Abstract: A hopper and method for transferring raw material, which can prevent segregation due to the impact caused by falling of the raw material powder when different types of raw material powders are transferred. The hopper for a raw material powder according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes: a hopper body having an inner space in which the raw material powder is stored and including an outlet which is formed through the lower end thereof and through which the raw material powder is discharged; a transfer pipe to which the raw material powder discharged through the outlet is transferred and which has a region, through which the raw material powder is transferred, divided into a plurality of regions; and a slide gate unit disposed between the outlet and the transfer pipe to open or close the transfer pipe while adjusting a degree of opening of the transfer pipe.

Abstract: A trash container includes a container unit and an ultrasonic deodorizing device. The container unit includes a container having a top opening and a container cavity, and a container cover being moved between an opened position and a closed position. The ultrasonic deodorizing device includes a deodorizing carrier supported above the top opening of the container body for containing deodorant in liquid form, an ultrasonic nozzle operatively coupled at the deodorizing carrier for downwardly injecting the deodorant in an atomization manner below the top opening of the container body, and a nozzle controller configured to control and activate the ultrasonic nozzle.

Abstract: Security flaps for use with cash trays and cash trays including such security flaps are disclosed. An apparatus includes a cash tray having a base and a plurality of walls that extend from the base and define a plurality of paper-currency compartments. A plurality of distal edges of the walls define openings of the paper-currency compartments. A spring-biased security flap is coupled to the cash tray and adapted to engage or be immediately adjacent the distal edges of the walls of at least one of the paper-currency compartments to cover the corresponding opening.

Abstract: A container is provided. The container comprises a cover, a base, and a body, which includes one or more spine structures and one or more door panels which may open and allow substantially lateral access to the interior of the container. The one or more door panels may be secured in a closed position by a latch mechanism. In a first mode, the latch mechanism is not released. In a second mode, the latch mechanism is released. The first mode and the second mode may operate concurrently and can be accessed separately via different mechanisms. A switch mechanism may alternate between the first mode and the second mode. Alternatively, a pedal includes a first pedal mechanism corresponding to the first mode and a second pedal mechanism corresponding to the second mode.

Abstract: Freezer for biosanitary and cytotoxic waste, which comprises an inner space that houses a waste container, a front door through which the waste container in the inner space is inserted/removed, an upper door through which waste is poured into the inner container, cooling means and inner space temperature control means, wherein, the freezer further comprises an air purifier that treats an air stream coming from the inner space, when opening one of its doors, thus avoiding the emission of both chemical and biological particulate contaminants to the outside environment.

Abstract: Method for tracking sanitary materials and goods with a RFId identification system; the materials and goods provided with at least one label containing a microchip containing data of the material or good and an antenna; the materials and goods placeable in a storage area provided with a plurality of transceiving radio frequency identification antennae and associated connectivity devices; the plurality of antennae and connectivity devices placed so as to receive and exchange information via RFId technology inside the set area, so as to automatically record and detect the loading and/or collecting of the labeled materials and goods and exchange information relative to the identified objects; the method includes: a) carrying out the exchange of tag-antenna information in a range of radiofrequencies comprised between 850 and 960 MHz (UHF); and b) restricting the range of radiofrequencies (UHF) through the shielding of the area arranged for storage of the materials and goods.

Abstract: A system for dispensing, receiving, and tracking towels or other items includes a cabinet structure having first and second interior spaces. An access door provides access to the first interior space, and a return door permits items to be returned to the second interior space. An RFID system conducts read operations to determine how many items having RFID tags are disposed in the first and second interior spaces. The system determines what items have been removed from the first interior space, and associates removed items with specific users. The RFID system conducts read operations as items are returned to the second interior space and credits the user.

Abstract: The invention relates to a system for displaying a medical diagnostic result, comprising at least one diagnostic device having a data output outputting electronic data which represent a diagnostic result that has been obtained using the diagnostic device, and further comprising an electronic data line connection which directs the electronic data to a display device and that has a data line radio link having a radio transmitter and a radio receiver of a mobile radio network, the display device being designed to display the diagnostic result without delay, and the at least one diagnostic device and the radio transmitter being accommodated in a transport device.

