Abstract:
An apparatus for automated storage and dispensing of medications. Medications are stored in an inventory storage container attached to a frame of the apparatus. Medications are delivered to the apparatus via a locked delivery container. A carrier mechanism retrieves medications from the inventory storage container and delivery container and moves medications to various subsystems of the apparatus. Information related to medications is communicated to a remote pharmacist prior to dispensing the medication. Multiple installations of the apparatus are centrally coordinated.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
       [0001]    This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/127,244, filed on Mar. 2, 2015, the entirety of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference. 
     
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
       [0002]    This invention relates generally to medication dispensers and methods for storing and dispensing medications. In particular, this invention provides a centrally coordinated automated medication dispenser configured to be monitored remotely by a pharmacist who oversees one or more automated medication dispensers, thereby increasing the efficiency of the medication dispensing process. Further efficiencies are achieved by improved logistics, trend observations, and geolocating via a phone application. 
       BACKGROUND 
       [0003]    Traditionally, dispensing of medications has been performed exclusively in a pharmacy setting in which one or more pharmacists must be physically present. Legal requirements in some jurisdictions mandate a certain number of pharmacies per geographical area, resulting in a large number of pharmacies, each of which must be staffed by at least one pharmacist. Because each pharmacist can only serve one pharmacy, a large number of highly trained individuals is needed to staff the many traditional pharmacies in existence, resulting in great expense. 
         [0004]    In addition to the expense of supporting traditional pharmacies, a relatively large number of individuals may have unmonitored access to medications stored in traditional pharmacy inventories. This uncontrolled access results in a large number of medications that go missing without the ability to determine precisely who took the medication. 
         [0005]    Attempts have been made to remedy the inefficiencies presented by traditional pharmacies with kiosks; however, the medication dispensing kiosks available still rely heavily on pharmacist interaction. In some instances, a pharmacist must restock medications. In other instances, the kiosk functions only to place the pharmacist remotely from the kiosk, and a pharmacist must still instigate and complete the medication dispensing process. The available kiosks also do not address the issue of medication security as medication packages are directly handled by a technician and placed by hand into the kiosk. For at least these reasons, an apparatus that automatically restocks and dispenses medications with minimal interaction by a pharmacist would be advantageous. 
       BRIEF SUMMARY 
       [0006]    In accordance with one embodiment of the invention, an apparatus for storing and dispensing medications contained in a bottle or other packaging is provided. The apparatus comprises an inventory storage container that is configured to store a number of medication packages within the apparatus. Medications to be stored in the inventory storage container may be provided in a locked delivery container, and the apparatus is capable of automatically unloading the delivery container to place medications held by the delivery container into the inventory storage container. Medications are removed from the inventory storage container or delivery container by a carrier that is configured to move the medications between various sub-assemblies of the apparatus. A printer assembly is provided to print labels to be adhered on the medication packaging. A computer disposed in the apparatus controls the function of the various other components of the apparatus, communicates with a centralized database that stores patient and medication information and manages inventory. An input device disposed on the apparatus allows technicians, patients, and other users to interact with the apparatus. 
         [0007]    Through the use of locked delivery container, the apparatus may be securely restocked by a technician while complying with legal requirements of a jurisdiction. In one embodiment, restocking the apparatus comprises authenticating a technician to access the apparatus. Once the technician is authorized, the apparatus unlocks an access panel, allowing the technician to place the locked delivery container in the apparatus. The apparatus is then locked, and the apparatus automatically unloads the delivery container, identifies the medications that have been placed within it, and places the newly added medications in the inventory storage container. 
         [0008]    Medications may be dispensed to patients with minimal intervention by a pharmacist. A patient refills a prescription by first providing identifying information to the apparatus through an input device such as a touchscreen. The apparatus verifies that the patient has a valid prescription for the requested medication through communication with the centralized database. The apparatus also determines if the apparatus contains the medication the patient has requested. The medication is pushed from its location in the inventory storage container, labelled, scanned by a barcode reader, and an image is captured. The patient&#39;s prescription and images of the medication before and after labelling are communicated to a pharmacist, who inspects the information communicated from the apparatus to the pharmacist and may approve or reject dispensing the medication to the patient based on the inspection. This embodiment of a dispensing process is advantageous because it minimizes the pharmacist&#39;s interaction, yet satisfies the legal requirements of many jurisdictions. 
         [0009]    Lock boxes located externally to the apparatus may be used to store dispensed medications, extending the capacity of the inventory storage container. Access to the lock boxes is controlled by the apparatus, and a technician may move the medications into the lock boxes. 
         [0010]    Software running on a phone or similar device may be used to find the nearest apparatus containing all medications required by the user. 
         [0011]    Required inventory may be predicted based on trends observed in dispensing history. 
         [0012]    While the embodiments described refer to medications, other items may be similarly stored and dispensed from the described apparatus. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0013]    Having thus described the invention in general terms, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, and wherein: 
           [0014]      FIG. 1  illustrates a front external view of an apparatus for storing and dispensing items such as medications in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. 
           [0015]      FIG. 2  illustrates a front view of the internal structure of an apparatus for storing and dispensing items such as medications in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. 
           [0016]      FIG. 3  illustrates a rear view of the internal structure of an apparatus for storing and dispensing items such as medications in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. 
           [0017]      FIG. 4  illustrates a side view of the internal structure of an apparatus for storing and dispensing items such as medications in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. 
           [0018]      FIG. 5  illustrates a side view of the internal structure of an apparatus for storing and dispensing items such as medications in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. 
           [0019]      FIG. 6  illustrates a delivery container in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. 
           [0020]      FIG. 7  illustrates an alternative embodiment of a delivery container and a delivery container support assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. 
           [0021]      FIG. 8  illustrates the internal structure of an alternative embodiment of a delivery container in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. 
           [0022]      FIG. 9  illustrates an inventory storage container for storing items such as medications in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. 
           [0023]      FIG. 10  illustrates a label handling assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. 
           [0024]      FIG. 11  illustrates a carrier in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. 
           [0025]      FIG. 12  illustrates an extendable member and flipper in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. 
           [0026]      FIG. 13  illustrates a method for replacing a delivery container in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. 
           [0027]      FIG. 14  illustrates a method for stocking an inventory storage container in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. 
           [0028]      FIG. 15  illustrates an alternative method for stocking an inventory storage container in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. 
           [0029]      FIG. 16  illustrates a method for dispensing a medication in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0030]    Some embodiments of the present invention will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some, but not all, embodiments of the invention are shown. Indeed, various embodiments of the invention may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will satisfy applicable legal requirements. Like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout. Some components of the apparatus are not shown in one or more of the figures for clarity and to facilitate explanation of embodiments of the present invention. 
