Of Discharge Assistant Operation Patents (Class 221/13)
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Patent number: 11661277Abstract: An automated pharmaceutical dispensing system includes: a tablet dispensing station comprising a plurality of cells for dispensing pills, each of the cells mounted in a dispensing location, each of the cells including a channel for dispensing pills into a container and an inlet configured to be adjustable so that pills in the cell are conveyed through the inlet and into the channel in single file; and an autocalibration station, the autocalibration station comprising a mechanism for automatically adjusting the inlet of a cell based on the dimensions of the pills to be contained in the cell. The autocalibration station is configured and located to also provide a dispensing location, such that a cell docked therein may function to dispense pills.Type: GrantFiled: June 23, 2020Date of Patent: May 30, 2023Assignee: Parata Systems, LLCInventors: Joe Cross, Weldon Curl, Jr., Justin Sayres
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Patent number: 11640855Abstract: A medication dispensing cabinet provides controlled access to medications and supplies stored in it. The cabinet may include at least one lockable storage compartment, and a controller that controls access to the at least one lockable storage compartment. The cabinet may include multiple printers integrated into the cabinet. The cabinet may include a camera operably coupled to the controller. The cabinet may include a set of cabinet electronics, and a power distribution and communications circuit board. The cabinet may include a radio frequency identification (RFID) reader, wherein the controller conditions access to the at least one lockable storage compartment on receipt of information from the RFID reader. Data may be stored in the controller according to an implementation of RAID technology. The controller may include multiple electronic communications network interfaces, and may include an out of band network communication channel. A dispensing cabinet may facilitate printing of labels for medications.Type: GrantFiled: October 8, 2020Date of Patent: May 2, 2023Assignee: Omnicell, Inc.Inventors: Akbar Paydar, Stanley Kim, Chris Richardson, John Foot, Mahmoud Amini, Stuart Morita
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Patent number: 11635397Abstract: The present disclosure enables apparatus and methods for tracking medications and/or product units via smart-packaging concepts. Embodiments include sensors that monitor the state of a blister-card package having an unpatterned lidding film by measuring the impedance of each dispensing region of the lidding film that defines a portion of a blister. In some embodiments, the impedance is measured via a plurality of contact points arranged on opposite sides of each dispensing region, where the contact points are resistively or capacitively coupled with the lidding film. In some embodiments, the impedance map of a measurement region on the blister card is derived via electrical impedance tomography or electrical resistance tomography, where the measurement region includes a plurality of dispensing regions.Type: GrantFiled: September 7, 2021Date of Patent: April 25, 2023Assignee: QuantaEd, LLCInventor: Mehran Mehregany
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Patent number: 11622914Abstract: There is provided an apparatus for dispensing one or more drugs in pellet form. The apparatus includes a cartridge assembly configured to store drugs in pellet form, and dispense the drugs upon actuation of one or more dispensing mechanisms located within the cartridge assembly. The apparatus further includes a control unit configured to actuate the one or more dispensing mechanisms located within the cartridge assembly, as well as a cover including a collection region configured to receive and store drugs dispensed from the one or more dispensing mechanisms. The cover is movable between a first position in which the collection region of the cover forms an enclosed cavity, and a second position in which the collection region is exposed such that a user can access drugs contained therein.Type: GrantFiled: November 1, 2019Date of Patent: April 11, 2023Assignee: OnDosis ABInventors: John Hayman, Anders Jimgren, Magnus Karemyr, Simon Pettersson
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Patent number: 11620868Abstract: Systems and methods of the present disclosure relate to dispensing and jammed item release techniques. A dispensing system comprises an arrangement of passages; a first device operable to move in a lateral direction along the arrangement of passages; a second device operable to move in a vertical direction along the arrangement of passages; a third device operable to extend or retract into a passage; and a cover operable to move toward and away from the arrangement of passages.Type: GrantFiled: July 22, 2021Date of Patent: April 4, 2023Assignee: Trinity Axis Inc.Inventors: David D. Davidar, Jeremiah Divyan David
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Patent number: 11565891Abstract: A separating device for a gravity conveyor, comprising a conveying plane (E) along which an item (30) is conveyable in a conveying direction (F), and an actuating means (50), which comprises a first actuating member (51), which can be moved into an actuated position by conveyed items (30) being moved in the conveying direction (F), and a second actuating member (52), which can be moved into an actuated position by conveyed items (30) being moved counter to the conveying direction (F). When at least one of the first and second actuating members (50, 51) is actuated, a movement of the at least one separating stop (40) from the position above the conveying plane is blocked, and when the first and second actuating members (50, 51) are unactuated, a movement of the at least one separating stop (40) to a position below or flush with the conveying plane is enabled.Type: GrantFiled: August 21, 2019Date of Patent: January 31, 2023Inventor: Thomas Klein
