Abstract: There is provided a sticky note supply device that separates an uppermost sticky note from a stacks of sticky note one by one so as to discharge to the outside of the device from a discharge section. The sticky note supply device includes a transport unit that separates the sticky note to discharge the sticky note to the outside of the device from the discharge section, a control unit that controls the drive of the transport unit, and a detecting unit that is provided in the discharge section so as to detect whether the sticky note is present or not. When a next sticky note starts to be transported after the sticky note is completely transported by the transport unit and the detecting unit detects the presence, the control unit prohibits the transport unit from being driven.

Abstract: A portable vital statistics monitoring and medication dispensing system that provides personal healthcare management and daily prescription routines. The medication dispenser and vital statistics monitor combination incorporates a medication dispenser, a blood testing system, and other vital sign monitoring into a portable wireless device with customizable features. The medication dispenser and vital statistics monitor combination has the capability of notifying the user of the correct times to take medication and automatically dispensing the accurate prescription dosage. The medication dispenser and vital statistics monitor combination communicates the patient information using an onboard display, transmits the information to a local or distributed network, or prints/embosses/etches the information onto patient information cards, wristbands, or other information sheets.

Abstract: Disclosed is a system for managing a vending machine using wire and wireless two-way communication, and providing and acquiring various intangible knowledge information items, and a method of managing a vending machine, and providing and acquiring intangible knowledge information using the system.

Abstract: A system for dispensing items comprises trays each adapted to support items to be dispensed. A casing comprises a restocking volume receiving trays with items thereon for subsequent storage. A storage volume accommodates the trays in storage. An outlet is used to dispense any selected items on the trays. An arm displaces trays within the casing, and displaces items from the trays to the outlet. A controller unit receives an identification of each item in the trays when positioned in the restocking volume, and monitors a position of each identified item within the trays in the casing to control the actuation of the arm to dispense items through the outlet as a function of an order entered through the user interface.

Abstract: A printer that prints encrypted information in a document can be the key authority for that document. A document containing encrypted information and a source reference can be printed by a printer associated with a key module. The key module contains the key for decrypting the information. A scanner scanning the document obtains the source reference and the encrypted information. The scanner can use the source reference to send a key request to the printer and the printer can respond with the appropriate key. A decryption module associated with the scanner can use the key to decrypt the information. The decrypted information can be incorporated into a second document that can be electronically stored or printed.

Abstract: A customizable gift card that may be designed using a plurality of design templates that have modifiable fields and layouts. The gift cards may be designated for use at one or more stores based on contract arrangements between the stores and a vendor of the gift card. The gift card may be adapted to be used exclusively at the designated stores. At least one template field of at least a portion of a plurality of design templates is modifiable by a customer based on a vendor based rule set. A user provided photo is printed on the gift card and is selected by the user from either a digital photo album on the Internet, one or more user provided photos inputted via a scanner, or one or more user provided photos stored on a computer-readable medium.

Abstract: A customizable gift card that may be designed using a plurality of design templates that have modifiable fields and layouts. The gift cards may be designated for use at one or more stores based on contract arrangements between the one or more stores and a vendor of the gift card. The gift card may be adapted to be used exclusively at the one or more designated stores. A point of sale terminal such as a kiosk may be used to reduce shelf space and provide a greater variety of gift card design options to a customer.

Abstract: A system for dispensing a plurality of customized doses of pharmaceuticals includes: a housing; a customer interaction station; a customized packaging station configured to selectively package individual doses of medication into customized packaging, the medications being selected responsive to input from the customer input station; and a controller connected to the customer interaction station and the customized packaging station, the controller configured to control the customized packaging based on customer input from the customer interaction station.

Abstract: A pharmaceutical administrative system with a pharmacy and a service center network for preparing and dispensing medication. The pharmacy network prepares orders for medication from various customers for various patients. By retrieving information from a global database in the service center network, the pharmacy network conveys patient, customer and formulary information to users of the pharmacy network. Also, the pharmacy network prepares medication specific labels to identify and verify the contents of the medication. Furthermore, the pharmacy network provides additional safeguards and information, including balancing orders and displaying and/or generating hardcopies of solubility curves, to a health care provider using the pharmacy network with the additional ability to customize the medication.

