Particular Supply Arrangement (e.g., Plural Sources Or Compartments) Patents (Class 700/242)
  • Publication number: 20120109373
    Abstract: A media processing device, controls such that when a medium is transported in the inserting direction by means of transporting means, the media information recorded on the medium is read by a media information read means and stored by recording to memory. Whether or not the medium is ejectable is determined by transporting the medium in the ejecting direction by means of the transporting means. The media information stored in memory is controlled so as to be deleted when it is determined that the medium is not ejectable. In this way, as long as it is not confirmed that the medium is ejectable, the media information recorded in the medium is not output to the host device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2010
    Publication date: May 3, 2012
    Applicant: NIDEC SANKYO CORPORATION
    Inventors: Toshirou Shiomi, Tsutomu Baba, Keiji Hoson
  • Patent number: 8170713
    Abstract: An improved method and apparatus for selection of vendible products provides designated product reference areas at a refrigerated double glass front vending machine for making viewable product selections thereon by applying a light tap at its outer glass pane and sensing the tap location by three or more spaced apart resilient members each having its first portion attached at the inner glass pane. The resilient member's second portion suspends an inertia mass that reciprocates at a predetermined rate due to the inertia mass weight and the resiliency of the suspending member. A sensor senses the reciprocating movement in response to the light tap. The location of the tap is determined by measuring the arrival time of each predetermined signal produced by the first resonating alternation of its attached resiliently suspended inertia mass during the first rearward movement of the inner glass pane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2012
    Assignee: Coin Acceptors, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph Levasseur, Mark Leibu
  • Patent number: 8165929
    Abstract: Methods and systems for adaptive storage and management of pharmaceutical product containers at a pharmacy are described. Pharmaceutical product containers are managed so that the containers for more-frequently-used pharmaceutical products are stored among plural storage locations more-efficiently accessible to a pharmacy workstation. Containers for less-frequently- used pharmaceutical products are managed so that the containers for such products are stored among the storage locations which are less-accessible to the pharmacy workstation. As the frequency of pharmaceutical product usage changes, the inventory of pharmaceutical product containers is managed adaptively so that the containers used most frequently are stored at locations more-easily accessible to the pharmacy workstation, thereby facilitating fulfillment of prescriptions by pharmacy personnel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2012
    Assignee: Chudy Group, LLC
    Inventors: Duane S. Chudy, James J. Wiczer
  • Patent number: 8155786
    Abstract: Systems, methods, and devices are described related to the assignment and management of patient-specific bins. A dispensing device at a healthcare facility includes a number of bins for storage of medical supplies, with some of the bins designated as patient-specific bins allocated to be assigned to patients for storage of their medications or certain other supplies. A central server computer system, in communication with a computer of the dispensing device, may monitor and assign current and future patient-specific use of the bins for the dispensing device. The assignment and management of patient-specific bins may be performed by devices distributed through the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Assignee: Omnicell, Inc.
    Inventors: John Vahlberg, Dan Cohen, Jennifer Cartright, Richard Caldwell, Jeff Blank
  • Patent number: 8155784
    Abstract: A system and method for regulating vendible media products is provided. A database stored information corresponding to a plurality of digital video discs within a vending apparatus at a vending location. A central server, having a memory, stores the database. An interface application interfaces with the central server and the database, and selects from the database a subset of the digital video discs. A vending processor within the vending apparatus receives a first signal from the central server, wherein the first signal comprises a list of digital video discs identifying the subset of digital video discs. The vending processor also generates a second signal to place the subset of digital video discs into a portable vending management module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Assignee: Redbox Automated Retail, LLC
    Inventors: J. Mitch Lowe, Eric Hoersten, Devin Hamilton
  • Patent number: 8145351
    Abstract: The invention relates to a storage machine (1) for objects, comprising a compartment system (4) with a plurality of compartments (3) which are at least partially enclosed by a machine housing (2) or some other surround, and with at least one closure mechanism (7) which can be displaced relative to a central, predefined access orifice (6) in the machine housing (2) to release or prevent access to a specific individual compartment (3) or a specific group of adjacent compartments (3). The storage machine (1) also has at least one drive system for displacing the closure mechanism (7) in a controlled manner and the ability of the closure mechanism (7) to move is dependent on an access right which can be checked by a control system. This storage machine (1) has at least one safety system (28) for affording extensive, increased personal safety with respect to risks posed by automated sequences or with respect to its displacement drives which can be activated automatically.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2012
