Tablet dispenser with locking means
US5108006A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 27, 1990 |
| Grant date | Apr 28, 1992 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 27, 2010 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB65D2583/0481
- WIPO fieldHandling
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A tablet dispensing container comprehending a tubular sleeve, a reciprocating element and a locking mechanism. The tubular sleeve forms the container and has two opposing openings therein; a dispensing opening in the lower end and a reciprocating element opening in the upper end. The reciprocating element is attached to the tubular sleeve and is biased toward the upper end. A user manually depresses the reciprocating element which forces the end with the tablet accommodating mechanism through the dispensing opening thereby dispensing a tablet. A locking mechanism prevents the reciprocating element from reciprocating when in a locked position. The locking mechanism permits reciprocation of the reciprocating element when in the unlocked position. The locking mechanism is adapted to remain in either the locked or the unlocked position until manually moved to the other position. Preferably, the locking mechanism includes a visual signal which indicates when the locking mechanism is in the unlocked position. Even more preferably, the locking mechanism also includes tactile and audible signals indicating arrival of the locking mechansim at the unlocked position.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.