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Patent number: 11406567Abstract: A medicine cassette 100 includes a side-wall constituent body 110, a first rotating body 120, a second rotating body 130 and a medicine discharging part 144c. The medicine cassette 100 can scrape up medicines prepared in a medicine containing part 182 along with a rotation of the first rotating body 120 to transfer and place the medicines onto the second rotating body 130 and transfer the medicines toward a downstream side of a rotational direction of the second rotating body 130 to discharge the medicines from the medicine discharging part 144c. An expanding portion 110a expanding toward an outer side of a radial direction of the second rotating body 130 is provided in the side-wall constituent body 110 on a lower side of the second rotating body 130.Type: GrantFiled: December 14, 2020Date of Patent: August 9, 2022Assignee: YUYAMA MFG. CO., LTD.Inventors: Naoki Koike, Takanori Yorozu, Shoichiro Okada, Kenichi Takada
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Patent number: 11348397Abstract: Provided is a vending machine. The vending machine includes a control device, a cabinet, an item column, and a hopper. The hopper is located between the item column and a pickup port of the cabinet. The hopper includes a receiving bin provided with an opening. The vending machine further includes a detection device. The control device is configured to control the receiving bin to receive the item from the item column at a receiving position based on a purchase instruction from a user, and control the receiving bin to rotate from the receiving position to a first position located between the receiving position and the dispensing position based on the detection result that the item exists at the inlet of the hopper.Type: GrantFiled: August 9, 2019Date of Patent: May 31, 2022Inventors: Chong Zhou, Xinping Wang, Tengfei Zhang, Qiangzi Cong, Tianxin Jiang, Chuntao Wang
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Patent number: 11207243Abstract: Systems, methods, and modules providing integrated medication management utilizing a medication management module. The module comprises cartridge slots, a pill extractor, a pill dispenser, and processors. The method includes receiving patient data of a patient, storing the patient data, and determining a presence of pill cartridges and pills. The module scans a cartridge label corresponding to the patient and the pills and authenticates the cartridges based on the patient data and the pills. The system determines, in response to authenticating, a medication regimen based on the patient data and pills and extracts pills from the pill cartridges. The module ensures verifying a correct extraction of pills and dispensing the pills at a predetermined time in a predetermined amount based on the medication plan. The module verifies a correct dispensing of pills at the predetermined time in the predetermined amount.Type: GrantFiled: November 9, 2018Date of Patent: December 28, 2021Inventor: Bin Wai Lam
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Patent number: 11142410Abstract: A gripper apparatus including a gripper frame and a gripper beak; an actuation mechanism for actuating the gripper beak; a clamping force generator biased to exert a clamping force on the gripper beak; a transmission mechanism including an input member that is vertically displaceable with respect to the gripper frame, wherein the transmission mechanism engages the actuation mechanism such that a high position of the input member corresponds to a closed position of the gripper beak while a downward displacement of the input member corresponds to a transition of the gripper beak to an open position; a vertically displaceable carrier coupling device that in a lower rest position presses down on the input member; and a latch mechanism, preferably of alternate push-push type, for holding the gripper beak in its open position.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 2017Date of Patent: October 12, 2021Assignee: CSI INDUSTRIES B.V.Inventor: Hendrik Leusink
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Patent number: 11066240Abstract: An automated pharmacy system includes a storage rack; bins to be stored within the storage rack and to store one or more medication packages, each of the bins having a separate bar code; a kiosk having an interface manually manipulated by a user to receive identifying information of the user; a central computer in data communication with the kiosk; a locker unit having lockers, the lockers having an identification reader to unlock the lockers based on receiving correct identifying information and lockers having a bar code; a robotic arm manipulated by the central computer; a rail positioned on a ground surface; and a bar code reader secured to the robotic arm.Type: GrantFiled: November 20, 2017Date of Patent: July 20, 2021Inventor: Rodney H Maxwell
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Patent number: 10902948Abstract: In a medication dispensing system, pills of different medications are stored in different chambers of a pill bottle. An assembly of a non-moving disc having holes corresponding to each chamber, a rotatable disc having a hole for dispensing pills therethrough, and a motor, dispenses the pills according to a prescribed schedule. The motor controls the rotations of the rotatable disc according to a user-specified schedule.Type: GrantFiled: December 9, 2019Date of Patent: January 26, 2021Inventors: Himanshu Minocha, Rohan Minocha
