WO2020079689A1

WO2020079689A1 - Domestic automatic dispenser for medications, food additives and supplements

Info

Publication number: WO2020079689A1
Application number: PCT/IL2019/051124
Authority: WO
Inventors: Leonid PIROGOVSKY; Hai BEN SIMHON
Original assignee: Vsm 4 Me Ltd
Priority date: 2018-10-18
Filing date: 2019-10-17
Publication date: 2020-04-23

Abstract

The subject matter discloses a dispending device for dispensing edible products, comprising a base, multiple product containers coupled to the base, each product container of the multiple product containers is configured to dispense another edible product, a distribution tray coupled to the base, for dispensing the edible products, a funnel coupled to the base for conveying the edible products from the multiple product containers to the distribution tray, said funnel forms a slope downwards towards the distribution tray and a vibration unit secured to the funnel for generating vibrations required for conveying the edible products along the funnel.

Description

DOMESTIC AUTOMATIC DISPENSER FOR MEDICATIONS, FOOD ADDITIVES AND

SUPPLEMENTS

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention generally relates to automatic dispensers and more particularly to automatic dispensers for domestic usage.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Medications and food supplements (or dietary supplements) are products intended to treat or preventing diseases and supplement the diet of a consumer. A medication and/or food supplement can provide the essential ingredients which either extracted from food sources or synthetically made in a lab. Examples for medications comprise recombinant proteins, vaccines, blood products (such as IVIG), gene therapy, and cell therapy. Examples for food supplements comprise vitamins, minerals, dietary fibers, fatty acids and amino acids. In the United States and Canada, in a similar manner to medications, dietary supplements are considered a subset of foods, and are also regulated accordingly by the FDA. Most of the medications and food supplements today are sold in a form of pills, capsules, tablets, powders or liquids in multiple dosage forms. These medications and food supplements are typically purchased in a sealed medication-like container. Currently, the consumers are consuming medications and food supplements in an almost completely manual form. The medications and food supplements are purchased and consumed in a manual fashion. In such manual fashions, a customer may purchase the desired medication and/or food supplement and consume the desired amount of medication and/or food supplement by opening the container of the medication and/or food supplement, taking out the desired dose stored within the container and consume the taken dose.

The aforementioned manual method of distribution of medications and food supplements may arise several challenges for the consumer. Such challenges can be compliance and adherence with the consumer needs, safe usage, safe storage, inventory management, child resistance, ease of use, and the like. For example, one problem may be that wrong medications and/or food supplements or wrong dosages thereof may be consumed due to human error of the consumer. Such human error may potentially cause dietary issues and even health complications. Another problem with manual distribution methods is that the containers of the medications and/or food supplements may be stored in bad conditions. In some cases, bad storage conditions over time can cause loss of potency of active ingredients of the medication and/or food supplements and even complete inactivity or even be harmful thereof. For example, Omega-3 is known in the art as a food supplement which may be oxidized quickly in bad storage conditions and may have reduced activity when oxidized. Impurities that can be developed in the bad storage conditions can have bad effect on one's health. Furthermore, manually consuming medications and/or food supplements may be harmful to the consumer in case a counterfeit medication and/or food supplement was purchased or in case two medications and/or food supplements that are consumed together may comprise harmful interaction.

The biggest problem that we solve is the compliance and the adherence to the prescription or the predefined regimen by the manufacturer, the health professional or any other relevant function

In view of the above-mentioned problems of the manual method of medications and/or food supplements distribution, there is a need for an automatic method of distributing medications and/or food supplements to consumers to prevent or mitigate such problems from occurring.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention discloses an automatic dispensing device for oral solid dosage form. In some cases, the oral solid dosage form can be such as medicines, food additives, supplements, and the like. The dispensing device is designed to dispense such oral solid dosage forms provided in multiple dosage forms including inter alia, pills, tablets, capsules, soft gels, and the like. The automatic dispensing device is adapted to store, manage inventory and dispense oral solid dosage forms to consumers. The automatic dispensing device can be configured to dispense products of oral solid dosage forms such as dietary supplement, nutrients, micronutrients, minerals, pharmaceuticals, medicines, and the like, in a predetermined amount associated with a consumer. The automatic dispensing device comprises a dispensing mechanism comprising at least one single dispenser configured to be mounted on a bracket of the dispensing mechanism. Such a bracket may be a layout of at least one single dispenser, wherein the single dispensers are mounted horizontally and/or vertically to the bracket, and wherein the single dispensers are positioned in parallel, one next to the other adjacent single dispensers. In some embodiments of the present invention, the automatic dispensing device may comprise two brackets, wherein one bracket is placed against the other bracket. In such cases, the brackets mounting the single dispensers may form two lines of single dispensers, one line situated against the other line. In some cases, single dispensers can dispense different type of products such as pills, medicine, pharmaceuticals, food additives and/or supplements and the like.

The single dispensers may comprise a product extraction unit designed to facilitate the dispensing flow conducted by the single dispenser. The terms“product” and“products” as mentioned herein depicts edible materials and medication in an oral dosage form, which are intended to be consumed by a consumer. The products may comprise medications, dietary supplements, medical foods, vitamins, nutrients, micronutrients, food additives, candy and the like. The products may be provided in varied form factors such as pills, tablets, capsules, soft gels, and other small articles with dimensions that fit oral consumption. In some cases, the products dispensed by the automatic dispensing device may be uniformly sized or variable sized articles. In some cases, the size of the oral solid dosage forms may vary in the range of 5 to 25 millimeters. In some cases, the dispensed products may be contained in one or more containers (hereinafter “product containers”) designed to be placed within the automatic dispensing device for the purpose of supplying the products that are stored within the products container by the automatic dispensing device.

The product extraction unit may be adapted to enable passage of a product from a product container mounted at the top and on the upper part of the single dispenser, through a hollow body designed to convey the flow of the product, down a conveyer opening positioned at a bottom side of the product extraction unit. The conveyer opening of the single adapters may be attached to a conveyer unit configured to receive products from the product extraction unit, via the conveyer opening, and convey the received product into a conveyer tunnel. The conveyer tunnel is configured to enable the received products to travel outwards from the conveyer unit into a dispensing funnel which in some cases may be situated below the dispensing opening. In some cases, the conveyer tunnel is defined with a conveyer angle, configured to enable the conveying unit to separate the received products for conveying a single product each time.

In some embodiments of the present invention, the automatic dispensing device can be adapted to comprise casing designed to contain the dispensing mechanism in a comprehensive manner and provide the required interfaces for a consumer utilizing the dispensing mechanism. In some cases, the casing is configured to isolate the dispensing mechanism located within the casing from the environment outside of the casing. In such cases, the casing can protect the dispensing mechanism from environmental harms which can damage or affect the activity level of the products stored at the automatic dispensing device.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

Some embodiments of the invention are herein described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings. With specific reference now to the drawings in detail, it is stressed that the particulars shown are by way of example and for purposes of illustrative discussion of embodiments of the invention. In this regard, the description taken with the drawings makes apparent to those skilled in the art how embodiments of the invention may be practiced.

In the drawings:

Fig. 1 shows an overview of an automatic dispensing device, according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention;

Fig. 2 discloses a dispensing mechanism, according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention;

Fig. 3 discloses a single dispenser of the dispensing mechanism, according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention;

Fig. 4A discloses an exploded view of the adapter unit of the single dispenser and a product container, according to Fig. 3;

Fig. 4B discloses a top view of the adapter unit of the single dispenser and a product container, according to Fig. 4 A;

Fig. 4C shows a top perspective view of the adapter unit of the single dispenser, according to Figs. 4 A and 4B;

Fig. 4D discloses a vertical cross-section view of the adapter unit of the single dispenser, according to Figs. 4 A, 4B and 4C;

Figs. 5A-5B disclose the product extraction unit of the single dispenser mechanism, according to Fig. 3;

Fig. 6A discloses the extraction mechanism of the product extraction unit at a bottom position, according to Fig. 5 A and 5B

Fig. 6B shows the product extraction unit with the extraction mechanism at a top position, according to Fig. 6 A; Fig. 7A disclose the conveyer unit of the single dispenser, according to Fig. 3;

Fig. 7B shows a horizontal cross section C-C of the conveyer unit, according to Fig. 7A;

Fig. 7C discloses the front section of the conveyer unit of the, according to Figs 7A and 7B;Fig. 7D shows a dispensing door of the conveyer unit positioned upwardly, according to Figs 7 A, 7B and 7C;

Fig. 7E shows a front view of the conveyer unit, according to Fig’s. 7A 7B, 7C and 7D;

Fig. 8A disclose the a funneling unit of the dispensing mechanism, according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention;

Fig. 8B discloses the rear funnel of the funneling unit of the dispensing mechanism, according to Fig. 8 A;

Fig. 9 discloses the brackets of the dispensing mechanism, according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention; and,

Figure 10 schematically shows components of the automatic dispensing device, according to exemplary embodiments of the subject matter.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present invention discloses an automatic dispensing device for regular intake products. In possible embodiment of the present invention, the automatic dispensing device is designed for storing, managing inventory and dispensing edible products. The term“edible product” or “product” used herein refers to capsules, pills, raw material and additional forms that can be consumed by persons by swallowing. In some cases, the product may be stored in the original containers thereof. In some cases, each product container contains only one type of product in a unitary form. The terms“inventory” as mentioned herein depicts the products and the product containers stored in the automatic dispensing device comprising products inside product containers and products which can be extracted from the product containers and were not dispensed yet.

The mark“F” as appear in some of the figures accompanied by an arrow, determines the front side of the automatic dispensing device. The right side, the left side, and the rear side of the automatic dispensing device are determined based on the aforementioned front side. The top side is situated above the front side of the automatic dispensing device and the bottom side is situated below the front side of the automatic dispensing device.

