초록 ▼

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

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.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] An apparatus for dispensing articles, the apparatus comprising:a cabinet defining an enclosure;at least one drawer movably attached to the cabinet, the drawer including an array of compartments;at least one lid slidably attached to the drawer to prevent access to the comp

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] An apparatus for dispensing articles, the apparatus comprising:a cabinet defining an enclosure;at least one drawer movably attached to the cabinet, the drawer including an array of compartments;at least one lid slidably attached to the drawer to prevent access to the compartments when positioned over the compartments, wherein the lid may be slid relative to the drawer to sequentially expose the compartments;a locking mechanism which is engageable with the lid to selectively prevent movement of the lid relative to the compartments;a distance sensor for detecting the distance traveled by the lid relative to the drawer; anda controller in communication with the locking mechanism and the distance sensor, wherein the controller may send a signal to actuate the locking mechanism after the lid has been moved to expose a first one of the compartments having a desired article, and wherein access to the next sequential compartments in the array is prevented by the lid.