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  • 专利说明
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    • 专利摘要:
    MEMORIZER WIRE TERMINATOR. A container is presented for use in a dispensing system; the container comprises a frame, a connecting element movably attached to the frame, a control module and an actuator comprising a memorizing wire with an extension and a terminator which is attached to the memorizing wire. The connecting element has a first position and a second position, the actuator is mechanically coupled to the connecting element; the control module is attached to the frame and comprises a contact element; the terminator is attached to the frame and electrically coupled to the contact element, where the electrical coupling between the memorizing wire and the contact element is mechanically compatible, such that the position of the terminator in relation to the frame is invariable as to the position of the module control in relation to the frame varies.
    公开号:BR112013018369B1
    申请号:R112013018369-1
    申请日:2012-01-23
    公开日:2020-10-27
    发明作者:Frank Dean Weber；Michael RAHILLY
    申请人:Carefusion 303, Inc；
    IPC主号:
    专利说明:

    HISTORIC Application field
    [001] This presentation relates, in general, to systems and methods for dispensing items and, in particular, systems containing compartments with individually actuated lids. Description of the Related Art
    [002] The dispensing of medicines using Automated Dispensing Machines (ADMs) has become common in hospitals worldwide. The benefits include a reduction in the amount of pharmacist work required to access medications and also allow nurses to obtain medications more quickly, since there are many ADMs located at nursing stations. ADMs also provide safe storage of medications, particularly controlled substances, since users are normally required to identify themselves and identify the patient to whom the medication will be administered before ADM grants access to the medication.
    [003] One of the challenges of ADMs is to provide controlled access in order to optimize space. Providing access to a single item, either in quantity or in a single dose, reduces the risk of the user selecting the incorrect item. Access to single doses is particularly desirable when the item is valuable or has the potential for abuse, as is the case with controlled substances. Minimizing the volume occupied by ADM mechanisms maximizes the volume available for storing the items themselves.
    [004] ADM technology applies to a huge variety of non-medical applications, such as dispensing consumable cutting tools in a machine shop or tracking tools when working with an aircraft engine, when It is essential to ensure that no tools have been left on the engine. Candidates for the use of ADM technology are applications in which there is a concern with inventory control or in which the user's identity must be authenticated before access to the content of the storage system is allowed.
    [005] The memorizing wire, also known as "muscle wire", can be made of a series of alloys commonly known as "shape memorizing alloy". The memorizing wire has been used in a wide variety of applications including medical devices and dispensing technology. Medical devices that incorporate shape memorizing alloys include stents, specialty guidewires and laparoscopic surgical subunits. CareFusion Pyxis CUBIE® compartments use a memorizing wire actuator to unlock the compartment cover as shown in United States Patent No. 6,116,461. RESUME
    [006] Containers with a memorizing wire actuator presented in this document providing a safe and sophisticated method of dispensing items such as medicines. The container can be refilled at a remote location like a pharmacy and safely transported to ADM by someone other than a pharmacist and quickly inserted into the ADM, saving time for the pharmacist and improving the availability of ADM for nurses. Since a memorizing wire actuator is small compared to a solenoid and other electric actuators, the container provides the ability to dispense single doses in a way that optimizes space.
    [007] A container is displayed, according to certain configurations. The container comprises a frame, a connecting element which is movably attached to the frame, a control module comprising a contact element and an actuator comprising a memorizing wire with an extension and a terminator which is attached to the memorizing wire. The connecting element has a first position and a second position. The actuator is mechanically coupled to the connecting element. The control module is attached to the frame. The terminator is attached to the frame and electrically coupled to the contact element. The electrical coupling between the memorizing wire and the contact element is mechanically compatible, so that the variation in the position of the control module in relation to the frame does not cause variation in the position of the terminator in relation to the frame.
    [008] A container is displayed, according to certain configurations. The container comprises a frame, a connecting element attached to the frame, a memorizing wire with an extension and a tilting element configured to apply a pulling force to the memorizing wire. The connecting element has a first position and a second position. The memorizing wire is configured in such a way that a reduction in the length of the memorizing wire causes the connecting element to move from the first position to the second position. The force applied by the tilt element is reduced as the connecting element moves from the first position to the second position.
    [009] A container is displayed, according to certain configurations. The container comprises a frame, a connecting element pivotally attached to the frame, the connecting element with a first position and a second position, a sliding element attached slidingly to the frame along a fixed axis with respect to the frame, the sliding element coupled to the connecting element and an actuator comprising a memorizing wire with an extension and a terminator attached to the wire. The actuator is mechanically coupled to the sliding element. The terminator is attached to the frame. The memorizing wire is substantially parallel to the movement axis of the sliding element. A reduction in the length of the memorizing wire will cause the connecting element to move from the first position to the second position.
    [010] An ADM is displayed, according to certain settings. ADM comprises a container and a dispensing machine. The container comprises a frame, a connecting element movably attached to the frame, a control module attached to the frame and an actuator comprising a memorizing wire with an extension and a terminator which is attached to the memorizing wire. The connecting element has a first position and a second position. The actuator is mechanically coupled to the connecting element. The control module comprises a connector and a contact element. The terminator is attached to the frame and electrically coupled to the contact element. The electrical coupling between the memorizing wire and the contact element is mechanically compatible, in such a way that the movement of the control module does not cause movement of the terminator. The actuator is configured in such a way that a reduction in the length of the memorizing wire will cause the connecting element to move from the first position to the second position. The control module is configured to accept a control signal via the connector and cause the connecting element to move to the second position in response to the control signal. The dispensing machine comprises a casing, a drawer mounted within the casing, the drawer configured to receive the container, the drawer comprising a coupling connector that fits into the container connector, when the container is received in the drawer unit and a coupled processor to the coupling connector, the processor configured to transmit the control signal to the container via the coupling connector.