Fig. 1 shows an overview of an automatic dispensing device, according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention. Fig. 1, shows an automatic dispensing device 100 adapted to store, manage inventory and dispense products to consumers. The automatic dispensing device 100 can be configured to dispense oral dosage form of products such as dietary supplements, pharmaceuticals, food supplements, nutrients, micronutrients, minerals, and the like, in a predetermined amount associated with a consumer. The automatic dispensing device 100 comprises a dispensing mechanism 130 designed to store and dispense the products. The automatic dispensing device 100 is adapted to comprise casing such a casing 110 designed to contain the dispensing mechanism 130 in a comprehensive manner and provide the required interfaces for a consumer utilizing the dispensing mechanism 130.

In some cases, the casing 110 is configured to isolate the dispensing mechanism 130 located within the casing 110 from the environment outside of the casing 110. In such cases, the casing 110 can protect the products stored at the automatic dispensing device 100 from environmental harms. Such environmental harms may be levels of humidity, light, temperature and other environmental harms which can impact the effectiveness of the products stored therein. In some cases, the casing 110 is designed to be opened only for maintenance of the dispensing mechanism 130 or for replenishing the products stored therein. Thus, the products can be kept inside their original containers, in which stability studies were performed and close to the manufacturer specifications and thereby preventing impurities and assuring the efficacy and maintaining the quality of the products.

In some embodiments of the present invention, the casing 110 may be formed in a box- like, spherical-like or any other closed shape defining an inner side and an outer side. In some cases, the casing 110 is adapted to be situated upon a surface such as a table. In some cases, it is desirable that the material forming the casing 110 shall possess anti-static properties and a UV- filtering capacity, which can extend the shelf life of the products stored within the automatic dispensing device 100. The casing 110 may be made from a non-brittle, anti-static, fire retardant and environment-friendly plastic that does not undergo decomposition processes, which in some cases can cause to a gas release or other materials with environment harming potential. For example, the casing 110 can be formed and designed from materials which do not release gases in case of a fire. In some cases, the casing 110 may provide ultra-violet (UV) and solar radiation filtration to protect the products stored within the casing 110 from UV and solar radiation exposure. The solar radiation filtration may also prevent heat buildup inside the casing 110. Such a heat buildup can potentially harm or damage the products. For example, the casing 110 may be formed from a modified copolymer material, which is a tough, non-brittle and bio-friendly plastic.

In some cases, the casing 110 may be comprised of two or more casing parts, adapted to be connected to each other. Such a connection may be by screws, bolts, magnets, adhesive material, and the like. In some cases, the two or more casing parts may be disassembled in order to maintain the interior of the casing 110, for example, cleaning operations. In some cases, the casing 110 of the automatic dispensing device 100 comprises a front casing part 111 which may the part of the casing 110 placed in one side of the lateral axis 161, at the direction pointed by arrow 162A. The casing 110 of the automatic dispensing device 100 also comprises a rear casing part 112 (semitransparent in Fig. 1) placed at the other side of the lateral axis 161, at the direction pointed by arrow 162B. In some cases, the front casing part 111 may cover the front side, the bottom side and at least a portion of the left and right sides of the automatic dispensing device 100. The rear casing part 112 may cover the top side, the rear side and at least a portion of the right and left sides. In some cases, the front casing part 111 is shaped as a hemisphere and wherein a flat base 115 is situated at the bottom side of the front casing part 111. In such cases, the flat base 115 is configured to hold the dispensing mechanism 130 on the inner surface of the flat base 115 and is further configured to receive connecting elements such as bolts for securing the dispensing mechanism 130 to the flat base 115. In some cases, the front casing part 111 comprises, a first front opening 116 and a second front opening 118 situated positioned at the front side of the front casing part 111. In such cases, the first front opening 116 may comprise an interface panel 117 for providing options to the consumer for controlling the dispensed doses, configure some dispensing options, and the like. For example, a consumer may be allowed to insert a consumer ID, date, and time to the automatic dispensing device 100 for reserving the required dose of products or product the consumer is planned to intake. The first front opening 116 may also comprise a second front opening 118 which may be configured to accommodate a distribution tray 119 from which the consumer can take products prepared by the automatic dispensing device 100. For example, the dispensing mechanism 130 located within the casing 110 is configured to dispense products stored in the dispensing mechanism 130 into the distribution tray 119.

In some cases, the interface panel 117 comprises a user interface 120 and a barcode reader 121. The user interface 120 may comprise an electronic display device configured to display instructions and information for a consumer utilizing the automatic dispensing device 100. For example, the user interface 120 can be configured to display to a consumer utilizing the automatic dispensing device 100 information on the dose currently being prepared by the automatic dispensing device 100. In some cases, the user interface 120 may display information regards the dispensing process. In some cases, the user interface 120 is configured to receive input from the consumer utilizing the automatic dispensing device 100. For example, the consumer may utilize the user interface 120 for requesting information regarding expiration dates and the environmental conditions inside the automatic dispensing device 100. In some cases, the user interface 120 may comprise a touchscreen, a keyboard or side buttons and the like.

In some cases, the barcode reader 121 may be used to verify and/or validate the product containers that are intended to be stored in the automatic dispensing device 100. The barcode reader 121 may scan a barcode located on each product container before insertion of the product container into the automatic dispensing machine. The information received from the scan may be used to determine the identity and/or authenticity of the products inside the product containers. Such information may be used to prevent consumption of fake products and to prevent possible drug interaction. In some embodiments of the present invention, the distribution tray 119 may be designed as a tray with a front handle for enabling the consumer to easily insert the distribution and taking out the distribution tray 119 to and from the second front opening 118.

In some cases, a moveable lid 124 is connected to the rear casing part 112. In some cases, the moveable lid 124 is connected via arms 125 A and 125B to a left and a right lateral hinges respectively. In such cases, the left lateral hinge (not shown) may be connected to the inner left side of the rear casing part 112, and the right lateral hinge 126B may be connected to the inner right side of the rear casing part 112. The arms 125 A and 125B are configured to be pivoted clockwise around the left and a right lateral hinges and thereby place the moveable lid 124 in an open position exposing the dispensing mechanism 130 outwardly. The configuration of the arms 125 A and 125B can also allow the arms 125 A and 125B to be pivoted counter clockwise around the left and a right lateral hinges and thereby to place the moveable lid 124 in a close position which covers the dispensing mechanism 130. In some embodiments of the present invention, the moveable lid 124 may be configured to move between a closed position and an open position.

In some cases, the moveable lid 124 may be configured to seal the casing 110 of the automatic dispensing device 100 in case the moveable lid 124 is positioned in the closed position and enable access to the dispensing mechanism 130 in case the moveable lid 124 is positioned in the open position. In some cases, the moveable lid 124 may be at least partly formed of a transparent material for enable vision of the dispensing mechanism 130 to the consumer.

Fig. 2 discloses a dispensing mechanism, according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention. Fig. 2 shows a dispensing mechanism 200 designed to reside within the casing (not shown) of the automatic dispensing device. The dispensing mechanism 200 comprises at least one bracket, with at least one dispenser mounted on each of the at least one bracket. In some embodiments of the present invention, the dispensing mechanism 200 comprises two brackets. The dispensing mechanism 200 comprises a rear bracket 220B which may be a firm and curved segment facing the rear side of the automatic dispensing device (not shown) and comprises rear dispensers 261, 262, 263, 264, and 265. The term“bracket” used herein depicts a structure designed to support objects mounted directionally on the structure. Rear product containers 230, 231, 232, 233, and 234 are connected to the rear dispensers 261, 262, 263, 264, and 265 respectively. The rear dispensers 261, 262, 263, 264, and 265 are positioned in a row standing vertically to a horizontal axis 225 A. The dispensing mechanism 200 also comprises a front bracket 220A which may be a firm and curved segment facing the front side of the automatic dispensing device and comprises front dispensers (from which only front dispenser 266 is shown). Front product containers 235, 236, 237, 238, and 239 are connected to the front dispensers in a similar manner to the way the rear product containers 230, 231, 232, 233, and 234 and rear dispensers 261, 262, 263, 264, and 265 are connected. The front dispensers are positioned in a row standing vertically to the horizontal axis 225A. In some embodiments of the present invention, the dispensing mechanism 200 may be designed to comprise one or more brackets, wherein the brackets can be situated vertically to each other.

The dispensing mechanism 200 may also comprises a base 210 and a control unit 250. In some cases, the base 210 of the dispensing mechanism 200 is configured to be attached to an inner surface of a casing of the automatic dispensing device for supporting the dispensing mechanism 200. In some cases, the base 210 is connected to the casing of the automatic dispensing device by at least one connector, such as a screw, bolt, magnet or the like. In some cases, the base 210 is made from a non-brittle resilient plastic for providing a durable connection between the dispensing mechanism 200 and the automatic dispensing device. The base 210 may comprise base apertures, such as base aperture 211 and/or base protrusions, such as base protrusion 212, situated thereon. In such cases, some parts of the dispensing mechanism 200 in addition to the base 210 may be directly attached to the base 210 via the base apertures and/or base protrusions.

In some embodiments of the present invention, the brackets of the dispensing mechanism 200 are configured to mount one or more dispensers. In some cases, each bracket of the dispensing mechanism 200 may mount a different number of dispensers. As shown in Fig. 2, the front bracket 220 A and the rear bracket 220B are connected to the base 210 via bracket apertures, such as bracket apertures 221 A and 221B. Further elaborations about the structure of the brackets 220 are detailed in Fig. 9.

In some embodiments of the present invention, the dispensers (both front and rear dispensers) of the dispensing mechanism 200 may be configured to convey the products located within the product containers that are connected to the dispensers and pass the product on to a funneling unit 240. In some cases, the dispensers may be mounted on the brackets in a certain position, such that a certain side of the dispensers faces the bracket. In some cases, the dispensers are configured to convey products from the front dispenser surface 266 thereof and into the funneling unit 240. In such cases, the rear dispensers 261, 262, 263, 264, and 265 are configured to convey products towards the rear side of the dispensing mechanism 200 and the front dispensers (such as front dispenser 266), are configured to convey products towards the front side of the dispensing mechanism 200. Further elaborations about the dispensers are detailed in Figs. 5A-5B and 6A-6B.

