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  • 专利说明
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    • 专利摘要:
    REFRIGERATED DISPENSING SYSTEM WITH CONTROLLED STOCK. This is a product for sale refrigerator for dispensing pharmaceutical products, such as vials, bottles, syringes and the like, at a point of distribution, for example, a doctor's office or pharmacy. The refrigerator for products for sale comprises a first product dispenser for one type of package and a second product dispenser for a second type of package. Product can be removed from a dispenser drawer, but cannot be put back into the dispenser via the drawer. Product dispensers are filled through openings that are not accessible during normal operations, but are accessible during refill procedures. The cooler may include a shelf where products that are erroneously pulled from the product dispenser or that contain multiple doses of the contents thereof can be placed for temporary storage. In some embodiments, the refrigerator comprises a chilled compartment and a freezer compartment.
    公开号:BR112015026987B1
    申请号:R112015026987-7
    申请日:2014-04-23
    公开日:2022-02-01
    发明作者:Mark T. Cosgrove；Paul Knox
    申请人:Minibar Systems；
    IPC主号:
    专利说明:

    CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED ORDERS
    [0001] This application claims priority under Title 35, paragraph 119(e), of the United States Code of Interim Application Serial No. US 61/815,045 entitled "CONTROLLED INVENTORY REFRIGERATED DISPENSING SYSTEM" filed April 23, 2013 , whose descriptive report is incorporated in this document by way of reference in its entirety. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION FIELD OF THE INVENTION
    [0002] This invention relates generally to refrigerated product storage and dispensing, and more particularly to a refrigeration system for storing products (such as pharmaceuticals) and dispensing such products in a controlled manner that allows for automatic tracking. of stock dispensed by and held within the refrigerated dispensing unit. BACKGROUND
    [0003] Pharmaceuticals are distributed in many different ways. In many cases, the pharmaceutical product must be kept at a specific temperature to ensure that the active ingredients in the pharmaceutical product retain chemical properties. For example, some vaccines and antibiotics must be kept refrigerated to ensure they maintain their pharmaceutical capabilities. In dispensaries, whether pharmacies or doctors' offices, these drug products are typically kept in traditional refrigerators. There is a minimal level of security and keeping an inventory of the products can be a tedious and laborious endeavor.
    [0004] Existing refrigerators and other such containers do not provide a physician or pharmacist with an easy and safe method of dispensing medications that require refrigeration. Thus, there is a need for a refrigerated container that allows physicians, pharmacists and other individuals responsible for dispensing medication to easily dispense the products and maintain an accurate inventory of the products. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
    [0005] The present invention addresses the problems described above and other issues associated with the traditional storage of refrigerated products that require controlled inventory. In one embodiment, a cooler for goods on sale is provided which comprises a control compartment, which comprises a processor configured to manage the cooler for goods on sale; a first dispensing shelf communicatively connected with said control compartment; a first product dispenser on the first dispensing shelf and communicatively connected to the first dispensing shelf or control compartment, comprising a storage compartment for a first product and a first dispensing drawer for dispensing the first product, wherein the first product cannot be put back into the first product dispenser via the dispensing drawer; a second dispensing shelf communicatively connected to the control compartment; a second product dispenser on the second dispensing shelf and communicatively connected to the dispensing shelf or control compartment, comprising storage compartment for a second product and a second dispensing drawer for dispensing the second product, wherein the second product product cannot be put back into the second product dispenser via the dispensing drawer; and a third dispensing shelf, wherein the third dispensing shelf is capable of storing said first or second product after said first or second product is dispensed from the first product dispenser or second product dispenser. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
    [0006] The present invention and various aspects, features and advantages provided therein are described in detail below with reference to exemplary and non-limiting embodiments and with reference to the drawings, which form part of this specification and provide graphical views of certain exemplary embodiments. The following is a brief description of the drawings:
    [0007] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the present invention.
    [0008] Figure 1 A is a front perspective view of a refrigerator for products on sale.
    [0009] Figure 1B is a rear perspective view of a refrigerator for products on sale.
    [0010] Figure 1C is a perspective view of the refrigerator for products on sale with the door open.
    [0011] Figure 1D is a front view of the refrigerator for products for sale with the door open.
    [0012] Figure 2 is a block diagram of the control and cooled compartment.
    [0013] Figure 3A is a perspective view of a first product dispenser.
    [0014] Figure 3B is a left side view of a first product dispenser.
    [0015] Figure 3C is a right side view of a first product dispenser.
    [0016] Figure 3D is a base view of a first product dispenser.
    [0017] Figure 3E is a perspective view of a first product dispenser without a cover.
    [0018] Figure 3F is a right side view of a first product dispenser without a cover.
    [0019] Figure 3G is a base view of a first product dispenser without a cover.
    [0020] Figure 3H is a perspective longitudinal cross-section of a first product dispenser. Figure 31 is a left side cross-section of a first product dispenser.
    [0021] Figure 4A is a perspective view of a second product dispenser with a closed drawer. Figure 4B is a perspective view of the second product dispenser with the drawer partially open.
    [0022] Figure 4C is a left side view of the second product dispenser with a closed drawer. Figure 4D is a left side cross-sectional view of the second product dispenser with a closed drawer.
    [0023] Figure 4E is a left side cross-sectional view of the second product dispenser with the drawer partially open.
    [0024] Figure 4F is a left side cross-sectional view of the second product dispenser with the drawer fully open.
    [0025] Figure 4G is a left side cross-sectional view of the second product dispenser with the drawer fully open and the box removed.
    [0026] Figure 4H is a base view of the box dispenser.
    [0027] Figure 4I is a top cross-sectional view of the Second product dispenser showing the tray and pickup lever mechanism.
    [0028] Figure 5 is a block diagram of the freezer compartment.
    [0029] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of a system according to an embodiment of the refrigerator for products on sale.
