Abstract: Shoe organization and selection system whereby a person can easily and conveniently find a pair of shoes desired from their closet by selecting the shoe from a computer screen that contains pictures of all of the shoes in the shoe organizer (FIG. 1A), and then the computer will open the appropriate shoe drawer (18) so that the desired shoe can be extracted. The system comprises of a modular shoe organizer rack (FIG. 1A) which will contain the actual shoes, a motorized shoe drawer (18), and a shoe selection console (40), thereby named SSC for short, that will be directly connected to each shoe compartment either wired or wirelessly. The shoe selection console (40) will contain a picture of each shoe (42) contained in the shoe organizer.

Abstract: A method and system for loading a tray, e.g., a multi-compartment tray, with at least one medication, the tray having a light grid over a surface thereof is provided. Further provided is a computerized method and system for delivering medication to at least one individual from a tray, e.g., a multi-compartment tray, having a light grid over a surface thereof. If desired, the tray may further include a scanner over a surface thereof which is capable of scanning an identification code coupled with the medication being loaded and/or removed from the tray.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for dosing substances to be dispensed, in particular medicinal liquids, in particular for an injection, the device including a setting device for setting the amount of the substance to be dispensed, a signal receiving device for detecting setting signals of the setting device, an evaluation unit for receiving and evaluating the setting signals detected by the signal receiving device, a device for generating speech signals in accordance with the evaluation signals of the evaluation unit, and a device for outputting speech signals. The invention encompasses a method for dosing substances to be dispensed including the steps of detecting a setting signal of a setting device and outputting a speech signal in accordance with the setting signal detected.

Abstract: A prescription drug storage and dispensing arrangement allows prescriptions stored, as they are filled, in a cabinet for customer pickup. The prescriptions are placed into receptacles such as pharmacy envelopes and placed on carriers, e.g., hanger bars, that are transported on a conveyor within the cabinet. The conveyor brings one carrier at a time to an access opening for loading or retrieving of a pharmacy envelope. In one embodiment the hanger bars are rods with spaced annular recesses defining bag positions. Scissors-action arms may be used to suspend the hanger rods from the conveyor webs. The identity of each pharmacy envelope and the location of the respective bar on said conveyor and the bag position are stored in a computer, with information identifying the customer order. When the customer arrives to pick up the prescription, the customer data is entered and the conveyor automatically moves to position the respective hanger bar at the access opening.

Abstract: A method and system for loading a tray, e.g., a multi-compartment tray, with at least one medication, the tray having a light grid over a surface thereof is provided. Further provided is a computerized method and system for delivering medication to at least one individual from a tray, e.g., a multi-compartment tray, having a light grid over a surface thereof. If desired, the tray may further include a scanner over a surface thereof which is capable of scanning an identification code coupled with the medication being loaded and/or removed from the tray.

Abstract: A medical dispenser being adapted to hold a number of medical doses and being adapted to determine when a user or patient gains access to one or more of the medical doses, the dispenser comprising: means for determining each of a first plurality of points in time or time intervals at which the user or patient should take a medical dose, means for detecting each of a second plurality of points in time where the user or patient gained access to the medical doses, means for providing to the user or patient information relating to a relation between the first and second pluralities, and wherein the providing means are adapted to, if the user gains access to the medication multiple times per point in time or time interval in the first plurality of points in time or time intervals, provide information relating to a relation between the pairs of one of the firs plurality of points in time or time intervals and a first of the second plurality of points in time occurring after the pertaining point in time of the first

Abstract: Disclosed herein are a method and device for transporting and sorting postal deliveries. The method includes verifying whether postal deliveries are to be delivered to an electronic parcel compartment system. Furthermore, the method includes determining whether several of the postal deliveries are to be delivered to the same electronic parcel compartment system. Still further, the method includes common transportation and subsequent distribution to individual parcel compartments of postal deliveries to the same electronic parcel compartment system, for at least a part of the transport route.

Abstract: The present invention comprises a system and method for administering medications to a plurality of patients in a medication institution. A preferred system comprises a workflow program for generating a scheduler, wherein the scheduler coordinates the administration of medications to the patients, a medicine cabinet, responsive to said scheduler, for storing medications and dispensing the medications to an authorized user for administration to the patients, the workflow program providing the cabinet with patient specific information relating to said dispensation of the medications including a physician order for each patient, and a medicine cart, coupled to the medicine cabinet, for instructing said authorized user in the administration of said medication to each of said patients.

