Dispenser apparatus with multiple intake slots

Abstract

A dispensing apparatus housing includes a first intake opening, a second intake opening, and an outtake opening. The intake openings are each configured to receive a strip of pouches. A first advancing assembly is configured to advance a strip of pouches along a first intake path from the first intake opening to a selection mechanism. A second advancing assembly is configured to advance a strip of pouches along a second intake path from the second intake to the selection mechanism. A third advancing assembly is configured to advance a strip of pouches along an outtake path from the selection mechanism to the outtake opening.

Description

DISPENSER APPARATUS WITH MULTIPLE INTAKE SLOTSCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This patent application claims priority to United States Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 573,988, filed on April 3, 2024 and entitled “DISPENSER APPARATUS WITH MULTIPLE INTAKE SLOTS”, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] This application generally relates to dispensers for pre-packaged medications, and more specifically to dispensers that can be loaded with a strip of medication pouches while another strip of medication pouches is being dispensed by the dispenser.BACKGROUND

[0003] Patients may be prescribed drugs in the form of multi-dose packaging. For example, one or more medications in the form of pills, tablets, gel caps, and the like may be packaged into individual dosage ‘pouches’. Each ‘pouch’ may contain one or more dosage forms of one or more medications that are to be taken by a patient at a similar time. For example, one pouch may contain a set of medication(s) that are to be taken by a patient in the morning, and another pouch may contain a different set of medication(s) that are to be taken by the patient in the evening. Such an arrangement may be particularly helpful for patients who have complicated dosage schedules for two or more medications, and / or for patients who have exhibited difficulty complying with the scheduled dosing of one or more medications that they are taking. For example, this may be particularly helpful for patients who face cognitive difficulties.

[0004] One conventional form of multi-dose packaging is to provide continuous ‘strips’ of dosage pouches. Typically, the pouches of a strip will be arranged so that the dosage pouches are in sequential order, corresponding with a dosing schedule for a patient. Such an arrangement allows for the pouches to be separated from the strip in sequential order and dispensed to the patient according to their individualized dosing schedule.

[0005] Some conventional multi-dose packaging-based dispensers only accept one multi-dose packaging strip at a time. Such dispensers may have a relatively short ‘refill window’ - i.e. the time at which the end of one strip is reached and another strip needs to be loaded in the dispenser. Additionally, or alternatively, loading such dispensers may involve more complex (and / or ad-hoc) procedures, such as taping the leading edge of one multi-dose packaging strip to the trailing edge of the prior strip.

[0006] If the patient (or caretaker, or other person responsible for reloading the dispenser) does not have the time, forgets, or otherwise fails to reload the dispenser during the refill window, there is a risk that the patient will fail to follow their prescribed medication schedule.SUMMARY

[0007] The following introduction is provided to introduce the reader to the more detailed discussion to follow. The introduction is not intended to limit or define any claimed or as yet unclaimed invention. One or more inventions may reside in any combination or sub combination of the elements or process steps disclosed in any part of this document including its claims and figures.

[0008] As disclosed herein, a dispensing apparatus includes two intakes for receiving and advancing strips of dosage pouches. Each intake leads first to a respective intake path, and then on to a common outtake path. Such a configuration may provide one or more advantages.

[0009] For example, such a ‘two-slot intake’ apparatus may increase medication compliance and / or facilitate healthcare worker scheduling by extending the drug refill window.

[0010] Additionally, or alternatively, by providing a single multi-dose packaging medication storage compartment and multiple independent intakes that converge into one cutting mechanism further down the feeding channel through a junction mechanism, the overall size of the dispensing apparatus may be reduced or minimized. For example, apparatus as disclosed herein may be more compact than dispensers that are sized to receive two full multi-dose packaging strips at the same time.

[0011] Additionally, or alternatively, the loading and / or reloading process of such a ‘two-slot intake’ apparatus may be characterized as being simplified in comparison to other designs.

[0012] In accordance with one broad aspect, there is provided a dispensing apparatus comprising: a housing; a first intake opening defined in the housing; a first intake path extending from the first intake opening to an intake of a common outtake path; at least one first conveying actuator configured to advance a strip of pouches received at the first intake opening along the first intake path, a first one of the at least one first conveying actuator being positioned proximate the first intake opening and configured to engage a leading end of a strip of pouches presented at the first intake opening; a second intake opening defined in the housing; a second intake path extending from the second intake opening to the intake of the common outtake path; at least one second conveying actuator configured to advance a strip of pouches received at the second intake opening along the second intake path, one of the at least one second conveying actuator being positioned proximate the second intake opening and configured to engage a leading end of a strip of pouches presented at the second intake opening; a third conveying actuator positioned proximate the intake of the common outtake path; and a selection mechanism positioned proximate and upstream of the third conveying actuator and configured to selectively direct the leading end of the strip of pouches that has been advanced along either of the first intake path the second intake path towards the third conveying actuator; the third conveying actuator being configured to engage the leading end of the strip of pouches that has been directed by the directing roller and advance the strip of pouches along the common outtake path towards an outtake opening defined in the housing.

[0013] In some embodiments, the dispensing apparatus further comprises: a separation mechanism positioned within the common outtake path and configured to separate pouches from the strip of pouches; and a fourth conveying actuator positioned proximate the outtake opening and configured to advance pouches separated from the strip of pouches within the common outtake path to the outtake opening.

[0014] In some embodiments, the first intake opening, the second intake opening, and the outtake opening are longitudinally aligned.

[0015] In some embodiments, the dispensing apparatus further comprises a loading area in communication with the first intake opening and the second intake opening, the loading area being configured to receive therein a second strip of pouches while a first strip of pouches is being dispensed by the dispensing apparatus.

[0016] In some embodiments, the loading area has a usable interior volume that is between about 110% and 195% of an expected volume of a full roll of compatible pouches.

[0017] In some embodiments, the usable interior volume of the loading area is about 125% of the expected volume of a full roll of compatible pouches.

[0018] In some embodiments, the selection mechanism comprises a directing roller, and wherein when the directing roller is rotated in a first direction, a leading end of a strip of pouches that has been advanced along the first intake path may be urged towards the third conveying actuator, and when the directing roller is rotated in a second direction, a leading end of a strip of pouches that has been advanced along the second intake path may be urged towards the third conveying actuator.

[0019] In some embodiments, the at least one first conveying actuator comprises two first conveying actuators, a second one of the at least one first conveying actuator being positioned downstream from the first one of the at least one first conveying actuator and upstream of the intake of the common outtake path, the second one of the at least one first conveying actuator being configured to engage a leading end of a strip of pouches advanced by the first one of the at least one first conveying actuator.

[0020] In some embodiments, the at least one second conveying actuator comprises two second conveying actuators, a second one of the at least one second conveying actuator being positioned downstream from the first one of the at least one second conveying actuator and upstream of the intake of the common outtake path, the second one of the at least one second conveying actuator being configured to engage a leading end of a strip of pouches advanced by the first one of the at least one second conveying actuator.

[0021] In some embodiments, the dispensing apparatus further comprises: a first intake strip detector positioned adjacent to the first intake opening and configured to detect a presence of a strip of pouches at the first intake opening; and a second intakestrip detector positioned adjacent to the second intake opening and configured to detect a presence of a strip of pouches at the second intake opening.

[0022] In some embodiments, the dispensing apparatus further comprises: a first outtake strip detector positioned adjacent to an outtake of the first intake path and configured to detect a presence of a strip of pouches in the first intake path; and a second outtake strip detector positioned adjacent to an outtake of the second intake path and configured to detect a presence of a strip of pouches in the second intake path.

[0023] In some embodiments, the dispensing apparatus further comprises: an outtake path strip detector positioned downstream of the third conveying actuator configured to detect a presence of a strip of pouches in the common outtake path.

[0024] In some embodiments, the dispensing apparatus further comprises a controller, wherein the controller is configured to: in response to detecting, using the first intake strip detector, the presence of a leading end of a first strip of pouches at the first intake opening, activate the at least one first conveying actuator to advance the first strip of pouches along the first intake path; detect, using the first outtake strip detector, the presence of the leading end of the first strip of pouches at the outtake of the first intake path; determine, using the outtake path strip detector, if another strip of pouches is present in the common outtake path; and after determining that the common outtake path is clear of another strip of pouches, activate the third conveying actuator to advance the first strip of pouches along the common outtake path.

[0025] In some embodiments, the controller is further configured to: in response to detecting, using the second intake strip detector, the presence of a leading end of a second strip of pouches at the second intake opening, activate the at least one second conveying actuator to advance the second strip of pouches along the second intake path; detect, using the second outtake strip detector, the presence of the leading end of the second strip of pouches at the outtake of the second intake path; and after determining that the common outtake path is clear of another strip of pouches, activate the third conveying actuator to advance the second strip of pouches along the common outtake path.

[0026] In some embodiments, the dispensing apparatus further comprises: a first optical sensor directed towards the first intake path and configured to detect indiciaprinted on a strip of pouches positioned in the first intake path to determine at least one of: an identification of a patient to whom medication in the strip of pouches positioned in the first intake path is prescribed; and a dosing schedule associated with the strip of pouches positioned in the first intake path.

[0027] In some embodiments, the dispensing apparatus further comprises a controller, wherein the controller is configured to communicate with a remote computing device when determining the at least one of the identification of a patient and the dosing schedule.

[0028] In some embodiments, the dispensing apparatus further comprises at least one of: a first illumination source provided on a same side of the first intake path as the first optical sensor to provide top lighting of the strip of pouches positioned in the first intake path; and a second illumination source provided on an opposite side of the first intake path as the first optical sensor to provide backlighting the strip of pouches positioned in the first intake path.

[0029] In some embodiments, the dispensing apparatus further comprises: a second optical sensor directed towards the second intake path and configured to detect indicia printed on a strip of pouches positioned in the second intake path to determine at least one of: an identification of a patient to whom medication in the strip of pouches positioned in the second intake path is prescribed; and a dosing schedule associated with the strip of pouches positioned in the second intake path.