         [0031]    In accordance with one embodiment,  FIG. 1 ,  FIG. 2 ,  FIG. 3 ,  FIG. 4 , and  FIG. 5  illustrate an apparatus  1  for storing and dispensing medications. In one embodiment, apparatus  1  comprises a frame  10 . An inventory storage container  20  for storing medications, stationary tracks  50  and  60 , a printer assembly, a computer, and an input device  100  are attached to frame  10 . 
         [0032]    An enclosure may attach to the frame  10  to completely surround the apparatus  1  and prevent access to the control electronics and other internal components of the apparatus  1  and items stored in the apparatus  1 . In one embodiment, the enclosure comprises a plastic covering. In other embodiments, the enclosure may comprise a covering made from metal, wood, or another material capable of enclosing the internal components of the apparatus  1 . 
       Frame 
       [0033]    Frame  10  defines a generally box-shaped structure capable of providing stable mounting points for other components of the apparatus  1 . Frame  10  may comprise rails defining the corners of the box-shaped structure. Frame  10  may further comprise additional rails or cross bracing to provide stability or mounting points for components of the apparatus  1 . Frame  10  may be constructed from metal, wood, plastic, or other rigid material capable of attaching to and supporting other structures and sub-systems of the apparatus  1 . Wires connecting various parts of the apparatus may be routed through the frame  10  such that wiring is not exposed. 
       Carrier Assembly 
       [0034]    In one embodiment, a carrier  400  is configured to retrieve items and move items between sub-systems of the apparatus  1 . The carrier  400  can be moved horizontally and vertically, allowing the carrier  400  to access any compartment  220  of the inventory storage container  20 , any compartment  705  of the delivery container  700 , or any other sub-system of the apparatus  1 . 
         [0035]    A stationary track  50  extends from a first rail of the frame  10  to the parallel rail of the frame  10  on the same side of the apparatus  1 . Likewise, stationary track  60  extends from the same first rail of the frame  10  to the same parallel rail of the frame  10  on the same side of the apparatus  1 . Stationary track  50  is situated near the top of the frame  10 , stationary track  60  is situated near the bottom of the frame  10 , and stationary tracks  50  and  60  are parallel to each other. Stationary tracks  50  and  60  are fixedly attached to the frame  10 . 
         [0036]    A moving carrier track  410  extends from stationary track  50  to stationary track  60 . An upper end of the moving carrier track  410  may be connected to stationary track  50  by an upper carrier track carriage  420  that engages a channel in stationary track  50 . Similarly, a lower end of the moving carrier track  410  may be connected to stationary track  60  by a lower carrier track carriage  430  that engages a channel in stationary track  60 . A belt situated within the channel of stationary track  50  engages both the upper carrier track carriage  420  and the shaft of an upper carrier track motor  440 . Another belt situated within the channel of stationary track  60  engages both the lower carrier track carriage  430  and the shaft of a lower carrier track motor  445 . By rotating the shaft of the upper carrier track motor  440  and the lower carrier track motor  445 , the moving carrier track  410  is moved horizontally. In one embodiment, a connecting rod attached to the shaft of either upper carrier track motor  440  or lower carrier track motor  445  extends between stationary tracks  50  and  60  and engages each belt situated within the channels of each of stationary tracks  50  and  60 , allowing one motor to drive both of the belts responsible for the movement of the moving carrier track  410 . By using one motor and a connecting rod in this manner, the speeds of and distances traveled by the upper carrier track carriage  420  and the lower carrier track carriage  430  are the same. Limit switches may be located at each end of stationary tracks  50  and  60  to indicate when the carrier track carriages  420  and  430  have reached the ends of their travel ranges. 
         [0037]    A carrier carriage  460  engages a channel in the moving carrier track  410 . A belt situated within the channel of the moving carrier track  410  engages the carrier carriage  460  and the shaft of a carrier carriage motor  470 . By rotating the shaft of the carrier carriage motor  470 , the carrier carriage  460  is moved vertically along the moving carrier track  410 . Limit switches may be located at each end of the moving carrier track  410  to indicate when the carrier carriage  460  has reached the ends of its travel range. 
         [0038]    The carrier  400  is mounted to the carrier carriage  460 . As shown in  FIG. 11 , the carrier  400  comprises one or more container engaging surfaces  480  capable of engaging and holding a container. Multiple container engaging surfaces  480  may be positioned relative to each other in order to form an angle that prevents containers being held by the container engaging surfaces  480  from rolling off the carrier  400 . Each container engaging surface  480  comprises one or more rollers  484 , each roller  484  being generally parallel to other rollers  484  of that container engaging surface  480 . One or more carrier roller belts  485  engage and surround the rollers  484  of a container engaging surface  480 . A container being held on carrier  400  may be rotated by rotating the one or more rollers  484  of the one or more container engaging surfaces  480 . As rollers  484  are rotated, the one or more belts  485  are moved; thus causing the container held on carrier  400  to rotate. Rotation of rollers  484  may be accomplished by a motor, servo, or other device capable of rotating the rollers  484 . 
         [0039]    As shown in  FIG. 12 , the carrier  400  further comprises an extendable member  481  configured to pass beneath container engaging surfaces  480 , and to extend into and engage containers stored in an inventory storage container compartment  220  or a delivery container compartment  705 . The extendable member  481  comprises a chain, cable, strip, or other material capable of being held rigid when extended and rolled into a coil when not extended. When extended, the extendable member  481  is capable of extending the full depth of the inventory storage container  20  or delivery container  700 . 
         [0040]    A first end  490  of extendable member  481  is connected to the shaft of an extendable member motor  486 . Extension of the extendable member  481  may be accomplished by rotating the shaft of the extendable member motor  486  in a first direction, causing the extendable member  481  to extend. Retraction of the extendable member  481  may be accomplished by rotating the shaft of the extendable member motor  486  in the opposite direction, causing the extendable member  481  to return to a coiled state. A tensioning mechanism may assist with the retraction of the extendable member  481  to prevent the extendable member  481  from binding up as it returns to its coiled state. A sensor may be provided to indicate when the extendable member  481  has been fully extended or retracted. Further, a coil containment compartment  489  disposed on the carrier  400  may surround the extendable member  481  while it is in its retracted and coiled state, causing the extendable member  481  to coil evenly on itself and prevent tangling of the extendable member  481 . 