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Patent number: 10894003Abstract: A medicine cassette 100 includes a side-wall constituent body 110, a first rotating body 120, a second rotating body 130 and a medicine discharging part 144c. The medicine cassette 100 can scrape up medicines prepared in a medicine containing part 182 along with a rotation of the first rotating body 120 to transfer and place the medicines onto the second rotating body 130 and transfer the medicines toward a downstream side of a rotational direction of the second rotating body 130 to discharge the medicines from the medicine discharging part 144c. An expanding portion 110a expanding toward an outer side of a radial direction of the second rotating body 130 is provided in the side-wall constituent body 110 on a lower side of the second rotating body 130.Type: GrantFiled: August 26, 2019Date of Patent: January 19, 2021Assignee: YUYAMA MFG. CO., LTD.Inventors: Naoki Koike, Takanori Yorozu, Shoichiro Okada, Kenichi Takada
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Patent number: 10867463Abstract: A vending machine with a curved exterior shape is disclosed. Some embodiments of the vending machine are circular in design, and include a transparent upper housing that allows customers to see into the interior of the vending machine. Products for vending may be stored in a non-transparent lower housing. A centrally-located product delivery system transports products for vending from the lower housing to delivery portals located on the upper housing. The product delivery system is able to move along a vertical line and rotate through the horizontal plane and can deliver products from any portion of the lower housing to any delivery portals located on the upper housing.Type: GrantFiled: September 18, 2018Date of Patent: December 15, 2020Assignee: PepsiCo, Inc.Inventors: Emad Jafa, Xuejun Li, Yong Serock, Cheuk Chi Lau, Martyn Mitchell, Euan Morrison, Wai Chan, Sam Johnstone, Erik Williams
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Patent number: 10580264Abstract: Computer implemented systems and methods are provided for an automatic teller machine. In some embodiments, an automatic teller machine may comprise a display, a physical barrier configured to intersect a line of sight from a location adjacent the automatic teller machine to the display, one or more memory devices storing instructions, and one or more processors. The one or more processors may be configured to determine that a user is operating the automatic teller machine. The one or more processors may be further configured to alter a degree of opacity of the physical barrier, based on the determining.Type: GrantFiled: August 8, 2018Date of Patent: March 3, 2020Assignee: Capital One Services, LLCInventors: Robert Smith, David Wurmfeld, Steve Faletti, Lisa Whitsitt, Janak Dadhaniya
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Patent number: 10521765Abstract: A system monitors the distribution of a disinfectant having an expiration. The system has distribution containers and use containers, each having a volume for dispensing the disinfectant. A reader of the system can read identifiers associated with the containers, and a database of the system can associate the volumes and the expiration of the disinfectant contained in each of the containers. During monitoring, processing equipment of the system tracks each of the volumes of the disinfectant, the expiration of the disinfectant, and the identifiers of the containers. For example, the processing equipment can log the dispensing of the disinfectant from the distribution container to the use containers and can log any amount of the dispensed disinfectant in the use containers that was noted used. Additionally, the processing equipment can determine that the distribution container or any of the user containers have disinfectant past the expiration.Type: GrantFiled: June 9, 2017Date of Patent: December 31, 2019Assignee: PCT LTDInventor: Marion E. Paris
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Patent number: 10453292Abstract: An apparatus for dispensing ophthalmic lens packages comprises a first spool and a second spool rotatably mounted to a least one support, and a flexible sheet, having a hole, that coils or uncoils around the spools in response to their rotation. A cartridge with a hole and a means for releasably holding a package is attached to the flexible sheet, and the hole of the flexible sheet and the hole of the cartridge are aligned to permit an object to pass therethrough. A pushing means, between said first spool and said second spool, extends a pushing member through the hole of the flexible sheet and the hole of the cartridge. A scanning means moves in response to an electrical or mechanical signal between said first spool and said second spool.Type: GrantFiled: October 18, 2018Date of Patent: October 22, 2019Assignee: Johnson & Johnson Vision Care, Inc.Inventors: Edward R Kernick, Hamid A Darabi, Daniel T Wang
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Patent number: 10435236Abstract: Waste chute devices and methods for using the same are provided. In some embodiments, a method for operating waste chutes comprises: receiving, using a hardware processor of a waste chute device, an identity associated with a user of the waste chute device; in response to receiving the identity associated with the user, allowing, using the hardware processor, a door of the waste chute device to be opened; determining, using the hardware processor, a number of items and at least one type associated with the items that have been placed in an opening of the waste chute device; determining, using the hardware processor, that the door of the waste chute device has been closed; updating, using the hardware processor, information associated with the user based on the number of items and the at least one type of items that have been placed in the opening of the waste chute device; and providing, using the hardware processor, the user with the updated information.Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 2018Date of Patent: October 8, 2019Assignee: Sidewalk Labs LLCInventors: Rohit Thomas Aggarwala, Anand Naga Babu, Jesse Shapins, Matthew Eli Breuer, Violet Whitney, Daniel Henry Vanderkam, Michael Constantine Mattheakis, Thomas Joseph Kennedy, Amanda Meurer
