Abstract: An automated food dispensing and billing system has an array of food enclosures, each for dispensing food to a customer. In response to the detection of a signal from a customer authorization device, the enclosure may be accessed to retrieve the food item therein. A billing subsystem automatically charges an account associated with the customer authorization device.

Abstract: A monitor and method for reasonable confirmation of a vend from a vending machine includes a set of optical emitters positionable on one side of a dispensing area and a set of optical detectors, adapted to sense the optical energy of the emitters, positioned on an opposite side of the dispensing area. The emitters are spaced apart from each other and mounted on a supporting structure that can be installed on the one side of the dispensing area in a vending machine. The detectors similarly are spaced from one another on a supporting structure that can be installed on an opposite side of the dispensing area. A controller operates the emitters to individually turn on and off in a predetermined sequence. The controller checks for falsing of any detector during the off periods and monitors if any detector is blocked during the on periods. Upon sensed falsing or blockage, the controller generates an output signal.

Abstract: A product supply management system provides the capability to regulate the delivery of a product into a containment device. The containment device may be part of a product dispenser, such that the product dispenser regulates the delivery of product from a product generator. In a first embodiment, the product level determiners are disposed at varying levels of the containment device, and are in electrical communication with a controller, such that the product level determiners provide information to the controller. This invention further includes a product height profile having multiple time intervals, and a required product level for each time interval. Accordingly, the product supply management system may compare product levels to the product height profile, and determine whether additional product is required. The product height profile may include relative timing device, data set or real-time timing device to control the timing portion of the invention. Alternative embodiments are further provided.

Abstract: A pharmaceutical dispensing system comprises: a frame having first and second opposed sides; a plurality of bins configured to house pharmaceutical tablets, each of the bins being accessible from the first side of the frame for replenishment of pharmaceutical tablets; a plurality of chutes, each of the chutes connected to and associated with a respective one of the plurality of bins, each of the chutes being accessible from the second side of the frame for dispensing of pharmaceutical tablets; a first graphics user interface mounted on the first side of the frame for controlling the replenishment of the plurality of bins; and a second graphics user interface mounted on the second side of the frame for controlling the dispensing of pharmaceutical tablets from the chutes. In this configuration, the system can dispense and be replenished very efficiently.

Abstract: An apparatus is used to dispense radiopharmaceuticals from an open vial into capsules. The apparatus is particularly well suited for volatile radiopharmaceuticals such as I-131 radioiodine. The method used with this apparatus enables the operator's hands to remain at a distance from the radiopharmaceutical to reduce extremity exposure which also allows use of highly concentrated stock solutions.

Abstract: One embodiment of the present invention includes a system comprising a housing having an upper end and a lower end. The housing carries a plurality of movable blades defining an entry aperture proximate to the upper end, an exit aperture proximate to the lower end, and a chamber there between. An adapter may be provided for connection to the housing and for receiving an article storage container. The upper end of the housing carries a sensor responsive to the presence and absence of the article storage container. A memory device carries information about the presence and absence of the article storage container. An article determining and actuating station has electronics for interrogating the memory device, for controlling the plurality of blades and for determining the number of items dispensed. A receptacle collects articles that have been dispensed. Methods of associating a flow control device with an article storage container and of dispensing items are also disclosed.

Abstract: A hydraulic scale for planter calibration is disclosed. The hydraulic scale includes a tube having indicia disposed thereon. The tube has a substantially closed bottom and a substantially open top. The indicia disposed on the tube include at least one scale having a zero line. The tube is configured to float substantially upright when positioned in a liquid, such that the zero line is substantially aligned with the surface of the liquid. A non-zero line portion of the scale is configured to align with the surface of the liquid when at least one of seeds and feed are placed within the tube.

Abstract: An automatic dispensing apparatus system and method for dispensing predetermined objects is disclosed. More particularly, the invention is an automatic bottled water dispensing apparatus system and method having a housing which houses various sizes of bottled water and a conveyor system for transporting the bottled water to a dispensing member for a customer. The dispensing apparatus system also includes a return machine for returning empty bottles, a plurality of selection members, a payment member and an inventory monitoring member.

