Dispensing device for controlled dispensing of a drug, method of managing the dispensing device, and system comprising the dispensing device
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202480085954.9
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2024-01-25
- Filing Date
- 2024-12-18
- Publication Date
- 2026-08-28
Smart Images
Figure CN122662829A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This invention relates to a system for assisting patients in taking medication.
[0002] Specifically, the present invention relates to a dispensing device for controlled administration of medication to a patient in the form of tablets.
[0003] The present invention also relates to a method for managing the dispensing device for correctly dispensing pills to a patient. Background Technology
[0004] Dispensing devices are known to assist patients in taking their medications correctly according to the prescribed dosage and at the correct time.
[0005] Known types of dispensing devices include a base structure divided into multiple compartments, each compartment arranged to receive one or more tablets to be taken at a predetermined time of day. If a patient must take different types of medication at the same time, each compartment will be filled by the patient with the tablets corresponding to that time.
[0006] The base structure is advantageously surrounded by a housing that defines a dispensing port for dispensing tablets from inside the device to the outside.
[0007] In this type of dispensing device, the base structure is preferably circular, and each receiving compartment is defined by a corresponding sector area, which is arranged side-by-side adjacent to each other and around the central axis of the structure. The housing is preferably constructed to include a circular upper covering portion (or cover) on which a dispensing opening is defined, for example, a channel opening consisting of through holes.
[0008] In the first type of dispensing device of this type, the cap is rotatable relative to the base structure below it, and the cap is rotated from time to time to a predetermined position so that the dispensing port is aligned with a predefined compartment below. In such a configuration, tablets can be passed through the dispensing port, for example, by inverting the device and causing the tablets to fall out from the fan-shaped area through the dispensing port. A suitable automated rotating mechanism facilitates rotating the cap to the correct position at a pre-set time.
[0009] In the second type of dispensing device, the base structure is rotatable relative to the fixed cover, and the base structure rotates to a predetermined position so that the receiving sector area is aligned with the dispensing opening of the cover. A suitable automated rotating mechanism facilitates rotating the base structure to the correct position at a pre-set time.
[0010] Using a known type of dispenser involves introducing the pills to be taken into a compartment based on the dosage indicated in a medical prescription. In particular, each compartment contains pills to be taken at a predetermined time, even if they are of different types.
[0011] At a pre-set time, the dispenser will automatically align the compartment with the dispensing port, and the patient will be able to remove the tablet from inside for ingestion.
[0012] The present invention aims to improve known types of allocation systems.
[0013] The purpose of this invention is to provide a solution that allows for the facilitation of tablet dispensing based on medical prescriptions.
[0014] Another object of the present invention is to provide a solution that allows for a simplified operation of the tablet dispenser compared to known types of systems.
[0015] A further object of the present invention is to provide a solution that allows for a reduction in tablet loading and / or dispensing errors compared to known types of systems.
[0016] Another object of the present invention is to provide a solution that allows control over the correct dispensing of pills to patients. Summary of the Invention
[0017] In its first aspect, the present invention therefore relates to a dispensing device for dispensing a drug in tablet form, the device comprising: - A base structure having multiple compartments, wherein each compartment is configured to receive one or more of the tablets; - The accommodating structure of the base structure, the accommodating structure including the dispensing port of the tablet; - An operating mechanism for moving the base structure to several positions relative to the receiving structure; The dispensing device includes a dispensing cavity disposed between the base structure and the receiving structure, the dispensing cavity communicating with the outside of the device via the dispensing port, wherein each compartment includes a first outlet and a second outlet for the tablet, and the actuating mechanism is configured to move the base structure to allow the tablet to reach the dispensing cavity from the compartment only through the first outlet or only through the second outlet.
[0018] In a preferred embodiment, the shape of the first outlet is different from the shape of the second outlet.
[0019] Preferably, the first outlet has a shape that allows the passage of first-type tablets of a predetermined size, and the second outlet has a shape that allows the passage of second-type tablets smaller than the first-type tablets and prevents the passage of first-type tablets.
[0020] According to a preferred embodiment, the dispensing device further includes a movable baffle located at the dispensing chamber, the movable baffle being adapted to be in a closed position and at least one open position, the closed position being adapted to prevent tablets from passing through a first outlet or a second outlet of each of the plurality of compartments, and the open position being adapted to allow tablets to pass through a first outlet or a second outlet of each of the plurality of compartments.
[0021] In a preferred embodiment, the dispensing device includes a mechanism for moving the movable baffle.
[0022] Preferably, the base structure is a type of structure that rotates about a rotation axis.
[0023] According to a preferred embodiment, the base structure is cylindrical.
[0024] In a preferred embodiment, each of the plurality of compartments extends over a sector-shaped area.
[0025] Preferably, the operating mechanism includes a rotating mechanism for rotating the base structure.
[0026] According to a preferred embodiment, the compartment includes a first alignment mechanism and / or a second alignment mechanism, the first alignment mechanism being adapted to align one of the tablets toward a first outlet, and the second alignment mechanism being adapted to align one of the tablets toward a second outlet.
[0027] In a preferred embodiment, the dispensing device includes a first detection device for detecting the presence of a tablet in the dispensing cavity. Preferably, the first detection device includes a light source and at least one photodetector.
[0028] According to a preferred embodiment, the dispensing device includes a second detection device adapted to detect the passage of a tablet at the inlet of the dispensing chamber. Preferably, the second detection device includes a light source and at least one photodetector.
