Printing On Or Of Dispensed Or Vended Article Patents (Class 700/235)
  • Patent number: 11900388
    Abstract: A computer-implemented method for providing payment account information in a user account by receiving payment card information by a card reader at a point of sale. An account can be created when the payment card information is read by the card reader. Optionally, a gift card can be scanned prior to the creation of the account, and the gift card information can be combined with the payment card information. The gift card can be an electronic gift card which can be personalized with textual, visual, video, and/or audio portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2022
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2024
    Assignee: Block, Inc.
    Inventor: William Henderson
  • Patent number: 11727348
    Abstract: Systems, methods, and other embodiments associated with self-tuning optimization of a replenishment policy of an item are described. In one embodiment, the method includes determining an initial replenishment policy of the item. A performance of the initial replenishment policy is determined based upon past performance of the initial replenishment policy. The initial replenishment policy is revised to get a service level of the item for future sales periods closer to a target service level of the item. Information is forwarded in real-time about the revised replenishment policy to an order fulfillment facility.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2020
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2023
    Assignee: Oracle International Corporation
    Inventors: Setareh Borjian Boroujeni, Su-Ming Wu
  • Patent number: 11699320
    Abstract: A pharmaceutical dispensing machine comprising a plurality of modules, said plurality of modules comprise one or more sensors configured to monitor at least one pharmaceutical during a pharmaceutical dispensing process and alert when said at least one pharmaceutical is not detected by at least one of said one or more sensors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2020
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2023
    Assignee: Tech Pharmacy Services, LLC
    Inventors: Omer Einav, Doron Shabanov, Tamir Ben David, Anthony Joseph Spero, Eyal Livschitz, Thomas A. Mckinney, Moshe Liberman
  • Patent number: 11682013
    Abstract: Server computers of card issuer-processors can determine a mapping of dependencies of a plurality of components of a card processing protocol and create groups of components that can be executed in parallel. The groups of the components are sequentially processed within a limited time period.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2021
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2023
    Assignee: MARQETA, INC.
    Inventors: Jatin Salla, Pradeep Raju, Amiel Montecillo
  • Patent number: 11676197
    Abstract: Techniques are described for electronic content delivery. One method includes receiving information associated with the prescription order of a user account. In some cases, the information associated with the prescription order includes a medication identifier. The method may include performing a search using the medication identifier to obtain electronic medication documentation. The method may also include transmitting a sponsored content request that includes the medication identifier and receiving sponsored content information responsive to the sponsored content request. The method may further include determining that the user account has authorized communication via a user device and transmitting the electronic medication documentation and/or sponsored content information to the user device. In some examples, the method may include transmitting an indication that the electronic medication documentation and/or sponsored content information was transmitted to the user device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2020
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2023
    Assignee: MarkeTouch Media, LLC
    Inventors: Lyle M. Green, Charles E. Russo, Matthew K. Feltman
  • Patent number: 11648789
    Abstract: A laser printhead assembly for a laser printhead is disclosed herein. The laser printhead assembly may include a laser containment door; and a laser containment housing that is configured to form a sealed enclosure with a label support of a rewriteable label. The sealed enclosure may be configured to include the rewriteable label and the laser printhead. The laser containment door, in a laser-enabled position, may be configured to permit the laser printhead, via a light beam, to modify the rewriteable label and the laser containment door, in a laser-disabled position, may be configured to prevent a light beam from escaping the laser containment housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2020
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2023
    Assignee: Zebra Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: Richard Mark Clayton, Patrick Martin Brown, Chinmay Nanda
  • Patent number: 11587659
    Abstract: Pill pack packaging that monitors and reports on pill compliance is disclosed. The pill pack packaging includes a circuit disposed on the cover of pill receptacles. A processor monitors the changes in electrical signals from the circuit. When the electrical signals change, the processor records the time and date. The processor may also report the time and date of pill receptacle opening to a mobile device via wireless transmission. The device may also be capable of providing alerts regarding lack of compliance or loss of the pill pack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2020
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2023
    Assignee: CIPHER SKIN
    Inventors: Phillip Bogdanovich, Craig Weller, Shaka Joaquin Doyle Bahadu
  • Patent number: 11575673
    Abstract: Centralized support user management in a distributed healthcare information management system. Support user management may include generation of permission data that may be distributed from a central server to one or more local systems. The local systems may execute a healthcare information management application such as, for example, a pharmacy workflow management application. In any regard, central support users at the central server may periodically require access to the local systems to perform, among other activities, technical support or troubleshooting in relation to the application executed at the local system. In turn, provision of permission data from the central server to the local system may allow support users to access the local system with specific permission identification's provided specific ones of the support users. In turn, specific user permissions may be established and support user tracking may be carried out at the local systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2023