In some embodiments of the present invention, the funneling unit 240 is situated underneath the dispensers and configured to receive and convey products to a distribution tray (not shown). In some cases, the funneling unit 240 comprises a front funnel (not shown) and a rear funnel 240B. In some cases, the front funnel may be situated underneath the front dispensers (such as front dispenser 266), and the rear funnel 240B may be situated underneath the rear dispensers 261, 262, 263, 264, and 265. In some cases, the rear funnel 240B is connected to the front funnel and configured to convey products received by the rear funnel 240B towards the front funnel. In some cases, the front funnel comprises a funnel drain situated above the distribution tray and is dimensioned for enabling products that are received in the funneling unit 240 to pass through the funnel drain into the distribution tray. Further elaborations about the funneling unit 240 are detailed in Fig. 9. In some embodiments of the present invention, the control unit 250 is configured to manage the inventory and control the distribution of products in the automatic dispensing device. In some cases, the control unit 250 is connected to the base 210, and in further cases, is connected to the rear side of the base. In some cases, the control unit 250 may be in communication with the dispensers. Also, the control unit 250 may be in communication with other electrical device of the automatic dispensing device, such as the user interface and the barcode reader on the interface panel. In some cases, the control unit 250 may comprise an internal power source such as a battery or means for connecting to an external power. For example, a power cable may extend from the control unit 250 and through the casing of the automatic dispensing device and may be configured to be connected to a power socket.

In some embodiments of the present invention, the control unit 250 comprises a processor, a memory and a communication module enabling the control unit to communicate with a remote server. In some cases, the control unit 250 may be configured to exchange data with a consumer, receive and store the received data. For example, the control unit may receive subscriptions for dosages of products and times of distributions by the consumer. The data may be received by a user interface located at the front casing element (such as the user interface of Fig. 1), or received from a remote server by wired or wireless communication or received from mobile device by Bluetooth or any other protocol. Such a wired or wireless communication may be associated with a telecommunication network such internet, cellular network, and the like.

In some cases, the control unit 250 is further configured to operate the automatic dispensing device for dispensing products from the product connecters connected to the dispensers. Also, the control unit may be configured to manage the inventory of stored products inside the automatic dispensing device. In some cases, the control unit 250 is configured to track the environmental conditions inside the automatic dispensing device. For example, environmental conditions may comprise: temperature, humidity and the like. In one exemplary case, the control unit 250 may be configured to maintain a temperature of 25 degrees Celsius, and humidity of 10% inside the automatic dispensing device. The control unit 250 may be further configured to change the environmental conditions inside the automatic dispensing device for maintaining optimal conditions for the stored products.

In some cases, the control unit 250 is configured to receive barcode information. In some cases, the barcode information may be received from a barcode reader. In such cases, the control unit 250 may process the received barcode information and determine whether a product represented by the received barcode information may be used by the consumer. In some cases, the processing may be based on predetermined settings entered by the consumer and stored in the control unit. In some cases, the settings may comprise the source of the product, a check for prevention of harmful drug interactions, inventory considerations and the like. In such exemplary cases, the control unit 250 can be configured to compare the received barcode information of the product containers with data stored in the control unit 250 or with data stored in a remote server. In other cases, the received barcode information may be sent to the remote server for analysis. In such cases, the control unit is configured to transmit the barcode information and to receive instructions from the remote server. Examples for instructions may be: Approval for insertion of the product container, refusal for insertion of the product container and the like. In some cases, the control unit 250 may enable insertion of products that the barcode information thereof was approved by the control unit 250 for storage. In such cases, the control unit 250 may be configured to control the movement of the lid of the casing for enabling the consumer to enter the product container to the dispensing mechanism 200.

In some cases, the control unit 250 may be configured to indicate that one of the product containers is empty and may be replenished. For example, the control unit 250 is configured to light an indication element such as a red led on the dispenser unit that the product container stored thereat is empty. In some cases, the control unit 250 may be configured to indicate that a dispenser is available for storing a new product container thereat. For example, in case a barcode information was approved the control unit may light a green led on a dispenser which is available and suitable for storing the new product.

Fig. 3 discloses a single dispenser of the dispensing mechanism, according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention. Fig. 3 shows a single dispenser 300 of the dispensers of the dispensing mechanism disclosed in Fig. 2. The single dispenser 300 comprises a product container 310 connected by an adapter unit 320 to the single dispenser 300. The single dispenser 300 is configured to be mounted on a bracket of the dispensing mechanism, as aforementioned. The single dispenser 300 is functioning as one dispensing unit of the at least one dispensing unit of the dispensing mechanism disclosed in Fig. 2. The single dispenser 300 is configured to be coupled with the product container 310 and dispense the products stored at the product container 310. The single dispenser 300 is designed to conduct a dispensing flow of products, wherein the dispensing flow initiates by conveying products from the product container 310 and ends by dispensing the conveyed products into a funneling unit (not shown). In some cases, the single dispenser 300 comprises a product extraction unit 330 and a conveyer unit 340.

In some embodiments of the present invention, the product container 310 may be a configured to store a plurality of products 311 therein. In some cases, the product container 310 may comprise an opening configured to receive a lid, which may be attached to and removed from the opening. For example, the product container 310 may be formed in the shape of a bottle. In such exemplary case, threads situated around a neck (not shown) of the product container 310 can be configured to threadedly receive a screw cap with matching threads. An example for the product container 310 may be“HDPE Pharma Line Round Packer” that is manufactured by“Alpha Packaging, Inc”. In some cases, the product container 310 may be at a specific size. For example, the product container 310 maybe at the size of 120 CC’s (Cubic centimeters), 110 CC’s, or any other volume size used for storing the products 311.

In some embodiments of the present invention, the adapter unit 320 may be configured to enable insertion of the product container 310 into the product extraction unit 330. In some cases, the adapter unit 320 is configured to secure the neck of the product container 310 by accommodating the neck of the product container 310 inside the adapter unit 320. For example, the neck of the product container may be threaded into the adapter unit 320. In some cases, the adapter unit 320 may be further configured to be mounted into the product extraction unit 330. In some cases, the adapter unit 320 is formed in an irregular shape to enable the adapter unit 320 to be directionally mounted into the product extraction unit 330 and thereby to facilitate the dispensing flow conducted by the single dispenser 300. The term“irregular shape” disclosed herein depicts closed shapes that comprises sides and angles of any length and size. Further elaborations about the adapter unit 320 are detailed in Figs. 4A-4C.

In some embodiments of the present invention, the product extraction unit 330 is configured to take out products stored at the product container 310 and to convey the products into the conveyer unit 340. In some cases, the product extraction unit 330 may take out products from the product container 310 in cases that the product container 310 is attached to the adapter unit 320 and the adapter unit is situated at the product extraction unit 330. In some cases, the product extraction unit 330 comprises a hollow body 331, an extraction mechanism (not shown) and a drive assembly 350. In some cases, the hollow body 331 comprises a hollow body inner surface (not shown), and a hollow body outer surface 332. In some cases, the hollow body 331 comprises a product extraction unit front side 333 and a product extraction unit rear side 334. In some cases, the extraction mechanism is located at the inner surface of the hollow body 331. In some cases, the hollow body 331 may comprise protrusion elements, configured to enable connectors to fasten/secure the hollow body 331 to the bracket in a steady fashion. For example, protrusion elements 335A and 335B extend vertically from the product extraction unit rear side 334. In such cases, the protrusion elements 335A and 335B may be configured to receive connectors, such as bolts or screws, for fastening the single dispenser 300 at the product extraction unit rear side 334 thereof to a bracket (not shown). In some cases, the hollow body 331 further comprises a front opening 336, located at the product extraction unit front side 333 thereof. In some cases, the front opening 336 may be sealed by a sealing layer 335. In some cases, the sealing layer 335 may comprise a vertical opening 337 located vertically through the length thereof. Thus, the vertical opening 337 enables the sealing layer 335 to be seal the vertical opening 337.

In some embodiments of the present invention, the hollow body 331 may comprise an adapter socket (not shown) configured to fasten the adapter unit 320 in a stable manner. In some cases, the adapter socket may be shaped in an irregular shape corresponding to the irregular shape of the adapter unit 320. In such cases, the adapter socket is adapted to accommodate the adapter unit 320 in a certain position therein.

In some cases, the product extraction unit 330 is configured to enable passage of a product from the product container 310, through the hollow body 331 and down a conveyer opening (not shown) positioned at a bottom side 338 of the product extraction unit 330. Further elaborations about the structure of the product extraction unit 330 are detailed below (in Figs. 5A-5B and 6A- 6B).

In some embodiments of the present invention, the conveyer unit 340 is configured to convey products received from the product extraction unit 330 out of the single dispenser 300 and into the funnel unit (not shown) of the extraction mechanism. In some cases, the conveyer unit 340 is connected to the conveyer opening of the product extraction unit 330. In some embodiments of the present invention, the conveyer unit 340 comprises a conveyer receiving section 342 and a conveyer elongated section 343. In some cases, the conveyer elongated section 343 may extend outwards from the product extraction unit front side 333. In some cases, the conveyer elongated section 343 comprises a dispensing opening (not shown) at a distal end 345 thereof. In some cases, a dispensing door 346 is located at the distal end 345 of the conveyer elongated section 343. In some cases, the conveyer unit 340 further comprises arms 346A and 346B configured to enable the conveyer unit 340 to be secured/mounted to a bracket. Further elaborations about the conveyer unit 340 are detailed below (in Figs. 5A-5B and 6A-6B).

Fig. 4A discloses an exploded view of the adapter unit of the single dispenser and a product container, according to Fig. 3. Fig. 4A shows an adapter unit 400 connected to a product container 410. In some cases, the product container 410 comprises a neck 411 with a product container opening 412 and body 413. In some cases, the adapter unit 400 is formed from an adapter body

420 comprising a container facing side 421 and a dispenser facing side 422. The adapter body 420 may have a cap-like shape. The adapter body 420 further comprises a circumferential wall section 423 and a container entering section 424 extending vertically from the container facing side 421 of the body 420. In some cases, the container entering section 424 is configured to be in contact with the inner surface of the neck 411 and to extend through at least part of the upper section of the neck 411. In some cases, the container entering section 424 comprises a container facing opening 428B situated at the container facing side 421 of the container entering section 424. In some cases, the container facing opening 428B may span about the entire container facing side

421 of the container entering section 424. In some cases, the container facing opening may be shaped as a funnel.