    Assignee: KEBA AG
    Inventors: Manfred Schininger, Claus Peham, Ernst Schacherl
  • Patent number: 8145353
    Abstract: This invention relates to a process and a device for automatically delivering and retrieving singular medication from a plurality of containers or product blister packages, storing and recording medication transactions for each patient, and the crushing of designated medications. This invention also relates to medication control, delivery, consumption verification and monitoring within institutional entities.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2012
    Inventor: Dennis Cotner
  • Patent number: 8140187
    Abstract: A multi-drawer and doored vending system in which each drawer has one or a plurality of compartments each holding an items to be vended, and each doored compartment contains at least one item for vending. Drawer control is provided by a drawer opening and position control system comprising an array of spaced apart control tabs on each drawer, a drawer lock and release assembly, and a progressively movable drawer position control bar to control drawer opening in conjunction with the control tabs. Each doored compartment also employs a lock and release assembly. A control system is provided to control user interface, to maintain product inventory counts and to control the vending process. This involves verifying the identity of a user seeking to obtain a vended item, verifying any other system or pre-vend requirements, and permits limited access to a drawer and compartment corresponding to an approved vend selection. An item return compartment is also included.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2012
    Assignee: Automated Merchandising Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: David M. Campbell, Marcus A. Loignon, Michael V. Smith, Yaron Bukchin
  • Patent number: 8140186
    Abstract: Systems, methods, and devices are described related to the assignment and management of patient-specific bins. A dispensing device at a healthcare facility includes a number of bins for storage of medical supplies, with some of the bins designated as patient-specific bins allocated to be assigned to patients for storage of their medications or certain other supplies. A central server computer system, in communication with a computer of the dispensing device, may monitor and assign current and future patient-specific use of the bins for the dispensing device. The assignment and management of patient-specific bins may be performed by devices distributed through the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2012
    Assignee: Omnicell, Inc.
    Inventors: John Vahlberg, Dan Cohen, Jennifer Cartright, Richard Caldwell, Jeff Blank
  • Patent number: 8135497
    Abstract: A portable, medication dispensing device which dispenses prepackaged pill strands of medication from a secure, storage compartment through a mechanism which physically limits the quantity dispensed per a pre-programmed protocol. The device has a detachable storage component which can be filled by trained clinical or pharmacy staff, which can be locked. The device has a dispensing mechanism, which employs a user-powered, hub to advance a pill strand of pre-packaged medications, when appropriate. This advancing hub is secured from advancing inappropriately by a locking mechanism where a sturdy piston is moved into and out of recesses in the rounded surface of the hub. The device also contains standard electronic components, including a power source, central processing unit (CPU), visual and auditory outputs, and communications ports.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2012
    Inventor: Matthew I. Joslyn
  • Patent number: 8131398
    Abstract: An automatic card dispenser is disclosed, which comprising: a base provided with a standby area, an output area, and a first track and second track parallel to each other; said standby area and output area are respectively provided on each end of the first track and second track, and each side of the dispensed card are respectively put in the first track and second track, and the first track is capable of separating from the standby area and output area; a vertical lifting unit connected to the base with a card box and a vertical driver; a horizontal pushing unit connected to the base for putting the card to contact card pressing wheel provided in the output area along the second track; and a recycling unit connected to the base and provided below the first track.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Assignee: Industrial Technology Research Institute
    Inventors: Chen-Jyh Fan, Hui-Chuan Chen, Ching-Tsung Cheng, Shu-Ju Hsieh, Chun-Te Yu
  • Patent number: 8127914
    Abstract: The change replenishment management system includes a coin roll storage (1), a coin change dispenser (3), and a POS register (5). A control unit (16) of the storage (1) detects the presence and the denomination of a coin roll in a storage section of each drawer (11, 12, 13) in accordance with an output signal generated from a detection system (18), and transmits the result of detection to the coin change dispenser (3). When loose coins obtained by unpacking removed coin rolls, which are removed from the storage (1), are introduced into an inlet (30), a control unit (36 or 50) of the change dispenser (3) or register (5) compares the denomination and the number of the loose coins, which are detected by identification unit (31), with the denomination and the number of the removed coin roll determined on the basis of the detection result transmitted from the storage (1), and judging the correspondence therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Assignee: Glory Ltd.
