Automatic Control Patents (Class 221/9)
  • Publication number: 20020070226
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2001
    Publication date: June 13, 2002
    Applicant: Telepharmacy Solutions, Incorporated
    Inventors: Harold J. Liff, Brian T. Hart, Robert L. Wallace, Arthur A. Berube, Richard D. Hart, Enea W. Bossi
  • Publication number: 20020047020
    Abstract: A vending system is provided for the dispensing of products, wherein said vending system comprises means for sampling the sensory characteristics of a product, prior to the dispense of the product. A process is provided for the dispense of a product from a vending system, wherein the consumer or user selects the product to be dispensed from the interface of the vending system and said product is dispensed from the vending system into a storage container located in the dispense point of the vending system, wherein prior to the dispense of the product, the consumer or user may sample the sensory characteristics of said selected product. The sensory experience may be commenced with the use of a product experience button on a vending system, prior to dispense of a product from the vending system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2001
    Publication date: April 25, 2002
    Inventor: David Robert Dudek
  • Patent number: 6371715
    Abstract: A predetermined number of IC (integrated circuit) packages are transferred from a first IC package tube to a second IC package tube. A chosen IC package track has dimensions that fit to dimensions of each of the IC packages. The first IC package tube is placed on a first end of the chosen IC package track, and the second IC package tube is placed on a second end of the chosen IC package track. A stopper gate and a singulator are disposed above the chosen IC package track between the first end and the second end of the chosen IC package track. The first IC package tube, the chosen IC package track, and the second IC package tube are tilted to a slant with the first IC package tube being disposed toward a top of the slant and with the second IC package tube being disposed toward a bottom of the slant such that the IC packages slide out from the first IC package tube, down along the chosen IC package track, and toward the second IC package tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2002
    Assignee: Advanced Micro Devices, Inc.
    Inventors: Sa-nguan Boochakorn, Somboon Rungsawang, Watcharin Pinlam
  • Publication number: 20020017530
    Abstract: System for the activation of the coin selector for cigarette vending machines, being of the type of cigarette vending machines that include a coin selector for validation thereof, the system comprising activating means of the selector of the machine, for a certain amount of time, for the recognition of the coins inserted for the purchase of the desired product, supervising and controlling the sale of cigarettes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2001
    Publication date: February 14, 2002
    Inventor: Felix Guindulain Vidondo
  • Patent number: 6332099
    Abstract: In a system and method for a payout in the form of paper tokens from a gaming machine, the system includes a hopper for dispensing the paper tokens, a cassette for containing the paper tokens, and software for controlling the operations of the payout of the paper tokens from the gaming machine. The cassette and hopper are located in the gaming machine in plain view of a player, and are locked for security purposes. Each paper token is transported through a payout path by mechanisms in the cassette and the hopper which interact to dispense a paper token. A plurality of sensors sense the transport of the paper token through the payout path, the operation of the transport mechanism, and the status of the paper token supply. An escrow area is provided in the cassette for rejected paper tokens, as sensed by sensors and diverted by a diverting mechanism into the escrow area. A memory element in the cassette stores operational information regarding dispensing of the paper tokens.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2001
    Assignee: Bally Gaming, Inc.
    Inventors: Raymond J. Heidel, Rodney Hill, Thomas N. Taxon, Lawerence McAllister
  • Publication number: 20010028308
    Abstract: This invention relates to an interactive medication container or console that hold or otherwise organizes one or more medication vials or containers. Each vial has a memory strip containing medication and prescription information. Each vial can also include a reminder unit that is attached to and portable with the individual vials. The console or reminder unit reads the information strip of the vial and communicates this information to or interacts with a patient to remind them to take the medication. The medication container or reminder unit also gathers or tracks information such as consumption time, quantity remaining, patient feedback, and contraindication information. The medication container or reminder unit interacts with the patient by displaying questions or receiving and recording input from the patient before, during or after a dose of medication is taken. The patient input can be used to modify the dosing regimen for future doses of medication.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2001
    Publication date: October 11, 2001
    Inventor: Carlos De La Huerga
  • Patent number: 6161721
    Abstract: The preferred medicament dispensing cell (10) for use in an automatic dispensing machine (12) includes dual rotary platens (20,22). A storage platen (20) delivers medicament units (14) such as tablets and capsules from a storage section (86) to a discharge platen (22) in the discharge section (88) to deliver the units (14) to an outlet (50). In preferred forms, the platens (20,22) are sloped toward the respective peripheries in order to induce spreading of the units (14) into a single file for accurate counting during dispensing. The preferred embodiment also includes a discharge gate assembly (24) for receiving a medicament unit (14) in a gage chamber (108) to define the width of the discharge channel (110) leading to the outlet (50), and further includes an arcuate metering wall (26) shiftable into and out of the passage (84) between the storage and discharge sections (86,88) for metering medicament units (14) into the discharge section (88).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2000
    Assignee: Scriptpro LLC
    Inventors: Keith W. Kudera, Lawrence E. Guerra, Ronald A. Leonard
  • Patent number: 6115649
    Abstract: A vending machine and distribution management system is provided which stores and sells merchandise to customers. The system includes a host computer for receiving actual sales data from the vending machine in order to track inventory and sales preferences, and to notify suppliers to restock the machine. The vending machine provides a variety of signals which are intended to entice potential customers to approach the machine and purchase merchandise. A questionnaire is provided for obtaining consumer preferences in the machine and the data is sent to the host computer for analyzing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2000
    Assignee: Crestech International Corporation, Ltd.