[0029] Preferably, an openable baffle is associated with the dispensing port. According to a preferred embodiment, the dispensing device includes a sensor for detecting the position of the openable baffle.
[0030] In a preferred embodiment, the dispensing device includes a detection device for detecting the tilt position (preferably the upright position) of the dispensing device.
[0031] Preferably, the distribution device includes a control unit and / or a power supply unit and / or a wireless communication unit and / or an interface device for interacting with the user.
[0032] In another aspect, the present invention relates to a method for dispensing one or more tablets to be taken at a predetermined time using a dispensing device according to the above description, wherein the method comprises the following steps: a) Move the base structure so as to place a first outlet or a second outlet of one of the compartments in communication with the distribution cavity; b) Passing a single tablet from the compartment to the dispensing chamber through the first outlet or the second outlet, the number of times steps a) and b) are performed corresponds to the number of tablets to be taken at the predetermined time; The drug present in the dispensing cavity is dispensed through the dispensing port.
[0033] In another aspect, the present invention relates to a system comprising a cloud server, a user device for storing and executing at least one program, and at least one distribution device, the at least one program comprising instructions, wherein the distribution device is made as described above. Attached Figure Description
[0034] Further advantages, objects, and features of the invention as claimed, and embodiments thereof, are set forth in the following description, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which features of the invention and / or corresponding or equivalent components can be identified by the same reference numerals. Specifically, in the figures: - Figure 1 An isometric view of a dispensing device according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention is shown; - Figure 2 It shows Figure 1 The dispensing device is in the first operating position; - Figure 3 It shows Figure 1 The dispensing device is in the second operating position; - Figure 4 It shows Figure 3 Exploded view of the distribution device in the middle; - Figure 5 It shows Figure 1 An exploded view of the dispensing device, with some components removed; - Figure 6 It shows Figure 1 A partial view of the dispensing device, with some components removed; - Figure 6A It shows Figure 6 Magnified details; - Figure 7 It shows Figure 5 The dispensing device in which some components have been removed; - Figure 7AIt shows Figure 7 Magnified details; - Figure 8 It shows Figure 7 Exploded view of the distribution device in the middle; - Figure 9 It shows the separation from the rest. Figure 4 Enlarged details of the components of the dispensing device in the image; - Figure 10 Shown in isometric view Figure 9 Components in; - Figure 11 It shows along Figure 10 A cross-sectional view along line XI°-XI°; - Figure 12 Some tablets that can be used in the dispensing device of the present invention are shown; - Figures 13 to 16 Details of the dispensing device of the present invention in different operating positions during operation are shown; - Figure 17 A system including the dispensing device of the present invention is shown. Detailed Implementation
[0035] Although specific embodiments will be set forth in the following description with reference to the accompanying drawings, it is apparent that the invention is not limited to those specific embodiments, but rather that the specific embodiments described below clarify various aspects of the invention, the scope of which is defined by the claims.
[0036] The preferred embodiments of the dispensing device of the present invention described below are found to be particularly suitable for portable types of dispensing devices that are easy to transport by patients and are therefore small in size.
[0037] However, it should be noted that the dispensing device according to the invention is applicable to dispensing devices of any size.
[0038] Figure 1 The diagram illustrates a non-limiting embodiment of the dispensing device 10 for the object of the present invention. Figure 17 The dispensing device 10 of the present invention is shown in an integrated system 1000 in its possible preferred use.
[0039] The dispensing device 10 according to the invention, hereinafter also simply referred to as a dispenser, includes a base structure 12 on which a plurality of compartments 14 may be formed. Each compartment 14 is configured to receive one or more tablets, as described below.
[0040] According to the preferred embodiment described and shown in the figures, the base structure 12 preferably has a generally cylindrical shape, and the number of compartments 14 is preferably four and extends on the respective circular sectors 14. These four compartments 14 are preferably equal to each other, both in terms of angular extension and shape.
[0041] The base structure 12 forms a bottom surface 12a shared with the compartments 14, and a side surface 12b, in this case a cylindrical side surface 12b, which opens at the top. The bottom surface 12a defines the bottom of each compartment 14.
[0042] In preferred embodiment variations not shown, the base structure may have different shapes, and the number and / or shape of the compartments may also differ from those described and shown above.
[0043] The base structure 12 is preferably housed in a receiving element 13 with an opening at the top, which is preferably cylindrical.
[0044] The dispenser 10 then includes an external housing structure (or housing), generally indicated by reference numeral 16.
[0045] The housing structure 16 preferably has a box shape and is provided with an openable portion 18 (or lid 18) at the top.
[0046] Opening the cap 18 allows access to the base structure 12, and in particular to the compartment 14, to perform the operation of filling / refilling the tablets to be taken.
[0047] The receiving structure 16 includes a main dispensing port 19 through which tablets ultimately pass from the inside to the outside of the dispenser 10 in the manner described below.
[0048] Associated with the main dispensing port 19 is an openable baffle 20, preferably a sliding baffle 20, which the patient / user can manually operate to dispense the tablet if needed.
[0049] In a preferred embodiment, a sensor for detecting the position of the openable baffle 20, preferably a sensor suitable for detecting the closed position of the baffle 20, is associated with the main distribution port 19.