    Assignee: Baxter Corporation Englewood
    Inventors: Bhavesh S. Padmani, Matthew A. Valentine, Robert Bossio
  • Patent number: 11481739
    Abstract: A medication disposal and reconciliation kiosk device and processor based system for collecting, identifying and measuring the amount of medication deposited in a collection container wherein the kiosk generates a coupon or other incentive that can be used to purchase new prescriptions, refills or other items, collects pills and liquid medications, including controlled medications such as opioids, chemically treats the collected medication with a non-toxic biodegradable solution or mixture for dissolving the medication, reports medicines collected to predetermined offices or agencies and collects the medication bottles and containers for recycling. The kiosk device includes a barcode reader, keyboard, pill counter, pill identifier, liquid medication collection bin, scale for weighing medication, biodegradable safe liquid for dissolving medication collected, receipt printout, and wireless electronic transmission circuitry or devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2020
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2022
    Inventor: Deberenia McKinzie
  • Patent number: 11273103
    Abstract: A method, a computer program product and a dispensing device for dispensing discrete medicaments, wherein the dispensing device comprises a dispensing section, a collection section and a packaging section, wherein the dispensing section defines an array of feeder positions for holding a plurality of feeder units, wherein the collection section comprises a first collection unit that is movable in a collection direction, wherein the method comprises the steps of: positioning a first feeder unit at a first feeder position; and prior to removing the first feeder unit from the first feeder position, positioning a second feeder unit at a second feeder position, downstream from the first feeder position in the collection direction, wherein the first feeder unit and the second feeder unit hold medicaments of the same first composition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2021
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2022
    Assignee: VMI Holland B.V.
    Inventors: Martinus Johannes Donatus Brakkee, Peter Van Roon, Patrick Van Voorn
  • Patent number: 11144976
    Abstract: Apparatus such as a vending machine can store custom-decorated physical products to be dispensed or made available to users and consumers based on a color sampling of another object or person. The invention also includes the method of creating the packaging of the products based on the color sampling of the object or person.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2021
    Inventors: Robert A. Ziegler, Joel Carpenter, Thomas J. Pigott
  • Patent number: 11096867
    Abstract: A system is provided for storage and reconstitution of IV solutions. The system may include one or more storage and reconstitution devices each configured to store and manipulate IV solution containers containing IV solutions in crystalline form that include hydration chemicals and therapeutic drugs. Crystalline hydration chemicals may include crystalline salts and sugars. The containers may be dimensionally precise enough for mechanical manipulation and configured such that sharp objects such as needles are not needed for fluid delivery to or from the container. Each storage and reconstitution device may store stacked containers and may include components for retrieval of a container from the storage and for reconstitution of the contents therein using a sterile water source within the device. IV doses may be manufactured, under appropriate standards, that can be mechanically reconstituted to produce high-quality doses in real time on the patient care unit or in the pharmacy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2020
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2021
    Assignee: CAREFUSION 303, INC.
    Inventors: Dennis Anthony Tribble, Thomas Utech
  • Patent number: 11031113
    Abstract: Systems and methods may be provided that may enable an individual to retrieve one or more prescription products (e.g., product refills) from a self-service retrieval location such as a counter, drive-thru, drop box, or kiosk. A unique-machine readable code may be associated with a particular medical prescription of a patient, the medical prescription corresponding to one or more prescription products. The unique machine-readable code may be transmitted to a computing device of the individual, who may scan the code at the retrieval location. Identification of the unique machine-readable code may result in dispensing of the one or more prescription products associated with the medical prescription.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2021
    Assignee: WALGREEN CO.
    Inventors: Igor Gershfang, Nimesh S. Jhaveri, Mohsin Ovais Ansari, Fauzia Somani, Adam Robert Snopek
  • Patent number: 10922774
    Abstract: Methods, systems, computer storage media, and graphical user interfaces for population health management are disclosed. The population health management system may allow for cross-continuum tracking and subsequent interactions with transactional systems, providers, and/or patients. The population health management system may include utilizing clinically relevant algorithms to populate registries to enable healthcare providers to better facilitate care for a population of patients. The population health management system may consolidate and provide comprehensive condition-specific and/or patient situation specific information that is accessible and updatable across venues. The population health management system may create cross venue antibiograms based on medications information and susceptibility results which can be filtered for selected demographics.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2021
    Assignee: Cerner Innovation, Inc.
