JP2021503588A - Temperature controlled distribution drawer - Google Patents

Abstract

Devices for distributing items include cabinets and drawers within the cabinets. The drawer includes one or more compartments for storing items and a cooling system within the drawer. The cooling system is configured to keep one or more compartments of the drawer at a temperature below the temperature of the environment surrounding the cabinet. The drawer further includes insulation on the sides of the drawer and insulation under one or more compartments. The refrigeration system may be a thermoelectric cooling system.

Description

Many industries rely on accurate inventory control and secure item distribution. For example, in a hospital environment, it is of utmost importance to administer the correct drug to the patient at the correct dose. In addition, it is legally required that regulated substances be stored tightly and tracked accurately, and it is also important that inventory of drugs and supplies be tracked to ensure proper business management. ..

Different drugs may have different storage requirements. For example, some drugs or supplies may require refrigeration and others may not. Items that require refrigeration are usually only stored in the refrigerator, which can cause special problems. Even if the refrigerator is locked, once the refrigerator is accessed, all items in the refrigerator will be accessible and exposed to false acquisitions, diversions, or other issues.

According to one aspect, the device for distributing items includes a cabinet and drawers within the cabinet. The drawer contains one or more compartments for storing items. The device further includes a refrigeration system in the drawer. The refrigeration system is configured to keep one or more compartments of the drawer at a temperature below the temperature of the environment surrounding the cabinet. The drawer further comprises insulation on the sides of the drawer and insulation under one or more compartments. In some embodiments, the device further comprises a computerized controller coupled to the drawer, which controls access to the drawer. In some embodiments, the device further comprises a temperature probe in the drawer, the temperature probe provides a signal indicating the temperature in the drawer to a computerized controller, and the computerized controller is the temperature of the drawer. Provide information about the device to the user of the device. In some embodiments, the device further comprises a temperature buffer surrounding the temperature probe. In some embodiments, the device is controllable by a computerized controller and further comprises one or more actuators coupled to the respective lids of one or more compartments, one or more. Actuators are located outside the interior of the drawer as defined by the insulation on the sides of the drawer and the insulation under one or more compartments. In some embodiments, the one or more actuators include one or more solenoids. In some embodiments, one or more actuators are located outside the interior of the drawer as defined by the insulation on the sides of the drawer and the insulation underneath the one or more compartments. It is mounted on one or more printed circuit boards. In some embodiments, the device further comprises one or more lights corresponding to at least some of one or more compartments, respectively, and the controller says that a particular compartment should be accessed. If determined, it is configured to activate one of the actuators corresponding to a particular compartment to unlock the particular compartment and illuminate one of the lights corresponding to the particular compartment. In some embodiments, the device further comprises an override mechanism accessible from the outside of the drawer, which mechanically moves one or more actuators to manually unlock the compartment. In some embodiments, the device further comprises an insulating panel within the cabinet, the insulating panel is located above the drawer if the drawer is closed and inside the cabinet, and the insulating panel is opened with the drawer open. If so, it stays in the cabinet. In some embodiments, the device further comprises an upper insulation panel coupled to the drawer, which is slidable relative to the drawer to expose one or more compartments. In some embodiments, the refrigeration system is located between the compressor and condenser located at the rear of the drawer and the insulation under one or more compartments and one or more compartments of the drawer. Includes an evaporator. In some embodiments, the evaporator is a roll bond evaporator. In some embodiments, the device further comprises a fan, which moves air from the outside of the drawer through a condenser. In some embodiments, the drawer defines an air flow path through which the fan drives air, and the air flow path surrounds the cabinet on the front flank of the cabinet so that air enters the air flow path at the front of the cabinet. Open to the environment, the fan exhausts air from the rear of the cabinet. In some embodiments, the air flow path is at least partially defined within the insulation under one or more compartments. In some embodiments, the device further comprises one or more additional drawers, at least one of the one or more additional drawers is not refrigerated.