[0050] According to one aspect of the invention, the base structure 12 is movable to occupy a certain position relative to the receiving structure 16: for this purpose, an actuating mechanism 22 is provided to move the base structure 12.
[0051] According to the embodiments described and shown in the figures, the base structure 12 is preferably of the type that rotates about the rotation axis X, and the operating mechanism 22 consists of a rotating mechanism 22 that allows the base structure 12 to rotate, as described in detail below.
[0052] In a preferred embodiment variant not shown, the base structure may move in a different manner, such as translation rather than rotation. In this case, the actuating mechanism will be appropriately configured to translate the base structure.
[0053] A first covering element 24 is preferably positioned above the base structure 12 and its corresponding compartment 14. The first covering element is fixed to the receiving structure 16 and is provided with an openable baffle 26.
[0054] The second covering element 25 is positioned to cover the gap area between the receiving structure 16 and the base structure 12.
[0055] During operation, baffle 26 remains in the closed position, and all compartments 14 are also closed on top by the first covering element 24. When dispenser 10 is being loaded or reloaded, baffle 26 is brought to the open position to allow tablets to be introduced into the respective compartments 14 in the manner described below.
[0056] The baffle 26 is sized such that when in the open position, only one of the compartments 14 below can be accessed.
[0057] Preferably, the baffle 26 has the shape of a circular sector, the extension of which is substantially equal to the extension of one of the compartments 14 below.
[0058] The baffle 26 is preferably hinged to the first cover element 24 at the hinge region 26a, and more preferably includes a handle 26b.
[0059] The first covering element 24 and the baffle 26 are preferably made of a transparent material, more preferably of a transparent plastic material, which allows the contents of the compartment 14 to be seen.
[0060] According to one aspect of the invention, the dispenser 10 includes a dispensing cavity 30 located between the base structure 12 and the receiving structure 16.
[0061] The dispensing cavity 30 extends to the outside of the dispenser 10 via the main dispensing port 19. The dispensing cavity 30 is preferably defined between the side surface 12b of the base structure 12 and the main dispensing port 19.
[0062] In one aspect of the invention, each compartment 14 includes a first outlet 32 and a second outlet 34 for a tablet.
[0063] The following description will refer to one of these compartments 14, and it is obvious that the description can be applied to the other compartments 14, since they are all the same.
[0064] The outlets 32 and 34 of the compartment 14 are preferably formed on the side surface 12b of the base structure 12.
[0065] According to one aspect of the invention, at several locations on the base structure 12, a first outlet 32 or a second outlet 34 of the compartment 14 communicates with the distribution cavity 30.
[0066] For this purpose, the operating mechanism 22 is configured to move the base structure 12 to a first position and a second position, in which only the first outlet 32 of the compartment 14 leads to the dispensing cavity 30, and in the second position only the second outlet 34 of the compartment 14 leads to the dispensing cavity 30. In this way, the tablet is allowed to be delivered from the compartment 14 to the dispensing cavity 30 only through the first outlet 32, as... Figure 14 As shown; or allow the tablet to be transferred from compartment 14 to dispensing chamber 30 only through the second outlet 34, as shown. Figure 16 As shown.
[0067] The first outlet 32 and the second outlet 34 have different shapes from each other: in particular, the first outlet 32 has a shape that allows first-type tablets of a predetermined size to pass through, and the second outlet 34 has a shape that allows second-type tablets of a smaller size than the first-type tablets to pass through. In addition, the second outlet 34 has a shape that prevents first-type tablets from passing through.
[0068] In the context of this invention, the classification of a tablet into one type rather than another depends on its size: in particular, the parameters that distinguish whether a tablet belongs to one type or another are preferably composed of its width L, l and its height H, h, taking into account that the tablet is stationary on a plane, for example, stationary on the bottom of compartment 14.
[0069] For example, Class I tablets may include round tablets Pc, oblong tablets Po, or capsules C, such as Figure 12 As shown, each of the tablets may have a corresponding width L and height H.
[0070] The second type of tablets may include round tablets Pc or oblong tablets Po, wherein each of the tablets may have a corresponding width l and height h.
[0071] For the sake of simplicity, the first type of pills will be referred to as "large pills," and the second type of pills will be referred to as "small pills."
[0072] Tablets can be classified into Class I tablets (large tablets) based on their maximum and minimum L and H dimensions, as indicated in the table below:
[0073] Tablets can be classified as Class II tablets (small tablets) based on their maximum and minimum dimensions l and h, as indicated in the table below:
[0074] In addition to the parameters of width L, l and height H, h, further parameters consisting of the length P of the tablet can be considered, for example... Figure 12 The length P of the oblong tablet Po or capsule C is indicated in the diagram. This parameter is advantageously used in the design phase to determine the dimensions of compartment 14 and the number of tablets each compartment can hold.
[0075] According to the embodiments described and shown in the figures, the first outlet 32 preferably has a rectangular shape, in which a predetermined base b1 and a predetermined height h1 may be provided, and the second outlet 34 preferably has a rectangular shape, in which a predetermined base b2 and a predetermined height h2 may be provided, such as... Figure 9 As indicated in the document.
[0076] In a preferred embodiment, the first outlet 32 has a base value b1 equal to 12 mm and a height h1 equal to 8 mm; the second outlet 34 has a base value b2 equal to 7.5 mm and a height h2 equal to 5 mm.
[0077] Therefore, in this configuration, the first outlet 32 allows both large and small pills to pass through; the second outlet 34 only allows small pills to pass through, while preventing large pills from passing through.
