Abstract: A method of monitoring inventory within a dispensing cabinet. The method includes using an electronic inventory sensor to determine whether an item is removed, electronically reporting from the inventory sensor to a remote inventory data center that an item is removed, the inventory data center being accessible over a secured internet connection, and sending an electronic order from the inventory data center to a remote vendor to replace the removed item.

Abstract: A method of monitoring inventory within a dispensing cabinet. The method includes using different treatment of allocation codes, web-based special ordering, considered consumed check in check out function, find item function for searching different locations, defective item return function, market research function, quota function, and consignment function.

Abstract: A method and system of dispensing items in a controlled manner from cabinets or similar enclosures, re-ordering the dispensed articles or items, and providing inventory and other information about the items and users in the system. The invention utilizes a distributed network and permits users to browse and search for any item across multiple enclosures from any location. The method and system can track inventory, generate administrative reports, and independently initiate orders based on aggregate inventory levels of multiple enclosures to gain the benefit of volume discounts, minimize deliveries, maximize availability of items, or generate individual orders based on specific enclosures to maintain just-in-time inventory levels. The method and system also track the removal and stocking of items through unique identification strings, so that individual access, use, and theft of items can be monitored.

Abstract: A method and system of dispensing items in a controlled manner from cabinets or similar enclosures, re-ordering the dispensed articles or items, and providing inventory and other information about the items and users in the system. The invention utilizes a distributed network and permits users to browse and search for any item across multiple enclosures from any location. The method and system can track inventory, generate administrative reports, and independently initiate orders based on aggregate inventory levels of multiple enclosures to gain the benefit of volume discounts, minimize deliveries, maximize availability of items, or generate individual orders based on specific enclosures to maintain just-in-time inventory levels. The method and system also track the removal and stocking of items through unique identification strings, so that individual access, use, and theft of items can be monitored.