    [0030] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of a network for deploying a system in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
    [0031] Figure 8 is a flow diagram of a process for dispensing products from the refrigerator to products on sale. DETAILED DESCRIPTION
    [0032] The invention summarized above can be better understood by referring to the following description, which should be read in conjunction with the appended claims and drawings in which like numeral references are used for like parts. The following description is of a particular embodiment of the invention, set forth to enable a person to practice an implementation of the invention, and is not intended to limit the preferred embodiment, but to serve as a particular example thereof. Those skilled in the art should appreciate that they can readily use the concept and specific embodiments disclosed as a basis for modifying or designing other methods and systems to accomplish the same purposes as the present invention. Those skilled in the art should also understand that such equivalent assemblies do not depart from the spirit and scope of the invention in its broadest form.
    [0033] First, with reference to Figure 1, an exemplary system, in accordance with certain aspects of an embodiment of the invention, consists of a retail refrigerator 100, a communication interface, and a server. The system operates by one person removing a product from a chilled compartment 110 or a freezer compartment 120 in the for-sales refrigerator 100. A control compartment 115 records the transaction in the electronics thereof. Periodically, the control compartment 115 uses the communication interface to send transaction data along with events (eg, temperature history, power interruption, alarms, etc.) to the server. The server then communicates with external entities for inventory control, maintenance, alarms, billing and any other essential tasks. A refill technician or specialist communicates with the for-sale refrigerator 100 using the display and numeric keypad in the control compartment 115 or a web-enabled device to complete the refill cycle as more fully described below.
    [0034] As shown in the block diagram of Figure 1 and Figures 1A and 1B, a retail refrigerator 100, in accordance with certain aspects of an embodiment of the invention, generally comprises a chilled compartment 110, a door 105 , and a control compartment 115. The outer door 105 is provided with an electrical or mechanical lock, and is used to control access to products stored in the refrigerator for products for sale 100. If an electrical lock is provided, such an electrical lock is preferably controlled by a processor platform in control compartment 115 after a valid access code is entered or, as described more fully below, when specific events occur which require the door to be locked or unlocked.
    [0035] The compartments are interconnected by a cabling system for communication and power.
    [0036] Figures 1C and 1D show the for-sale refrigerator 100 with the door 105 thereof open. In some embodiments, the merchandise cooler 100 additionally comprises a freezer compartment 120. The merchandise cooler 100 requires only the control compartment 115 and the chilled compartment 110. The freezer compartment 120 is optional, and can be an extension module, but it can also be an integral part of the cooler for products for sale 100. Optionally, the compartments can be stacked and can be stacked in an optional dry storage rack.
    [0037] Control compartment 115 provides a user interface that a pharmacist, physician or other user can use to manage the refrigerator for products on sale. In accordance with certain aspects of an embodiment of the invention, the control compartment 115 includes a display 130 and a user input device 140. The display 130 may be an LCD, and the user input device may be a numeric keypad. . Optionally, user input device 140 and display 130 may be combined into a touch sensitive screen as will be recognized by a person of ordinary skill in the art. Control compartment 115 may also optionally include one or more of the following: an alarm emitter, a camera for a bar code reader, a USB communications interface, an external communications interface (Ethernet, PLC, POTS, Cellular, Satellite, WiFi, etc.), and an internal communications interface (12C and GPIO) for chilled compartment 110 and freezer compartment 120 (if fitted), all controlled by a processor platform.
    [0038] Control compartment processor platform 115 includes a processor, memory, RTC, auxiliary battery, and interfaces necessary to communicate with all hardware. The processor platform may use a Linux OS with an Android OS and application running on it, although alternative operating systems may be employed. Figure 2 provides a schematic diagram of the electrical connections of an exemplary control compartment 115.
    [0039] Preferably, all control and communications are handled by the control compartment 115. Users communicate with the refrigerator for products for sale 100 through the user interface, e.g. numeric keypad 140 and LCD 130, touch screen, or web-enabled device such as a smart phone, iPhone, tablet, etc. communications with a server and external users are performed through the external communications interface. The user interface can be managed through a mobile device app to control the screens, touchscreen and numeric keypad. The same mobile application or a remote website can be used on a mobile device and thus the user does not have to be located with the for-sale refrigerator 100 in order to effect such control. The mobile app or remote website makes it possible for any off-the-shelf device to interact with the on-sale refrigerator 100 or the system that includes a on-sale refrigerator 100.
    [0040] An alarm trigger is used to notify local users that a critical event (no power, temperature out of range, etc.) has occurred and a user is required to service the refrigerator for products on sale 100. The user can silence the alarm through LCD 130 and touch screen. A USB interface preferably provides a maintenance port for diagnostics and emergency data downloads. It is envisaged that the interface can be any port, USB or otherwise, which allows physical electronic access to refrigerator components for products on sale 100, e.g. Ethernet port, HDMI, etc. It can also be used to configure the refrigerator for 100 products for sale and for manufacturing assistance. A barcode scanner, consisting of a camera, camera interface, and an application to manage the scanner, e.g. a mobile device or wireless device, can be used to read data from products to be stored in the chilled compartment. 110 or freezer compartment 120. Typical data may include product type, expiration date and lot code.
    [0041] The main power supply is monitored to determine the type of current being supplied, eg AC or DC, the current voltage, and the current battery status. The interface is also used to control switching between AC and a battery source for battery testing and during loss of AC power. Switching is also used to emit charge from the cooler if the battery supply is low. An auxiliary power supply on the processor board consisting of a battery or supercapacitor is used in the event that the main power supply is not present. In the event that the main power source is not present, the software application will load the volatile data into non-volatile memory (Flash, MRAM, FRAM, EEPROM, etc.) using this auxiliary power supply.
    [0042] Internal communications with chilled compartment 110 and freezer compartment 120 can be handled via 12C of GPIO. I2C is preferably used for main control and status communications. GPIO is preferably used for real-time interrupts and scheduling.
    [0043] Cooled compartment 110 consists of an enclosure with or without a cooler (most preferably ammonia absorption, but in certain embodiments a compressor will be used). In accordance with certain aspects of an embodiment of the invention, and with particular reference to Figure 1D, the cooled compartment 110 is divided into internal compartments 150, 151, 152 and 153 for product storage. Each storage compartment may include storage compartment doors 160, 161, 162 and 163. The storage compartment or interior doors 160, 161, 162 and 163 may include an electrical or mechanical lock, and are used to hold the dispensers in place. and to control access to fill openings 320 (Figures 3A-3I), 415 (Figures 4A-4I) of product dispensers 190, 191. Doors 160, 161, 162, and 163 have access doors to internal compartments 150, 151, 152 and 153 and dispensers 190, 191 for dispensing product. Ports 160, 161, 162 and 163 are opened to gain access to dispensers 190, 191 for refilling. The electrical lock is controlled by the processor platform in control compartment 115 and can be opened after a valid access code is entered.