[0030] In some embodiments, the dispensing apparatus further comprises a controller, wherein the controller is configured to communicate with a remote computing device when determining the at least one of the identification of a patient and the dosing schedule.

[0031] In some embodiments, the dispensing apparatus further comprises at least one of: a first illumination source provided on a same side of the second intake path as the second optical sensor to provide top lighting of the strip of pouches positioned in the second intake path; and a second illumination source provided on an opposite side of the second intake path as the second optical sensor to provide backlighting the strip of pouches positioned in the second intake path.

[0032] In some embodiments, the dispensing apparatus further comprises: at least one intake guiding feature positioned proximate at least one of the first intake opening and the second intake opening.

[0033] In some embodiments, the at least one intake guiding feature comprises a first intake lighting element positioned proximate the first intake opening and a second intake lighting element positioned proximate the second intake opening.

[0034] In some embodiments, the at least one intake guiding feature comprises a first brush strip positioned proximate the first intake opening and a second brush strip positioned proximate the second intake opening.

[0035] In some embodiments, the at least one intake guiding feature comprises an intake flap assembly that includes a flap body pivotally secured to the dispensing apparatus, the flap body being movable between a raised position and a lowered position.

[0036] In accordance with another broad aspect, there is provided a method for advancing a strip of pouches through a dispensing apparatus, the method comprising: detecting a presence of a leading end of a strip of pouches at a first intake opening of the dispensing apparatus; activating an advancing assembly associated with the first intake to advance the strip of pouches along a first intake path; detecting a presence of the leading end of the strip of pouches at an outtake of the first intake path; determining a presence of another strip of pouches in a common outtake path of the dispensing apparatus; in response to determining that the common outtake path is clear: advancing the leading end of the strip of pouches along the common outtake path until it reaches a a separation mechanism positioned within the common outtake path, in response to determining that the common outtake path is not clear: holding leading end of the strip of pouches in the first intake path until the common outtake path is clear.

[0037] In some embodiments, the method further comprises: determining at least one of: a patient identification, and a dosing schedule for medication in the strip of pouches.

[0038] In some embodiments, the determining of the patient identification and / or the dosing schedule is performed using an optical sensor of the dispensing apparatus to detect indicia printed on the strip of pouches.

[0039] In some embodiments, the method further comprises: comparing a determined patient identification against a patent identification associated with dispensing apparatus, and in response to determining a mismatch of the compared patient identifications, ejecting the strip of pouches from the dispensing apparatus.

[0040] In some embodiments, the method further comprises: comparing a determined dosing schedule against an expected dosing schedule stored in the dispensing apparatus, and in response to determining a mismatch of the compared dosing schedules, obtaining a new or updated dosing schedule to be stored in the dispensing apparatus.

[0041] In accordance with another broad aspect, there is provided a method of dispensing by a dispensing apparatus, the dispensing apparatus comprising: a housing, a first intake opening defined in the housing, a second intake opening defined in the housing, an outtake opening defined in the housing, at least one first conveying actuator, at least one second conveying actuator, a third conveying actuator positioned proximate an intake of a common outtake path, and a selection mechanism controllable by a controller; the method comprising: controlling the at least one first conveying actuator to advance a first strip of pouches along a first intake path to the intake of the common outtake path; controlling the selection mechanism to direct a leading end of the first strip of pouches towards the third conveying actuator; controlling the third conveying actuator to advance the first strip of pouches along the common outtake path towards the outtake opening; while at least a portion of the first strip of pouches is in the common outtake path, controlling the at least one second conveying actuator to advance a second strip of pouches along a second intake path to the intake of the common outtake path; and in response to detecting that the first strip of pouches is no longer in the first intake path, controlling the selection mechanism to direct a leading end of the second strip of pouches towards the third conveying actuator.

[0042] In some embodiments, the method further comprises: while at least a portion of the second strip of pouches is in the common outtake path, controlling theat least one first conveying actuator to advance a third strip of pouches along the first intake path.

[0043] In some embodiments, the method further comprises: in response to detecting that the second strip of pouches is no longer in the second intake path, controlling the selection mechanism to direct a leading end of the third strip of pouches towards the third conveying actuator.

[0044] In some embodiments, the method further comprises: in response to determining that the at least a portion of the first strip of pouches is in the common outtake path: before controlling the at least one second conveying actuator to advance the second strip of pouches along the second intake path, generating an alert to insert the second strip of pouches into the second intake opening.

[0045] In accordance with one broad aspect, there is provided a dispenser apparatus comprising: a housing; a first intake opening defined in the housing, a second intake opening defined in the housing, and an outtake opening defined in the housing; the first intake opening being configured to receive a first strip of pouches; a first advancing assembly positioned in the housing and configured to advance the first strip of pouches along a first intake path within the housing, the first intake path starting from the first intake opening and leading to a selection device within the housing; the second intake opening configured to receive a second strip of pouches; a second advancing assembly positioned in the housing and configured to advance the second strip of pouches along a second intake path within the housing, the second intake path starting from the second intake and leading to the selection device within the housing; the selection device controllable by a controller to select between moving the first strip of pouches along an outtake path and moving the second strip of pouches along the outtake path, the outtake path starting from the selection device and leading to the outtake opening; and the outtake opening configured to output at least a given pouch of the first strip of pouches during a first time period while the first strip of pouches is in the outtake path, and the outtake opening configured to output at least another given pouch of the second strip of pouches during a second time period while the second strip of pouches is in the outtake path.

[0046] In some embodiments, the dispenser apparatus further comprises a separation assembly positioned within the housing and configured to separate at leastthe given pouch from the first strip of pouches, and to separate at least the another given pouch from the second strip of pouches.

[0047] In some embodiments, the separation device is at a position on the outtake path and the cutting blade is oriented to cut horizontally across the outtake path.

[0048] In some embodiments, the selection device comprises a selection roller; the selection roller comprising a selection roller surface and the selection roller is positioned with the selection roller surface intersecting the first intake path and the second intake path; the selection roller coupled to a selection motor and controllable by the controller to rotate the selection roller surface in different directions at different times; and wherein the selection motor is controllable to rotate the selection roller surface in a counter clockwise direction to move one of the first strip of pouches or the second strip of pouches to the outtake path, and the selection motor is controllable to rotate the selection roller surface in a clockwise direction to move the other one of the first strip of pouches or the second strip of pouches to the outtake path.

[0049] In some embodiments, the selection device further comprises at least one third conveying actuator positioned at a spaced distance downstream from the selection roller, the at least one first conveying actuator comprising one or more actuators controllable by the controller to move the first strip of pouches along the outtake path during the first time period and to move the second strip of pouches along the outtake path during the second time period.

[0050] In some embodiments, the at least one third conveying actuator comprises a roller that is configured to rotate, under power of one or more actuators, in a first rotational direction to move the first strip of pouches along the outtake path during the first time period and to move the second strip of pouches along the outtake path during the second time period.

[0051] In some embodiments, the first strip of pouches comprises a first major surface and a second major surface facing opposite and away from the first major surface; wherein the second strip of pouches comprises a second major surface and a third major surface facing opposite and away from the second major surface; wherein, in a concurrent storage state that comprises at least a portion of the first strip of pouches positioned in the first path and concurrently the second strip of pouches positioned in the second path, the second major surface of the first strip of pouchesand the third major surface of the second strip of pouches face toward each other, and the first major surface of the first strip of pouches and the fourth major surface of the second strip of pouches face away from each other.

[0052] In some embodiments, the first strip of pouches further comprises a first longitudinal edge and a second longitudinal edge that is opposite and parallel to the first longitudinal edge, and are separated by a first width; wherein the second strip of pouches further comprises a third longitudinal edge and a fourth longitudinal edge that is opposite and parallel to the third longitudinal edge, and are separated by a second width equal to the first width; and, in the concurrent storage state, the first longitudinal edge of the first strip of pouches and the third longitudinal edge of the second strip of pouches define a first plane, and the second longitudinal edge of the first strip of pouches and the fourth longitudinal edge of the second strip of pouches define a second plane, and the first plane and the second plane are parallel to each other separated by the first width.

[0053] In some embodiments, the dispenser apparatus further comprises: a first sensor positioned adjacent to the first intake path and configured to detect an absence and a presence of the first strip of pouches in the first intake path; a second sensor positioned adjacent to the second intake path and configured to detect an absence and a presence of the second strip of pouches in the second intake path.

[0054] In some embodiments, the dispenser apparatus further comprises: a third sensor positioned adjacent to the outtake path and configured to detect an absence or a presence of any one of the first strip of pouches or the second strip of pouches in the outtake path.

[0055] In some embodiments, each of the first sensor, the second sensor and the third sensor are a light reflective sensor, the light reflective sensor comprising a light source configured to emit a light beam and a light detector configured to detect a reflection of the light beam to detect an object presence.

[0056] In some embodiments, each of the first sensor, the second sensor and the third sensor are a reflective infrared sensor.

[0057] In some embodiments, the first sensor, the second sensor, and the third sensor are electrically coupled to the controller and respectively transmit sensor datato the controller, and the controller stores thereon executable instructions to process the sensor data to automatically control the selection device to select between moving the first strip of pouches along the outtake path and moving the second strip of pouches along the outtake path.

[0058] In some embodiments, the housing further defines therein a storage cavity for holding a portion of the first strip or the second strip; the storage cavity is positioned adjacent to the first intake opening and the second intake opening; the storage cavity comprises a storage opening; and wherein the first intake opening, the second intake opening and the storage opening are oriented to face to a same direction.

[0059] In some embodiments, in a first storage state: a leading portion of the first strip of pouches is positioned in the first intake path or in the outtake path, and at least an end portion of the first strip of pouches is positioned in the storage cavity; and wherein in a second storage state: the end portion of the first strip of pouches is positioned in the first intake path, a leading portion of the second strip of pouches is positioned in the second intake path, and at least an end portion of the second strip of pouches is positioned in the storage cavity.

