Abstract: An automated personal pill dispenser has one or more chambers for holding a supply of pills. A feed mechanism is associated with each chamber and is selectively operable to dispense an incremental number of pills from each respective chamber. A programmable controller is coupled to control and operate the feed mechanism. The controller has a timer, a memory and an input means and is programmably operable by the user and/or by remote input from a smart card, PDA or various networks such as one having access to data from a pharmacy. The programming presets at least one of a time and a number of pills to be dispensed from each chamber. The controller operates an alarm to alert the user and operates the feed mechanism to dispense pills at the preset time and number, also detecting the user's access to obtain the dispensed pills.

Abstract: A prescription drug storage and dispensing arrangement allows prescriptions stored, as they are filled, in a cabinet for customer pickup. The prescriptions are placed into receptacles such as pharmacy envelopes and placed on carriers, e.g., hanger bars, that are transported on a conveyor within the cabinet. The conveyor brings one carrier at a time to an access opening for loading or retrieving of a pharmacy envelope. In one embodiment the hanger bars are rods with spaced annular recesses defining bag positions. Scissors-action arms may be used to suspend the hanger rods from the conveyor webs. The identity of each pharmacy envelope and the location of the respective bar on said conveyor and the bag position are stored in a computer, with information identifying the customer order. When the customer arrives to pick up the prescription, the customer data is entered and the conveyor automatically moves to position the respective hanger bar at the access opening.

Abstract: Sheet dispensers, which provide feedback to a user or provide a unique function to a user, are disclosed. Visual, audio, aromatic, or other types of feedback may be provided to a user by the sheet dispenser. Sheet dispensers suitable for use as a switch, a room deodorizer, a flame-generating device, or a combination thereof are disclosed. A method of activating a switch-controlled object is also disclosed. Further, a method of making sheet dispensers is also disclosed.

Abstract: A medical dispenser being adapted to hold a number of medical doses and being adapted to determine when a user or patient gains access to one or more of the medical doses, the dispenser comprising: means for determining each of a first plurality of points in time or time intervals at which the user or patient should take a medical dose, means for detecting each of a second plurality of points in time where the user or patient gained access to the medical doses, means for providing to the user or patient information relating to a relation between the first and second pluralities, and wherein the providing means are adapted to, if the user gains access to the medication multiple times per point in time or time interval in the first plurality of points in time or time intervals, provide information relating to a relation between the pairs of one of the firs plurality of points in time or time intervals and a first of the second plurality of points in time occurring after the pertaining point in time of the first

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: The invention provides an integrated remote patient monitoring system that includes a garment, a monitoring device, and a medication dispensing unit. The garment is adapted for wearing by a patient, and is adapted to house at least one sensor that is in communication with the patient's body. The garment includes a connector communicating with the sensor. The monitoring device communicates with the sensor through the connector, and is configured to record signals from the sensor. The monitoring device is also configured to exchange signals representing patient status with a central station. The medication dispensing unit communicates with the monitoring device to receive commands from the monitoring device, and to transfer signals representing the status of medication doses to the monitoring device.

Abstract: A vending machine for dispensing flat items includes a housing having a removable collection pan with a pan bag, a door with display windows, a coin slide mechanism extending through the door and a folder slide mounted on the inside of the door. The folder slide releasably retains either a tower or a shipping/dispensing box for holding a column of the flat items to be dispensed through a slot in the door.

Abstract: An apparatus for enabling a user to follow a detailed schedule for taking a plurality of medicines/supplemdents at various times. The apparatus includes a set of containers, one for each medicine, a release mechanism for each container and a computer programmed to open any one of its containers at a time according to the schedule of events. An event is defined as taking of a dosage at a scheduled time. An “alert” signal alerts the user to prepare for each event. A “take” signal indicates that the dosage has actually been taken, A warning signal; is activated after a ‘take period indicating that the user has not taken his dosage. A form is initally filled out by the user listing “events” according to the schedule. Events shown on the screen are underlined as they occur and the daily form with underlines of executed events is saved as a history with later evealuation. A “fresh” form (without uderlines) is programmed to appear with the days date to start the next day's program.

Abstract: A preferred embodiment proof of delivery system for use with a solid product dispenser includes an outlet conduit and a sensor mechanism. The outlet conduit is light transmissive and includes an interior surface and an exterior surface. The interior surface is exposed to humid conditions. The sensor mechanism is proximate the exterior surface of the outlet conduit, and the sensor mechanism senses delivery of a solid product through the outlet conduit. The outlet conduit provides a barrier to the humid conditions thereby protecting the sensor mechanism from exposure to the humid conditions.