In some cases, the circumferential wall section 423 comprises a skirt section 429 extending vertically downwards from the circumferential wall section 423 towards the container facing side 421. In some cases, the skirt section 429 may be configured to be secured to the outer surface of the neck 411 of the product container 410. In cases that the neck 411 of the product container 410 comprising threads, the skirt section 429 may comprise matching threads. In some cases, the skirt section 429 is dimensioned such that the distance between the skirt section 429 and the container entering section 424 match the thickness of the neck 411 of the product container 410. The container entering section 424 is configured to be threaded into the product container opening 412 and the skirt section 429 of the body 420 is configured to be threaded onto the neck 411, and thereby forming a unified unit. Such a unified unit comprises the adapter unit 400 and the product container 410. In such cases, the unified unit can be mounted on a single dispenser in a steady fashion and facilitate the dispensing flow, as aforementioned. In some embodiments of the present invention, the adapter body 420 may comprise a generally cylindrical shape. In some embodiments of the present invention, the adapter body 420 may be designed in an irregular shape. In some cases, the irregular shape is maintained throughout the entire height of the adapter body 420. In some embodiments of the present invention, the adapter body 420 comprises an extractor facing opening 428A situated at the dispenser facing side 422 and a container facing opening 428B situated at the container facing side 421. In some cases, a tunnel 430 extends towards the length of the cap-like body from the container facing opening 428B towards the extractor facing opening 428A.

Fig. 4B discloses a top view of the adapter unit of the single dispenser and a product container, according to Fig. 4A. Fig. 4B shows the adapter unit 400 from the dispenser facing side 422 of the adapter body 420. The adapter body 420 may be designed in an irregular shape, wherein in some cases, the irregular shape continues along the height of the adapter body 420. In some cases, the irregular shape can be a circle comprising two truncated portions 425a and 425b. The truncated portion 425a and the truncated portion 425b may be positioned at two opposite and parallel ends of the adapter body 420. In some cases, grooves may be situated at the two truncated portions 425a and 425b. In such cases, the grooves are adapted to be connected with a holding matching protrusion located at the adapter socket of the product extraction unit (not shown) and are configured to fasten the adapter unit 400 to the product extraction unit. In some embodiments of the present invention, the adapter body 420 comprises an extractor facing opening 428A situated at the dispenser facing side 422 thereof.

In some embodiments of the present invention, a one-way valve 433 is situated at the extractor facing opening 428A about the center of the dispenser facing side 422 of the adapter body 420. In some cases, the one-way valve 433 comprises stoppers 434A and 434B configured to be pivoted upwards and downwards around hinges into and out from the tunnel 430 and thereby enabling entrance of an extraction mechanism into the tunnel 430 while preventing products from the product container 410 to exit the tunnel 430 without the extraction mechanism.

Fig. 4C shows a top perspective view of the adapter unit of the single dispenser, according to Figs. 4A and 4B. Fig. 4C shows the adapter unit 400 from the container facing side 421 of the adapter body 420. As shown, the container facing opening 428B is located essentially at the center of the container facing side 421 of the container entering section 424. Also, the tunnel 430 extends vertically from the container facing opening 428B, through the container entering section 424 and the adapter body 420 to the dispenser facing side 422. In some cases, the tunnel 430 may comprise a funnel section 431 adjacent to the container facing opening 428B. In some cases, the funnel section 431 is configured to easily direct products into the tunnel 430.

In some cases, two grooves 426a and 426b are situated at the two truncated portions 425a and 425b. In some cases, the two grooves 426a and 426b are adapted to be connected with a holding matching protrusion located at the adapter socket of the product extraction unit (not shown) and are configured to fasten the adapter unit 400 to the product extraction unit.

Fig. 4D discloses a vertical cross-section view of the adapter unit of the single dispenser, according to Figs. 4A, 4B and 4C. Fig. 4D shows the adapter unit 400 connected to the product container 410. In some cases, the product container 410 comprises a neck 411 with a product container opening 412. The adapter unit 400 is formed from an adapter body 420 comprising a container facing side 421 and a dispenser facing side 422. The adapter body 420 further comprises a circumferential wall section 423 and a container entering section 424 extending vertically from the container facing side 421 of the adapter body 420. In some cases, the container entering section 424 is configured to be in contact with the inner surface of the neck 411 and to extend through at least part of the height of the neck 411. In some cases, the container entering section 424 comprises a container facing opening 428B situated at the container facing side 421 of the container entering section 424. In some cases, the container facing opening 428B may span about the entire container facing side 421 of the container entering section 424.

In some cases, the circumferential wall section 423 comprises a skirt section 429 extending vertically downwards from the circumferential wall section 423 towards the container facing side 421. In some cases, the skirt section 429 may be configured to be secured to the outer surface of the neck 411 of the product container 410 and in further cases, extend up to a neck protrusion 411 A, extending vertically out from the neck 411. In cases that the neck 411 of the product container 410 and the internal surface of the skirt section 429 may comprise matching threads. In some cases, the skirt section 429 is shaped such that the distance between the skirt section 429 and the container entering section 424 match the thickness of the neck 411 of the product container 410. In such cases, the container entering section 424 can be configured to be threaded into the product container opening 412. The skirt section 429 can also be configured to be threaded onto the neck 411 and thereby to form a unified unit comprising the adapter unit 400 and the product container 410. As shown, two grooves 426a and 426b can be located at the two truncated portions 425a and 425b. In some cases, the two grooves 426a and 426b are adapted to be connected with a holding matching protrusion located at the adapter socket of the product extraction unit (not shown) and are configured to fasten the adapter unit 400 to the product extraction unit.

In possible embodiments of the present invention, the tunnel 430 can be extended vertically from the container facing opening 428B, through the container entering section 424 and the body 420 to the dispenser facing side 422. In some cases, the tunnel 430 may comprise a funnel section 431 adjacent to the container facing opening 428B. In some cases, the funnel section 431 is configured to easily direct products into the tunnel 430. In some cases, the tunnel 430 may further comprise a storage section 432 adjacent to the extractor facing opening 428A. In some cases, the storage section 432 is configured to house the mechanism of the one-way valve 433.

In some cases, the one-way valve 433 is configured to enable objects to enter the tunnel 430 only from the dispenser facing side 422. In some cases, the one-way valve 433 is also configured to enable object that entered the tunnel 430 from the dispenser facing side 422 to exit the tunnel without letting product inside the product container to drop from the adapter unit 400. In some cases, the one-way valve 433 comprises stoppers 434A and 434B. Stoppers 434A and 434B are configured to be pivoted around right and left lateral hinges into the storage section 432 and thereby enable entrance to the tunnel 430 from the dispenser facing side 422. In some cases, the one-way valve 433 further comprises compression springs (not shown), connected to the stoppers 434A and 434B. The springs are configured to be compressed in cases the stoppers 434A and 434B pivot towards the tunnel 430 and are further configured to apply compression force on the stoppers 434A and 434B and thereby cause the stoppers 434A and 434B to pivot outward from the tunnel 430 and block the entrance to the tunnel 430. In some cases, the stoppers 434A and 434B may be kept pivoted into the tunnel 430 at the storage section 432 and be pressed against the springs. Such cases may occur in case an object is pressing the stoppers 434A and 434B from the dispenser facing side 422. In such exemplary cases, the object prevents the stoppers 434A and 434B from pivoting back around the right and left lateral hinges until the object is removed from the tunnel 430.

Figs. 5A-5B disclose the product extraction unit of the single dispenser, according to Fig. 3. In some embodiments of the present invention, a product extraction unit 500 is configured to take out products from a product container 501 and convey the product through the product extraction unit 500 to a conveying unit (not shown) situated below the product extraction unit 500. In some embodiments of the present invention, the product extraction unit 500 comprises a hollow body 510, an extraction mechanism 530 and a drive assembly 550. In some embodiment, the hollow body is designed as a hollow and elongated cylinder, which forms the internal space of the product extraction unit. The product extraction unit 500 comprises a product extraction unit front side 511 , a product extraction unit rear side 512, a product extraction unit top surface 513 , a product extraction unit bottom surface 514, a product extraction unit internal surface (not shown) and a product extraction unit external surface 516.

In some cases, the hollow body 510 may comprise protrusion elements extending vertically from the product extraction unit rear side 512. In such cases, the protrusion elements are configured to secure a connector, such as a screw or bolt, inside the protrusion element. Thereby, enabling the product extraction unit 500 to be mounted at the product extraction unit rear side 512. For example, the protrusion element may comprise four (4) protrusion elements 517A-517D, which may be configured to secure a screw therein for mounting and securing the product extraction unit 500 to a bracket (not shown).

In some embodiments of the present invention, the hollow body 510 further comprises an adapter socket 518 situated at the product extraction unit top surface 513. The adapter socket 518 is configured to enable an adapter unit 580 to be mounted into the hollow body 510. In some cases, the adapter socket 518 is defined as the top section of the hollow body 510, extending from the product extraction unit top surface 513 and down to a stopper shelf (not shown). In some cases, the bore circumference wall may extend to a socket height. In some cases, the socket height is configured to enable the adapter unit 580 to be mounted at the adapter socket 518. In further cases, the socket height is about the height of the circumference wall of the adapter unit 580.

In some cases, the adapter socket 518 comprises an adapter socket opening (not shown), designed in an irregular shape. In such cases, the irregular shape of the adapter socket opening can be slightly wider than the irregular shape of the adapter unit 580. In such exemplary cases, the irregular shape of the adapter socket opening which enables the adapter unit 580 to be snuggly/tightly inserted through the adapter socket opening and into the adapter socket 518. Also, the irregular shape of the adapter socket opening is configured to enable insertion of the adapter unit into the adapter socket 518 in a certain position/direction, in accordance with the irregular shape thereof. For example, in case the irregular shape of the adapter is truncated triangle, the adapter unit shall be inserted through the opening in a single position, in which the truncated section of the adapter unit circumference wall is situated above the truncated section of the adapter socket openings.