    Inventors: Ryuichi Tabata, Hiroshi Tone, Yoshiro Oie, Takahiro Washizu, Mikito Imai, Yumiko Imai, legal representative, Koichi Nishida, Tsutomu Iwata, Kazuyuki Shimizu
  • Patent number: 8126590
    Abstract: Systems, methods, and devices are described related to the assignment and management of patient-specific bins. A dispensing device at a healthcare facility includes a number of bins for storage of medical supplies, with some of the bins designated as patient-specific bins allocated to be assigned to patients for storage of their medications or certain other supplies. A central server computer system, in communication with a computer of the dispensing device, may monitor and assign current and future patient-specific use of the bins for the dispensing device. The assignment and management of patient-specific bins may be performed by devices distributed through the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2012
    Assignee: Omnicell, Inc.
    Inventors: John Vahlberg, Dan Cohen, Jennifer Cartright, Richard Caldwell, Jeff Blank
  • Patent number: 8121725
    Abstract: Products are dispensed from a dispensing apparatus in which products marked with transaction information are received in a two-dimensional array of moveable bins. In response to control information synthesized from transaction information on the products in the bins and a dispense request, the array is operated to place a bin at a dispensing station on the dispensing apparatus. At the dispensing station, a mechanism is operated in response to the control information to provide access to the bin. A product in the bin may then be retrieved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2012
    Assignee: Parata Systems, LLC
    Inventors: Stuart C. Baker, Daniel C. Finn, Thomas F. Gaasch, William K. Holmes
  • Patent number: 8112175
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for medicament tracking are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, medicaments are initially stored within secure medicament containers. One or more containers comprise a radio frequency identification module or another electromagnetic transmitter adapted to generate tracking signals. Optionally, the tracking signals may be transmitted according to one or more anti-collision protocols in order to reduce and/or prevent interference with other transmitted signals. Electromagnetic readers situated at one or more locations verify when the medicament containers are proximate to those readers. In some embodiments, once the medicament containers have successfully been tracked to a target location, inventory and tracking data may be updated within one or more external devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2012
    Inventors: Michael Handfield, Helene Laliberte
  • Patent number: 8103379
    Abstract: An exemplary embodiment includes a cabinet having at least one drawer with selectable access for storing items, such as medications. A slidable cover with a first opening allows for closure and/or access to items in an interior of the drawer. The cabinet further includes an actuator coupled to the cover and a controller coupled to the actuator to control movement of the first opening relative to the drawer interior in response to signals generated from a user interface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2012
    Assignee: AutoMed Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott I. Biba, Randall S. Koplin, Daniel J. Lee, Kathy L. Soukup, James A. Michael
  • Patent number: 8095235
    Abstract: A method for control of humidity and auto-dispensing of pills in a pill box includes a box having multiple rooms defined therein which are shifted to be in alignment with an outlet. The method controls the humidity in each of the rooms and provides a control unit which controls a transmission unit to proceed a mechanical action to shift the rooms to be in alignment with the outlet according to a time setting signal so as to dispense at least one pill. The method includes a display unit to display time information and provides a reminder to take pills by way of audio and/or light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2012
    Assignee: Southern Taiwan University
    Inventors: Hsinn-Jyh Tzeng, Ting-Wei Yang, Tsan-Cheng Yang, Chih-Chun Chang, Meng-Feng Tsai, Chih-Tung Su
  • Patent number: 8090472
    Abstract: A medication dispenser provides automation to the steps of locating and acquiring medications to be administered to a patient. The medication dispenser includes an enclosure providing a secure environment for storing medications in multiple sized medication storage bins. The medication storage bins are hung in storage racks located within the enclosure. A robot system is also provided within the enclosure for moving bins between the storage racks and a medication dispensing area. The medication dispensing area includes doors configured to open to define an opening for passing a selected bin through the enclosure. The medication storage bin includes multiple sub-compartments, each configured to receive a single medically related item. The medication storage bin is moved through the opening to present the first sub-compartment containing a medically related item, while other sub-compartment containing medically related items remain within the enclosure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2012
    Assignee: Cerner Innovation, Inc.