Abstract: A tablet dispenser includes a housing formed by first and second shells defining a cavity therebetween. A blister tray configured to receive a plurality of tablets therein is rotatably attached to the housing. The blister tray is moveable between a closed position in which the blister tray is releasably contained within the cavity, and an open position in which at least a portion of the blister tray extends out of the cavity. An alarm unit activates at least one alert signal upon completion of a cycle period. The alarm unit is reset after the blister tray is accessed to dispense at least one tablet.

Abstract: A tool vending machine which permits human access to only a single size compartment of a plurality of different sized compartments at a time so that the user is only able to extract a tool that is contained within that single compartment and does not permit access to any other compartment. The particular compartment is to be manually selected by the human user.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for configuring indicating configurations for containers wherein at least a subset of indicating configurations include an enhanced indicating device such as an electronic storage device, the containers to include enhanced devices being a function of whether or not the end user uses an interacting device capable of receiving information from the enhanced devices, the method and system indicating whether or not standard or enhanced containers should be used for specific prescriptions or orders and, in some cases, automatically providing the correct container and specifying (i.e., printing and writing) information to the containers.

Abstract: The present invention is method for switching a power supply associated with an instrumented medication package, such that energy contained in the power supply can be preserved until the instrumented medication package is dispensed to a patient. The switch may be formed by providing an exposed discontinuity on a trace forming a conductive path between the power supply and circuitry associated with the instrumented medication package. Bridging the discontinuity, such as by placing a conductive element across the discontinuity, allows the power supply to be conductively connected to the circuitry, such that the circuitry can perform its desired function.

Abstract: A device for dispensing labels of value comprises a lockable housing for containing a roll of transport medium having a plurality of labels releasably adhered thereto successively along its length. The housing has a slot through which the transport medium can be discharged from the housing, and pinch rollers for engaging the medium outside the housing adjacent to the slot and, upon actuation, for drawing the medium through the slot. Upon command the pinch rollers are actuated to draw only sufficient medium through the slot to expose a single label for removal from the medium. The pinch rollers engage the medium with sufficient frictional force to rupture the medium if an attempt is made to manually pull the transport medium out of the slot when the rollers are not actuated.

Abstract: A storage system for storing a plurality of objects, wherein one or more objects are each associated with a smartkey, the system comprising a system housing defining a recess; a front panel with at least one opening therein; a support board positioned within the recess and behind the front panel; a plurality of smartkey housings, each of which are coupled to at least one of the front panel and the support board, and operable to receive a smartkey therein; a plurality of concentrated lightsources each of which are associated with a respective smartkey housing and coupled to the support board, the concentrated lightsources being positioned behind at least a portion of each of the respective smartkey housings; circuitry for processing information and causing the illumination of specific concentrated lightsources; wherein at least a portion of each smartkey housing is illuminatable when the concentrated lightsource associated with a smartkey housing is illuminated.

Abstract: A unit dose medication compliance monitoring and reporting apparatus and system that includes a dispenser shell formed with dose compartments. A retainer sheet affixed to the shell seals each compartment and partially bursts upon dispensing. A sensor network and monitoring and reporting circuitry records dispensing times and determines an average time interval, which can be reported with other data on an integral data display. The system can thereby monitor and report patient compliance with prescription regimens. Additional data can be recorded and displayed for augmented patient compliance assistance and analysis, which data can include customized informational messages, telephone and other patient support contact information, unit doses dispensed and remaining, reminder alarms, identification data, prescription regimens, among other data.

Abstract: A system and process for providing an interactive video tour of a tour site to a user is presented. In general, the system and process provides an image-based rendering system that enables users to explore remote real world locations, such as a house or a garden. The present approach is based directly on filming an environment, and then using image-based rendering techniques to replay the tour in an interactive manner. As such, the resulting experience is referred to as Interactive Video Tours. The experience is interactive in that the user can move freely along a path, choose between different directions of motion at branch points in the path, and look around in any direction. The user experience is additionally enhanced with multimedia elements such as overview maps, video textures, and sound.

Abstract: The system for controlling and tracking medical items (830) includes one or more computers and associated data stores including information concerning authorized users, patients, medical items that have been prescribed for patients, medical items available, storage locations for medical items and events associated with receiving, dispensing, taking and returning medical items for patients. Authorized users taking medical items from storage locations are enabled to provide inputs through a display terminal (880) to indicate the taking of medical items for patients. Medical items are enabled to be taken from a plurality of storage cabinets (878). Storage cabinets are operative so that users may be guided to find a selected medical item for which corresponding information is input at an associated display terminal. Alternatively, users are enabled to gain access to the interior of the cabinet and indicate through appropriate inputs, the types and quantities of items that are being taken.