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Patent number: 10373311Abstract: Inspection of a shape-fixed medicine is performed before packing. A medicine inspection assistance device includes: a medicine support part for rotatably supporting a shape-fixed medicine by a first rotating roller and a second rotating roller, and a medicine imaging part having an imaging means for imaging the shape-fixed medicine supported by the medicine support part from above. The medicine support part is configured such that a contact position between the first rotating roller and the shape-fixed medicine is located above the second rotating roller and the contact position is closer to an axis of the first rotating roller than a gravity center position of the shape-fixed medicine.Type: GrantFiled: August 10, 2015Date of Patent: August 6, 2019Assignee: YUYAMA MFG. CO., LTD.Inventors: Shoji Yuyama, Naoki Koike, Masao Fukada, Akira Maeda
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Patent number: 10315231Abstract: A method of placing inventory can include accessing a data store to retrieve item attribute data of an inventory item to be placed, comparing the item attribute data of the inventory item to attribute data corresponding to each respective inventory item in a collection of potential destination containers, and selecting a particular destination container for storage based on that comparison in order to maximize the relative distinctiveness of items stored together. The storage method results in pseudo-random storage of inventory in containers where each item is more readily identifiable from each other item in the same container, particularly by automated means, and can be used in conjunction with an automated or partially automated inventory storage and retrieval system.Type: GrantFiled: September 7, 2017Date of Patent: June 11, 2019Assignee: Amazon Technologies, Inc.Inventor: Jeremiah David Brazeau
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Patent number: 10210501Abstract: There is provided systems and method for an electronic payment to a non-Internet connected device. The methods include transmitting information corresponding to at least one item for sale at a non-Internet connected machine, receiving a purchase request from a user device for the at least one item from the non-Internet connected machine, and communicating, using a hardware processor of a payment provider server, an approval of the purchase request to the user device, wherein the user device is configured to transmit a purchase authorization to the non-Internet connected machine using a wireless connection.Type: GrantFiled: July 25, 2013Date of Patent: February 19, 2019Assignee: PAYPAL, INC.Inventors: Gak Wee Low, Michele Lee, Mark Wenger, Xin Sun
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Patent number: 10176663Abstract: The present specification describes a system for automatically preparing medication cartridges for use in a pharmaceutical dispensing system. The system includes a spooler device that winds a strip of medicine pouches around a cylinder in a cartridge frame. When the cartridge has been loaded with the medication strip, the system validates that there is a match between the information on the cartridge cover and the mediation pouches.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2017Date of Patent: January 8, 2019Assignee: spencer Health Solutions, LLCInventors: Michael L. King, Michael J. Kiplinger, John Michael Burton, Jr., Jeffrey J. Schedel, Sasha Morris, Jacob White, Jeremy Scott Bridges
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Patent number: 10109145Abstract: An apparatus for dispensing ophthalmic lens packages having a pushing means and methods of its use are described herein.Type: GrantFiled: December 16, 2009Date of Patent: October 23, 2018Assignee: Johnson & Johnson Vision Care, Inc.Inventors: Edward R. Kernick, Hamid A. Darabi, Daniel T. Wang
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Patent number: 10071848Abstract: A lottery ticket dispenser array includes a plurality of separate bins, with each bin defined by a housing having a defined first internal space for receipt of a supply of interconnected lottery tickets. Each bin has an electronic ticket drive mechanism and a scanner disposed to read a sequential number code as the lottery tickets are dispensed from the bin. A control system is in communication with each scanner. Each bin includes a first electronic display at a front side thereof. The control system is configured for receipt of a scan signal from the scanner and, at the end of a ticket dispense cycle, to determine the lottery ticket number of a next lottery ticket to be dispensed from the bin and to transmit the next lottery number to the first electronic display.Type: GrantFiled: December 29, 2016Date of Patent: September 11, 2018Assignee: Scientific Games International, Inc.Inventors: Ajay J. Ghia, Kent Christensen, Sten Hallundbaek Mejenborg
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Patent number: 10055798Abstract: A recycling kiosk for recycling and financial remuneration for submission of an electronic device such as a mobile phone is disclosed herein. The recycling kiosk includes electrical connectors and an inspection area with an upper chamber, a lower chamber, a transparent plate and at least one camera in order to perform a visual analysis and an electrical analysis of the electronic device for determination of a value of the electronic device. The recycling kiosk also includes a processor and a display for user interaction.Type: GrantFiled: April 4, 2012Date of Patent: August 21, 2018Assignee: ecoATM, LLCInventors: Mark Vincent Bowles, Thomas L. Tullie, John Andrew Beane, Jeff Ploetner, John Miller, Neil Vesco