Abstract: There is provided a dose counter for use with a medicament dispenser. The dose counter comprises a first count wheel arranged to rotate about a first axis of rotation, the first count wheel including a set of primary drive teeth arranged annularly thereon for drivable rotation of the first count wheel about the first axis of rotation; a second count wheel arranged to rotate about the first axis of rotation, the second count wheel including a set of secondary drive teeth arranged annularly thereon; and a kick wheel arranged to rotate about a second axis of rotation offset from the first axis of rotation, the kick wheel including a set of kick teeth arranged annularly thereon and in meshed relationship with the set of secondary drive teeth of the second count wheel such that rotary motion of the kick wheel results in rotary motion of the second count wheel.

Abstract: A multifunction timer device for providing a time/date stamp on objects includes a housing, a controller with a timer circuit contained in the housing, a display for displaying information from the timer circuit, and a multifunction input button. The input button is operable in predetermined sequences to select operating and display modes of the timer device. The input button can be operated to display an actual date or time, to display a current timer value, to select between count-up and count-down modes, and to increment a counter. An adhesive backing is provided for attaching the timer device to an object. A communications link is provided for interfacing the controller with an external programmer. A reset trigger is used to automatically reset the timer device when the object is moved in a particular way, such as when a lid is removed from a pill container.

Abstract: A vibrating bowl and the like are provided which are capable of accurately counting the number of objects to be fed. The vibrating bowl (10) includes: a concave portion (10a) capable of storing therein collectivity of objects (15) to be fed; a feed passage (20) capable of feeding the objects (15) within the concave portion (10a) by vibrating the objects (15); and a step portion (26) configured to cause the objects to be ejected outside of the concave portion (10a) in a direction substantially perpendicular and downwardly oblique to a feed direction in which those objects (15) which are present in the vicinity of a termination of the feed passage (20) are fed.

Abstract: Systems and methods for dispensing medications to hospitalized individuals through a first apparatus containing optional medications that is configured to be replenished by optional medication from a central storage location. Some embodiments provide that the first apparatus is associated with an individual patient. The first apparatus is preferably secured at a location near the individual patient, such as, for example, within the individual patient's room. By creating multiple dispensing apparatuses, a caregiver who administers required medications no longer has to retrieve optional medications from a central storage location.

Abstract: Systems and methods of determining product information in a vending machine that includes a dispenser with a number of products having a product identifier thereon. The dispenser includes a plurality of product locations, a positioning assembly positioned about the plurality of product locations, and a reader device for reading the product identifier on one of the number of products in the plurality of product locations. The positioning assembly maneuvers the reader device about the plurality of product locations.

Abstract: A kiosk dispenses and receives recorded optical disk media using an interconnected system central server computer through an Internet Service Provider. The system central server contains databases and processing, and is connected to a credit verification system. The central databases collect inventory administration information and customer data from the kiosks including creditcard and email addresses. The central server initiates credit verification and sends receipts to customers via email. The central server maintains databases that are used for remote inventory control and administration of the kiosk network. A kiosk has the capability to identify a recorded disk for automated restocking and may also perform quality assessment of a recorded disk. A kiosk may also provide publishing-on-demand or-act as a portal for remotely served advertisement.

Abstract: An imaging and workflow method, system, computer readable medium and user interface for processing information efficiently for the processing of medical prescription orders. The system includes support for document scanning, automated rules-based order processing, statistical reporting, document generation and document storage and retrieval. The present invention takes advantage of imaging technology to assist the user in scanning information into the system and software modules to improve the processing of orders. The present invention also includes database tables that identify to application processing logic the types and sequences of actions to be implemented for orders.

Abstract: Systems and methods for providing a pill bottle including an internal and external sleeve are provided. A pill bottle according to the invention may include an external sleeve and an internal sleeve. The internal sleeve preferably includes a cavity for holding pills. The external sleeve is slidably coupled to the internal sleeve. The external sleeve may include a groove and the internal sleeve may include a projection that may slide within the groove. The groove may prevent substantial rotation of the external sleeve with respect to the internal sleeve by preventing a substantial rotational of the projection with respect to the groove.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method, system and dispensing device for assisting a patient in complying with a medical regimen. The system includes an electronic dispensing device to be used by the patient which comprises a device to obtain information about the regimen. A device registers operation of the dispensing device by the patient taking the medicines. A warning device reminds a patient of the regimen. A medicine packing station packs the medicine within a package in portions to be taken according to the regimen. A database stores information about the regimen. A service center is provided to assist when necessary. A communication network is provided for communication between the dispensing device and the service center and/or between the service center and the patient.