[0060] In accordance with another broad aspect, there is provided a method of dispensing by a dispensing apparatus, the dispensing apparatus comprising: a housing, a first intake opening defined in the housing, a second intake opening defined in the housing, an outtake opening defined in the housing, a first advancing device positioned in the housing, a second advancing device positioned in the housing, and a selection device controllable by a controller; the method comprising: controlling the first advancing device to advance a first strip of pouches along a first intake path within the housing, the first intake path starting from the first intake opening and leading to the selection device within the housing; automatically controlling the selection device to move the first strip of pouches along the first intake path into an outtake path, the outtake path starting from the selection device and leading to the outtake opening; while a portion of the first strip of pouches is in the outtake path, controlling the second advancing device to advance a second strip of pouches along a second intake path within the housing, the second intake path starting from the second intake opening and leading to the selection device within the housing; detecting that the first strip of pouches is no longer in the first intake path, then automatically controlling the selectiondevice to move the second strip of pouches along the second intake path into the outtake path.

[0061] In some embodiments, the method further comprises: while a portion of the second strip of pouches is in the outtake path, controlling the first advancing device to advance a third strip of pouches along the first intake path.

[0062] In some embodiments, the method further comprises: detecting the second strip of pouches is no longer in the second intake path, then automatically controlling the selection device to advance the third strip of pouches along the first path into the outtake path.

[0063] In some embodiments, while the portion of the first strip of pouches is in the outtake path, and before the controlling the second advancing device to advance the second strip of pouches along the second intake path within the housing, the method further comprising: generating an alert to insert the second strip of pouches into the second intake opening.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0064] For a better understanding of the described embodiments and to show more clearly how they may be carried into effect, reference will now be made, by way of example, to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0065] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a dispensing assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the teachings described herein;

[0066] Figure 2 is a perspective view of internal mechanisms of a dispensing assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the teachings described herein;

[0067] Figure 3 is a perspective view of the internal mechanisms of Figure 2, with a portion of a cover assembly removed;

[0068] Figure 4 is a cross-section view of the internal mechanisms of a dispensing assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the teachings described herein;

[0069] Figure 5A is a side view of an exemplary strip of pouches that can be usable with the dispensers described herein;

[0070] Figure 5B is a plan view of the strip of pouches of Figure 5A;

[0071] Figure 6A is a cross-section view of the internal mechanisms of Figure 4, with a leading end of a first strip of pouches being inserted into a first intake slot;

[0072] Figure 6B is a cross-section view of the internal mechanisms of Figure 4, with the leading end of the first strip of pouches advanced along a first intake path towards a selection mechanism;

[0073] Figure 6C is a cross-section view of the internal mechanisms of Figure 4, with the leading end of the first strip of pouches advanced along an outtake path into a separation assembly;

[0074] Figure 6D is a cross-section view of the internal mechanisms of Figure 4, after a number of pouches have been separated from the first strip of pouches;

[0075] Figure 6E is a cross-section view of the internal mechanisms of Figure 4, with the leading end of a second strip of pouches having been inserted through a second intake slot and advanced along a second intake path towards the selection mechanism, while the first strip of pouches is still present in the first intake path;

[0076] Figure 6F is a cross-section view of the internal mechanisms of Figure 4, with the leading end of a second strip of pouches in the second intake path, while the first strip of pouches is no longer present in the first intake path;

[0077] Figure 7A is a cross-section view of the internal mechanisms of Figure 4, with a leading end of a first strip of pouches being inserted into a second intake slot;

[0078] Figure 7B is a cross-section view of the internal mechanisms of Figure 4, with the leading end of the first strip of pouches advanced along a second intake path towards a selection mechanism;

[0079] Figure 7C is a cross-section view of the internal mechanisms of Figure 4, with the leading end of the first strip of pouches advanced along an outtake path into a separation assembly;

[0080] Figure 7D is a cross-section view of the internal mechanisms of Figure 4, after a number of pouches have been separated from the first strip of pouches;

[0081] Figure 7E is a cross-section view of the internal mechanisms of Figure 4, with the leading end of a second strip of pouches having been inserted through a firstintake slot and advanced along a first intake path towards the selection mechanism, while the first strip of pouches is still present in the second intake path;

[0082] Figure 7F is a cross-section view of the internal mechanisms of Figure 4, with the leading end of a second strip of pouches in the first intake path, while the first strip of pouches is no longer present in the second intake path;

[0083] Figure 8 is a flow diagram for an example method for dispensing pouches from a strip of pouches using a dispensing assembly;

[0084] Figure 9 is a flow diagram for another example method for dispensing pouches from a strip of pouches using a dispensing assembly;

[0085] Figure 10 is a perspective view of a dispensing assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the teachings described herein, with a cover removed and an intake flap in a raised position;

[0086] Figure 11 is a perspective view of the dispensing assembly of Figure 10, with the intake flap in a lowered position;

[0087] Figure 12 is a perspective view of an intake flap assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the teachings described herein;

[0088] Figure 13A is a side view of the intake flap assembly of Figure 12, with the flap in a lowered position;

[0089] Figure 13B is a side view of the intake flap assembly of Figure 12, with the flap in a raised position;

[0090] Figure 14A is a schematic perspective view of an intake brush in accordance with an embodiment of the teachings described herein; and

[0091] Figure 14B is a schematic diagram of a method of forming the intake brush of Figure 14A.

[0092] The drawings included herewith are for illustrating various examples of apparatus and methods of the teaching of the present specification and are not intended to limit the scope of what is taught in any way.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0093] Various apparatuses and methods are described below to provide example embodiments and implementations of the technology. The technology includes apparatuses and methods that facilitate the dispensation of individual pouches from a strip of pouches.

[0094] It will be appreciated that for simplicity and clarity of illustration, where considered appropriate, reference numerals may be repeated among the figures to indicate corresponding or analogous elements. In addition, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the example embodiments described herein. However, it will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that the example embodiments described herein may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures, and components have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the example embodiments described herein. Also, the description is not to be considered as limiting the scope of the example embodiments described herein.

[0095] While the apparatus and methods disclosed herein are described specifically in relation to the dispensation of medication, such as pills, tablets, gel caps, and the like, it will be appreciated that the technology may alternatively be used during the dispensation of other items.

[0096] Figures 1 to 4 illustrate an example of a dispensing apparatus (which may also be characterized as a dispenser apparatus or simply as a dispenser), referred to generally as 100. With reference to Figure 1 , dispensing apparatus 100 includes a display 101 that can be used for displaying information about the operation of dispensing apparatus 100, the current dosing schedule, and / or other information that may be relevant and / or of interest to a user, or other suitable purposes. In the illustrated embodiment, display 101 is a touch-screen display configured to accept input from a user of dispensing apparatus 100, but need not be a touch screen other examples in which case alternative user input mechanisms (such as buttons, etc.) could be provided.

[0097] Dispensing apparatus 100 also includes a controller for obtaining data from and / or directing the operation of one or more electronic and / or mechatronic components of the dispensing apparatus. Such a controller is operatively coupled tosensors and / or other input devices of the dispensing apparatus for receiving and / or requesting data, and operatively coupled to motors and / or other actuators of the dispensing apparatus for directing the motion and / or position of components of the dispensing apparatus. The controller also includes (or is operatively coupled to) a transceiver (configured for wired and / or wireless communication) for communicating with one or more remote computing devices (e.g. via the Internet). It will be appreciated that any suitable controller known in the art could be used, such as a computing device with one or more processors and a memory for storing and / or executing program instructions, data, and the like. The controller may optionally comprise one or more programmable logic controllers (PLC), or the like. In the illustrated example, a controller 111 is provided as part of a module that includes the display 101. It will be appreciated that controller 111 may alternatively be provided in any suitable location within dispensing apparatus 100.

[0098] Figure 1 also illustrates one example of a dispensing area 102, into which pouches of medication are dispensed by dispensing apparatus 100. This area is sized to receive the expected pouches (as described herein) and to permit a user to grasp and retrieve a given pouch that has been dispensed.

[0099] Figure 1 also illustrates one example of a cover assembly 105 that, when closed, inhibits or prevents access to a loading area 107 of dispensing apparatus 100. Cover assembly 105 can be configured to be movable from a closed position in which access to the loading area is inhibited or prevented (as shown in Figure 1) to an open position to provide access to the loading area 107. Figures 10 and 11 illustrate an example of a dispensing apparatus 100 with a cover assembly removed. Returning to Figure 1 , to facilitate this operation the cover assembly 105 may be configured to be openable and removable or detachable (i.e. configured to be separated from dispensing apparatus 100 to provide access to the loading area 107), or movable / openable but non-removable such that it can be moved to the open position while remaining connected to the body of the dispensing apparatus (e.g. connected via one or more hinging and / or pivoting and / or sliding mechanisms or the like). Preferably, cover assembly 105 can be selectively locked or otherwise secured in a closed position, so that loading area 107 can only be accessed by authorized personnel. Loading area 107 may alternatively be characterized as a storage cavity.

[0100] With reference to Figures 2 to 4, in the illustrated example dispensing apparatus 100 includes a housing, referred to generally as 110. In this example, housing 110 maintains components of dispensing apparatus 100 in generally fixed or functional relation to each other. For some component assemblies, housing 110 supports non-movable components (e.g. bearings or bushings and the like) that facilitate relative movement of other components (e.g. rotating shafts).

[0101] With reference to Figure 4, dispensing apparatus 100 includes two intakes (also referred to herein as intake openings), a first intake 122A and a second intake 122B, that are provided in a common housing 110 and are generally spaced apart from each other in at least one direction (such as a generally up / down and / or front / back direction relative to the expected configuration of the dispensing apparatus 100) but may be aligned with each other in at least one other direction as described herein (such as in the side / side direction relative to the housing 110). The intakes in this illustrated example are configured for receiving and advancing strips of dosage pouches that are provided in the loading area 107. The size and shape of the opening in the intakes 122A and 122B can be selected to accommodate the size of the dosage pouches that are expected to be used in conjunction with the dispensing apparatus 100 and may be somewhat different in different embodiments of the dispensers described herein. Preferably, each intake leads first to a respective intake path, and then those intake paths may converge and / or merge downstream (in the direction of pouch travel) from the respective inlets 122A and 122B on to a common outtake path. Such a configuration may provide one or more advantages.

