Data Collection Or Reporting (e.g., Sales, Inventory) Patents (Class 700/236)
  • Publication number: 20140180474
    Abstract: An operating method for vending of goods in automatic vending machines developed to be placed on board of vehicles of public transportation, such as city buses or long distance buses, subway cars, trains, vessels, places and any locations of human busy movement; the replacement of machines or goods through a method for managing the vending including the storage logistics and distribution of goods, and a method for installing and uninstalling the machines of public transportation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2013
    Publication date: June 26, 2014
    Inventor: Jairo Silva SOARES
  • Patent number: 8757435
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method, system and dispensing device for assisting a patient in complying with a medical regimen. The system includes an electronic dispensing device to be used by the patient which comprises a device to obtain information about the regimen. A device registers operation of the dispensing device by the patient taking the medicines. A warning device reminds a patient of the regimen. A medicine packing station packs the medicine within a package in portions to be taken according to the regimen. A database stores information about the regimen. A service center is provided to assist when necessary. A communication network is provided for communication between the dispensing device and the service center and/or between the service center and the patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Assignee: Vitaphone Nederland B.V.
    Inventors: Andreas Bernardus Petrus Van Oort, Marlies Van Dullemen, Noor Doucet-Liem, Annemieke Westerink, Erwin Christiaan Alexander Van Der Star
  • Patent number: 8754769
    Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for determining whether and/or when a patient is taking his or her medication and, when appropriate, providing reminders and/or alerts to the patient to improve adherence to a medication regimen. In some embodiments, a medication container is provided that includes a capacitance sensor for sensing the contents of the medication container (e.g., pill count or quantity of liquid medication). The capacitance sensor may include interleaved or interdigitated electrodes oriented vertically, horizontally, or angularly (e.g., diagonally) relative to an axis of the medication container. Reminders and/or alerts to the patient may be triggered based at least in part on the contents of the medication container, when a cap of the container was last opened and/or closed, the location of the medication container, and/or the container's surroundings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2014
    Assignees: AdhereTech Inc., The Board Of Trustees Of The University Of Alabama, For And On Behalf Of The University Of Alabama In Huntsville
    Inventors: Joshua Stein, John Langhauser, Michael Morena, Emil Jovanov
  • Patent number: 8755932
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention can include systems and methods for facilitating consumer-dispenser interactions. In one embodiment, a product dispenser is provided. The product dispenser can include a reader configured to read a machine readable item. In addition, the product dispenser can include a controller in communication with the reader, and operable to execute a set of instructions to receive information from the machine readable item associated with a consumer via the reader. Moreover, the controller can be further operable to execute a set of instructions to configure at least one characteristic based at least in part on the information from the machine readable item, and dispense a product.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2014
    Assignee: The Coca-Cola Company
    Inventors: Dan Peters, Son V. Tran, David R. Newman, Leonard F. Antao, David O. Slagley, H. Brock Kolls
  • Patent number: 8755933
    Abstract: Systems and methods for dispensing soft goods are provided. A described method includes receiving a soft good supply at a loading zone of a soft good dispensing device, receiving an indication of a desired quantity of the soft good at a processing circuit of the soft good dispensing device, using a dispensing mechanism of the soft good dispensing device to automatically dispense the desired quantity of the soft good from the soft good supply based on a control signal received from the processing circuit, and providing a dispensed quantity of the soft good to a dispensing zone of the soft good dispensing device for user access.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2014
    Assignee: June Tailor, Inc.
    Inventors: Jilene A. Repp, Francis A. Yogerst
  • Patent number: 8751039
    Abstract: Described are systems for providing remote medical therapy to a subject by dispensing one or more medical items from a short-term inventory of medical items. The inventory of medical items is risk profiled based on probability calculation of health or economic risk to a subject, a population, a venue, or a situation in advance of need for the medical items. In some embodiments, the system comprises a digital processing device, an apparatus for dispensing the one or more medical items, and a connector device, with a memory, that facilitates communication between the digital processing device and the dispensing apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Assignee: Remedev, Inc.