Abstract: A personalized blister pack (20) for the automated packaging of an individually defined product composition, particularly drugs, of a defined person, particularly a patient, for a defined time period comprises a plurality of receiving compartments (22), each closed by a film (25), for the products of the product composition, wherein the receiving compartments (22) are each associated with a defined usage time within the defined time period and disposed in matrix form, comprising a number of lines for usage days and columns for usage times during the day, and a memory device (50) for storing the usage data of the products of the product composition of the defined person for the defined time period, comprising a device (58) for generating a usage reminder signal as a reminder of a defined product usage time based on the stored usage data.

Abstract: An apparatus and a method for dispensing a luggage recognition label having an RFID or GPS device associated therewith that allows a passenger and/or a passenger carrier to identify and track their luggage during travel, provide access to a secure network for storing customer information and travel information including a luggage inventory and itinerary information, and the ability to purchase travel insurance in association with the luggage recognition label.

Abstract: The invention is a method and apparatus for dispensing an activated electronic monitoring device (EM device), such as a data logger. The invention can activate an EM device and verify activation before dispensing the EM device. The invention comprises a receptacle for storing a plurality of unactivated EM devices, a separator for separating an indivdual EM device, a reader for activating and verifying activation of the EM device, and a sorter for dispensing activated EM devices into an accept container that is readily accessible. EM devices that fail to activate can be dispensed into a reject container. In some embodiments, the apparatus includes a controller that typically comprises a microprocessor having stored instructions. The controller can typically communicate with the EM device via the reader to activate the EM device and verify activation. The controller may also be used to program or write instructions to the EM device.

Abstract: A method for preparing both main label and warning label portions for a container useful in dispensing drugs by a pharmacist in which the main label portion contains specific drug or patient information and the warning label portion contains one or more warnings specific to the drug or patient information.

Abstract: A system and method of prescribing and conveying regulated pharmaceuticals. Prepackaged pharmaceuticals are kept in a vending machine. Upon the completion of a patient's diagnosis, a physician may prescribe a regulated pharmaceutical. The physician enters the prescription into a terminal. The prescription is read by a central processing unit that controls the vending machine. The central processing unit identifies the location of the pharmaceutical in the vending machine and awaits a proper vending code. Once a physician enters a prescription into the system, the physician hands the patient an electronic key card. The key card is encoded with the vending code needed to activate the vending machine. The patient carries the key card to the vending machine. If the code on the key card matches the prescription code previously entered by a physician, the vending machine vends the prepackaged pharmaceutical.

Abstract: The present invention enables relatively easy animation display without requiring a special resource, and facilitates easy generation of the animation. When an image to be displayed as animation is constructed with a background, leg, body and head, these images are distributed as a layer. For each layer, a timing schedule is set with attribute data which includes display update timing and display effects. According to the schedule, display for each layer is updated at the scheduled timing.

Abstract: A vending machine comprises a first product dispensing unit configured for dispensing packaged pizza crust product, a second product dispensing unit configured for dispensing packaged pizza topping product, and an information processing apparatus coupled to the first product dispensing unit and the second dispensing unit. The information processing apparatus is configured for facilitating input and processing of a customer-configured pizza preparation kit order. The first product dispensing unit is a frozen product dispensing unit configured for enabling different types of packaged pizza crust product to be selectively dispensed. The second product dispensing unit is a refrigerated product dispensing unit configured for enabling different types of packaged pizza topping product to be selectively dispensed. The information processing apparatus includes an user interface arrangement, an order processing arrangement and a kit component management arrangement.

Abstract: An automatic prescription drug dispenser including a remote dispenser, a prescription entry system, and a communications network. The remote dispenser transmits and receives information from the communications network and dispenses prescription drugs to the patient. The prescription entry system transmits and receives information from the communications network and provides an input system for the prescriber to electronically enter individual prescriptions for each patient. The communications network coordinates communications between the doctor, insurance carrier, and the remote dispenser. The remote dispenser stores, retrieves, and labels prescription drug and over-the-counter products directly to patients through a remote automated dispenser, a prescription entry system, and a communications network. The remote dispenser transmits and receives information from the communications network and dispenses drugs to the patient.