    Inventors: Hugh H. Ryan, Kelly Michelle Luden, Amanda Kathleen Sullins
  • Patent number: 10614916
    Abstract: An aspect of some embodiments of the invention relates to a pharmaceutical dispensing machine configured to perform a pharmaceutical dispensing process, comprising: at least one module configured in a first configuration to perform at least one first part of said pharmaceutical dispensing process; dispensing hardware configured in a second configuration to perform at least one second part of said pharmaceutical dispensing process; and circuitry, which controls and coordinates the operation of said at least one module and said dispensing hardware using at least one parameter related to said dispensing pharmaceutical process; wherein said at least one first part of said pharmaceutical dispensing process and said at least one second part of said pharmaceutical dispensing process overlap in functionality by at least one subassembly component in said dispensing hardware which overlaps in functionality with said dispensing module in said pharmaceutical dispensing process and are performed at a same dispensing event
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2020
    Assignee: Tech Pharmacy Services, LLC
    Inventors: Omer Einav, Doron Shabanov, Yuval Siman, Tamir Ben David, Anthony Joseph Spero, Eyal Livschitz, Thomas A. McKinney, Moshe Liberman
  • Patent number: 10456332
    Abstract: This invention provides a controlled dosage form-dispensing device, comprising a multi-chamber, bulk medicine storage and distribution unit, wherein said unit is provided with a plurality of individual dosage form-containing storage chambers with respective delivery ports; and a personal medication dispenser comprising a fixed dosage form extracting station comprising a dosage form receiving and extracting mechanism; wherein the medication dispenser is provided with a controller which moves the bulk medicine storage and distribution unit sequentially bringing a respective delivery port of a predetermined chamber into register with the fixed dosage form extracting station such that the dosage form receiving and extracting mechanism extracts and receives only one dosage form at a time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2019
    Assignee: P.C.O.A. DEVICES LTD.
    Inventor: Ilan Paz
  • Patent number: 10275977
    Abstract: A medicine sorting apparatus includes a receiving part, an identifying part and a storing part. The storing part includes a plurality of storing trays arranged in multiple stages. A storing area for each of returned medicines is defined at the time of storing each of the returned medicines according to a size of each of the returned medicines identified by the identifying part. Each of the returned medicines is stored in the storing tray in a state that the storing area for each of the returned medicines is associated with identification information of each of the returned medicines so that each of the returned medicines can be taken from the storing tray by a scalar type robot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2019
    Assignee: YUYAMA MGF. CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Akitomi Kohama, Yasuhiro Shigeyama, Hiromichi Tsuda, Takashi Ueno, Hidenori Tsuji, Mei Zhang
  • Patent number: 10207406
    Abstract: An operation instruction list including starting points and ending points of trajectories of a plurality of robot arms is generated (a trajectory definition data generation process). Order of generation of trajectories is determined in accordance with the operation instruction list (a generation order determination process). A trajectory of a specific robot arm included in the operation instruction list is generated in accordance with a starting point and an ending point such that the trajectory avoids obstacle spaces registered in the obstacle memory when trajectories of other robot arms are generated (a trajectory generation process). A sweeping space in which a structure of the arm sweeps when the robot arm is operated along the generated trajectory is added to the obstacle memory as an obstacle space to be avoided by the other robot arm (an obstacle registration process).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2019
    Assignee: CANON KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Yasuharu Maeda
  • Patent number: 10192322
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide a medicine photographing apparatus for reducing time and effort of a user operation at the time of measuring shapes of medicines, and a medicine shape measuring apparatus and a medicine dispensing apparatus which include the medicine photographing apparatus. A medicine photographing apparatus 7 includes a medicine holding part 81, a lighting part 82, a photographing part 83, a housing 71 and a pivotally supporting part. The medicine holding part 81, the lighting part 82 and the photographing part 83 are contained in the housing having light shielding property. The medicine holding part 81 is provided between the lighting part 82 and the photographing part 83. Further, the medicine holding part 81 can hold a medicine with a portion having translucency and pivotally move due to the pivotally supporting part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2019
    Assignee: YUYAMA MFG. CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Naoki Koike, Masao Fukada
  • Patent number: 10071480