As shown, the irregular shape of both the adapter socket opening and the adapter unit 580 is designed as a cylinder with two identical and vertical truncated portions, positioned at two opposite and parallel ends. In such exemplary cases, the adapter unit may be inserted into the adapter socket opening at two possible positions. In some cases, the irregular shape is designed to situate the extractor facing opening (not shown) of the adapter unit 580 above the extraction mechanism of the product extraction unit 500. In some cases, the stopper shelf of the adapter socket 518 may be designed as a flat shelf extending vertically inwards from the inner surface of the hollow body at a socket height below the adapter socket opening. In some cases, the stopper shelf further defines an extractor mechanism opening (not shown). In some cases, the extractor mechanism opening is configured to be situated underneath the extractor facing opening of the adapter unit 580.

In some embodiments of the present invention, the hollow body 510 further comprises a hollow body front opening 519 situated at the product extraction unit front side 511. In some cases, the hollow body front opening 519 enables objects outside of the hollow body 510 to be connected and/or to interact with objects inside the hollow body 510. In some cases, the hollow body front opening 519 may be sealed by a sealing layer 520 configured to seal the hollow body front opening 519. In some cases, the sealing layer 520 may comprise vertical cuts/openings situated therethrough to enable objects to pass through the vertical cuts/openings to also enable vertical movement of the objects that pass through the vertical cuts/openings. In some embodiments of the present invention, the hollow body 510 further comprises a hollow body bottom opening 521 situated at the product extraction unit bottom surface 514 thereof, enabling products to fall through the hollow body 510 and in some cases, into a conveyer unit (not show) situated below the product extraction unit 500.

In some embodiments of the present invention, the product extraction unit 500 further comprises the extraction mechanism 530 situated at the internal space of the hollow body 510, and is configured to extract products from the product container 501 connected to the adapter unit 580. Further elaborations about the structure of the extraction mechanism of the product extraction unit 500 are detailed below (in Figs. 6A-6B). In some embodiments of the present invention, the drive assembly 550 is configured to actuate the extraction mechanism of the product extraction unit 500. In some cases, the drive assembly 550 is located on the product extraction unit front side 511 of the product extraction unit external surface 516. In some cases, the drive assembly 550 comprising a motor 551, a guiding member 552, a motor frame 553 and a lifting element 554.

In some embodiments of the present invention, the motor frame 553 is located on the product extraction unit front side 511 of the product extraction unit external surface 516. The motor frame 553 may be configured to secure the drive assembly 550 to the hollow body 510. In some cases, the hollow body may comprise protrusion elements extending vertically from the product extraction unit front side 511 of the hollow body 510. The protrusion elements can be configured to secure the motor frame 553 to the hollow body 510. In some cases, the motor frame 553 further comprises a first pole 555 A and a second pole 555B. In some cases, the first pole 555 A and the second pole 555B are positioned in parallel to each other. The first pole 555A and the second pole 555B can be situated in parallel to the length of the hollow body 510. In some cases, the first pole 555A and the second pole 555B may extend to a height similar to the height of the hollow body 510.

In some cases, the motor 551 is connected to the motor frame 553. In some other cases, the motor 551 may be connected to the hollow body 510 adjacent to the product extraction unit bottom surface 514. In some cases, the guiding member 552 may extend vertically upwards from the top surface of the motor 551. In some cases, the motor 551 may be a pneumatic motor, electrical motor or any other motor known to a person having ordinary skill in the art. In some cases, the motor 551 is configured to move the lifting element 554 upwards and downwards along the guiding member 552 and the first and second poles 555 A and 555B.

In some embodiments of the present invention, the lifting element 554 is configured to be driven upwards and downwards on the guiding member 552 by the motor 551. In some cases, the lifting element 554 comprises a first lateral lifting element section 555, a second lateral lifting element section 556, a lifting element top section 557 and an internal lifting element (not shown). In some cases, the first and the second lateral lifting element sections 555 and 556 are configured to be situated on the motor frame 553, and to be moved thereon. In some cases, the first and the second lateral lifting element sections 555 and 556 comprises frame tunnels extending vertically therethrough. In such cases, the first and the second lateral lifting element sections 555 and 556 may be enable the first pole 554A to be threaded through the frame tunnels. In some cases, the lifting element top section 557 comprises a top section frame tunnel which is configured to accommodate the guiding member 552. The lifting element 554 further comprises a vertical actuating plate 558 attached to the extraction unit front side. In some cases, the vertical actuating plate 558 is connected to the bottom section of the front side of the first and the second lateral lifting element sections 555 and 556. In some embodiments of the present invention, the lifting element 554 is configured to extend from the drive assembly 550 towards the hollow body 510. In some cases, the lifting element 554 extends through the vertical openings in the sealing layer 520 and into the internal space of the product extraction unit.

In some cases, the guiding member is a threaded pole configured to be rotated by the motor

551. In such cases, a nut body 559 may be attached to the top surface of the lifting element top section 557. The nut body 559 further comprises a threaded guiding tunnel (not shown) extending vertically therethrough and situated just above the top section frame tunnel of the lifting element top section 557. The threaded guiding tunnel is configured to accommodate the guiding member

552. In some exemplary cases, the motor 551 may be configured to rotate the guiding member 552, thereby threading the nut body 559 and the rest of the lifting element 554 connected thereto vertically on the guiding member 552. In some embodiments of the present invention, the lifting element 554 may be vertically moved between a top position and a bottom position.

In some embodiments of the present invention, the product extraction unit 500 further comprises a control unit 560. In some cases, the control unit 560 is configured to control the motor, and other electrical devices of the product extraction unit 500. In some cases, the control unit 560 is situated at the product extraction unit rear side 515 of the external surface of the hollow body 510. In some embodiments of the present invention, the product extraction unit 500 further comprises at least one replacement indicator such as replacement indicators 561A and 561B. In some cases, the replacement indicators 561A and 561B may be situated at the product extraction unit top surface 513 and of the product extraction unit front side 511. In some cases, the control unit is configured to light at least one of the replacement indicators 561A and 561B in case a product container 501 is empty and in cases the adapter socket 518 does not contain an adapter unit and is available to receive the adapter unit.

Fig. 6A discloses the extraction mechanism of the product extraction unit at a bottom position according to Fig. 5A and 5B. Fig. 6A shows a cross-section B-B of the product extraction unit 600 and the product container 610 connected to the product extraction unit 600 by the adapter unit 620. Fig. 6A further shows an extraction mechanism 640 in a bottom position inside the product extraction unit 600. The adapter unit 620 can be mounted to an adapter socket 601 of the product extraction unit 600. The product extraction unit 600 may comprise a hollow body 602 designed as a hollow and elongated cylinder, forming the internal space of the product extraction unit 600. The adapter unit 620 is configured with the one-way valve (not shown) in an open position. The adapter unit 620 can also be configured with the container entering section 621 inside the neck 611 of the product container 610.

The product extraction unit 600 comprises a drive assembly 630 located on the product extraction unit external surface 603, as aforementioned. The drive assembly 630 comprises a motor 631, a guiding member (not shown), a motor frame 632 and a lifting element 633. The lifting element 633 extends from the drive assembly 630, through a vertical opening (not shown) at the sealing layer 604 which seals a front opening (not shown) of the hollow body 602, and into the internal space. The drive assembly 630 is configured to drive the lifting element 633 vertically upwards on the motor frame 632 to a top position, and down the motor frame 632 to a bottom position. The drive assembly 630 further comprises a vertical actuating plate 634 connected to the lifting element. In some cases, the vertical actuating plate 634 is configured to be vertically driven by the drive assembly. In some embodiments of the present invention, the vertical actuating plate 634 is dimensioned such that at least a part of the vertical actuating plate extends below the bottom opening of the hollow body 602 in cases the extraction mechanism 640 is at a bottom position.

In some cases, the extraction mechanism 640 is located inside the internal space defined by the inner surface of the hollow body 602. In some cases, the extraction mechanism 640 comprises an extraction tube 641, a stopper housing 650 and a stopper element 660. In some cases, the extraction tube 641 is connected to the raiseable platform, such that a vertical movement of the lifting element 633 can cause the extraction tube 641 to move accordingly. In some cases, the extraction tube 641 is hollow shaped to allow insertion through the extractor mechanism opening and the one-way valve of the adapter unit 620. In some cases, the extraction tube 641 may be designed as a hollow rectangular tube comprising a width enabling a product to flow down from a top side 642 and out from the extraction tube 641 uninterruptedly. The extraction tube 641 is situated inside a tunnel 622 of the adapter unit below the neck of the product container 610. In some cases, the extraction tube 641 further comprises a product receiving door 643. The product receiving door 643 is configured to be situated at the top side of the extraction tube 641 and block the top side of the extraction tube 641. The product receiving door 643 is further configured to be pivoted downwards around a hinge 644 and thereby place the product receiving door 643 in an open position. In cases the product receiving door 643 is pivoted downwards, the internal space of the extraction tube 641 is exposed the thereby products that are situated above the product receiving door 643 may fall into the top side 642 of the extraction tube 641. In some embodiments of the present invention, the product receiving door 643 is designed with a beveled top surface configured to hold at least one product thereon. In some cases, the top surface of the product receiving door 643 comprises vertical protrusions with varying heights that may create a beveled pattern for enabling products that are situated thereon to remain on the beveled top surface during vertical motion of the product receiving door 643. For example, in cases the extraction tube 641 is moved upwards by the drive assembly 630, one or more products of the products inside the product container, such as product 670, situated above the product receiving door 643 may be kept in place by the beveled top surface of the product receiving door 643. The one or more products may be kept on the beveled top surface of the product receiving door 643 until the product receiving door 643 pivots downwards, resulting in the extraction of the one or more products that were kept in place by the beveled top surface of the product receiving door 643. In some cases, more than one tab will fall down in the extraction tube 641. In such cases then the separation is done in the conveyor. In some cases, the indicator located near the product receiving door 643 of the conveyer tunnel can indicate if the conveyer tunnel is empty. If case not, the product receiving door 643 may be allowed to open and dispense based on the order received from controller unit In some embodiments of the present invention, the stopper housing 650 is connected to the internal surface of the product extraction unit 600 and is situated below the extraction tube 641. In some cases, the stopper housing 650 is shaped as a narrow cylinder comprising a stopper bore 652 extending vertically from the top surface of the stopper housing 650, through a portion of the length of the stopper housing 650. A stopper spring 651 can be located inside the stopper bore 652. In some cases, the stopper element 660 is shaped as a narrow pole. The stopper element 660 may also be connected to the stopper spring 651 and inserted at least partly inside the stopper housing 650. In some cases, the stopper element 660 is configured to extend from the stopper housing 650 and through at least a part of the extraction tube 641. In some cases, the stopper housing 650 and the stopper element 660 are shaped such that the stopper element 660 cannot be pushed out entirely from the stopper housing 650. In some cases, the stopper element 660 is further configured to maintain the product receiving door 643 in a closed position in cases the stopper element 660 contacts to the bottom side of the product receiving door 643. In some cases, the stopper element 660 comprises a stopper height enabling the stopper element 660 to contact the product receiving door 643 constantly except of cases that the lifting element 633 is located about the top position.