[0078] Therefore, according to this embodiment, the first outlet and the second outlets 32, 34 preferably have a rectangular shape. This allows for optimization of the manufacturing steps of the base structure 12, particularly when it is made using a molding process with plastic material. However, in variations of the embodiment, the first outlet and / or the second outlet can have different shapes, such as elliptical, polygonal, mixed linear, etc., and appropriate dimensions. The shape and size will be determined to allow the passage of first-type tablets of a predetermined size through the first outlet, allow the passage of second-type tablets smaller than the first-type tablets through the second outlet, and also prevent the passage of first-type tablets through the second outlet.
[0079] The passage of tablets from compartment 14 to dispensing chamber 30 via one of outlets 32 and 34 is advantageously achieved by tilting the dispenser 10, thereby arranging the dispensing chamber 30 and the main dispensing port 19 downward and allowing tablets from compartment 14 to fall into dispensing chamber 30 by gravity, more preferably by placing the dispenser 10 in an upright position.
[0080] In the following description, when referring to the dispensing position of dispenser 10, it means its positioning in an inclined (preferably upright) position, wherein the main dispensing port 19 is arranged downward.
[0081] The first outlet 32 and the second outlet 34 are preferably arranged circumferentially on the side surface 12b of the base structure 12 so that they do not overlap.
[0082] In order to allow the first type of tablet (large tablet) to be delivered from compartment 14 through the first outlet 32 to the dispensing cavity 30, the base structure 12 is moved / rotated so that the first outlet 32 opens into the dispensing cavity 30, while the second outlet 34 is blocked, for example in... Figure 13 and 14 As shown in the diagram. Similarly, in order to allow the second type of tablets (small tablets) to be delivered from compartment 14 through the second outlet 34 to the dispensing cavity 30, the base structure 12 moves / rotates such that the second outlet 34 opens into the dispensing cavity 30, while the first outlet 32 is blocked, as shown in the diagram. Figure 15 and 16 As shown.
[0083] The correct alignment of the first outlet 32 or the second outlet 34 with the dispensing cavity 30 is advantageously achieved by the manipulation mechanism 22, as better described below.
[0084] Therefore, the way the tablets are dispensed depends on the system that controls the manipulation mechanism 22, which is responsible for rotating the base structure 12, as described below for example with respect to the preferred operating mode of the dispenser 10.
[0085] Preferably, a first alignment mechanism 40 is formed within the compartment 14, the first alignment mechanism 40 being adapted to facilitate the correct alignment of the tablet toward the first outlet 32, and a second alignment mechanism 50 being adapted to facilitate the correct alignment of the tablet toward the second outlet 34.
[0086] The first alignment mechanism 40 preferably includes a curved surface 42 extending from the first outlet 32 into the compartment 14, more preferably a circular surface. The curved surface 42 serves to induce a suitable rotation of the large tablet (typically on a capsule Cp), thereby guiding it to the first outlet 32, such as... Figure 13 and 14 As shown.
[0087] The second alignment mechanism 50 preferably includes a channel portion 52, which is suitably shaped such that the small pills are arranged in a row in the direction of the second outlet 34. The channel portion 52 preferably has a cross-sectional shape corresponding to the second outlet 34, more preferably a rectangular cross-section.
[0088] In an advantageous aspect of the dispenser 10 according to the invention, tablets are passed from compartment 14 to dispensing chamber 30 one at a time. In particular, large tablets are passed from compartment 14 to dispensing chamber 30 through a first outlet 32, and small tablets are passed from compartment 14 to dispensing chamber 30 through a second outlet 34.
[0089] This occurs when the dispenser 10 is arranged in an inclined dispensing position (preferably upright).
[0090] In a preferred embodiment, the dispenser 10 includes a first detection device 80 for detecting the presence or absence of a tablet in the dispensing chamber 30.
[0091] According to a preferred embodiment, the first detection device 80 includes a light source 82 adapted to illuminate a light beam in the distribution cavity 30 and a receiver 84 adapted to detect the light. The receiver 84 preferably includes an array of receiving photodiodes 84 positioned at the bottom of the distribution cavity 30, such as... Figure 7A As shown, the light source 82 is preferably positioned above the dispensing cavity 30. More preferably, the light source 82 is positioned at the second covering element 25, as shown. Figure 4 As shown in the figure, it faces downward toward the dispensing cavity 30.
[0092] In a preferred embodiment variant not shown, the light source and / or receiver can be arranged in different locations. For example, the light source can be positioned on the cover, aligned with the dispensing cavity, in which case a second covering element is provided to allow the light beam to pass through, for example by using a second transparent covering element or by providing an opening in the second covering element corresponding to the dispensing cavity below.
[0093] The presence or absence of a tablet in the dispensing cavity 30 is determined by analyzing the output signal of the receiving photodiode 84. When the dispensing cavity 30 is empty, all receiving photodiodes detect a beam of light, while the presence of a tablet in the dispensing cavity 30 causes the beam of light to be interrupted in some receiving photodiodes.
[0094] To ensure that only one tablet passes through at a time, the movable baffle 60 is preferably located at the dispensing cavity 30 and can be in a closed position and at least one open position, the closed position being adapted to prevent the tablet from passing through the outlets 32, 34, and the open position being adapted to allow the tablet to pass through one of the outlets 32, 34.
