Device for staging and dispensing tablets useful in system and method for dispensing prescriptions
US8714405B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 5, 2008 |
| Grant date | May 6, 2014 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 25, 2031 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG07F17/0092
- WIPO fieldControl
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A chute assembly for an object dispensing apparatus includes: a chute configured at a first end to attach to and convey objects from an object dispenser; a funnel having an inlet that merges with a second end of the chute and an outlet; a door attached to the funnel, the door being movable between a closed position, in which the door covers the funnel outlet and prevents access to objects within the funnel, and an open position, in which the door does not cover the funnel outlet and allows access to objects within the funnel; an object agitation unit configured to agitate objects in the funnel to prevent such objects from jamming in the funnel; and a locking unit associated with the door that prevents the door from moving to the open position without authorization.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.