Abstract: A method and system for loading a tray, e.g., a multi-compartment tray, with at least one medication, the tray having a light grid over a surface thereof is provided. Further provided is a computerized method and system for delivering medication to at least one individual from a tray, e.g., a multi-compartment tray, having a light grid over a surface thereof. If desired, the tray may further include a scanner over a surface thereof which is capable of scanning an identification code coupled with the medication being loaded and/or removed from the tray.

Abstract: A cabinet suitable for use in storing items. The cabinet includes a drawer having a base. A plurality of cassettes are arranged within the drawer. Each cassette is individually movable in a direction that is substantially perpendicular to the base. A plurality of locking mechanisms cooperate to inhibit movement of each of the plurality of cassettes. A controller is operable to actuate one or more locking mechanisms to release one of the plurality of cassettes for movement.

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 web-based common use terminal, e.g. a kiosk of an item delivery and retrieval system utilizing a web connection with one or more web servers for respective delivery service providers with any desired number of applications being separately run, depending upon the needs of a user. In a preferred embodiment, four discrete application including package pick-up, package exchange, buying postage, and club type delivery and pick-up of discrete items, are hosted while using the same system hardware.

Abstract: A carousel used in a restocking system is comprised of a drive track. A plurality of bins are arranged into rows, with the rows being driven by said drive track. A drive mechanism, e.g. an electric motor, drives the drive track. A sensor is provided to sense the position of the rows of bins. A processor is responsive to the sensor and data representative of a plurality of picks for more than one order for controlling the drive mechanism. By combining picks from different orders into a batch, the time spent driving the rows and time between picks is minimized. The carousel may be divided into a plurality of columns, each with its own drive track, drive mechanism, and sensor, to enable several rows to be brought into a pick position simultaneously. Various methods and forms of restocking packages are also disclosed.

Abstract: A drawer for use in a dispensing cabinet is comprised of a tray movable between an open position and a closed position. An insert, approximately the length of the tray, is carried by the tray and defines the volume of the drawer. A lockable or sealable lid is carried by the insert. A release mechanism is provided to connect the insert to the tray in a manner that allows the insert to be easily disconnected from the tray. Removal of the insert enables inserts to be swapped so that inserts from which inventory has been depleted can be replaced with stocked inserts. A dispensing cabinet and a method of restocking the cabinet are also disclosed.

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

Abstract: A method and system for the efficient bulk package delivery for recipients. Items ordered by different customers from different retailers, suppliers or manufacturers can be organized by common item identifiers and shipped in bulk from retailers or manufacturers, to an origination regional distribution center. The items can be sorted at the origination regional distribution center in bulk based on the location of destination regional distribution centers that can serve destination centralized pickup locations chosen by the customers placing the orders for those items. Ordered items can be sorted by recipient and the destination centralized pickup location specified in the customer's order and packed into recipient-specific packages at the destination regional distribution center.

Abstract: A device for dispensing items comprises a cabinet having an interior for storing items. A dispenser frame is coupled to the cabinet and is configured to be accessed, such as by pulling the dispenser frame from the cabinet. The dispenser frame includes a plurality of dividers that are configured to hold the plurality of dispensing mechanisms that each hold multiple items within the storage area. Further, the dividers are reconfigurable to permit the arrangement of the dispensing mechanisms to be adjusted. A lockable door is coupled to the front of the cabinet in front of the dispenser frame. The door may be opened to provide access to the interior of the cabinet and to the dispenser frame. A dispense drawer is positioned below the storage area so that items dispensed from the dispensing mechanisms fall into the dispense drawer, where they may be accessed by pulling open the dispense drawer.

Abstract: A unit dose medication compliance monitoring and reporting apparatus and system that includes a dispenser shell formed with dose compartments. A retainer sheet affixed to the shell seals each compartment and partially bursts upon dispensing. A sensor network and monitoring and reporting circuitry records dispensing times and determines an average time interval, which can be reported with other data on an integral data display. The system can thereby monitor and report patient compliance with prescription regimens. Additional data can be recorded and displayed for augmented patient compliance assistance and analysis, which data can include customized informational messages, telephone and other patient support contact information, unit doses dispensed and remaining, reminder alarms, identification data, prescription regimens, among other data.

Abstract: The invention utilizes a data collection module, which can operate in conjunction with a wireless companion module to transmit information regarding a vending machine to a central location to enable management to determine the cash and inventory status of each dispensing unit within a bulk-vending machine. This enables servicing of the business to be delegated to low skilled employees who replace the canisters and return them to the centralized location for cleaning and re-stocking. The invention basically utilizes a counter which is coupled to the gear mechanism of the dispensing machine and provides a count for every coin inserted. The count is compared with programmable indicia in a microprocessor to determine when the signal is to be transmitted to the central location. In this manner, the central location can also have trained employees to repair the modules and manage the inventory business so that travel between the location of the vending machine and the central headquarters is minimized.

