-y slides and placed onto eight dispensing x-y slides.
  • Completed medication loads are transferred to a packaging dial at the end of the machine.
  • An eight station cam driven dial is used to move between card/blister, medication placement, folding and sealing stations.
  • Pick and place unit removes the completed card for labeling and stacking.
Highlights:
  • 304 Different cassettes available.
  • On the fly cassette swaps.
  • Barcode verification from cassette load to stacking of the prescription ensures accurate and safe dispensing.
  • Primary and secondary carrousels allow smaller or expanded machine depending on customer's requirements.