         [0041]    Carrier  400  further comprises a flipper  482 . Flipper  482  comprises a strip of rigid material having a first flipper end  487  and a second flipper end  488 . First flipper end  487  is connected to a second end  491  of extendable member  481  via a flipper actuator  483 , and the flipper  482  is capable of being rotated about the first flipper end  487 . 
         [0042]    To retrieve a container stored in an inventory storage container compartment  220  or a delivery container compartment  705  adjacent to the carrier  400 , extendable member motor  486  is rotated in a first direction, causing extendable member  481  to uncoil and extend beneath the container engaging surfaces  480  and into the compartment channel associated with the inventory storage container compartment  220  or delivery container compartment  705 . When the first flipper end  487  has reached the end of the container in the inventory storage container compartment  220  or delivery container compartment  705  that is furthest from the carrier  400 , flipper  482  is actuated by the flipper actuator  483  to rotate about the first flipper end  487  in a first direction until flipper  482  forms an approximately 90 degree angle to extendable member  481 . The extendable member motor  486  can then be rotated in a second direction, causing extendable member  481  to retract, and causing flipper  482  to engage a surface of the container in the inventory storage container compartment  220  or delivery container compartment  705  that is furthest from the carrier  400 , pulling the container toward the carrier  400 . As the container furthest from the carrier  400  is pulled toward the carrier  400 , each additional container situated between the furthest container and the carrier  400  is also pulled toward the carrier  400 . This motion of the extendable member  481  continues until a sensor indicates that a container is situated on the container engaging surfaces  480 . At this point, flipper  482  is actuated to rotate about the first flipper end  487  in a second direction until flipper  482  is generally parallel to extendable member  481  and can pass beneath the container engaging surfaces  480 . 
         [0043]    To place a container being held on the carrier  400  into an inventory storage container compartment  220  adjacent to the carrier  400 , extendable member motor  486  is rotated as needed to position second flipper end  488  near the end of the container on the carrier  400  that is furthest from the inventory storage container compartment  220 . Flipper  482  is then actuated to rotate about the first flipper end  487  in a first direction until flipper  482  forms an approximately 90 degree angle to extendable member  481 . The extendable member motor  486  can then be rotated in a first direction, causing extendable member  481  to extend beneath the container engaging surfaces  480 , and causing flipper  482  to engage the surface of the container on the carrier  400  that is furthest from the inventory storage container compartment  220 , pushing the container toward the inventory storage container compartment  220 . As the container on the carrier  400  is pushed into the inventory storage container compartment  220 , any containers already situated in the inventory storage container compartment  220  are pushed further into the inventory storage container compartment  220  to accommodate the container being pushed off the carrier  400 . This motion of the extendable member  481  continues until a sensor indicates that the flipper  482  has reached the edge of the inventory storage container compartment  220 , indicating that the container has been positioned entirely in the inventory storage container compartment  220 . At this point, the extendable member motor  486  is rotated in a second direction, causing the extendable member  481  to retract, until flipper  482  can rotate without interfering with containers in the inventory storage container compartment  220 . Flipper  482  is then actuated to rotate about the first flipper end  487  in a second direction until flipper  482  is generally parallel to extendable member  481  and can pass beneath the container engaging surfaces  480 . 
       Inventory Storage Container 
       [0044]    As shown in  FIG. 9 , an inventory storage container  20  configured to attach to the frame  10  provides a structure within the apparatus  1  where one or more medications may be stored. Inventory storage container  20  comprises a plurality of compartments  220 , wherein each compartment  220  is accessible to the carrier  400 . Compartments  220  may be elongated chambers situated within the inventory storage container  20 . A compartment channel  221  may extend generally parallel to each compartment  220 , and be generally the same length as each compartment  220 . Each compartment channel  221  comprises an open space adjacent to its corresponding compartment  220 , and is of sufficient height and width to accommodate entry of the extendable member  481 . Compartments  220  may vary in size to allow various sizes of medication packaging to be stored while maximizing the number of compartments  220 ; thus maximizing the number of medications that can be stored in inventory storage container  20 . One or more adaptors may be placed in any compartment  220  to allow placement of non-cylindrical or oddly shaped packaging such that it is accessible to the carrier  400 . 
         [0045]    The side of each compartment  220  that is adjacent to the carrier  400  may be open to allow for the carrier  400  to access medications located in each compartment  220 . The opposite end of each compartment  220  may be covered by a cover  230 . 
         [0046]    Inventory storage container  20  and its individual compartments  220  may be angled such that the end of each compartment  220  that is covered by cover  230  is lower than the opposite and open end. Such angling of inventory storage container  20  and compartments  220  prevents medication packaging from falling out of the inventory storage container  20  if the apparatus  1  experiences vibration, shaking, or other motion. 
         [0047]    The inventory storage container  20  may be constructed from metal, wood, cardboard, plastic, or other suitable material. 
       Delivery Container and Delivery Container Support Assembly 
       [0048]    One embodiment of a delivery container  700  is shown in  FIG. 6 . The delivery container  700  provides a secure structure for introducing new medications into the apparatus  1 . Delivery container  700  comprises a lockable delivery container enclosure  701  and a plurality of compartments  705  disposed inside the enclosure  701 . Once the delivery container  700  has been placed inside the apparatus  1 , and the apparatus  1  has unlocked and opened the enclosure  701 , each compartment  705  is accessible to the carrier  400 . Compartments  705  may be elongated chambers situated within the delivery container  700 . A compartment channel  706  may extend generally parallel to each compartment  705 , and be generally the same length as each compartment  705 . Each compartment channel  706  comprises an open space adjacent to its corresponding compartment  705 , and is of sufficient height and width to accommodate entry of the extendable member  481 . Compartments  705  may vary in size to allow various sizes of medication packaging to be stored while maximizing the number of compartments  705 ; thus maximizing the number of medications that can be stored in the delivery container  700 . One or more adaptors may be placed in any compartment  705  to allow placement of non-cylindrical or oddly shaped packaging such that it is accessible to the carrier  400 . 
         [0049]    An alternative embodiment of the delivery container  700  is shown in  FIG. 7  and  FIG. 8 . This alternative embodiment employs a delivery container support assembly  70 . The delivery container support assembly  70  comprises four corner supports  710  wherein each of the four corner supports  710  comprises a first end and a second end. The first end of each corner support  710  attaches to the frame  10  such that each of the corner supports  710  is generally perpendicular to a bottom surface or plane of the apparatus  1 , and the placement of the corner supports  710  creates a generally rectangular base for the delivery container  700  to rest upon. 