    Inventor: Haruhiro Sakata
  • Patent number: 6108588
    Abstract: A system for monitoring and dispensing medical items includes a plurality of hook registers (10). Each of the hook registers includes sensors (48, 60, 62, 64) sensing the removal or addition of a medical item to the storage location on the hook register. Each hook register has a microprocessor (66) connected to the sensor which stores a count of the items added or removed from the location. The microprocessor also includes location identifying information specifically associated with the particular hook register. The microprocessor is periodically polled by a controller (72) which reads and stores the count and location identifying information from each of the hook registers. The controller information is periodically read by a data terminal (76) which is connected through a local area network (82) to a remote computer (84) having a processor and data store.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2000
    Assignee: Diebold, Incorporated
    Inventor: R. Michael McGrady
  • Patent number: 6078896
    Abstract: A fuel dispenser includes fuel delivery components located in a service station, a card reader for reading customer credit or debit cards, a customer data input mechanism, and a video infeed line for infeeding a video signal including advertising of a product available for sale at the service station and data about the advertisement in a closed-captioning portion of the video signal. The dispenser also includes a video display screen arranged to receive the video signal and display the advertisement as a visible video program, a memory of information about products that may be advertised, and a data controller adapted to control data for the card reader and capable of reading data from the closed-captioning portion of the video program for use in a manner independent of affecting the way the visible video program is displayed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2000
    Assignee: Marconi Commerce Systems Inc.
    Inventors: David L. Kaehler, Joseph D. Long
  • Patent number: 6073834
    Abstract: An apparatus for accepting return of unused medical items is part of a system (10) used for automated dispensing and tracking of medical items within a medical facility. The apparatus includes a return drawer (52, 156) and a retrieve drawer (54, 158) which are opened responsive to signals received from a display terminal (26) which is networked with a computer (12) which includes a database (14). The return drawer includes a pocket (74, 160) therein. The pocket is accessible from outside of a housing (56) when the return drawer is moved to an open position. The pocket includes an opening (76, 156). The pocket is closed by a trap door (78, 170) when the return drawer is in the open position. Medical items to be returned (132, 184, 186) are placed in the pocket and the return drawer is closed. Upon the closing of the return drawer the trap door is moved to an open position by an actuator. The returned medical item passes from the pocket to a retrieve area (84, 188) in the retrieve drawer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2000
    Assignee: Diebold, Incorporated
    Inventors: James A. Michael, David M. Dean, R. Michael McGrady
  • Patent number: 6021918
    Abstract: A central motor-driven disk is formed with a row of open-bottomed pill-receiving virtually contiguous tubes about its border. The disk is surrounded by a first and second ring also having rows of pill-receiving open-bottomed tubes, the tubes come in to registry one-by-one with dispensing openings in a housing which supports these elements. Pills drop through a dispensing opening into a delivery drawer in the housing. Tab portions on the disk and the rings effect the driving by the disk of the first ring and then also the second ring as the pills in the previous ring or disk are dispensed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2000
    Assignee: Medical Equipment Development Services
    Inventors: Richard R. Dumont, Joseph W. Jarosz
  • Patent number: 6006946
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 28, 1999
    Assignee: Automated Prescriptions System, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey P. Williams, Galina Potepalov, Allan T. Dolores, Michael Bergeron
  • Patent number: 5971594
    Abstract: A medication dispensing system comprising an on-site medication dispensing unit and a central monitoring facility. The on-site medication dispensing unit holds medication in a plurality of canisters which it selects from according to an entered and stored prescription regimen and then notifies the patient by an audible or other sensory signal. If the patient presses a button within a prescribed time, the unit dispenses the selected canisters. If the patient does not press the button within the prescribed time, or if the unit detects a failure to dispense the selected canister, the unit makes the canister inaccessible and contacts a predetermined list of caregivers and then a central monitoring facility.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 26, 1999
    Assignee: Innovative Medical Devices, Inc.