Abstract: An automatic prescription drug dispenser including a remote dispenser, a prescription entry system, and a communications network. The remote dispenser transmits and receives information from the communications network and dispenses prescription drugs to the patient. The prescription entry system transmits and receives information from the communications network and provides an input system for the doctor to electronically enter individual prescriptions for each patient. The communications network coordinates communications between the doctor, insurance carrier, and the remote dispenser. The remote dispenser stores, retrieves, and labels prescription drug and over-the-counter products directly to patients through a remote automated vending machine, a remote dispenser, a prescription entry system, and a communications network.

Abstract: A system for personalized packaging of prescription medication includes a processing device having a CPU and a user interface. The user interface is configured to receive input data related to at least one type of medication to be packaged, wherein the user interface communicates the input data to the CPU for processing. A dispensing system is in communication with the processing device, wherein the dispensing system is configured to be pre-supplied with the at least one type of medication and to dispense the at least one type of medication based on the input data communicated from the CPU to the dispensing system. Also included in the system is a printing system in communication with the processing device. A printing system is configured to generate a print of instructional data based on the input data communicated from the CPU to the printing system, wherein the print of instructional data includes data correspondingly related to the at least one type of medication dispensed by the dispensing system.

Abstract: A dispensing system and method is used to dispense a bulk product or to mix and to dispense bulk products on site and to price the products according to the quantity and distribution thereof. The dispensing system preferably provides automated merchandising by providing up-to-date product information and by allowing customers to select and purchase one or more bulk products. The dispensing system can be located indoors or outdoors and is preferably designed for self-service and cash less transactions.

Abstract: An automatic prescription drug dispenser including a remote dispenser, a prescription entry system, and a communications network. The remote dispenser transmits and receives information from the communications network and dispenses prescription drugs to the patient. The prescription entry system transmits and receives information from the communications network and provides an input system for the prescriber to electronically enter individual prescriptions for each patient. The communications network coordinates communications between the doctor, insurance carrier, and the remote dispenser. The remote dispenser stores, retrieves, and labels prescription drug and over-the-counter products directly to patients through a remote automated dispenser, a prescription entry system, and a communications network. The remote dispenser transmits and receives information from the communications network and dispenses drugs to the patient.

Abstract: A dispenser for dispensing restricted goods such as pharmaceuticals by an pharmacist to a purchaser with a prescription includes a cabinet containing an inventory storage system, a purchaser transaction module, a reject system and a control system. The inventory storage system includes product storage in rows and columns. The purchaser transaction module including an audio communication link from the dispenser to the pharmacist, a payment transaction system in the dispenser to verify payment for the product and an issue tray in the dispenser that is locked until the pharmacist releases the product to the purchaser. The reject system securely removes product to a reject hopper at any time after the product is held by the product selection device but prior to the pharmacist releasing the product from the issue tray. The control system includes means to enable the pharmacist to view the prescription and the purchaser.

Abstract: A system and method for creating a customized greeting card for a recipient is disclosed. The system includes a computer readable memory, a map database that stores map data pertaining to a plurality of geographic locations. The locations include location-specific indicia. A first processor executable routine obtains map data pertaining to a selected geographic location from a database, and a second processor executable routine displays on a user interface the map data including location-specific indicia for the selected location. A third processor executable routine displays on the user interface an electronic greeting card depicting the selected location, and a fourth processor executable routine enables the user to change the location-specific indicia to a customized indicia to permit the customized indicia to be suitably displayed or presented to a user. The greeting card may be presented to the user electronically or may be printed on a suitable substrate.

Abstract: Computer assisted systems, methods and mediums for filling one or more orders. One embodiment of the present invention is a system that includes an order consolidation station configured to receive at least one bottle containing pills individually counted and/or at least one package containing pharmaceutical products without having been designated for any of the orders when the package was created and/or at least one literature pack optionally including patient specific information. The order consolidation station is further configured to combine automatically the received bottle and/or package and/or literature pack into a container to be sent to a recipient including, for example, mail order pharmacies, wholesalers and/or central fill dealers for subsequent distribution or sale including retailer distribution or sale. The bottle is specifically designated for the order, and the order generally includes at least one prescription for the package.

