Abstract: A system and apparatus are described in which modular receptacles are filled and transported to automated dispensing machines for later retrieval and distribution. A system of the present invention includes the loading, refilling, and replacement of the modular receptacles at various stages in the process of the invention. The present invention results in a more efficient and easier to manage system for distribution of such items as medical supplies and drugs.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
January 7, 2002
Date of Patent:
May 9, 2006
Assignee:
Cardinal Health 301, Inc.
Inventors:
Laird Broadfield, Patricia M. Lee, Paul M. Seelinger, David T. Heffron, Albert W. Dibelka, John J. Rodenrys, Robert J. Feeney, Joseph M. Calabro, William Conrad
Abstract: A two-axis robot includes a vertical tubular post mounted for rotation about its vertical axis, with a vertically slidable shaft extending through the post. An arm on the upper end of the post projects radially outward and has a gripper assembly thereon with operable jaws for gripping a specimen tube. The robot is positioned between two reference locations, for retrieving a specimen tube from one reference location and transferring it to the other. The reference locations are located along a circle circumscribed by a central vertical axis of the gripper jaws as they swing about the rotational axis of the post.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
July 25, 2003
Date of Patent:
January 18, 2005
Assignee:
Cardinal Health 301, Inc.
Inventors:
Thomas L. Bybee, Chris Harvey, Sheri Kime, Dave Murphy, Greg Rothman, Steve Wright