According to another aspect, the drawer has an outer shell, insulation defining the temperature-controlled interior of the drawer, and a compressor and condensation located inside the drawer but outside the temperature-controlled interior of the drawer. It is equipped with a refrigerating system having a vessel and having an evaporator arranged inside the drawer with temperature control. The drawer is a partition that defines one or more compartments inside the temperature-controlled interior of the drawer, one or more lids that cover one or more compartments, and electrical to receive power and control signals. An interface and one or more actuators coupled to one or more lids to lock and unlock one or more compartments in response to control signals received via an electrical interface. Further prepare. In some embodiments, one or more actuators are located outside the temperature-controlled interior of the drawer. In some embodiments, the drawer further comprises one or more lights corresponding to one or more compartments, which respond to a control signal received via an electrical interface. In some embodiments, the drawer has an air intake at the front of the drawer, an air flow path that is at least partially located within an insulating panel underneath the temperature-controlled interior of the drawer, and air to the air intake. It is further provided with a fan that draws in air, through an air flow path, and through a condenser to expel air from the rear side of the drawer. In some embodiments, the air intake is hidden within a handle on the front side of the drawer.

According to another aspect, the drawer comprises an outer shell, insulation defining the insulated interior of the drawer, an intake port on the first surface of the drawer, and an exhaust port on the second surface of the drawer. , With fans. The fan draws air into the intake port, exhausts the air from the exhaust port, and the air flows between the intake port and the exhaust port through an air flow path that is at least partially defined by the heat insulating material. In some embodiments, the drawer further comprises a refrigeration system that cools the insulated interior of the drawer, and the fan allows air from the outside of the drawer to flow through the condenser of the refrigeration system. In some embodiments, the first surface of the drawer is the front surface of the drawer and the air intake is hidden within a handle on the front surface of the drawer.

According to another aspect, the device for distributing items comprises a cabinet and drawers within the cabinet. The drawer contains one or more compartments for storing items. The device further includes a cooling system in the drawer. The cooling system is configured to keep one or more compartments of the drawer at a temperature below the temperature of the environment surrounding the cabinet. The drawer further comprises insulation on the sides of the drawer and insulation under one or more compartments. In some embodiments, the cooling system includes a compressor, a condenser, and an evaporator. In some embodiments, the cooling system is a thermoelectric cooling system. In some embodiments, the thermoelectric cooling system further comprises a fan configured to circulate air within the drawer. In some embodiments, the thermoelectric cooling system further includes a fan configured to dissipate heat from the thermoelectric cooling unit and create an air flow under or around the insulation of the drawer. In some embodiments, at least some of the compartments are defined by perforated walls, which allow circulating air to pass through the walls and compartments. In some embodiments, the lid of at least some compartments in which the wall is perforated comprises a downward rib that projects into the compartment when the lid is closed. In some embodiments, the device further comprises a computerized controller coupled to the drawer, which controls access to the drawer. In some embodiments, the device further comprises a temperature probe in the drawer, which provides a signal indicating the temperature in the drawer to a computerized controller. In some embodiments, the device is controllable by a computerized controller and further comprises one or more actuators coupled to the respective lids of one or more compartments, one or more. Actuators are located outside the interior of the drawer as defined by the insulation on the sides of the drawer and the insulation under one or more compartments. In some embodiments, the device further comprises a magnetic latch in at least some of the compartments, which is controlled by a computerized controller to lock and unlock the lid of each compartment. In some embodiments, each of the magnetic latches has a permanent magnet fixed to the lid of its respective compartment and an electromagnet fixed to the wall of the compartment so that the permanent magnet contacts the electromagnet when the lid is closed. Including, the controller unlocks the compartment by passing an electric current through the electromagnet so that the electromagnet repels the permanent magnet. In some embodiments, the one or more actuators include one or more solenoids. In some embodiments, the device further comprises one or more sensors configured to sense the position of each lid in one or more compartments. In some embodiments, each of the sensors is located outside the interior of the drawer, defined by insulation on the sides of the drawer and insulation under one or more compartments, on its respective lid. It is combined. In some embodiments, each of the sensors is coupled to its lid via a link mechanism through the insulation of the drawer. In some embodiments, each of the sensors is coupled to its lid via a covered cable that runs through the insulation of the drawer. In some embodiments, the device further comprises one or more lights corresponding to at least some of one or more compartments, respectively, and the controller says that a particular compartment should be accessed. If determined, it is configured to activate one of the actuators corresponding to a particular compartment to unlock the particular compartment and illuminate one of the lights corresponding to the particular compartment. In some embodiments, the device further comprises an override mechanism accessible from the outside of the drawer, which comprises one or more actuators to manually unlock one or more of the compartments. Move mechanically. In some embodiments, the thermoelectric cooling system comprises a closed cooling loop containing a heat transfer fluid. In some embodiments, the heat transfer fluid is maintained at a pressure such that its boiling point is approximately the desired temperature inside the drawer. In some embodiments, the heat transfer fluid is maintained at a pressure such that its boiling point is between 2 ° C and 8 ° C. The heat transfer fluid may be carbon dioxide. In some embodiments, a thermoelectric cooling system that includes a closed cooling loop and a heat transfer fluid forms a heat pipe that operates by natural convection.