    [011] A method of dispensing items is presented, according to certain settings. The method comprises the steps of inserting at least one item in a container comprising a frame containing an internal volume with an opening and a lid which is movably attached to the frame and detachably attached to the opening by a connecting element coupled to an actuator comprising a memorizing wire; insert the container in a drawer of an automatic dispensing machine (ADM); request the item to be accessed at ADM; and open the lid of the container that contains the item. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
    [012] The attached drawings, which are included to provide greater understanding, are incorporated and form part of this specification, illustrate the configurations presented and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the configurations presented. In the drawings: Figure 1 is a drawing of an ADM for use in medical facilities; Figure 2 illustrates an ADM drawer configured to accept secure containers with a lid according to certain configurations of the present presentation; Figure 3 represents an example of configuration of the internal construction of a safe container with a lid, according to certain configurations of the present presentation; Figure 4A represents a perspective view, partially exposed, of a cartridge with multiple covers containing individual actuators, according to certain configurations of the present presentation; Figure 4B represents an enlarged and partially exposed side view of a portion of the cartridge of figure 4, A according to certain configurations of the present presentation; Figure 5 represents a partially exposed view of an example configuration of a memorizing wire actuator installed in a secure container with a lid, illustrating the compatible coupling between the actuator termination that is fixedly attached to the container frame and an element of contact of a pairing station of the control module, according to certain configurations of the present presentation; Figure 6A illustrates an example of configuring a memorizing wire actuator, according to certain configurations in the present presentation; Figure 6B represents a partially exposed view of the memorizing wire actuator of figure 6A installed in a secure container with a lid, illustrating the compatible coupling between the actuator termination, which is fixedly attached to the container frame, and an flat matching contact of the module, control according to certain configurations of the present presentation; Figures 7A-7B illustrate an example of configuring a memorizing wire actuator 25 used to hold a cartridge 20 of the type shown in figure 3 in a drawer 12, according to certain configurations of the present presentation; and Figure 8 is a flowchart that describes the method of using a container with a memorizing metal actuator to access an item using an ADM, according to certain configurations in the present presentation. DETAILED DESCRIPTION
    [013] Pharmacists are increasingly under pressure to better administer the drugs that are provided to nurses and other healthcare professionals in a medical facility. There is an increasingly high level of regulation, particularly for controlled substances, regarding the handling and tracking of medicines. Many of these regulations require the pharmacist to perform certain checks on drugs, increasing the pharmacist's workload. Controlled substances, which may include drugs listed in Annexes I-V to the Controlled Substances Act, are a particular focus of regulatory monitoring and control requirements. In addition, many hospitals are unable to find pharmacists to fill available vacancies, placing a greater burden on pharmacists who are part of the hospital staff. There is, therefore, a need to manage drugs while taking less time from the pharmacist.
    [014] Wire memorizing actuators are quite suitable for use in small dispensing systems. The memorizing wire actuators are small compared to alternative actuators such as solenoids and motors, and simple to operate. A common method of energizing a memorizing wire actuator is to pass current through the memorizing wire. The energy dissipated by the electrical resistance of the memorizing wire heats the wire and induces the phase change that causes the memorizing wire to contract. Removing the chain allows the memorizing wire to expand to its original length. Current applications of wire memorizing actuators have a number of challenges including low output force, low drive displacement and sensitivity to installation tolerances.
    [015] The memorizing wire is sensitive to the conditions under which it is used. To reach the full potential of force, displacement and life cycle of the memorizing wire, it is necessary to pay close attention to the type of movement and preload force, among other factors. Bending the memorizing wire during an operating cycle can lead to premature wear of the memorizing wire. Existing memorizing wire actuators that are used as part of a mechanism are finalized for printed circuit board units (PCBAs). The PCBAs are then attached to the same structure to which the other elements of the mechanism are attached, adding tolerances in the relative positioning of the PCBAs to the elements of the mechanism. If multiple memorizing wire actuators are attached to a single PCBA, the system will be further restricted resulting in additional tolerances added to multiple parts of the mechanism. Existing memorizing wire schemes are often configured to induce the memorizing wire to bend as it contracts, resulting in fatigue and a reduced service life. In addition, the voltage applied to the memorizing wire over the operating operating cycle can vary significantly, from a zero voltage condition to conditions in which the preload consumes most of the memorizing wire's driving force.
    [016] The presented container and ADM provide a safe and reliable system and a method of storing and dispensing items, especially medicines. Certain exemplary configurations of the present presentation include a container with an actuator comprising a memorizing wire and a terminator, where the terminator is attached to the container frame and not to the electronic components of the actuator.
    [017] Although the discussion of the system and method is aimed at dispensing medications in a hospital, the methods and apparatus presented are applicable to dispensing medications in other environments and also to dispensing other types of items in a variety of fields . For example, machine shops often have a tool depot with an employee hired to provide mechanics with milling cutters, drills and other consumable materials with controlled access to the tool and parts stock. An ADM may have a stock of these consumable materials and be used in place of the tool depot to supply these items to mechanics in a controlled and traceable manner. Similarly, items such as an expensive specialty tool can be removed by one person for use and returned to the same compartment after use, allowing the tool to be tracked and making a single tool available to multiple people.