    Inventors: Anil Sahai, Stephen K. Breede, Roger O. Topliffe, Douglas A. Topliffe
  • Patent number: 5961036
    Abstract: An apparatus for accepting return of unused medical items is part of a system (10) used for automated dispensing and tracking of medical items within a medical facility. The apparatus includes a return drawer (52, 156) and a retrieve drawer (54, 158) which are opened responsive to signals received from a display terminal (26) which is networked with a computer (12) which includes a database (14). The return drawer includes a pocket (74, 160) therein. The pocket is accessible from outside of a housing (56) when the return drawer is moved to an open position. The pocket includes an opening (76, 156). The pocket is closed by a trap door (78, 170) when the return drawer is in the open position. Medical items to be returned (132, 184, 186) are placed in the pocket and the return drawer is closed. Upon the closing of the return drawer the trap door is moved to an open position by an actuator. The returned medical item passes from the pocket to a retrieve area (84, 188) in the retrieve drawer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 5, 1999
    Assignee: Diebold, Incorporated
    Inventors: James A. Michael, David M. Dean, R. Michael McGrady
  • Patent number: 5957372
    Abstract: An apparatus for accepting return of unused medical items is part of a system (10) used for automated dispensing and tracking of medical items within a medical facility. The apparatus includes a return drawer (52) and a retrieve drawer (54) which are opened responsive to signals received from a display terminal (26) which is networked with a computer (12) which includes a database (14). The return drawer includes a pocket (74) therein. The pocket is accessible from outside of a housing (56) when the return drawer is moved to an open position. The pocket includes an opening (76). The pocket is closed by a trap door (78) when the return drawer is in the open position. Medical items to be returned (132) are placed in the pocket and the return drawer is closed. Upon the closing of the return drawer the trap door is moved to an open position by an actuator. The returned medical item passes from the pocket to a retrieve area (84) in the retrieve drawer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 28, 1999
    Assignee: Diebold, Incorporated
    Inventors: David M. Dean, R. Michael McGrady
  • Patent number: 5959869
    Abstract: A vending machine controller having a single serial port on the same chip as the programmable processor. The controller includes a port arbitrator that selectively connects one of several serially communicating devices to this single serial port. The vending machine controller also has multitasking capabilities so that remote price changing, and/or remote reprogramming can be conducted at the same time as a vend operation and/or a multimedia presentation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 28, 1999
    Assignee: The Coca-Cola Company
    Inventors: John Miller, Kit Taylor, Ira Tolmich
  • Patent number: 5915588
    Abstract: A lottery ticket dispensing system is for improved pull-tab lottery tickets of a type that include a plurality of normally closed windows that can be opened to reveal play symbols thereunder with some of the play symbols being winning symbols. Each of the improved lottery tickets is also provided a normally closed bar code window with bar code markings hidden thereunder which includes ticket information for indicating each of the play symbols as aligned with its respective window. When the ticket is being dispensed, the bar code window is opened and the bar code revealed thereunder is aligned with a bar code reading device to read and store the ticket information. The front panel of the machine includes a plurality of display areas and associated switches that correspond to the windows of the ticket to generate a display symbol in the corresponding display area which indicates the play symbol that is under the selected window of the ticket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 29, 1999
    Assignee: Cory Consultants, Inc.