    [0044] In some cases, one or more storage compartment doors may be joined together. For example, as shown in Figure 1D, the storage compartment door 160 and 161 can be constructed as a single structure that has a space for dispensing product. Similarly, storage compartment door 162 and 163 may be constructed as a single composition. Cooled compartment 110 may also include a temporary storage drawer 170. The temporary storage drawer 170 may be used to place product packages that have been mistakenly removed from the dispenser compartments 190,191. This is to keep the product temperature in a safe condition until its eventual use. During a refill cycle, the product will be reconciled.
    [0045] With continued reference to Figure 1D, each inner compartment 150, 151, 152 and 153 additionally comprises a dispensing shelf 180, 181, 182 and 183. All dispensing shelves 180, 181, 182 and 183 may have capacities of capture as more fully described below. Optionally, one or more of the dispensing shelves (e.g., dispensing shelf 182) do not have pickup capabilities. Additional components of the 110 chilled compartment include temperature-sensing elements, LEDs, electrical locks, a door sensor, a fan, a processor-controlled thermostat, and a UPS power supply.
    [0046] A rear panel is located at the rear of chilled compartment 110, and dispensing shelves 180, 181, 182 and 183 with pickup capabilities can be plugged into the rear panel. The rear panel temporarily stores the communication signals between pickup shelves 180, 181, 182, and 183 and the processor platform in control compartment 115. The temperature sensors on the rear panel are read by the processor platform similar to temperature sensors. on the pickup shelves. Controls for a fan and door latches are preferably located on the rear panel and are communicating with the processor platform. The port sensor logic is preferably stored on the back panel for the processor platform to access. Control logic on the back panel can determine which shelf, device, or freezer interface the processor platform communicates with. Power from the main power supply is distributed on the rear panel to pickup shelves 180, 181, 182 and 183 and logic. Power is reduced on the backplane for the processor platform in control bay 115.
    [0047] One or more of the dispensing shelves 180, 182, 183 and 184 are configured to serve as docks for product dispensers 190, 191. The dispenser, for example 190, is located on top of a dispensing shelf, eg 180, with mechanical contacts to activate sensors on the shelf (discussed in more detail below). In accordance with certain aspects of an embodiment of the invention, the dispensing shelf, e.g. 180, has several sensor plates under each product dispenser 190, 191. The dispensing shelf 180 preferably has at least three sensor plates facing toward each other. up in a configuration that allows for product and drawer pickup as described in more detail below. Sensor boards are connected to a processor in dispensing shelf 180 or directly to the processor platform in control compartment 115 through the rear panel. Sensors can be capacitive, infrared or mechanical. A capture application running on the processor detects the presence or absence of product on that particular sensor. It can also detect the mechanical position of different parts of the dispenser. This data is sent to the processor platform in control compartment 115 to determine if the product has been removed or if there is a malfunction. Data from a digital temperature sensor in capture shelf 180 is also sent to the processor platform in control compartment 180 to be used to control a heater/cooler, for historical data for product aging, and for alarms.
    [0048] A first product dispenser 190 with interchangeable chutes, as shown in Figures 3A through 3F, is used to dispense a first type of product package. The first product dispenser 190 may be configured to dispense vials 310. As used in this specification, the term "bottle" means a cylindrical container. In some cases, the vial may be a drug bottle with a cap. In other cases, the vial may be a cylindrical container comprising a liquid that can be drawn out by syringe or poured. In still further cases, vial 310 may be a medication tube or ampoule as recognized by an individual of ordinary skill. Figures 3A to 3D show various views of the first product dispenser 190 that include the first product dispenser cover 320. Figures 3D to 3F show the first product dispenser 190 without the dispenser cover 320. The first product dispenser 190 has a mechanism for refilling and dispensing a product contained in vials 310. The refilling mechanism 320 is on top of the first product dispenser 190 and is activated by pressing the finger buttons 330, 331 and pulling the mechanism 320 towards the front of the first product dispenser 190. When mechanism 320 is engaged, inner springs 340, 341 apply pressure to chutes 350, 351 so that first products 190 can be properly loaded. When the mechanism 320 is pushed back to the original position, the inner springs 340, 341 release pressure on the ramps 351, 350 to let the bottles 310 roll into the dispensing position.
    [0049] In order to dispense a product, the user pulls out the dispenser drawer 360 at the base of the first product dispenser 190 and a product 310 is released into the dispenser drawer 360 for removal. The dispenser drawer mechanism 360 only allows one product 310 to be removed and will not allow the product 310 to be inserted into the first product dispenser 190 through the drawer. If product 310 is left in dispenser drawer 190 when open, dispenser drawer 190 will not close, and thus refrigerator door 105 for for-sale products 100 will not close either. Internal ramps 350, 351 are interchangeable to allow different bottle sizes to be used in the first product dispenser 190.
    [0050] Figures 3H and 3I show the open (3H) and closed (3I) configurations of the first product dispenser 190. When the dispenser drawer 360 is closed, a guard 370 is up, preventing bottles 310 from exiting the compartment of dispenser drawer 360. Two notches 374, 375 (shown in Figure 3E) meet along guides 376, 377 on dispenser drawer 360 raising guard 370 when dispenser drawer 360 is closed and lowering guard 370 when dispensing drawer 360 is open allowing bottle 310 to come out. The first product dispenser 190 also includes a catch lever 380 that includes a bottle sensor 385. When the dispenser drawer 360 is closed and there are bottles 310 in the first product dispenser 190, the next bottle 310 for dispensing pushes the front end of the take-up lever 380 downward causing the rear end of the take-up lever 380 to raise severing the connection between the vial sensor 385 and a dispensing shelf sensor 180 indicating that there is a vial 310 ready to be dispensed. When the dispensing drawer 360 is open and there are no bottles 310 by pressing the front end of the take-up lever 380, the rear end of the take-up lever 380 is lowered and connects the bottle sensor 385 with the sensor on the dispensing shelf 180, indicating that there is no bottle 310 lined up to be dispensed. When the first product dispenser drawer 360 is closed, the next bottle 310 in the row moves forward, pushing down the front end of the take-up lever 380 and causing the rear end of the bottle sensor 385 to rise and lose. connecting it to the sensor on dispensing shelf 180. It is contemplated that other sensor configurations could be readily implemented by a person of ordinary skill in the art.