According to another aspect, the drawer comprises an outer shell, insulation defining the temperature controlled interior of the drawer, and a thermoelectric cooling system located on the side wall of the drawer. The thermoelectric cooling system is configured to keep the inside of the drawer at a temperature lower than the temperature of the environment surrounding the drawer. The drawer is for receiving power and control signals with a set of walls defining one or more compartments inside the temperature-controlled interior of the drawer and one or more lids covering the one or more compartments. Electrical interface and one or more coupled to one or more lids to lock and unlock one or more compartments in response to control signals received through the electrical interface. Further equipped with an actuator. In some embodiments, one or more actuators are located outside the temperature-controlled interior of the drawer. In some embodiments, the drawer further comprises one or more lights corresponding to one or more compartments, which respond to a control signal received via an electrical interface. In some embodiments, the thermoelectric cooling system is configured to circulate cooled air inside the drawer. In some embodiments, the thermoelectric cooling system comprises a closed cooling loop containing a heat transfer fluid. In some embodiments, the heat transfer fluid is carbon dioxide maintained at a pressure such that its boiling point is between 2 ° C and 8 ° C.

It is a figure which shows the distribution cabinet which can embody this invention. It is a figure which shows the portable distribution device which can embody this invention. It is a front part upper perspective view of the drawer by embodiment of this invention. It is a rear upper perspective view of the drawer of FIG. 3 according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 is an upward exploded view of the drawer of FIG. 3 according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a downward exploded view of the drawer of FIG. 3 according to the embodiment of the present invention. It is a lower perspective view of the drawer of FIG. 3 with the bottom cover removed. It is an upper rear perspective view of the drawer of FIG. 3 according to the embodiment of this invention. It is a partial view of the cabinet of FIG. 1 having a heat insulating panel at a predetermined position according to the embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure which shows another embodiment of the cabinet of FIG. 1 which has a heat insulating panel at a predetermined position by embodiment of this invention. Top view of the drawer in FIG. 3 with many components removed to clarify the mechanism for achieving computer control of access to individual storage bins in the drawer according to embodiments of the present invention. Is. It is a figure which shows a part of FIG. 11 in more detail. FIG. 3 shows the lid of the drawer compartment of FIG. 3 in the open position according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is an upper rear perspective view of the drawer of FIG. 3 with some components removed, according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is a partial enlarged view of FIG. It is a figure which shows the attachment of the heat insulating panel to the drawer of FIG. 3 by embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the override mechanism by embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows a part of FIG. 17 in more detail. It is a figure which shows the basic thermoelectric module by embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the cooling unit including the thermoelectric module of FIG. 19 by embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the drawer which uses the thermoelectric cooling unit of FIG. 20 to cool the inside of the drawer by embodiment of this invention. It is an exploded view of the drawer of FIG. It is an exploded view of the drawer which has a cooling system by another embodiment. It is a figure which shows one method which enables opening of the lid of a drawer by embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the system of FIG. 24 with one lid open. It is a figure which shows the structure of FIG. 24 in more detail. FIG. 5 illustrates another technique for locking and unlocking a lid of a distribution drawer according to another embodiment of the invention. FIG. 5 shows the system of FIG. 27 with the lid in the open position. It is a figure which shows the refrigerated drawer by another embodiment of this invention. It is a partial lower view of the drawer of FIG. It is a figure which shows the refrigerated drawer by another embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows how the two actuators can be attached to the outside of the insulation material of a drawer by embodiment of this invention. FIG. 5 shows a compartment with a lid and a magnetic latch according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 1 shows a distribution cabinet 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Cabinet 100 includes a plurality of compartments including drawers 101a, 101b, and 107, and compartments accessible through doors 102a and 102b. The distribution cabinet 100 also includes a computerized controller 103 and one or more data input devices such as a keyboard 104 and a keypad 105. The display 106 enables information to be transmitted to the user of the distribution cabinet 100. According to an embodiment of the invention, the drawer 107 includes a refrigeration system, as discussed in more detail below. In some embodiments, the distribution cabinet may also include other devices.