In cases the lifting element 633 is situated at a bottom position. The extraction tube 641 is positioned just below the neck 611 of the product container 610 and inside the adapter unit 620. The stopper element contacts the product receiving door 643 and maintain the product receiving door 643 in a closed position. The stopper spring 651 is compressed and activates force on the stopper element 660 against the product receiving door 643.

Fig. 6B discloses the extraction mechanism of the product extraction unit with at a top position, according to Fig. 6A. As shown, the extraction tube 641 extends through the adapter unit 620 and into the product container. The product receiving door 643 is not in contact with the stopper element 660, which almost fully extends outwards from the stopper housing 650 as a result of the stopper spring 651. Since the stopper element 660 doesn’t contacts the bottom surface of the product receiving door 643, the product receiving door 643 pivoted downwards to an open position, enabling the product 670 situated above the top surface of the product receiving door 643 to flow down through the extraction tube 641.

Fig. 7A disclose the conveyer unit of the single dispenser, according to Fig. 3. Fig. 7A shows a conveyer unit 700, which is configured to receive products from the product extraction unit (not shown) and convey the received product out from the conveyer unit 700 through a dispensing funnel 721. In some embodiments of the present invention, the conveyer unit 700 comprises a conveyer front side 701, a conveyer rear side 702, a conveyer top side 703, a conveyer bottom side 704, a conveyer receiving section 711 and a conveyer elongated section 712. In some cases, the conveyer receiving section 711 is designed as a container, wherein the conveyer receiving section 711 comprises a conveyer receiving opening 713 at the conveyer top side 703. In such cases, the conveyer receiving section 711 may be dimensioned and configured to receive the product extraction unit on top of the conveyer receiving opening 713. In some cases, the conveyer receiving opening 713 of the conveyer unit 700 may comprise the same shape and dimensions as the bottom opening of the product extraction unit. In such cases, the conveyer receiving section 711 can be dimensioned to situate a bottom opening of the product extraction unit on top of the conveyer receiving opening 713. For example, a product that is extracted by the extracting mechanism, falls from the door of the hollow tube and through the hollow body of the product extraction unit shall also fall through the receiving opening and into the conveyer receiving section 711. In some cases, the conveyer receiving section 711 may be flush with the outer surface of the hollow body of the extraction unit in some cases, the conveyer receiving section 711 may further comprise a conveyer funnel 720 extending from the top of the conveyer receiving opening 713 for both guiding the bottom opening of the product extraction unit and directing products falling from the bottom opening of the product extraction unit into the conveyer receiving section 711.

In some embodiments of the present invention, the conveyer elongated section 712 is connected to the conveyer receiving section 711 at an elongated section proximal end 714 thereof and comprises a dispensing opening 715 at an elongated section distal end 716 thereof. In some cases, the conveyer elongated section 712 comprises a conveyer tunnel (not shown) extending throughout the length thereof, wherein the conveyer tunnel comprises a tunnel entrance (not shown) situated at the elongated section proximal end 714 at the conveyer receiving section 711. In such cases, the conveyer tunnel is configured to enable the products received at the conveyer receiving section 711 to travel outwards from the conveyer unit 700 and into the dispensing funnel (not shown) which in some cases may be situated below the dispensing opening 715.

In some cases, the conveyer tunnel may be inclined in a conveyer angle to ease the travel of products therethrough. In other cases, a vibration engine may be coupled to the conveyer unit for generating vibrations that may cause any products that are stored at the conveyer receiving section 711 to travel through the conveyer elongated section 712 towards the dispensing opening 715. In case more than one product is at the conveyer tunnel, the vibrations generated by the vibration engine and the conveyer angle of the conveyer tunnel causes the more than one product to separate from one another. Thereby, allowing single products to reach a dispensing section (not shown) adjacent to the dispensing opening 715.

In some embodiments of the present invention, a dispensing door 717 is located at the elongated section distal end 716 of the conveyer elongated section 712. In some cases, the dispensing door 717 may be configured to selectively block the dispensing opening 715. In some cases, the dispensing door 717 is connected to a dispensing door hinge, which is located at the top surface and adjacent to the elongated section distal end 716 of the conveyer elongated section 712. In some cases, the dispensing door 717 comprises a protruding lever 718 extending from top edge of the dispensing door 717, and in parallel to the conveyer elongated section 712. In some embodiments, the dispensing door 717 is configured to be rotated upwards to an upward position from a downward position around a dispensing door axis 719. In some cases, the dispensing door axis 719 is a compression axis applying constant compression force on the dispensing door 717 to remain at a downward position.

In some cases, the protruding lever 718 of the dispensing door 717 is configured to be placed below the vertical actuating plate (not shown) of the drive assembly. In such cases, the drive assembly (not shown) of the product extraction unit may be configured to push the protruding lever 718 down by moving the lifting element (not shown) downwards along the motor frame (not shown) such that the vertical actuating plate is pressed against the protruding lever 718. Whereby the vertical actuating plate is pushing the protruding lever 718 and rotating the dispensing door 717 to an upward position in cases the drive assembly is at a bottom position. In such cases, the dispensing door 717 is at an upward position and enables product to be dispensed outward from the dispensing opening 715 in cases the drive assembly of the extraction unit is at a bottom position. Otherwise, the dispensing door 717 is at a downward position and preventing products from being dispensed.

Fig. 7B shows a horizontal cross section C-C of the conveyer unit 700, according to Fig. 7A. Fig. 7B shows a horizontal cross section of the conveyer unit 700, exposing the conveyer funnel 721 of the conveyer receiving section 711 and the conveyer funnel 721 extending through the length of the conveyer elongated section 712. In some cases, the conveyer funnel 721 is configured to direct products received through the conveyer receiving opening 713 of the conveyer receiving section 711 towards the elongated section proximal end 714 and the conveyer tunnel 721.

In some embodiments of the present invention, the conveyer tunnel 721 extends from the elongated section proximal end 714 to the dispensing opening 715 located at the elongated section distal end 716. In some cases, the conveyer tunnel 721 is configured to enable the products received at the conveyer receiving section 711 to travel outwards from the conveyer unit 700 and into the dispensing funnel (not shown) which in some cases may be situated below the dispensing opening 715. In some cases, the conveyer tunnel 721 may be inclined downwards in a conveyer angle relatively to a conveyer horizontal surface 750 to ease the travel of products/enhance the mobility of products traveling therethrough. In some cases, the conveyer angle may be a sharp angle or a blunt angle from the elongated section proximal end 714 to the elongated section distal end 716. In some cases, the conveyer tunnel 721 may comprise an inclined bottom surface (not shown). In such cases, the inclined bottom surface may be configured to separate the products traveling therethrough and form a line of single products inside the inclined bottom surface in cases more than one product entered the conveyer tunnel 721.

In some cases, a vibration engine (not shown) may be coupled to the conveyer unit for generating vibrations that may cause any products that are situated at the conveyer funnel 721 and the conveyer tunnel 721 to travel toward the elongated section distal end 716 and through the dispensing opening 715. In case more than one product is at the conveyer tunnel, the vibrations generated by the vibration engine and the conveyer angle of the conveyer tunnel 721 causes the more than one product to separate from one another and thereby, allowing single products to reach a dispensing section‘A’ of the conveyer tunnel adjacent to the dispensing opening 715.

Fig. 7C discloses the front section of the conveyer unit, according to Figs 7A and 7B. Fig. 7C shows the elongated section distal end 716 of the conveyer unit 700 with a semi-transparent dispensing door 717 revealing the dispensing opening 715 of the conveyer tunnel 721. In some cases, one or more sensors may be located around the elongated section distal end 716 and may be configured to detect whether a product is at the dispensing section‘A’ of the conveyer tunnel 720, or passed through the dispensing opening 715. In some cases, the sensors such as proximity sensors or laser sensors, comprise a top sensor 722 and two side sensors 723A and 723B. In some cases, the top sensor 722 can be located at the distal end 716 of the top surface of the conveyer elongated section 712 and in further cases, above dispensing section‘A’. In such cases, the top sensor 722 is configured to detect a presence of a product in the dispensing section‘A’, which is located in an immediate proximity of the dispensing opening 715. For example, a product travels through the conveyer tunnel 721 and reaches the dispensing section‘A’ about the dispensing opening 715, which is blocked by the dispensing door 717. Then, the top sensor 722 detects the presence of the product in the dispensing section‘A’. In such exemplary cases, the top sensor 722 may be used to detect products approaching the vicinity of the dispensing door 717.

In some cases, the two side sensors 723A and 723B are located in front of the elongated section distal end 716. In such cases, the two side sensors 723 A and 723B are configured to detect a presence of a product that exited the conveyer tunnel 721 through the dispensing opening 715. For example, the dispensing door 717 is opened due to the driving mechanism pressing against the protruding lever 718 enabling a product to exit the dispensing section‘A’ and out of the dispensing opening 715. The exit of the product from the dispensing opening 715 may be caused by the conveyer angle and/or the activity of a vibrating mechanism actuating vibrations at the conveyer tunnel 721. In such cases, the two side sensors 723 A and 723B may detect that the product passed through the dispensing opening 715. In such exemplary cases, the two side sensors 723 A and 723B may detect a dispensed product. Such a detection of the two side sensors 723A and 723B and may cause the dispensing door 717 to close.

Fig. 7D shows a dispensing door of the conveyer unit positioned upwardly, according to Figs 7A, 7B and 7C. Fig. 7D shows a layout in which the dispensing door 717 of the conveyer unit 700 is in positioned upwardly and wherein a lifting element 731 of a driving mechanism 730 is in a bottom position. The lifting element 731 comprises a vertical actuating plate 732 connected to the front side of the lifting element 731. In some cases, the vertical actuating plate 732 comprises an actuating protrusion 733 extending from the bottom edge of the vertical actuating plate 732. In some embodiments of the present invention, the vertical actuating plate 732 is configured to be positioned above the protruding lever 718 of the dispensing door 717.

In the layout shown in Fig. 7D, the dispensing door 717 is positioned upwardly due to the actuating protrusion 733 pressing the protruding lever 718 and actuating the rotation of the dispensing door 717 around the dispensing door axis 719 to the upward position. The dispensing opening 715 is not blocked by the dispensing door 717, and products may be dispensed through the dispensing opening 715 and be detected by the two side sensors 723 A and 723B. In some cases, the dispensing door axis 719 applies compression force against the protruding lever 718 of the dispensing door 717, such that the dispensing door 717 strives to return to the downward position and to block the dispensing opening 715.

The sensors may be located around the elongated section distal end 716 and may be configured to detect whether a product is at the conveyer tunnel 720, is adjacent to the dispensing door 717 or passed through the dispensing opening 715. In some cases, sensors such as proximity sensors or laser sensors, may comprise a top sensor 722 and two side sensors 723A and 723B. In some cases, the top sensor 722 can be located at the distal end 716 of the top surface of the conveyer elongated section 712. In such cases, the top sensor 722 is configured to detect a presence of a product in the close proximity of the dispensing opening 715. For example, a product travels through the conveyer tunnel 721 and reaches the dispensing opening 715. In such an exemplary case, the dispensing opening 715 may be blocked by the dispensing door 717. Thus, the top sensor 722 may detect the presence of the product. In such exemplary cases, the top sensor 722 may detect products approaching the vicinity of the dispensing door 717.

In some cases, the two side sensors 723A and 723B are located in front of the elongated section distal end 716. In such cases, the two side sensors 723 A and 723B are configured to detect a presence of a product that exited the conveyer tunnel 721 through the dispensing opening 715. For example, a product is located at the dispensing opening 715 due to the driving mechanism pressing against the protruding lever 718 causing the dispensing door 717 to be opened and due to the activity of a vibrating mechanism actuating vibrations at the conveyer tunnel 72. Then, the two side sensors 723A and 723B detects that the product passed through the dispensing opening 715. In such exemplary cases, the two side sensors 723A and 723B may detect products approaching and/or exiting the vicinity of the dispensing opening 715. In such a case, the dispensing door 717 may be configured to be opened/closed.

Fig. 7E shows a front view of the conveyer unit, according to Fig’s. 7A 7B, 7C and 7D. Fig. 7E shows a vertical cross section of the conveyer unit 700 exposing the dispensing opening 715 and the conveyer tunnel 221 of the conveyer elongated section 712. In some cases, the conveyer tunnel 721 comprises a first lateral side 721 A and a second lateral side 721B. The conveyer tunnel 721 is configured to direct products received at the conveyer receiving section 711 towards the dispensing opening 715 of the conveyer elongated section 712.

In some embodiments of the present invention, the conveyer tunnel 721 is further configured to separate products traveling through the conveyer tunnel 721 in cases more than one product entered the conveyer tunnel 721. The conveyer tunnel 721 is also designed to form a line from the single products on an inclined bottom surface 740 of the conveyer tunnel 721. In some embodiments of the present invention, the recessed bottom surface 740 extends through the entire conveyer tunnel, from the elongated section proximal end 714 to the dispensing opening 715. In some cases, the inclined bottom surface 740 is inclined in a conveyer angle, which may be a sharp angle or a blunt angle from the elongated section proximal end 714 to the elongated section distal end 716. In some embodiments of the present invention, the recessed bottom surface 740 comprises a first inclined surface 741 , inclining downwards from the first lateral side 721 A of conveyer tunnel 721. The first inclined surface 741 defined by a first inclination angle resulting in a slight/low angled inclination relatively to the first lateral side 721 A. In some cases, the recessed bottom surface 740 further comprises a second inclined surface 742, inclining downwards from the second lateral side of conveyer tunnel 721B. The second inclined surface 742 defined by a second inclination angle resulting in a steep/high angled inclination relatively to the second lateral side 721B. In some cases, the second inclination angle is larger than the first inclination angle.

The first inclined surface 741 and the second inclined surface 742 incline towards a tunnel bottom surface 743. In some cases, the tunnel bottom surface 743 is situated closer to the second lateral side 721B than the second lateral side 721A. In some cases, the first inclined surface 741 and the second inclined surface 742 forms a conveyer lateral angle a, which may be in the range of 60°-l00°, and in further cases in a range of 86°-88°. In some exemplary cases where two or more products are situated inside the conveyer tunnel 721, the second lateral side 721 A allows the products to form a line on the tunnel bottom surface 743 and the first lateral side prevents stacking of the products on one another. In such exemplary cases, a line of single products is formed at the tunnel bottom surface 743 in cases more than one product entered the tunnel.

Fig. 8A discloses a funneling unit of the dispensing mechanism, according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention. In some embodiments of the present invention, a funneling unit 800 may be located on top of the bottom section 802 of the casing of the automatic dispensing machine, and at least partly below the at least one bracket. Also, the funneling unit 800 is configured to receive products that are conveyed by the at least one extraction unit and direct the received products towards a distribution tray 810. In some embodiments of the present invention, the funneling unit 800 comprises a front funnel 805 and a rear funnel 820. In some cases, the front funnel 805 and the rear funnel 820 are connected to the bottom section 802 of the casing by an elevated connector (not shown) such as leaf springs.

In some cases, the front funnel 805 comprises a front funnel slope 806 and a front funnel drain hole 807. The slope defined by the front funnel slope806 may be in the range of 3-15 degrees downwards. In some cases, the front funnel 805 is located underneath the front bracket 808, wherein the front bracket 808 accommodates dispensers 809A-809E. In some cases, the front funnel slope 806 is designed as an upside-down truncated pyramid or a truncated cone. In some cases, the front funnel drain hole 807 may be located at the center of the front funnel 805. Also, the front funnel drain hole 807 may be situated above the distribution tray 810. In some cases, the front funnel drain hole 807 is sized for enabling products that are conveyed by dispensers 809A- 809E, and slide on the front funnel slope 806 to fall into the distribution tray 810. In some cases, a vibration engine (not shown) is connected to the front funnel 805. In such cases, the vibration engine may generate vibrations to ensure that the received products travels down the front funnel slope 806.

In some embodiments of the present invention, the rear funnel 820 comprises a rear funnel slope 821 and at least one connecting bridge (not shown). In some cases, the rear funnel 820 is located underneath a rear bracket 822, wherein the rear bracket 822 accommodates dispensers 809F-809J. In some cases, the rear funnel slope 821 is designed as an inclined upside-down truncated triangle. The slope defined by the front funnel slope 806 may be in the range of 3-15 degrees downwards. In some cases, the rear funnel slope 821 may be located at the rear side of the casing and extend and incline downwards towards the bottom section 802. In some cases, a first and a second connecting bridges 823A and 823B extends from the truncated end of the rear funnel slope 821 and towards the front funnel slope 806. The first and a second connecting bridges 823 A and 823B may both comprise bridge proximal ends (not shown) and bridge front ends (not shown). In such cases, the first and the second connecting bridges 823A and 823B may be positioned in parallel to each other, and may incline downwards from the bridge proximal ends thereof to the bridge distal ends thereof. Also, the bridge proximal ends of the first and the second connecting bridges 823A and 823B may be situated above or connected to the front funnel drain hole 807. In some cases, the first and the second connecting bridges 823 A and 823B are dimensioned to enable products that are conveyed by dispensers 809F-809J, and are received at the rear funnel slope 821 to be directed therethrough into the front funnel 805. In some cases, a vibration engine (not shown) may be connected to the rear funnel 820. In such cases, the vibration engine may generate vibrations to ensure that the received products travels down the rear funnel slope 821, through the first and the second connecting bridges and into the front funnel 805.

Fig. 8B discloses the rear funnel of the funneling unit of the dispensing mechanism, according to Fig. 8A. In some embodiments of the present invention, the rear funnel 820 is configured to receive products conveyed by the at least one extraction unit (not shown) situated on the rear bracket 822 and direct the received products towards the front funnel 805. In some cases, the rear funnel 820 may be connected to the casing by at least one elevated connector (not shown) such as leaf springs 827A and 827B.

In some cases, the rear funnel 820 comprises a rear funnel slope 821, a rear funnel rim 826 and at least one connecting bridge, such as first and a second connecting bridges 823A and 823B. In some cases, the rear funnel slope 821 is designed as an inclined upside-down truncated triangle. The rear funnel rim 826 extends upwards from the upper and lateral edges of the rear funnel slope 821 and configured to prevent products from falling off from the rear funnel slope 821. In further cases, the rear funnel slope 821 comprises an opposing triangle body 827 situated at the middle section of the rear funnel slope 821 and configured to direct products sliding down the rear funnel slope 821 towards either one of the first and a second connecting bridges 823A and 823B.