    Inventors: John A. Macoviak, Richard L. Macoviak, James J. Macoviak, Espir G. Kahatt
  • Patent number: 8751037
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention can include systems and methods for dispensing consumable products. One embodiment of the invention can provide a product dispenser. The product dispenser can include an ingredient matrix operable to receive a plurality of product ingredients. In addition, the product dispenser can include a controller in communication with the ingredient matrix, and operable to execute a set of instructions to receive product data associated with the plurality of product ingredients. Moreover, the controller can further comprise a set of instructions to track usage of the plurality of product ingredients when at least one product is dispensed. Furthermore, the controller can further comprise a set of instructions to update the product data during or after dispensing of a product or installation of one or more product ingredients in the ingredient matrix.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Assignee: The Coca-Cola Company
    Inventors: Dan Peters, Son V. Tran, David R. Newman, Leonard F. Antao, David O. Slagley, H. Brock Kolls
  • Patent number: 8749359
    Abstract: A tablet holder with an alert system for reminding individuals to take their medications featuring a base with seven compartments. Each compartment has a separate lid, and a base lid covers all the compartment lids. Compartment LEDs are disposed in each compartment lid. A touch screen display, a speaker, a vibrating component, and a microprocessor are each disposed in the base. The microprocessor is connected to a time keeping system that keeps the date and time. The microprocessor can be programmed to be activated at various dates and times. When the microprocessor is activated, the microprocessor activates the LEDs, the speaker, and the vibrating component to alert the user to take his/her medicine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Inventor: Ruta Wilson
  • Publication number: 20140156064
    Abstract: Techniques to deliver multiple medications in a synchronized manner are described. A synchronization engine operative on a processor component may receive a prescription order for a period of days comprised of multiple prescriptions for a single patient. Each prescription may be representative of a medication and include prescription data. The prescriptions may be synchronized to conform to the period of days. A customization engine operative on the processor component may determine a master hours of administration (HOA) schedule for all of the prescriptions in the prescription order over the period of days. The medications may be placed into the appropriate pouches of a single customized package based on the master HOA schedule. The single customized package houses all of the medications for all of the prescriptions and may include one or more pouches for each day in the period. Other embodiments are described and claimed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2013
    Publication date: June 5, 2014
    Inventors: Patricia CRAWFORD, Mark MAGLIONE, Justin TOWLE, Thomas R. GRINNAN, Sandra J. EYERLY, Frederick THOMPSON, Kenneth G. SADLER
  • Patent number: 8744622
    Abstract: A system for information management has a compilation device collecting information particular to a vending device located therein, a PDA useable for receipt, manipulation or inputting information into the compilation device. An activation device triggers the compilation device to prepare it to export or import information to or from the PDA. The compilation device has a power source and activation sensor for activation of thereof and in a dormant state prior to such activation, thereby conserving the energy stored within the power source, and allowing the data compilation device to remain as small as possible. The PDA has operating software which is able to synchronize multiple PDAs to a computer server and is also capable of having route management software for use by field engineers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Assignee: Nova Resolution Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Elliott Porco
  • Patent number: 8744619
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Assignee: InstyMeds Corporation
    Inventor: Ken Rosenblum
  • Patent number: 8744618
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention can include systems and methods for dispensing consumable products. In one embodiment, a system comprising a product dispenser and processor can be provided. The processor can be operable to execute a set of instructions operable to receive a consumer preference to receive a notification associated with a product. The set of instructions can be further operable to determine whether the product is being offered, and based at least in part on the consumer preference, notify the consumer regarding availability of the product from the product dispenser.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Assignee: The Coca-Cola Company
    Inventors: Dan Peters, Son V. Tran, David R. Newman, Leonard F. Antao, David O. Slagley, H. Brock Kolls
  • Patent number: 8744623
    Abstract: A chemical product dispenser includes one or more timing features. The chemical product may include cleaning, sanitizing, disinfecting, or other chemical products typically dispensed using a conventional spray bottle or other chemical product applicator used in the cleaning industry. The timed dispenser includes a timer and one or more indicators that are activated when one or more predetermined periods of time (such as a contact time or cure time) have elapsed. A timed dispenser audit system further monitors and analyzes use of the timed dispensers throughout one or more facilities, and may generate reports based on the analysis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Assignee: Ecolab USA Inc.