    Abstract: An interference check system capable of appropriately checking interference between a machine tool and a robot in real time even in the case where real-time properties of data communication are not secured in a system including a machine tool and a robot. The interference check system includes a machine tool controller configured to control a machine tool, a robot controller configured to control a robot, and an interference check execution unit configured to include shape model data or the like of a machine tool mechanical unit and a robot mechanical unit. The interference check execution unit checks presence/absence of interference between the machine tool mechanical unit and the robot mechanical unit based on the shape model data of the machine tool and the robot and time-series data generated by integrating the positions of the control axes of the machine tool and the robot, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2018
    Assignee: FANUC CORPORATION
    Inventors: Hiroji Nishi, Masahiro Oyamada
  • Patent number: 9830521
    Abstract: Provided is a system for identifying a drug container that includes an image capture device configured to capture an optical image of a portion of a label provided to the drug container, and a non-transitory computer storage medium storing a plurality of features for each of a plurality of different drugs included in a database. The features associated with each of the plurality of different drugs are suggestive of an identity of a drug identity but do not, alone, positively identify the drug identity. A processing component is configured to receive data representing the optical image transmitted by the image capture device and to identify a candidate for the drug identity based on the plurality of features associated with the candidate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2017
    Assignee: CODONICS, INC.
    Inventors: Gary Keefe, Lawrence Srnka, Peter Botten
  • Patent number: 9754468
    Abstract: A system, passenger train, method and software product for assisting a passenger to monitor luggage and eventually issue an alarm. The system includes a luggage compartment with an RFID reader in connection with a train server aboard of the train. The train server is provided with information about an RFID tag attached to a piece of luggage of a specific passenger, and the train server is provided with information about the mobile device of this specific passenger. Upon detection of a piece of luggage with a registered RFID tag the train server notifies the mobile device of the passenger associated with the RFID tag and requests the passenger to confirm deposit of the luggage. The RFID reader seizes to protect the RFID tag of the deposited piece of luggage, the train server notifies the mobile device of the passenger associated with the RFID tag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2017
    Assignee: Trolex Aporta Limited
    Inventor: Jesper Bang-Olsen
  • Patent number: 9536369
    Abstract: A pharmacy medication verification system is particularly useful for verifying medications to be dispensed to hospital patients while minimizing or eliminating verification by a pharmacist. Typically, a technician or robot picks the medications from storage bins in accordance with a medical prescription or stocking order and uses various sensors to ensure that the correct medication was picked and enters a medication container. The system typically provides correct and incorrect medication indicators as well as correct and incorrect entry indicators. Error reports may be generated when appropriate to communicate any relevant errors to the pharmacist, who can then verify that the correct medications are in the container. In one aspect, the containers are in the form of patient drawers which fit within a cart for delivery to hospital rooms. A containment device may be used to secure the drawer or other container during the verification process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Assignee: MICRO DATASTAT, LTD.
    Inventor: David J. Wagner
  • Patent number: 9526920
    Abstract: A medical device includes a treatment module configured to apply a treatment to a patient. The medical device includes an interface configured to operatively connect to a removable storage device storing authorization data that identifies a level of treatment authorization. The medical device includes a processing device configured to perform operations in response to receiving user input indicating a treatment should be initiated. The operations include determining whether the removable storage device is valid for use with the medical device. If the removable storage device is determined to be valid, the authorization data is accessed. The processing device determines whether the treatment is authorized based on the accessed authorization data. If the treatment is determined to be authorized, the treatment module is controlled to apply the treatment. If the treatment is determined to not be authorized, the treatment module is controlled such that the treatment is not applied.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2016
    Assignee: SMITH & NEPHEW, INC.
    Inventors: Kevin J. Tanis, Jin Zhang, Debra Ann Arrington, Kelly Ann Umstead
  • Patent number: 9495616
    Abstract: A system for monitoring coffee machines, comprising: a coffee machine (10) having an electronic circuitry (14, 40, 41) configured for collecting and storing usage parameters of the machine; and a display (12) connected to the electronic circuitry and configured for displaying information processed by the electronic circuitry (14, 40, 41) in the form bar codes of QR code type. The system includes a device (50) external to the machine (10) and configured for acquiring through photographs the processed information, in order to decode it and transmit it to a remote server (15). A method of for monitoring coffee machines is also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2016
    Assignee: Rancilio Group S.P.A.