    [018] In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set out to provide full understanding of the present presentation. It will be evident, however, to someone with common experience in the technique that configurations of the present presentation can be put into practice without some of the specific details. In other cases, well-known techniques and structures were not shown in detail so as not to cover up the presentation.
    [019] Figure 1 is a drawing of an ADM for use in medical facilities. This ADM 10 example includes a plurality of drawers 12, some of which can be configured to receive dispensing cartridges (not shown). This configuration of an ADM 10 is often called an enclosure, which includes an enclosure 11, multiple drawers 12, a variety of electronic components and controls (not shown) and the user interface. The ADM 10 user interface includes a screen 16 and a keyboard 14 so that the user, such as a nurse, can identify which medication to remove from ADM 10. The settings in this presentation can be used with a different conventional ADM 10 , with a change in the configuration of the drawers.
    [020] Figure 2 illustrates an ADM drawer configured to accept secure containers with a lid, according to certain configurations in this presentation. The drawer 12 is shown installed in the housing 11. A container 20 is shown separate from the drawer 12, where the space 18 is configured to accept the container 20. Other containers 20 of various sizes are shown installed in the drawer 12.
    [021] Figure 3 represents an example of the configuration of the internal construction of a safe container with a lid 20, according to certain configurations of the present presentation. The container 20 comprises a frame 24 with a lid 22 which, in this example, is hingedly attached to the frame 24. The lid 22 includes a fastening element which, in this example, is a hook 23. When the lid 22 is closed, the hook 23 projects downwards and is engaged by the connecting element 34 which, in this example, is a latch. A torsion spring 36 applied to a torque counterclockwise, in this example, to the connecting element 34 by turning it to the closed position where the tip of the connecting element 34 engages the hook 23 and keeps the cover 22 closed and safe.
    [022] The container 20 also includes a sliding element 38 that engages with the connecting element 34, such that a movement from right to left of the sliding element 38 will, in this example, cause a clockwise rotation of the connecting element 34, thereby releasing the hook 23. The sliding element 38 is attached to the frame 24 by the bearing 40, which restricts the movement of the sliding element 38 along a single axis which, in this example, is horizontal and parallel to the front face of the frame 24.
    [023] Actuator 25 comprises a memorizing wire 26 which is wrapped around a portion of the sliding element 38 and is terminated at each end by a terminator 28. In this example, the extensions of the memorizing wire 26, between the sliding element 38 and the respective terminators 28, are approximately parallel to the direction of movement of the sliding element 38, in such a way that the contraction of the memorizing wire 26 does not cause the memorizing wire to bend between the terminators 28 and the sliding element 38. A second slope 42 is attached to the frame 24 and applies a force to the sliding element 38 in the direction that puts the memorizing wire 26 in tension. It is desirable to keep the memorizing wire 26 in tension during the entire operating cycle to provide maximum service life.
    [024] The memorizing wire, also known as "muscle wire", is made of a shape memory alloy (SMA). The three main types of shape memory alloys are copper-zinc-aluminum-nickel, copper-aluminum-nickel and nickel-titanium (NiTi) although SMAs can also be created by bonding zinc, copper, gold and iron. NiTi alloys are generally more expensive and change from austenite to martensite when cooled. The transition from the martensite phase to the austenite phase depends only on temperature and tension, not on time as occurs with most phase changes, since there is no diffusion involved. It is the reversible transition without diffusion between these two phases that allows the appearance of special properties. The use of memorizing wire as an actuator saves a lot of space.
    [025] The heating of the memorizing wire 26 is induced, in this example, by passing electric current through the memorizing wire 26. The container 20 includes a control module 32 which, in this example, is a PCBA. The control module 32 controls the current flow that passes through the memorizing wire 26. The terminators 28 are mechanically captured in a socket 30 that is part of the frame 24 while the electrical connection between the terminators 28 and the control module 32 is carried out by spring elements which are part of the terminators and which will be discussed in more detail below. The control module 32 is attached to the frame 24 and a cover (not shown) is placed over the control module 32 to protect the control module 32 and the other components.
    [026] The memorizing wire normally shows an extension change of less than 5% when heated. Because the working movement is so short, it is important to minimize tolerances on the actuator unit and the mechanism to which the actuator is attached, for example, an inch extension of memorizing wire will produce only 0.050 inches of movement. The working range could be effectively eliminated if there were five tolerances of +/- 0.005 between the terminators of the memorizing wire and the portion of the mechanism to which the actuator of the memorizing wire is attached. In the example similar to that of figure 3, if the terminators 28 are mechanically attached to PCBA 32 and PCBA 32 is then attached to the frame 24 of the container 20, at least three tolerances (termination point of the terminator to the mounting hole in PCBA 32, variation in the mounting hole and position of the mounting hole in relation to the fixing point on the frame 24). In this way, the direct and fixed attachment of the terminators 28 to the frame 24 reduces the total variation between the actuator 25 and the connecting element 34, increasing the cycle and the force available to secure and release the cover 22.
    [027] In operation, the container 20 is placed in the drawer 12, as shown in figure 2 and, as a consequence, a control signal and a power connection are executed between the control module 32 and the ADM 10 electronic components. When it is desired to provide access to the contents of the container 10, a signal will be transmitted from the ADM 10 electronic components to the control module 32, which then causes the electric current to pass through the memorizing wire 26. Depending on the temperature of the memorizing wire 26 increases, the length of the memorizing wire 26 decreases. This decrease causes the sliding element 38 to move to the left, which in turn will push the lower portion of the connecting element 34, causing the connecting element 34 to rotate clockwise. At some point, the connecting element will release the hook 23 and the cover 22 will be free to be opened. Upon receiving a signal that the lid is open or after a fixed period of time, the control module 32 will interrupt the flow of current through the memorizing wire 26, causing the memorizing wire 26 to cool and therefore increasing its length. As the length of the memorizing wire 26 increases, the sloping elements 42 and 36 will fill the gap and cause the sliding element 38 and the connecting element 34 to return to their original positions.