    Inventors: Deborah L. Drake, Sherri L. Tischler, Paul R. Kraus
  • Publication number: 20140148945
    Abstract: A pharmaceutical dispensing system includes a frame having first and second opposed sides, a plurality of cells configured to house pharmaceutical pills, and a display on the frame first side. A plurality of dispensing shelves configured to receive filled pill containers are accessible from the second side of the frame for removal of pill containers therein. The pharmaceutical dispensing system includes a processor and memory coupled thereto. A computer program resides in the memory and is executable by the processor for displaying a cell inventory graphical user interface (GUI) within the display. The cell inventory GUI includes a GUI control that is responsive to user activation for displaying replenishment information about one or more of the cells. The computer program is configured to determine a replenish point and replenish quantity for each cell and is configured to adjust the replenish quantity for each cell according to a stock-out risk.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2013
    Publication date: May 29, 2014
    Applicant: Parata Systems, LLC
    Inventors: Paul Joseph Cunningham, Sasha Morris
  • Publication number: 20140148946
    Abstract: This disclosure is directed to a smart sales kiosk, a smart kiosk system and a process for dispensing or ordering one or more target products or samples of the target products. This disclosure is further directed to a kiosk system having a plurality of the sales kiosks connected via wired or wireless connections. The sales kiosks can be particularly useful for dispensing samples of sales products, such as furniture, typically not suitable to dispense at the sales location; or customized products that need to be customized. The sales kiosk can further be useful for ordering sales products. The sale kiosks can provide advantages for seeing and experiencing the sales products even the sale products cannot be directly displayed or dispensed. The kiosk can be modular and can comprise one or more modules.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2014
    Publication date: May 29, 2014
    Inventor: Junfang Zhang
  • Publication number: 20140135979
    Abstract: A money handling system includes a money handling machine that has a money storage unit for storing money, and a money recycling unit for temporarily storing money taken from the exterior of the money handling machine after the money is recognized. The money recycling unit is adapted to feed the money temporarily stored therein to the money storage unit and/or to dispense the temporarily stored money to the exterior of the money handling machine. A wrapped-coin dispensing unit for storing wrapped coins and for dispensing the wrapped coins to the exterior of the money handling machine is also provided. Finally, a central control unit communicates with various components of the money handing machine, while being isolated therefrom.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 26, 2013
    Publication date: May 15, 2014
    Applicant: GLORY LTD.
    Inventor: Yasuhiro MATSUMOTO
  • Patent number: 8725290
    Abstract: A device for storing and dispensing tobacco products includes a housing configured to store tobacco product packages, a tracking system, and an electronic system. The housing may contain a plurality of chambers, each configured to store a different brand of tobacco product packages. The tracking system is configured to track the number of tobacco product packages in each chamber as tobacco product packages are dispensed from the chambers and to include one or more light emitting elements and one or more light detection elements. The electronic system is configured to enable dispensing of the tobacco product packages from the chambers and to store information related to the dispensing of the packages from the chambers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Assignee: Exchange Services, Inc.
    Inventors: John Wesley Templer, Mark Allsup
  • Patent number: 8718818
    Abstract: An apparatus, method, system and use of a least one sensor in a reverse vending machine for empty beverage containers for, on the sensor's detection at least one biometric feature of a person, allowing such a feature to serve as an identifying token for return value due for empty beverage containers delivered by the person to the reverse vending machine. The biometric feature is, at a return value payout point and by using at least one other sensor, redetected and re-recognized as a previously registered feature for payment of the return value in the form of a payout of the return value, credit for the return value or issuance of a lottery ticket with a stake equivalent to the return value. Said biometric feature is selected from at least one of the group consisting of: fingerprints, facial features, eye characteristics, iris features, handprints, palm line patterns, blood vessel patterns, body shape, height, weight, DNA-characteristics and voice spectrum.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Assignee: Tomra Systems ASA
    Inventor: Andreas Nordbryhn
  • Patent number: 8718819