    [0051] A drawer position sensor 390 is located at the base of the dispenser drawer 360. The drawer position sensor 390 connects to a closed position sensor on the dispensing shelf when the dispenser drawer 360 is closed, indicating to the processor platform in control compartment 115 that dispenser drawer 360 is closed. Drawer position sensor 390 interfaces with an open position sensor on dispensing shelf 180 when dispenser drawer 360 is fully open, indicating to processor platform in control compartment 115 that dispenser drawer 360 is fully open.
    [0052] A second product dispenser 191 is used to dispense products that are packaged in square or rectangular boxes, such as pre-filled syringes packaged in an adapted cardboard box 410 as shown in Figures 4A to 41. A preferred embodiment consists of boxes of cardboard 410 containing syringes, but a person of ordinary skill in the art will understand that any type of medication or product may be packaged and dispensed in boxes 410 that fit in dispenser 191. Boxes 410 are loaded into dispenser 191 through an opening 415 in the front of dispenser 191. A second product dispenser drawer 420 in the base of dispenser 191 is pulled out toward the front to remove a box 410. Once drawer 420 is fully extended, drawer 420 will not close until box 410 be removed. Empty drawer 420 can be pushed back into dispenser 191 and a new box 410 will drop into drawer 420. This prevents a box 410 from being inserted back into dispenser 191 through drawer 420.
    [0053] Figures 4D to 4G show a cross-section of the dispenser 191. The drawer 420 comprises a front end 425 with a handle that allows a user to pull and push the drawer 420. The drawer also includes a tray section 430 designed to fit a specific box size. A person of ordinary skill will understand that various types of tray sections 430 can be provided in different drawer 420 configurations. Drawer 420 also includes a rear section 435. The rear section 435 is larger than the tray section 430 and serves the two functions. First, it pushes on the case 410 as the user pulls on the drawer handle 420. Second, it supports a second case 410 that drops onto that rear section 435 once the first case 410 has emptied the front end of the dispenser. 191 and has been removed. When the empty drawer 420 is pushed back into place the second box 410 drops onto the tray section 430.
    [0054] The second product dispenser 191 includes a take-up lever 440, similar to the take-up lever 380 of the first product dispenser 190. The rear section of the take-up lever 440 has a take-up member 445, which connects with a sensor on dispensing shelf 183 when there are no cases in drawer 420 or when the drawer is pulled out and a new case 410 is located in the rear section 435 of the drawer. As shown in Figure 41, the drawer has a channel 450 that allows the take-up lever 440 to rise above the plane of the tray section 430 when a case 410 is not in the tray section 410. This allows the rear section of the release lever to pickup 440 drops and makes contact with a sensor on dispensing shelf 183.
    [0055] A drawer position sensor 490 is located at the base of the dispenser drawer 420. The drawer position sensor 490 connects with a closed position sensor on the dispensing shelf 183 when the dispenser drawer 420 is closed, indicating to the processor platform in control compartment 115 that dispenser drawer 420 is closed. Drawer position sensor 490 interfaces with an open position sensor on dispensing shelf 183 when dispenser drawer 420 is fully open, indicating to processor platform in control compartment 115 that dispenser drawer 420 is fully open.
    [0056] Referring again to Figure 1D, the for-sale refrigerator 100 also includes an internal compartment 151 to be used as a temporary storage compartment. It is contemplated that any one of the internal compartments 150, 151, 152, 153 may be used as the temporary storage compartment. The temporary storage compartment is used to place products 310, 410 from any of the product dispensers 190, 191 which have been mistakenly removed or if they contain multiple doses. The temporary storage compartment may be formed by a third dispensing shelf 182 in the refrigerator for goods on sale. The third dispensing shelf may or may not have any sensors on it. It is also contemplated that the for-sale refrigerator 100 may include multiple non-product dispenser compartments 190, 191, which can be used as temporary storage compartments.
    [0057] A junction box can control a heater for an ammonia absorption chiller or the compressor to maintain a constant temperature in chilled compartment 110 (or a compressor for freezer compartment 120 discussed below). The junction box consists of a processor, SSR or SCR, 12C communication interface, NTC temperature probe, and power supply. If the cooler is ammonia absorbing, the processor runs a standard PID algorithm and numerical impulse control with over-temperature modifications. The over temperature function is to turn off the heater when the refrigerator appears to be overheating due to lack of gas, bad heater or high current. The nominal temperature setting for the inside of the chilled compartment 115 will be controlled by the processor platform that communicates with the junction box. Current status of the junction box is read by the processor platform in control compartment 115.
    [0058] An AC/DC power supply with a line filter is preferably used to provide a stable voltage for all electronics. The power supply output is used to charge an auxiliary battery. Both the power supply output and the auxiliary battery are controlled by a power switch. The power switch is controlled by the processor platform in control compartment 115 to select how the electronics and cooled compartment 115 will be powered. The processor platform monitors the main power supply and auxiliary battery via the 12C communications interface.
    [0059] In accordance with certain aspects of an embodiment of the invention, when a freezer compartment 120 is used, the freezer compartment 120 preferably includes an enclosure with a compressor cooler, compartments for holding product dispensers, one or more compartment doors. storage compartment, a temporary storage drawer, dispensing pickup shelves, temperature pickup, LEDs, electric locks, a door sensor, a fan, a processor-controlled thermostat, a power supply with UPS, and a communication link to chilled compartment 110 or control compartment 115, as shown in Figure 5. The freezer compartment preferably includes a freezer interface that contains I2C and GPIO signals necessary for communications with the processor platform in control compartment 115. These signals are temporarily stored and sent to the processor platform via you're from the back panel. It is contemplated that the freezer compartment 120 is configured in the same way as the chilled compartment and includes the same features, except that the temperature of the freezer compartment can be set below the freezing temperature to keep the products at lower temperatures than in the freezer compartment. cold 110.