    Inventors: Edward J. Schifman, William A. Bedore
  • Patent number: 8090471
    Abstract: A medicament dispensing cabinet is comprised of a frame, at least one controller, and a plurality of drawers each movably carried by the frame and each defining a plurality of dispensing cells. A plurality of removable dispensing devices is provided with each one carried by one of the dispensing cells. Each of the dispensing cells further comprises a motor for providing rotary motion to one of the removable dispensing devices in response to the controller, a sensor operating in conjunction with the controller for counting medicament dispensed from one of the removable dispensing devices, a chute for receiving medicament dispensed from one of the removable dispensing devices and a chute gate for controlling access to the chute. The cabinet may additionally comprise a chute gate release responsive to the controller for controlling the chute gate and a chute gate sensor connected to the controller and responsive to the position of the chute gate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2012
    Assignee: Parata Systems, LLC
    Inventors: Paul Randall Shows, Robert Parks, Ryan Kalntz, Eric Lamont Holmes, Matthew Goodworth, Stuart Morgan, Matthew Stuart Beale, Michael A. Bergeron, Stan Jankowski
  • Patent number: 8090473
    Abstract: The invention describes improved methods and mechanisms for providing secure access to pharmaceutical and supply items in a clinical setting. In one version of the invention, a dispensing unit has an interior housing one or more drawers. Each drawer has one or more storage locations. The fronts of the drawers are covered with one or more locking doors, preventing access to a particular drawer, unless the covering door is unlocked. Indicators are mounted on the side of the enclosure, to guide the user to a drawer covered by an associated unlocked door. The unit further includes indicators on the sides of the drawers, to guide the user to the right storage receptacles or pockets within the drawer. Some pockets may have lids. Some of the lids may have locks. Sensors associated with at least some of the individual pocket lids may be provided to detect the lifting of a lid. Means to automatically detect the entry of a hand or fingers into a pocket may be provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2012
    Inventor: John David Higham
  • Patent number: 8086350
    Abstract: Dispenser for dispensing individual goods, the dispenser comprising a containing space for holding an array of goods, a transport device for consecutively feeding a good from the array to a delivery member for dispensing one or more goods to a consumer, a reading device for reading data from a first good, a control unit connected to the reading unit for receiving data from the reading unit, the control unit being connected to a functional member and being adapted for changing the state of the functional member on the basis of the data received from the first good, characterised in that the data received from the first good includes information pertaining to one or more goods that are to be dispensed consecutively to the first good.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2011
    Assignee: Innospense Capital B.V.
    Inventors: Bartel Antonius Timmermans, Thijs van Nuenen
  • Patent number: 8086349
    Abstract: System and method of dispensing disc-based media and other consumer products. A user can interact with an automated business system to select disc-based media for rental and/or purchase. The automated business system can retrieve the selection from the interior of the automated business system and dispense the selection through a port to the user. The automated business system can retrieve the selection from the port in a return process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2011
    Assignee: NCR Corporation
    Inventors: Donald Blust, Thomas Driscoll
  • Publication number: 20110313567
    Abstract: An automated medicament dispensing machine for dispensing and counting individual medicaments. A medicament supply bin holds a plurality of medicaments. A singulator extends into the medicament supply bin and functions to singulate the plurality of medicaments. The singulator includes a trough that extends into the medicament supply bin. A helix is positioned over the top of the trough. The helix is uncovered at its top. A motor is connected to the helix and rotates the helix so that excess medicaments fall backwards along the trough or into the medicament supply bin as individual medicaments are singulated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 14, 2010
    Publication date: December 22, 2011
    Inventors: Waldemar Willemse, Werner Waidamar Willemse, Clasina Aletta Willemae
  • Patent number: 8082061
    Abstract: Vending machines, automated retail stores, and retail displays with computer controlled, item-based lighting that produces variable visual effects in conjunction with actual or potential vends to provide an enhanced vending experience. Offered products are stored within display tubes that are arranged in orderly geometric arrays. RGB lighting through a plurality of LED banks within polygonal circuit boards associate with each display tube are controlled by a computer activation system that senses the presence of a customer, and the selection of a vend. Combinations of differently colored LED's are computer controlled on a per product basis to artistically illuminate available products and assist customers. Pre-programmed lighting sequences can switch LED off and on, vary their intensity, and alter resultant colors. A touch screen computer responds to user inputs for selections and transactions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2011
    Assignee: Utique, Inc.