    Abstract: Methods and systems for administering consumable compositions according to a programmed dosing schedule are provided. A method for administering a consumable composition may comprise one or more of the following steps: (a) dispensing a first dose of a consumable composition according to a programmed dosing schedule; and (b) detecting at least one ingestion of the consumable composition. A method for administering a consumable composition may comprise one or more of the following steps: (a) dispensing a first dose of a consumable composition according to a programmed dosing schedule; (b) detecting at least one aspect of the consumable composition; and (c) providing a user notification according to the aspect of the consumable composition. A system for administering a consumable composition may comprise: (a) means for dispensing a first dose of a consumable composition according to a programmed dosing schedule; and (b) means for detecting at least one ingestion of the consumable composition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Assignee: The Invention Science Fund I, LLC
    Inventors: Roderick A. Hyde, Eric C. Leuthardt, Robert W. Lord, Clarence T. Tegreene, Lowell L. Wood, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8718815
    Abstract: An automated warehouse system having an improved cycle efficiency of storing and retrieving articles to and from the automated warehouse system includes a storage station, a retrieval station, a plurality of article storage shelves, a stacker crane, and a system controller. An article is brought to the storage station to be stored and retrieved from the retrieval station. The article storage shelves store articles. The stacker crane can move an article between the storage station, the retrieval station, and the article storage shelves. The system controller keeps track of the amount of storage time articles have been stored and, when it determines that an article has been stored on an article storage shelf in a buffer area for a first predetermined amount of time or longer, the system controller controls the stacker crane such that the stacker crane carries the article from an article storage shelf in the buffer area to an article storage shelf in the first storage area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Assignee: Murata Machinery, Ltd.
    Inventor: Kazunori Shimamura
  • Publication number: 20140121830
    Abstract: A banking system that utilizes metrics in acquiring and processing event data related to financial transaction activity at a plurality of automated banking machines. Automated banking machine include sensors able to detect event data during a transaction. The event data can include transaction data related to the type of transaction, time analysis data related to duration of the transaction, and operational data related to machine components used in carrying out the transaction. The event data for automated banking machines can be obtained, analyzed, and stored. Statistical averages associated with the banking system machines can be determined in real time. The averages allow a respective machine to be compared to other machines with respect to operational efficiency. An alert can be issued concerning a statistical anomaly regarding the respective machine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 21, 2013
    Publication date: May 1, 2014
    Applicant: Diebold Self-Service Systems, division of Diebold, Incorporated
    Inventors: Neil GROMLEY, Dustin CAIRNS, Mike LAWVER, Rodney J. REESE, B. Scott HARROFF
  • Publication number: 20140121829
    Abstract: A point of sale battery distribution system includes a cabinet in which batteries may be stored, a user interface for facilitating selection and purchase of batteries, and doors which may be secured and freed to be opened based upon purchase transactions. Batteries stored in the cabinet may be charged by a charging system until purchase. The charging system may provide one or more charging voltages and regimes, and output of the charging system may be disabled by a control system when a door is open or freed to be open. An inventory management system may detect batteries stored in the cabinet and convey inventory information to remote systems for replenishment of the cabinet based upon purchases.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 16, 2013
    Publication date: May 1, 2014
    Applicant: Johnson Controls Technology Company
    Inventor: Dale A. Gospodarek
  • Patent number: 8712584
    Abstract: A system and method for electronic assistance in dispensing pharmaceuticals, utilizing software, hardware and barcode technology to yield error free, clinically correct, adjudicated prescriptions. The system is adaptive to the preferences of an authorized user, by being configurable on the basis of when and what type of warnings are given in particular circumstances, based on entries in a field, and whether the order can proceed. Additionally, the invention allows for automated and electronically assisted refilling of orders. The invention allows for tracking and monitoring of prescription orders through barcode labeling and scanning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Assignee: Omnicare, Inc.