[0102] For example, a user (e.g. a patient, case worker, or other person responsible for loading dosage strips into dispensing apparatus 100) may load a second strip of pouches into apparatus 100 while apparatus 100 is in the process of dispensing pouches from a first strip of pouches that was loaded earlier. This ability to load a subsequent strip of pouches into apparatus 100 while another strip of pouches is being processed may increase the duration of a ‘reload window’, i.e., a period of time (measured in hours / days or number of pouches) where a current strip of pouches still has some pouches remaining but is expected to run out soon, for inserting or loading a new strip of pouches.

[0103] Also, in the illustrated example, the two intakes 122A and 122B for receiving and advancing strips of dosage pouches are accessible from a common loading area 107. Such a configuration may provide one or more advantages.

[0104] For example, once there are only pre-determined, limited number of pouches remaining to be processed from a first strip of pouches that was positioned in and remains at least partially contained within the loading area 107, a second strip of pouches may be loaded into apparatus 100 and housed in the same loading area 107. For example, loading area 107 may be sized to accommodate a typical roll of pouches, plus additional room to accommodate a limited number (e.g. 10 or fewer, or 5 or fewer, depending on the size of the particular loaded pouches) of pouches trailing from a previously loaded strip of pouches. This ability to load a subsequent strip of pouches into a common loading area 107 of apparatus 100 may facilitate a reduced overall size of dispensing apparatus 100. For example, the loading area 107 may be intentionally sized so that it is too small to receive two, “full” or complete rolls of pouches in their expected, wound or coiled configurations. This may help reduce the overall size of the loading area 107, as its usable interior space may be less than twice the volume of the expected roll of pouches. However, as noted above, the loading area 107 is preferably configured so that it can accommodate the insertion of one complete or at least substantially complete roll of pouches while still accommodating the residual, un-used portion of a prior roll of pouches that is almost exhausted. Optionally the loading area 107 can be configured such that its useable interior volume is between 110% and 195% of the expected volume of a fresh roll of compatible pouches, and may be greater than 115%, 120%, 125%, 130%, 135%, 140% and less than about 190%, 185%, 180%, 175%, 160%, 155%, 155% and 150% of the expected volume of a fresh roll of compatible pouches. For example, the usable interior volume may be about 125% of the expected volume of a fresh roll of compatible pouches. In some embodiments, such as the embodiment described herein, the interior volume of the loading area 107 can be between about 2 and 2.6 litres, or about 2.4 litres. For comparison, a full pouch roll of 60 pouches may have a diameter of about 175 mm and a width of about 80 mm, or an approximate volume of about 1 .9 litres.

[0105] Also, in the illustrated example, the two intakes for receiving and advancing strips of dosage pouches are longitudinally aligned with each other (e.g. relative to a direction of travel of the pouches through the housing 110, and in a generally left / rightor side / side orientation in the dispenser 100 as illustrated). Such a configuration may provide one or more advantages.

[0106] For example, a limited number of pouches remaining to be processed from a first strip of pouches and a second strip of pouches may be housed in a common loading area 107, the common loading area being sized to accommodate the width of a typical roll of pouches but not necessarily being big enough to accommodate two fresh rolls of pouches. This ability to load a subsequent strip of pouches into a loading area sized to accommodate the width of a typical roll of pouches may facilitate a reduced overall size of dispensing apparatus 100.

[0107] The path along with the strips of pouches can travel through the housing 110 in this example of a dispenser 100 is described with reference to Figure 4. In the illustrated example a first intake path 125A extends from a first intake 122A to a first outtake 124A. Generally, the first intake path extends from region A to region C.

[0108] To advance a strip of pouches along the first intake path 125A, a suitable conveying actuator, such as a first set of rollers 200AI is positioned proximate the first intake 122A. Roller assembly 200AI is configured to engage a leading end of a strip of pouches presented at the first intake 122A and advance the leading end along the first intake path 125A.

[0109] Also, an optional, conveying actuator that includes a second set of rollers 200A2 is positioned downstream from the first set of rollers 200AI and upstream of the first outtake 124A. Roller assembly 200A2 is configured to engage the leading end of a strip of pouches advanced from the first intake 122A by roller assembly 200AI and advance the leading end to the first outtake 124A. At least some of the conveying actuators described herein may be active / driven to help urge the strips of pouches along their respective travel paths, while optionally some of the conveying actuators may be passive (i.e. not separately driven or powered) to help guide the travel of the strips of pouches but need not apply a pulling force. Conveying actuators disclosed herein that are active / driven, such as roller assembly 200AI , are operatively coupled to a controller of dispensing apparatus 100 (e.g. controller 111 ) so that their operation can be controlled by dispensing apparatus 100. For example, controller 111 may be configured to selectively direct the rotation of one or both rollers in roller assembly 200AI , e.g. by activating a motor or other actuator coupled to one or both of the rollers.It will be appreciated that conveying actuators disclosed herein may also be operatively coupled to a controller (e.g. controller 111 ) so that the controller can obtain position and / or orientation data from the conveying actuators.

[0110] A strip detector 1 50AI is provided at first intake 122A. Detector 150AI is configured to provide a signal indicative of the presence of a strip of pouches at the first intake 122A. For example, such a signal may indicate that, for a strip of pouches that has been loaded into intake 122A, that there are more pouches remaining in the strip that have not yet entered intake 122A. Alternatively, such a signal may indicate that a leading end of a strip of pouches is being presented to intake 122A for loading.

[0111] A strip detector 150A2 is also provided at first outtake 124A. Detector 1 50A2 is configured to provide a signal indicative of the presence of a strip of pouches. For example, such a signal may indicate that, for a strip of pouches that has been loaded into (e.g. is currently present within) intake 122A, that there are more pouches remaining in the strip that have not yet entered outtake 124A. Strip detectors disclosed herein, such as strip detectors 150AI , 150A2 are operatively coupled to a controller of dispensing apparatus 100 (e.g. controller 111 ) so that the controller can obtain data from the detectors, e.g. by receiving and / or requesting data from the detectors.

[0112] Similar to the first intake path 125A, a second intake path 125B extends from a second intake 122B to a second outtake 124B. Generally, the second intake path extends from region B to region C.

[0113] To advance a strip of pouches along the second intake path 125B, another suitable conveying actuator, such as a first set of rollers 200BI is positioned proximate the second intake 122B. Roller assembly 200BI is configured to engage a leading end of a strip of pouches presented at the second intake 122B and advance the leading end along the second intake path 125B. The hardware, including the actuators, rollers, etc. along the first and second intake paths may be generally similar or the same (as illustrated) or alternatively the first and second intake paths may include differently configured hardware that is operable to provide the functions described herein.

[0114] Also, in this example, a second set of rollers 200B2 is positioned upstream of the second outtake 124B. Roller assembly 200B2 is configured to engage the leading end of a strip of pouches advanced from the second intake 122B by roller assembly 200BI and advance the leading end to the second outtake 124B.

[0115] A strip detector 150BI is provided at second intake 122B. Detector 150BI is configured to provide a signal indicative of the presence of a strip of pouches at the second intake 122B. For example, such a signal may indicate that, for a strip of pouches that has been loaded into intake 122B, that there are more pouches remaining in the strip that have not yet entered intake 122B. Alternatively, such a signal may indicate that a leading end of a strip of pouches is being presented to intake 122B for loading. While each intake path is described as having separate, dedicated strip detectors it is possible in some arrangements that a common strip detector could be used to detect the present or absence of a strip of pouches in both intake paths.

[0116] A strip detector 150B2 is also provided at second outtake 124B. Detector 150B2 is configured to provide a signal indicative of the presence of a strip of pouches. For example, such a signal may indicate that, for a strip of pouches that has been loaded into intake 122B, that there are more pouches remaining in the strip that have not yet entered outtake 124B. The strip detectors described herein can include any suitable hardware and associated controllers, such as optical sensors, distances sensors, ultrasonic sensors, limit switches, mechanical sensors and the like that can be coupled to any suitable controller such as a computer, PLC, microprocessor or the like.

[0117] With continued reference to Figure 4, dispensing apparatus 100 includes a common outtake path, along which individual dosage pouches are separated from a strip of pouches and dispensed. The intake of the common outtake path is in communication with the outtake paths of each of the two intake paths. That is, the first and second intake paths are generally separate from each other upstream and then converge / merge into a common outtake path at a location that is between the inlets and the separation apparatus, as describe herein. This arrangement may have one or more advantages, and may allow a common separation apparatus to be used regardless of which intake a given strip of pouches has been fed through.

[0118] With reference to Figure 4, in the illustrated example an outtake path 135 extends from an intake 132 to an outtake 134. Outtake 134 can be characterized as being, or being in in communication with, dispensing area 102. Generally, the outtake path extends from region C to region D.

[0119] Notably, the outtake 124A of the fist intake path 125A and the outtake 124B of the second intake path 125B are both in communication with intake 132 of outtake path 135. As a result, a strip of pouches may pass through dispensing apparatus 100 along a path from region A to region C to region D (i.e. from intake 122A to dispensing area 102), or alternatively a strip of pouches may pass through dispensing apparatus 100 along a path from region B to region C to region D (i.e. from intake 122B to dispensing area 102).

[0120] To advance a strip of pouches along the outtake path 135, a first set of rollers 200ci is positioned proximate the intake 132. Roller assembly 200ci is configured to engage a leading end of a strip of pouches presented at the intake 132 and advance the leading end along the outtake path 135.

[0121] Preferably, a selection mechanism is provided proximate the intake 132 of the outtake path 135 to selectively direct the leading end of a strip of pouches that has been advanced along either of the first intake path 125A and the second intake path 125B towards the first conveying actuator in the outtake path 135. In the illustrated example, a directing roller 142 is positioned proximate and upstream of roller assembly 200ci. In use, directing roller 142 is configured to direct a leading end of a strip of pouches from either outtake 124A or outtake 124B towards roller assembly 200ci. More specifically, directing roller 142 is configured to prevent the leading end of a strip of pouches exiting one of outtake 124A or outtake 124B to enter the other of outtake 124A or outtake 124B instead of towards roller assembly 200ci.