Abstract: An audit monitoring and product drop system for retrofitting into an existing vending machine and a method of operating a vending machine is disclosed. A product drop sensor is provided to detect when a product to be dispensed drops through a product drop area of the vending machine. When a product dispensing mechanism is actuated, the output of the product drop sensor is monitored to determine whether a product to be dispensed drops through the product drop area within a predetermined time interval after the product dispensing mechanism is actuated. Transactional information relating to the products dispensed and the funds received are stored in a memory means only if a product drop is sensed by the product drop sensor within the predetermined time period.

Abstract: A dispenser (10) for dispensing medical items (68, 70, 72) includes dispenser modules (28, 30) movably mounted thereon. The dispenser modules are selectively operative to dispense medical items therefrom into a path (54) which is connected to a delivery area (20) of the dispenser. The dispenser and the dispenser modules therein are configured to provide security against unauthorized access thereto. However an authorized user is enabled to readily access the dispenser modules and the medical items therein by unlocking a lock (22), opening a door (16) and extending the dispenser modules through an opening (18). With the dispenser modules in the extended position the medical items therein may be replenished. Alternatively, the dispenser modules may be disconnected from the dispenser and replaced with substitute dispenser modules.

Abstract: When a coin(s) is inserted and an article selection button is further pressed, article carrying-out processing is started, and an article carrying-out device performs a carrying-out operation. An article is dropped and received in a receiving section by this carrying-out operation. When the article is received in the receiving section, the article collides with the receiving section, and vibrations are generated. The vibrations are detected by a vibration detection unit, and it is judged that the article is received in the receiving section. In the series of article carrying-out operations, when unexpected vibrations are applied to the receiving section after the article carrying-out processing is started, since a microcomputer excludes the vibrations, only vibrations at the time of receiving the article can be detected accurately.

Abstract: A carousel used in a restocking system is comprised of a drive track. A plurality of bins are arranged into rows, with the rows being driven by said drive track. A drive mechanism, e.g. an electric motor, drives the drive track. A sensor is provided to sense the position of the rows of bins. A processor is responsive to the sensor and data representative of a plurality of picks for more than one order for controlling the drive mechanism. By combining picks from different orders into a batch, the time spent driving the rows and time between picks is minimized. The carousel may be divided into a plurality of columns, each with its own drive track, drive mechanism, and sensor, to enable several rows to be brought into a pick position simultaneously.

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: Sheet dispensers, which provide feedback to a user or provide a unique function to a user, are disclosed. Visual, audio, aromatic, or other types of feedback may be provided to a user by the sheet dispenser. Sheet dispensers suitable for use as a switch, a room deodorizer, a flame-generating device, or a combination thereof are disclosed. A method of activating a switch-controlled object is also disclosed. Further, a method of making sheet dispensers is also disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and system of medication monitoring which includes analyzing data on the clinical consequences of variable patient compliance with prescribed drug regimens, communicating to caregivers and/or patients the compliance-dependent probabilities of two clinically important transitions in health status: substantive improvement in the patient's health status and substantive deterioration in the patient's health status, defining acceptable levels of the respective probabilities of deterioration and of improvement, and intervening when appropriate to improve the patient's compliance, in order to achieve mutually-agreed upon maintenance, improvement, or avoidance of deterioration in health status.

Abstract: An RFID-based induction heating/vending system for quickly and efficiently heating, vending, and recollecting stadium seats (10) or other objects. The system includes a plurality of objects each including an induction-heatable body (22), a charging/vending station (12) for heating and vending the objects; a self-serve warming station (14) that may be used by consumers to reheat their objects; and a check-out station (16) that automatically collects objects from consumers after use.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a system and method for managing a patient treatment program including a prescribed dosing regimen. The system and method develops and/or makes use of a pharmacokinetic model and a pharmacodynamic model and the monitored adherence of the patient to determine if and when testing should be performed. The system and method further determines if the prescribed dosing regimen should be adjusted, based upon a comparison of the results of the one or more tests and the results predicted by the one or more models.

Abstract: Provided are a medicine case, a medicine case with a blood pressure measuring function, and a medication management system capable of storing blood pressure measurement together with medication record automatically, displaying simultaneously, and entering and issuing, and also supplying clinically useful information. In the medicine case, since the medicine to be taken is indicated at every timing specified by the attending physician, and the medicine can be taken without error or fail, and also the medication information and blood pressure measuring results are stored and displayed simultaneously, and can be observed simultaneously at a glance at a medical institute, and changes in blood pressure information and medication effects are determined easily, so that clinically useful information can be obtained.

