Controlled dispensing system and method
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United States of America Patent
Stats
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Jul 27, 1999
Grant Date -
N/A
app pub date -
Aug 20, 1997
filing date -
Aug 20, 1997
priority date (Note) -
In Force
status (Latency Note)
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Abstract
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.
First Claim
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- 15 United States
- 10 France
- 8 Japan
- 7 China
- 5 Korea
- 2 Other
Patent Owner(s)
| Patent Owner | Address | |
|---|---|---|
| OMNICELL INC | 500 CRANBERRY WOODS DRIVE CRANBERRY TOWNSHIP PA 16066 |
International Classification(s)
Inventor(s)
| Inventor Name | Address | # of filed Patents | Total Citations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Godlewski, Peter P | San Carlos, CA | 5 | 1503 |
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| Fee | Large entity fee | small entity fee | micro entity fee | due date |
|---|
| Fee | Large entity fee | small entity fee | micro entity fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Surcharge after expiration - Late payment is unavoidable | $700.00 | $350.00 | $175.00 |
| Surcharge after expiration - Late payment is unintentional | $1,640.00 | $820.00 | $410.00 |
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