    Inventor: Carlo Carbonini
  • Patent number: 9483794
    Abstract: A method includes: capturing or receiving at least one image of one or more identity documents (IDs) using a mobile device; determining identifying information from one or more of the IDs; building an ID profile based on the identifying information; storing the ID profile to a memory of the mobile device; invoking a workflow configured to facilitate a business transaction; detecting a predetermined stimulus in the workflow, the stimulus relating to the business transaction; providing at least a portion of the ID profile to the workflow in response to detecting the predetermined stimulus; and driving at least a portion of the workflow using the provided portion of the ID profile. Related systems and computer program products are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2016
    Assignee: Kofax, Inc.
    Inventors: Jan W. Amtrup, Steven Kilby, Anthony Macciola
  • Patent number: 9436803
    Abstract: An automatic prescription drug dispenser including a remote dispenser, a prescription entry system, and a communications network. The remote dispenser transmits and receives information from the communications network and dispenses prescription drugs to the patient. The prescription entry system transmits and receives information from the communications network and provides an input system for the prescriber to electronically enter individual prescriptions for each patient. The communications network coordinates communications between the doctor, insurance carrier, and the remote dispenser. The remote dispenser stores, retrieves, and labels prescription drug and over-the-counter products directly to patients through a remote automated dispenser, a prescription entry system, and a communications network.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2016
    Assignee: InstyMeds Corporation
    Inventor: Ken Rosenblum
  • Patent number: 9394071
    Abstract: Provided is a label affixing device to affix linerless labels having different lengths cut and dispensed at the correct position on an article. A label affixing device includes a label issuing unit for cutting and dispensing a linerless label sheet into an individual label, and a label affixer for affixing to an article the linerless label dispensed; the label issuing unit includes a label feeder that feeds the linerless label sheet, a label cutter that cuts the linerless label sheet, and a label cutter controller that controls the operation of the label cutter; and the label affixer includes an affixing unit that moves the linerless label towards an article, and an affixing unit controller that controls the movement of the affixing unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2016
    Assignee: TERAOKA SEIKO CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Kousaku Yamasita, Keiji Ishigami
  • Patent number: 9299213
    Abstract: An automated pill dispensing system includes an output chute configured to hold pill-containing vials and an optical sensor located at a predetermined location in the output chute. The optical sensor includes an optical emitter and an optical detector configured to be operated cooperatively to output a detection signal indicating a presence or absence of a vial at the predetermined location of the output chute. A controller is coupled to the optical sensor and is configured to receive the detection signal therefrom, detect the presence or absence of the vial at the predetermined location of the output chute in response to the detection signal, and control a next depositing event whereby a next vial is deposited in the output chute responsive to the detection. Related methods of operation are also discussed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2016
    Assignee: Parata Systems, LLC
    Inventors: Jeffrey J. Schedel, James Robert Rivenbark, Jr., Mark Alan Uebel, Thomas H. S. Gordon
  • Patent number: 9286593
    Abstract: A system and method for delivering a product such as a pharmacy bottle from a conveyor system to a delivery container via a delivery chute. A control system in communication with the components of the system detects when a product is ready for release into the chute for delivery based on information obtained by a scanner on the conveyor system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2016
    Assignee: HUMANA INC.
    Inventors: Michael Mahar, Atin Kapadia, Toan Trinh
  • Patent number: 9129263
    Abstract: A method for automating interaction with a messaging system receives a first message from the messaging system, associates the first message with a topic, assigns the first message to an identity associated with the topic, maps content to the first message, creates a second message based on the content, and sends, via the identity, the second message to the messaging system. The first message may be screened for quality and assigned a quality score, and if the quality score does not exceed a predetermined threshold, then the second message will not be sent to the messaging system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2015
    Assignee: YAHOO! INC.
