Abstract: A dispenser for dispensing and a method of dispensing an ingredient for a machine. An ingredient feed mechanism dispenses the ingredient to the machine. A controller is capable of controlling an amount of the ingredient delivered to the machine by varying an amount of time the ingredient feed mechanism is active. The controller has a demand mode which varies the amount of time the ingredient feed mechanism is active as a function of a parameter obtained from the machine. The controller compares the amount of time the ingredient feed mechanism is active with a reference value and switches to a timed mode if the amount of time deviates from the reference value. The controller may have an initial training mode which measures the amount of time the ingredient feed mechanism is active establishes the reference value based upon the amount of time the ingredient feed mechanism is active.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for controlled dispensing of consumable supply items, such as office supplies, wherein the quantity of items added or removed from the apparatus is determined by sensing a change in weight of items within the apparatus. The apparatus may be in the form of a cabinet having a plurality of doors, each door having a secured position preventing access to the items within the cabinet. The cabinet may be configured to unlock less than all of the doors to allow limited access to the items based on various factors, such as user identification and item cost.

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 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 system for dispensing pill- or capsule-form medications (61) in desired doses (60). The system comprises a dispensing device (35), which includes a cartridge (20, 40) rotatable relative to a housing or frame (10) and provided with discrete dosage compartments (27, 47) for desired doses of medication. The cartridge (20, 40) is manipulated by elements (18, 18a, 18b; 14a, 14b, 15, 18, 19), whereby each separate dosage compartment (27, 47) is rotatable relative to the housing or frame (10) to a dispensing point (4, 12) for the dose of medication (60). A signalling device (75, 76) producing a sound and/or light signal activates at pre-programmed times. An electronics unit (19, 55) containing a dispensing program is reprogrammable by means of an external programming device (36, 66, 101, 102).

Abstract: An inspection equipment integrity system uses independent sensors and processing capabilities to determine the integrity of inspection equipment. The sensors detect the presence of packages at predetermined positions. The system further receives input from the inspection equipment regarding decisions made during inspection of the packages. The system uses the position information and inputs from the inspection equipment to determine the integrity of the inspection equipment. A further sensor determines the integrity of inspection equipment used to redirect packages based on decisions made by the inspection equipment.

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: A method of operating a medicament dispenser for use with a container for holding medicament to be used in the treatment of a patient, said dispenser comprising means for reading first data from said medicament container. A data communication link is used for remotely transmitting second data, derived from said first data, to a node in a communications network via said data communications link.

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: The present invention describes various methods and apparatus to increase efficiency and sales of a Newspaper Rack. Several sensors are positioned throughout the Newspaper Rack to monitor when the remaining inventory reaches a predetermined quantity or is depleted. A logic circuit monitors the sensors and when the sensors change state, a signal is transmitted to a central location. The central location may add time-stamping, reference the location, and compile the information into a database. The central location notifies the proper party to service the Newspaper Rack. The Newspaper Rack can include various mechanisms to stimulate customers into purchasing a Newspaper, such as a visual display or audible means. The stimulating information can be obtained and/or changed using wireless transmission to a receiver. The Newspaper Rack can include external monitoring devices to gather information for traffic flow, weather, or other desirable information.

Abstract: The present invention provides for a vending system wherein a monitoring system verifies that a product ordered by a vending customer is actually delivered through a delivery area to the customer. If the product ordered is unavailable either because of an out of stock situation or a blockage of the delivery path for that product, the present invention allows the customer to request a refund or order a second product. Additionally, the present invention helps to prevent theft of product from the vending system.

Abstract: Transaction management method in an intermediate server intermediates a transaction between a seller terminal and a purchaser terminal. The method includes storing a transaction procedure having a plurality of procedures in a predetermined order for each transaction type, and the attribute information regarding the data to be transmitted or received in each of the plurality of procedures, and transmitting or receiving the data to be transmitted or received between the seller terminal and the purchaser terminal in accordance with the transaction procedure determined by a transaction type and its attribute information in the transaction between the seller terminal and the purchaser terminal.

Abstract: Apparatus for placement of an optical component on a substrate. The apparatus includes a machine vision system for locating the optical component on the substrate, a contact determiner for determining contact therebetween, and a robot for contacting the optical component and the substrate with one another, and for moving the optical component and the substrate relative to one another under guidance from the machine vision system toward a desired position, wherein the optical component and the substrate contact one another for a portion of the movement. A method includes contacting the optical component with the substrate, locating the optical component on the substrate, and moving the optical component and the substrate relative to one another toward a desired position of the optical component on the substrate, wherein the optical component and the substrate contact one another for a portion of the moving.

Abstract: A pharmaceutical system and method of operation in which a single remote professional provides pharmaceutical care and oversight of multiple local pharmacies. A control location is connected through an electronic network to one or more individual pharmacies, each of which may be located at a different physical site. Each individual pharmacy includes one or more drug preparation areas, and one or more self-service or staffed customer terminals. A drug preparation area includes a robot, which is adapted to prepare prescriptions or other items, and which is connected by a pneumatic delivery system to one or more customer terminals within the pharmacy.

