Patent ID: 7428447

Claim:
An item distribution system comprising: an automated dispenser that is adapted for dispensing items from a storage cartridge that is adapted to be selectively rolled into and out of operable engagement with said automated dispenser; an inventory server that is adapted to receive information from said dispenser via a communications network; and a weighing mechanism positioned to measure a storage cartridge weight when said storage cartridge is in operable engagement with said dispenser, said storage cartridge weight comprising a weight of said storage cartridge and a weight of one or more items stored within said storage cartridge, wherein: said inventory server is adapted to receive said storage cartridge weight from said dispenser via said communications network; said automated dispenser is adapted for dispensing laundered items from said storage cartridge; and said item distribution system is adapted to use said storage cartridge weight to forecast the amount of dirty laundry that will be received from a medical facility with which the automated dispenser is associated.