    Inventors: Raymond G. Stoken, Bernard J. Dobransky, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5915313
    Abstract: A system for dispensing multiple types of seed as a planting apparatus (planter or drill) travels throughout an agricultural field is disclosed herein. The planting apparatus is typically an implement having row units for applying seed to the field as the implement is pulled by a vehicle (tractor). The system includes multiple seed bins configured to store multiple types of seed (e.g., multiple crops or varieties). Multiple bins can be formed within a seed hopper by a removable dividing wall. A switch assembly selectively discharges seed from one seed bin in response to control signals generated in a manual or an automatic mode. The control signals are generated using an operator input device in manual mode, and using location signals and a prescription type map in automatic mode. Discharged seed is received by a distribution assembly for delivery to the row units.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 29, 1999
    Assignee: Case Corporation
    Inventors: Timothy J. Bender, David D. Flamme
  • Patent number: 5884806
    Abstract: The present invention features a pill-dispensing system which has a number of standardized, or universal-type, modules. Each module has a rotating, helix-drive mechanism, which is rotationally controlled by a microprocessor. The helical-drive mechanism features several improvements, both in the drive mechanism and in the software control of the rotational drive system by the microprocessor that allows for the dispensing of pills of all shapes and sizes one at a time. The helix of the drive is securely mounted within a rotatable, hollow tube. A stationary collar is mounted adjacent the upper end of the rotating tube. The rotating helix extends into the stationary collar and forces pills from the hollow tube to the dispensing edge of the stationary collar. A hopper positioned at the input end, or mouth of the tube, feeds a batch quantity of pills to the drive mechanism. The tube is angled upwardly from the mouth portion, so that the pill-dispensing end is positioned above the input end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 23, 1999
    Assignee: Innovation Associates, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph H. Boyer, James P. Boyer, Henry Gerlitz
  • Patent number: 5850344
    Abstract: A medication dispensing and timing system includes a central monitoring computer which generates and sends an address-specific medication prompting message in accordance with a prescribed medication dispensing schedule over a two-way paging system to a communicator carried by a patient. The communicator includes receiver circuitry which responds to the prompt message to generate a display and audible alarm to alert the patient. Upon the patient acknowledging the message by actuating a switch on the communicator transmitter circuitry within the pager sends a reply message to the monitoring computer. In the event that a reply message is not received within a predetermined time period following the dispensing event, the computer initiates an alternative communication procedure which includes telephone calls to 1) the patient, 2) his doctor, 3) his care provider, or 4) an emergency contact.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 15, 1998
    Assignee: Profile Systems, LLC
    Inventor: Gary W. Conkright
  • Patent number: 5838575
    Abstract: A prescription dosage unit dispensing system including a housing having a plurality of cells, each cell adapted to contain a base-port subunit including a dosage unit dispensing device, a disposable drug-containing tower unit containing in sealed condition a single type of solid dosage unit is operatively connected to the base-port subunit and a device for securing a vial in place so that it can receive the solid dosage units from the drug-containing tower unit as instructed manually or via automated microprocessor/computer control.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 17, 1998
    Assignee: Rx Excell Inc.
    Inventor: Nicholas Lion
  • Patent number: 5832693
    Abstract: A system for collecting prescribed injection ampules. In this system, it is possible to collect any ampules that cannot be collected from an automatic ampule dispenser with high efficiency. An ampule collecting apparatus has a tray supply unit for supplying trays. The trays supplied from the tray supply unit are sent into an ampule dispenser by an elevator unit and a conveyor unit, and moved downward in the dispenser by the downward conveyor unit. While the trays are being fed in the dispenser, ampules are put in the respective trays. The trays then exit the dispenser and stacked by the tray stacker. A drug name list is put in each tray. Of the ampules that are specified in a prescription, those which have not been collected from the ampule dispenser are highlighted on the list. Thus, a pharmacist can instantly see which ampules are not in the tray and can collect the missing ampules from a separate shelf.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 10, 1998
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Yuyama Seisakusho
    Inventors: Shoji Yuyama, Hiroshi Nose
  • Patent number: 5831862
    Abstract: An automatic transaction apparatus, such as a vending machine, containing a current inventory of products for purchase and including a display unit. The current product inventory stored in the apparatus is monitored and representations of products appearing on the display unit are changed in response to monitoring the current product inventory. Methods of operating the automatic transaction apparatus are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 3, 1998
    Assignee: Mars, Incorporated
    Inventors: Michael C. Hetrick, Frank Mars, Robert D. Ross
  • Patent number: 5812410
    Abstract: A prescription dosage unit dispensing system including a housing having a plurality of cells, each cell adapted to contain a base-port subunit including a dosage unit dispensing device, a disposable drug-containing tower unit containing in sealed condition a single type of solid dosage unit is operatively connected to the base-port subunit and a device for securing a vial in place so that it can receive the solid dosage units from the drug-containing tower unit as instructed manually or via automated microprocessor/computer control.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 22, 1998
    Assignee: RX Excel, Inc.