The device embodying the present invention can be used in a variety of applications, but embodiments can be particularly useful in the medical field. For example, the distribution cabinet 100 can hold drugs or medical supplies, facilitating accurate distribution and tracking of drugs or other medical supplies.

The computerized controller 103 may include a processor, memory, input / output interfaces, and other components. The controller 103 can remotely communicate with other computerized systems such as medical recording systems, inventory and accounting systems, and the like.

Various storage compartments, such as drawers 101a, 101b, and 107, may be under the control of controller 103. For example, each of the drawers 101a, 101b, and 107 can include an electronically controllable locking mechanism and can only be opened under the control of controller 103. Further, the controller 103 can store information about which article is stored in which compartment of the drug storage cabinet 100. In one typical basic use scenario, the healthcare professional is in the care of the healthcare professional using a keyboard 104 or another input device and requires medication during the employee's current rounds. You can enter the identification of the patient to do. The controller 103 can access the patient's medical file and determine what medication was prescribed to the patient. The controller 103 can then only allow access to one or more withdrawals containing the drug prescribed for the patient. Certain compartments, such as bottles in the appropriate drawers, can be highlighted, for example with a lit indicator, to attract healthcare professionals to the appropriate medication. The healthcare professional can then retrieve the patient's prescribed medication. The level of control performed by controller 103 can help prevent drug and medication errors by reducing the likelihood that healthcare professionals will retrieve the wrong drug from the drug distribution cabinet 100. In addition, the controller 103 can document and record which drug has been distributed and transfer that information to the inventory and accounting system via a wired or wireless electronic network.

Many other features and functions are also possible. For example, the healthcare professional can also enter his or her identification, and the controller 103 can only provide access to the drugs and supplies that the healthcare professional is authorized to access.

The drug distribution cabinet 100 is shown as a stationary device, but the present invention is not limited thereto. Cabinets according to other embodiments may be portable, for example, to facilitate the transportation of drugs and supplies from a central supply store to a particular ward or department of the facility. It will be appreciated that certain arrangements of cabinet drawers, doors, or other features according to embodiments of the present invention may be modified. For example, some cabinets or distribution carts that embody the present invention may only use drawers. Many different size and style compartments can be used depending on the size of the material to be distributed and the level of security required for them.

Cabinets embodying the present invention can include guides or mounting mechanisms that are spaced apart by a standardized distance, and different drawers may span different multiples of the spacing distance. Drawers that span only one spacing distance can be referred to as "single" height drawers. Drawers that span two spacing distances can be referred to as "double" height drawers. Triple height and higher drawers are also possible. A cabinet, such as the cabinet 100, may consist of a combination of drawer heights depending on the size of the item to be stored. In the example of FIG. 1, the drawer 101b is a single height drawer and the drawer 107 is a triple height drawer.