    Inventors: Reiner Kraft, Farzin Maghoul
  • Patent number: 9053600
    Abstract: A kiosk for sale or rental of secure USB flash drives employing digital rights management to implement secure digital media storage such as that provided by encrypted storage utilizing content protection for recordable media (CPRM) or the like. Preferably, the form factor of the secure USB flash drives is that of a standard USB flash drive, and a standard USB connector is employed therein making the devices and their use familiar and comfortable to the average consumer. Further, the kiosk may employ an array of USB ports and support writing of content from one drive to another to advantageously adjust inventory to respond to demand. Light, simple kiosks may be designed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2015
    Assignee: NCR Corporation
    Inventors: Phil Day, Andrew Colley, Jim Henderson
  • Publication number: 20150127145
    Abstract: Disclosed in the present invention is a medicine dispensing device comprising: a medicine storage portion for storing a medicine; a medicine discharge portion for discharging the medicine stored at the medicine storage portion; a communication module for communicating with a hospital server; and a control portion for controlling the operation of the medicine storage portion and the medicine discharge portion so as to allow the medicine to be discharged on the basis of prescription information of a prescription received from the hospital server through the communication module.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 17, 2013
    Publication date: May 7, 2015
    Applicant: JVM CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Jun Ho Kim
  • Patent number: 8989895
    Abstract: A computationally implemented system and method that is designed to, but is not limited to: electronically receiving status information regarding a particular ingestible material portion as related to a first engagement of an automated dispensing system with at least one manufacture, the first engagement occurring during a first condition including the at least one manufacture being united with the particular ingestible material portion, the first engagement to facilitate access by the automated dispensing system to the particular ingestible material portion for dispensing of the particular ingestible material portion, the electronically receiving status information to receive status information influenced by whether any disengagements of the automated dispensing system from the at least one manufacture occur during the first condition prior to the first engagement, the at least one manufacture arranged to inhibit access to the particular ingestible material portion prior to any engagements of the automated d
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Assignee: Elwha, LLC
    Inventors: Paul Holman, Royce A. Levien, Mark A. Malamud, Neal Stephenson, Christopher Charles Young
  • Patent number: 8983654
    Abstract: Systems and methods for delivering and packing medicines are described. The systems and methods allows for understanding relations between the medicines and a production-history information piece even if the medicines are having different production-history information pieces while being of the same type. A medicine dispensing apparatus includes a medicine delivery means, a medicine preparation means, a packing means, and a control means capable of controlling operations from delivery of the medicine to packing of the medicine according to prescription data and further specifying a production-history information piece of the medicine delivered from the medicine delivery means. The medicine dispensing apparatus further includes a printing means for printing the production-history information pieces on a packaging sheet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Assignee: Yuyama Mfg. Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Tomohiro Sugimoto
  • Publication number: 20150066205
    Abstract: Example embodiments of the present invention may provide an efficient method of identifying unit doses of medication, and more specifically, to dispensing, identifying, packaging, and labeling unit doses of medication for distribution. In particular, methods may include receiving medication information, causing identifying information related to the medication information to be printed to a web of material, where the identifying information is printed at regular intervals, and preparing a medication unit dose to be dispensed to a container. Methods may further include verifying that the medication unit dose corresponds to the identifying information printed to the web of material, and joining the web of material to the container in response to the dispensed unit dose corresponding to the identifying information.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 29, 2013
    Publication date: March 5, 2015
    Applicant: McKesson Automation Inc.
    Inventor: Patrick J. Braun
  • Publication number: 20150066206
    Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed for a medical pill dispensing system. A method involves accessing a plan. The plan indicates a first pill distribution for a first period of time, and a second pill distribution for a second period of time. The method also involves receiving an input, where the input indicates a change to the plan. The input indicates at least one pill to be distributed in the first period of time. The method also involves determining whether to modify one or more of the first pill distribution or the second pill distribution. The method involves, in response to a determination that the second pill distribution is to be modified, modifying the plan to indicate a change in the second pill distribution.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 15, 2014
    Publication date: March 5, 2015
    Applicant: MEDITAB SOFTWARE INC.