    Inventors: Mara Clair Segal, Darrell Scott Mockus, Russell Jon Greenberg
  • Patent number: 8078317
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2011
    Assignee: Bluepoint International Pty Ltd.
    Inventors: John Clive Allinson, Garry David Boyd
  • Patent number: 8073563
    Abstract: Systems, methods, and devices are described related to the assignment and management of patient-specific bins. A dispensing device at a healthcare facility includes a number of bins for storage of medical supplies, with some of the bins designated as patient-specific bins allocated to be assigned to patients for storage of their medications or certain other supplies. A central server computer system, in communication with a computer of the dispensing device, may monitor and assign current and future patient-specific use of the bins for the dispensing device. The assignment and management of patient-specific bins may be performed by devices distributed through the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2011
    Assignee: Omnicell, Inc.
    Inventors: John Vahlberg, Dan Cohen, Jennifer Cartright, Richard Caldwell, Jeff Blank
  • Patent number: 8068934
    Abstract: A medication dispensing system uses a series of medication rings grouped as a rotary drum and controlled for dispensing medication on a daily basis into a divided pill box. Each medication ring includes an associated medication collar that cooperates with the medication ring to reduce the possibility of abrasion of the medication dosages held in the medication rings. The pill box is moved and rotated within the dispensing system by a carriage to dispense medication into appropriate cells of the pill box. A computer control module controls the movement of the various components and is programmable for loading and dispensing different medication regimes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2011
    Inventor: Leon Saltsov
  • Patent number: 8068932
    Abstract: A container for an access-controlled storage system having a plurality of compartments designed to contain an article where access to the article is controlled by granting access to one or more compartments at a time without moving the article, wherein control is provided by a rotary belt with a cut-out directed by deflection pulleys; and an access-controlled storage system having at least two containers and a housing wherein control of the container is actuated to grant access to one or more defined compartments within the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2011
    Assignee: Roche Diagnostics Operations, Inc.
    Inventor: Hannes Kirzinger
  • Publication number: 20110288380
    Abstract: A medication dispensing compliance device with interconnectivity to common vital sign monitoring devices such as blood pressure cuffs, glucometers, weight scales, pulse oximeters, heart rate monitors, body temperature, respirometers and other vital sign monitoring apparatus and a system for the aggregation of medication management and clinical vital signs to monitor patient compliance and efficacy of prescribed medications.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 17, 2011
    Publication date: November 24, 2011
    Applicant: Meridian Health System, Inc.
    Inventors: Salvatore Richard Inciardi, Sandra D. Elliott
  • Patent number: 8060248
    Abstract: There is provided an automated prescription filling system using a robotic arm in combination with an automatic pharmaceutical dispenser having a plurality of individual pill-counting units, each under the control of its own microprocessor. The automatic pharmaceutical dispensers are modified for use with the robotic arm. Because tablet counting is completely independent of the robotic arm, system throughput is higher than in systems of the prior art. Unlike systems of the prior art, each individual pill-counting unit can be removed from behind the pharmaceutical dispenser so that the system need not be stopped for such service. The fact that counting operations are divorced from robotic arm movements allows the arm movements to be optimized and multiple prescriptions to be processed simultaneously. Controller software optimizes movement of the robotic arm based upon such factors as the fullness of the vial being transported.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2011
    Assignee: Innovation Associates, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph H. Boyer, James G. McGonigal, Bruce Edward Holtje, Timothy William Limer, James Patrick Boyer, Mark Andrew Fisher, Todd Edward Bower, Michael J. Hostetler
  • Patent number: 8055380
    Abstract: The daily pill dispensing apparatus has a front section connected to a back section, a top hinge disposed on the top between the front section and the back section, a dispenser lid connected to the top hinge and pivotally covering the front section, a septet of top doors disposed atop the back section, each top door pivotally covering a separate compartment of the back section via the top hinge, a day indicia disposed atop each top door, a dispensing door hingedly separating each compartment from the front section, each dispensing door opening into the front section, a display disposed atop the dispenser lid, a controls disposed in the front section bottom, the controls in communication with the display and with each dispensing door, whereby each dispensing door sequentially opens, each dispensing door opening only one day per week, and battery power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2011
    Inventors: Vandana Verma, Ravindra Kumar
  • Patent number: 8041451
    Abstract: A method for providing bin-based control when manufacturing integrated circuit devices is disclosed. The method comprises performing a plurality of processes on a plurality of wafer lots; determining a required bin quantity, an actual bin quantity, and a projected bin quantity; comparing the determined required bin quantity with the determined actual bin quantity and determined projected bin quantity; and modifying at least one of the plurality of processes on the plurality of wafer lots if the determined actual bin quantity and determined projected bin quantity fail to satisfy the determined required bin quantity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2011
    Assignee: Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company, Ltd.