Abstract: A vending machine comprises a first product dispensing unit configured for dispensing packaged pizza crust product, a second product dispensing unit configured for dispensing packaged pizza topping product, and an information processing apparatus coupled to the first product dispensing unit and the second dispensing unit. The information processing apparatus is configured for facilitating input and processing of a customer-configured pizza preparation kit order. The first product dispensing unit is a frozen product dispensing unit configured for enabling different types of packaged pizza crust product to be selectively dispensed. The second product dispensing unit is a refrigerated product dispensing unit configured for enabling different types of packaged pizza topping product to be selectively dispensed. The information processing apparatus includes an user interface arrangement, an order processing arrangement and a kit component management arrangement.

Abstract: Disclosed is a semi-automatic medicine packaging machine that improves packaging efficiency and speed by supplying an automatic supply unit and prevents supplement and outflow of tablets by an unauthorized person and makes tablets kept and treated more safely. The semi-automatic medicine packaging machine including a medication feed outlet that feeds and discharges medications into a hopper, a sealing unit that seals medications in the hopper by medication envelope(s) on which instruction labels are printed by a printing unit, a controller that controls the overall apparatus, and a button operation unit that inputs a user's operation into the controller includes an upper shelf; an automatic supply unit including a plurality of tablet cassettes established on the upper part of the cassette stands; and a user information input unit that inputs user information into the controller; in which the controller includes a user authentication unit that authenticates a user.

Abstract: When printing apparatuses in a print shop cannot realize print setting shown by downloaded print set information, substitute print setting of a smaller difference degree is proposed to the user or a plurality of print settings are proposed to the user, thereby enabling printed matter to be outputted in accordance with desired setting of the user.

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 system and method for providing pharmaceutical information to a patient is disclosed. The invention includes electronically identifying the pharmaceutical product dispensed to the patient with an identification device and electronically prompting the patient with a message using a first output. The message provides the patient with the opportunity to accept or decline the pharmaceutical information by interacting with an input device. If the patient decides to accept the pharmaceutical information, the pharmaceutical information is provided to the patient through a second output. A computer-based apparatus is also disclosed for providing pharmaceutical information to the patient. The computer-based apparatus includes a central processing unit configured to run an executable software program configured to control the functions of peripheral devices operatively connected to the computer-based apparatus.

Abstract: A vending machine comprises a first product dispensing unit configured for dispensing packaged pizza crust product, a second product dispensing unit configured for dispensing packaged pizza topping product, and an information processing apparatus coupled to the first product dispensing unit and the second dispensing unit. The information processing apparatus is configured for facilitating input and processing of a customer-configured pizza preparation kit order. The first product dispensing unit is a frozen product dispensing unit configured for enabling different types of packaged pizza crust product to be selectively dispensed. The second product dispensing unit is a refrigerated product dispensing unit configured for enabling different types of packaged pizza topping product to be selectively dispensed. The information processing apparatus includes an user interface arrangement, an order processing arrangement and a kit component management arrangement.

Abstract: An apparatus for filling vials comprises a shelving unit defining an array of storage locations. The shelving unit may be an array in an XY plane or one or more carousels. A plurality of storage containers are provided, each removably carried by one of the storage locations. A counting and dispensing unit, a source of vials, a label printer and application unit or units, and an output device are also provided. The output device may take a variety of forms such as an output chute, which is preferably used when a capping unit is provided, an output conveyor, a plurality of output lanes, and an output carousel, which may be a dedicated carousel or a portion of the carousel providing the plurality of storage locations. A computer controlled engagement device provides motion in a Z direction. The engagement device may be comprised of a first stage for engaging the storage containers and a second stage for engaging the vials.

Abstract: A method for preparing both main label and warning label portions for a container useful in dispensing drugs by a pharmacist in which the main label portion contains specific drug or patient information and the warning label portion contains one or more warnings specific to the drug or patient information includes the steps of providing a backing sheet having the main label portion and the warning label portion releasably adhered thereto, printing the drug or patient information on the warning label during only one printing pass, and then affixing both the main label portion and the warning label portion to a drug container.