Abstract: A vending machine includes a change cabinet, a guiding duct, and a guiding member. The change cabinet stores a plurality of coins. The change cabinet includes a bottom wall. The bottom wall defines an output opening. The guiding duct includes a bottom panel and two side panels extending from the bottom panel. The guiding member is mounted between the two side panels. The guiding member includes a guiding panel body. The change cabinet is mounted on the guiding duct to enable the output opening to be located between the two side panels. There is an acute angle defined between the guiding panel body and the bottom wall to guide a coin from the output opening to move to the bottom panel.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device and a method for storing banknotes, having at least two banknote storage containers (26 to 40). Each of the banknote storage containers (26 to 40) has at least one banknote withdrawal and/or feed opening. Further, a first receiving unit (14) for receiving at least the first banknote storage container (26 to 32) is provided. Moreover, a second receiving unit (16) for receiving at least the second banknote storage container (34 to 40) is provided. The second receiving unit (16) is arranged horizontally offset relative to the first receiving unit (14).

Abstract: A cash till having a drawer (2) with a plurality of compartments (4) for storing coins, notes or vouchers. Each compartment (4) has an associated load cell (6), which produces a signal that is proportional to the weight of the compartment contents. The signal is provided to a monitoring apparatus (10) that takes readings from the load cell (6) whilst the till drawer (2) is closed. If a preceding reading is within a threshold amount of the current reading, then the preceding reading is stored as a verified value. The method removes jitter and drift in the signals produced by the load cells (6) of the cash till.

Abstract: An apparatus for receiving waste contained in a container. The apparatus including a housing and a receiving mechanism coupled to the housing. The receiving mechanism is configured to receive the container. The apparatus further includes an analysis mechanism coupled to the housing; the analysis mechanism is configured to analyze the container.

Abstract: A storage housing (10) for a waste receptacle (11) is disclosed. The housing comprises a base (12)and side walls (13a-d)which extend from the base(12), and which terminate at an upper periphery (14) thereof. At least one of the side walls (13a) comprise a door (21) which can be opened and closed to enable the waste receptacle (11) to be removably positioned within the housing (10) through the at least one side wall (13a).The housing (10) further comprises locking means for releasably locking the door (21) when closed and a lid (16) which is moveable with respect to the side walls (13a - d) between a first position in which it substantially closes the housing (10) and a second position in which it substantially opens the housing (10) to enable waste to be deposited in the waste receptacle (11).

Abstract: A system for dispensing, receiving, and tracking towels or other items includes a cabinet structure having first and second interior spaces. An access door provides access to the first interior space, and a return door permits items to be returned to the second interior space. An RFID system conducts read operations to determine how many items having RFID tags are disposed in the first and second interior spaces. The system determines what items have been removed from the first interior space, and associates removed items with specific users. The RFID system conducts read operations as items are returned to the second interior space and credits the user.

Abstract: A parcel box for receiving and keeping parcels in a theftproof manner has a box having a drawer which can be pulled out and pushed in, and a prevention mechanism that prevents unauthorized removal of parcel. The prevention mechanism has a placing portion on which the parcel is placed, a blocking mechanism that blocks pulling out of the drawer from the box when parcel is placed on the placing portion, and an unblocking mechanism that unblocks the parcel box drawer. The placing portion has two platforms, each having a first end and a second end situated opposite each other. The two platforms are facing each other or are placed in adjacent relation to each other, with the ends of the platforms directed to opposite sides. Each platform is pivotable about a pivot axle fixed in the drawer.

Abstract: A parcel box for receiving and keeping parcels in a theftproof manner has a box having a drawer which can be pulled out and pushed in, and a prevention mechanism that prevents unauthorized removal of parcel. The prevention mechanism has a platform for placing parcel, a blocking mechanism that blocks pulling out of the drawer from the box when parcel is placed on the platform, and an unblocking mechanism that unblocks the parcel box drawer. The platform has a first end and a second end situated opposite each other. The platform is swingable about a cross pivot axle fixed in the drawer. The first end of the platform is situated lower than the second end. The blocking mechanism has a blocking bracket and a stop. The blocking bracket has a first end and a second end situated opposite each other.

Abstract: Automated teller machines (ATMs) and ATM components are disclosed. Methods of making and using ATMs and ATM components are also disclosed.