Abstract: The present invention provides a fuel dispensing system for setting transaction parameters in association with a remote communications unit. This system will include wireless or radio communications electronics adapted to receive signals from remote communications units, a transaction interface for carrying out transactions, and a control system and associated memory operating in conjunction with the communications electronics and a transaction interface. The control system is adapted to receive indicia from a remote communications unit and control the transaction at the transaction interface involving the remote communications unit according to predefined parameters associated with the remote communications unit.

Abstract: The apparatus includes a storage cart in a storage area and supply carts in user areas at substantial distances from the storage area. The user carts are constantly open, and accessible to anyone, for a user to actuate to register on a computer unit the articles that are placed in and removed from the bins in the supply carts. The apparatus includes supplemental units detachably applied to the supply carts, having push-buttons corresponding to the bins in the supply carts. A running tally of the articles placed in and removed from the supply carts is maintained in a computer monitor by simple steps made by the user in so placing the articles in and removing them from the supply carts, without a separate operation for counting the articles.

Abstract: Dispensable objects are loaded into a portable case for transport to a dispensing site by connecting a reload controller with a case to be reloaded. Latchable and unlatchable object retainers arrayed in the case are relatched, and the reload controller is activated to respond to a reloading request to unlatch some of the retainers in locations suitable for receiving reloaded objects. A person then reloads the chosen objects in the array locations opened up by the unlatched retainers and relatches those retainers. The controller then acts upon another reloading request to unlatch more retainers in locations suitable for receiving additionally loaded objects, as the loading sequence repeats.

Abstract: A carousel used in a restocking system is comprised of a drive track. A plurality of bins are arranged into rows, with the rows being driven by said drive track. A drive mechanism, e.g. an electric motor, drives the drive track. A sensor is provided to sense the position of the rows of bins. A processor is responsive to the sensor and data representative of a plurality of picks for more than one order for controlling the drive mechanism. By combining picks from different orders into a batch, the time spent driving the rows and time between picks is minimized. The carousel may be divided into a plurality of columns, each with its own drive track, drive mechanism, and sensor, to enable several rows to be brought into a pick position simultaneously.

Abstract: A method and system for verifying the age of a purchaser prior to his purchase of age-restricted items from a vending machine. An authorization card is issued to a customer containing a password when the customer presents identification material identifying the customer as being of at least a predetermined age. The customer inputs the authorization card into the vending machine, and a comparison of the password on the card is made to the password stored in a microprocessor in the vending machine. If the passwords match, the vending machine is enabled to accept payment from the customer and to vend the age-restricted product.

Abstract: A dispenser (10) for dispensing medical items (68, 70, 72) includes dispenser modules (28, 30) movably mounted thereon. The dispenser modules are selectively operative to dispense medical items therefrom into a path (54) which is connected to a delivery area (20) of the dispenser. The dispenser and the dispenser modules therein are configured to provide security against unauthorized access thereto. However an authorized user is enabled to readily access the dispenser modules and the medical items therein by unlocking a lock (22), opening a door (16) and extending the dispenser modules through an opening (18). With the dispenser modules in the extended position the medical items therein may be replenished. Alternatively, the dispenser modules may be disconnected from the dispenser and replaced with substitute dispenser modules.

Abstract: A system and method for automated package delivery and pick-up include at least one package portal located in a delivery and pick-up station to receive and dispense packages from the station. A station controller is coupled to an information input system and the package receiving and dispensing portal mechanism, and is arranged to associate package and intended recipient identification information with a received package. The controller is also arranged to process identification information, which may include biometric information, to authenticate the identity of an intended recipient, and to permit dispensing of the package from the at least one portal in response thereto. The station supports unattended delivery and pick-up of packages to improve overall efficiency of a package delivery system as well as user convenience and safety.

Abstract: A medication dispensing cart has a pull-out drawer, and a conveyor that transports a number of removable medication bins within the cart, one at a time, to the position of the drawer. An on-board processor controls operation of the bin conveyor mechanism whose pathway can be a serpentine (folded) loop. The drawer slide engages the bin located at the drawer position, and the bin can be pulled forward from said conveyor and pushed back onto the conveyor. The bins can be lifted out when the drawer is opened. A 2-D bar code symbol or other machine-readable code, positioned on the bin, contains data identifying the contents of the bin and the associated patient. A reader device reads the coded symbol and transfers data for that bin to an on-board processor. The processor keeps track of the bins on the conveyor, as well as their contents. Pusher arms on the drawer assist in pushing the bin out when the drawer is opened and in returning the bin onto its carrier when the drawer is closed.

Abstract: A method for selecting a parts kit detail for the installation of a pressure transducer on a container such as a pipeline or a vessel, the container for containing a fluid material, the method including two steps. The first step is to establish at least two different installation categories, each such different installation category being defined by the properties of the fluid material. The second step is to establish at least two different parts kit details, at least two of such different parts kit details being applicable to the different installation categories.

Abstract: A vehicle including a ground speed sensor arranged to detect the speed of travel of the vehicle on the ground and including a wave transmitter arranged to transmit waves toward the ground, a wave receiver arranged to received waves reflected from the ground and a processor coupled to the transmitter and receiver to determine the speed of travel based on the transmitted waves and received waves. The waves are transmitted in pulses or modulated such that the processor is able to determine the distance between a wave-transmission and reception point and the ground (by time of flight for ultrasonic and electromagnetic waves or phase difference-for electromagnetic waves) and the velocity of the vehicle (using Doppler analysis).

Abstract: A medication dispensing cassette and related apparatus for controlling and monitoring of dispensing of oral medications is disclosed. The cassette comprises at least one continuous track having a plurality of receptacles for medication, a microprocessor to monitor and effect any movement of the continuous track and to control release of medication according to a predetermined schedule and for monitoring such release and optionally, a communication system for transmission of data on release of medication to a remote location. The remote location may be a data management system in communication with at least one of a physician's office, a hospital, a pharmacy, an insurance company, a research organization or an individual. The medication may be in the form of a pill, a powder or a liquid. The apparatus facilitates patient education with respect to the medication through display of information, and optionally as well as support and transfer data from peripheral devices e.g.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for securely transferring medical information is provided, which included storing information relating to a medical prescription item on a smart card using an encryption method that provides independent verification as to the source of the information, verifying the source of the information by the provider of the medical prescription item and modifying the stored information relating to the medical prescription item when the prescription is filled, and storing the modified information on the smart card using an encryption method that provides independent verification of the source of the modified information.

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 storage shelf (10) comprising a plurality of stacked supports (12) for supporting containers (13) of articles suitable for handling by an automated storage and retrieval device (15) including at least one storage and retrieval opening (20) for storage and retrieval of the containers (13) and a computer (17) in which information as to the stored articles (14) is memorized. To improve the overview of the stored articles at least one digital camera (16) is provided which senses the articles (14) held in the containers (13). The resulting digital information is memorized in the computer (17) for display by means of a monitor.

Abstract: An information management system is applied to a supply flow of dispensed objects by incorporating microcircuitry into a portable dispensing case that is loaded with objects at a loading site and transported to a dispensing site where the objects are dispensed from the portable case. A communication connection connects the microcircuitry with a reload controller at the loading site and a dispensing controller at the dispensing site. By means of the communication connection loading information on the identities and locations of objects in the case is supplied to the microcircuitry where it is made available at the dispensing site, and transactional information involved in dispensing of the objects at the dispensing site is loaded into the microcircuitry for return to the reloading site. Such an arrangement allows analysis of the transactional information and the loading information showing actual usage of objects at both the dispensing site and the reloading site.

Abstract: A storage system for receiving, delivering and storing items, e.g. mail items, to be distributed. Items are stored in a flexible manner allowing sufficient space to be allocated to each item while ensuring that the total available space is utilised in an optimal manner. Items may be carried on trays. The size of the items is determined in order to allocate the correct amount of space. Items may be repositioned during non-operational periods in order to reduce time consumed during delivery of items from the system. Further, methods for receiving and delivering items to/from the system. A payment system is provided.

Abstract: The input of information into the control unit of a lottery ticket dispensing machine, for filling of dispensing containers of the machine with different game tickets, defining a game number for a game provided on the tickets, a price of the ticket, a total number of the tickets making up the quantity of tickets and a length of the tickets from a leading edge of each ticket to a trailing edge thereof is simplified so as to avoid requiring the service person to enter the information on a key pad as numerical values. This is effected by providing the information in machine readable form on the tickets themselves or on a game set up card associated with the tickets so that the information can be scanned into the control unit by a reader. Alternatively, the information can be provided in a simplified coded form for simple input by the service person into a key pad of the control unit.