[0095] The movable baffle 60 is preferably supported by the receiving element 13 and is slidable relative to the latter.
[0096] The opening and closing of the baffle 60 is advantageously controlled, and the dispenser 10 includes a control mechanism 62 associated with the baffle 60.
[0097] According to the embodiment described and shown in the figures, the baffle 60 is of a slidable type and preferably consists of a movable partition that slides relative to the outside of the side surface 12b of the base structure 12. More preferably, the movable baffle 60 includes an arc-shaped curved movable partition.
[0098] The control mechanism 62 preferably includes an actuator 64, which is provided with a shaft 66 that is capable of being positioned between an extended position corresponding to the baffle 60 being closed and a retracted position corresponding to the baffle 60 being open.
[0099] A toothed portion 66a is formed on a shaft 66, and the toothed portion interacts with the toothed portion 60a of a baffle 60 via a connecting rod 70 movable about a pivot 72. The connecting rod 70 is provided with toothed portions 74a and 74b that mesh with the corresponding toothed portions 66a and 60a of the shaft 66 and the baffle 60.
[0100] Actuator 64 preferably comprises a solenoid actuator, wherein shaft 66 is in an extended rest position and a retracted position when actuator 64 is actuated. Shaft 66 is preferably held in the rest position by a return spring (not visible). Therefore, the opening time of baffle 60 is controlled by controlling the actuation time of actuator 64.
[0101] According to an aspect of the invention, the opening time of the baffle 60 is advantageously controlled to allow only one tablet to pass through the respective outlets 32, 34 when the dispenser 10 is in the tilted (preferably upright) dispensing position.
[0102] In a preferred embodiment, the opening time of the baffle 60 is a predetermined value, preferably a predetermined value that depends on which of the two outlets 32, 34 is involved in the passage of the tablet. For example, the opening time of the baffle 60 will have a first predetermined value to allow large tablets to pass through the first outlet 32, which will be higher than the opening time of the baffle 60 to allow small tablets to pass through the second outlet 34.
[0103] Furthermore, the opening time of the baffle 60 can depend on the length P of the tablet, for example, an opening time proportional to the length P of the tablet can be provided.
[0104] In a preferred alternative embodiment, the start-up time of the actuator 64 (and therefore the opening time of the baffle 60) ends when the actual passage of the tablet into the dispensing chamber 30 is identified.
[0105] In a preferred embodiment, the determination of the passage of the tablet in the dispensing cavity 30 is preferably performed by using a first detection device 80 for detecting the presence or absence of the tablet in the dispensing cavity 30.
[0106] The passage of the tablet is determined by analyzing information from the first detection device 80 during the activation of the baffle 60. For example, the passage of the tablet is verified once the first detection device 80 detects the presence of the tablet in the dispensing cavity 30.
[0107] In another preferred embodiment, the determination of the passage of the tablet in the dispensing cavity 30 is preferably performed by a special second detection device 86 adapted to detect the passage of the tablet and positioned at the entrance of the dispensing cavity 30.
[0108] Preferably, the second detection device 86 includes a sensor capable of detecting the passage of an object. In a preferred embodiment, the detection device 86 includes a light source 82 adapted to illuminate a light beam in the entrance region of the dispensing cavity 30 and a receiver 88 positioned in the entrance region of the dispensing cavity 30, the receiver 88 being adapted to detect the light, such as... Figure 7A As shown.
[0109] In the illustrated embodiment, the light source 82 is preferably the same light source 82 as the first detection device 80, and the receiver 88 includes one or more photodiodes 88, such as PIN photodiodes.
[0110] The passage of the tablet is determined by analyzing the output signal of the receiving photodiode 88. The passage of the tablet at least partially interrupts the light beam directed toward the receiving photodiode 88, and this interruption is subsequently detected by the photodiode 88 itself.
[0111] A preferred embodiment of the operating mechanism 22 of the base structure 12 is described below.
[0112] According to the embodiment described and shown in the accompanying drawings, the operating mechanism 22 is composed of a rotating mechanism 22 that allows the base structure 12 to rotate about the rotation axis X.
[0113] The rotating mechanism 22 includes a motor 90 adapted to control the rotation of the central rotating pin 92 of the base structure 12 mounted thereon.
[0114] Preferably, the base structure 12 is mounted on the central pin 92 in a fixed and predetermined relative position. This is ensured by the square shape of the pin 92 and the reference rib 92a, as well as the corresponding shape of the through seat 94 formed in the center of the base structure 12 and the reference groove 94a, as shown below. Figure 6A As shown.
[0115] The transmission system 96 mechanically connects the output shaft 90a of the motor 90 to the central rotating pin 92. The transmission system 96 preferably includes three gears 96a, 96b, and 96c that mesh with each other.
[0116] In a preferred embodiment, the dispenser 10 is preferably equipped with a detection device for detecting the dispensing position (i.e., the tilted, preferably upright position of the dispenser 10).
[0117] The detection device for detecting the dispensing position is preferably manufactured using an inertial measurement unit (IMU). This unit allows information about the positioning of the dispenser 10 in space, and this information will be used to verify the correct positioning of the dispenser 10 when dispensing tablets.
