Patent ID: 7751930
Filing Date: 2010-07-06
Classification: B65G

Abstract:
1. A separate empty carrier apparatus for the automatic storage, retrieval and distribution of empty pneumatic tube carriers on demand to and from a plurality of destinations within a pneumatic tube system, said apparatus comprising: at least one computer having a database for receiving and transmitting information within said pneumatic tube system; at least one empty pneumatic tube carrier of a plurality of pneumatic tube carriers, wherein said at least one empty pneumatic tube carrier being generally cylindrical and disposed about a longitudinal axis; a first diverter coupled to said pneumatic tube system for directing said at least one empty pneumatic tube carrier to said pneumatic tube system; a storage compartment for storing said at least one empty pneumatic tube carrier, wherein said storage compartment comprises a second diverter for moving said at least one empty pneumatic tube carrier to said first diverter for distribution to said pneumatic tube system, wherein said at least one empty pneumatic tube carrier is associated with a predetermined location in said storage compartment; and at least one control means for facilitating sending said at least one empty pneumatic tube carrier between at least one user station of a plurality of user stations or facilitating sending said at least one empty pneumatic tube carrier between said at least one user station and said storage compartment; wherein said storage compartment is connected to said pneumatic tube system via said first diverter, wherein said at least one empty pneumatic tube carrier is received from said at least one user station and stored in said predetermined location in said storage compartment, wherein said at least one empty pneumatic tube carrier is returned to said at least one user station if said predetermined location is full, wherein a notification message is displayed at said at least one user station sending said at least one empty pneumatic tube carrier if said at least one empty pneumatic tube carrier is returned to said at least one user station, wherein said at least one empty pneumatic tube carrier is directed to said storage compartment or directed to said at least one user station within said pneumatic tube system in response to said information.