Abstract: A postage metering system for applying indicia including postage value on mail items, the system including: a keyboard for inputting information; a printer for printing indicia; an accounting module for accounting for postage value applied to mail items; and a security module for requiring a user to input an operating code prior to further operation of the system, the security module being configured to compare the input operating code with at least one stored valid operating code and cause the printer in a printing operation to print an indicium having a zero postage value where the input operating code and any stored operating code do not match and printing of an indicium is requested.

Abstract: A robotic system that includes a remote controlled robot. The robot may include a camera, a monitor and a holonomic platform all attached to a robot housing. The robot may be controlled by a remote control station that also has a camera and a monitor. The remote control station may be linked to a base station that is wirelessly coupled to the robot. The cameras and monitors allow a care giver at the remote location to monitor and care for a patient through the robot. The holonomic platform allows the robot to move about a home or facility to locate and/or follow a patient.

Abstract: Franchising an on-demand wallpaper printing business comprises a number of steps. Franchisees are provided with an on-demand printer. The printer is built into a cabinet in which is located a media path which extends from a media loading area to a printhead and from the printhead to a dispensing slot. The printer has one or more printer input devices which communicate with a processor to capture data regarding one or more customer requirements such as a customer selected pattern, or roll length or width. The franchisee may be provided with patterns in a digital storage medium that can be read by the printer, in lieu of new inventory. This enables the franchisee to print a roll of wallpaper, onto a web of blank media, on demand.

Abstract: 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: This invention relates to an interactive medication cassette with a machine readable and writable information strip that contains information corresponding to the medication in the cassette. The interactive medication cassette holds the medication and couples the corresponding information to the medication. The cassette is designed for use in a medication distribution and inventory system that includes at least one medication dispensing machine having a sensor for reading the information in the strip and updating or altering this information when medication is added to or removed from the cassette. The cassette travels with the medication during the distribution of the medication to a patient, and its information is reported to one or more memory devices or hospital or pharmacy data base during this process. The cassette is filled by a pharmacy dispensing machine holding a bulk container filled with a particular type of medication and a singulator for counting the quantity of medication added to the cassette.

Abstract: An apparatus for providing at least one item of value in cooperation with operation of a companion device delivering at least one first product to a user comprises: (a) a control means for controlling the providing; (b) a providing means for effecting the providing; the providing means being coupled with the control means; and (c) a link with the companion device for effecting the cooperation. The apparatus may further comprise (d) a communication means coupled with the control means for communicating operational information with the apparatus regarding operation of the apparatus; and (e) a memory means coupled with the communication means for storing the operational information. The method comprises the steps of: (a) providing a control means for controlling the providing; (b) providing a providing means coupled with the control means for effecting the providing; and (c) providing a link with the companion device for effecting the cooperation.

Abstract: Computer assisted systems, methods and mediums for filling one or more orders. One embodiment of the present invention is a system that includes an order consolidation station configured to receive at least one bottle containing pills individually counted and/or at least one package containing pharmaceutical products without having been designated for any of the orders when the package was created and/or at least one literature pack optionally including patient specific information. The order consolidation station is further configured to combine automatically the received bottle and/or package and/or literature pack into a container to be sent to a recipient including, for example, mail order pharmacies, wholesalers and/or central fill dealers for subsequent distribution or sale including retailer distribution or sale. The bottle is specifically designated for the order, and the order generally includes at least one prescription for the package.

Abstract: A system for on-demand printing of hazardous material placards, the system comprising: (a) an input device through which a user can input parameters relating to a hazardous material to be transported or stored; (b) a processor configured to determine a hazardous material placard for the hazardous material according to a computerized analysis of the input parameters; and (c) an output device configured to print the determined placard. Preferably, the processor determines the appropriate placard by executing a placard selection program that comprises a plurality of placard selection rules, wherein the placard selection rules define the conditions under which a placard is to be used. Further, the placard selection rules preferably comply with government regulations relating to the shipment and/or storage of hazardous materials. Also, the system may display a menu of placards selectable by the user for printing.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing information that generally includes retrieving or receiving a block of electronic information from a remote information source at a predetermined time. The block of electronic information retrieved from the remote source is stored on a data storage unit. A user interface is provided that is configured to produce a selection signal based upon an input from a user regarding the information intended for purchase by the user. A step of receiving and verifying a payment is performed based upon the selection signal input by the user. Once payment is verified, the electronic information corresponding to the materials being purchased is retrieved from the data storage unit based upon the selection signal. The portion of the block of electronic information selected by the user for purchase is then printed on a medium and dispensed to the user.