    Inventors: Nicholas Lion, Nicholas Kydonieus
  • Patent number: 5805455
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 8, 1998
    Assignee: Omincell Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Randall A. Lipps
  • Patent number: 5768139
    Abstract: An automated method for filling orders using an automated ordering system having a product conveyor, a computer controller, and a plurality of dispensers for dispensing products arrayed in a matrix in rows and columns, wherein the method of filling orders comprises the steps of: coupling each dispenser in a row to a first common control element in the controller; coupling each dispenser in a column to a second common control element in the controller, where the column of dispensers shares a common dispenser with the row of dispensers; and actuating the first and the second control elements simultaneously to dispense a product from the common dispenser onto the conveyor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 16, 1998
    Assignee: ElectroCom Automation, L.P.
    Inventors: James Moody Pippin, Jerry Dale Erwin
  • Patent number: 5761877
    Abstract: An automated system for individual dosage medication distribution 10 is provided. The system 10 includes a medium rate dispenser 20, a fast rate dispenser 30, a low rate dispenser 40, a conveyor 50, a diverter 60, a bagger 70, and collection bins 80 and 85. The dispensers 20, 30, and 40 are arranged to be able to deliver individual dosage packages of drugs to the conveyor 50. The conveyor 50, in turn, is configured to transport individual dosage packages to the bagger 70 or the collection bin 85. A programmable controller 12 receives patient prescription order information from health care providers and directs the dispensers 20, 30, and 40, conveyor 50, diverter 60, and bagger 70 to automatically pick the prescribed medication dosage unit, place it in a transportable package, and label the package for the health care personnel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 9, 1998
    Inventor: W. Gerald Quandt
  • Patent number: 5703786
    Abstract: A medication dispensing and timing system includes a central monitoring computer which generates and sends a periodic time reference message over a two-way paging system to a plurality of patient communicators carried by respective patients. Each communicator includes sufficient memory to store the individual medication schedule of the particular patient, and processing circuitry which utilizes the time reference to interrogate the memory and generate a display and audible alarm to alert the patient when medication is to be taken. Upon the patient acknowledging the prompt, the communicator sends a reply message over the paging network to the central monitoring computer. Only in the event that a reply message is not received by the monitoring computer within a predetermined time period following the dispensing event, the computer initiates a procedure which includes an address-specific follow-up prompt message to the particular patient communicator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 30, 1997
    Assignee: Profile Systems, LLC
    Inventor: Gary W. Conkright
  • Patent number: 5697517
    Abstract: The invention relates to a dispensing unit for banknotes (42), comprising a banknote container (12) and a receiving module (14) which is in the form of the frame into which the banknote container (12) can be pushed. The unit includes an extracting and separating device for extracting banknotes (42) through an opening of the banknote container. The opening can be closed by a flap (26) and a closure plate (30). A retracting element (34) presses the banknotes against the extracting device by a force (P), before the flap is closed. The banknotes which are located in the banknote container are thereby forced away from the opening, back into the container interior. The retracting device is displaced in the direction of the extracting device (34) until the banknotes (42) come into the extracting position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 16, 1997
    Assignee: Siemens Nixdorf Informationssysteme Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Gunter Holland-Letz
  • Patent number: 5688423
    Abstract: In accordance with the present invention, a vending machine has one or more programmable cook cycles for use with one or more heat sources in cooking a food package to be dispensed to the customer. In one embodiment of this invention, each cook cycle includes a start time and a duration. Each cook cycle is associated with a heat source and a product code indicating the type of food to be cooked. Initially, cook cycles are copied into a random access memory from default cook cycles hard coded in the software program code and stored in electrically erasable programmable read only memory (EEPROM) of the vending machine controller. The cook cycles in RAM can be over written by an operator for the various type of foods to be cooked. The cook cycles in RAM are used by the vending machine to automatically cook a food product selected by a customer, without any further inputs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 18, 1997
    Assignee: KRh Thermal Systems
    Inventors: Paul T. Rudewicz, Thom Thomas, James W. Bradfield
  • Patent number: 5660305
    Abstract: In an automatic prescription dispensing system, a multiplicity of pill dispensers dispensing the pills of different prescriptions are arranged in columns and rows. A conveyer organizes open and labeled pill bottles in columns corresponding to the columns of the pill dispensers and carries the columns of pill bottles severally past and beneath the pill dispensers in the array. The pill bottles are carried in bottle carriers which in turn are carried by pallets on a conveyer. When a pill bottle gets to a pill dispenser containing the pills to be dispensed for the prescription of a pill bottle, the pills are released from the dispenser into the pill bottle, whereby a plurality of pill bottles passing under the array of dispensers are filled simultaneously. The pill dispensers count the pills out one at a time and accumulate the pills of a prescription before the pill bottle to receive such prescription reaches the dispenser and then releases the pills en masse into the pill bottle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 26, 1997
    Assignee: Medco Containment Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher J. Lasher, Dennis Wayne Rice, Michael Joseph Szesko