Abstract: A reagent cabinet for an automated processing apparatus. The reagent cabinet has a housing, and a drawer slidably mounted in the housing. The drawer has a lower deck adapted to receive a fluid reservoir, and an upper deck located above the lower deck and adapted to receive a fluid supply container. A supply connection hose is provided to selectively connect the fluid supply container to the fluid reservoir. A reservoir connection hose is provided to selectively connect to the fluid reservoir and to convey fluid from the fluid reservoir to a downstream location outside the cabinet. A pump is mounted on the drawer. The pump is adapted to convey fluid through either the supply connection hose or the reservoir connection hose.

Abstract: A bottle return station preferably with a dispensing station provides for the receipt of empty bottles. Bottles are provided through an acceptor which accepts bottles having a particular configuration while not accepting others. The empty bottle returns are guided to a receiving station where they can be retrieved by an operator. Meanwhile a dispensing station can be accessed by users.

Abstract: A grooming table with an integrated hair and debris collection system. More specifically, the grooming table comprises a vent system that utilizes a blower to direct several streams of air current about a pet while being dried or groomed. The hair/debris that is released by the pet is carried by the air current into an air intake of the blower, where it is collected by a collection basket with filtration media. The air collected in the air current is recycled back into the blower without the hair and debris. The grooming table further comprises a blow dryer for concentrated air currents that can be manipulated by the user to dry a pet.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for receiving a recyclable product is disclosed herein. In one embodiment the apparatus includes: a structure defining an interior cavity, the structure having a plurality of walls; a bottle return mechanism for determining when a bottle has been received within the interior cavity, comprising: an elongated cylinder providing a passage into the interior cavity, the elongated cylinder having an inlet opening proximate to an exterior of the enclosed structure and an outlet opening proximate to the interior cavity; a bottle return mechanism configured to provide an output when a bottle has been inserted into the elongated cylinder; and a dispensing rack secured to one of the walls of the enclosure.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for receiving a recyclable product is disclosed herein. In one embodiment the apparatus includes: an enclosed structure defining an interior cavity; a bottle return mechanism for determining when a bottle has been received within the interior cavity; and a mechanism coupled to the bottle return mechanism, the mechanism being configured to provide an output when the bottle return mechanism has determined that a bottle has been inserted into the interior cavity.

Abstract: A medical implement dispensing and disposal system. The medical implement dispensing and disposal system comprises a container having an open end with a dispensing chamber and a disposal chamber defined within the container. A cover is configured to substantially close the open end of the container. The cover defines a disposal opening in communication with the disposal chamber. A dispensing opening is defined in either the container or cover and in communication with the dispensing chamber. A biasing assembly is positioned in the dispensing chamber and configured to provide a biasing force toward the dispensing opening.

Abstract: A system for dispensing, receiving, and tracking towels or other items includes a cabinet structure having first and second interior spaces. An access door provides access to the first interior space, and a return door permits items to be returned to the second interior space. An RFID system conducts read operations to determine how many items having RFID tags are disposed in the first and second interior spaces. The system determines what items have been removed from the first interior space, and associates removed items with specific users. The RFID system conducts read operations as items are returned to the second interior space and credits the user.

Abstract: A mop holding device featuring a base, the front wall has a top edge and a top portion, the top portion is angled such that the top edge extends outwardly; a mop opening for receiving a pole portion of the mop disposed in the front wall; and a support bar in the inner cavity of the base for helping to support a head of the mop. A curved inner wall with a vertex is disposed in the inner cavity below the support bar, a hole is disposed in the vertex to allow passage of water out of the base. Optionally a backsplash is attached on the base, wherein a replaceable deodorizer component may be disposed on an inner surface of the backsplash. A mop holder component and/or hooks may be disposed on the base. The device may be mounted atop a stand or an expandable stand.

Abstract: A medium process apparatus is provided. The medium process apparatus comprises a state detection unit configured to detect a state of a transferring medium and a support unit configured to support the transferring medium. The support unit comprises a plurality of support parts successively disposed in a transfer direction of the medium. The plurality of support parts comprise a second support part facing the state detection unit and a first support part disposed at a front or rear side of the second support part in the transfer direction of the medium.

