Patent ID: 6704615
Filing Date: 2004-03-09
Classification: G07F

Abstract:
A dispenser comprising:a. a support structure arranged in a portable case and configured to receive and hold objects in an array for dispensing; b. retainers mounted on the support structure so that each one of the retainers retains a corresponding one of the objects in a held position in the array; c. the support structure being oriented in a dispensing position so that selectively releasing any one of the objects for dispensing allows the released object to move out of the support structure and drop downward gravitationally; d. each one of the retainers being movable between a latched position blocking exit of the corresponding one of the objects from its held position and an unlatched position allowing entry of the corresponding one of the objects into the held position and exit of the corresponding one of the objects from the held position when released for dispensing; e. the support structure having latch mechanisms that latch and unlatch the retainers; and f. microcircuitry arranged to operate the latch mechanisms to unlatch the retainers and thereby release selected objects for dispensing.