[0118] The distributor 10 is preferably equipped with a control unit 100 and a power supply unit 102, such as Figure 1As schematically shown, the control and power supply of various electrical and electronic components of the dispenser 10 itself, such as the power supply and control of the rotation mechanism 22 of the base structure 12, the control mechanism of the baffle 60, the first detection device and the second detection devices 80, 86, the detection device for detecting the dispensing position, and the power supply and control of a sensor for detecting the position of the openable baffle 20, if present.
[0119] The control unit 100 and the power supply unit 102 are housed within the housing structure 16, for example, in the gap area between the base structure 12 and the housing structure 16.
[0120] The control unit 100 may include one or more storage devices and one or more microprocessor units, which can be used to execute program instructions.
[0121] A user interface device 110 may be formed on the housing structure 16, more preferably on the cover 18, which preferably includes input devices, such as one or more buttons 110a, 110b and / or status display devices 112, such as one or more LEDs.
[0122] These interface devices 110 allow users to interact with and use the dispenser 10.
[0123] Through the interface device 110, the user can select an operating mode and / or monitor the operating status of the distributor 10. In one embodiment not shown, the input and display devices can be integrated into a single device, such as a touchscreen device.
[0124] Alternatively, the distributor 10 may be connected to one or more remote user equipment 200 and / or external networks that are accessible to users. The remote user equipment 200 preferably includes mobile devices 200 or similar computing devices, such as computers, laptops, tablets, etc.
[0125] This integrated system 1000 in Figure 17 As shown in the image.
[0126] In this case, the distributor 10 preferably includes a wireless communication module 104 associated with the control unit 100.
[0127] The communication module 104 is preferably configured to communicate with the user equipment 200, for example, via known communication protocols such as Bluetooth®, Zigbee®, etc.
[0128] The distributor device 10 is preferably associated with the user equipment 200 through a known pairing process.
[0129] User equipment 200 is then configured to connect to cloud 120, such as cloud server 120.
[0130] Cloud server 120 can be a server that provides cloud services. Cloud server 120 can include virtual servers that collaborate with various devices across the Internet.
[0131] The cloud server 120 preferably includes an application storage server in which at least one application or APP is stored. A user device 200, also configured to access the network, can advantageously install the APP by requesting a download from the cloud server 120.
[0132] In a variant of the embodiment, communication module 104 is also preferably configured to communicate with access point 106, which allows distributor 10 to connect to a network. Preferably, access point 106 allows wireless communication between distributor 10 and the network. For example, access point 106 may be a Wi-Fi connection, allowing connection to the network via Wi-Fi communication. The network may preferably include one or more local area networks (LANs), geographic networks (WANs), etc. Access point 106 also allows connection to cloud 120.
[0133] Access point 106 is also commonly referred to as a home gateway. In a preferred embodiment, access point 106 is a residential gateway, such as a DSL modem. In a further preferred embodiment, access point 106 can be a smartphone device appropriately configured as access point 106.
[0134] As described above, user equipment 200 is preferably configured to host a specific application, which is preferably downloadable from cloud server 120, and manages the steps of loading or reloading allocator 10 through the specific application.
[0135] The control unit 100 and user equipment 200 allow management of the dispenser 10 and its use by the user / patient via appropriate applications.
[0136] In the following description, possible operating modes of the dispenser 10 of the present invention will be described, with particular reference to Figures 13 to 16 ,exist Figures 13 to 16 For clarity, some components of dispenser 10 have been removed, such as, for example, the first cover element and the second cover elements 24, 25 have been removed so that the contents of compartment 14 can be seen.
[0137] In a preferred use of the dispenser 10, each compartment 14 is filled with multiple tablets of the same type, such as multiple tablets of a predetermined type to be taken at the same time each day.
[0138] In the accompanying drawings, as an example only, the four compartments 14 are filled with corresponding tablets of different types, and each compartment 14 is filled with the same type of tablets.
[0139] The user can load (or reload) the allocator 10 by launching the APP application on their user device 200.
[0140] Therefore, the steps to reload the compartment are performed under the guidance of the application, which provides the user with the operation steps. Specifically, the user can follow the step-by-step operations on the screen of the user device 200.
[0141] First, the dosage and timing of the pills to be taken based on a medical prescription are loaded into the app. The app, communicating with the dispensing device 10, sends a signal indicating the need for the loading / reloading step. This request is preferably indicated by one of the LEDs 112 illuminating. The user sets the dispensing device 10 with the cap 18 and upper baffle 26 open.
[0142] The control unit 100 will align the open baffle 26 with the first compartment 14, and the type and number of tablets to be filled into the first compartment 14 will be displayed on the screen of the user device 200. For example, the first compartment 14 must be filled with 4 capsules C, which must be taken, for example, at a predetermined time of day.
[0143] Once the four capsules C have been loaded into the first compartment 14, the user confirms that loading has occurred, for example by using a special icon on the screen of the user device 200.
[0144] The control unit 100 and / or user equipment 200 record that the loading of the first compartment 14 with capsule C has occurred, preferably by storing this information in a special database.
[0145] Then, the control unit 100 aligns the new compartment 14 at the opened baffle 26 by rotating the base structure 12. The type and number of tablets to be filled in the second compartment 14 will be displayed on the screen of the user device 200. For example, the second compartment 14 must be filled with 8 round tablets Pc, which must be taken, for example, at a predetermined time of day.
[0146] Once the eight round pills Pc have been loaded into the second compartment 14, the user confirms that loading has occurred, for example by using a special icon on the screen of the user device 200.