         [0050]    The second ends of two of the two corner supports  710  may be connected together by a brace  720  to form a first side of the delivery container support assembly  70 . Similarly, the second ends of the other two corner supports  710  may also be connected together by a brace  720  to form a second side of the delivery container support assembly  70 , wherein the second side of the delivery container support assembly  70  is generally parallel to the first side of the delivery container support assembly  70 . 
         [0051]    The second ends of two of the two corner supports  710  may additionally be connected together by rods  740 . The rods  740  connect the first and second sides of the delivery container support assembly  70  together such that the rods  740  are generally parallel to each other and generally perpendicular to the first and second sides of the delivery container support assembly  70 . A roller  730  surrounds each of the rods  740  such that each roller  730  is free to rotate about the rod  740  that it surrounds. The rollers  730  provide the surface that the delivery container  700  rests upon. 
         [0052]    The delivery container support assembly  70  may further comprise a center support  715  having a first end and a second end. The first end of the center support  715  attaches to the frame  10  such that the center support  715  is generally parallel to the corner supports  710 , and such that the attachment point of the first end of the center support  715  is disposed generally in the center of the rectangle formed by the attachment points of the first ends of the corner supports  710  to the frame  10 . Connecting rods  716  pass through the second end of the center support  715  and the braces  720  in the first and second sides of the delivery container support assembly  70 . 
         [0053]    As shown in  FIG. 7  and  FIG. 8 , in this alternative embodiment, the delivery container  700  comprises a cylindrical drum having a first flat surface  750  and a second flat surface  760  wherein the first flat surface  750  is fixedly attached to the body of the delivery container  700  and the second flat surface  760  attaches to the body of the delivery container  700  at the center of the second flat surface  760  such that the second flat surface  760  is capable of rotating independently of the delivery container  700 . 
         [0054]    The second flat surface  760  comprises a disk having notches disposed around the circumference of the disk wherein the notches are configured to engage a gear disposed on the connecting rod  716  corresponding to the second flat surface  760 . A motor  732  drives the gear corresponding to the second flat surface  760 , causing the second surface  760  to rotate as the shaft of the motor  732  is rotated. Similarly, the first flat surface  750  comprises a disk having notches disposed around the circumference of the disk wherein the notches are configured to engage a second gear disposed on the connecting rod  716  corresponding to the first flat surface  750 . A second motor  733  drives the second gear causing the first surface  750  to rotate as the shaft of the motor  733  is rotated. Thus, the first surface  750  and the second surface  760  may be rotated independently of each other. 
         [0055]    As shown in  FIG. 8 , the delivery container  700  further comprises a plurality of compartments  705  of various shapes and sizes disposed within the delivery container  700  and extending from the first flat surface  750  to the second flat surface  760 . 
         [0056]    The first flat surface  750  further comprises a number of openings  751 , wherein each opening  751  corresponds to a compartment  705  of the delivery container  700 . Each opening  751  is large enough to allow a pushing mechanism to make contact with medications stored in each compartment  705 , but is small enough to prevent medication packages stored in the compartment  705  from passing through the opening  751 . 
         [0057]    The second flat surface  760  further comprises one or more openings capable of being sequentially aligned with each compartment  705  in the delivery container  700 . The second flat surface  760  may be rotated to a locked position in which no medications can pass through any opening in the second flat surface  760 . To hold the second flat surface  760  in the locked position, a lock  762  may engage both the second flat surface  760  and the delivery container  700  such that the second flat surface  760  cannot be rotated or removed when the lock mechanism is set to the locked position. In one embodiment, the lock  762  may comprise a barrel lock similar to those used for bicycle locks. In another embodiment, the lock  762  may comprise a solenoid that, when actuated, prevents the second flat surface  760  from being rotated or removed from the delivery container  700 . Electronics embedded in the delivery container  700  control the solenoid and securely negotiate with the electronics of the apparatus  1 . The computer may communicate instructions in the form of an electronic key to the embedded electronics instructing the lock  762  to lock or unlock. The embedded electronics can also contain information relevant to the delivery container  700  and exchange information with the apparatus  1 , e.g. inventory, logs, and firmware. Power is transmitted via conducting rings and brushes surrounding the delivery container  700 . 
         [0058]    The delivery container support assembly  70  may be connected to the frame  10  such that the first side of the delivery container support assembly  70  is slightly lower than the second side of the delivery container support assembly  70 . When delivery container  700  engages the delivery container support assembly  70 , such angling causes the delivery container to also be angled such that the first surface of the delivery container  700  is also slightly lower than the second surface of the delivery container  700 . Such angling of the delivery container support assembly  70  and the delivery container  700  prevents medication packaging from falling out of the delivery container  700  if the apparatus  1  experiences vibration, shaking, or other motion. 
       Printer Assembly 
       [0059]    The printer assembly prints patient information, dosage instructions, QR code barcodes for accessing additional product information, and other information on an adhesive label, and adheres the label to medication packaging to prepare the medication for being dispensed to a patient. The printer assembly comprises a printer assembly mount  810 , a label printer  800 , and a label handling assembly  845 . The printer assembly mount  810  provides an attachment point to the frame  10  and a support surface for other printer assembly components. 
         [0060]    As shown in  FIG. 10 , the label handling assembly  845  comprises a rail  850  attached to the printer assembly mount  810 . A labeler carriage  870  engages and is movable along the rail  850  in a direction that is generally parallel to the rail  850  in order to move printed labels from the label printer  800  to a container disposed on the carrier  400 . In one embodiment a labeler  871  comprises a flat piece of metal, plastic, or other rigid material having a first end and a second, opposite, end. The first end of the labeler  871  is attached to the labeler carriage  870 . The labeler  871  is capable of being rotated around an axis positioned at the first end of the labeler  871  such that the second end of the labeler  871  can be moved between raised and lowered positions. The labeler  871  further comprises a first side and a second, opposite, side with one or more openings passing from the first side to the second side. Mounted to the first side of the labeler  871  are one or more fans  872  configured to pull air through the one or more openings in the labeler  871  such that air moves from the second side to the first side. 
         [0061]    In order to move a printed label from the label printer  800  to a container on the carrier  400 , the labeler carriage  870  is moved along the rail  850  until the labeler  871  is generally aligned with the printed label on the label printer  800 . The labeler  871  is rotated around its first end such that the labeler  871  is placed in its lowered position near the printed label on the label printer  800 . The one or more fans  872  are powered, causing air to pass from the second side of the labeler  871  to the first side of the labeler  871 ; thus causing the non-adhesive side of the label to temporarily cling to the labeler  871 . Labeler  871  is then rotated about its first end to its raised position, and the labeler  871  is moved along the rail  850  until the labeler  871  and printed label are generally aligned with the container being held on the carrier  400 . The labeler  871  is then rotated around its first end such that the labeler  871  is placed in its lowered position, and the adhesive side of the label engages the container on the carrier  400 . The container on the carrier  400  may be rotated to wrap the label around the container; thus fully adhering the label to the container. 