    Inventors: Sunny Wu, Chih-Sheng Shih, Andy Tsen, Jo Fei Wang, Jong-I Mou, Hsin Kuan
  • Patent number: 8036774
    Abstract: System and method of dispensing disc-based media and other consumer products. A user can interact with an automated business system to select disc-based media for rental and/or purchase. The automated business system can retrieve the selection from the interior of the automated business system and dispense the selection through a port to the user. The automated business system can retrieve the selection from the port in a return process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Assignee: NCR Corporation
    Inventors: Donald Blust, Thomas Driscoll
  • Patent number: 8027748
    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 method for dispensing includes receiving a signal at a medicament container authorizing the medicament container to dispense a medicament unit contained therein; unlocking an outlet port of the medicament container in response to the signal; dispensing the medicament unit through the outlet port in response to the signal; and locking the outlet port after the medicament unit is dispensed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2011
    Inventors: Michael Handfield, Helene Laliberte
  • Patent number: 8019471
    Abstract: An integrated medication management and compliance system for enabling a care provider to remotely manage and deliver individual doses of therapeutic products to a patient, in a non-sequential fashion. The system includes delivery apparatus remotely located from the care provider, wherein the apparatus stores a plurality of sealed unit dose packages that are delivered to a patient at a scheduled dosing time. The delivery apparatus is coupled to a control facility and to a computer terminal of the care provider by way of a secure communications network. The system enables the patient's medication regimen to be remotely tailored in real-time to accommodate fluid medical conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2011
    Assignee: InRange Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert C. Bogash, Christopher E. Bossi, Christopher J. Vereb, Harvey E. Downey, Gerald R. Grafius, C. David Rogers, Dennis Coon, Mary Anne Papp
  • Patent number: 8019470
    Abstract: One aspect of the invention relates to an assembly comprising a plurality of bins with a plurality of lids associated therewith. Each of the bins has a lock assembly that includes a catch operable to lock the lid in its closed position and a mechanical indicator responsive to the catch. Another aspect of the invention relates to an automated dispensing cabinet that includes a control computer and a plurality of drawers having a plurality of row assemblies therein. Each row assembly has bins that include a tabbed lid, a lock assembly with a catch operable to engage and disengage the tab, and an indicator responsive to the lock assembly. Methods for dispensing from and restocking the remote dispensing systems are also given, as well as a method for indicating which item is to be dispensed from one of a plurality of bins.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2011
    Assignee: McKesson Automation Inc.
    Inventors: Robert B. Meek, Jr., Kirk A. Young, Louis S. Conley, Eric J. Switalski, Allen D. Bowers
  • Publication number: 20110208351
    Abstract: A personal medication regimen control system includes a pocket scheduler size or similar small container, divided into compartment recesses that allow it to separately store different types of medication as well as detect the presence of the medication in the recesses, warn the user of times and dates to use the medication and establish communication locally and remotely through cellular or similar remote communication that will allow third parties such as caregivers, pharmacists, nurses and physicians to participate and ensure accurate compliance with medical instructions and replenishing of medication supply for the patient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2011
    Publication date: August 25, 2011
    Inventors: Hermano da Costa Ribeiro, Jose Daniel Martin Catoira
  • Publication number: 20110202174
    Abstract: An integrated medication management and compliance system for enabling a care provider to remotely manage and deliver individual doses of therapeutic products to a patient, in a non-sequential fashion. System includes delivery apparatus remotely located from the care provider, wherein the apparatus stores a plurality of sealed unit dose packages that are delivered to a patient at a scheduled dosing time. The delivery apparatus is coupled to a control facility and to a computer terminal of the care provider by way of a secure communications network. The system enables the patient's medication regimen to be remotely tailored in real-time to accommodate fluid medical conditions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2011
    Publication date: August 18, 2011
    Applicant: INRange Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert C. Bogash, Christopher E. Bossi, Christopher J. Vereb, Harvey E. Downey, Gerald R. Grafius, C. David Rogers, Dennis Coon, Mary Anne Papp
  • Patent number: 8000836
    Abstract: The present invention provides a random access and random load dispensing unit including a housing, at least one support located in the housing and defining a first axis, a plurality of platforms movable along the support along the first axis, a plurality of bins supported on the platforms, the bins being movable with the platforms, and a shuttle assembly movable along the first axis and further movable along a second axis substantially perpendicular to the first axis between the plurality of platforms to access and retrieve products stored in the bins.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2011
    Assignee: Asteres, Inc.