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 automated system of storage locker bins to efficiently provide the storage and self-service retrieval of articles. The articles can be packages and the automated system of storage locker bins can be used effectively in a package delivery process in which packages are transported in bulk to a destination centralized pickup location for recipients. The automated system of storage locker bins can operate at a high level of efficiency with regard to space utilization to further reduce storage costs and ultimately reduce delivery costs by employing moving and stationary bins to allow recipients to retrieve packages stored at heights above the reach of those recipients and bins which are configurable in size to allow storage locker bins to be adjusted to sizes more closely approximating the size of the articles or packages to be loaded into them.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for the order and delivery of goods in which the goods are transported to one or more storage containers that are maintained in a drive-up storage, retrieval, and dispensing mechanism. Goods are ordered via the Internet, telephone, or other electronic method, retrieved from a warehouse or store, and transported to the storage container by truck or by a regional train system designed for passenger use. The storage container accepts packages, which are placed into a plastic storage box and moved by an elevator assembly to a particular storage bin located in a matrix of bins arranged in columns and rows. When a customer arrives to pick up a package, he or she drives up to the device and communicates with the system via a keypad and display screen to identify the order and present appropriate identification of the person or other means of maintaining security.

Abstract: A system and method for automated package delivery and pick-up include at least one package portal located in a delivery and pick-up station to receive and dispense packages from the station. A station controller is coupled to an information input system and the package receiving and dispensing portal mechanism, and is arranged to associate package and intended recipient identification information with a received package. The controller is also arranged to process identification information, which may include biometric information, to authenticate the identity of an intended recipient, and to permit dispensing of the package from the at least one portal in response thereto. The station supports unattended delivery and pick-up of packages to improve overall efficiency of a package delivery system as well as user convenience and safety.

Abstract: In the present invention, in order to reliably smoothly recover different kinds of medicines separately and pack them, the apparatus is provided with hoppers 18, 19 with at least two separated passages, and wherein each hopper 18, 19 can feed a different kind of medicine.

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 network topology for communication within and between food service equipment items generally comprises one or more food service equipment items, each having a controller and at least one functional subsystem configured as a slave to the controller, and a master interface and a bus slave interface associated with each controller. Each master interface is adapted for electrical communication over an intra-equipment communication channel with a slave interface associated with the functional subsystem. Each bus slave interface is adapted for communication, external to the food service equipment item, over an inter-equipment communication channel. Each bus slave interface is substantially electrically identical to each slave interface.

Abstract: A personal medication in storage dispensing unit is provided for receiving and storing medication, vitamins, minerals, phytochemicals, pills capsules, gel tablets and the like in a manner which is easily accessible and which is conducive to inclusion within a medication regimen system. A medication regimen monitor can be included in this system in order to be programmed to signal proper medication dosage times. The monitor preferably provides non-compliance information, preferably information which persists and which designates which portion of the medication regimen was not complied with. The system also can include a holder for multiple storing and dispensing units in an ordered fashion consistent with daily requirements of the medication regimen.

Abstract: The system for controlling and tracking medical items (830) includes one or more computers and associated data stores including information concerning authorized users, patients, medical items that have been prescribed for patients, medical items available, storage locations for medical items and events associated with receiving, dispensing, taking and returning medical items for patients. Authorized users taking medical items from storage locations are enabled to provide inputs through a display terminal (880) to indicate the taking of medical items for patients. Medical items are enabled to be taken from a plurality of storage cabinets (878). Storage cabinets are operative so that users may be guided to find a selected medical item for which corresponding information is input at an associated display terminal. Alternatively, users are enabled to gain access to the interior of the cabinet and indicate through appropriate inputs, the types and quantities of items that are being taken.

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: 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: 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 component-lack advance notice method, a component-lack advance notice apparatus, and a component mounting apparatus including the component-lack advance notice apparatus, wherein a producible count determination part and advance notice parts are provided, so that an advance notice time from an advance notice of a lack of components to an actual occurrence of a lack of components is set beforehand. The producible count determination part obtains each advance notice remaining count of components to be supplied within the advance notice time from each component feed part on the basis of the advance notice time, and notifies a lack of components in advance on the basis of the advance notice remaining count.

Abstract: An equipment for the management of hospital activities as medical tests and pharmacological treatment in conditions of certainty against the mistaking of patients is described. The equipment comprises a bed unit (1) associated with the bed of each patient, at least one cabinet unit (2) associated with every ward and a computerised tray cart (3) hat is movable among said units (1, 2). The computerised tray cart (3) comprises a computer (10) provided with display, a reader (11) of computer data connected with said computer (10) and approachable to the bed of the patient for the reading of computer data and their transfer to said computer (10), a plurality of drawers (14-16) with opening controlled by said computer (10), and a printer (17) controlled by said computer (10). The bed unit (1) comprises a display (18) connected with a computer for the visualisation of data relative to the patient.