    Inventor: John P DiMaggio
  • Patent number: 8712587
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method and system that utilizes one or more cassettes or trays that hold medicaments for dispensing. In one embodiment a medicaments container includes control logic configured to enable the medicaments container to operate with an apparatus; control logic configured to determine whether the medicaments container is authorized for operation with the apparatus; and control logic configured to generate an alert if the medicaments container is not authorized for operation with the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Inventors: Michael Handfield, Helene Laliberte
  • Patent number: 8712583
    Abstract: A pill dispensing device includes a base with a top surface and a bottom surface, a transfer tray assembly coupled to the top surface of the base, a controller, and a plurality of vibrating tray assemblies. Each vibrating tray assembly couples to the top surface of the base and includes a pill tray, at least one spring support, a pill tray electric motor, and at least one optical sensor. The pill tray has an open end which is positioned above the transfer tray assembly. The at least one spring support is coupled between the top surface of the base and the pill tray. The pill tray electric motor couples to the pill tray and an offset weight. Each pill tray electric motor electrically couples to the controller. An optical sensor couples to the pill tray.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Assignee: Innovative Dispensing, LLC
    Inventors: Russell Madris, Travis Cochran, Bert Centala
  • Patent number: 8712582
    Abstract: A system for integrating and packaging a plurality of tablet orders is described. The system comprises a graphical user interface configured to receive one or more inputs for a plurality of tablets associated with a particular patient. A software module is configured to compile the inputs into an integrated order. The system further comprises a filling system configured to dispense a dose from the integrated order into a package associated with a time at which the dose is to be consumed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Assignee: Edge Medical Properties, LLC
    Inventors: Robert A. Luciano, Jr., Michael A. Kerr
  • Patent number: 8712585
    Abstract: A vending machine is provided that includes optional modules. A first module includes a plurality of bins, each sized to contain a consumable product, each bin including a pivotable product container. An optional capsule dispensing apparatus is sized to fit on a side of the first module, the optional capsule dispensing apparatus including a plurality of capsules, each containing either a consumable product or a non-consumable product. An optional second module includes a second plurality of bins, each also sized to contain a consumable product, each bin also having a pivotable product container, the optional second module sized to be removeably attachable to the first module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Assignee: Lama Group, LLC
    Inventors: Robert Bruck, Christopher Gerding
  • Patent number: 8712586
    Abstract: A method of dispensing restricted products includes providing: a dispenser containing an inventory of restricted goods and a communication link to an authorized vendor; means to enable the vendor to verify the purchaser as an approved purchaser; an inventory system including storage for products in rows and columns; an identification system that identifies the location of each product by row and column; a product section device enabling verification that the selected product is correct and moves the product to a printing location, a viewing location, and/or an issue tray; a visual viewing means for the vendor to view the product; a payment transaction system to verify payment for the product; at least two collection trays remaining locked until the vendor releases product to the purchaser; a product reject hopper to collect product not approved for collection; and reject system to securely remove product to the reject hopper.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Assignee: Bluepoint International Pty Ltd
    Inventor: John Clive Allinson
  • Publication number: 20140114471
    Abstract: Provided is a medicine-taking management apparatus. The medicine-taking management apparatus includes a preservation unit for preserving a chartula package, a transfer unit including at least one roll for transferring the preserved chartula package, a cutting unit for cutting a chartula of the transferred chartula package, a dispensing hole through which the cut chartula is dispensed from the chartula package to the outside, a storage unit providing a space in which the cut chartula is stored therein, and a path selection unit for controlling a path so that the cut chartula travels to one of the dispensing hole and the storage unit. Even though the medicine is not taken at a fixed medicine-taking time when the medicine-taking time is fixed, the follow-up medicine-taking management may be enabled without separately managing the corresponding chartula by the user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2013
    Publication date: April 24, 2014
    Applicant: JVM CO., Ltd.
    Inventor: Jun Ho KIM
  • Patent number: 8706291
    Abstract: The invention relates to a modular automated tool dispenser comprising at least one tool delivery module with at least one tool compartment containing a plurality of tools that are combined to form tool classes and with a plurality of tool conveying devices, each device being associated with one of the tool classes and conveying tools of one class to a tool delivery point. Each tool class is defined by the tool type, tool size and/or the tool weight as a tool parameter. The dispenser also comprises a tool selection device for selecting the desired tool class and the number of tools to be delivered and for activating the tool conveying device that is associated with the selected tool class.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Assignee: Guehring OHG
    Inventors: Hans Bürger, Steffen Klaus Lang
  • Publication number: 20140107836
    Abstract: In an example embodiment, an automated banking machine can cause financial transfers responsive to data read from data bearing records. The machine includes a card reader that can read from user cards, card data which corresponds to financial accounts. The machine can operate responsive to the read card data to carry out transactions that transfer and/or allocate funds between accounts. The machine can provide users a transaction receipt. The machine includes a cash dispenser that can dispense cash to authorized users. Value of dispensed cash can be assessed to an account which corresponds to the read card data. The machine is equipped with sensing devices strategically positioned adjacent to machine components. The sensing devices enable the machine to automatically detect servicing activities performed on the machine. The machine is operable to send information corresponding to detected service activity to a service data-collecting computer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 8, 2013
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Applicant: Diebold Self Service Systems, division of Diebold, Incorporated
    Inventors: Tim CREWS, Grant THORNBERRY
  • Patent number: 8700208
    Abstract: Provided is a rotary type tablet dispenser in which drugs can move along a guide track. The tablet dispenser includes a main body having a space part in which tablets are accommodated and including a guide track formed upward from a bottom part along an inner wall in a spiral shape to guide movement of the tablets accommodated in the space part, a vibration part configured to vibrate the main body to move the tablets accommodated in the space part of the main body upward along the guide track, and a tablet conveyance assisting member configured to move along the guide track and convey some of the tablets which cannot be conveyed along the guide track to an upper part of the main body. Accordingly, the tablets can be smoothly conveyed along the guide track by the tablet conveyance assisting member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: Cretem Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Ho-Yeon Kim
  • Patent number: 8700211
    Abstract: A controlled access pharmaceutical storage cabinet has at least one pull-out drawer that is divided into a number of locked compartments, arranged in rows. A slide bar lock is positioned between rows of the compartments, and has a series of slots along each edge which align with lock pins on hinged lids or covers for the compartments. Only one compartment can be opened at a time. A gear-motor is provided for each slide bar to move the slide bar to a position for access to a given compartment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: S & S X-Ray Products, Inc
    Inventor: Norman A. Shoenfeld
  • Patent number: 8700212
    Abstract: A medication dispenser assembly provides access to medication to promote compliance with a prescribed medication schedule. The assembly includes a housing having a bottom, a top, and a perimeter wall extending from the bottom to the top. Apertures extend through the top. A plurality of vertically aligned bays is positioned in the housing with each bay having an associated access opening extending through the perimeter wall. A plurality of trays each have a plurality of compartments. An interior space of each compartment is accessible through a top of each compartment. Each tray is insertable into a selectable one of the bays through the associated access opening. The compartments of an uppermost one of the trays are accessible through the apertures in the top of the housing. A plurality of doors is coupled to the top of the housing with each door covering an associated one of the apertures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Inventors: Dawn Bruno, Diane Ives
  • Publication number: 20140100692
    Abstract: A method of processing a transaction includes receiving a site location code. Site configuration information corresponding to the received site location code is received from a database. That information includes more product record(s), each corresponding to a reservable product or a non-reservable product. A selection of one or more of the product records in the retrieved information is received. If any selected product record corresponds to a reservable product, a reservation command is produced. That command requests reservation of selected reservable product(s). A method of selecting a product includes receiving a location input and determining a site location code with it. The site location code is transmitted and one or more product records are received. Representations of one or more of the received product records are presented and a selection of products is received. An indication of the selection is transmitted.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2013
    Publication date: April 10, 2014
    Applicant: Dresser, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas Sherfey Chittenden, JR., Paul Matthew Kern, Bradford Ian Loewy, Sethuraman Subramanian
  • Patent number: 8694156
    Abstract: An apparatus and computer program product for managing paper consumption. Responsive to dispensing a first amount of paper from a set of paper dispensers in which the first amount of paper is dispensed for an account, the set of paper dispensers updates the account based on the first amount of paper dispensed. Responsive to receiving a second amount of paper at a set of paper disposers in which the second amount of paper is received for the account, the set of disposers updates the account based on the second amount of paper received.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2014
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Ravi Nallappan, Thierry P. R. Supplisson, Wee Siang Yeap
  • Patent number: 8676376
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention include systems and methods of dispensing control for a product dispenser. In one embodiment, a system or product dispenser can be provided. The system or product dispenser can include a plurality of beverage ingredient sources comprising a respective beverage ingredient, a plurality of beverage supply lines in respective communication with the plurality of ingredient sources, at least one pump in communication with the plurality of beverage supply lines, and a controller in communication with the at least one pump and operable to execute a set of instructions. The set of instructions can be operable to store data associated with a prior poured beverage, provide a command for a user to dispense the prior poured beverage in a subsequent pour, and after selection of the command, based at least in part on the data associated with a prior poured beverage, dispense a subsequent beverage similar to the prior poured beverage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2014
    Assignee: The Coca-Cola Company
    Inventors: Daniel S. Quartarone, Erika Gomez
  • Publication number: 20140074530
    Abstract: A computer system obtains monetary item deposit information and reader failure information from the money handling device and generates data that accumulates to represent an historical pattern of a ratio of a number of deposited monetary items (e.g., deposited checks) to reader failure incidents. The transaction computer then generates a service indicator that is indicative of servicing the money handling device based on the pattern. The transaction computer may project the ratio to obtain a projected ratio at a subsequent (future) time and may track the ratio to determine whether the ratio is trending differently from the ratio.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 7, 2012
    Publication date: March 13, 2014
    Applicant: BANK OF AMERICA
    Inventor: Dion Lee BELLAMY
  • Patent number: 8670864
    Abstract: A dynamic refill level is used for determining medication refill requirements for a medication at a medication dispensing apparatus. When a medication refill report process for a medication dispensing apparatus is triggered, a quantity of medication likely needed to fulfill orders for a medication from the medication dispensing apparatus until a next scheduled refill is determined. A dynamic refill level is set for the medication based on the quantity of medication likely needed. A current count for the medication in the medication dispensing apparatus is compared against the dynamic refill level. If the current count satisfies the dynamic refill level, there is no need to refill the medication. However, if the current count does not satisfy the dynamic refill level, there is a need to refill the medication.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2014
    Assignee: Cerner Innovation, Inc.
    Inventors: Todd Reed Henderson, Mark David Gromowsky
  • Publication number: 20140067113
    Abstract: A product dispenser includes a housing configured to receive a supply of product, a dispensing mechanism disposed and configured to dispense the product, and a controller operably coupled to the dispensing mechanism. The controller includes a processer responsive to executable instructions which when executed by the processor facilitates: recording of usage data associated with the product; calculation of a usage rate of the product; and, prediction of at least one of a depletion date of the product, a time to depletion of the product, a time to near-depletion of the product, and a near-depletion date of the product.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2013
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: Georgia-Pacific Consumer Products LP
    Inventors: Gary N. Petersen, Craig D. Yardley
  • Patent number: 8666539
    Abstract: A method, system and apparatus for controlling and tracking patient access to medicaments. A patient is provided with medication in locked pill containers that must be unlocked with an access code before the patient can access a limited quantity of medication in each container. Thus the patient is forced to go through an interactive session periodically with a master system, via a communicative intermediary, in order to obtain a valid passcode for each batch of medications and follow a treatment regimen. The patient may be assessed during each interaction with the master system. That assessment can include various questions, including questions about status codes that may optionally be displayed on each medication container. These status codes may optionally encode detail about the patient's pattern of accessing medication. The general rate of medication usage can also be deduced by the rate at which the patient contacts the master system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Assignee: Medicasafe, Inc.
    Inventor: Matthew J. Ervin
  • Patent number: 8666542
    Abstract: One aspect of the present invention provides a multi-channel controller that can control a plurality of fuel pump devices, with each fuel pump device having its own dedicated communications channel. Accordingly, aspects of the present invention enable existing wiring and fuel pump devices to be preserved while turning an existing fuel pump device installation into a network of may point-to-point networks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Assignee: NCR Corporation
    Inventors: Charles Edward Maloy Durham, Michael C. Finley, Bisser G. Paskalev, Jason T. Pastor
  • Patent number: 8666543
    Abstract: A pill dispenser for dispensing pills of various sizes includes a pill storage section, a dispensing section located at a lower end of the storage section, an optical sensor, a memory and a controller. The dispensing section includes a device for adjusting a variable size cavity configured to adjust to various pill sizes. The controller adjusts the variable size cavity of the dispensing section depending on the individual pill specifications, and determines if the optical sensor has sensed presence of the pill to be dispensed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Assignee: DoseSmart, Inc.
    Inventors: David MacVittie, William F. King, IV
  • Publication number: 20140046482
    Abstract: A cabinet system for securely storing items includes a cabinet housing, a controller, and at least one drawer unit. The cabinet housing has a locking mechanism, and the controller is in communication with the cabinet housing and configured to operate the locking mechanism. The drawer unit is designed to be releasably locked at least partially within the cabinet housing by the locking mechanism, and slidable within a portion of the cabinet housing when released by the locking mechanism. The drawer unit includes at least one storage compartment, a cover, memory, and a power source. The storage compartment is configured to store at least one item therein. The cover is movable to an open configuration and a closed configuration. When the cover is in the closed configuration, the cover limits access to the item of the storage compartment. The memory is powered by the power source and is configured to store data associated with a movement of the cover.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2013
    Publication date: February 13, 2014
    Applicant: AutoMed Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: James A. Michael
  • Publication number: 20140046481
    Abstract: A system for monitoring inventory for scratch-off lottery tickets to simplify tracking inventory and aid in theft prevention. A computing device communicates with lockable metal ticket dispensers to maintain real-time inventory of product and display product inventory on the product dispensers. Dispensers log ticket inventory information and the identity of users associated with ticket dispensing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 12, 2013
    Publication date: February 13, 2014
    Inventors: Michael Siciliano, Michele P. Burns
  • Patent number: 8646650
    Abstract: Dispensing systems and methods are disclosed that provide controlled advancement of product and provide controlled access to product stored within the system. Embodiments include a product pushing device having a track and a pusher that urges product stored on the track forward. Certain embodiments include mechanisms to limit the forward progression of the pusher along the track, such as a brake mechanism, and certain embodiments include mechanisms to block access to product located on the track. Some embodiments include mechanisms for providing a time delay in between the vending of products.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Rock-Tenn Shared Services, LLC
    Inventors: Thomas A. Lockwood, Roger K. Miller
  • Publication number: 20140005825
    Abstract: The system for obtain and/or use of goods and/or services in controlled way typically comprises a plurality of electronic user apparatus (AU), at least one group of electronic service apparatuses (AS), a management computer (EG), at least one electronic control apparatus (AC), and frequently a group of control computers (EC); the electronic user apparatus (AU) stores credits (CC) already purchased, for goods and/or services and the relevant usage (CU), as and when these are obtained and/or used.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 20, 2012
    Publication date: January 2, 2014
    Inventors: Luigi Maisto, Giuseppe Di Marco
  • Patent number: 8610536
    Abstract: Methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer programs encoded on a computer storage medium, for control of beverage dispensing. In one aspect, authorization data specifying that a beverage dispensing node is authorized to be activated are received. Activation data that request activation of the node are also received, where activation of the node causes a valve that controls flow of fluid to a beverage dispenser to be opened. A determination is made that the activation data are associated with a user identifier for an enabled user, where an enabled user is a user that has been enabled to activate the node. In response to receipt of the authorization data and the activation data a valve that controls flow of fluid to the beverage dispenser is opened. Data (e.g., de-authorization or de-activation data) specifying that an activated beverage dispensing apparatus be de-activated can also be received. In response to receipt of the data, the valve can be closed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Assignee: Table Tap, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Jeffrey Isaac Libby, Jeffrey Lin Portman, Jr., Andrew Hill Adams, Howard Lott Paulk
  • Patent number: 8610574
    Abstract: An item storage facility that includes a resident programmable subcontroller, at least one stand, a one circuit board having a plurality of elongated openings therein supported on the stand, and a plurality of connectors resident on the circuit board and in communication with the subcontroller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Inventor: Gerald Isaac Kestenbaum
  • Publication number: 20130331983
    Abstract: A method of administering medication. Medication is stored in a plurality of drawers wherein each of the plurality of drawers includes a drawer electrical connector, a medication conveyor, and a non-volatile read/write memory to store data about the drawer. A drawer of the plurality of drawers is inserted into a receptacle of a housing, wherein the receptacle is one of a plurality of receptacles, and the housing also includes a plurality of housing electrical connectors corresponding to the plurality of receptacles, wherein one of the housing electrical connectors is coupled to the electrical connector of the drawer when the drawer is inserted in the receptacle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 5, 2013
    Publication date: December 12, 2013
    Inventors: John Todd Barrett, Fred P. Schoville