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Patent number: 10049188Abstract: Systems and methods for dispensing prescription medication from a medication-dispensing machine. In an embodiment, an identification of medication and patient information for an electronic prescription is received. A container of the identified medication is retrieved from a plurality of containers stocked within the machine. Each container comprises a first barcode. The first barcode is scanned, and a patient label is generated and applied to the retrieved container. An image of the retrieved container is captured and provided to a pharmacist over a network. After an approval is received over the network from the pharmacist, the retrieved container is released to a user.Type: GrantFiled: May 9, 2017Date of Patent: August 14, 2018Assignee: MediFriend, Inc.Inventors: Pat P. Iantorno, Stefan Kanetis
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Patent number: 9892232Abstract: An automated method is provided for recording contents of medication packages vended from a plurality of vending machines in electronic records, such as an electronic medication administration record (eMAR), that store records for a plurality of patients who are associated with respective vending machines. A vending event causes the electronic record to be populated. The contents of the medication packages vended from the vending machines are recorded in electronic records without communicating patient names or vended medications in the electronic message sent from the vending machines.Type: GrantFiled: October 21, 2016Date of Patent: February 13, 2018Assignee: Medherent, LLCInventors: Joel F. Feldman, Yeardley W. Green, Stanley I. H. Feldman, Jeffrey C. Sweeter
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Patent number: 9843582Abstract: Systems and methods for authenticating the identity of a user prior to giving access to confidential data at a user interface via a network are described. In an exemplary implementation in an Internet environment, a server hosts an application providing selective access by the user to confidential data related to the user. The user provides initial data to the application as part of a request to access the confidential data. At least one database having the confidential data stored therein is accessed by the server to retrieve confidential data relating to the user located in the database based on the initial data received from the client interface. An exam creation function causes the server to create an exam comprising at least one question based at least in part on a portion of the confidential data relating to the user. This function creates the exam based on at least one exam definition.Type: GrantFiled: April 7, 2014Date of Patent: December 12, 2017Assignee: Trans Union LLCInventors: Alka Mahendrakar, Kehang Chen, Luis Obregon
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Patent number: 9539179Abstract: A kiosk according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a housing; a touch screen configured to receive input information from a user; a label printer configured to print output information from the kiosk; a pill drop opening; a pill chute; a drive tube having entry and exit openings, wherein the drive tube has an axis extending through a longitudinal axial centerline thereof, and has an inside surface comprising a helical flute, wherein the entry opening is in communication with the pill chute, and wherein the exit opening is higher than the entry opening such that the axial centerline of the drive tube is inclined; a motor configured to rotate the drive tube to separate and convey pills received through the pill drop opening and the pill chute; and an optical counter configured to count the pills as the pills fall from the exit opening of the drive tube.Type: GrantFiled: July 21, 2015Date of Patent: January 10, 2017Assignee: QUALANEX, LLCInventors: Derek Cano, Donald W. Stark, Alan Lewis Dubois
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Patent number: 9468218Abstract: An apparatus for handling food products comprises an alignment trough disposed at an incline for holding a stack of the food products at an incline. The alignment trough defines a portion of a passage upon which the food products travel. The stack defines a bottom food product. At least one movable member extends into the passage to control the separation of the bottom food product from the remainder of the stack by moving to provide clearance fro the food product to pass.Type: GrantFiled: October 17, 2014Date of Patent: October 18, 2016Assignee: Kraft Foods Group Brands LLCInventors: Mark E. Malenke, Gary S. Rusch, Tod W. Heleniak, Brian Adamski, Larry D. Wierschke, Scott A. Adler
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Patent number: 9405992Abstract: There is provided a method for identifying and sorting randomly distributed waste containers (1) containing different types of refuse sorted at source, wherein the identification is based on an image analysis of a pattern (2) arranged on each container (1). The method for identifying and sorting comprises the following steps: capturing at least one image of each container (1), analyzing the image by determining following characteristics: a shade and/or color of the pattern; a type of the pattern arranged on the container; calculating a sorting value based on the determined characteristics; comparing the calculated sorting value to a predetermined limit value or predetermined range of sorting values in order to classify the type of refuse contained in the container for sorting thereof.Type: GrantFiled: March 30, 2012Date of Patent: August 2, 2016Assignee: Envac Optibag ABInventors: Sven Bådholm, Christian Toräng, Stefan Holmertz
