Automated pill dispensing systems configured for detecting bottles in output chutes and related methods of operation
US8224482B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 8, 2009 |
| Grant date | Jul 17, 2012 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 18, 2030 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG07F11/62
- WIPO fieldControl
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An automated pill dispensing system includes an output chute configured to hold pill-containing vials and an optical sensor located at a predetermined location in the output chute. The optical sensor includes an optical emitter and an optical detector configured to be operated cooperatively to output a detection signal indicating a presence or absence of a vial at the predetermined location of the output chute. A controller is coupled to the optical sensor and is configured to receive the detection signal therefrom, detect the presence or absence of the vial at the predetermined location of the output chute in response to the detection signal, and control a next depositing event whereby a next vial is deposited in the output chute responsive to the detection. Related methods of operation are also discussed.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.