    [0060] The temporary storage drawer should be used when a product is inadvertently dispensed. This is to keep the product temperature in a safe condition until its eventual use. During a refill cycle, the product will be reconciled.
    [0061] All control and communications are preferably handled by control compartment 115. The refrigerator for goods for sale can be configured to communicate with a server. In this configuration, the server consists of application software running on a computer that is located in an offsite facility. This application software processes refrigerator input data for 100 products on sale and generates the data needed for inventory control, maintenance, alarms, billing and any other essential tasks. The data is also used to dispatch personnel for maintenance, customer support for alarms and refills.
    [0062] The server and cooling unit can communicate with each other, and form part of a fully integrated product supply, storage and distribution system, as described further below, and as schematically shown in the example flow diagram shown in Figure 6.
    [0063] The first element of the system is a user facility 600. User facility 600 is where the for-sale refrigerator 100 is placed. It can be a doctor's office, but it can be any other place where the for sale refrigerator 100 is to be used, for example, a pharmacy, a health department office, etc. Another element of the system is a product manufacturer 610, such as a company that manufactures products that are to be dispensed through the refrigerator for products on sale. An optional element of the system is a dispenser 620, which is used by the manufacturer 610 to deliver the product to the user 600. A product partner 640 may also be provided who has responsibility for managing product inventory in the refrigerator for products at the sale 100. A management partner 605 can be used in certain cases to control the functions of the refrigerator for products for sale 100. In some cases, management partner 605 is the manufacturer of the refrigerator for products for sale 100 and has responsibility for maintenance of equipment and data collected from the refrigerator for products for sale 100. A billing partner 615 is responsible for invoicing and establishing accounts with the various other members of the system. Insurance 630 may be another component, which is in communication with the billing partner 615 to manage payment for spent product.
    [0064] The system is deployed over an integrated network as shown in Figure 7. In accordance with certain aspects of an embodiment of the invention, the for-sale refrigerator 100 is communicatively connected with the control server 705 on the trading partner. management 605, product manufacturer server 710, distributor server 720, partner server 740, billing server 715, and insurance server 730. An individual of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the sale does not need to be connected to all the components listed above. For example, the for-sale refrigerator 100 can be connected to the control server 705 and the control server 705 can be used to communicate with all other components as needed.
    [0065] The system described above is used to implement a method for distributing and dispensing products. A product is first delivered to the user 600 from the manufacturer 610 or distributor 620. Data is collected from the control compartment 115 about the contents and operation of the refrigerator for products for sale 100 and sent to the control server 705. The control server 705 handles all transactions relating to products dispensed through the refrigerator for products on sale 100. All data including alarms from the refrigerator for products on sale 100 are sent and processed by the control server 705. The control server 705 processes the data and determines whether the refrigerator for goods for sale 100 needs to be refilled or whether maintenance is required.
    [0066] Optionally, a billing server 715 at billing partner 615 can receive information directly from the refrigerator for products on sale 100 or the control server 705. Billing server 715 manages billing to and from user 600, billing to and from insurance company 630, and orders inventory from product manufacturer 610. Billing server 715 can also schedule visits from a product partner 640 to go to user 600, while coordinating with product delivery. The 640 Product Partner may be an organization with qualified individuals to store and maintain the physician's vaccine stock. In such cases, product partner 640 preferably uses a CDC vaccine handling document in establishing procedures. When a patient receives a vaccine, or other medication dispensed through the refrigerator for products on sale 100, the information is sent from a scanned or extracted vial from POMIS (Physician's Office Management and Medical Information System) to the billing server 715 to charge the insurance company 630 for the patient to whom the product was provided.
    [0067] Control server 705 will send replenishment requests to billing server 715 when inventory levels are below predetermined amounts. The billing server 715 needs to make such requests in a timely manner to ensure that the doctor's office is not short of any medication, for example, a vaccine. Control server 705 will track all inventory on hand. Billing server 715 will track all orders for deliveries and provide delivery information to control server 705. All refrigerator alarms for products for sale 100 at the doctor's office will be sent through control server 705 to billing server 715 for notification. Insurance 630 refers to entities that reimburse the product partner 640 for the cost of the drug, for example, a vaccine, and reimburse the physician for administering the drug. Billing server 715 will bill insurance company 630 and handle insurance payment transaction management.
    [0068] Manufacturer 610 refers to entities that will supply medications, for example, vaccines, to user 600 or product partner 640. Manufacturer 610 receives a request on the product manufacturer server 710 from the billing server 715. The request is then sent directly to user 600 or product partner 640 with tracking number and manifest sent to billing server 715, which will transmit that information to control server 705. It is contemplated that medications will arrive in a timely manner, for example, within 48 hours of shipping.
    [0069] An exemplary method, according to an embodiment, is provided in Figure 8. In a first step 800, an operator, such as a nurse in the doctor's office 600, removes a vial from the refrigerator for goods for sale 100. In a second step 805, the for-sale refrigerator 100 records the removal and sends the information to the control server 705. In a third step 810, the nurse enters the information into the patient record and the data is sent to the billing server 715 for billing by extracting the relevant information from POMIS. In the next step 815, the billing server sends the invoice to the insurance company for reimbursement. At step 820, control server 705 recognizes and tracks vial usage and, if the number of vials is below an even level, communicates with billing server 715 to order more product. In step 825, billing server 715 requests a refill from manufacturer 610 by placing an order with manufacturer 610 for more product.
    [0070] Manufacturer 610 then ships the product; generates a tracking, manifest and invoice number; and sends the information to billing server 715 at step 830. Billing server 715 transmits the tracking number and manifests to control server 705 and product partner 640 at step 835. The for-sale refrigerator 100 is then refilled at step 840, and it notifies the control server 705 when it has been refilled at step 845. Then, at step 850, the control server 705 informs the billing server 715 of product delivery and updated inventory levels. Billing server 715 then sets the manufacturer's invoice for the cost of the product at 855. The process is complete when billing server 715 receives insurance reimbursement at step 860.
