Controlled dispensing system and method

Number of patents in Portfolio can not be more than 2000

United States of America Patent

PATENT NO 5927540
SERIAL NO

08915470

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ATTORNEY / AGENT: (SPONSORED)

Importance

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Abstract

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The present invention provides apparatus and methods for dispensing articles. In one exemplary embodiment, an apparatus comprises a cabinet defining an enclosure and at least one drawer is attached to the cabinet. The drawer slides in and out of the cabinet and contains an array of compartments. At least one lid is provided and is configured to slide back and forth with respect to the drawer. Each drawer further includes a distance sensor for detecting the distance traveled by the lid relative to the drawer. A controller is placed in communication with both the locking mechanism and the distance sensor. The controller sends a signal to actuate the locking mechanism after the lid has been moved to expose a desired compartment. In this manner, the lid can be moved to allow access to a compartment containing a desired article or medical supply. The locking mechanism prevents further movement of the lid, thereby preventing access to any additional compartments.

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Patent Owner(s)

Patent OwnerAddress
OMNICELL INC500 CRANBERRY WOODS DRIVE CRANBERRY TOWNSHIP PA 16066

International Classification(s)

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Inventor(s)

Inventor Name Address # of filed Patents Total Citations
Godlewski, Peter P San Carlos, CA 5 1503

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