    [028] Figure 4A represents a partially exposed perspective view of a cartridge with multiple covers 50, containing individual actuators, according to certain configurations of the present presentation. The cartridge 50 has multiple boxes, each with a cap 22. In this example, each cap is associated with an individual memorizing wire actuator 25.
    [029] Figure 4B represents an enlarged side view of a portion of the cartridge of figure 4A, according to certain configurations of the present presentation. In this configuration of the cartridge 50, terminators 28 are attached to the memorizing wire 26 at an angle to the memorizing wires 26. This angled attachment enables a more compact arrangement of the various components of the container 50. The connecting element 34 and the sliding element 38 are substantially similar to those in the configuration of figure 3, although bearing 40 has been omitted for clarity in figure 4B. The mechanism assemblies are superimposed between adjacent boxes to allow the use of a memorizing wire 26 as long as possible, if the length of the memorizing wire 26 were restricted to the extension of a single box. A longer memorizing wire 26 can offer greater driving force, greater range of motion or longer service life, depending on the specific design.
    [030] Figure 5 illustrates an example of configuration of the memorizing wire terminator 28 and the matching contact element 52 of the control module 32, according to certain configurations of the present presentation. In this perspective view from the side of the cartridge 50, a portion of the control module 32 has been cut to show the connection between the actuator 25 and the control module 32. The control module 32 has two pins that form the contact elements 52. As you can see in figure 5, these contact elements are forced between the spring elements of the terminators 28 when the control module 32 is mounted on the mechanism and attached to the frame 24.
    [031] Figure 6A illustrates an example of configuring a memorizing wire actuator 25, according to certain configurations in the present presentation. It can be seen that, in this example, the terminators 28 are crimped over each end of the memorizing wire 26. Each terminator 28 includes two platforms of terminators 54 located on elastic conductive elements 56 that are mechanically compatible in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the portion terminator main 28.
    [032] Figure 6B represents a partially exposed view of the memorizing wire actuator 25 of figure 6A installed in a secure container with a lid, illustrating the compatible coupling between the actuator terminator 28 which is fixedly attached to the frame 24 of the container and a flat matching contact element 56 of the control module 32, according to certain configurations of the present presentation. The main portions of the terminators 28 are mechanically captured in the socket 30 in the frame 24. This direct and fixed attachment of the terminators 28 to the frame 24 of the container reduces the variation in the position of the memorizing wire actuator 25 in relation to the other elements of the unlocking mechanism. o to which the memorizing wire actuator 25 is coupled. The electrical connection between the memorizing wire 26 and the control module 32 is established when the control module 32 is attached to the frame 24. The contact platforms 64, which are flat laminated areas on the surface of the control module 32 and which are visible from the edge of the indented area, they come into contact with the terminator platforms 54 and deform the conductive elastic elements 56. The stress induced by the deformation of the conductive elastic elements 56 creates a contact force between the terminator platforms 54 and the contact platforms 64 on the control module 32. The position of the terminators 28 is invariant when the position of the control module 32 varies due to assembly and manufacturing tolerances.
    [033] Figures 7A-7B illustrate an example of configuration of a memorizing wire actuator 25 used to hold a cartridge 20 of the type shown in figure 3 in a drawer 12, according to certain configurations of the present presentation. Figure 7A represents a drawer 12 with a plurality of trays 58 covering the bottom of the bottom. These trays are configured with holes 60 (shown only for position 58A corresponding to cartridge 20 for clarity) that are configured to accept legs 21 of cartridge 20. Figure 7B is a view from the underside of position 58A of tray 58 of the figure 7A. The four holes 60 accept the four legs 21 (not shown) to align the cartridge 20 (not shown) to position 58A. A latch 62 engages the retention feature (not shown) of the cartridge 20 when it is active. The metal memorizing actuator 25 is attached to tray 58 where the terminators 28 are attached to sockets 30 similar to those of the configuration shown in figure 3. The memorizing wire 26 is wrapped around a sliding element 38 similar to that of figure 6, where the contraction of the memorizing wire 26 will pull the sliding element 38 upwards in the orientation of that view, pulling the latch 62 upwards and releasing the retention feature of the cartridge 20. The spring element 64 exerts a downward force, in the orientation of this view, to return the latch to the engaged position. In this configuration, additional spring elements 65 provide a downward force on the sliding element 38A, independent of the spring element 64. This allows the latch 62 to be slid upwards, in the orientation of this view, when the cartridge retention feature 20 is introduced through hole 66 without releasing tension on the memorizing wire 26. A PCBA (removed for clarity) covers this area, where the position of the contact platforms 64 is shown in outline for reference. As discussed in relation to figure 6B, the sliding contact between the terminators 28 and the contact platforms 64 decouples the variation of the PCBA position from the position of the memorizing wire actuator 25, reducing the tolerance accumulation and improving the available range and strength to activate latch 62.