  • Patent number: 5657236
    Abstract: A medication dispensing and timing system includes a central monitoring facility and a plurality of patient communicators, each containing sufficient memory for storing the medication schedule of a respective patient, and a clock circuit providing time and date information utilized in conjunction with the stored schedule to provide visual and aural prompts to the patient as medication is to be taken. Upon receiving a prompt the patient actuates a switch which causes transmitter means within the communicator to send a reply signal back to a computer at the monitoring facility, which includes a memory containing the same medication schedule and a clock circuit providing date and time information, whereby a follow-up procedure is initiated, including a follow-up message sent to the communicator, in the event a reply message is not received within a predetermined time following a scheduled medication event.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 12, 1997
    Assignee: Profile Systems, LLC
    Inventor: Gary W. Conkright
  • Patent number: 5608643
    Abstract: A system (8) for managing multiple dispensing units by communicating information through a communications network (12) is provided. The system includes a plurality of dispensing units (10) operable to transmit and receive information through the network. Each dispensing unit includes a plurality of bins (20) operable to hold a quantity of product. Each dispensing unit includes a plurality of reference level sensors (72) where each reference level sensor is coupled to an associated bin. Each reference level sensor is operable to determine when the quantity of product in the associated bin drops below a reference level (76) that is higher than an out of stock level (82) of the associated bin. Each dispensing unit includes a controller subsystem (34) coupled to the plurality of bins, to the plurality of reference level sensors, and to the network.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 4, 1997
    Assignee: General Programming Holdings, Inc.
    Inventors: Martin A. Wichter, Tom R. Pohrte, Jack A. Ross, Ray G. Sadler
  • Patent number: 5445295
    Abstract: An unattended vending machine for the sale of articles such as compact audio cassette tapes, video cassette tapes, electromagnetic or electro-optical storage devices, or any other device capable of storing recorded information for subsequent reproduction by a patron. The machine displays the various disks or cassettes available, for customer purchase, and is also capable of playing extracts or complete sections of audio or audio-visual entertainment from the available disks or tapes on a video screen or audio speaker. Communications capability is available for transmitting pricing, accounting, and alarms, and for verifying credit cards, and a centralized automatic-ordering system permits reduced human intervention, and the maintenance of high levels of sales with a minimum inventory.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 29, 1995
    Inventor: Graham Brown
  • Patent number: 5390711
    Abstract: Improvements in a snow cone making machine including a retaining collar which interacts with a cone cup to prevent relative movement with respect to each other; an automatic cone cup dispenser having opposing forceps for extracting cone cups singly from a cup canister; and a scanning activation system for reading a product code on the cone cup to activate the preparation of a snow cone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 1993
    Date of Patent: February 21, 1995
    Inventor: James D. Murphey
  • Patent number: 5348061
    Abstract: A method and system for staging drugs dispensed from a drug dispensing apparatus including an accumulator operative to temporarily accumulate drugs for later dispensing into vials. The accumulator includes one or more staging containers positioned to receive dispensed drugs that fall freely under the influence of gravity, each container having an outlet that is selectively openable so that the drugs retained therein can be delivered to a vial at a later time. Several orders can be staged in parallel if several such staging containers are provided. The drugs are staged in the accumulators for dispensing before vials are positioned so that dispensing of all the drugs for each vial may be performed simultaneously.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 1992
    Date of Patent: September 20, 1994
    Assignee: Baxter International Inc.
    Inventors: Archie Riley, Keith Goodale
  • Patent number: 5339250
    Abstract: The hotel vending network includes a central control at the hotel main desk and a vending unit in each hotel guest room. The microprocessor controlled vending units include a display arrangement for displaying prices of articles to be rended and a user allocatable keyboard for use in article selection and final purchase from the vend unit. Each purchase is a cooperative action between the central control and a vend unit and is completed by an acknowledgment signal from the vending unit which signal is required before actual billing of a rended article occurs. The keyboard is also used to control service access to the vending unit by means of passwords assigned from the central control.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 16, 1994
    Assignee: Inn Room Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Martin J. Durbin
  • Patent number: 5337253
    Abstract: A method and an apparatus for providing a manifest and a sales report for route distributors selling newspapers is disclosed. It particularly cooperates with newspaper vending racks which capture data regarding time of day for sales and sales volume. It enables a route distributor to be equipped with a portable CPU having an internally stored manifest specifying rack locations and the number of papers to be loaded at each location, sometimes known as a draw. While driving the route, stale newspapers known as returns are also collected, and this data is also input. This system therefore enables optimization of draws and distribution to increase the production of the route salesman. Moreover, data is collected in the portable CPU and is held by the CPU without requirement of sales reports or manifest on paper. The electronic data capture also improves security, and enables steps to be undertaken to reduce paper pilferage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 9, 1994
    Assignee: Kaspar Wire Works, Inc.