[0147] The control unit 100 and / or user equipment 200 record that the loading of the second compartment 14 with the circular tablet Pc has occurred, preferably by storing this information in a special database.
[0148] Then, the loading of tablets into subsequent compartments 14 continues in the same manner as described above, for example by filling the third compartment 14 with an oblong tablet Po and the fourth compartment 14 with a capsule C.
[0149] Once loading / reloading is complete, the upper baffle 26 and cover 18 can be closed, and the dispensing device 10 is ready for use.
[0150] When loading is complete, the control unit 100 and / or user equipment 200 will have stored the types and quantities of pills present in all compartments 14.
[0151] The control unit 100 and / or user equipment 200 also always know the position of the base structure 12 of its compartment 14 and thus the relative position of each compartment 14 with respect to the distribution cavity 30.
[0152] In addition, the control unit 100 and / or user equipment 200 can control the rotation of the base structure 12 relative to the receiving structure 16, thereby controlling which compartment 14 and which outlet 32, 34 of each compartment 14 are correctly aligned with the distribution cavity 30.
[0153] At the expected medication time, the dispensing device 10 signals the user to the event, for example by one of the LEDs 112 lighting up or by an audible signal.
[0154] The user sets the dispensing device 10 at the dispensing position, i.e., tilted, preferably vertical, with the main dispensing port 19 arranged downwards.
[0155] The user initiates the dispensing process of the pill to be taken at the scheduled time by operating, for example, one of the buttons 110a or 110b on the cap 18.
[0156] Subsequent dispensing of tablets by the dispensing device 10 is carried out under the supervision of the control unit 100 and / or the user equipment 200, which interact by actuating and controlling various components of the dispensing device 10, as described below.
[0157] As an example, see reference Figures 13 to 16 The following describes some steps for dispensing two tablets, one capsule C, and one round tablet Pc to be taken at a predetermined time. In these figures, the dispensing device 10 is shown in a horizontal position only for simplicity of representation, but in actual use, the user places the dispensing device in an inclined, preferably vertical, dispensing position.
[0158] In the dispensing position of the dispensing device 10, the base structure 12 rotates, aligning the first outlet 32 of the first compartment 14 with the dispensing cavity 30, as shown below. Figure 13 As shown. In this position, the capsule C in the first compartment 14 is in the dispensing position due to the action of the first alignment mechanism 40.
[0159] Subsequently, as Figure 14As shown, the baffle 60 opens for a certain time interval to allow only one capsule C to pass through the first outlet 32 and enter the dispensing chamber 30, as described above. After closing the baffle 60, the user can continue to open the movable baffle 20 to collect the capsule C present in the dispensing chamber 30 that has been dispensed by falling through the main dispensing port 19. The user then closes the movable baffle 20 and confirms that dispensing has occurred, for example, by using a special button on the cap 18. The dispensing device 10 continues with the subsequent steps of dispensing the round tablet Pc.
[0160] In a preferred embodiment, a signal indicating that capsule C has actually exited the dispensing chamber 30 may be displayed on the screen of user equipment 200 or via status display device 112, or a signal indicating a possible anomaly due to capsule C failing to exit the dispensing chamber 30 may be displayed. This can be achieved by using the first detection device 80 to control the presence or absence of medication in the dispensing chamber 30.
[0161] Furthermore, in a preferred embodiment of the above method, subsequent steps are performed after checking that the movable baffle 20 is actually closed, for example by checking the appropriate position sensor of the baffle 20. If the movable baffle 20 is closed, the method proceeds normally; otherwise, a signal indicating the open position is sent to the user, for example by illuminating one of the LEDs 112 or by an audible signal. The method resumes after the user closes the movable baffle 20.
[0162] The base structure 12 rotates so that the second outlet 34 of the second compartment 14 is aligned with the distribution cavity 30, as shown. Figure 15 As shown. In this position, the circular tablet Pc in the second compartment 14 is in the dispensing position due to the action of the second alignment mechanism 50. Subsequently, as... Figure 16 As shown, the baffle 60 opens for a certain time interval to allow only one round tablet Pc to pass through the second outlet 34 and enter the dispensing chamber 30, as described above. After closing the baffle 60, the user can continue to open the movable baffle 20 to collect the round tablet Pc present in the dispensing chamber 30 that has been dispensed by falling through the main dispensing port 19. The user then closes the movable baffle 20 and confirms that dispensing has occurred, for example, by using a special button on the cap 18.
[0163] In a preferred embodiment, a signal indicating that the circular tablet Pc has actually exited the dispensing cavity 30 can be emitted on the screen of the user equipment 200 or via the status display device 112, or a signal indicating a possible abnormality due to the circular tablet Pc failing to exit the dispensing cavity 30 can be emitted. This can be achieved by using the first detection device 80 to control the presence or absence of medication in the dispensing cavity 30.
[0164] Therefore, it can be considered that the distribution of tablets C and Pc has been completed.
[0165] In a preferred embodiment of the above method, when the dispensing device 10 is equipped with a detection device for detecting the dispensing position, the step requiring the dispensing device to be arranged in an inclined dispensing position is constrained by the effective detection of the dispensing position. For example, if the dispensing position detection device detects the correct inclination of the dispensing device 10, the method proceeds normally; otherwise, an incorrect position signal is issued to the user, for example, by lighting one of the LEDs 112 or by an audible signal. The method resumes after the user places the dispensing device 10 in the desired inclined dispensing position.