[0122] In the illustrated example, the directing roller 142 is coupled to a selection motor (not shown) and controllable by a controller of the dispensing apparatus 100 (e.g. controller 111) to selectively rotate the selection roller in different directions at different times. For example, with reference to Figure 4, when directing roller 142 is rotated in a counterclockwise direction, a leading end of a strip of pouches exiting outtake 124A may be urged towards roller assembly 200ci, and when directing roller 142 is rotated in a clockwise direction, a leading end of a strip of pouches exiting outtake 124B may be urged towards roller assembly 200ci.

[0123] Preferably, directing roller 142 is a ‘floating’ roller whose axis of rotation is not fixed relative to housing 110. As a result, roller 142 can move up and down freely. This may help the roller 142 to accommodate different portions of the strip of pouchesthat have different thickness and / or to help accommodate pouches that contain different numbers and / or types of pills (as may be expected for different users) and therefore that have different thicknesses / volumes. Also, in the event of a feed / advancement error, the free-floating nature of roller 142 may reduce drag on a strip, allowing a trouble-shooter to remove the strip more easily.

[0124] In this example an optional, second set of rollers 200c2 is positioned downstream of the roller assembly 200ci. Roller assembly 200c2 is configured to engage the leading end of a strip of pouches advanced from the intake 132 by roller assembly 200ci and advance the leading end through a separation mechanism 300 (which may alternatively be characterized as a separation assembly).

[0125] In this example an optional, third set of rollers 200c3 is positioned downstream of the separation mechanism 300. Roller assembly 200c3 is configured to engage the leading end of a strip of pouches advanced through the separation mechanism 300 and advance pouches separated from the strip of pouches to the outtake 134 of the outtake path (e.g. to dispensing area 102).

[0126] A strip detector 150ci is provided at intake 132. Detector 150ci is configured to provide a signal indicative of the presence of a strip of pouches at the intake 132. For example, such a signal may indicate that, for a strip of pouches that has been loaded into intake 122A or intake 122B, that there are more pouches remaining in the strip that have not yet entered outtake path 132. Alternatively, such a signal may indicate that a leading end of a strip of pouches is being presented to roller assembly 200C2 for loading into separation mechanism 300. A strip detector 150c2 is also provided at outtake 134. Detector 150c2 is configured to provide a signal indicative of the presence of a strip of pouches.

[0127] In the illustrated embodiment, roller assemblies 200 each include a pair of contra-rotating rollers with resilient outer surfaces configured to allow pouches with medication dosage(s) to pass through a strip passage, and with external projections configured to urge a leading edge of a strip of pouches towards the strip passage. It will be appreciated that other types of advancement mechanisms may be used in alternative embodiments, and that assemblies 200AI , 200A2, 200BI , 200B2, 200CI , 200C2, and / or 200c3 may be different from each other.

[0128] In the illustrated example, detectors 150AI, 150A2, 150BI, 150B2, 150CI, and 150c2 each comprise an optical detector. It will be appreciated that other types of detectors may be used in alternative embodiments, and that detectors 150AI, 150 2, 150BI, 150B2, 150CI, and / or 150c2 may not be the same type of detector.

[0129] Dispensing apparatus 100 may also include a dosage detection mechanism to determine the patient ID and / or a dosing schedule for the medication(s) in a strip of pouches. In the illustrated example, a dosage detection mechanism is provided for each intake path 125 , 125B. Such an arrangement may provide one or more advantages.

[0130] For example, a dosage detection mechanism may be able to obtain and / or verify the dosing schedule for a strip of pouches being loaded into either the first intake 122 or the second intake 122B while another strip of pouches is being advanced through the other intake path.

[0131] In the illustrated example, an optical sensor 160 is directed towards intake path 125 between roller assemblies 200 I and 200 2. An illumination source 161 is provided on the same side of the intake path 125 as optical sensor 160 to provide top lighting of a strip of pouches. Also, an illumination source 162 is provided on the opposite side of the intake path 125 to provide backlighting of a strip of pouches advancing along intake path 125 . It will be appreciated that zero, one, or two or more illumination sources may be provided on the same side and / or on the opposite of the intake path 125 to provide a desired level of illumination.

[0132] Optical sensor 160 is configured to detect indicia (e.g. a barcode, QR code, text, other symbols) printed on a strip of pouches to determine at least one of: an identification of a patient to whom the medication(s) in the strip of pouches is prescribed; and a dosing schedule associated with the strip of pouches. In some embodiments, determining a patient ID and / or a dosing schedule may comprise communicating with a remote computing device (e.g. via the Internet). For example, a controller of dispensing apparatus 100 (e.g. controller 111 ) may be configured to send a request to a remote computing device (e.g. via a wireless transceiver) for e.g. an identification of a patient associated with the strip of pouches, a dosing schedule associated with the strip of pouches, a new or updated dosing schedule associatedwith the strip of pouches, or the like. Such a request may include information from the detected indicia.

[0133] Similarly, an optical sensor 160B is directed towards intake path 125B between roller assemblies 200BI and 200B2. An illumination source 161 B is provided on the same side of the intake path 125B as optical sensor 160B to provide top lighting of a strip of pouches. Also, an illumination source 162B is provided on the opposite side of the intake path 125B to provide backlighting of a strip of pouches advancing along intake path 125B. It will be appreciated that zero, one, or two or more illumination sources may be provided on the same side and / or on the opposite of the intake path 125B to provide a desired level of illumination. Like sensor 160A, optical sensor 160B is configured to detect indicia (e.g. a barcode, QR code, text, other symbols) printed on a strip of pouches. Optical sensors disclosed herein, such as optical sensors 160A, 160B are operatively coupled to a controller of dispensing apparatus 100 (e.g. controller 111 ) so that the controller can obtain data from the sensors, e.g. by receiving and / or requesting data from the sensors.

[0134] In some embodiments, if the patient ID determined for an inserted strip of pouches matches the patient that dispensing apparatus 100 is assigned to, the controller of dispensing apparatus (e.g. controller 111) may be configured to continue feeding the strip to a standby position (e.g. with the leading end of the inserted strip proximate intake 132 and / or directing roller 142).

[0135] Additionally, or alternatively, in the event of a determined patient ID mismatch, or in the event of a failure to determine a patient ID and / or a dosing schedule (e.g. due to an error reading indicia using sensor 160, or an error in communicating with a remote computing device), the controller of dispensing apparatus (e.g. controller 111) of dispensing apparatus 100 may be configured to reverse roller assemblies 200A and / or 200B to eject the leading end of the strip back out of intake 122A or intake 122B.

[0136] Figures 5A and 5B illustrate an example of a strip of dosage pouches, referred to generally as 10. Multi-dose packaging medication strips, such as strips 10, are typically produced by pharmacies according to a patients' prescription. Such strips 10 are also typically labelled with printed identification markers related to the patient and / or the dosing schedule.

[0137] In the illustrated example, the strip consists of three pouches 20. In this example, the strip has leading end 11 , intended to be inserted first into the dispensing assembly, and a trailing end 12. Each pouch 20 is separated from each other by a sealed, and typically heat-sealed region 15, which may optionally contain a perforation 16 across at least a portion, and preferably substantially all of the heat-sealed region 15. Each pouch 20 contains medication dosage(s) illustrated schematically as pill 19 intended to be taken concurrently by a patient at a scheduled time.

[0138] Referring to Figure 5B, the strip 10 has a first side edge 13 and a second side edge 14. In the illustrated example, side edge 14 has a heat-sealed region extending along substantially all of strip 10. In one or more alternative examples, side edge 13 may also have a heat-sealed region extending along substantially all of strip 10.

[0139] With reference to Figures 6A to 6E, a method for using the two intakes of dispensing apparatus 100 receiving and advancing strips of dosage pouches will be discussed. It will be appreciated that a controller of dispensing apparatus 100 (e.g. controller 111) may be configured to direct the operation of one or more components of dispensing apparatus 100 to effect the method, either automatically or in response to external input, received e.g. via touch screen display 101 , or a remote computing device.

[0140] As shown in Figure 6A, dispensing apparatus 100 may have no strips of pouches being processed. At this time, an initial strip of pouches 10A may be loaded into dispensing apparatus 100. More specifically, a leading end 11 A of strip of pouches 10A may be inserted into intake 122A. The bulk of strip of pouches 10A (typically provided as a roll or a zigzag folded bundle) may be positioned in loading area 107.

[0141] The leading end 11 A of strip of pouches 10A may be advanced along intake path 125A until it reaches outtake 124A (e.g. Figure 6B). For example, the presence of leading end 1 1A at outtake 124A may be determined using sensor 150A2.

[0142] The leading end 11 A of strip of pouches 10A may then be advanced along outtake path 135 until it reaches outtake 134 (e.g. Figure 6C). For example, the presence of leading end 11A at outtake 135 may be determined using sensor 150c2.

[0143] Turning to Figure 6D, after dispending pouches from a strip of pouches, the remaining pouches of the strip 10A may only take up a small portion of loading area 107.

[0144] At this point, as shown in Figure 6E, a subsequent strip of pouches 10B may be loaded into dispensing apparatus 100. More specifically, a leading end 1 1 B of strip of pouches 10B may be inserted into intake 122B. Notably, at this time a portion of the initial strip of pouches 10A is still being advanced along into intake path 125A. Also notably, the bulk of strip of pouches 10B may be positioned in loading area 107 alongside any remaining pouches of the strip 10A.

[0145] The leading end 1 1 B of subsequent strip of pouches 10B may remain at outtake 124B until the tail end of the initial strip of pouches 10A has been advanced through intake path 125A. At this point, as shown in Figure 6F, the leading end 1 1 B of strip of pouches 10B may be advanced into intake 132 of the outlet path to follow strip of pouches 10A through the outtake path. Alternatively, leading end 11 B of subsequent strip of pouches 10B may remain at outtake 124B until the last pouch of the initial strip of pouches 10A has been dispensed (e.g. cleared detector 150c2) before being advanced into intake 132 of the outlet path.

