GB2199308A - Timed drug package dispenser - Google Patents

Abstract

A timed drug package dispenser has a sectioned container 1 and a timing device 5, which upon the completion of a pre-determined period operates an alarm 3. As the alarm 3 is stopped, and the timing device 5 reset, access is given to a specific drug package. <IMAGE>

Description

TTSRD DRUG PACKAGE DISPENSER This invention relates to a timed drug package dispenser.

Many types of chemical compounds which are used either to treat or improve Human conditions may be dispensed in individual dose packages, such as pills, capsules or vials.

It is often required that these packages be dispensed in the correct number, at pre-determined time intervals, e.g. a tablet containing a specific drug may need to be taken by a patient at four- hourly intervals.

According to the invention described herin, there is provided a sectioned container, structured so as to provide a series of discrete compartments, each of which having a capacity of one dose of the prescribed chemical package.

A means of moving the compartments in the container past a fixed opening or access point is provided, together with a means for restricting access to the container to predetermined times A timing unit is incorporated, which measures a set peribd of time, and at the end of which initiates an alarm.

fwo specific embodiments of the invention will now be described by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which; Figure 1 shows front and side views of the external arrangement of a mechanical timed drug package dispenser.

Figure 2 shows secticned views relating to figure 1 Figure 3 shows front and side views of the external arrangement of a timed drug package dispenser which is operated by means of a combination of mechanical and electronic systems.

Figure 4 shots sectioned views relating to figure 3.

Referring to figures 1 and 2, upon operation of the alarm, which is an integral part of the mechanical timer(l), the reset/ release lever(2) is pushed to the left by te user, as indicated in fig 1. This action causes the package container(3) to rotate about it's axis by a fixed amount and allowing a package to pass into the dispensing orifice(4). As the reset/ release lever is move, it also engages the rewind mechanism of the mechanical timer, thus restarting the timing cycle.

Over . . .

Referrin to figures 3 and 4, an electronic timing unit(2) is connected to an alarm(3) a solenoid(5) and a reset switch(4).

When a pre- determined period of time has passed, the alarm is activated. To silence the alarm, the reset switch is operated which restarts the timing cycle. This action also causes the solenoid to move the container(l) to the appointed place, allowing the package to be removed via the access door(6).

In either of the examples shown above, the timing system may be used to control the position of a locking mechanism which prevents movement of the container, or opening of the access door until the alarm is activated. In the case of the device described in fig 3 and fig 4, this may be combined with manual operation of the container.

Claims (3)

1 A timed drug package dispenser comprising a sectioned container, a timing mechanism, and an alarm.

2 A timed drug package dispenser as claimed in claim 1 wherein provision is made for access to a specific drug package, only upon completion of the timing cycle.

3 A timed drug package dispenser as claimed in claim 1 and claim 2 wherein the timing cycle is carried out by an electronic system.