Abstract: A medication dispenser is provided, comprising a securable container configured to store one or more doses of one or more medications and an access device configured to selectably permit access to the one or more doses. The medication dispenser further comprises an electronic interface configured to acquire user input from a user, and a processor configured to compare the user input to a database, to select, responsive to the comparing, an appropriate dose from the one or more doses, and to permit access through the access device to the appropriate dose. A method for dispensing medication is provided, comprising the steps of locating a medication dispenser at a point-of-care, acquiring user input from a user at the point-of-care, comparing the user input to a database, selecting, responsive to the comparing, an appropriate dose from the one or more doses, and permitting access through the access device to the appropriate dose.

Abstract: A method of controlling the functioning of a portable medicament dispenser, said portable medicament dispenser being for use with a refill container, said method comprising: (a) providing a memory for storing one or more parameters relating to the functioning of said dispenser; (b) storing authentication data for authenticating data for controlling a function of said dispenser; (c) receiving control data for said dispenser; (d) performing authentication of the control data using said stored authentication data; (e) in dependence on a result of the authentication, activating one or more parameters in said memory to control functioning of said dispenser in accordance with said control data, characterized in that the step (d) of performing authentication of the control data is performed by said refill container.

Abstract: Described herein are embodiments of systems and methods for providing an automated medication handling system that can, among other things, single-dose package medications, store and dispense medications in a pharmacy, transport medications to a nursing unit or other remote location, store them at that remote location, and load them into a portable unit carried by a nurse, who may dispense the medication at a bedside.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to improvements in article handling, such as in vending machines, and more particularly, to improvements in: methods and apparatus for handling articles using a vacuum-type product lifting/dispensing mechanism, article display panels which enhance sales of primary products, and product containment systems which improve product storage capacity, as well as the ease and efficiency of product handling, access and loading into the article handling apparatus.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of dispensing at least one solid dosage form comprising the steps of: opening a resealable container and lid assembly, wherein the container comprises a reservoir for storing solid dosage forms and an opening for dispensing individual solid dosage form; the opening further comprises an elastomeric seal that is at least partially located circumferentially around the opening; the lid comprises a plug that is integrally attached to an inner portion of the lid and the lid consists of a hinge attached to the container that functions to rotate the lid at one pivot point; dispensing at least one solid dosage form from the reservoir of the container and through the opening; applying a sufficient pressure upon an outer portion of the lid so that the plug engages the elastomeric seal of the opening; and maintaining the sufficient pressure by a latch mechanism located on both the container and the lid to form a moisture-tight seal between the plug and the elastomeric seal of the

Abstract: A medication on demand dispenser. The dispenser provides patient access to medications prescribed to be available on an as-needed basis but with a prescribed minimum time interval between doses. The dispenser permits access to a single medication dose after each minimum time interval has elapsed. After a drug dose is presented to the patient, the dispenser prevents access to the next dose until the minimum time interval has elapsed.

Abstract: The invention concerns a dispenser device for products arranged in or on a product carrier, in particular tablets or the like, including a holding receptacle for forming a holding chamber for the product carrier, and an actuating means for actuating the dispenser device, a safety element being associated with the actuating means for controlled actuation, which is distinguished in that the actuating means is a pivot lever which is simultaneously designed as a push-out element for pushing the products out of the product carrier. Further, the invention concerns a product carrier for holding products, in particular tablets or the like, which is distinguished in that the product carrier is individually designed such as to be structurally adaptable on the key and lock principle to a corresponding dispenser device. Further, the invention concerns a packaging unit with a product carrier and a dispenser device.

Abstract: A medicine cap with a timing mechanism that automatically resets upon the removal of the cap from a medicine bottle. A timing device is housed within a medicine camp, with a diaphragm housed below the timing device. The diaphragm has a rod extending upward from a central location, and fastening the cap onto a bottle or container causes the rod to be pushed up into contact with, and activate, the timing device. Upon removal of the cap from the bottle or container, the rod loses contact with the timing device, and the timer is reset. The cap may comprise multiple pieces, so the cap may be used in child-proof mode by the engagement and disengagement of splines on the cap housing and a cap insert. Means are supplied for enabling the constant engaging of the splines.

Abstract: A drug storage and dispensing system including a container for containing the drug, a storage tray and a drug identification key. The storage tray includes a plurality of drug storage chambers each defined by a sidewall and configured to receive the container. The key member includes at least one projection and at least one opening configured to receive the at least one projection. The at least one projection is disposed on either the sidewall or the container. The at least one projection receiving member is formed in the other of the sidewall and the container. The at least one projection and at least one opening have configurations that corresponding to at least one feature of the drug. The at least one projection is received in the at least one opening when the container is received in the storage chamber.

Abstract: A drug storage and dispensing system including a container for containing the drug, a storage tray and a drug identification key. The storage tray includes a plurality of drug storage chambers each defined by a sidewall and configured to receive the container. The key member includes at least one projection and at least one opening configured to receive the at least one projection. The at least one projection is disposed on either the sidewall or the container. The at least one projection receiving member is formed in the other of the sidewall and the container. The at least one projection and at least one opening have configurations that corresponding to at least one feature of the drug. The at least one projection is received in the at least one opening when the container is received in the storage chamber.

Abstract: A dispenser system having an integral sealing mechanism for resealing a severed end of a moisture-activated medical bandaging product. A sliding door closes the front of the dispenser system. The sliding door is raised and lowered by a handle preferably having a mechanical advantage. When raised, the sliding door's lower extreme defines a dispensing opening with the bottom of the box. A length of medical bandaging product can be pulled through this opening. When a user closes the door, the door's bottom extreme forms a tang and clevis interface which pinches the sleeve of the medical bandaging product and thereby form a moisture proof seal.

Abstract: A method for inspecting manual dispensing tray of the automatic medicine packaging machine that stably inspects dispensing error of the manual dispensing tray due to manual dispensing by a pharmacist and that prevents the inferiority of packaging due to the dispensing error of the manual dispensing tray is disclosed. The method includes step of confirming manual dispensing; step of photographing tray; step of acquiring medication information; step of analyzing information equivalence; and step of displaying dispensing error.

Abstract: To avoid the time and cost of manually changing price labels for each product column on each shelf 104, 114 within a vending machine 101, 111, a single elongate price display 206 is provided having an electronic price display region 205 for each product column on the shelf and a single set of electrical connections to the controller 301. Price values for each product column are stored in a memory 302 accessible to the controller and may be quickly and easily changed using an external device, such as a hand held data carrier with a DEXUCS interface or a wireless device. Small price changes may thus be economically effected.

Abstract: [Object] To permit a plurality of pharmacists to perform dispensing efficiently and simultaneously despite of simple, low-cost configuration. [Means for Settlement] There are provided: responsible a pharmacist identification means 7 which is provided at each container 14 of a drug rack 3 where a drug D is contained and which identifies a responsible pharmacist; a memory 25 where the pharmacist data is stored; and a control means 24 which, as a result of inputting the prescription data, associates the prescription data and the pharmacist data stored in a memory means 25 with each other to create a prescription table, stores the prescription table into the memory means 25, and then, when the drug is taken out from the drug rack 3, refers to the prescription table based on the pharmacist data of the pharmacist identified by the responsible pharmacist identification means 7, and judges whether or not the pharmacist is permitted to perform dispensing of the drug to be taken out from the drug rack 3.

Abstract: A variable capacity refrigeration system for a frozen product dispenser is controllable in response to cooling load requirements of the dispenser to have a variable cooling capacity that is in accordance with the cooling load demands placed on the refrigeration system by the dispenser. This is accomplished, in part, by providing the refrigeration system with a variable capacity compressor, the output capacity of which is controlled by varying its operating speed in a manner such that refrigerant output from the compressor generally meets the mass flow of refrigerant through expansion valves of the system. The arrangement provides for efficient operation of the frozen product dispenser from an energy standpoint and for a reduction in on/off cycling of the refrigeration system.

Abstract: A patient-portable medication event monitor is disclosed which is capable of detecting the dispensing of doses of a particular medication from the monitor, comparing the dispensing detected with information concerning the desired dosing regimen for the certain medication and displaying graphically to the patient at least one feedback indication of the patient's degree of compliance or deviation with the desired regimen.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method of determining a status condition of a medicament container having a memory contained therein for storing medicament effect data, such as, for example, drug interaction, side effect, and other information for determining the status condition of the container.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method of determining a status condition of a medicament container having a memory contained therein for storing medicament effect data, such as, for example, drug interaction, side effect, and other information for determining the status condition of the container.

Abstract: The invention provides a counting apparatus for providing a predetermined number of diagnostic test strips, the counting apparatus including a tray having a plurality of elongate indentations, each of which is configured to receive at least one diagnostic test strip, wherein at least one of the elongate indentations is open along one end proximate to an edge of the tray, and a funnel for receiving and directing a predetermined quantity of test strips from at least one open indentation on the tray. The invention further provides a method for using a counting apparatus to provide an accurate count of a predetermined number of diagnostic test strips for packaging.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for increasing and/or for monitoring a party's compliance with a schedule for taking medicines. In a first embodiment, a method is provided that includes receiving information regarding whether at least two medicine containers were able to communicate during a pre-determined time period, and determining a level to which the party complied to a medicine schedule based on the information. The method further includes rewarding the party based on the party's level of compliance. Systems, apparatus and computer program products are provided for carrying out the above-described embodiments and numerous other embodiments.

Abstract: An improved device for timely medication administration that attaches to any original container cap and that measures and displays elapsed time in response to opening or closing of said original container cap is disclosed. Physical, chemical and labeled characteristics of the original medication vessel are thus preserved as dispensed. This device includes a timing unit, a compression reset switch and a thermoplastic housing for the above with a resilient, flexible, circumferential wall that permits operation of the enclosed compression reset switch. The thermoplastic housing also features a rigid lower lip that allows adhesive attachment to the original lid.

Abstract: A mobile medicine storage unit for individuals under a doctor's care. The unit is programmable and preferably fully automatic, but also manual, in dispensing any number of medications up to four times per day at preselected times. Audible and visible indicators alert patients of proper dosages and timings of these doses. An optional integral water reservoir and cup dispenser makes it possible to properly take all medications with minimal effort at the unit. Patients not in close proximity to the unit will be alerted remotely via a pager. The unit will contact programmable emergency phone numbers when no patient response is received. Programmability allows customizing to accommodate individual medication needs. Mobility is aided by an optional wheeled cart.

Abstract: For ensuring that a vending machine motor will continue to operate until a product has descended through a vending space or an established time interval has elapsed, an optical beam is established across the vend space through which a product must drop. A change in beam intensity is detected. By preference infra red light is emitted at one focal point of an elliptical reflector, and detected at the other focal point. The light is emitted in pulses in the preferred embodiment, and the optical sensing system has automated calibration and error detecting functions.

Abstract: A sticky note feeder includes: a casing; a discharge slot provided on the casing, to which slot a sticky note having an adhesive portion at one end of the back surface is sent; a feeding unit which sends the sticky note to the discharge slot along a feeding path; and a sticky note holding portion which holds the sticky note sent by the feeding unit such that the back face of the sticky note faces to below and that the end of the sticky note where the adhesive portion is not provided is exposed through the discharge slot. The sticky note holding portion is disposed on the upstream side of the discharge slot in the feeding direction at such a position as to face the feeding path from below.

Abstract: A prescription compliance device includes a microcontroller, a program memory storing data representing a plurality of pre-programmed commonly prescribed medication-taking regimens, a selector selecting the regimen and programming the device in accordance therewith, and a display. The selector includes an event switch which is activated in conjunction with a patient taking a dose of a medication corresponding to their regimen to record the taking of the medication. The event switch causes the microcontroller to effect the display of the time at which the next dose of medication is scheduled to be taken, in accordance with the regimen selected by the selector. The microcontroller recalculates the time the next dose is to be taken based on the last time a dose of medication was taken in conjunction with a time change of the prescription compliance device to ensure a medically acceptable minimum time interval is maintained between doses of medication.