[0146] With reference to Figures 7A to 7E, another method for using the two intakes of dispensing apparatus 100 receiving and advancing strips of dosage pouches will be discussed. Again, it will be appreciated that a controller of dispensing apparatus 100 (e.g. controller 111) may be configured to direct the operation of one or more components of dispensing apparatus 100 to effect the method.

[0147] As shown in Figure 7A, dispensing apparatus 100 may have no strips of pouches being processed. At this time, an initial strip of pouches 10A may be loaded into dispensing apparatus 100. More specifically, a leading end 11 A of strip of pouches 10A may be inserted into intake 122B. The bulk of strip of pouches 10A (typically provided as a roll) may be positioned in loading area 107.

[0148] The leading end 11 A of strip of pouches 10A may be advanced along intake path 125B until it reaches outtake 124B (e.g. Figure 7B). For example, the presence of leading end 1 1A at outtake 124B may be determined using sensor 150B2.

[0149] The leading end 11 A of strip of pouches 10A may then be advanced along outtake path 135 until it reaches outtake 134 (e.g. Figure 7C). For example, the presence of leading end 11A at outtake 135 may be determined using sensor 150c2.

[0150] T urning to Figure 7D, after dispending pouches from a strip of pouches, the remaining pouches of the strip 10A may only take up a small portion of loading area 107.

[0151] At this point, as shown in Figure 7E, a subsequent strip of pouches 10B may be loaded into dispensing apparatus 100. More specifically, a leading end 1 1 B of strip of pouches 10B may be inserted into intake 122A. Notably, at this time a portion of the initial strip of pouches 10A is still being advanced along into intake path 125B. Also notably, the bulk of strip of pouches 10B may be positioned in loading area 107 alongside any remaining pouches of the strip 10A.

[0152] The leading end 1 1 B of subsequent strip of pouches 10B may remain at outtake 124A until the tail end of the initial strip of pouches 10A has been advanced through intake path 125B. At this point, as shown in Figure 7F, the leading end 1 1 B of strip of pouches 10B may be advanced into intake 132 of the outlet path. Alternatively, leading end 11 B of subsequent strip of pouches 10B may remain at outtake 124A until the last pouch of the initial strip of pouches 10A has been dispensed (e.g. cleared detector 150c2) before being advanced into intake 132 of the outlet path.

[0153] As discussed herein, a controller of dispensing apparatus 100 (e.g. controller 111 ) can be configured to direct the operation of one or more electronic and / or mechatronic components of the dispensing apparatus. For example, controller 111 is operatively coupled to sensors and / or other input devices of the dispensing apparatus for receiving and / or requesting data, and operatively coupled to motors and / or other actuators of the dispensing apparatus for directing the motion and / or position of components of the dispensing apparatus.

[0154] For example, controller 111 may be configured to monitor strip detector 150AI for a signal indicative of the presence of a strip of pouches at the first intake 122A. In response to detecting the presence of a leading end of a first strip of pouches at the first intake opening, controller 111 may be configured to automatically activate roller assembly 200AI to advance the strip of pouches along the first intake path. Controller 111 may also be configured to use a signal from strip detector 150A2 todetect the presence of the leading end of the strip of pouches at first outtake 124A (i.e. the outtake of the first intake path) and automatically deactivate roller assembly 200AI to cease the advancement of the strip of pouches. Controller 111 may also be configured to use a signal from strip detector 150ci to determine if another strip of pouches is present in the common outtake path 135 and, after determining that the common outtake path is clear of another strip of pouches, automatically activate roller assembly 200ci (and optionally roller assembly 200AI and / or roller assembly 200A2) to advance the strip of pouches along the common outtake path 135.

[0155] As another example, controller 111 may be configured to monitor strip detector 150BI for a signal indicative of the presence of a strip of pouches at the second intake 122B. In response to detecting the presence of a leading end of a strip of pouches at the second intake opening, controller 111 may be configured to automatically activate roller assembly 200BI to advance the strip of pouches along the second intake path. Controller 111 may also be configured to use a signal from strip detector 1 50B2 to detect the presence of the leading end of the strip of pouches at second outtake 124B (i.e. the outtake of the second intake path) and automatically deactivate roller assembly 200BI to cease the advancement of the strip of pouches. Controller 111 may also be configured to use a signal from strip detector 150ci to determine if another strip of pouches is present in the common outtake path 135 and, after determining that the common outtake path is clear of another strip of pouches, automatically activate roller assembly 200ci (and optionally roller assembly 200BI and / or roller assembly 200B2) to advance the strip of pouches along the common outtake path 135.

[0156] Referring to Figure 8, there is illustrated a method 800 for advancing a strip of pouches through a dispensing apparatus.

[0157] Method 800 may be performed using dispensing apparatus 100, as disclosed herein, or other suitable embodiments of a dispensing apparatus. One or more steps may be performed by dispensing apparatus 100 (e.g. directed by controller 111), either automatically or in response to external input.

[0158] At 810, an end of a strip is detected at a first intake. For example, a leading end 11 A of strip of pouches 1 0A may be inserted into intake 122A and the presence of leading end 1 1 A at intake 122A may be determined using sensor 150AI . The bulk ofstrip of pouches 10A (typically provided as a roll) may be positioned in loading area 107. (See e.g. Figure 6A).

[0159] At 820, an advancing assembly associated with the first intake may be activated to advance the strip along a first intake path. For example, roller assemblies 200AI and 200A2 may be activated to advance the leading end 11A of strip of pouches 10A along intake path 125A until it reaches outtake 124A (e.g. Figure 6B).

[0160] At 830, the end of the strip is detected at a first outtake. For example, the presence of leading end 1 1 A at outtake 124A may be determined using sensor 150A2. (e.g. Figure 6B).

[0161] Optionally, at 832, a patient ID and / or a dosing schedule for the medication(s) in the strip of pouches may be determined. For example, optical sensor 160A may be used to detect indicia printed on the strip of pouches to determine at least one of: an identification of a patient to whom the medication(s) in the strip of pouches is prescribed; and a dosing schedule associated with the strip of pouches.

[0162] Optionally, at 834, one or both of the determined patient ID and / or dosing schedule are compared against expected values. For example, the patent ID associated with the strip of pouches may be compared with a patent ID associated with dispensing apparatus 100.

[0163] If, at 834, a mismatch is determined, at 836 the strip of pouches may be ejected (e.g. if the patient IDs do not match) ora new or updated dosing schedule may be obtained (if the dispensing schedules do not match).

[0164] At 840, the presence of another strip of pouches in an outtake path may be determined. For example, the presence of a prior strip of pouches may be determined using sensor 150ci and / or sensor 150c2.

[0165] At 850, following a determination that the outtake path is clear, the leading end 11A of strip of pouches 10A may then be advanced along outtake path 135 until it reaches outtake 134 (e.g. Figure 6C). For example, the presence of leading end 1 1 A at outtake 135 may be determined using sensor 150c2.

[0166] At 860, following a determination that the outtake path is not clear, the strip may be held until the outtake path clears. For example, as shown in Figures 6E, theleading end 1 1 B of subsequent strip of pouches 10B may remain at outtake 124B until the tail end of the initial strip of pouches 10A has been advanced through intake path 125A. Alternatively, leading end 1 1 B of subsequent strip of pouches 10B may remain at outtake 124A until the last pouch of the initial strip of pouches 10A has been dispensed (e.g. cleared detector 150c2) before being advanced into intake 132 of the outlet path.

[0167] At 870, following a determination that the outtake path is now clear, an advancing assembly associated with the outtake path may be activated to advance the strip along the outtake path. For example, roller assemblies 200ci, 200c2, and / or 200C3 may be activated to advance the leading end 11 A of strip of pouches 10A along outtake path 135 until it reaches outtake 134.

[0168] Referring to Figure 9, there is illustrated a method 900 for advancing a strip of pouches through a dispensing apparatus.

[0169] Method 900 may be performed using dispensing apparatus 100, as disclosed herein, or other suitable embodiments of a dispensing apparatus. One or more steps may be performed by dispensing apparatus 100 (e.g. directed by controller 111), either automatically or in response to external input.

[0170] At 910, an end of a strip is detected at a second intake. For example, a leading end 1 1A of strip of pouches 10A may be inserted into intake 122B and the presence of leading end 1 1 A at intake 122B may be determined using sensor 150BI. The bulk of strip of pouches 10A (typically provided as a roll) may be positioned in loading area 107. (See e.g. Figure 7A).

[0171] At 920, an advancing assembly associated with the second intake may be activated to advance the strip along a second intake path. For example, roller assemblies 200BI and 200B2 may be activated to advance the leading end 11 A of strip of pouches 10A along intake path 125B until it reaches outtake 124B (e.g. Figure 7B).

[0172] At 930, the end of the strip is detected at a second outtake. For example, the presence of leading end 1 1 A at outtake 124B may be determined using sensor 150B2. (e.g. Figure 7B).

[0173] Optionally, at 932, a patient ID and / or a dosing schedule for the medication(s) in the strip of pouches may be determined. For example, a suitablesensor, such as an optical sensor 160B may be used to detect indicia printed on the strip of pouches to determine at least one of: an identification of a patient to whom the medication(s) in the strip of pouches is prescribed; and a dosing schedule associated with the strip of pouches.

[0174] Optionally, at 934, one or both of the determined patient ID and / or dosing schedule are compared against expected values. For example, the patent ID associated with the strip of pouches may be compared with a patent ID associated with dispensing apparatus 100.

[0175] If, at 934, a mismatch is determined, at 936 the strip of pouches may be ejected (e.g. if the patient IDs do not match) ora new or updated dosing schedule may be obtained (if the dispensing schedules do not match).

[0176] At 940, the presence of another strip of pouches in an outtake path may be determined. For example, the presence of a prior strip of pouches may be determined using sensor 150ci and / or sensor 150c2.

[0177] At 950, following a determination that the outtake path is clear, the leading end 11A of strip of pouches 10A may then be advanced along outtake path 135 until it reaches outtake 134 (e.g. Figure 7C). For example, the presence of leading end 1 1 A at outtake 135 may be determined using sensor 150c2.