    Inventors: Janette Berkovsky, Scott Baer
  • Patent number: 5329459
    Abstract: A medication delivery device includes a housing containing separate first and second storage locations for holding medication dosages away from access by the user. Associated separate first and second delivery mechanisms permit selective delivery of a medication dose from either the first or second storage locations to the patient. The invention provides a control element that discriminates between the actuation of the first delivery mechanism and the second delivery mechanism, thereby discriminating between the delivery of medication housed in the first and second storage locations. The control element discriminates between different first and second input criteria. In response to the first input criteria but not in response to the second input criteria, the control element actuates the first delivery mechanism. In response to the second input criteria, the control element actuates the second delivery mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 12, 1994
    Assignee: Healthtech Services Corporation
    Inventors: Stephen B. Kaufman, Aleandro DiGianfilippo, Tamara L. Sager
  • Patent number: 5323721
    Abstract: A planter monitor system monitors, measures and displays a plurality of planter performance parameters. The system includes a display console, a plurality of row unit modules and a plurality of seed sensors. The system can be used with a wide variety of planters made by different manufacturers and on many different planter types. The system can accurately monitor a wide variety of seed types (e.g. both small and large) and a wide variety of seed planting rates (low and high) and any combination thereof which can occur within the wide scope of seed planting. The system calculates an error rate from a set of data, in graph form, representing experimentally determined actual seed rates versus seed rates as would be measured, thus allowing the operator to optimize seed population and distribution by adjusting the speed of the planter apparatus and/or the seed distribution system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 1992
    Date of Patent: June 28, 1994
    Assignee: Micro-Trak Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Semor D. Tofte, Steven W. Vogel, Dennis J. Berning, Thomas K. Hiniker
  • Patent number: 5292029
    Abstract: In a nurse administered medication dispensing system a mobile cart contains a plurality of doctor prescribed medication in accordance with a like plurality of patients scheduled to receive such medication. The medication containers stored in the cart is accessible by the nurse only in response to a patient ID code entered by the nurse into the keyboard of a cart supported microprocessor including a software program responding to the input code energizing mechanical components which obtains the medication from an onboard supply and transfers it to a specified nurse accessible cubicle or which releases secured medication dispensing units on or in the cart and records the time, date and quantity of medication dispensed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 1991
    Date of Patent: March 8, 1994
    Inventor: Walter G. Pearson
  • Patent number: 5267174
    Abstract: A medication delivery device includes a housing containing separate first and second storage locations for holding medication dosages away from access by the user. Associated separate first and second delivery mechanisms permit selective delivery of a medication dose from either the first or second storage locations to the patient. The invention provides a control element that discriminates between the actuation of the first delivery mechanism and the second delivery mechanism, thereby discriminating between the delivery of medication housed in the first and second storage locations. The control element discriminates between different first and second input criteria. In response to the first input criteria but not in response to the second input criteria, the control element actuates the first delivery mechanism. In response to the second input criteria, the control element actuates the second delivery mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 1992
    Date of Patent: November 30, 1993
    Assignee: HealthTech Services Corp.
    Inventors: Stephen B. Kaufman, Aleandro DiGianfilippo, Tamara L. Sager
  • Patent number: 5222855
    Abstract: An automated work center for use in materials handling operations is disclosed. The work center includes a randomly accessible vertically moving temporary storage queue 11 for receiving containers 25 that hold material goods. A fixed loading ramp 20 is arranged to receive containers 20 from an external system and to load the received containers onto the storage queue 11. A work area 5 having a plurality of rotatable work tables 7 provides an gives the operator access to the containers. A delivery system 14 transfers containers between the storage queue 11 and the work tables 7 and a takeaway system 16 transfers containers between the work area and the conveyor network. An automated control system 17 coordinates the delivery of containers between the temporary storage queue 11 and the work area 5. A consolidation queue 18 having a multiplicity of vertically spaced shelfs may be disposed opposite the work tables 7 to facilitate the consolidation of ordered goods.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 1992
    Date of Patent: June 29, 1993
    Assignee: Computer Aided Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Clay Bernard, II, Daniel C. Perry
  • Patent number: 5208762
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for dispensing drugs, wherein a patient's order of one or more prescriptions is automatically filled. Various drugs are stored in three or more filler lines. A vial size is assigned to each line. When a prescription is filled, it is automatically assigned to a line in view of the vial size requirements and processed accordingly. Provisions are made for the inability to fill a prescription or order. Subsequently, all of the patient's prescriptions are collected and made available as a single order.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 1990
    Date of Patent: May 4, 1993
    Assignee: Baxter International Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth A. Charhut, Keith Goodale, Joseph Blechl, Will Skou
  • Patent number: 5159581
    Abstract: A medicine reminder and dispensing apparatus having a plurality of containers arranged in rows and columns in a cabinet, each container including a slidable base plate and a fixed wall, drive apparatus for driving said slidable base plate in each of two directions, a microprocessor to control the dispensing apparatus in operation, an alarm connected to said microprocessor to alert a user that it is time to take or dole out a predetermined dose of medication, push button inputs to identify selected times for dispensing medication, and reset apparatus for resetting the base plates while the containers are resupplied. A top cover of the cabinet can be locked to prevent premature access to medication stored in the cabinet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 1992
    Date of Patent: October 27, 1992
    Inventor: Rita M. Agans
  • Patent number: 5147068
    Abstract: An automated food vending system includes a vending machine having a plurality of stacks and dispenser mechanisms for dispensing standardized food package units, a microwave oven having a code reader located in a predetermined position in an interior cavity of the oven, and the food package units having standardized shapes corresponding to the vending stacks and to the microwave oven cavity. The food packages have a code for controlling the microwave oven printed in a predetermined position which is readable automatically by the code reader when the package unit is inserted in the oven. The dispenser mechanism has a configuration which allows it to be installed in existing vending machines for canned beverages. It may be fromed as a pair of pivotable holding members spaced apart in the widthwise direction of the holding stack, or as a pair of continuous belts spaced apart in the depthwise direction of the holding stack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 1991
    Date of Patent: September 15, 1992
    Assignee: Wright Food Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Christopher B. Wright
  • Patent number: 5126957
    Abstract: A medication delivery device includes a housing containing separate first and second storage locations for holding medication dosages away from access by the user. Associated separate first and second delivery mechanisms permit selective delivery of a medication dose from either the first or second storage locations to the patient. The invention provides a control element that discriminates between the actuation of the first delivery mechanism and the second delivery mechanism, thereby discriminating between the delivery of medication housed in the first and second storage locations. The control element discriminates between different first and second input criteria. In response to the first input criteria but not in response to the second input criteria, the control element actuates the first delivery mechanism. In response to the second input criteria, the control element actuates the second delivery mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 1991
    Date of Patent: June 30, 1992
    Assignee: Health Tech Services Corp.
    Inventors: Stephen B. Kaufman, Aleandro DiGianfilippo, Tamara L. Sager
  • Patent number: 5101359
    Abstract: An automatic discharge system permits the counting and discharge of measured quantities of similar articles. The system includes a set of substantially identical discharge modules arranged in a series. Each discharge module is connected to a counting device which counts a measured quantity of articles and discharges the articles into a container, upon command. Each discharge module also includes a microprocessor, the microprocessors of the discharge modules being identically programmed. Each microprocessor receives inputs from the microprocessors in adjacent modules, anad transmits signals to the adjacent microprocessors, such that signals propagate up and down the series. A central control unit issues a "step" signal which propagates up the series. Each time a microprocessor receives such a "step" signal, it records a "turn". Each microprocessor is programmed to cause its associated counter to dump articles on one or more predetermined "turns".
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 1990
    Date of Patent: March 31, 1992
    Assignee: Moore Push-Pin Company
    Inventor: Barry M. Gross
  • Patent number: RE35743
    Abstract: .?.In a nurse administered medication dispensing system a mobile cart contains a plurality of doctor prescribed medication in accordance with a like plurality of patients scheduled to receive such medication. The medication containers stored in the cart is accessible by the nurse only in response to a patient ID code entered by the nurse into the keyboard of a cart supported microprocessor including a software program responding to the input code energizing mechanical components which obtains the medication from an onboard supply and transfers it to a specified nurse accessible cubicle or which releases secured medication dispensing units on or in the cart and records the time, date and quantity of medication dispensed..!..Iadd.A fully automatic apparatus for dispensing medications in tablet or capsule form for a patient is disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 17, 1998
    Assignee: Pearson Ventures, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Walter G. Pearson