Abstract: An automatic prescription drug dispenser including a remote dispenser, a prescription entry system, and a communications network. The remote dispenser transmits and receives information from the communications network and dispenses prescription drugs to the patient. The prescription entry system transmits and receives information from the communications network and provides an input system for the prescriber to electronically enter individual prescriptions for each patient. The communications network coordinates communications between the doctor, insurance carrier, and the remote dispenser. The remote dispenser stores, retrieves, and labels prescription drug and over-the-counter products directly to patients through a remote automated dispenser, a prescription entry system, and a communications network. The remote dispenser transmits and receives information from the communications network and dispenses drugs to the patient.

Abstract: The invention provides a data vending system 10 including the storing data such as digitised music and/or video and/or computer programs on one or more main computer i.e. the data depot 12 and dispensing the data to a uniquely identifiable data carrier 30. The data on the data depot 12 includes a database which maintains owner and/or possessor records for each said data carrier 30, the data being selected from the group including ownership or possession history of the data carrier, personal details of the past and present owner and/or possessor of the data carrier, demographic data about the user/owner of the data carrier, data recorded onto the data carrier at an authorised data dispensing device (either cumulatively or periodically, by title, by artist, etc), data rented and the rental period (either cumulatively or periodically, by title, by artist, etc), the user's normal requirements, the user's payment records, royalties paid to the copyright owner by the user, and favourite data of the user.

Abstract: Computer assisted systems, methods and mediums for filling one or more orders. One embodiment of the present invention is a system that includes an order consolidation station configured to receive at least one bottle containing pills individually counted and/or at least one package containing pharmaceutical products without having been designated for any of the orders when the package was created and/or at least one literature pack optionally including patient specific information. The order consolidation station is further configured to combine automatically the received bottle and/or package and/or literature pack into a container to be sent to a recipient including, for example, mail order pharmacies, wholesalers and/or central fill dealers for subsequent distribution or sale including retailer distribution or sale. The bottle is specifically designated for the order, and the order generally includes at least one prescription for the 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 publication-dispensing apparatus is provided, the kiosk including memory containing one or more publications, a user interface configured to permit a user to select a publication from publications in memory, a processor configured to determine proper payment for a selected publication based on whether the user has a subscription to the selected publication, and a printing device configured to print the selected publication onto a print medium upon receiving proper payment for the selected publication.

Abstract: An automatic prescription drug dispenser including a remote dispenser, a prescription entry system, and a communications network. The remote dispenser transmits and receives information from the communications network and dispenses prescription drugs to the patient. The prescription entry system transmits and receives information from the communications network and provides an input system for the doctor to electronically enter individual prescriptions for each patient. The communications network coordinates communications between the doctor, insurance carrier, and the remote dispenser. The remote dispenser stores, retrieves, and labels prescription drug and over-the-counter products directly to patients through a remote automated vending machine, a remote dispenser, a prescription entry system, and a communications network. The remote dispenser transmits and receives information from the communications network and dispenses prescription drugs to the patient.

Abstract: A publication-dispensing apparatus is provided, the kiosk including memory containing one or more publications, a user interface configured to permit a user to select a publication from publications in memory, a processor configured to determine proper payment for a selected publication based on whether the user has a subscription to the selected publication, and a printing device configured to print the selected publication onto a print medium upon receiving proper payment for the selected publication.

Abstract: A pharmaceutical dispenser system comprising a container configured to store discrete doses of pharmaceuticals and instructional indicia configured to align with each discrete dose of pharmaceutical indicating a time such discrete dose is to be administrated in accordance with a patient-specific therapy regimen.

Abstract: An unmanned, real-time, printed material generation and dispersal system includes a standardized shipping container houses at least one printing module capable of generating printed materials, a controller module for controlling the generation of the printed materials and monitoring status of the printing module, a communications module for communicating with the printing module and transmitting the status to a remote location, and a dispenser for receiving the printed materials so-generated and expelling them from the shipping container.