         [0062]    The label printer  800  is attached to the printer assembly mount  810 , and is configured to print labels for placement on medication packaging dispensed by the apparatus  1 . In one embodiment, the label printer  800  may comprise a commercially available label printer. 
         [0063]    A dispensing chute  830  is positioned near the label handling assembly  845 . Medication that has been labelled and approved for dispensing is placed into an opening of the dispensing chute  830 , travels through the dispensing chute  830 , and exits the dispensing chute  830  through a dispensing window  840  that is accessible from the outside of the apparatus  1 . Rejected medication may be directed through a rejection chute. 
         [0064]    A barcode scanner for reading barcodes on medication packaging may be mounted near the label handling assembly  845 . In addition, an internal camera for capturing images of the medication packaging may be mounted near the label handling assembly  845 . Using barcode reading software, the barcode scanner may be implemented with a camera. 
       Computer and Centralized Database 
       [0065]    A computer mounts to the frame  10 , and controls the function of all sub-systems of the apparatus  1 . The computer may communicate electronically with a centralized database that contains patient information, medication information, drug interaction information, and other data relevant to the dispensing of medications. Data storage components installed on the computer may store information regarding the types and locations of all medications stored in the inventory storage container  20 . The types and locations of all medications stored in the inventory storage container  20  may also be communicated by the computer to the centralized database. 
         [0066]    The computer may communicate with a centralized database that stores information for all installations of the apparatus  1 . The centralized database may contain drug interaction information, client information, information regarding what medications are stored in each installation of the apparatusl, and other data. The computer may communicate with the centralized database to obtain information stored in the centralized database and to upload information regarding transactions the apparatus  1  has engaged in. 
         [0067]    Users (patients, doctors, pharmacists, etc.) may interact with the centralized database to determine where they can find an apparatus  1  that contains the medications they need. If a user needs multiple medications, then the user may be advised where the closest apparatus  1  having all of their medications is located. If there isn&#39;t apparatus  1  that has everything the user needs, then the necessary medications can be ordered and stocked in an apparatus  1  in a location that is convenient for the user. Trends can be mined from dispensing information to predict an optimal inventory for a particular apparatus  1 . As the optimal inventory changes or products expire, the old stock can be discarded via the rejection chute. 
         [0068]    Each major sub-assembly of the apparatus  1  has a separate controller in communication with the computer, and the separate controllers are networked together. 
         [0069]    In one embodiment, the computer comprises a commercially available personal computer. 
       Input Device 
       [0070]    The input device  100  mounts to the frame  10 , and allows users to interact with the apparatus  1 . In one embodiment, the input device  100  comprises a touchscreen monitor. In other embodiments, the input device  100  may comprise a monitor, keyboard, mouse, magnetic strip reader, RFI reader, NFC reader, or other equipment capable of allowing a user to input and receive data from the apparatus  1 . One or more external cameras may be installed on the apparatus  1 . Such cameras may be configured to capture images of technicians and users interacting with the apparatus  1  and communicate the image capture data to the computer and to the centralized database. 
       Methods 
       [0071]    As shown in  FIG. 13 , a method  900  for restocking medications in the apparatus  1  begins at step  905  with providing a locked delivery container  700  filled with medications. The delivery container  700  may be provided by a pharmaceutical manufacturer, pharmacist, or other supplier of medications. In one embodiment, the provider unlocks the delivery container  700 , allowing the delivery container enclosure  701  to be opened and exposing the delivery container compartments  705  to be filled. After filling the delivery container  700 , the provider locks the delivery container  700 , and the filled and locked delivery container  700  can then be provided to a technician for placement in an apparatus  1 . 
         [0072]    In another embodiment of the delivery container  700 , unlocking the delivery container  700  allows the second flat surface  760  of the delivery container  700  to rotate. The second flat surface  760  is rotated to sequentially align the openings in the second flat surface  760  with the compartments  705  of the delivery container  700 , and medications are placed in the delivery container compartments  705  as needed. After placing the medications in the delivery container  700 , the second flat surface  760  is rotated to the locked position in which no opening in the second flat surface  760  aligns with any of the compartments  705  of the delivery container  700 , and the lock  762  is placed in its locked position to prevent removal or rotation of the second flat surface  760  of the delivery container  700 . The filled and locked delivery container  700  can then be provided to a technician for placement in an apparatus  1 . 
         [0073]    The method continues at step  910  in which the technician logs in to the apparatus  1  by entering identifying information via the input device  100 . The computer transmits the entered identifying information to the centralized database to verify if the technician is authorized to access the apparatus  1 . If the computer determines from the centralized database that the technician is authorized to access the apparatus  1 , then the computer actuates an access panel lock to its open position at step  915  to allow the technician to open a delivery container access panel  5 . 
         [0074]    If the apparatus  1  contains an empty delivery container  700 , the technician removes the empty delivery container  700  from the apparatus  1 . The empty delivery container  700  may be returned to the supplier to be reused. At step  920 , the technician places the filled and locked delivery container  700  in the apparatus  1 . In certain embodiments, the filled and locked delivery container is placed in the apparatus  1  such that the notches disposed around the circumference of the second flat surface  760  of the delivery container  700  engage the gear of the delivery container support assembly  70  corresponding to the second flat surface  760 , and the notches disposed around the circumference of the first flat surface  750  of the delivery container  700  engage the gear of the delivery container support system  70  corresponding with the first flat surface  750 . The technician then closes the delivery container access panel  5 , and the computer actuates the delivery container access panel lock to its closed position at step  925 . The delivery container  700  replacement process is monitored by the computer. A sensor associated with the access door of the apparatus  1  and connected to the computer senses whether the access door is open or closed. If software running on the computer determines that the delivery container access panel  5  has been open longer than a predetermined amount of time allotted for a delivery container  700  replacement, an alert can be issued. In addition, an external camera may capture images of the technician performing the delivery container  700  replacement for security purposes. 
         [0075]    Immediately after a stocked delivery container  700  is placed in the apparatus  1 , the computer and centralized database may not contain any information about what medications are stored in the delivery container  700 . The identity of each medication is determined during a delivery container  700  unloading process that is initiated by software running on the computer after a stocked delivery container  700  has been placed in the apparatus  1 . The delivery container  700  unloading process may proceed at night or during another period of inactivity. 