In some cases, the first and second connecting bridges 823 A and 823B extend from the truncated end of the rear funnel slope 821 and towards the front funnel slope 806. The first and a second connecting bridges 823A and 823B. In such cases, the first and the second connecting bridges 823A and 823B may be positioned in parallel to each other. The first and the second connecting bridges 823A and 823Bmay also incline downwards from a first and second bridge proximal ends 824A and 824B towards a first and second bridge distal ends 825A and 825B. The bridge proximal ends of the first and the second connecting bridges 823 A and 823B may be situated above or connected to the front funnel 805. In some cases, the first and the second connecting bridges 823A and 823B can be shaped to allow products received at the rear funnel slope 821 to be directed into the front funnel 805. In some cases, a vibration engine (not shown) may be connected to the rear funnel 820 for generating the vibrations required for conveying the products. In such cases, the vibration engine may generate vibrations to ensure that the received products travel downwards to the rear funnel slope 821, through the first and the second connecting bridges 823A and 823B and into the front funnel 805.

Fig. 9 discloses the brackets of the dispensing mechanism, according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention. Fig. 9 shows a segment of a bracket 900 of the at least one bracket of the dispensing mechanism, which is configured to accommodate at least one dispenser thereon. Also, the bracket 900 is configured be secured to the base of the dispensing mechanism (not shown). In some cases, the bracket 900 comprises a bottom horizontal section 910 and a vertical section 920. In such cases, the vertical section 920 may extend vertically upwards from a rear edge 912 of the bottom horizontal section 910. In other cases, at least one right angled spacer 930 is located between the bottom horizontal section 910 and the vertical section 920. In such cases, the right-angled spacer 930 may extend vertically upwards and away at a first vertical end

931 thereof from the rear edge 912 of the bottom horizontal section 910 and the vertical section 920 may extend vertically upwards from a second horizontal end 932 of the right-angled spacer 930. In some cases, each right-angled spacer 930 comprises two right-angled spacer protrusions 934A and 934B situated thereat. In some cases, the protrusions may extend from the front surface of the right-angled spacer 930. In such cases, the two right-angled spacer protrusions 934A and 934B may extend for a short distance, and may be cylindrical in shape.

In some cases, at least one vertical front extension 940 may extend vertically from a front edge 914 of the bottom horizontal section 910. In some cases, each vertical front extension 940 may comprise two vertical front extension protrusions 944A and 944B situated thereat. In some cases, the protrusions may extend from the front surface of the at least one vertical front extension 940. In such cases, the two vertical front extension protrusions 944A and 944B may extend for a short distance, and may be cylindrical in shape.

In some cases, the at least one right angled spacer 930 and the at least one vertical front extension 940 are configured to include two or more identical number of right-angled spacers and vertical extensions. In such cases, both the right-angled spacers and the vertical front extensions may be spaced apart from one another. In some cases, each of the right-angled spacers and the vertical extensions may be dimensioned with the same length. In such cases, the spaces between the right-angled spacers and the vertical extensions may also be dimensioned with the same length. In such exemplary case, the right-angled spacers and the vertical extensions may be situated in pairs facing one another, in perpendicular manner to the bottom horizontal section 910, and with identical spaces between each pair.

In some embodiments of the present invention, the bottom horizontal section 910 may comprise a plurality of apertures 916 situated thereat. In some cases, the plurality of apertures 916 are configured to receive a plurality of connectors for securing the at least one bracket 900 to the base of the dispensing mechanism. In some cases, both of the two right-angled spacer protrusions 934A and 934B and the two vertical front extension protrusions 944A and 944B are configured to receive two or more connectors for securing one of the at least one dispenser to the at least one bracket 900. In some cases, the vertical section 920 also comprises a plurality of apertures 921A- 921D situated thereat. In such cases, the plurality of apertures 921A-921D are configured to receive a plurality of connectors for securing one of the at least one dispenser to the vertical section 920 of the at least one bracket 900. In some cases, the plurality of apertures 921A-921D may be arranged in pairs, and in different height of the vertical section 920.

In some cases, each one of the at least one bracket 900 may be formed from several repetitions of bracket segment 950. Each bracket segment 950 of the at least one bracket 900 may be designed to receive one dispenser of the at least one dispenser. In some cases, each bracket segment 950 may comprise a width, which may be identical to the width of the dispenser that the segment-like section of the bracket is configured to accommodate.

Figure 10 schematically shows components of the automatic dispensing device, according to exemplary embodiments of the subject matter. The dispenser comprises sensor module 1010 for detecting whether a product is at the dispensing section‘A’ of the conveyer tunnel. The sensor module 1010 may include sensors such as proximity sensors, image sensor, weight sensor, laser sensor and the like.

The dispenser comprises vibrating engine 1020 coupled to the conveyer 1040 for generating vibrations that may cause any products that are stored at the conveyer receiving section 711 to travel through the conveyer towards the dispensing opening.

The dispenser comprises containers 1030. Each container contains only one type of product. The containers have an opening used to insert the products thereto. The containers are coupled to the body of the dispensing device. The products are maneuvered from the containers 1030 to the dispensing opening via the conveyer 1040. The containers may be identical in size and shape, or have different sizes and/or shapes.

The dispenser comprises conveyer 1040 configured to receive products from the product extraction unit and convey the received product into a conveyer tunnel. The conveyer tunnel is configured to enable the received products to travel outwards from the conveyer unit into a dispensing funnel which in some cases may be situated below the dispensing opening.

The dispenser comprises interface 1050 for providing options to the consumer for controlling the dispensed doses, configure some dispensing options, and the like. In some cases, the interface panel 117 comprises a user interface 120 and a barcode reader 121. The user interface 120 may comprise an electronic display device configured to display instructions and information for a consumer utilizing the automatic dispensing device 100. For example, the user interface 120 can be configured to display to a consumer utilizing the automatic dispensing device 100 information on the dose currently being prepared by the automatic dispensing device 100. In some cases, the user interface 120 may display information regards the dispensing process. In some cases, the user interface 120 is configured to receive input from the consumer utilizing the automatic dispensing device 100. For example, the consumer may utilize the user interface 120 for requesting information regarding expire dates and the environmental conditions inside the automatic dispensing device 100. In some cases, the user interface 120 may comprise a touchscreen, a keyboard or side buttons and the like.

The dispenser comprises control unit 1060 configured to manage the inventory and control the distribution of products in the automatic dispensing device. In some cases, the control unit 1060 is connected to the body of the dispensing device. In some cases, the control unit 1060 may be in communication with the containers 1030. Also, the control unit 1060 may be in communication with other electrical device of the automatic dispensing device, such as the user interface and the barcode reader on the interface panel. In some cases, the control unit 1060 may comprise an internal power source such as a battery or means for connecting to an external power. For example, a power cable may extend from the control unit 1060 and through the casing of the automatic dispensing device and may be configured to be connected to a power socket. In some embodiments of the present invention, the control unit 1060 comprises a processor, a memory and a communication module enabling the control unit to communicate with a remote server. In some cases, the control unit 1060 may be configured to exchange data with a consumer, receive and store the received data.

In some exemplary cases, the sensor module 1010 collects information relating to the movement of the edible product from the container towards the distribution tray. The collected information, as well as the amount of energy provided by the vibrating engine 1020, is provided to the processing module 1060. The processing module 1060 may then compute the vibration required by the vibrating engine 1020 for each of the edible products. That is, product from container #6 requires vibration having frequency and amplitude of a first value, while product from container #4 requires vibration having frequency and amplitude of a second value. In some other cases, the vibration properties may be received from a remote device, such as a server communicating with the dispensing device.

While the disclosure has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, it may be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope of the invention. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings without departing from the essential scope thereof. Therefore, it is intended that the disclosed subject matter not be limited to the particular embodiment disclosed as the best mode contemplated for carrying out this invention, but only by the claims that follow.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A dispending device for dispensing edible products, comprising:

a base;

multiple product containers coupled to the base, each product container of the multiple product containers is configured to dispense another edible product;

a distribution tray coupled to the base, for dispensing the edible products;

a funnel coupled to the base for conveying the edible products from the multiple product containers to the distribution tray, said funnel forms a slope downwards towards the distribution tray;

a vibration unit secured to the funnel for generating vibrations required for conveying the edible products along the funnel.

2. The dispending device of claim 1, further comprises a movable lid removable coupled to the base, said movable lid is placed over the product containers enabling access to the product containers when moved away from the base.

3. The dispending device of claim 1, further comprises sensor module configured to detect a presence of an edible product outside a product container of the multiple product containers.

4. The dispending device of claim 3, further comprises a dispensing door located between the funnel and the distribution tray, said dispensing door blocks passage of the edible products towards the distribution tray.

5. The dispending device of claim 4, wherein the sensor module detects presence of an edible product approaching a vicinity of the dispensing door, said dispensing device comprises a motor for moving the dispensing door in response to detecting the presence of the edible product in the vicinity of the dispensing door.

6. The dispending device of claim 3, wherein the sensor module comprises a top sensor located near the funnel for detecting a presence of the edible product that exited a product container of the multiple product containers towards the funnel.

7. The dispending device of claim 3, wherein the sensor module collects information relating to the movement of the edible product from the product container towards the dispensing outlet, wherein the dispensing device further comprising a processing module for computing, based on the information relating to the movement of the edible product, vibration properties provided by the vibrating unit required for each of the edible products.

8. The dispending device of claim 1, further comprises a control unit coupled to the vibration unit, said control unit sends control commands to the vibration unit to convey the edible product to the distribution tray.

9. The dispending device of claim 1, further comprises multiple arms, each of the multiple arms is located under a product container of the product multiple containers, said multiple arms convey the edible products towards the funnel.

10. The dispending device of claim 1, further comprises adapter units connected to at least one of the multiple product container, each adapter unit of the adapter units comprises an adapter body comprising a container facing side and a dispenser facing side.

11. The dispending device of claim 10, wherein the adapter unit comprises a circumferential wall section comprising a skirt section extending vertically downwards from the circumferential wall section towards the container facing side, said skirt section is secured to an outer surface of a neck of the product container

12. The dispending device of claim 11, wherein the neck of the product container comprising threads and wherein the skirt section comprises matching threads.

13. The dispending device of claim 1, wherein the slope formed by the funnel is in the range of 3-15 degrees downwards.

14. The dispending device of claim 1, wherein the vibration unit generates vibrations having power in the range of 20-2,000 milliamp.