FIG. 2 shows a portable distribution device 200 capable of embodying the present invention. Preferably, the portable distribution device 200 can perform the same functions as described above for the distribution cabinet 100. Distributor 200 includes wheels 201 that allow healthcare professionals to move the device from room to room. The distributor 200 includes one or more batteries to power a computerized controller that performs tasks similar to the controller 103 described above and to power other functions of the distributor 200. obtain. In addition, the distributor 200 is preferably at a convenient time to charge the battery and to power the device for a period of time without using the battery when in a particular location. It can be connected to the main power supply. Various input / output devices 202 may be provided and may be specifically adapted for portability, for example, to minimize power consumption. The distributor 200 also includes a plurality of drawers 203 of various heights. Each drawer 203 may include a visual indicator 204 for guiding the user to a particular drawer 203, as described in more detail below. One or more of the drawers 203 may include a refrigeration system according to an embodiment of the present invention. Other drawers in cabinet 100 may not be refrigerated.

Additional types of distribution units that can embody the invention or include features that can be used in embodiments of the invention are the following commonly owned US patents and patent applications, ie, August 7, 2001. US Pat. No. 6,272,394 issued to Lipps, US Pat. No. 6,385,505 issued to Lipps on May 7, 2002, issued to Lipps on July 6, 2004. US Pat. No. 6,760,643, US Pat. No. 5,805,455 issued to Lipps on September 8, 1998, US Pat. No. 6,609 issued to Lipps on August 19, 2003. , 047, US Pat. No. 5,805,456 issued to Highham et al. On September 8, 1998, US Pat. No. 5,745,366 issued to Highham et al. On April 28, 1998, US Pat. No. 5,905,653 issued to Highham et al. On May 18, 1999, US Patent No. 5,927,540 issued to Godlewski on July 27, 1999, March 21, 2000. US Pat. No. 6,039,467 issued to Holmes on Sunday, US Patent No. 6,640,159 issued to Holmes et al. On October 28, 2003, to Arnold et al. On November 21, 2000. U.S. Patent No. 6,151,536 issued, U.S. Patent No. 5,377,864 issued to Blechl et al. On January 3, 1995, U.S. Patent issued to Blechl on March 2, 1993. Nos. 5,190,185, US Patent No. 6,975,922 issued to Duncan et al. On December 13, 2005, and US Patent No. 7,571 issued to Duncan et al. On August 4, 2009. , 024, US Pat. No. 7,835,819 issued to Duncan et al. On November 16, 2010, US Pat. No. 6,011,999, 2008 issued to Holmes on January 4, 2000. US Pat. No. 7,348,884 issued to Highham on March 25, 2010, US Patent No. 7,675,421 issued to Highham on March 9, 2010, January 9, 2001. US Pat. No. 6,170,929 issued to Wilson et al., US Pat. No. 8,126,590 issued to Vahlberg et al. On February 28, 2012, issued to Levy et al. On October 2, 2012. US Pat. No. 8,280,550, and Payd published on August 9, 2012. It is described in US Patent Application Publication No. 2012/0203377 of ar et al., The contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

FIG. 3 shows in more detail a front upward perspective view of the drawer 107 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The drawer 107 has a front side surface 301, a rear side surface 302, a right side surface 303, and a left side surface 304 when viewed from the front side surface 301. The front side surface 301 is the side that appears in front of the cabinet when the drawer 107 is attached to the cabinet, from which the user accesses the drawer 107. The drawer 107 attaches the drawer 107 to a cabinet such as the cabinet 100 so that the drawer slides open (in the direction of the front side 301) and closes (with the drawer 107 substantially completely inside the cabinet). It may include a guide 305 that enables it. One or more fascia pieces 306 can provide a decorative appearance in front of the drawer 107 and can provide an undercut handle for the user to grip when opening the drawer 107, in more detail below. It may include other features to describe.

The anterior portion 307 of the drawer 107 includes a plurality of compartments, which are covered by a lid 308 in FIG. The rear portion 309 accommodates parts of the refrigeration system described in more detail below.