         [0076]    Maintenance of the apparatus  1  proceeds in a similar manner to method  900 , but instead of replacing the delivery container  700 , the technician performs the prescribed maintenance after access is granted to internal components of the apparatus  1 . The maintenance process is monitored by the computer. A sensor associated with an access door of the apparatus  1  and connected to the computer senses whether the access door is open or closed. If software running on computer determines that the access door has been open longer than a predetermined amount of time allotted for the prescribed maintenance, an alert can be issued. In addition, an external or external camera may capture images of the technician performing the maintenance for security purposes. 
         [0077]    As shown in  FIG. 14 , a method  880  for unloading the delivery container  700  begins at step  881 . After the computer determines that the apparatus  1  is closed (i.e., not being maintained or restocked), the enclosure of the delivery container  700  is opened at step  881 . 
         [0078]    To retrieve a medication container from a delivery container compartment  705 , at step  882 , the computer sends instructions to the motor controllers controlling the upper carrier track motor  440 , lower carrier track motor  445 , and the carrier carriage motor  470  to position the carrier  400  such that the extendable member  481  is generally aligned with the delivery container compartment channel  706  that corresponds to the compartment  705  to be unloaded. 
         [0079]    At step  883 , the medication container in the delivery container compartment  705  that is closest to the carrier is pulled out of the delivery container compartment  705  and onto the carrier  400 . To retrieve each medication container from the delivery container  700 , the extendable member motor  486  is rotated in a first direction, causing extendable member  481  to uncoil and extend beneath the container engaging surfaces  480  and into the delivery container compartment channel  706  associated with the delivery container compartment  705 . When the first flipper end  487  has reached the end of the medication container in the delivery container compartment  705  that is furthest from the carrier  400 , flipper  482  is actuated to rotate about the first flipper end  487  in a first direction until flipper  482  forms an approximately 90 degree angle to extendable member  481 . The extendable member motor  486  is then rotated in a second direction, causing extendable member  481  to retract, and causing flipper  482  to engage a surface of the container in the delivery container compartment  705  that is furthest from the carrier  400 , pulling the container toward the carrier  400 . As the medication container furthest from the carrier  400  is pulled toward the carrier  400 , each additional container situated between the furthest container and the carrier  400  is also pulled toward the carrier  400 . This motion of the extendable member  481  continues until a sensor indicates that a container is disposed on the container engaging surfaces  480 . At this point, flipper  482  is actuated to rotate about the first flipper end  487  in a second direction until flipper  482  is generally parallel to extendable member  481  and can pass beneath the container engaging surfaces  480 . 
         [0080]    At step  886 , the barcode of the medication container on the carrier  400  is scanned by a barcode reader as the medication package is rotated on the carrier  400 . The barcode reader communicates the barcode to the computer. Each medication sold has a unique barcode displayed on the medication packaging. Equipped with the barcode, the computer can query the central database to determine the type of medication, quantity of medication, the dimensions of the packaging, and other information associated with the unique barcode and stored in the central database. The computer identifies a compartment  220  in the inventory storage container  20  that can accommodate the newly added medication. 
         [0081]    At step  887 , the medication container being held on the carrier  400  is placed into the inventory storage container compartment  220  chosen by the computer. The carrier  400  is moved such that the extendable member  481  is generally aligned with the channel  221  of the chosen inventory storage container compartment  220 . Extendable member motor  486  is rotated as needed to position second flipper end  488  near the end of the container on the carrier  400  that is furthest from the inventory storage container compartment  220 . Flipper  482  is then actuated to rotate about the first flipper end  487  in a first direction until flipper  482  forms an approximately 90 degree angle to extendable member  481 . The extendable member motor  486  can then be rotated in a first direction, causing extendable member  481  to extend beneath the container engaging surfaces  480 , and causing flipper  482  to engage the surface of the container on the carrier  400  that is furthest from the inventory storage container compartment  220 , pushing the container toward the inventory storage container compartment  220 . As the container on the carrier  400  is pushed into the inventory storage container compartment  220 , any containers already disposed within the inventory storage container compartment  220  are pushed further into the inventory storage container compartment  220  to accommodate the container being pushed off the carrier  400 . This motion of the extendable member  481  continues until a sensor indicates that the flipper  482  has reached the edge of the inventory storage container compartment  220 , indicating that the container has been positioned entirely in the inventory storage container compartment  220 . At this point, the extendable member motor  486  is rotated in a second direction, causing the extendable member  481  to retract, until flipper  482  can rotate without interfering with containers in the inventory storage container compartment  220 . Flipper  482  is then actuated to rotate about the first flipper end  487  in a second direction until flipper  482  is generally parallel to extendable member  481  and can pass beneath the container engaging surfaces  480 . 
         [0082]    At step  888 , the type and location within the inventory storage container  20  of the newly added medication is communicated to and stored in data storage components installed on the computer, and the type and location data may also be communicated and stored by the computer in the centralized database. 
         [0083]    The method  880  proceeds by repeating steps  882 ,  883 ,  886 ,  887 , and  888  until all medications have been removed from the compartment  705  in the delivery container  700  and placed in the inventory storage container  20 . 
         [0084]    Another embodiment for unloading the delivery container  700  is shown in  FIG. 15 . A method  950  for unloading the delivery container  700  begins at step  955 . To unload a particular compartment  705  of the delivery container  700 , the second flat surface  760  of the delivery container  700  is rotated such that one of the openings in the second flat surface  760  aligns with the compartment  705  to be unloaded at step  955 . At step  960 , the computer sends instructions to the motor controllers controlling the upper carrier track motor  440 , lower carrier track motor  445 , and the carrier carriage motor  470  to position the carrier  400  such that the extendable member  481  is generally aligned with the opening in the second flat surface  760  that corresponds to the compartment  705  to be unloaded. At step  970 , the medication container in the delivery container compartment  705  that is closest to the carrier is pulled out of the delivery container compartment  705  and onto the carrier  400 . To retrieve each medication container from the delivery container  700 , the extendable member motor  486  is rotated in a first direction, causing extendable member  481  to uncoil and extend beneath the container engaging surfaces  480  and into the opening in the second flat surface  760  associated with the delivery container compartment  705 . When the first flipper end  487  has reached the end of the medication container in the delivery container compartment  705  that is furthest from the carrier  400 , flipper  482  is actuated to rotate about the first flipper end  487  in a first direction until flipper  482  forms an approximately 90 degree angle to extendable member  481 . The extendable member motor  486  is then rotated in a second direction, causing extendable member  481  to retract, and causing flipper  482  to engage a surface of the container in the delivery container compartment  705  that is furthest from the carrier  400 , pulling the container toward the carrier  400 . As the medication container furthest from the carrier  400  is pulled toward the carrier  400 , each additional container situated between the furthest container and the carrier  400  is also pulled toward the carrier  400 . This motion of the extendable member  481  continues until a sensor indicates that a container is situated on the container engaging surfaces  480 . At this point, flipper  482  is actuated to rotate about the first flipper end  487  in a second direction until flipper  482  is generally parallel to extendable member  481  and can pass beneath the container engaging surfaces  480 . 