    [034] Figure 8 is a flowchart that describes the method of using a container 20 with a memorizing metal actuator 25 to access an item using an ADM 10, according to certain configurations in this presentation. In step 105, the item is inserted into a container 20 containing a frame 24 with an inner volume and a lid 22 movably attached and detachably attached over the opening of the inner volume, where the lid 22 is secured by an element of connection 34 coupled to a memorizing wire actuator 25 containing a terminator 28 which is attached to the frame 24 of the container 20. The container 20 of figure 3 is an example of such a container. In step 110, this container 20 is transported to an ADM 10 and inserted into a drawer 12 that is configured to receive the container 20. In step 115, a user who wants to remove the item comes to ADM 10 and requests the item. In a hospital setting, this request may include user identification, patient identification, and other security checks and protocols known to those experienced in the art. Upon satisfactory completion of the ordering process, ADM 10 transmits a control signal to container 20 at step 120 to open lid 22 of container 20. Container 20 will energize the memorizing wire 26 on the memorizing wire actuator 25, in this example passing electrical current through the memorizing wire 26. This causes the memorizing wire 26 to shrink, reducing the length of the memorizing wire 26 and exerting a force on the connecting element 34 to which the memorizing wire actuator 25 is coupled. This force causes the connecting element 34 to move from a first position, where the connecting element holds the cover 22, to a second position, where the connecting element releases the cover 22, as shown in step 130. In step 135, cover 22 is opened, which can be performed by the user or by a spring. After the lid 22 is opened, the chain to the memorizing wire 26 is interrupted, de-energizing the memorizing wire 26 and allowing the memorizing wire 26 to expand to its original length and return the connecting element 34 to its original position. The opening of the cover 22 can be detected directly by a sensor or a stopwatch can be used to interrupt the current after the maximum delay time expected for the user to open the cover 22. In step 145, the user removes the item and in step 150, close cover 22.
    [035] It can be seen that the disclosed memorizing wire actuator configurations provide an elegant and space-efficient drive system that is particularly suitable for a controlled dispensing of items. The attachment of the memorizing wire terminators to the container frame, while providing a compatible electrical connection to the control module, eliminating various sources of variation in the construction of a drive mechanism, increasing the available force and the actuator cycle and also improving service life. Reducing the bending of the memorizing wire during operation will also improve the life of the actuator.
    [036] The preceding description is provided to allow any person skilled in the art to put into practice the various aspects described in this document. Although the aforementioned has described what is considered to be the best mode and / or other examples, it is understood that several modifications to these aspects will be immediately evident to those with skill in the technique, the qeneric principles defined in this document can be applied to other aspects . Accordingly, the claims are not intended to be limited to the aspects shown in this document, but it should be agreed that the full scope is consistent with the claims' language, where the reference to an element in the sinqular is not intended to mean "one and only one", unless specifically so determined, but "one or more". Unless specifically stated otherwise, the terms "a set" and "some / ones" refer to one or more. Pronouns in the masculine (eg yours) include the feminine gender (yours) and vice versa. Titles and subtitles, if any, are used for convenience only and do not limit the invention.
    [037] Although the disclosed configuration of an ADM was directed to a drawer in which a container is placed, this same design technique can be applied to any actuator that comprises a memorizing wire. The drawer can be replaced by a flat mounting surface, a portable fixing surface or other surfaces, operationally equivalent, that provide a power and communication connection to the container. This same method of terminating and attaching memorizing wires can also be used in a battery powered system that communicates wirelessly, in such a way that the container is fully functional even when disconnected.
    [038] It is understood that the specific order or hierarchy of the steps in the disclosed processes is an illustration of exemplary approaches. Based on design preferences, it is understood that the specific order or hierarchy of steps in processes can be reordered. Some of the steps can be performed simultaneously. The attached method claims present elements of the various steps in a sample order and are not intended to be limited to the specific order or hierarchy presented.
    [039] Terms such as "top", "bottom", "front", "rear" and the like, as used in this presentation, should be understood as referring to a casual frame of reference and not the common gravitational frame of reference. Thus, an upper surface, a lower surface, a front surface and a rear surface can extend upwards, downwards, diagonally or horizontally in a gravitational frame of reference.
    [040] An expression as an "aspect" does not mean that that aspect is essential for the technology in question or that that aspect applies to all configurations of the technology in question. An aspect-related presentation may apply to all configurations or to one or more configurations. An expression as an aspect, can refer to one or more aspects and vice versa. An expression like a "configuration" does not mean that such a configuration is essential for the technology in question or that such a configuration applies to all configurations of the technology in question. A presentation related to a configuration may apply to all configurations or to one or more configurations. An expression like a setting can refer to one or more settings and vice versa.
    [041] The word "exemplary" is used in this document to mean "serving as an example or illustration". Any aspect or design described in this document as "exemplary" should not necessarily be interpreted as preferred or advantageous over other aspects and designs.
    [042] All structural and functional equivalents of the elements of the various aspects described in the course of this presentation, which are known or will be known to those with common experience in the technique, are expressly incorporated into this document by reference and are intended to be covered by the claims. In addition, nothing presented in this document is intended to be dedicated to the public, regardless of whether such presentation is explicitly mentioned in the claims. No claim element shall be interpreted, in accordance with the provisions of 35 USC §112, sixth paragraph, unless the element is expressly cited using the expression "means for" or, in the case of a method claim, the element is cited using the expression "step to". In addition, to the extent that the terms "includes", "owns" or the like are used in the description or in the claims, such terms are intended to be inclusive in a similar way to the term "comprises" as well as "comprises" is interpreted when used as a transitional word in a claim.