    Inventors: Mikeshkumar Ishwarbhai Patel, Feros Khan Seyed Yousuf Khan, Sergey Shkapov
  • Patent number: 8948912
    Abstract: A service providing system according to an embodiment includes a robot unit, an interface that receives input of order input information, and a control unit that is connected to the robot unit and the interface, and causes the robot unit to execute an operation based on the order input information input with the interface. Furthermore, the service providing system receives input of the order input information with the interface, causes the robot unit to execute the processing operation based on the order input information input with the interface, and provides a product on which the processing operation has been performed by the robot unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2015
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Yaskawa Denki
    Inventors: Zenta Nakamoto, Makoto Umeno, Kenji Matsukuma
  • Publication number: 20150025679
    Abstract: An automatic prescription drug dispenser including a remote dispenser, a prescription entry system, and a communications network. The remote dispenser transmits and receives information from the communications network and dispenses prescription drugs to the patient. The prescription entry system transmits and receives information from the communications network and provides an input system for the prescriber to electronically enter individual prescriptions for each patient. The communications network coordinates communications between the doctor, insurance carrier, and the remote dispenser. The remote dispenser stores, retrieves, and labels prescription drug and over-the-counter products directly to patients through a remote automated dispenser, a prescription entry system, and a communications network.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 27, 2014
    Publication date: January 22, 2015
    Applicant: InstyMeds Corporation
    Inventor: Ken Rosenblum
  • Publication number: 20150019008
    Abstract: A vending machine, in communication with a remote station, delivers a labeled container to a user from storage holding containers of different sizes and shapes and containing different products such as medicaments. A control system is operable to select a specific unlabeled container from among the other containers in storage, and to move the selected unlabeled container to a labeling module where a label is applied after the position of the label and/or the selected unlabeled container are/is adjusted so as to result in the label being applied at a desired position and angular orientation with respect to the selected unlabeled container. The control system is further operable to move the labeled container to a delivery zone accessible to the user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 12, 2014
    Publication date: January 15, 2015
    Applicant: MedAvail, Inc.
    Inventors: Wes van Ooyen, Derek Bessette, Duane Lindner
  • Patent number: 8918432
    Abstract: A system for managing drug labeling information includes a repository comprising a network accessible database, the repository having an upload portion and a download portion, the repository being accessible to a plurality of users via client computers coupled to a wide area network. The repository includes drug labeling information on a plurality of drugs stored therein. The upload portion of the repository is accessible by a first set of users while the download portion of the repository is accessible by a second set of users. In one preferred aspect of the invention, drug manufactures are able to upload new or revised PDF files containing drug labeling information. The new or revised PDF files are then available for download by pharmacists or other authorized users.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2014
    Assignee: Cerner Innovation, Inc.
    Inventors: Magdy A. Eletreby, Mohamed N. Eletreby
  • Patent number: 8914147
    Abstract: A service providing system according to an embodiment includes a robot unit, an interface that receives input of order input information, and a control unit that is connected to the robot unit and the interface, and causes the robot unit to execute an operation based on the order input information input with the interface. Furthermore, the service providing system receives input of the order input information with the interface, causes the robot unit to execute the processing operation based on the order input information input with the interface, and provides a product on which the processing operation has been performed by the robot unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2014
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Yaskawa Denki
    Inventors: Zenta Nakamoto, Makoto Umeno, Kenji Matsukuma
  • Patent number: 8892249
    Abstract: A substance control dispensing system which receives containers of ingestible material for use in dispensing ingestible products individually or in combination with other ingestibles available to the system. A container is sealed at a point of origin and maintains information regarding the origin, integrity of the container since packing, or substance contained by the containers among other types of information. The system is configured to acquire the information from the container upon the container being inserted into the system, and the information may be used to prepare a display of available selections which includes a status related to the information from the container or its insertion into the system, increasing confidence toward the integrity in labeling of ingestible products to be dispensed. Other sorts of ingestible products can include but are not limited to food bars, meal replacements, snacks, full meals, plant and/or animal based products, nutraceuticals, pharmaceuticals, smoothies, etc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Assignee: Elwha LLC
    Inventors: Paul Holman, Royce A. Levien, Mark A. Malamud, Neal Stephenson, Christopher Charles Young
  • Publication number: 20140337211
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for an automated teller machine (“ATM”) currency stamper are provided. The currency stamper may be configured to mark currency retracted by the ATM. The mark may include one or more attributes of the currency. The mark may include transaction information associated with a dispensing and/or retraction of the currency. Marked currency may be stored in the ATM. Marked currency may be scanned. A scanning of marked currency may read the attributes of the currency and the transaction information included in the mark. The scanning of the marked currency may erase the mark. A value of the marked currency may be calculated. The value may be determined based on the currency attributes and transaction information included in the mark applied to the currency.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2013
    Publication date: November 13, 2014
    Applicant: Bank of America Corporation
    Inventors: Kristy M. Crist, Terrelle Carswell, JR., Eric McConnell, Rahul Puri, Devin D. Rhodes, James D. Goodwin
  • Patent number: 8849449
    Abstract: A method, system and apparatus is provided for dispensing drugs quickly, conveniently, securely, and accurately and at relatively less cost than traditional pharmacy-based dispensing systems. A script for a drug prescribed to a user is generated comprising a human readable description of the drug and the user or a machine readable description of the drug and the user. The script is provided to a robotic prescription dispensary operable to recognize either the human readable description or the machine readable description, and validate and dispense the drug accordingly. The robotic prescription dispensary includes a user interface, a tele conferencing or video conferencing means enabling communication between the user and a human validation agent, and a scanning means for capturing an image of the script. A method for managing inventory and distribution of drugs is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Assignee: MedAvail, Inc.