    Inventors: Linda J. Pinney, John A. Beane, Angus R. Colson, Jr., David R. Williams, Keith Kopitzke, Keith W. Reynolds, Erik Howard Barnes
  • Patent number: 7987020
    Abstract: A key storage and dispensation assembly 10 which selectively and securely stores keys, such as key 144 and which allows access to a stored key, such as key 144, without allowing access to the remaining key, and to a method which uses such a technique.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2011
    Inventor: Jessie Donald Swinea, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7978564
    Abstract: This invention relates to an interactive medication container or console that hold or otherwise organizes one or more medication vials or containers. Each vial has a memory strip containing medication and prescription information. Each vial can also include a reminder unit that is attached to and portable with the individual vials. The console or reminder unit reads the information strip of the vial and communicates this information to or interacts with a patient to remind them to take the medication. The medication container or reminder unit also gathers or tracks information such as consumption time, quantity remaining, patient feedback, and contraindication information. The medication container or reminder unit interacts with the patient by displaying questions or receiving and recording input from the patient before, during or after a dose of medication is taken. The patient input can be used to modify the dosing regimen for future doses of medication.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2011
    Inventor: Carlos De La Huerga
  • Patent number: 7949426
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus are disclosed herein for a medicament container with a multi-colored, multi-functional display. In some embodiments, the display is adapted to output multiple colors and/or characters. In one embodiment, the display may change colors and/or blinking status in order to indicate the working status of the tray. For example, the display may show a green light to indicate that the medicament container is working properly, a yellow light to indicate that the tray needs to be replenished soon, or a blinking red light to indicate that the tray is empty.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2011
    Inventors: Michael Handfield, Helene Laliberte
  • Patent number: 7933683
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide a partition plate capable of efficiently cleaning a medicine remaining in a V-measure. The partition plate comprises: a slide member (8) which is installed so as to be capable of reciprocating along side plates and has a guide reception part (11); and a partition member (9) which has a guide part (18) removably guided by the guide reception part (11) of the slide member (8) and reciprocates together with the slide member (8) while maintaining such a state so as to be parallel with an end plate (5).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2011
    Assignee: Yuyama Mfg. Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Chisei Asaoka, Koji Yamashita
  • Patent number: 7933682
    Abstract: An integrated medication management and compliance system for enabling a care provider to remotely manage and deliver individual doses of therapeutic products to a patient, in a non-sequential fashion. The system includes delivery apparatus remotely located from the care provider, wherein the apparatus stores a plurality of sealed unit dose packages that are delivered to a patient at a scheduled dosing time. The delivery apparatus is coupled to a control facility and to a computer terminal of the care provider by way of a secure communications network. The system enables the patient's medication regimen to be remotely tailored in real-time to accommodate fluid medical conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2011
    Assignee: InRange Systems
    Inventors: Robert C. Bogash, Christopher E. Bossi, Christopher J. Vereb, Harvey E. Downey, Gerald R. Grafius, C. David Rogers, Dennis Coon, Mary Anne Papp
  • Patent number: 7930066
    Abstract: In a preferred embodiment, an automated Pharmacy Admixture System (APAS) may include a manipulator system to transport medical containers such as bags, vials, or syringes in a compounding chamber regulated to a pressure below atmospheric pressure. In a preferred implementation, the manipulator system is configured to grasp and convey syringes, IV bags, and vials of varying shapes and sizes from a storage system in an adjacent chamber regulated at a pressure above atmospheric pressure. Various embodiments may include a controller adapted to actuate the manipulator system to bring a fill port of an IV bag, vial, or syringe into register with a filling port at a fluid transfer station in the chamber. A preferred implementation includes a sanitization system that can substantially sanitize a bung on a fill port of a vial or IV bag in preparation for transport to the fluid transfer station.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2011
    Assignee: Intelligent Hospital Systems Ltd.