Abstract: A system for dispensing pill- or capsule-form medications (61) in desired doses (60). The system comprises a dispensing device (35), which includes a cartridge (20, 40) rotatable relative to a housing or frame (10) and provided with discrete dosage compartments (27, 47) for desired doses of medication. The cartridge (20, 40) is manipulated by elements (18, 18a, 18b; 14a, 14b, 15, 18, 19), whereby each separate dosage compartment (27, 47) is rotatable relative to the housing or frame (10) to a dispensing point (4, 12) for the dose of medication (60). A signalling device (75, 76) producing a sound and/or light signal activates at pre-programmed times. An electronics unit (19, 55) containing a dispensing program is reprogrammable by means of an external programming device (36, 66, 101, 102).

Abstract: A pill dispensing system includes a shelving unit in array form that holds a number of bulk containers, each holding a bulk amount of a pill to be dispensed. A computer controlled robot removes a selected bulk container and places it on a counter that also dispenses pills. The robot has an arm with a free end portion that can grip a bulk container or a single pill bottle to be filled. The robot is computer controlled to retrieve an empty pill bottle, place it on a label printing and applying unit, then place it next to the counter/dispenser to receive the selected number of selected prescription pills, then place the filled, labeled bottle on a conveyor. In an alternate embodiment, pill bottles are dispensed from a dispenser that holds bottles on inclined plates and feeds them to a vertical dispensing channel. Gates prevent the flow of bottles from an inclined position until the plate above has been emptied.

Abstract: A soda dispensing machine that includes a dynamic advertising medium that includes a memory coupled to a microprocessor which controls an audio generating device and a video displaying means. The audio generating device is coupled to a speaker that emits an advertising message. The programmable memory is coupled to a connector for updating the memory of the dynamic advertising medium. The memory may be re-programmable in a variety of ways. The video displaying means displays both a static advertising image and a dynamic advertising message. The audio generating device and the video displaying means are actuated by a switch or a plurality of switches wired in parallel in a variety of manners.

Abstract: In a counting machine, a feeding tray contains articles in bulk to supply the articles to a rotating disc-shaped support with a plurality of through holes. A check station has a transparent plate operating to keep the articles in the holes and cooperating with vision devices provided for checking integrity and presence of articles in the through holes A rejection station has plurality of wings to keep/release articles into/from respective through holes according to signals coming from the vision devices. Also a discharge station has a plurality of wings to release/keep articles from/into respective through holes, according to signals coming from the vision devices.

Abstract: A shelf system with computer-controlled compartment displays, whereby the displays indicate a number of articles to picked out of the compartment. The shelf system has a plurality of sliding shelves in that the shelves have at least one display element in their frontal area for order picking data. The shelf system is configured in such a way that a data exchange between the display elements and the control computer can take place irrespective of the relative position of the shelf vis-à-vis the other components of the shelf system.

Abstract: A medicament dispensing cabinet is comprised of a frame, at least one controller, and a plurality of drawers each movably carried by the frame and each defining a plurality of dispensing cells. A plurality of removable dispensing devices is provided with each one carried by one of the dispensing cells. Each of the dispensing cells further comprises a motor for providing rotary motion to one of the removable dispensing devices in response to the controller, a sensor operating in conjunction with the controller for counting medicament dispensed from one of the removable dispensing devices, a chute for receiving medicament dispensed from one of the removable dispensing devices and a chute gate for controlling access to the chute. The cabinet may additionally comprise a chute gate release responsive to the controller for controlling the chute gate and a chute gate sensor connected to the controller and responsive to the position of the chute gate.

Abstract: An automated system for dispensing condiment packets includes a magazine for storing a stack of condiment packets and a dispenser for metering out those condiment packets. Multiple magazines and dispensers can be combined in a single condiment delivery assembly, thereby providing the means for dispensing a variety of condiment flavors. The delivery assembly can be incorporated into a fast food vending machine or can be designed as a standalone unit.

Abstract: Products are dispensed from a dispensing apparatus in which products marked with transaction information are received in a chain of bins. In response to control information synthesized from transaction information on the products in the bins and a dispense request, the chain is moved to place a bin at a dispensing station on the dispensing apparatus. At the dispensing station, a mechanism is operated in response to the control information to provide access to the bin. A product in the bin may then be retrieved.