[0178] At 960, following a determination that the outtake path is not clear, the strip may be held until the outtake path clears. For example, as shown in Figures 7E, the leading end 1 1 B of subsequent strip of pouches 10B may remain at outtake 124A until the tail end of the initial strip of pouches 10A has been advanced through intake path 125B. Alternatively, leading end 1 1 B of subsequent strip of pouches 10B may remain at outtake 124A until the last pouch of the initial strip of pouches 10A has been dispensed (e.g. cleared detector 150c2) before being advanced into intake 132 of the outlet path.

[0179] At 970, following a determination that the outtake path is now clear, an advancing assembly associated with the outtake path may be activated to advance the strip along the outtake path. For example, roller assemblies 200ci, 200c2, and / or 200C3 may be activated to advance the leading end 11 A of strip of pouches 10A along outtake path 135 until it reaches outtake 134.

[0180] It will be appreciated that other methods of advancing a strip of pouches through a dispensing apparatus may be performed using or by dispensing apparatus 100, as disclosed herein, or other suitable embodiments of a dispensing apparatus.

[0181] For example, where a dispensing apparatus includes a housing, a first intake opening defined in the housing, a second intake opening defined in the housing, an outtake opening defined in the housing, at least one first conveying actuator, at least one second conveying actuator, a third conveying actuator positioned proximate an intake of a common outtake path, and a selection mechanism controllable by a controller, a method of dispensing may comprise: controlling the at least one first conveying actuator to advance a first strip of pouches along a first intake path to the intake of the common outtake path; controlling the selection mechanism to direct a leading end of the first strip of pouches towards the third conveying actuator; controlling the third conveying actuator to advance the first strip of pouches along the common outtake path towards the outtake opening; while at least a portion of the first strip of pouches is in the common outtake path, controlling the at least one second conveying actuator to advance a second strip of pouches along a second intake path to the intake of the common outtake path; and in response to detecting that the first strip of pouches is no longer in the first intake path, controlling the selection mechanism to direct a leading end of the second strip of pouches towards the third conveying actuator.

[0182] Optionally, such a method may further comprise, while at least a portion of the second strip of pouches is in the common outtake path, controlling the at least one first conveying actuator to advance a third strip of pouches along the first intake path.

[0183] Optionally, such a method may further comprise, in response to detecting that the second strip of pouches is no longer in the second intake path, controlling the selection mechanism to direct a leading end of the third strip of pouches towards the third conveying actuator.

[0184] Optionally, such a method may further comprise, in response to determining that the at least a portion of the first strip of pouches is in the common outtake path: before controlling the at least one second conveying actuator to advance the second strip of pouches along the second intake path, generating an alert to insert the second strip of pouches into the second intake opening.

[0185] In order to facilitate the loading of strips of pouches into intakes 122A and 122B, one or more optional intake guiding features may be provided. Such features may assist a user when loading a new strip of pouches. Additionally, or alternatively, such features may physically contact a strip of pouches to promote a preferred orientation of the pouches, and / or inhibit or prevent strip folding or other unfurling issues.

[0186] With reference to Figures 10 and 11 , one example of an intake guiding feature includes lighting elements positioned proximate the intakes 122A and 122B. In the illustrated example, a first set of lights 510A, 511A are positioned proximate intake 122A, and a second set of lights 51 OB, 511 B are positioned proximate intakel 22B. It will be appreciated that a single light may be provided proximate each intake in alternative embodiments.

[0187] In the illustrated example, lights 510A, 510B each have a surface that extends around a corner such that a portion of the surface faced generally upwards and another portion of the surface extends generally sideways. Such a configuration may increase the visibility of lights 510A, 510B.

[0188] Lights 510, 511 may be configured to be selectively illuminated to assist a user’s identification of the intake to be used when loading a strip of pouches. For example, if a strip of pouches is to be loaded into intake 122A, lights 510A, 51 1 A may blink on and off, while lights 510B, 51 1 B are not illuminated. Alternatively, if a strip of pouches is to be loaded into intake 122A, lights 510A, 511 A may be illuminated in green, while lights 510B, 51 1 B may be illuminated in red. It will be appreciated that other suitable lighting schemes may be used to assist a user in identifying the intake 122A to be used.

[0189] With reference to Figures 10 and 11 , another example of an intake guiding feature includes brush strips positioned proximate the intakes 122A and 122B. In the illustrated example, a first brush strip 610A is positioned proximate intake 122A, between intake 122A and loading area 107, and a second brush strip 610B is positioned proximate intakel 22B, between intake 122A and loading area 107. In the illustrated example each brush 610A, 610B has a width that is similar to the width of its respective intake 122A, 122B. It will be appreciated that the width of brush 610A and / or 610B may vary in alternative embodiments.

[0190] With reference to Figures 14A and 14B, in the illustrated example each brush 610 includes bristles 615 formed by folding bristle fibers into a brush holder 617 and retained therein with the assistance of a brush pin 618. Bristles 615 may be formed of nylon bristle fibres, or any other suitable fibre.

[0191] Returning to Figures 10 and 11 , in the illustrated example brush strip 610A is positioned proximate intake 122A and with bristles 615 angled upwards and towards loading area 107. At such an orientation, bristles 615 may resiliently support a strip of pouches as it is advanced into intake 122A. Additionally, at such an orientation the ends of bristles 615 may inhibit or prevent undesired curling or kinking of a strip of pouches. Additionally, where a strip of pouches is provided in a folded configuration (e.g. as contrasted with to a rolled configuration), the ends of bristles 615 may promote unfolding of the strip of pouches, thereby inhibiting or preventing multiple portions of a strip of pouches from entering intake 122A at the same time.

[0192] Similarly, in the illustrated example brush strip 610B is positioned proximate intake 122B and with bristles 615 angled upwards and towards loading area 107. At such an orientation, bristles 615 may: resiliently support a strip of pouches as it is advanced into intake 122B; inhibit or prevent undesired curling or kinking of a strip of pouches; and / or promote unfolding of a strip of pouches, thereby inhibiting or preventing multiple portions of a strip of pouches from entering intake 122B at the same time.

[0193] With reference to Figures 10 and 11 , yet another example of an intake guiding feature includes an intake flap assembly. Such an assembly may be used to inhibit or prevent portions of a strip of pouches being advanced through intake 122B from entering intake 122A. Additionally, or alternatively, such an assembly may assist a user in loading a new strip of pouches into intake 122A while a prior strip of pouches is being advanced through intake 122B.

[0194] With reference to Figures 10 to 12, in the illustrated example intake flap assembly 700 includes a flap body 710 that is pivotally secured at one end to dispensing apparatus 100 using hinge assemblies 720A, 720B. At the other end, a brush strip 610c is secured with bristles 615 angled generally upwards and away from hinge assemblies 720A, 720B.

[0195] Flap body 710 may be made from any suitable material. Preferably, flap body 710 is transparent or translucent.

[0196] With reference to Figures 13A and 13B, in the illustrated example hinge assembly 720A includes a detent mechanism for restraining flap body 710 in at least a raised position (e.g. as illustrated in Figures 13B and 10). Specifically, in the illustrated example a recess 722 coupled to hinge assembly 720A is configured to engage protrusion 724 coupled to flap body 710. When engaged, flap body 710 is inhibited from pivoting. Upon application of sufficient force to flap body 710, protrusion 724 disengages from recess 722, thereby allowing flap body 710 to pivot. It will be appreciated that other detent mechanisms, or other mechanisms suitable to inhibit pivoting of flap body 710 may be used in alternative embodiments.

[0197] With reference to Figure 10, positioning flap body 710 in a raised position facilitates access to intake 122A. Also, in the illustrated raised position a trailing portion of a strip of pouches being advanced through intake 122B may be held clear of intake 122A by flap body 710 and / or brush strip 610c. This may facilitate the loading of a strip of pouches into intake 122A while another strip of pouches is loaded via intake 122B. For example, with reference to Figures 7C and 7E, loading a strip of pouches 10B into intake 122A (e.g. as illustrated in Figure 7E) before all of a strip of pouches 10A has entered intake 122B (e.g. as illustrated in Figure 7C) may be facilitated by intake flap assembly 700.

[0198] With reference to Figure 11 , positioning flap body 710 in a lowered position facilitates access to intake 122B. Also, in the illustrated lowered position a trailing portion of a strip of pouches being advanced through intake 122A may be inhibited or prevented from being drawn into intake 122B by flap body 710 and / or brush strip 610c. This may facilitate the loading of a strip of pouches into intake 122B while another strip of pouches is loaded via intake 122A. For example, with reference to Figures 6C and 6E, loading a strip of pouches 10B into intake 122B (e.g. as illustrated in Figure 6E) before all of a strip of pouches 10A has entered intake 122A (e.g. as illustrated in Figure 6C) may be facilitated by intake flap assembly 700.

[0199] As used herein, the wording “and / or” is intended to represent an inclusive - or. That is, “X and / or Y” is intended to mean X or Y or both, for example. As a further example, “X, Y, and / or Z” is intended to mean X orY or Z or any combination thereof.

[0200] While the above description describes features of example embodiments, it will be appreciated that some features and / or functions of the described embodiments are susceptible to modification without departing from the spirit and principles of operation of the described embodiments. For example, the various characteristics which are described by means of the represented embodiments or examples may be selectively combined with each other. Accordingly, what has been described above is intended to be illustrative of the claimed concept and non-limiting. It will be understood by persons skilled in the art that other variants and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the claims appended hereto. The scope of the claims should not be limited by the preferred embodiments and examples, but should be given the broadest interpretation consistent with the description as a whole.