Abstract: A pill loader system comprising a pillbox loader and a matching pillbox for loading pills into the pillbox. The pillbox loader has a plurality of loader containers, and the pillbox has an identical number of pillbox containers. The pillbox loader is positioned on top of the pillbox and the pills are placed into the loader containers according to instructions written on a pillbox loader form, which is positioned within a loader bottom plate which is slidably inserted between the loader and pillbox such that the loading instructions appear in the bottom of the loader containers. In operation, the loader bottom plate is removed, and the pills drop into corresponding pillbox containers.

Abstract: An automated drug dispensing system includes a cabinet adapted to store a variety of prepackaged pharmaceuticals in a plurality of bins for filling patient prescriptions. Each bin stores a particular variety of packaged multiple-dose pharmaceutical. Each variety of pharmaceutical is associated with a particular code. A controller receives request signals and in response generates dispense signals. Each bin includes a dispenser coupled to the controller for dispensing the packaged pharmaceuticals therefrom in response to a dispense signal sent from the controller. After a package is dispensed, a code reader determines the code of the dispensed package and verifies whether the code on the dispensed package matches the code of the requested package.

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 dispenser has an upper loading chamber (38), a dispensing chamber (40) located beneath the loading chamber, first and second openable covers (24, 34) for the loading chamber (38) and a dispensing chamber (40) and a gate means (32) mounted in the housing between the two chambers and forming a lower wall of the loading chamber (38). The gate means (32) is movable to allow selective communication of a loading chamber (38) and the dispensing chamber (40) to allow the contents of the loading chamber to fall into the dispensing chamber (40). Opening of the gate means (32) to an extent sufficient to allow the contents to fall into the dispensing chamber generates a signal from a limit switch (59) indicative that the loading chamber (38) is empty.

Abstract: The drug compliance monitoring system provides a patient with a portable medication dispenser programmed with medication-taking data. The dispenser alerts the patient to take a dose of medication and gathers compliance data relating to the medication-taking data. The compliance data is accessible to a physician, or other caregivers, etc., via a network database.

Abstract: The invention provides methods and apparatus for dispensing items from a dispensing unit. According to the invention, the dispensing unit comprises a plurality of locations in which the items are held, a processor in which records corresponding to the items on the unit are stored, and a plurality of item switches corresponding to the locations in which the items are held. The item switches are connected to the processor so that a user of the dispensing unit can input records of items removed from the unit into the processor. The apparatus described is particularly suited for dispensing medical supplies although the apparatus will be usable for other types of items as well. Preferred embodiments will include a plurality of visual indicators, typically in the form of light emitting diodes, corresponding to the locations in which the items are held.

Abstract: A tablet dispenser includes a housing formed by first and second shells defining a cavity therebetween. A blister tray configured to receive a plurality of tablets therein is rotatably attached to the housing. The blister tray is moveable between a closed position in which the blister tray is releasably contained within the cavity, and an open position in which at least a portion of the blister tray extends out of the cavity. An alarm unit activates at least one alert signal upon completion of a cycle period. The alarm unit is reset after the blister tray is accessed to dispense at least one tablet.

Abstract: The present invention relates to systems and methods for the remote dispensing of packaged and non-packaged medical products using networked communications systems. A preferred embodiment of the invention utilizes a network to provide for the secure delivery of confidential patient information and the sending of dispense instructions to a remote dispensing station. A preferred embodiment of the present invention relates to systems and methods of dispensing samples of drugs or other medical products. Another preferred embodiment of the invention provides a system and method for dispensing non-prescription medications.

Abstract: A fuel dispenser and method to detect the presence of a human being at a fuel dispenser as well as gather data about the human being using the fuel dispenser. The data is used to determine the language or dialect of the fueling instructions as well as the language or dialect of the advertisements understood by the human being. The data is also used to retrieve advertisements tailored to the human being. The fueling instructions and advertisements are displayed on the fuel dispenser in the language or dialect understood by the human being using the fuel dispenser.

Abstract: A method, apparatus and system, the method comprising receiving a request indication representing a request for an item, receiving a provided indication representing providing said item, and signalling an operator when the request indication has no corresponding provided indication. The apparatus includes a request indication receiver for receiving the request indication, a provided indication receiver for receiving the provided indication, a processing circuit for determining when the request indication has no corresponding provided indication, and a signal device in communication with the processing circuit for signalling the operator when the request indication has no corresponding provided indication.