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Patent number: 9398739Abstract: A planter is described which utilizes individual seed meter motor drives at each row unit. motor controllers control each seed meter drive motor. Each individual row seed meter can be individually started, stopped and operated at a unique rate. Prior to planting, the meters can be operated to fill the meters and ensure that the meters are primed and ready to start dropping seed as soon as the planter begins operation to plant seed. When a seed delivery system is used with each meter to move seed from the meter to the soil, the delivery system is also primed with seed before operation of the planter.Type: GrantFiled: October 3, 2014Date of Patent: July 26, 2016Assignee: DEERE & COMPANYInventors: Carl Silbernagel, David J. Rylander, James R. Peterson, Michael E. Frasier
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Patent number: 9361431Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide systems and methods to provide safe, secure and accurate point-to-point delivery of prescription and non-prescription drugs in the long-term home care or ambulatory care environment. More specifically, embodiments of the present invention provide for a low-cost, easy-to-use system comprised of a secure drug dispensing unit and medication enclosure combined with wireless connectivity and software based on smart mobile phone technology. Such systems and methods, referred to herein as a Secure, Control, and Enhance Medication Adherence (SCEMA) system, can mitigate the aforementioned risks associated with the use of prescription and non-prescription drugs. These risks can be significantly reduced for the elderly in the homecare environment, as well as the general public, without disrupting, or a significantly increasing the cost, to the existing prescription and non-prescription drug distribution infrastructure.Type: GrantFiled: April 1, 2013Date of Patent: June 7, 2016Assignee: GEN-9, INC.Inventor: Mark A. Fauci
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Patent number: 9237687Abstract: Systems, methods and apparatus are disclosed for selecting an agricultural input. First and second seed meters selectively meter seed from first and second sources, respectively, into a common planting trench. In some embodiments the seed meters are selectively operated by electric motors controlled with reference to a seed type prescription. In some embodiments the first and second seed meters deposit seeds along a common plane.Type: GrantFiled: May 12, 2015Date of Patent: January 19, 2016Assignee: Precision Planting LLCInventors: Derek Sauder, Dale Koch, Troy Plattner
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Patent number: 9122972Abstract: A card storage device for storing payment cards, such as credit and debit cards or other media in an orderly fashion. The device may be used at a food and/or drink establishment. The device securely stores a number of cards for a number of patrons who wish to open a tab at a bar, pub, restaurant, or other service environment.Type: GrantFiled: February 18, 2011Date of Patent: September 1, 2015Assignee: J.D. CONN, INC.Inventors: Joseph D. Conn, Atha Jamar Neal, III
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Patent number: 9105142Abstract: The present invention provides a random access and random load dispensing unit including a housing, at least one support located in the housing and defining a first axis, a plurality of platforms movable along the support along the first axis, a plurality of bins supported on the platforms, the bins being movable with the platforms, and a shuttle assembly movable along the first axis and further movable along a second axis substantially perpendicular to the first axis between the plurality of platforms to access and retrieve products stored in the bins.Type: GrantFiled: November 19, 2010Date of Patent: August 11, 2015Assignee: Asteres, Inc.Inventors: Linda J. Pinney, John A. Beane, Angus R. Colson, David R. Williams, Keith Kopitzke, Keith W. Reynolds, Erik Howard Barnes
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Publication number: 20150129603Abstract: This drug-supplying device is provided with: a rotator that discharges drugs towards the outer diameter by being rotated; a drug shape-specifying unit for specifying the shape of the drug; and a control unit that rotates the rotator at a rotational speed specified, on the basis of a speed table that correlates drug shape to rotator rotational speed, by the shape that has been specified by a drug-detecting unit.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 14, 2013Publication date: May 14, 2015Inventors: Naoki Koike, Mitsuhiro Mitani, Masao Fukada
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Publication number: 20150096998Abstract: A merchandise dispensing apparatus for deterring theft has at least one merchandise support module which includes a covering defining an interior space within the module. A support member and a dispensing member are mounted to the module, the dispensing member being mounted adjacent to the support member. A lockout device is also mounted to each module and connected to the dispensing member. The lockout device includes a housing with a user input member accessible from outside the housing. The user input member communicates with the dispensing member. A controller, which includes a memory and a processor, electrically communicates with the user input member. A sensor electrically communicates with the controller and senses the dispensing of an associated packaged item mounted on the support member. A signaling device electrically communicates with the controller to provide a notification upon the dispensing of the associated packaged item.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 7, 2014Publication date: April 9, 2015Applicant: FASTENERS FOR RETAIL, INC.Inventors: Gregory M. Bird, Shane Obitts, Gerald Matthew Szpak