[0166] According to the preferred embodiment described and illustrated above, each compartment of the base structure includes two outlets suitably configured for dispensing two different types of tablets. In a variant of the preferred embodiment not shown, this inventive concept can be suitably extended, and each compartment can preferably include three or more outlets suitably configured to allow dispensing of tablets belonging to three or more different types.
[0167] Therefore, the above detailed description of embodiments of the device according to the invention has demonstrated that the device according to the invention allows for the achievement of a predetermined purpose. In particular, the device according to the invention allows for the convenient dispensing of tablets according to medical prescriptions.
[0168] Furthermore, the dispensing device according to the preferred embodiment illustrated and described above is configured to be easily transported by a user (in a pocket), who can advantageously take the tablet at the desired time.
[0169] In a preferred embodiment, the lanyard may be associated with a dispensing device to facilitate its transportability / allow it to be worn by a user.
[0170] Although the invention has been set forth above in detail by way of the embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings, the invention is not limited to the embodiments shown in the drawings and as described above.
[0171] Conversely, the scope of this invention is defined by the claims.
Claims
1. A dispensing device (10) for dispensing a drug in the form of tablets (C, Pc, Po), said device (10) comprising: - A base structure (12) having a plurality of compartments (14), wherein each compartment (14) is configured to receive one or more of the tablets (C, Pc, Po); - The accommodating structure (16) of the base structure (12) includes a dispensing port (19) for the tablet (C, Pc, Po); - A control mechanism (22) for moving the base structure (12) relative to the receiving structure (16) to several positions; The device is characterized in that it includes a dispensing cavity (30) disposed between the base structure (12) and the receiving structure (16), the dispensing cavity (30) communicating with the outside of the device (10) via the dispensing port (19), and each compartment (14) including a first outlet (32) and a second outlet for the tablets (C, Pc, Po), and the actuating mechanism (22) is configured to move the base structure (12) to allow the tablets (C, Pc, Po) to be transferred from the compartment (14) to the dispensing cavity (30) only via the first outlet (32) or only via the second outlet (34).
2. The apparatus (10) as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The shape of the first outlet (32) is different from the shape of the second outlet (34).
3. The apparatus (10) as described in any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The first outlet (32) has a shape that allows the passage of first-class tablets (C, Pc, Po) of a predetermined size, and the second outlet (34) has a shape that allows second-class tablets (Pc, Po) of a size smaller than the first-class tablets (C, Pc, Po) to pass through and prevents the passage of the first-class tablets (C, Pc, Po).
4. The apparatus (10) as claimed in any of the preceding claims, characterized in that, It also includes a movable baffle (60) disposed at the dispensing cavity (30), the movable baffle being adapted to be in a closed position and at least one open position, the closed position being adapted to prevent tablets (C, Pc, Po) from passing through the first outlet (32) or the second outlet (34) of each of the plurality of compartments (14), the at least one open position being adapted to allow tablets (C, Pc, Po) to pass through the first outlet (32) or the second outlet (34) of each of the plurality of compartments (14).
5. The apparatus (10) as claimed in claim 4, characterized in that, It includes the control mechanism (62) of the movable baffle (60).
6. The apparatus (10) as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The base structure (12) is a type of structure that rotates about the axis of rotation (X).
7. The apparatus (10) as claimed in any of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The base structure (12) is cylindrical.
8. The apparatus (10) as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, Each of the plurality of compartments (14) extends over a sector area.
9. The apparatus (10) as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The operating mechanism (22) includes a rotating mechanism for rotating the base structure (12).
10. The apparatus (10) as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The compartment (14) includes a first alignment mechanism (40) and / or a second alignment mechanism (50), the first alignment mechanism being adapted to align one of the tablets (C, Pc, Po) toward the first outlet (32), and the second alignment mechanism being adapted to align one of the tablets (C, Pc, Po) toward the second outlet (34).
11. The apparatus (10) as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, It includes a first detection device (80) and / or a second detection device (86), the first detection device being used to detect the presence of tablets (C, Pc, Po) in the dispensing cavity (30), preferably the first detection device (80) including a light source (82) and at least one photodetector (84), the second detection device being adapted to detect the entry of tablets (C, Pc, Po) into the dispensing cavity (30), preferably the second detection device (86) including a light source (82) and at least one photodetector (88).
12. The apparatus (10) as claimed in any of the preceding claims, characterized in that, It includes a control unit (100) and / or a power supply unit (102) and / or a wireless communication unit (104) and / or an interface device (110) for interacting with a user.
13. A method for dispensing medicament in one or more tablets (C, Pc, Po) to be taken at a predetermined time using a dispensing device (10) made as described in any of the preceding claims, characterized in that, It includes the following steps: a) Move the base structure (12) to connect the first outlet (32) or the second outlet (34) of one of the plurality of compartments (14) to the distribution cavity (30); b) Passing a single tablet (C, Pc, Po) from the compartment (14) to the dispensing chamber (30) via the first outlet (32) or via the second outlet (34), the number of times steps a) and b) are performed corresponds to the number of medications to be taken at the predetermined time; The drug present in the dispensing cavity (30) is dispensed via the dispensing port (19).
14. A system comprising a cloud server (120), a user equipment (200), and at least one distribution device (10), the user equipment storing and executing at least one program, the at least one program comprising instructions, wherein the distribution device (10) is made as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 12.