    [0071] An example general system flow for the system described above is as follows. It is contemplated that filling orders can be made via the numeric keypad, a smart phone or a mobile device from the refrigerator for products on sale 100 with a software application that receives information from the refrigerator for products on sale and that can be connected communicative with the system, for example the control server 705 or billing server 715. The filling system can also be controlled via a web page communicatively connected with the refrigerator for products on sale 100, for example via from the control server 705 or the billing server 715.
    [0072] The refrigerator for products for sale 100 can capture product information through the use of a barcode scan. The barcode scan can be located in the control compartment. The person who is in charge of filling the product for sale cooler 100 may scan each product, for example a vaccine, before refilling the product dispenser 190. The product for sale cooler may contain a server in the control compartment the same 115 that maintains communication between the user's office and a control server 705 at a supplier that manufactures and maintains the for-sale refrigerator 100. The for-sale refrigerator 100 can report every product movement and event or alarm requiring action to refrigerator manufacturer for products for sale 100.
    [0073] As explained above, product dispensers 190 and 191 do not allow a product to be returned through dispenser drawer 360 or 420. If a product is removed, it can be placed on a dispensing shelf, e.g. 181 which does not contain any product dispensers 190, 191 and which does not have any sensors. Optionally, products that allow for multiple dosages can be placed on the dispensing shelf, for example, 181, which has no sensors or product dispensers 190, 191 after initial dosing of such product. Preferably, the product for sale cooler 100 only tracks whether a product is in a product dispenser 190, 191. The user is responsible for tracking payments and product distribution in such multiple dosing cases.
    [0074] A doctor and/or nurse can use the following example process when using the refrigerator for products for sale 100. The doctor, nurse or other user logs in using his or her own unique user code. The user opens the refrigerator door for products on sale 100 and pulls the required bottle from the product dispenser drawer 190, 191. If the user pulls out the wrong bottle, the bottle is placed on the dispensing shelf, for example, 181, which does not have any sensors or product dispensers 190, 191. Similarly, if the product is a multi-dose vaccine, the remainder will be placed on the dispensing shelf, for example, 181, which has no sensors or product dispensers 190 , 191. The user then closes the refrigerator door 105 for for-sale products 100, dispenses the product to the patient or final container, records the dosage in the POMIS, and discards the vial or syringe under normal operating procedures. Dispensing is recorded on the refrigerator for on-sale products 100 and transmitted to the refrigerator manufacturer for on-sale products 100 or any other personnel monitoring refrigerator usage. The billing system is preferably set up to ensure that the product, eg vaccine, is billed within 24 hours of use to the insurance company. Replenishment orders are preferably placed when stock levels are low or at specific intervals.
    [0075] In a further exemplary process employed by a product specialist, the for-sale refrigerator 100 can be used favorably in accordance with the following process. The refrigerator manufacturer or supervisor for products for sale 100 establishes an initial stock or product, for example, vaccines. When a bottle of product is removed from the for-sale product cooler 100, the inventory reduction is recorded in the control bin 110 and transmitted to the management partner 605 or control server 705. The management partner 605 or control server 705 recognizes when a stock level, and more preferably an expired stock level, is below par and notifies the 715 billing server or designated partner to place and manage product orders. Billing server 715, or the partner designated to manage orders, places an order with product manufacturer 610. Product manufacturer 610 sends the order to and alerts billing server 715 of the tracking information, which is then transmitted to the control server or refrigerator manufacturer/supervisor for products on sale 100.
    [0076] Billing server 715 or staff assigned to manage orders notifies a product partner and manufacturer/supervisor of data received from the refrigerator for products on sale 100, preferably including that there are X specific product deliveries occurring next day for scheduling purposes. The product partner schedules a time to visit the user's office and fills the refrigerator for 100 products on sale with the delivered product order. If the delivery arrives before the product partner specialist arrives, the user can place the product in an appropriate refrigerator to maintain temperature control.
    [0077] Product partner specialist checks that the thermal indicator on the housing is in proper condition; registers input via the numeric keypad using a unique code; unlocks the vaccine compartment; replaces the product according to industry standards (eg using first-in, first-out (FIFO) principle); and scans the barcode of each bottle and interacts with the refrigerator front panel LCD/touch screen for 100 products on sale to identify the product to be loaded. The on-sale refrigerator 100 and the on-sale refrigerator supervisor 100 or manufacturer software preferably records the product name, the number of doses received, the date the product was received, the condition of the product on arrival, the product manufacturer, the lot number and expiration date of the product, as determined by the front panel scan and dialog. The cooler for products on sale may include a flashing LED(s) under the cartridge/slot to indicate which one to fill, and the refiller preferably checks that the vaccine being replaced is going to the correct cartridge/slot one at a time. Expired products are preferably removed and sent to the manufacturer for a refund and/or replacement. Expired vaccines can occur due to potency interruptions, being past the expiration date, or temperature fluctuations.
    [0078] It is contemplated that the control server 705 can be configured to allow the return of expired products. This option may be included under a stock menu option titled "return to manufacturer/expired product". Expired products in product dispensers 190, 191, or dispensing rack, e.g., 181, which have no sensors or product dispensers 190, 191, may also be returned to the product manufacturer for disposal and/or refund.
    [0079] Product partner specialist ensures that all expired (and unreturned) bottles on the dispensing shelf, e.g. 181, which has no sensors or product dispensers 190, 191, will remain there for future use . The same or the same then locks the vaccine compartment, replaces any miscellaneous items as needed (labels, boxes, containers, etc.), and checks with the user if there is a problem of some sort.
    [0080] The product specialist also asks if there are any maintenance items that need to be checked, and informs the refrigerator manufacturer and/or supervisor for on-sale products 100. The refrigerator temperature for on-sale products 100 is automatically controlled so that that there is no need for the product specialist to record such information. The product specialist then provides a summary of product usage, preferably for the month, and answers any questions related to the product.
    [0081] In accordance with one aspect of an embodiment of the invention, the system employs an exemplary inventory reconciliation process as follows. The product specialist may conduct a physical refrigerator inventory for for-sale products 100 for reconciliation with the recorded refrigerator inventory levels for automated for-sale products 100 and manufacturer/control server 705. The product specialist or other user who conducts the stock interacts with user input device 140 or refrigerator 130 LCD/touch screen dialog for products on sale 100 to note any and all inventory discrepancies. The manufacturer/control server and refrigerator stock levels for registered 100 and 705 for sale products are adjusted to match physical inventory, with a time-stamped note explaining the adjustment.