    [043] All elements, parts and steps described in this document are preferably included. It should be understood that any of these elements, parts and steps can be replaced by other elements, parts and steps or deleted altogether as it becomes apparent to those with experience in the art.
    [044] In general terms, this composition discloses a memorizing wire terminator with spring contacts.
    [045] In more detail, this composition also discloses the following: a container for use in a dispensing system. The container comprises a frame, a connecting element movably attached to the frame, a control module and an actuator comprising a memorizing wire with an extension and a terminator which is attached to the memorizing wire. The connecting element has a first position and a second position and the actuator is mechanically coupled to the connecting element. The control module is attached to the frame and comprises a contact element. The terminator is attached to the frame and electrically coupled to the contact element, where the electrical coupling between the memorizing wire and the contact element is mechanically compatible, such that the position of the terminator in relation to the frame is invariable when the position of the control module in relation to the frame varies. CONCEPTS
    [046] This composition presents at least the following concepts:
    [047] Concept 1. A container, comprising: a frame; a connecting element movably attached to the frame, the connecting element containing a first position and a second position; a control module comprising a contact element, the control module attached to the frame; and an actuator comprising a memorizing wire with an extension and a terminator that is attached to the memorizing wire, the actuator mechanically coupled to the connecting element, where the terminator is attached to the frame and electrically coupled to the contact element, where the electrical coupling between the memorizing wire and the contact element is mechanically compatible, such that the position of the terminator in relation to the frame is invariant when the position of the control module in relation to the frame varies.
    [048] Concept 2. The Concept 1 container, where the actuator is configured in such a way that a reduction in the length of the memorizing wire will cause the connecting element to move from the first position to the second position.
    [049] Concept 3. The Concept 1 ADM, where the actuator terminator is directly and fixedly attached to the container frame.
    [050] Concept 4. The Concept 1 container, where the end of the memorizing wire extends beyond the terminator and is electrically connected to the contact element.
    [051] Concept 5. The Concept 1 container, where the terminator comprises a conductive elastic element that is electrically coupled between the memorizing wire and the contact element.
    [052] Concept 6. The Concept 5 container, where the conductive elastic element is deformed by the contact element, in such a way that there is a contact force between the conductive elastic element and the contact element.
    [053] Concept 7. The Concept 6 container, where: the control module is a printed circuit board (PCBA) unit; the contact element is an electrical contact platform on the PCBA; and the PCBA is configured in such a way that the PCBA compresses a portion of the conductive elastic element when the PCBA is attached to the frame.
    [054] Concept 8. The Concept 1 container, where: the frame has an interior volume with an opening; the container further comprises a lid movably attached to the frame, the lid containing an attached fastener; the cover configured to cover the opening; and the connecting element is configured to engage the cover fastener when it is in the first position and to release the fastener when it is in the second position.
    [055] Concept 9. The Concept 8 container, where the container comprises a plurality of interior volumes, a plurality of lids, a plurality of connecting elements and a plurality of actuators and where each interior volume has a respective lid.
    [056] Concept 10. A container, comprising: a frame; a connecting element pivotally attached to the frame, the connecting element containing a first position and a second position; a sliding element slidably attached to the frame along a fixed axis with respect to the frame, the sliding element coupled to the connecting element; and an actuator comprising a memorizing wire with an extension and a terminator that is attached to the wire, the actuator mechanically coupled to the sliding element, the terminator attached to the frame, where the memorizing wire is substantially parallel to the movement axis of the sliding element and where a reducing the length of the memorizing wire will cause the connecting element to move from the first position to the second position.
    [057] Concept 11. The Concept 10 container, where: the actuator comprises two terminators attached to opposite ends of the memorizing wire; the two terminators are attached to the frame adjacent to each other and on a second axis perpendicular to the axis of the sliding element; and the memorizing wire extends from one terminator to the sliding element, around a portion of the sliding element and returns to the other terminator in such a way that the portions of the memorizing wire between each terminator and the sliding element are substantially parallel to the movement axis of the sliding element.
    [058] Concept 12. The Concept 10 container, where: the frame has an interior volume with an opening; the container further comprises a lid movably attached to the frame, the lid containing an attached fastener; the cover configured to cover the opening; and the connecting element is configured to engage the cover fastener when it is in the first position and to release the fastener when it is in the second position.
    [059] Concept 13. The Concept 12 container, where the container comprises a plurality of interior volumes, a plurality of lids, a plurality of connecting elements and a plurality of actuators and where each interior volume has a respective lid.
    [060] Concept 14. The Concept 1 ADM, where the actuator terminator is directly and fixedly attached to the container frame.
    [061] Concept 15. An automated dispensing machine (ADM) comprising: a container comprising: a frame; a connecting element movably attached to the frame, the connecting element containing a first position and a second position; a control module comprising a connector and a contact element, the control module attached to the frame; and an actuator comprising a memorizing wire with an extension and a terminator that is attached to the memorizing wire, the actuator mechanically coupled to the connecting element, where the terminator is attached to the frame and electrically coupled to the contact element, where the electrical coupling between the memorizing wire and the contact element is mechanically compatible in such a way that the movement of the control module does not cause the terminator to move and where the actuator is configured in such a way that a reduction in the length of the memorizing wire will cause the connecting element moves from the first position to the second position; where the control module is configured to accept a control signal via the connector and cause the connecting element to move to the second position in response to the control signal; a dispensing machine casing; a drawer mounted inside the dispensing machine housing, the drawer configured to receive the container, the drawer comprising a coupling connector that matches the container connector when the container is received in the drawer unit, and a processor coupled to the connector coupling, the processor configured to transmit the control signal to the container via the coupling connector.