Abstract: This embodiment relates generally to a foam dispensing system, and more particularly to an automated monitoring and diagnostic system for use with foam dispensing systems that permits remote control of the dispensing of foam. A control console is provided that is interconnected, preferably by way of a high-speed data link, with a foam dispenser, the A and B foam component pumps, a power source and controller, and a gateway. The console preferably includes a plurality of individual control circuits, typically disposed within one or more integrated circuits. The console may instead, or additionally, include software to perform some or all of the data exchange functions. The control circuits and/or software are preferably disposed within modules that are mounted to various components of the system. The modules may include one or more sensors operatively connected to the controller that monitor and record operational parameters.

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 collating unit (10) for use with a control center (12) cooperating with an automatic dispensing system (“ADS”) (14) for automatic storage of prescription containers dispensed from the ADS (14).

Abstract: A control system for a fuel dispensing system and a method for simultaneously refueling from at least two fuel dispensers to provide a single transaction total wherein the two fuel dispensers are a master/satellite fuel dispenser pair. A first communication means enables the dispenser control circuitry in the master dispenser to control the dispensing of fuel from the satellite dispenser. A second communication means enables the dispenser control circuitry to receive data regarding the amount of fuel dispensed by the satellite dispenser. A combination means generally associated with the dispenser control circuitry combines the total amount of fuel dispensed from the master/satellite fuel dispenser pair to a single vehicle. A device mounted on the master dispenser displays the total volume and price for the customer as a single transaction.

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: A method and apparatus for controlled dispensing of consumable supply items, such as office supplies, wherein the quantity of items added or removed from the apparatus is determined by sensing a change in weight of items within the apparatus. The apparatus may be in the form of a cabinet having a plurality of doors, each door having a secured position preventing access to the items within the cabinet. The cabinet may be configured to unlock less than all of the doors to allow limited access to the items based on various factors, such as user identification and item cost.

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: The present invention is directed to a method of dispensing or administering medications which requires prompting the user for a reason if the user wants to dispense or intends to administer a medication that is not on the patient's medication profile. For example, a patient may be in severe discomfort, or some other condition exists, that requires dispensing and administration of a medication not approved by a pharmacist for the patient. The method prompts the user to supply a reason (exception) for the dispensing or administering that can be used to create an audit trail. The method may include identifying a patient, accessing a medication profile for the identified patient, selecting a medication for the identified patient, the selected medication not having been reviewed against the patient's medication profile, prompting the user to identify an exception, and reviewing the exception to determine its acceptability.

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 vending system which includes a number of vending machines and a central audit unit. The audit unit receives information pertaining to the operation of the vending machines and uses this information to model the operation of each machine over time. The model is then used to identify abnormal deviations in states of the vending machines such as a change in the ingredient consumption per dispensed product.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method, preferably practiced on a computer controlled dispensing apparatus, comprising: accessing (normally by logging on) the dispensing apparatus; identifying a patient; identifying a medication to dispense for the identified patient, the medication not having been reviewed against the patient's medication profile; prompting the user to identify an exception; and either dispensing the medication or storing the request to dispense in response to the identified exception. The method may further include transferring the plurality of override requests and override events into a database of pharmacy orders. The requests, events, and orders may be sorted according to a predetermined criterion, and presented to a pharmacist for review.

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 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: 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 medicine-dispensing system has a medication reminder to assist the patient in following a drug regimen. In an example embodiment, a medication reminder comprises a timer programmable to a predetermined interval. A user-alert is responsive to the timer, reminding the user to take a dose of medicine at the predetermined interval. A sensor detects whether a dose of medicine has been taken and a dose-indication informs the user of the time since a last medication. The dose indication further informs the user as to whether to take a next medication dose. Time of the last dose is determined by the timer receiving a signal from the sensor. A communications interface enables programming of a parameter associated with administering a medication.

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 self-service kiosk having a walk-in enclosure, interactive selection panel, multi-section inventory storage area for dispensing items and accepting returns. User selections are entered via instructions entered at an interactive panel containing a selection menu of graphical icons and messages. A programmable controller monitors entered identification data and payments to control the dispensing and return of selected items from assigned storage locations via X-Y-Z track driven, transfer and end effect assemblies. Associated software manages payment transactions via a bill receiver, coin changer, credit card verifier, and receipt printer and develops associated administrative inventory status reports. One end effect includes a hook that interconnects to storage trays. The end effect extends and retracts the trays onto a support platform and conveys the trays and items back and forth from the storage space.

Abstract: The automated parts dispensing system and method includes a dispensing device in communication with a parts vending system. The dispensing device is one of the commonly known machine for dispensing parts, tools, foods, novelty items and other such items which generally use a helical coil or robotic delivery system. The particular device disclosed is a carrousel or drum type device. The dispensing device is modified to detect the rotation and position of the drum element and to detect the delivery of parts. The parts vending system controls and monitors the dispensing device or devices to assure proper operation and authorization of users. The user is aided in the requesting for parts by the correlating of vehicle identification number and identified operations or part type. This relieves the user of the task of identifying a particular configuration of part where vehicle models may have variations by vehicle identification numbers, etc.

Abstract: A land marking device is disclosed. The land marking device is capable of physically marking a point on the ground for the air.

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.

Abstract: A fuel dispenser for service stations which comprises an integrated catastrophic protection system. The dispenser comprises a leak detector, an impact (or displacement) sensor, and a heat sensor for detecting dangerous conditions in or around the dispenser. The sensors may be connected to a processor within the dispenser or may send signals to a remote processor. Upon detection of any of the dangerous conditions, a system controller can take appropriate action to shut down part or all of the fuel system in the facility to avoid a fuel catastrophe.

Abstract: The present invention relates to systems and methods for the remote dispensing of packaged and non-packaged medical products using networked communications systems. A preferred embodiment of the invention utilizes a network to provide for the secure delivery of confidential patient information and the sending of dispense instructions to a remote dispensing station. A preferred embodiment of the present invention relates to systems and methods of dispensing samples of drugs or other medical products. Another preferred embodiment of the invention provides a system and method for dispensing non-prescription medications.

Abstract: A fuel dispenser for service stations which comprises an integrated catastrophic protection system. The dispenser comprises a leak detector, an impact (or displacement) sensor, and a heat sensor for detecting dangerous conditions in or around the dispenser. The sensors may be connected to a processor within the dispenser or may send signals to a remote processor. Upon detection of any of the dangerous conditions, a system controller can take appropriate action to shut down part or all of the fuel system in the facility to avoid a fuel catastrophe.

Abstract: A printing system includes a staple sensor that senses a low staple condition in a stapling device. A low staple message is generated in response to sensing the low staple condition in the stapling device. The printing system identifies a computing device designated to manage the replacement of staples. The low staple message is then communicated to the identified computing device. The computing device contains an application capable of determining whether replacement staples are in stock and capable of ordering more staples if replacement staples are not in stock.

Abstract: A vending machine is provided with a cabinet having a plurality of inclined, vertically spaced shelves. The shelves are able to selectively feed a beverage container to an elevator which is located adjacent an interior, right side wall of the cabinet of vending machine. A beverage container is dispensed by an escapement block of a shelf onto the elevator. The elevator vertically moves the beverage container, and then dispenses the beverage container to a delivery mechanism which gently lowers the beverage container to a delivery port which communicates with the exterior of the vending machine. The shelves in the cabinet are readily reconfigurable such that their vertical spacing within the cabinet can be easily altered. The escapement blocks of the shelves are mechanically activated to dispense a beverage container by an activation device on the elevator. Thus, electrical power and control signals for the individual shelves are not necessary.

Abstract: The present invention provides apparatuses and methods for marking components, supplies and kits of drug administration devices and other medical systems with quality assurance information. The invention also provides apparatuses and methods for tracking time of use of such components, supplies and kits and various apparatuses and methods for preventing use or reuse of tainted, recalled or unrecognized components, supplies and kits. Quality assurance markers (QAMs) are described which store information regarding the identity and manufacturer of disposable components, supplies and kits. The invention utilizes several QAM modalities, such as, among others, 1-D and 2-D bar codes, 1-D and 2-D symbologies, holograms, written text, radio frequency identification devices (RFIDs), integrated chip smart cards, and EEPROMs.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for gathering product level profile information from different, spaced apart fueling locations networked together to a server through the Internet. A RLM monitors the data wire between the dispensers and dispenser controller to determine the amount of fuel dispensed and it stores this information in memory. The RLM is further interfaced to the ATG to determine the amount of product remaining in the USTs, and it tracts fuel additions to the USTs from delivery trucks. This information is stored in a data file in the RLM, and is linked together along with a site identifier to form a data packet for transmission. A communication network interconnects the RLMs of the remote fueling sites to a server. The server maintains a first database of routing numbers for the remote sites, and a second database of product level information for each remote site. The server individually polls the remote sites to obtain the data packet.

Abstract: A medicine-dispensing system has a medication reminder to assist the patient in following a drug regimen. In an example embodiment, a medication reminder comprises a timer programmable to a predetermined interval. A user-alert is responsive to the timer, reminding the user to take a dose of medicine at the predetermined interval. A sensor detects whether a dose of medicine has been taken and a dose-indication informs the user of the time since a last medication. The dose indication further informs the user as to whether to take a next medication dose. Time of the last dose is determined by the timer receiving a signal from the sensor. A communications interface enables programming of a parameter associated with administering a medication.