Patent ID: 8060248
Filing Date: 2011-11-15
Classification: B65B,B65C,G07F

Abstract:
1. An automated prescription filling and pill dispensing cabinet system, comprising: a) at least one automated pharmaceutical dispenser comprising a plurality of individual, independently operable pill-counting mechanisms each having its own storage of medications disposed in groups upon a plurality of movable shelves, each of said pill-counting mechanisms containing a supply of a predetermined pill and each having an output buffer adapted to receive and temporarily retain counted pills therefrom, said output buffer comprising an output area adapted to removably receive a vial presented thereat by an effector of a robotic mechanism and to discharge said temporarily retained pills into said vial; b) a robotic mechanism located proximate said at least one automated pharmaceutical pill dispensing cabinet and having an effector adapted to grasp a vial; c) a plurality of microprocessors for respectively controlling said plurality of individual, independent pill-counting mechanisms and said robotic mechanism connected thereto, comprising means for at least one of: d) an automated prescription filling system wherein at least one of said plurality of individual, independently operable pill-counting mechanisms comprises a microprocessor.