    [062] Concept 16. The Concept 15 ADM, where the actuator terminator is directly and fixedly attached to the container frame.
    [063] Concept 17. The Concept 15 ADM, where: the container frame comprises an interior volume with an opening; the container further comprises a lid movably attached to the frame, the lid containing an attached fastener; the cover configured to cover the opening; and the connecting element is configured to engage the cover fastener when it is in the first position and to release the fastener when it is in the second position.
    [064] Concept 18. The Concept 17 ADM, where the container still comprises a plurality of interior volumes, a plurality of lids, a plurality of connecting elements and a plurality of actuators and where each interior volume has a respective lid.
    [065] Concept 19. A method of dispensing items, the method comprising the steps of: inserting at least one item in a container comprising a frame containing an internal volume with an opening and a lid that is movably attached to the frame and detachably attached to the opening by a connecting element coupled to an actuator comprising a memorizing wire and a terminator, where the terminator is directly and fixedly attached to the frame; receiving the container in a drawer of an automatic dispensing machine (ADM); request the item to be accessed at ADM; transmitting a signal to open the ADM lid to the container; and open the lid of the container that contains the item.
    [066] Concept 20. The Concept 17 method, where the steps of: energizing the memorizing wire of the actuator, where the actuator is coupled to the connection element, thereby causing the memorizing wire to be shortened and apply a force to the element connecting, thereby causing the connecting element to move from a first position to a second position, where the connecting element in the first position secures the cover and in the second position releases the cover; releasing the lid and thus allowing the lid to be opened; and de-energize the memorizing wire.
    权利要求:
    Claims (19)
    [0001]
    1. "MEMORIZER WIRE TERMINATOR", having a container (20), having: a frame (24); a connecting element (34) movably attached to the frame, the connecting element containing a first position and a second position; a control module (32), having a contact element (52), the control module attached to the frame; and an actuator (25), having a memorizing wire (26) with an extension and a terminator (28) which is attached to the memorizing wire, the actuator mechanically coupled to the connecting element, characterized in that the terminator is attached to the frame and has a conductive elastic element (56) that is electrically coupled between the memorizing wire and the contact element, in which the electrical coupling between the memorizing wire and the contact element is mechanically compatible, so that the position of the terminator in relation to the frame is invariable when the position of the control module in relation to the frame varies.
    [0002]
    2. "MEMORIZING WIRE TERMINATOR", having a container (20), according to claim 1, characterized in that the actuator (25) is configured so that a reduction in the length of the memorizing wire (26) causes the element connector (34) moves from the first position to the second position.
    [0003]
    3. "MEMORIZING WIRE TERMINATOR", having an ADM, according to claim 1, characterized in that the terminator (28) of the actuator is directly and fixedly attached to the frame (24) of the container.
    [0004]
    4. "MEMORIZING WIRE TERMINATOR", having a container (20), according to claim 1, characterized in that the end of the memorizing wire (26) extends beyond the terminator (28) and is electrically connected to the contact element ( 52).
    [0005]
    5. "MEMORIZING WIRE TERMINATOR", having a container (20), according to claim 1, characterized in that the conductive elastic element (56) is deformed by the contact element (52), so that there is a contact force between the conductive elastic element and the contact element.
    [0006]
    6. "MEMORIZER WIRE TERMINATOR", having a container (20), according to claim 5, characterized in that the control module (32) is a printed circuit board unit (PCBA); the contact element (52) is an electrical contact platform on the PCBA; and the PCBA is configured so that the PCBA compresses a portion of the conductive elastic element (56) when the PCBA is attached to the frame (24).
    [0007]
    7. "MEMORIZING WIRE TERMINATOR", having a container (20) according to claim 1, characterized in that the frame (24) has an interior volume with an opening; the container also having a lid (22) movably attached to the frame, the lid having an attached fastener (23); the cover configured to cover the opening; and the connecting element being configured to engage the cover fastener when it is in the first position and to loosen the fastener when it is in the second position.
    [0008]
    8. "MEMORIZING WIRE TERMINATOR", having a container (20) according to claim 7, characterized in that the container has a plurality of interior volumes, a plurality of lids (22), a plurality of connecting elements (34 ) and a plurality of actuators (25) and each interior volume has a respective cover.
    [0009]
    9. "MEMORIZING WIRE TERMINATOR", having a container (20), having: a frame (24); a connecting element (34) pivotally attached to the frame, the connecting element having a first position and a second position; a sliding element (38) slidably attached to the frame along a fixed axis with respect to the frame, the sliding element coupled to the connecting element; and an actuator (25), having a memorizing wire (26) with an extension and a terminator (28) attached to the wire, the actuator mechanically coupled to the sliding element, the terminator attached to the frame and having a conductive elastic element (56) which is electrically coupled between the memorizing wire and the contact element, characterized in that the memorizing wire is substantially parallel to the movement axis of the sliding element and in which a reduction in the length of the memorizing wire causes the connecting element to move from the first position to the second position.
    [0010]
    10. "MEMORIZING WIRE TERMINATOR", having a container (20) according to claim 9, characterized in that the actuator (25) has two terminators (28) attached to opposite ends of the memorizing wire; the two terminators being attached to the frame (24) adjacent to each other and on a second axis perpendicular to the axis of the sliding element (38); and the memorizing wire extending from one terminator to the sliding element, around a portion of the sliding element and returning to the other terminator, so that the portions of the memorizing wire between each terminator and the sliding element are substantially parallel to the movement axis of the sliding element.