    Inventors: Walter W. Eliuk, Ronald H. Rob, Lance R. Mlodzinski, Alex H. Reinhardt, Thom Doherty
  • Patent number: 7925375
    Abstract: A machine for storing objects includes a compartment system with a plurality of compartments and having at least one closure mechanism which can be moved relative to a central, predefined access orifice in the machine housing to permit or prevent access to a specific, individual compartment or to a specific group of adjacent compartments. A driving force of the drive system for the closure mechanism is dimensioned or can be set and/or a drive train or a motion transmitting path between the drive system and closure mechanism has a force or torque limiting device such that maximum force or torque transmitting values acting on the closure mechanism are fixed or can be set so that automatic movements of the closure mechanism can not cause serious injuries to a user, and in addition the closure mechanism can be manually held open or pushed open in spite of the active drive system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2011
    Assignee: KEBA AG
    Inventors: Manfred Schininger, Claus Peham, Ernst Schacherl
  • Patent number: 7912582
    Abstract: A self-contained, fully automated system for dispensing medicants into vials. Prescriptions are entered using a built-in workstation. Vials of several sizes are each contained in preloaded cassettes. Upon command from a computer, a vial is released and labeled with the prescription information. A robotic system moves the labeled vial to the output chute of one of many automated dispensing units that has previously been commanded to count a predetermined number of tablets, pills, or capsules. The filled vial is robotically moved to an optional capping station where a cap is applied if needed. The vial is then moved to an output region where it is sorted with other prescriptions for a customer. The prescription may be checked using the built-in computer workstation. Optionally, the automated dispensing system may be linked to pharmacy control software.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2011
    Assignee: Innovation Associates, Inc.
    Inventors: Bruce E. Holtje, James McGonigal
  • Patent number: 7904390
    Abstract: A management apparatus, a charging object apparatus and a management system and method by which a product of an object of use can be used in an efficiency as high as possible when it is used commonly by a plurality of people.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2011
    Assignee: Sony Corporation
    Inventor: Yasuji Yui
  • Patent number: 7904199
    Abstract: This invention is a vending machine and components parts that include a sophisticated positioning system, gripper and trays for improved efficiency in product retrieval and delivery. A unique initialization and calibration system is implemented at start up to determine the positions of shelves and trays of product containers in the machine, and may be implemented at other times if trays or shelves are added or removed, or if tray or shelf positions change. These positions are then used by the positioning and gripping systems to accurately and efficiently retrieve products from the trays. Related methods are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2011
    Assignee: Sanden Vendo America, Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel S Carter, Christopher R. Craven, Walid H. El-Aouar, Craig R Greiner, Larry E Hieb, Dean W James, Sandra L Southard, Rolando S. Williams
  • Patent number: 7896149
    Abstract: The change replenishment management system includes a coin roll storage (1), a coin change dispenser (3), and a POS register (5). A control unit (16) of the storage (1) detects the presence and the denomination of a coin roll in a storage section of each drawer (11, 12, 13) in accordance with an output signal generated from a detection system (18), and transmits the result of detection to the coin change dispenser (3). When loose coins obtained by unpacking removed coin rolls, which are removed from the storage (1), are introduced into an inlet (30), a control unit (36 or 50) of the change dispenser (3) or register (5) compares the denomination and the number of the loose coins, which are detected by identification unit (31), with the denomination and the number of the removed coin roll determined on the basis of the detection result transmitted from the storage (1), and judging the correspondence therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2011
    Assignee: Glory Ltd.
    Inventors: Ryuichi Tabata, Hiroshi Tone, Yoshiro Oie, Takahiro Washizu, Mikito Imai, Yumiko Imai, legal representative, Koichi Nishida, Tsutomu Iwata, Kazuyuki Shimizu