         [0085]    At step  975 , the barcode of the medication container on the carrier  400  is scanned by a barcode reader as the medication package is rotated on the carrier  400 . The barcode reader communicates the barcode to the computer. Each medication sold has a unique barcode displayed on the medication packaging. Equipped with the barcode, the computer can query the central database to determine the type of medication, quantity of medication, the dimensions of the packaging, and other information associated with the unique barcode and stored in the central database. The computer identifies a compartment  220  in the inventory storage container  20  that can accommodate the newly added medication. 
         [0086]    At step  980 , the medication container being held on the carrier  400  is placed into an inventory storage container compartment  220  chosen by the computer. The carrier  400  is moved such that the extendable member  481  is generally aligned with the channel  221  of the chosen inventory storage container compartment  220 . The extendable member motor  486  is rotated as needed to position second flipper end  488  near the end of the container on the carrier  400  that is furthest from the inventory storage container compartment  220 . Flipper  482  is then actuated to rotate about the first flipper end  487  in a first direction until flipper  482  forms an approximately 90 degree angle to extendable member  481 . The extendable member motor  486  can then be rotated in a first direction, causing extendable member  481  to extend beneath the container engaging surfaces  480 , and causing flipper  482  to engage the surface of the container on the carrier  400  that is furthest from the inventory storage container compartment  220 , pushing the container toward the inventory storage container compartment  220 . As the container on the carrier  400  is pushed into the inventory storage container compartment  220 , any containers already disposed within the inventory storage container compartment  220  are pushed further into the inventory storage container compartment  220  to accommodate the container being pushed off the carrier  400 . This motion of the extendable member  481  continues until a sensor indicates that the flipper  482  has reached the edge of the inventory storage container compartment  220 , indicating that the container has been positioned entirely in the inventory storage container compartment  220 . At this point, the extendable member motor  486  is rotated in a second direction, causing the extendable member  481  to retract, until flipper  482  can rotate without interfering with containers in the inventory storage container compartment  220 . Flipper  482  is then actuated to rotate about the first flipper end  487  in a second direction until flipper  482  is generally parallel to extendable member  481  and can pass beneath the container engaging surfaces  480 . 
         [0087]    At step  985 , the type and location within the inventory storage container  20  of the newly added medication is communicated to and stored in data storage components installed on the computer, and the type and location data may also be communicated and stored by the computer in the centralized database. 
         [0088]    The method  950  proceeds by repeating steps  960 ,  970 ,  975 ,  980 , and  985  until all medications have been removed from the compartment  705  in the delivery container  700  and placed in the inventory storage container  20 . Steps  955 ,  960 ,  970 ,  975 ,  980 , and  985  are repeated until all compartments  705  of the delivery container  700  have been emptied and all medications stored in the delivery container  700  have been placed in the inventory storage container  20 . Once the second flat surface  760  has been rotated 360 degrees, the openings in the second flat surface  760  have aligned sequentially with each compartment  705  in the delivery container  700 , allowing the delivery container  700  to be completely unloaded with one rotation of the second flat surface  760 . 
         [0089]    In one embodiment, each inventory storage container compartment  220  contains a single type of medication. In other embodiments, each inventory storage container compartment  220  may contain multiple types of medication. For example, infrequently used medications may be stored behind more frequently used medications. Such placement avoids dedicating an entire compartment  220  to infrequently used medications while allowing frequently used medications to be accessed quickly. Resorting and optimizing of inventory can be done during otherwise idle time. Any free compartment  220  can be used to temporarily store paid for and labeled medications. 
         [0090]    As shown in  FIG. 16 , a method  1000  for dispensing medications begins at step  1005  in which a user logs in to the apparatus  1  by entering identifying information via the input device  100 . The computer transmits the entered identifying information to the centralized database to verify if the user is authorized to refill prescriptions using the apparatus  1 . 
         [0091]    If the computer determines from information stored in the centralized database that the user is authorized to use apparatus  1 , then the computer queries the centralized database to determine if the user has a valid prescription at step  1010 . If the user has a valid prescription, the centralized database communicates the original prescription to the computer, and the method proceeds to step  1015  in which the computer queries the centralized database to determine if the requested medication is stored in the inventory storage container  20 . Once a user selects to use a particular apparatus  1 , a hold is placed on the requested medication at the centralized database. If the requested medication is not available from the apparatus  1 , the unavailability is communicated to the user via the input device  100 , and the transaction may be terminated. The computer may also query the centralized database to determine what other medications the user has filled to determine of any drug interactions that may occur if the patient takes the newly prescribed medication. If a drug interaction is determined, then a message indicating the drug interaction is communicated to the pharmacist for verification. 
         [0092]    If the requested medication is available from the apparatus  1 , then the method proceeds to step  1020  in which the computer communicates instructions to the motor controllers controlling the upper carrier track motor  440 , lower carrier track motor  445 , and the carrier carriage motor  470  to position the carrier  400  such that the extendable member  481  is generally aligned with the storage container compartment channel  221  that corresponds to the inventory storage container compartment  220  where the requested medication is stored. 
         [0093]    At step  1030 , the medication container in the storage container compartment  220  that is closest to the carrier is pulled out of the storage container compartment  220  and onto the carrier  400 . To retrieve the medication container from the storage container  20 , the extendable member motor  486  is rotated in a first direction, causing extendable member  481  to uncoil and extend beneath the container engaging surfaces  480  and into the storage container compartment channel  221  corresponding to the storage container compartment  220  that contains the medication container to be retrieved. When the first flipper end  487  has reached the end of the medication container in the storage container compartment  220  that is furthest from the carrier  400 , flipper  482  is actuated to rotate about the first flipper end  487  in a first direction until flipper  482  forms an approximately 90 degree angle to extendable member  481 . The extendable member motor  486  is then rotated in a second direction, causing extendable member  481  to retract, and causing flipper  482  to engage a surface of the container in the storage container compartment  220  that is furthest from the carrier  400 , pulling the container toward the carrier  400 . As the medication container furthest from the carrier  400  is pulled toward the carrier  400 , each additional container disposed between the furthest container and the carrier  400  is also pulled toward the carrier  400 . This motion of the extendable member  481  continues until a sensor indicates that a container is situated on the container engaging surfaces  480 . At this point, flipper  482  is actuated to rotate about the first flipper end  487  in a second direction until flipper  482  is generally parallel to extendable member  481  and can pass beneath the container engaging surfaces  480 . If multiple types of medication are stored in the storage container compartment  220  where the medication container to be retrieved is stored, then the retrieved container may be placed in another storage container compartment  220 , and step  1030  repeated until the desired medication container has been pulled onto the carrier  400 . 