    Inventors: Donald Craig Waugh, James Brandon Parrott, Peter Gaspard Suma, Michael Graves Mansell
  • Patent number: 8838482
    Abstract: A method of making a printed article of clothing of fabric, characterized by the following steps: (a) a computer (4) of a customer (2) is connected for data exchange with a computer (12) of a producer; (b) the customer (2) sets the design of a desired article of clothing via the customer computer (4)/producer computer (12) connection by setting for a plurality of design parameters (e.g. basic design, color, size) a respective selection target from several selection targets possible; (c) based on data from said design setting, several print parts are printed on a printing medium by means of a printer (12), said printing medium being either directly a fabric panel or an intermediate medium the print of which is transferred to fabric later on; (d) fabric pieces (24a; 24b) (e.g.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: Owayo GmbH
    Inventors: Bastian Schindler, Francisco Jose Gennes Sanchez, Paul Marek
  • Patent number: 8798788
    Abstract: An automated method for dispensing pharmaceuticals particularly tablets and capsules, and other small discrete objects, includes: receiving prescription information, selecting a container, labeling the container, dispensing the tablets or capsules into the labeled container, applying a closure to the filled, labeled container, and offloading the container to a designated location. Preferably, the tablets are dispensed with high speed dispensing bins that employ forced air to agitate and singulate the tablets. The other functions within the system are typically carried out at stations designed to offer speed, flexibility and precision to the dispensing operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2014
    Assignee: Parata Systems, LLC
    Inventors: Jeffrey P. Williams, Richard Michelli, Jasper Pollard, Simon Kelly, David Newcomb, Jess Eberdt, Pete Klein
  • Patent number: 8781623
    Abstract: A system for dispensing a bulk product includes an interactive display. The system may be linked to another system which selects a variety of the bulk product and automatically causes the dispenser to dispense the selected variety. The dispensing system may also include a container associated with a remote carrier, so that the bulk product may be dispensed into the container in which the user wishes to store the bulk product long term.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2014
    Assignee: Nike, Inc.
    Inventors: Nicholas A. Leech, Derek A. Fitchett, Jung Gyu Moon
  • Patent number: 8774962
    Abstract: An automated method for dispensing pharmaceuticals particularly tablets and capsules, and other small discrete objects, includes: receiving prescription information, selecting a container, labeling the container, dispensing the tablets or capsules into the labeled container, applying a closure to the filled, labeled container, and offloading the container to a designated location. Preferably, the tablets are dispensed with high speed dispensing bins that employ forced air to agitate and singulate the tablets. The other functions within the system are typically carried out at stations designed to offer speed, flexibility and precision to the dispensing operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2014
    Assignee: Parata Systems, LLC
    Inventors: Jeffrey P. Williams, Richard Michelli, Jasper Pollard, Simon Kelly, David Newcomb, Jess Eberdt, Pete Klein
  • Patent number: 8749356
    Abstract: An automated system and associated method for storing medical items comprises a medication cabinet having at least one refrigerated drawer having a thermo-electric cooling (TEC) device and a non-refrigerated drawer. The refrigerated drawer design is such that cooling gradients throughout the drawer are minimized. Faraday cages are provided about each drawer to support separate RFID readers to monitor the medical items in each drawer. An automatic RFID data detection system determines the temperature requirements of medical items in the refrigerated drawer and controls the TEC device to maintain the required temperature. A temperature logging system for the refrigerated drawer is provided. A separate RFID reader determines if a temperature-controlled item has been placed in a non-refrigerated drawer and if so, an alert is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Assignee: MEPS Real-Time, Inc.
    Inventors: Shariq Hussain, Paul M. Elizondo, Timothy Golde, Jimmy Caputo