    [0011]
    11. "MEMORIZING WIRE TERMINATOR", having a container (20) according to claim 9, characterized in that the frame has an interior volume with an opening; the container also having a lid (22) movably attached to the frame, the lid having an attached fastener (23); the cover configured to cover the opening; and the connecting element being configured to engage the cover fastener when it is in the first position and to loosen the fastener when it is in the second position.
    [0012]
    12. "MEMORIZING WIRE TERMINATOR", having a container (20) according to claim 11, characterized in that the container has a plurality of interior volumes, a plurality of lids (22), a plurality of connecting elements (34 ) and a plurality of actuators (25) and each interior volume has a respective cover.
    [0013]
    13. "MEMORIZER WIRE TERMINATOR", having an ADM, according to claim 1, characterized in that the terminator (28) of the actuator is directly and fixedly attached to the frame (24) of the container.
    [0014]
    14. "MEMORIZING WIRE TERMINATOR", having an automated dispensing machine (ADM) (10), comprising: a container (20), having: a frame (24); a connecting element (34) movably attached to the frame, the connecting element having a first position and a second position; a control module (32), having a connector and a contact element (52), the control module attached to the frame; and an actuator (25), having a memorizing wire (26) with an extension and a terminator (28) which is attached to the memorizing wire, the actuator mechanically coupled to the connecting element, characterized in that the terminator is attached to the frame and has a conductive elastic element (56) that is electrically coupled between the memorizing wire and the contact element, in which the electrical coupling between the memorizing wire and the contact element is mechanically compatible, so that the movement of the control module does not cause the movement of the terminator and in which the actuator is configured so that a reduction in the length of the memorizing wire causes the connecting element to move from the first position to the second position; wherein the control module is configured to accept a control signal via the connector and causes the connecting element to move to the second position in response to the control signal; a dispensing machine casing (11); a drawer (12) mounted inside the dispensing machine housing, the drawer configured to receive the container (20), the drawer having a coupling connector that matches the container connector when the container is received in the drawer unit, and a processor coupled to the coupling connector, the processor configured to transmit the control signal to the container (20) via the coupling connector.
    [0015]
    15. "MEMORIZING WIRE TERMINATOR", having an ADM, according to claim 14, characterized in that the terminator (28) of the actuator is directly and fixedly attached to the frame (24) of the container.
    [0016]
    16. "MEMORIZING WIRE TERMINATOR", having an ADM, according to claim 14, characterized in that the frame (24) of the container has an interior volume with an opening; the container also having a lid (22) movably attached to the frame, the lid having an attached fastener (23); the cover configured to cover the opening; and the connecting element being configured to engage the βn cover fastener when it is in the first position and to release the fastener when it is in the second position.
    [0017]
    17. "MEMORIZING WIRE TERMINATOR", having an ADM, according to claim 16, characterized in that the container also has a plurality of interior volumes, a plurality of lids (22), a plurality of connecting elements (34 ) and a plurality of actuators (25) and each interior volume has a respective cover.
    [0018]
    18. "MEMORIZER WIRE TERMINATOR", having a method of dispensing items, the method having the steps of: inserting at least one item in a container (20), having a frame (24) with an internal volume with a opening and a cover (22) that is movably attached to the frame and detachably attached over the opening by a connecting element (34) coupled to an actuator (25) that has a memorizing wire (26) and a terminator ( 28), characterized in that the terminator is directly and fixedly attached to the frame and has an elastic conductive element (56) that is electrically coupled between the memorizing wire and the contact element, in which the electrical coupling between the memorizing wire and the contact is mechanically compatible, so that the position of the terminator in relation to the frame is invariable when the position of the control module in relation to the frame varies; receiving the container in a drawer (12) of an automatic dispensing machine (ADM) (10); request the item to be accessed at ADM; transmitting a signal to open the ADM lid (22) to the container; and open the lid (22) of the container that contains the item.
    [0019]
    19. "MEMORIZING WIRE TERMINATOR", having the method, according to claim 18, also having the steps of: energizing the memorizing wire (26) of the actuator, characterized in that the actuator (25) is coupled to the connection (34), thus causing the memorizing wire to be shortened and applying force to the connection element, thus causing the connection element to move from a first position to a second position, where the element connection cable in the first position secures the cover (22) and in the second position releases the cover; release the lid (22), thus allowing the lid to be opened; and de-energize the memorizing wire (26)
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    EP2668359A2|2013-12-04|
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    WO2012103021A3|2012-11-08|
    ES2808530T3|2021-03-01|
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    法律状态:
    2018-12-18| B06F| Objections, documents and/or translations needed after an examination request according [chapter 6.6 patent gazette]|
    2019-11-12| B06U| Preliminary requirement: requests with searches performed by other patent offices: procedure suspended [chapter 6.21 patent gazette]|
    2020-06-09| B09A| Decision: intention to grant [chapter 9.1 patent gazette]|
    2020-10-27| B16A| Patent or certificate of addition of invention granted|Free format text: PRAZO DE VALIDADE: 20 (VINTE) ANOS CONTADOS A PARTIR DE 23/01/2012, OBSERVADAS AS CONDICOES LEGAIS. |
    优先权:
    申请号 | 申请日 | 专利标题
    US13/012/721|2011-01-24|
    US13/012,721|US8457784B2|2011-01-24|2011-01-24|Memory wire terminator with spring contacts|
    PCT/US2012/022243|WO2012103021A2|2011-01-24|2012-01-23|Memory wire terminator|
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