    [0082] In some cases, it may be desirable to modify the input menus. An exemplary menu switching process may include the following steps. If product demand is expected to change, for example required for back-to-school or flu season when certain vaccines will be in higher demand, then the menu and stock may change. The product partner can assess the need for a second cooler for products on sale 100 or change the quantity of product supplied. The product partner can suggest a "menu change" to the refrigerator manufacturer or supervisor for products on sale 100. The supervisor or manufacturer will then establish the new menu and download the new menu to the refrigerator for products on sale through the network. The refrigerator manufacturer or supervisor for products on sale 100 can store all historical data on a server to be used for analysis as needed, such as location, product type (eg vaccine) and user. The product specialist arrives at the user's office and contacts the supervisor or manufacturer's technical department for assistance in completing the menu change. The system is designed to include procedures when there is product remaining in the affected cartridge(s)/slot(s). For example, an "Extraction" option allows product movement without generating an invoice or renewal order. Inventory is refilled and the system is updated.
    [0083] If there is a malfunction or an alarm is otherwise activated, the system is configured to employ the following process. Once an alarm is activated, the on-sale refrigerator 100 registers the alarm and transmits notification of the alarm to the on-sale refrigerator manufacturer/supervisor 100. The service telephone number is preferably displayed on the refrigerator display for products on sale. The manufacturer/supervisor may notify the product specialist as soon as possible via email, SMS or any other electronic means. The product specialist preferably contacts the user to determine the cause of the alarm (eg unit not on, temperature drop, etc.) and to resolve the problem (if possible). The product specialist can follow a specified protocol. The call result is recorded in the manufacturer/supervisor database for evaluation by management. The information collected may include the date, name of the person spoken to, time and any other information deemed crucial by the user, manufacturer or service provider. The product specialist may contact the refrigerator manufacturer/supervisor for products for sale 100 for technical support if the issue remains unresolved. The manufacturer/supervisor can then dispatch a technician as needed. Items the technician can check include the duration of available auxiliary battery power - 48 hours minimum, 72 hours preferred, which allows for long weekends when the office may be closed for three days.
    [0084] The following events are examples of items that can cause an alarm to be triggered: out of temperature range, door open beyond a predetermined period of time, no main power (i.e. switched to battery), threatening total power loss (i.e. no main and battery drained), no communication with server, illegal access or access attempt number exceeded, specific cartridge/slot not communicating, low battery level (test AC/DC charge) , dispensing an expired vaccine, and dispensing a collected or quarantined vaccine. Records may be stored, such as for three years on the manufacturer's server, or as required by applicable law or trade practice.
    [0085] In one embodiment, the for-sale refrigerator 100 may provide redundant systems to handle potential power outages. The retail product cooler 100 may include an auxiliary battery to provide power in the event of a power failure. The for-sale refrigerator 100 can be programmed to lock and not dispense product in order to maintain temperature and protect stored products. A lock deactivated upon entry of a special access code may be provided to allow emergency entry or for removal of product to another location. In addition, after a configurable time interval, the cooler or freezer compartments can be turned off to conserve battery power and the lock will continue to remain locked during this stage. Once the battery fails completely, the for sale refrigerator 100 will be left in an unlocked state.
    [0086] A process may also be implemented to handle the return and quarantine of stored products. In such event, the manufacturer/supervisor will record the return/quarantine order for a specific product, e.g. vaccine, including lot number on the refrigerator for products on sale 100. The product will be identified as "Waiting" on the refrigerator for products for sale 100. In some embodiments, the product dispenser 190, 191 will be locked to prevent product dispensing. The on-sale refrigerator 100 can also flash LED(s) to warn against using a product, display a warning on the front panel display, activate an alarm if the quarantined product is dispensed, and lock under software configurable conditions. . A product specialist can remove vaccine to be returned from the refrigerator for products on sale 100 after entering a code and place such vaccine to be returned in the user's refrigerator until resolved or remove it for the same installation of the same.
    [0087] The system can be further configured to allow transfer of vaccines between different locations, for example, between doctors' offices in a vaccine partner's territory. Software to deploy the system can deploy the following process. First, the manufacturer establishes inventory levels for process management. The refrigerator for 100 products for sale and the manufacturer software has the ability to accept vaccine transfer from another user. The software may include shipping practices established for a vaccine specialist, for example, the ability of a 12 volt DC power converter shipping receptacle to cool the container as an option that can be plugged into electrical receptacles in a vehicle. The software also tracks temperature for cold chain. In some cases, the shipping receptacle may be another for-sale refrigerator 100 to which a warehouse or module can be attached, and which is powered by a car. This special software would be used for transport only.
    [0088] The software and system may also include solutions for discrepancies and errors. In an exemplary embodiment, when submission errors occur, the product specialist matches the billing server or partner submission request to the product manufacturer submission document and alerts that billing server or partner of discrepancies. The software may include a validation process to cross-check that what was ordered is what was delivered and subsequently placed in the individual cartridge/slot in the product dispenser 190, 191.
    [0089] Having now fully established the preferred embodiments and certain modifications of the concept underlying the present invention, various other embodiments as well as certain variations and modifications of the embodiments herein shown and described will certainly occur to those skilled in the art upon becoming familiar with said underlying concept. It is to be understood, therefore, that the invention may be practiced otherwise than as specifically set forth herein. INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY
    [0090] The present invention is applicable to dispensing machines. The invention discloses an on-sale refrigerator for dispensing products that need strict inventory control such as pharmaceuticals and medicines. The devices described herein may be produced and practiced in the industry in the field of product delivery and dispensing.