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Patent number: 8960495Abstract: A straw dispenser that hold two individual straws, sequentially selected from an inventory of straws. The upper straw is staged in a position to fall, and the lower straw is in a position made available to a person. The person grasps the available straw and pulls the same, which moves a lower movable part of the dispenser. The forward movement of the lower movable part allows the upper staged straw to fall downwardly to a transitory position, and during backward movement of the lower movable part the straw moves from the transitory position and is made available. At the same time a successive straw is selected from the inventory and held in the staged position. The person need not touch any other part of the dispenser or touch other straws to be dispensed. A subsequent straw cannot be dispensed until the available straw has been removed from the dispenser.Type: GrantFiled: May 25, 2012Date of Patent: February 24, 2015Inventor: Antonio Domit
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Publication number: 20150039124Abstract: An automatic medication dispensing device for dispensing medication to a patient including a medication dispensing unit having at least one tablet dispensing cartridge for receiving and retaining a plurality of tablets. The cartridge is electronically controlled by a computer system configured to receive a signal and activate the cartridge to dispense a tablet. The cartridge has a tablet receiving space for receiving and retaining a plurality of tablets in a vertical stack and a tablet dispensing opening to allow for at least one tablet to be dispensed from the cartridge. A moveable ram is associated with the cartridge to engage a single tablet in the vertical stack and expel the single tablet from the cartridge.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 30, 2013Publication date: February 5, 2015Inventors: Ronald Justin Mistovich, Patrick Daniel Kichinosuke Miller
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Publication number: 20150028048Abstract: An automatic pill grasping apparatus includes an enclosure, a control chip, a pill grasping mechanism, and a pill storage mechanism. The enclosure includes a base. The pill grasping mechanism includes a grasping arm, a nozzle, and a driving mechanism. The nozzle being is engaged with the grasping arm, and the driving mechanism is attached to the base. The pill storage mechanism includes a plurality of pill storage cases for storing pills and an actuating mechanism attached to the base. The control chip is configured to control the actuating mechanism to rotate the plurality of pill storage cases in a first plane substantially parallel to the base and control the driving mechanism to rotate the grasping arm in a second plane perpendicular to the first plane, for rotating the nozzle to stretch into the one of the plurality of pill storage cases to pick a pill.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 29, 2014Publication date: January 29, 2015Applicant: HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.Inventors: SZU-HAI HUANG, KUO-MING LAI, PEI-YI CHAN, JENG-CHE CHEN, TUI-CHIEN WU, PAO-HENG SHEN, CHAO-WEN SHIH, KING-LUNG HUANG, LAP-SHUN HUI
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Publication number: 20150021348Abstract: A vending machine comprises a robotic arm and a pick mechanism that is coupled to the robotic arm. The pick mechanism is configured to retrieve a vendible product in the vending machine, and the robotic arm is configured to locate the pick mechanism at a location with a x-y coordinate that corresponds to the vendible product. The pick mechanism comprises a first roller, a second roller, and a belt that mechanically links the first and second rollers by forming a loop around the first and second rollers. The belt has a first portion and a second portion on opposing sides of the loop, and the second portion of the belt is coupled to the robotic arm. The pick mechanism further comprises a motor that is configured to rotate the first roller in order to translate the first and second portions of the belt in opposite directions to each other. The pick mechanism further comprises a picker arm extending in the z direction.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 17, 2014Publication date: January 22, 2015Inventor: Philip Stinson
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Publication number: 20140353327Abstract: An atypical pill dispensing apparatus. The atypical pill dispensing apparatus may include a pill depository, a pill transporter, and a controller. The pill depository accommodates atypical pills. The pill transporter includes: a housing including an inlet opening formed on one side to be provided with the atypical pills from the pill depository, and a discharging opening formed on the other side to discharge the atypical pills; a screw with one end disposed corresponding to the inlet opening and the other end disposed corresponding to the discharging opening so as to transport the atypical pills along a spiral when rotating; and a screw driver to rotate the screw. The controller enables the pill transporter to control the transportation of the atypical pills.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 30, 2014Publication date: December 4, 2014Applicant: INFOPIA CO., LTD.Inventors: Byeong-Woo Bae, Keun-Young Kim