Abstract: An automated banking machine is operated responsive to data bearing records. The machine operates using data read from user cards and causes funds to be transferred. The machine includes a housing, a card reader operative to read indicia on user cards corresponding to financial accounts, a display, a cash dispenser, a secure enclosure including a chest and a door supported on hinges. A fascia is supported by the door through planar linkages and movable from a position adjacent the door to a position away from the door. A side extension is supported by the door through a planar linkage and movable from a position adjacent the hinges to a position spaced apart from the hinges. A connecting linkage operatively connects at least one fascia linkage with the side extension linkage.

Abstract: A shredding/recycling paper collection system and device, wherein a cabinet-style housing with a self-locking door is adapted with a paper guard member to prevent unauthorized reach-in access and assist with directional feed, and wherein the door-mounted paper guard member and the uniquely supported collection bag hangers facilitate easy authorized access to collection bag contents, while also providing secure positioning for weighty materials within the housing.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device and a method for storing banknotes, having at least two banknote storage containers (26 to 40). Each of the banknote storage containers (26 to 40) has at least one banknote withdrawal and/or feed opening. Further, a first receiving unit (14) for receiving at least the first banknote storage container (26 to 32) is provided. Moreover, a second receiving unit (16) for receiving at least the second banknote storage container (34 to 40) is provided. The second receiving unit (16) is arranged horizontally offset relative to the first receiving unit (14).

Abstract: The present invention provides machines, methods and apparatus for automatically vending, damping, delivering and returning large heavy product containers such as 5-gallon water bottles. In some embodiments, damping methods and apparatus are provided to gently transfer large heavy product containers from one level to another inside a vending machine. In some embodiments, methods and apparatus including adjustable support rails are provided for handling different sized large heavy product containers inside a vending machine. In some embodiments, delivery methods and apparatus are provided for use with large heavy product containers. In some embodiments, methods and apparatus for returning large product containers are provided. Some or all of these features may be provided in a single vending machine, or in multiple machines, and multiple features or machines may be controlled by a single computer processor.

Abstract: In one embodiment, an assembly including a receptacle having a drawer slidable in the receptacle for receiving debris into a suction debris collection system; the drawer includes: a floor; walls extending up from the floor, the floor and the walls defining a chamber having a forward part and a rearward part; an outlet from the rearward part of the chamber; and a seal configured to prevent the passage of air through an opening to the suction system when the drawer is in a closed position and suction is supplied to the opening.

Abstract: An example configurable display assembly includes a housing having a first wall, an opposing second wall, and at least one divider movable between an engaged position and a disengaged position. The divider spans from the first wall to the second wall when in the engaged position. At least one of the housing or the divider flexes to establish clearance for moving the divider to the engaged position. The housing and the divider establish at least one first bin receiving area when the divider is in the engaged position. The housing establishes a second bin receiving area when the divider is in the disengaged position. The second bin receiving area is larger than the first bin receiving area.

Abstract: A mop holding device comprising a base; a plurality of ventilation holes disposed in the first side wall of the base; a mop opening for receiving the mop disposed at the top edge of the front wall of the base; a support bar for helping to support the mop head attached to the first and second side wall of the base near the front wall; and a removable tray for collecting water from the mop slidably received in an aperture disposed in the first side wall near the bottom wall of the base; wherein the mop is draped over the mop opening such that the head of the mop is inserted into the inner cavity of the base and over the support bar.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a debris receiving drawer is mounted in a receptacle bay slideable between a single closed position and an open position, wherein the drawer includes a basin, a channel from the basin, and an outlet from the channel. The basin is configured to guide debris entering the basin toward the channel and the channel is configured to channel debris to the outlet.

Abstract: A medical implement dispensing and disposal system is configured for mounting within an interior of an enclosure having a first opening for receiving soiled medical implements and a second opening for dispensing medical implements. The system comprises a dispensing chamber configured to be substantially enclosed within the interior of the enclosure and removed from the interior of the enclosure. The dispensing chamber is configured to contain medical implements and has an access opening for passage of medical implements from the dispensing chamber. The access opening is positioned for alignment with the second opening of the enclosure to facilitate passage of medical implements from the enclosure. The system further comprises a disposal chamber configured to be substantially enclosed within the interior of the enclosure adjacent the dispensing chamber and removed from the interior of the enclosure.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a drawer for receiving debris into a suction debris collection system includes: a floor; walls extending up from the floor, the floor and the walls defining a chamber having a forward part and a rearward part; an outlet from the rearward part of the chamber; and a seal configured to prevent the passage of air through an opening to the suction system when the drawer is in a closed position and suction is supplied to the opening.

Abstract: The invention comprises a trash compactor cabinet formed from two panels of sheet metal. The panels are the same shape and are attached with one being inverted compared to the other along a V-shaped channel at one end of the panel. The panels have a V-shaped channel in the back side of the panel to form a passageway between shelves in the cabinet and the rear wall of the cabinet. A front portion of the panel is formed by a channel for attaching doors or door frames to the front of the cabinet. The cabinet can be formed by quickly and easily bending sheet metal into the panels and welding the panels together.

Abstract: A medical implement dispensing and disposal system is configured for mounting within an interior of an enclosure having a first opening for receiving soiled medical implements and a second opening for dispensing medical implements. The system comprises a dispensing chamber and a disposal chamber defined by separate containers and configured to be substantially enclosed within the interior of the enclosure and removed from the interior of the enclosure. The dispensing chamber is configured to contain medical implements and has an access opening positioned for alignment with the second opening of the enclosure to facilitate passage of medical implements from the enclosure. The disposal chamber is configured to collect soiled medical implements and has an inlet opening positioned for alignment with the first opening of the enclosure to facilitate passage of soiled medical implements into the enclosure.

Abstract: A laundry treating apparatus is provided which can be manufactured easily. The laundry treating apparatus includes a cabinet, a drum rotatably disposed in the cabinet configured to hold laundry therein, a front cover including a door opening to load the laundry in the drum, and at least one panel opening configured to receive a control panel therein.

Abstract: A delivery receptacle has a divider wall between the upper and lower compartments, a divider wall opening selectively sealed by two inner pivotable panels, outer side edges of the inner pivotable panels being connected by spring-loaded hinges to a side edges of the divider wall opening for movement about the hinges between normally closed and forcibly-opened positions, and the outer side edges of the inner pivotable panels and the side edges of the divider wall opening being perpendicular to the upper compartment opening.

Abstract: A first unit comprises a projection having a first planar portion and a second planar portion, which intersect at an angle. The projection is an extension of the first unit, has a linear axis, and is perpendicular to a base end of the first unit. A second unit comprises a mounting face and a receptacle. The receptacle has a shape for receiving and holding the projection. The base end is aligned with the mounting face by inserting the projection into the receptacle. The receptacle engages the first planar portion and the second planar portion, thereby preventing rotation of the projection, the first unit and the second unit about the linear axis.

Abstract: A health care test kiosk includes a carrel body that supports a console housing and has a vacant knee-space beneath the console housing. The carrel body includes a support side panel forming a lateral side and extending beyond the console housing and the knee-space. A physiological test interface is connected to and supported by the carrel body on the support side panel. A retractable seat is movably connected to the support side panel of the carrel body for selective positioning in a location ranging from withdrawn into the knee-space beneath the console housing to extended completely from the knee-space.

Abstract: A molded plastic collection bin with transparent front and rear panels receives entry blanks introduced through a slot in a covering counter. The collection bin is supported on two side frames which are formed of tubular aluminum with riveted plastic sheets. Front and rear plastic panels extend between the two side frames and are engaged on protruding fasteners. The counter, the side frames, and the collection bin each have aligned holes which receive two connecting carriage bolts. A bungee cord resiliently extends between the carriage bolts within the collection bin, retaining the assembly in a connected orientation. An information display has a metal frame with retractable threaded tubes which engage with the counter. Printed elements such as posters are clasped between plastic sheets and engaged with C-channels on the frame. A bent metal door selectively covers an access opening in the rear plastic wall of the collection bin.

Abstract: A combined photofinishing storage, display, and ordering merchandising unit. The unit includes an order workstation having a front wall, and a writing surface extending from the wall. A dispenser for dispensing order envelopes, and a collection bin for receiving filled order envelopes. A pair of display sections are provided for displaying of merchandise, one display section being placed on each side of the order workstation and positioned so as to define a storage area between the pair of display sections and workstation. At least one of the display sections is movable so as to allow access to the storage area. A display tower disposed adjacent the shelf which can be used for highlighting a featured product. One of the display sections may be movable for adjusting the width of the merchandising unit.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for collecting and compacting articles, such as hospital scrub garments. Included is a cabinet assembly, having user and operator accessible doors; collection bags and support associate with the cabinet; a control assembly including a microprocessor and receiver board capable of recognizing an authorized user and permit him or her access to the apparatus, and optionally a video monitoring system; a drive assembly comprising a drive motor, arm linkage, drive chain and sprockets; a pair of sweeping arms operable by the drive assembly and which cooperate with a pair of packing arm assemblies. The sweeping arms urge garments deposited by authorized users downward and to the side in the cabinet and the packing arm cooperates to compact garments which have dropped into the collection bags. A method is disclosed for selectively identifying and permitting user access to the apparatus and for automatically processing received garments into a compacted condition in the collection bags.

Abstract: A dual-purpose storage and display apparatus includes a storage and dispensing bin, a top cover for the bin, and an information display device mounted on the bin. The storage and dispensing bin defines an interior chamber for storing articles, which can be disposed in boxes and cartons in the bin, and a lower dispensing opening in the front of the bin through which the articles can be removed by users from the boxes and cartons stored in the interior chamber of the bin. The top cover is movable relative to the bin for opening and closing an open top of the bin. The information display device is mounted to the front of the bin above the lower dispensing opening for displaying information targeted to users who remove articles from the bin. The information display device can be a frame mounted to the front of the bin for defining a window and a slot at least partially surrounding the window for receiving the insertion therein of a sheet containing information for viewing through the window.

Abstract: A waste bin, having finger pressure members, which may be positioned under a table, with a finger pressure effect and having at least one drawer type waste receiving bin, includes a body plate having finger pressure members with multiple finger pressure protrusions formed on an inclined crook plate with a curved surface, with two finger pressure rolls; a guide rail formed on each of the left and right sides of insertion openings formed on a bottom surface of the body plate, and an insertion groove formed on a front side of the side protrusions; guide grooves having a trail roller which is directed by guide rails, and formed on both outer sides of the receiving bin; stoppers formed on the receiving bins; resilient means fixed on the rear side of each of the insertion openings; and two drawer type dust receiving bins adapted to be inserted to the insertion openings.

Abstract: A method and device for storing and sorting laundry is disclosed comprising one or more elevated laundry bins each with a top end opening and a normally-closed drop bottom. The bins are elevated above a laundry work area so that laundry contained within each bin is released to the laundry work area upon opening the drop bottom. One or more laundry bins can be combined adjacent to each other to form a multiple bin unit which sorts laundry by receiving laundry within the separate laundry bins. The method includes storing the laundry until the volume of a bin is filled whereupon it is released to a laundry machine having a load volume equal to the bin volume.

Abstract: An apparatus for collecting roll films to be developed includes a housing having an opening formed in the front portion. A barrel is rotatably supported in the housing and has an orifice for aligning with the opening and for allowing insertion of the roll film into the barrel. The barrel may enclose the opening when the orifice is disengaged from the opening. The housing includes a pair of channels for guiding a roller and the barrel to move up and down. A roll of strip material is supported in the housing and has an end engaged between the roller and the barrel so as to be sent out of the housing via a slit.

Abstract: A portable desk drawer that functions both as a conventional drawer and an attache case. The portable desk drawer may be attached to various furniture pieces by a bracket which attaches to the glides, or the portable desk drawer may be used in conjunction with existing drawer glide assemblies. The portable desk drawer may easily be removed from the glides by a rotatably attached handle, and then carried by the user in the same manner as an attache case. The portable desk drawer is comprised of a large front compartment and small rear compartments. A lid covers the large front compartments, and a tray, slidably housed inside the portable desk drawer, covers the small rear compartments during portage. The lid can be slid back and a portion of the lid can be flipped upwardly. The tray is further comprised of smaller compartments which are exposed when the tray lid is retracted. A clip on the interior of the lid of the portable desk drawer may be employed when the lid is open.