    权利要求:
    Claims (12)
    [0001]
    1. Refrigerator (100) for products on sale CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises: a control compartment (115), which comprises a processor configured to manage the refrigerator (100) for products on sale; a first dispensing shelf (180, 181, 182, 183) communicatively connected with said control compartment (115); a plurality of first product dispensers (190, 191) removably positioned on said first dispensing shelf (180, 181, 182, 183) and communicatively connected with the first dispensing shelf (180, 181, 182, 183) or control compartment (115), each of said first product dispensers (190, 191) comprising a vertical housing containing a plurality of product units of a first product and a first dispensing drawer configured for horizontal movement out of said housing for dispensing said first product, wherein each said first product dispenser (190, 191) is configured to sequentially dispense a single one of said product units after each horizontal extension of said dispensing drawer from a closed position to an open position, and wherein said first product dispenser (190, 191) is further configured to avoid replacing the first product. duct back into the product dispenser (190, 191) through the dispensing drawer; a second dispensing shelf (180, 181, 182, 183) communicatively connected to the control compartment (115); and a second product dispenser (190, 191) on said second dispensing shelf (180, 181, 182, 183) and communicatively connected to said dispensing shelf (180, 181, 182, 183) or control compartment (115), comprising storage compartment for a second product and a second dispensing drawer for dispensing said second product, wherein said second product dispenser (190, 191) prevents replacement of the second product back to the dispenser of product (190, 191) through the dispensing drawer.
    [0002]
    2. Refrigerator (100) for products for sale, according to claim 1, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the first product and the second product are selected from the group consisting of a bottle and a box.
    [0003]
    3. Refrigerator (100) for products for sale, according to claim 2, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the box comprises a syringe.
    [0004]
    4. Refrigerator (100) for products for sale, according to claim 1, CHARACTERIZED in that said first product dispenser (190, 191) and said second product dispenser (190, 191) each comprise , an opening for accepting said first or said second product, wherein each of said openings is blocked by a door with a latch.
    [0005]
    5. Refrigerator (100) for products for sale, according to claim 4, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the lock is controlled by the processor in the control compartment (115).
    [0006]
    6. Refrigerator (100) for products for sale, according to claim 1, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises a cooled compartment (100) and a freezer compartment (120).
    [0007]
    7. Refrigerator (100) for products on sale, according to claim 6, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the cooled compartment and the freezer compartment each comprise the first dispensing shelf (180, 181, 182, 183) , the first product dispenser (190, 191), the second dispensing shelf (180, 181, 182, 183) and the second product dispenser (190, 191).
    [0008]
    8. Refrigerator (100) for products for sale, according to claim 1, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the first dispensing shelf (180, 181, 182, 183) and the second dispensing shelf (180, 181, 182, 183) have sensors that indicate the presence or absence of a product in either the first product dispenser (190, 191) or the second product dispenser (190, 191).
    [0009]
    9. Refrigerator (100) for products on sale, according to claim 8, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the sensors detect a position of the first or second dispensing drawer.
    [0010]
    10. Refrigerator (100) for products for sale, according to claim 1, CHARACTERIZED in that it additionally comprises a third dispensing shelf (180, 181, 182, 183), in which the third dispensing shelf (180, 181, 182, 183) has the ability to store said first or second product after said first or second product is dispensed from the first product dispenser (190, 191) or second product dispenser (190, 191).
    [0011]
    11. System for dispensing products CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises: the refrigerator (100) for products on sale, according to claim 1, communicatively connected to a network, and a control server (705) connected to said network , where the refrigerator for products for sale sends product status to the control server (705).
    [0012]
    12. System, according to claim 11, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that it additionally comprises a billing server (715).
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    同族专利:
    公开号 | 公开日
    MX2015014783A|2016-05-31|
    EP2988716B1|2019-09-25|
    EP2988716A1|2016-03-02|
    BR112015026987A2|2020-12-15|
    US9734303B2|2017-08-15|
    SG11201508757UA|2015-11-27|
    US20170372035A1|2017-12-28|
    CA2910157A1|2014-10-30|
    US10657223B2|2020-05-19|
    PH12015502451A1|2016-02-22|
    CN105358113B|2018-04-17|
    CN105358113A|2016-02-24|
    US20140316799A1|2014-10-23|
    WO2014176330A1|2014-10-30|
    PH12015502451B1|2016-02-22|
    CA2910157C|2021-05-25|
    EP2988716A4|2016-12-28|
    DK2988716T3|2019-12-02|
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    法律状态:
    2018-11-13| B06F| Objections, documents and/or translations needed after an examination request according [chapter 6.6 patent gazette]|
    2020-12-08| B15K| Others concerning applications: alteration of classification|Free format text: A CLASSIFICACAO ANTERIOR ERA: Ipc: A61G 12/00 (2006.01) |
    2020-12-08| B15G| Petition not considered as such [chapter 15.7 patent gazette]|Free format text: PETICAO NO 860150304904 DE 23/12/2015 NAO CONHECIDA POR FALTA DE FUNDAMENTACAO LEGAL, CONFORME ART. 219 INCISO II DA LPI, POIS A PETICAO 860150304625 23/12/2015 FOI APRESENTADA TEMPESTIVAMENTE VISTO QUE O PRAZO COMECA A CONTAR A PARTIR DO PRIMEIRO DIA UTIL SUBSEQUENTE. |
    2021-02-02| B06U| Preliminary requirement: requests with searches performed by other patent offices: procedure suspended [chapter 6.21 patent gazette]|
    2021-07-13| B350| Update of information on the portal [chapter 15.35 patent gazette]|
    2021-11-23| B09A| Decision: intention to grant [chapter 9.1 patent gazette]|
    2021-12-07| B350| Update of information on the portal [chapter 15.35 patent gazette]|
    2022-02-01| B16A| Patent or certificate of addition of invention granted [chapter 16.1 patent gazette]|Free format text: PRAZO DE VALIDADE: 20 (VINTE) ANOS CONTADOS A PARTIR DE 23/04/2014, OBSERVADAS AS CONDICOES LEGAIS. |
    优先权:
    申请号 | 申请日 | 专利标题
    US201361815045P| true| 2013-04-23|2013-04-23|
    US61/815,045|2013-04-23|
    US14/259,621|2014-04-23|
    PCT/US2014/035136|WO2014176330A1|2013-04-23|2014-04-23|Controlled inventory refrigerated dispensing system|
    US14/259,621|US9734303B2|2013-04-23|2014-04-23|Controlled inventory refrigerated dispensing system|
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