Abstract: An article handler having an article storage area and an article dispensing opening at a top portion thereof, with a hinged lid mounted so as to have at least a predetermined range of arcuate movement thereover. The lid has a lifting portion thereon adapted for engagement with a lid opening/closing mechanism, and a lid opening/closing mechanism mounted adjacent the cooled article storage area.

Abstract: An optical vend-sensing system for reliably detecting the dispensing of an article, is presented. The system includes two parallel reflecting surfaces, each mounted at opposite sides of a vend space through which the article falls upon selection by a consumer. An emitter generates an optical beam which is reflected off each of the reflecting surfaces such that the reflected beam traverses across the vend space. A detector senses the reflected beam and communicates with a machine control unit. In response to the detector sensing that the reflected beam has been interrupted, the machine control unit terminates the vending operations of a mechanism controlling the dispensing of the article.

Abstract: A closure cap including a housing including a lower housing portion, an enlarged upper housing portion and defining a shoulder therebetween. The closure cap also includes a switch member being biased outwardly from the shoulder and movable between an outwardly extending position and a retracted position. A timer is carried by the housing and cooperates with the switch member for generating an indication relating to a length of time that the switch member has been in the retracted positioned and corresponding to a time since the closure cap was most recently secured onto the pill container. A child-proof adaptor ring may be removably carried by the housing.

Abstract: A hand-held device for alerting a user when scheduled medications, nutritional supplements, nutrients and minerals should be ingested. The device includes a processor positioned and a memory unit connected to the processor for storing user input data concerning a schedule for ingesting desired medications, nutritional supplements, nutrients and minerals. A display screen displays a message from the processor related to the schedule and function keys are connected to the processor for inputting the data concerning the schedule. The data includes a signal identifing the desired medications, nutritional supplements, nutrients and minerals to be ingested and a time at which they are to be ingested. The processor monitors a time of day and alerts the user when a scheduled time arrives. A speaker is connected to the processor for generating an audible alarm signal and alerting the user when a scheduled time arrives.

Abstract: The present invention provides a fuel dispenser capable of sensing the proximity or location of a customer relative to the fuel dispenser without requiring direct customer contact and controlling the display or aspects of the display accordingly to conserve energy, reduce heat generation or draw the customer's attention to the display once the customer is within a relative proximity to the fuel dispenser.

Abstract: A method for conducting clinical trials for a medication uses a unique identifier, a clock and an smart memory associated with the medication. Information regarding a method of calculating a next take time is received. It is determined if an identifier field on the smart memory is empty and, if empty, the unique identifier is written onto the smart memory. If not empty, it is determined if the identifier in the identifier field is not the unique identifier and if not then exiting. On the other hand, if the unique identifier is present in the identifier field, then calculating the next take time; storing a next take time; and prompting at the next take time. The time on the clock is stored as a take time. In addition, a subject diary form is displayed and subject information in regard to subject diary form is stored.

Abstract: A medicine storage apparatus includes a cassette having an inlet-outlet opening for delivering/receiving items of medicine therethrough and adapted to store items of medicine arranged in array while a force is applied to the items of medicine toward the inlet-outlet opening; a support mechanism for supporting the cassette while the inlet-outlet opening is exposed; and a counting mechanism for counting the number of items of medicine stored in the cassette. A user takes out items of medicine stored in the cassette from the inlet-outlet opening in an arrayed sequence when the medicine is to be used. Among the delivered items of medicine, unused items of medicine are pushed back into the cassette from the inlet-outlet opening.

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: The present invention is directed to a method of dispensing or administering medications which requires prompting the user for a reason if the user wants to dispense or intends to administer a medication that is not on the patient's medication profile. For example, a patient may be in severe discomfort, or some other condition exists, that requires dispensing and administration of a medication not approved by a pharmacist for the patient. The method prompts the user to supply a reason (exception) for the dispensing or administering that can be used to create an audit trail. The method may include identifying a patient, accessing a medication profile for the identified patient, selecting a medication for the identified patient, the selected medication not having been reviewed against the patient's medication profile, prompting the user to identify an exception, and reviewing the exception to determine its acceptability.

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: An in-wall coin bank with novelty face. The bank features a novelty face with an entertainment feature. The entertainment feature responds when a deposit is made, amusing or entertaining the user. The face may be detachable, different types of faces with entertainment features are possible. Methods of using the bank for saving are also disclosed and claimed.

Abstract: A message delivery system for paper dispensers having a housing for dispensing paper, audible message delivery annunciator, switch mechanism, timer and speaker, wherein the annunciator stores and delivers at least one message when the switch is closed, the speaker provides an audible output of the message, the switch triggers when paper is dispensed and the timer controls the length of the message and supply of power.