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Publication number: 20140246451Abstract: A medicine feeding apparatus includes a cylindrical body 8, a first rotating body 9, and a second rotating body 10. The first rotating body 9 is disposed on the inner side of the cylindrical body 8, and together with the cylindrical body 8, constitutes a medicine storage section 42 capable of storing medicine. The first rotating body 9 can reciprocate in the axial direction of the cylindrical body 8, and can rotate about a first rotary axis. The second rotating body 10 is disposed on the outer circumference of an opening of the cylindrical body 8, and can rotate about a second rotary axis. This configuration has a function of smoothly performing automatic dispensing depending on the remaining amount of stored medicine while storing a large amount of medicine.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 4, 2012Publication date: September 4, 2014Applicant: YUYAMA MFG CO., LTD.Inventors: Hiroyuki Yuyama, Naoki Koike, Mitsuhiro Mitani, Masao Fukada
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Patent number: 8805575Abstract: A method for delivering fasteners to a remote installation tool is provided. The method includes delivering a first fastener of a first type to a remote installation tool in response to receiving a request for a fastener of the first type from an operator and staging a second fastener of the first type for delivery to the remote installation tool. The staging begins prior to receiving a request for another fastener of the first type from the operator. The staging includes retrieving the second fastener of the first type from a storage location and transferring the second fastener of the first type from the storage location to a staging location.Type: GrantFiled: July 11, 2011Date of Patent: August 12, 2014Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventors: Daniel David Bloch, Robert E. Bender
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Publication number: 20140197191Abstract: There is provided a vending machine that prevents a commodity receptacle from being damaged and a commodity from slipping out thereof by a shock due to falling even if a commodity receptacle undergoes free fall without requiring a complicated structure for preventing the commodity receptacle from undergoing free fall. When it is detected that the fall velocity of a bucket 60 falling due to disconnection of power supply to a second motor 72a of a bucket moving mechanism 70 is equal to or greater than a predetermined speed, a braking force for decelerating the fall velocity of the bucket 60 is intermittently generated and thereby the bucket 60 can be lowered to the lowest point at a speed slower than free fall. This configuration prevents the bucket 60 from being damaged and a commodity from slipping out thereof by a shock due to falling and does not require a complicated structure for preventing the bucket 60 from undergoing free fall.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 29, 2012Publication date: July 17, 2014Applicant: SANDEN CORPORATIONInventor: Masaru Ohkubo
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Publication number: 20140150376Abstract: A method and apparatus is provided for handling loose objects having different physical characteristics, such as pharmaceutical drugs including, without limitation, oral solids in the form of pills, tablets, capsules and the like. Loose objects are loaded into individual canisters. A tooling assembly, comprising at least one canister drive mechanism, imaging sensor and package handler is mounted to a gantry assembly, can be translated through the cabinet via the gantry assembly to engage with particular canisters in accordance with unique and dynamic control parameters. Objects are dispensed from a canister directly to the desired packaging, such as a vial or “blister pack.” Additionally, a beneficially stronger blister pack container is provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 27, 2013Publication date: June 5, 2014Inventor: Monroe T. Milton
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Publication number: 20140151391Abstract: Disclosed are an apparatus for managing shelf control information for a multi-vending machine and a method thereof. The apparatus includes a shelf recognizing unit for recognizing whether a shelf is mounted; a column detecting unit for detecting whether a column mounted on the shelf exists; a column kind detecting unit for detecting a kind of columns; and a control unit for generating product control information based on information about the shelf, the column and the kind of columns detected by the shelf recognizing unit, the column detecting unit and the column kind detecting unit and storing the product control information in a memory.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 25, 2013Publication date: June 5, 2014Applicant: LOTTE ALUMINIUM CO., LTD.Inventor: Sung Chul JO
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Publication number: 20140138398Abstract: A dispensing apparatus for dispensing articles includes a housing and a drive system. The housing defines a hopper chamber to hold the articles, a dispensing outlet, and a dispensing path between the hopper chamber and the dispensing outlet. The drive system includes a belt and a belt actuator operable to drive the belt. The dispensing apparatus is configured such that articles disposed in the hopper chamber are directed onto the belt and the belt, when driven by the belt actuator, conveys the articles received from the hopper chamber in a dispensing direction along the dispensing path toward the dispensing outlet to be dispensed.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 14, 2013Publication date: May 22, 2014Applicant: Parata Systems, LLCInventors: Matthew P. Daniels, Steve Bouchelle, Mark I. Perisich
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Publication number: 20140097194Abstract: An automatic pill dispenser includes a chassis, a top cover located on the chassis, a fetch box, a pill box, and a pill fetching device. The pill fetching device includes a rotation arm and a picker. The rotation arm can move into the pill box to fetch a pill and move the picker from the pill box to the fetching box.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 26, 2013Publication date: April 10, 2014Inventor: KUO-MING LAI