Claims

CLAIMS1 . A dispensing apparatus comprising: a housing; a first intake opening defined in the housing; a first intake path extending from the first intake opening to an intake of a common outtake path; at least one first conveying actuator configured to advance a strip of pouches received at the first intake opening along the first intake path, a first one of the at least one first conveying actuator being positioned proximate the first intake opening and configured to engage a leading end of a strip of pouches presented at the first intake opening; a second intake opening defined in the housing; a second intake path extending from the second intake opening to the intake of the common outtake path; at least one second conveying actuator configured to advance a strip of pouches received at the second intake opening along the second intake path, one of the at least one second conveying actuator being positioned proximate the second intake opening and configured to engage a leading end of a strip of pouches presented at the second intake opening; a third conveying actuator positioned proximate the intake of the common outtake path; and a selection mechanism positioned proximate and upstream of the third conveying actuator and configured to selectively direct the leading end of the strip of pouches that has been advanced along either of the first intake path the second intake path towards the third conveying actuator; the third conveying actuator being configured to engage the leading end of the strip of pouches that has been directed by the directing roller and advance the strip of pouches along the common outtake path towards an outtake opening defined in the housing.

2. The dispensing apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising: a separation mechanism positioned within the common outtake path and configured to separate pouches from the strip of pouches; anda fourth conveying actuator positioned proximate the outtake opening and configured to advance pouches separated from the strip of pouches within the common outtake path to the outtake opening.

3. The dispensing apparatus of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the first intake opening, the second intake opening, and the outtake opening are longitudinally aligned.

4. The dispensing apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising a loading area in communication with the first intake opening and the second intake opening, the loading area being configured to receive therein a second strip of pouches while a first strip of pouches is being dispensed by the dispensing apparatus.

5. The dispensing apparatus of claim 4, wherein the loading area has a usable interior volume that is between about 110% and 195% of an expected volume of a full roll of compatible pouches.

6. The dispensing apparatus of claim 5, wherein the usable interior volume of the loading area is about 125% of the expected volume of a full roll of compatible pouches.

7. The dispensing apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the selection mechanism comprises a directing roller, and wherein when the directing roller is rotated in a first direction, a leading end of a strip of pouches that has been advanced along the first intake path may be urged towards the third conveying actuator, and when the directing roller is rotated in a second direction, a leading end of a strip of pouches that has been advanced along the second intake path may be urged towards the third conveying actuator.

8. The dispensing apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the at least one first conveying actuator comprises two first conveying actuators, a second one of the at least one first conveying actuator being positioned downstream from the first one of the at least one first conveying actuator and upstream of the intake of the common outtake path, the second one of the at least one first conveying actuator being configured to engage a leading end of a strip of pouches advanced by the first one of the at least one first conveying actuator.

9. The dispensing apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the at least one second conveying actuator comprises two second conveying actuators, a second one of the at least one second conveying actuator being positioned downstream from the first one of the at least one second conveying actuator and upstream of the intake of the common outtake path, the second one of the at least one second conveying actuator being configured to engage a leading end of a strip of pouches advanced by the first one of the at least one second conveying actuator.

10. The dispensing apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 9, further comprising: a first intake strip detector positioned adjacent to the first intake opening and configured to detect a presence of a strip of pouches at the first intake opening; and a second intake strip detector positioned adjacent to the second intake opening and configured to detect a presence of a strip of pouches at the second intake opening.11 . The dispensing apparatus of claim 10, further comprising: a first outtake strip detector positioned adjacent to an outtake of the first intake path and configured to detect a presence of a strip of pouches in the first intake path; and a second outtake strip detector positioned adjacent to an outtake of the second intake path and configured to detect a presence of a strip of pouches in the second intake path.

12. The dispensing apparatus any claim 11 , further comprising: an outtake path strip detector positioned downstream of the third conveying actuator configured to detect a presence of a strip of pouches in the common outtake path.

13. The dispensing apparatus of claim 12, further comprising a controller, wherein the controller is configured to: in response to detecting, using the first intake strip detector, the presence of a leading end of a first strip of pouches at the first intake opening, activate the at least one first conveying actuator to advance the first strip of pouches along the first intake path; detect, using the first outtake strip detector, the presence of the leading end of the first strip of pouches at the outtake of the first intake path;determine, using the outtake path strip detector, if another strip of pouches is present in the common outtake path; and after determining that the common outtake path is clear of another strip of pouches, activate the third conveying actuator to advance the first strip of pouches along the common outtake path.

14. The dispensing apparatus of claim 13, wherein the controller is further configured to: in response to detecting, using the second intake strip detector, the presence of a leading end of a second strip of pouches at the second intake opening, activate the at least one second conveying actuator to advance the second strip of pouches along the second intake path; detect, using the second outtake strip detector, the presence of the leading end of the second strip of pouches at the outtake of the second intake path; and after determining that the common outtake path is clear of another strip of pouches, activate the third conveying actuator to advance the second strip of pouches along the common outtake path.

15. The dispensing apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 14, further comprising: a first optical sensor directed towards the first intake path and configured to detect indicia printed on a strip of pouches positioned in the first intake path to determine at least one of: an identification of a patient to whom medication in the strip of pouches positioned in the first intake path is prescribed; and a dosing schedule associated with the strip of pouches positioned in the first intake path.

16. The dispensing apparatus of claim 15, further comprising a controller, wherein the controller is configured to communicate with a remote computing device when determining the at least one of the identification of a patient and the dosing schedule.

17. The dispensing apparatus of claim 15 or claim 16, further comprising at least one of: a first illumination source provided on a same side of the first intake path as the first optical sensor to provide top lighting of the strip of pouches positioned in the first intake path; and a second illumination source provided on an opposite side of the first intake path as the first optical sensor to provide backlighting the strip of pouches positioned in the first intake path.

18. The dispensing apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 17, further comprising: a second optical sensor directed towards the second intake path and configured to detect indicia printed on a strip of pouches positioned in the second intake path to determine at least one of: an identification of a patient to whom medication in the strip of pouches positioned in the second intake path is prescribed; and a dosing schedule associated with the strip of pouches positioned in the second intake path.

19. The dispensing apparatus of claim 18, further comprising a controller, wherein the controller is configured to communicate with a remote computing device when determining the at least one of the identification of a patient and the dosing schedule.

20. The dispensing apparatus of claim 18 or claim 19, further comprising at least one of: a first illumination source provided on a same side of the second intake path as the second optical sensor to provide top lighting of the strip of pouches positioned in the second intake path; and a second illumination source provided on an opposite side of the second intake path as the second optical sensor to provide backlighting the strip of pouches positioned in the second intake path.21 . The dispensing apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 21 , further comprising: at least one intake guiding feature positioned proximate at least one of the first intake opening and the second intake opening.

22. The dispensing apparatus of claim 21 , wherein the at least one intake guiding feature comprises a first intake lighting element positioned proximate the first intake opening and a second intake lighting element positioned proximate the second intake opening.

23. The dispensing apparatus of claim 21 , wherein the at least one intake guiding feature comprises a first brush strip positioned proximate the first intake opening and a second brush strip positioned proximate the second intake opening.

24. The dispensing apparatus of claim 21 , wherein the at least one intake guiding feature comprises an intake flap assembly that includes a flap body pivotally secured to the dispensing apparatus, the flap body being movable between a raised position and a lowered position.

25. A method for advancing a strip of pouches through a dispensing apparatus, the method comprising: detecting a presence of a leading end of a strip of pouches at a first intake opening of the dispensing apparatus; activating an advancing assembly associated with the first intake to advance the strip of pouches along a first intake path; detecting a presence of the leading end of the strip of pouches at an outtake of the first intake path; determining a presence of another strip of pouches in a common outtake path of the dispensing apparatus; in response to determining that the common outtake path is clear: advancing the leading end of the strip of pouches along the common outtake path until it reaches a a separation mechanism positioned within the common outtake path, in response to determining that the common outtake path is not clear: holding leading end of the strip of pouches in the first intake path until the common outtake path is clear.

26. The method of claim 25, further comprising: determining at least one of: a patient identification, and a dosing schedule for medication in the strip of pouches.

27. The method of claim 26, wherein the determining of the patient identification and / or the dosing schedule is performed using an optical sensor of the dispensing apparatus to detect indicia printed on the strip of pouches.

28. The method of claim 26 or claim 27, further comprising: comparing a determined patient identification against a patent identification associated with dispensing apparatus, and in response to determining a mismatch of the compared patient identifications, ejecting the strip of pouches from the dispensing apparatus.

29. The method of any one of claims 26 to 28, further comprising: comparing a determined dosing schedule against an expected dosing schedule stored in the dispensing apparatus, and in response to determining a mismatch of the compared dosing schedules, obtaining a new or updated dosing schedule to be stored in the dispensing apparatus.

30. A method of dispensing by a dispensing apparatus, the dispensing apparatus comprising: a housing, a first intake opening defined in the housing, a second intake opening defined in the housing, an outtake opening defined in the housing, at least one first conveying actuator, at least one second conveying actuator, a third conveying actuator positioned proximate an intake of a common outtake path, and a selection mechanism controllable by a controller; the method comprising: controlling the at least one first conveying actuator to advance a first strip of pouches along a first intake path to the intake of the common outtake path; controlling the selection mechanism to direct a leading end of the first strip of pouches towards the third conveying actuator; controlling the third conveying actuator to advance the first strip of pouches along the common outtake path towards the outtake opening; while at least a portion of the first strip of pouches is in the common outtake path, controlling the at least one second conveying actuator to advance a second strip of pouches along a second intake path to the intake of the common outtake path; and in response to detecting that the first strip of pouches is no longer in the first intake path, controlling the selection mechanism to direct a leading end of the second strip of pouches towards the third conveying actuator.31 . The method of claim 30, further comprising: while at least a portion of the second strip of pouches is in the common outtake path, controlling the at least one first conveying actuator to advance a third strip of pouches along the first intake path.

32. The method of claim 31 , further comprising: in response to detecting that the second strip of pouches is no longer in the second intake path, controlling the selection mechanism to direct a leading end of the third strip of pouches towards the third conveying actuator.

33. The method of claim 30, further comprising: in response to determining that the at least a portion of the first strip of pouches is in the common outtake path: before controlling the at least one second conveying actuator to advance the second strip of pouches along the second intake path, generating an alert to insert the second strip of pouches into the second intake opening.

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