         [0094]    At step  1035 , the barcode reader reads the barcode from the retrieved medication package as the medication is rotated on the carrier  400 , and the barcode reader communicates the barcode to the computer. An image of the medication package may also be captured as the medication is rotated, and the image may be communicated to the computer. 
         [0095]    At step  1040 , the computer compares the barcode read by the barcode reader to the barcode that corresponds to the requested medication. If the barcode read by the barcode reader does not match the expected barcode that corresponds to the requested medication, the medication package is discarded through a discard chute, and steps  1015 ,  1020 ,  1030 ,  1035 , and  1040  are repeated until the correct medication is retrieved or the computer indicates that the requested medication is not present in the apparatus  1 . 
         [0096]    If the barcode read by the barcode reader matches the expected barcode for the requested medication, the method proceeds to step  1045  in which the computer communicates instructions to the label printer  800  for printing a label containing patient information such as the patient&#39;s name and dosage instructions. A QR code may also be included on the label to enable the user to obtain more information using software running on their personal cell phone or other device. The printed label extends from the label printer  800 . In order to move the printed label from the label printer  800  to the container on the carrier  400 , the labeler carriage  870  is moved along the rail  850  until the labeler  871  is generally aligned with the printed label on the label printer  800 . The labeler  871  is rotated around its first end such that the labeler  871  is placed in its lowered position near the printed label on the label printer  800 . The one or more fans  872  are powered, causing air to pass from the second side of the labeler  871  to the first side of the labeler  871 ; thus causing the non-adhesive side of the label to temporarily cling to the labeler  871 . Labeler  871  is then rotated about its first end to its raised position, and the labeler  871  is moved along the rail until the labeler  871  and printed label are generally aligned with the container being held on the carrier  400 . The labeler  871  is then rotated around its first end such that the labeler  871  is placed in its lowered position, and the adhesive side of the label engages the container on the carrier  400 . The container on the carrier  400  may be rotated to wrap the label around the container; thus fully adhering the label to the container. 
         [0097]    At step  1046 , one or more images of the medication packaging may be captured by the camera as the medication packaging is rotated on the carrier  400 . In one embodiment, an image of the medication packaging is captured both before and after the label is adhered to the medication packaging. The captured images may be communicated to the computer and to the centralized database. 
         [0098]    At step  1050 , the computer communicates the original prescription, the image of the unlabeled medication packaging, and the image of the labeled packaging to the centralized database. The centralized database notifies the pharmacist that there is a prescription that needs to be verified. The pharmacist views the original prescription and the images pertaining to the pending prescription, and approves or rejects dispensing of the medication based on a visual inspection of the medication. Prior to approving release of the container of medication to the user, the pharmacist may match one or more of the drug product (e.g. as determined by viewing the images of the labeled and unlabeled medication container), the National Drug Code (NDC) for the medication, the label that has been applied to the container of medication, and the prescription. If the pharmacist rejects dispensing the medication, then a message is displayed to the user via input device  100 . If the pharmacist approves dispensing the medication, the user is prompted via the input device  100  to enter payment information using a magnetic strip reader or other payment input means, and the method proceeds to step  1060  in which the medication is placed in the dispensing chute  830 , and the user may access the dispensed medication through the dispensing window  840 . In another embodiment, the dispensed medication may be placed in a locked holding area in the apparatus  1  and made available to the user following further authentication. If a dispensed medication will not be available immediately, the input device  100  will display an estimate of how much time remains before the dispensed medication will be available, and will request a phone number for the purpose of sending a text message to the user when the dispensed medication is ready to pick up. 
         [0099]    To facilitate use of the apparatus  1  to dispense a prescription, in one embodiment a recorded message may play on the input device  100  to encourage users to touch the touchscreen or otherwise begin interacting with the apparatus  1 . The recorded message may feature an image of a welcoming character to put the user at ease with using the apparatus  1 , and in one embodiment the appearance of the character may change depending on the language option that the user chooses. In another embodiment, the character that appears may be an image of the user&#39;s doctor. The message may provide step-by-step instructions to guide the user through using the apparatus  1  to dispense a medication. The use of a recorded message and welcoming image is intended to make the user comfortable with using the apparatus  1 , and is advantageous because it may prevent the user from calling a pharmacist to complete the transaction. 
         [0100]    Instructions for calling a pharmacist for a consultation may be provided via the input device  100 . In one embodiment, the user may be instructed of a phone number to call via the input device  100 . In another embodiment, the user may provide a phone number for a pharmacist to call for a consultation. 
         [0101]    Data stored in the centralized database may be used to recognize trends in dispensing data, and to anticipate what types of medications may be required in a particular apparatus. For example, trend data may indicate when flu medications should be distributed to installations of the apparatus  1  in advance of flu season. To facilitate medications that are refilled regularly, the apparatus  1  may be pre-stocked to ensure that the refill medications are available when the user is likely to refill the prescription. Centralized storage of data also provides for the ability to provide data to users using remote software, for example an application running on a cell phone or similar device. The remote software may allow a user to identify the installation of the apparatus  1  nearest to their geographic location that contains all medications the user requires. 
         [0102]    By coordinating through the centralized database, it is possible to use web-based and application based programs to locate the best apparatus  1  from a user&#39;s current location and to place a hold on a medication, provide payment, etc. For example, the application may rank apparatus  1  locations based on proximity to the user, availability of requested medications, or other user-specified criteria. To limit the space consumed by on-hold prepaid items, either through normal interaction or web interface, a technician can move the product from the apparatus  1  to a lock box. Access to the lock box is controlled by the apparatus  1 . 
         [0103]    Many modifications and other embodiments of the invention will come to mind to one skilled in the art to which this invention pertains having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and the associated drawings. Therefore, it is to be understood that the invention is not to be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed and that modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation.