Abstract: The present invention is to provide a multistage ordering system for a fueling environment. The system may include a fuel dispenser having an order entry interface and associated first remote communications electronics adapted to communicate with a remote communications unit associated with the customer. An order receipt position apart from the fuel dispenser is provided and includes a second remote communications electronics adapted to communicate with a remote communications unit, a receipt position output indicating the customer who placed the order is at the order receipt location, and an intermediate location output indicating the customer is proximate said intermediate locating position. An intermediate locating position located along the path of travel between the fuel dispenser and the order receipt position is also provided. The intermediate locating position has a third remote communication electronics adapted to communicate with the remote communications unit.

Abstract: A beverage dispensing system includes a beverage dispenser which forms and dispenses a beverage and a processor for monitoring the beverage dispenser. The beverage dispenser operates under various parameters including a first parameter that is indicative of the quality of the beverage to be dispensed and a second parameter that is indicative as to when routine maintenance is to be scheduled. The processor monitors the various parameters under which the beverage dispenser operates and determines whether the first parameter is outside of a predetermined range. If the first parameter is outside the predetermined range, the processor sends a signal regarding a request for immediate repair service. The second parameter is also monitored and the routine maintenance is scheduled based thereon.

Abstract: A system and method for controlling an automated fueling station having a plurality of fuel dispensers that accepting payment from a customer and dispense fuel. The system may perform consumer card authorizations utilizing a remote host server or a local database. A plurality of dispenser controllers are located at the fueling station, and each of the controllers is associated with and controls one of the dispensers. Each of the dispenser controllers includes a network connection to the server or local database for accessing consumer card authorization information. A failure of a single dispenser controller affects only the fuel dispenser associated with the failed controller. In another embodiment, the dispenser controllers are connected to the fuel dispensers through an Internet Protocol (IP)-based network that enables any controller to control any dispenser or combination of dispensers.

Abstract: An item delivery and retrieval system including a storage subsystem and a computer subsystem. The storage subsystem includes a secure enclosure having an item storage carousel including internal controller apparatus. The computer subsystem is embodied in internet web page based customized application software for implementing an application interface of selectively configurable ActiveX controls for providing user access, such as an employee of a delivery service company and/or a customer of the delivery service company and customer access to one or more storage bins located behind a set of normally closed doors, for providing access control to the bins, and for managing the location of the items in the storage subsystem. The doors are opened when proper identification is provided by the customer so as to permit retrieval of items located in specifically designated bin(s) or to return items thereto.

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: An object of the present invention is to perform replacement of parts of a substrate processing apparatus more rapidly than that by the prior art. The present invention is a substrate processing apparatus constituted of, a plurality of component parts for performing predetermined processing for a substrate, identification marks being attached to the respective component parts, the apparatus including: a storage unit for storing part information on each of the component parts necessary when placing an order for a component part, in correspondence with the identification mark; an input unit for inputting an identification mark of a component part to be ordered; and a display unit for displaying the part information in the storage unit corresponding to the inputted identification mark.

Abstract: A system for controlling one or more vending machines each of which has an associated module which can send and receive radio frequency signals, the system including a central data collection device which includes a device for sending radio frequency signals which can be intercepted by and used to control the operation of a selected one or more of the vending machines, each vending machine having elements for using the radio frequency signals it receives from the central data collection device to vend products selected by a customer, the central collection device includes a mechanism for determining the amount of deposits or credit entry in excess of the selected vends for returning this excess deposits or credit entry to the customer based on the amount of credit or deposits entered and the cost of the products selected to be vended by the vending machines.

Abstract: A system and method is disclosed for managing, i.e., control and monitoring, processes associated with a group of utility devices. The utility devices in the group may be of the same or different types of devices. For example, one or all of the utility devices in the group may be a warewashing machine. Regardless of type, each utility device in the group is provided an agent control unit, which is a controller responsible for locally overseeing operation of the various processes performed by each utility device. A master control unit provides a field person with control over and the ability to monitor processes performed by all utility devices in the group by providing a single device operable to communicate with the agent control units associated with the utility devices.

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

Abstract: In a management system for vending machines, comprising a plurality of vending machines and a host computer being connected to those vending machines via a network and enabled to manage each of those vending machines in a concentrated manner, the host computer can be accessed from a portable communication terminal via another network.

Abstract: The present invention provides an efficient system for providing vending information from vending machines to a central processing system. Difference indicia representing changes in vending information from a previous update is sent to the central processing system from a vending machine. The difference indicia provides sufficient information for the central processing system to update the data kept at the central processing system to reflect new vending information. Preferably, reference vending data is kept at the vending machine and at the central processing system. New vending data is compared with the reference vending data to identify differences between the new vending data and the reference vending data. These differences are used to generate the difference indicia sent to the central processing system. Upon receipt by the central processing system, the difference indicia is used to modify the reference vending data stored at the central processing system to reflect the new vending data.

Abstract: The present invention is a beverage distribution and dispensing system and method for distributing drinks such as soda, juice and punch, to a home or business and which involves a computerized system which enables users to dispense such drinks from their refrigerator. The computerized system monitors its own supply levels and, when necessary, automatically orders and delivers drink supplies and CO2 gas supplies. In addition, the computerized system automatically detects dispensing problems and orders and arranges for repair service.

Abstract: A sortation system comprises a plurality of transport units (32, 33) connected end to end to form a continuous train and mounted for movement along a track defining at intervals alongs its length destination ports at which items carried by the transport units may be discharged under the control of a central control system (41). The central control system (41) comprises a radio frequency transmitter device (39) through which control signals to the continuous train (32, 33) are transmitted and the continuous train (32, 33) comprises a radio frequency receiver device (39) for receiving the transmitted control signals. The radio frequency transmitter device (39) is connected to a leaky feed aerial (38) which extends the length of the track.

Abstract: An item delivery and retrieval system including a storage subsystem and a computer subsystem. The storage subsystem includes a secure enclosure having an item storage carousel including internal controller apparatus. The computer subsystem is embodied in internet web page based customized application software for implementing an application interface of selectively configurable ActiveX controls for providing user access, such as an employee of a delivery service company and/or a customer of the delivery service company and customer access to one or more storage bins located behind a set of normally closed doors, for providing access control to the bins, and for managing the location of the items in the storage subsystem. The doors are opened when proper identification is provided by the customer so as to permit retrieval of items located in specifically designated bin(s) or to return items thereto.

Abstract: A vending machine is disclosed that has one or more compartments with a mechanism for dispensing a content of a compartment upon receipt of a payment. A receptacle can accept an item, from a member of the public, as content into an empty compartment and identify the item accepted, such as with a barcode label. The vending machine can also include a mechanism that will connect it over a network, such as the Internet, to a computing device. An appraised value of the identified item can be received over the communication network and displayed in association with the compartment containing the item. The item can be dispensed from the vending machine in response to receiving predetermined sales amount or upon specific instruction from an authorized individual. A searchable database of information relating to buyers, sellers, items and other sales related information can also be associated with the vending machine.

Abstract: A fraud detection system within a fuel dispenser includes the ability to measure the amount of fuel dispensed through the fuel dispenser. The measurement is compared to a value independently created representing what the amount of fuel dispensed should approximate. If the values are not comparable, an alarm may be generated to indicate that the fuel dispenser has been modified to perpetrate fraud upon the customers.

Abstract: The invention relates to an interactive fuel dispenser system having a plurality of fuel dispensers operating in conjunction with a local server. Each dispenser generally has two fueling positions, each with a graphical user interface through which a customer interacts. In contrast with the recent trend in turning fuel dispensers into super computers, applicants' provide a dispenser architecture that need only be sufficient to establish interactivity with a server to create multimedia applications and carry out POS functions with a browser interface. Each fueling position acts as a client of a local server at the fuel station store. In the preferred embodiment, each fueling position client also may access remote servers connected to the same network in which the fueling position clients and the local server are connected. Preferably, this network is or is connected to the Worldwide Web of the Internet.

Abstract: According to a control device for automatic vending machine of the invention, a manufacturer discriminating code and a version of control program corresponding to the manufacturing discriminating code are stored in each of terminal control units 2, 3, 4, 5 in advance, and are communicated to a main control unit 1 in first communicating operation after the terminal control unit is exchanged or newly installed. Based on the manufacturing discriminating code and the version of control program, the main control unit 1 inspects a memory 1A installed in the main control unit, a memory card 7 inserted in an expanding slot 6, and a management computer 10 which is capable of communication, in this order, and obtains suitable control programs from them. Where the terminal control unit is exchanged or newly installed, the control program of the main control unit is automatically renewed to reduce time and operation which have been much spent in conventional renewal and to protect operation error therefor.

Abstract: A system and method for the rapid configuration and connection of a backup controller in a distributed data network such as an automated fuel distribution network. Each service-station site in the network has a site controller that supervises operations of the site components, such as the fuel dispenser and credit-card reader, communicating with them through an on-site router, or hub. The fuel-distribution site also communicates with the central network controller through the same hub. In the event of a site-controller outage, one of several spare controllers, usually co-located with the network controller, is loaded and configured to function as the site controller. It is then placed in communication with the site components via a data-network connection, such as through the Internet. The hub switches communications protocols from serial data to packets suitable for Internet communications.

Abstract: Polishing slurry is transported via piping to flow into the closed loop control system. First, the polishing slurry flows into the ultrasonic concentration detector. Original data of the polishing slurry that is determined by means of ultrasonic concentration detector is a fluid velocity at that time. This determined value can be converted into weight percent concentration at that time by memory data table. The converted data of weight percent concentration will be transmitted into program logic controller (PLC), and the data of liquid level volume in the distribution tank will be transmitted into program logic controller at present. The program logic controller will then analyze whether the quantity of oxidant is sufficient. If the quantity of oxidant does not reach the required criterion, the program logic controller will control the analog valve to transmit a supplementary quantity of oxidant into the distribution tank via the analog valve and piping.

Abstract: A computerized management system which is administrated with the use of a computer network linked by modem or other communication means, comprising a server and its database, administration and communication software; vending machines equipped with computer systems allowing for remote inventory management and methods to put products on the market which are offered via a vending machine including medical or other supplies.

Abstract: A mobile food dispenser includes a shell, a controller, at least one drive motor for moving the dispenser across a surface in response to direction from the controller, at least one sensor configured to detect the presence of an animal, and at least one compartment including a hatch mechanism for controlling an animal's access to the interior of the compartment, wherein the hatch mechanism is actuated by the controller, and wherein the controller is configured to move the dispenser and actuate the hatch mechanism to stimulate an animal, in response to a detected presence of the animal.

Abstract: A system (128) for distributing at least one item from a set of media content items is disclosed. The system comprises the set of media content items, which can be warehoused in a vending machine (112) or in a remote server (524). The system further comprises a portable storage device (100) having at least one user selectable icon (104) and an associated reference pointer to a corresponding media content item in the set. Also, the system comprises the vending machine (112), which is responsive to a signal from the portable storage device (100), the signal being dependent upon a user selection of the icon (104). The vending machine is capable of locating the corresponding media content item, and reproducing the item on an output medium (118).

Abstract: A control system is disclosed for an agricultural implement, such as an agricultural sprayer, used to dispense a product to the ground wherein the dispensing units for the product are provided with control valves that can reduce the flow rate of product through selected dispensing units to zero. By controlling the rate of flow through the dispensing units, overlap of the application of the product to the ground can be substantially eliminated. In alternative embodiments of the invention, the control mechanism can receive data from a remote source, such as a central controller or another implement operating in the field, to define where the product needs to be applied to the ground. The application of the product can also be controlled through or in conjunction with a prescription map.

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.

Abstract: A data processing system is used to manage and track use of chemical product in a washing machine. A detergent dispenser distributes the chemical products (e.g., detergent, rinse agent, and bleach) to the washing machine. The dispenser includes a monitor that detects dispenser data based on distribution of the chemical product by the dispenser. A database is coupled to the dispenser and stores an account identifier and an alignment identifier in association with the dispenser data of the dispenser. The database further stores corporate data in association with the dispenser data, the account identifier, and the alignment identifier. An analysis application analyzes the dispenser data in relation with the corporate data to characterize use of the chemical product in the chemical application system and provide a feedback loop. The analysis application can limit its analysis to data associated with a given account identifier or a given alignment identifier.

Abstract: Control system for automatic vending machines, especially applicable to automatic vending machines, in such a way that the system comprises a central server (1) connected to Internet (4), to which the associated operators or owners (2) of the automatic vending machines (3) to be controlled may have access. The automatic vending machines are provided with a public telephone, through computer equipment, the central server including equipment for the connection in real time or cyclical connection with each machine, data processing equipment and equipment for the management and control of the data of each machine, means to facilitate access to the data of each machine by the operators or owners associated to their corresponding machines and equipment to receive direct information from the machines concerning their operation.

Abstract: When a legitimate recipient of a package or tenant loses a card issued to him or her for unlocking a particular locker of a locker cabinet, there is a problem that he or she cannot unlock the locker to open the same and pick up a package of merchandise deposited in the locker. An unlock system of a particular locker wherein a person who desires to unlock a particular locker makes contact with a control center to that effect through a communication line such that the control center authenticates personal identification of the person by calling said person at home, and the control center accesses a memory of the locker through the communication line to confirm that said locker is deposited with a package of merchandise therein and then, the control center unlocks the locker through the communication line.

Abstract: A control system is disclosed for an agricultural implement, such as an agricultural sprayer, used to dispense a product to the ground wherein the dispensing units for the product are provided with control valves that can reduce the flow rate of product through selected dispensing units to zero. By controlling the rate of flow through the dispensing units, overlap of the application of the product to the ground can be substantially eliminated. In alternative embodiments of the invention, the control mechanism can receive data from a remote source, such as a central controller or another implement operating in the field, to define where the product needs to be applied to the ground. The application of the product can also be controlled through or in conjunction with a prescription map.

Abstract: There is provided a system for remotely monitoring coin-operated machines. Data from the machines is collected and transmitted by the machine to a remote server. In alternate embodiments, several machines may be interconnected via a LAN to a local CPU which transmits data to the remote server, typically using the internet. The combination of one or more remote machines and the central monitoring site form a Virtual Private Network (VPN). An optional feature allows for e-mail or other type of alert messages to be sent from the remote server in response to the identification of one or more predetermined events for which a customer should immediately be notified. Browse and query tools working against a database of machine information are provided so that authorized customers or other interested parties may view data for individual or groups of coin-operated machines by means of a web page accessed via the internet.

Abstract: An improved loss-in-weight feeder, and methods for its use, having a material delivery system, a weight-sensing device for material input, a mass flow control mechanism which adjusts flow to a designated rate in response to changes in weight units of material per time or total weight being processed, and a discharge outlet, wherein the improvement comprises a discharge pressure compensator flexibly connected to the discharge outlet, said feeder being especially advantageous when discharging into nonambient pressure systems to improve reliability in performance, feed rate accuracy, and minimize feeder disturbances, allowing tight control and reduced variability of feed rates are disclosed.

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

Abstract: Management of move requests from a factory system to an automated handling system (AMHS) is provided. In one embodiment, a method and system is provided which includes receiving a move request from the factory system and selectively passing the move request to the AMHS based on a comparison of the move request with one or more conditions of the AMHS. The move request may be selectively passed to the AMHS by, for example, passing the move request to the AMHS without modification, changing a destination tool identified in the move request and/or delaying the move request, or canceling the move request. By selectively passing the move request based on conditions of the AMHS, move requests can more efficiently be managed and the throughput of the automated material handling system can be increased.

Abstract: The multimedia and scent storage medium described herein comprises a multimedia storage region for storing multimedia information; a scent storage region for storing multiple scents; scent identification information for identifying which scents are stored in the scent storage region; and scent recovery information stored in the multimedia storage region for sequencing recovery of scents stored in the scent storage region to coincide with audio and/or video information stored in the multimedia region. The integrated system described herein comprises a multimedia and scent storage medium and a multimedia player and scent recovery system for use in conjunction with the multimedia and scent-bearing medium.

Abstract: User interface systems access media data stored in a database through a server that presents to the interface a selection menu for selecting media data. Upon selection of media data the server accesses the data from the database and transmits it to an in-room system. The media data may be transmitted by downloading the data to an intermediate system, playing the data at the intermediate system and outputting the data to the in-room system through a communications line. The media data may also be transmitted by streaming the data to the in-room system through a communications line. The server may present to the in-room system a purchase menu through which media data may be purchased, an activation menu through which communication between the in-room system and the server may be established for a fixed period of time and a radio menu through which programmed media-data channels may be accessed.

Abstract: A system, apparatus and method for remotely dispensing items includes a controller and at least one remote dispenser. The controller includes an interface and a processor circuit. The interface receives information relating to a user and for receive from the user a request for a requested item having an item id. The processor circuit is in communication with the interface and is configured to associate a user id with the requested item, identify the at least one remotely located dispenser operable to dispense the requested item in response to the information relating to the user, and communicate the user id and the item id to the at least one remotely located dispenser when the requested item is available at the remotely located dispenser to permit the requested item to be retrieved from the at least one remotely located dispenser by the user.

Abstract: A method for centralized mass processing of substitutable, good-holding magazines used in conjunction with computer-controlled vending machines. A memory-chip-mounting smart-card is used, not only to enter into the machines the magazine location and price of the various goods, but also to carry a sales transaction record of the replaced magazine, thus avoiding the need for magazine locking mechanisms and other security measures.

Abstract: User interface systems gain access to media data stored in a database for a predetermined amount of time. Access is gained through a server that presents to the interface a selection menu for selecting media data. Upon selection of media data the server accesses the data from the database and transmits it to the user interface. The server also presents to the user interface a content history menu by which ancillary data associated with the content played by the system during the predetermined time is presented. The ancillary data may include the title of the content, the artist of the content, the availability of the content for purchase and its price, the title of one or more compilations, e.g., CDs, on which the content is contained and the availability of the compilations/CD for purchase and the price.

Abstract: A vending machine is disclosed that has one or more compartments with a mechanism for dispensing a content of a compartment upon receipt of a payment. A receptacle can accept an item, from a member of the public, as content into an empty compartment and identify the item accepted, such as with a barcode label. The vending machine can also include a mechanism that will connect it over a network, such as the Internet, to a computing device. An appraised value of the identified item can be received over the communication network and displayed in association with the compartment containing the item. The item can be dispensed from the vending machine in response to receiving predetermined sales amount or upon specific instruction from an authorized individual. A searchable database of information relating to buyers, sellers, items and other sales related information can also be associated with the vending machine.

Abstract: The invention provides an exemplary method for restocking pharmaceutical or medical supply items into a dispensing unit having a processor, with at least some of the pharmaceutical or medical supply items being held in removable liners having a plurality of receptacles. According to the method, a request is entered into the processor to restock pharmaceutical or medical supply items. One of the liners is then removed from the dispensing unit and is replaced with a replacement liner having a new inventory of pharmaceutical or medical supply items. Information identifying the replacement liner is also entered into the processor.

Abstract: An apparatus for mounting electronic parts enhancing the versatility in the operation for mounting electronic parts and facilitating the operation and maintenance. The apparatus for mounting electronic parts includes four electronic parts-mounting units, means for conveying a mounting board, and a communications system for communication among the mounting units. Each mounting unit includes a communication portion for inputting/outputting data to and from the communications system, a selection filter for selectively obtaining sequence data related to the preset machine logic number from the input sequence data, and an operation control unit for controlling the operation for mounting electronic parts based on the obtained sequence data. The mounting unit works as a parent unit to receive a systematic control function of the whole apparatus, and the mounting units work as child units.

Abstract: A medication dispensing system includes a medicine cabinet having a plurality of compartments for containing supplies of different kinds of medications to be accessed by a healthcare attendant for preparing individual medication dosages for named patients; and a tray having a plurality of sections for receiving a plurality of receptacles each adapted to contain one or more medication dosages prescribed for a named patient. The medicine cabinet includes a processor having a memory for storing the names of patients and their prescribed medication dosages, and a display screen for displaying the patient names and their respective prescribed medication dosages. The tray includes a display screen for displaying the patient names and their respective medication dosages, and a communication link with the medicine cabinet through which the cabinet processor communicates to the tray the patient names and their respective medication dosages.

Abstract: A data processing system is used to manage and track use of chemical product in a washing machine. A detergent dispenser distributes the chemical products (e.g., detergent, rinse agent, and bleach) to the washing machine. The dispenser includes a monitor that detects dispenser data based on distribution of the chemical product by the dispenser. A database is coupled to the dispenser and stores an account identifier and an alignment identifier in association with the dispenser data of the dispenser. The database further stores corporate data in associating with the dispenser data, the account identifier, and the alignment identifier. An analysis application analyzes the dispenser data in relation with the corporate data to characterize use of the chemical product in the chemical application system and provide a feedback loop. The analysis application can limit its analysis to data associated with a given account identifier or a given alignment identifier.

Abstract: A data processing system is used to manage and track use of chemical product in a washing machine. A detergent dispenser distributes the chemical products (e.g., detergent, rinse agent, and bleach) to the washing machine. The dispenser includes a monitor that detects dispenser data based on distribution of the chemical product by the dispenser. A database is coupled to the dispenser and stores an account identifier and an alignment identifier in association with the dispenser data of the dispenser. The database further stores corporate data in associating with the dispenser data, the account identifier, and the alignment identifier. An analysis application analyzes the dispenser data in relation with the corporate data to characterize use of the chemical product in the chemical application system and provide a feedback loop. The analysis application can limit its analysis to data associated with a given account identifier or a given alignment identifier.

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 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 is filled by a dispensing machine that counts the quantity of medication added to the cassette. The information strip is altered by the dispenser to include medication and quantity information corresponding to the dispensed medication. The cassette is also for use with a dispensing machine that dispenses the medication from the cassette, and updates the information strip with additional information including the quantity of medication dispensed from the cassette.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a method of improving the performance of a server enabled to permit connections to clients to persist for a duration equal to a timer value, such as Web servers utilizing HTTP/1.1. In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the server estimates the load on the server and uses the estimate to modify the timer value. The timer value can be chosen to balance the need to increase the throughput as seen by the clients and the server need to service the largest possible number of clients without running out of resources. The timer value can be set to a longer value when the server load is light and a shorter value when the server load is heavy. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the server dynamically selects the largest timer that guarantees that the server does not run out of resources under the current measured load.

Abstract: A beverage dispenser includes an electronic control system for controlling beverage dispenser components. The beverage dispenser components include at least a user interface, a dispensing valve, and a valve interface for regulating the delivery of a beverage from the dispensing valve. The electronic control system includes a microcontroller for monitoring the user interface and for activating the valve interface responsive to user input, thereby regulating the delivery of a beverage from the dispensing valve. The electronic control system further includes a program memory with firmware configured in a state machine system architecture for controlling the microcontroller. The state machine system architecture supports either a non-preemptive or a preemptive multitasking real time operating system. The firmware includes supervisory control firmware, dispenser tasks firmware, and low level drivers firmware.

Abstract: A pill count sensor (10) comprises an electromagnetic energy emitting array (40) and an electromagnetic energy receiving array (42), with a pill detection zone (44) defined therebetween; a sensor amplifier (28); a control board (30) interfaced with a computing device (24); and interconnecting cabling (34, 36, 38). The electromagnetic energy emitting and receiving arrays (40,42) emit and receive, respectively, beams of electromagnetic energy (46) across the zone (44) such that any pill (50) entering the zone (44) is detected by a resulting disruption in received electromagnetic energy at the receiving array (42). The sensor amplifier (28) is operable to automatically self-calibrate in order to compensate for detected electromagnetic energy levels, and to generate a pill sense signal in response to a detected pill (50). The control board (30) is operable to increment a pill count.

Abstract: A medication dispensing system capable of connecting to the Internet is provided. The medication dispensing system can be in the form of a periphery device having electronic means for linkage to a personal computer, PDA, cell phone or WEB TV or can be a stand-alone, on-site terminal having means to connect to the Internet. The medication dispensing system comprises a rotatable medication tray having a plurality of compartments, a servo-mechanism operatively connected to the medication dispensing tray, a microprocessor based controller electronically connected to the servo-mechanism and being programmable to rotate the dispensing tray at a pre-set time. The controller also comprises a data store for maintaining and transmitting a variety of patient information, including the patient's medication regimen and compliance schedule.

Abstract: The present invention provides a control apparatus for use in dispensing machines which can easily set up a plural kinds or a plural numbers of dispensing machines in the same manner. To do this end, the control apparatus for dispensing machines operates and controls a plural kinds or a plural numbers of dispensing machines in accordance with a prescription data. Use conditions of each dispensing machines are stored in an use condition setting file. A dispensing machine to be used for dispensing is selected in accordance with both the prescription data and the use condition setting file.