FIG. 4 shows a rear upper perspective view of the drawer 107. A mechanical latch 401 that can interact with cabinet 100 may be provided. For example, the controller 103 may control the latch such that the drawer 107 can only be opened if the worker requesting access to the drawer 107 provides the appropriate credentials. The lid 308 may be controllable as well, so that only the storage area for holding the required drug or supplies can be opened by the worker.

It is possible to provide various electrical connectors 402 to which cables (not shown) can be attached so that the drawer 107 can receive power from the cabinet 100 and can communicate with the controller 103.

5 and 6 show an upward exploded view and a downward exploded view of the drawer 107 according to the embodiment of the present invention. The interior of the drawer 107 is essentially surrounded by insulation including a side insulation panel 501, a rear insulation panel 502, a front insulation panel 503, and a bottom insulation panel 504. The insulation panels 501-504 can be formed of any suitable insulation material, such as a moldable foam insulation such as polyisocyanurate, polystyrene, polyurethane, or another type of insulation. Although four different insulation panels are shown, the insulation may be formed by more or less different segments. For example, the front insulation panel 503 may be integrally molded with the bottom insulation panel 504. Other combinations are possible. (The heat insulating material on the upper surface of the drawer 107 will be described below.)
The compartment 505 is in a chamber formed by insulating panels 501-504. The compartment 505 is made of any suitable material and can be defined by a partition formed by any suitable process, but is conveniently molded from a polymer such as polycarbonate, ABS, another polymer, or a blend of polymers. May be good. In other embodiments, the compartment 505 may be made of a metal such as stainless steel, aluminum, or another suitable metal. The compartment 505 may be integrally formed from a single piece of material, or separated from each other and placed in the drawer 107 in any viable combination. The compartment 505 is covered with a lid 308.

The evaporator 506 is located between the compartment 505 and the bottom insulation panel 504. The evaporator 506 is part of a refrigeration system integrated into the drawer 107. The evaporator 506 rolls, for example, two metal sheets marked with a flow path pattern and then expands the flow path to form a network or meandering path through the flow path for the flow of refrigerant. It can be a roll bond evaporator formed by the above. The evaporator 506 absorbs thermal energy from the inside of the drawer 107 due to its low temperature and carries it outside the inside of the drawer 107 to cool the inside of the drawer 107 including the compartment 505.

Other components of the refrigeration system include a compressor 507 and a condenser 508, along with an expansion valve (not shown). These components form the components that implement the traditional refrigeration cycle. The refrigeration system preferably uses a refrigerant that does not contain chlorinated fluorocarbons (CFCs).

The fan 509 draws air through the condenser 508 to cool the refrigerant after the refrigerant is heated by the evaporator 506 and compressed by the compressor 507, and releases thermal energy to the outside of the cabinet 100.

A glycol bottle 510 may be provided, which, along with its own lid 512, may fit in a special compartment 511 inside the drawer 107. Preferably, the temperature sensor is submerged in glycol in the bottle 510 and connected to the controller 103 so that the controller 103 can monitor the temperature inside the drawer 107. The glycol serves, for example, to buffer the sensor from sudden fluctuations in apparent temperature that can be caused by the opening of the drawer 107 from the cabinet 100. In some embodiments, the controller 103 can signal the refrigeration system to cycle on and off based on the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor.

FIG. 7 shows a lower perspective view of the drawer 107 with the bottom cover removed and the bottom insulation panel 504 exposed. In this exemplary embodiment, the bottom insulation panel 504 has a funnel-shaped air flow path 701 molded therein. When the drawer 107 is fully assembled, the bottom panel (not shown) forms the remaining surface of the air flow path 701. Air can enter the air flow path 701 through an opening on the anterior side surface of the drawer 107, for example, an opening hidden in one of the fascia pieces 306. The funnel shape of the air flow path 701 guides air to the condenser 508 under the propulsion force of a fan 509 (not visible in FIG. 7). After flowing through the condenser 508, air is discharged to the environment at the rear of the cabinet 100.

This arrangement of airflow serves multiple purposes. First, it provides cooling air to the condenser 508 to cool the refrigerant in the refrigeration system as part of the refrigeration cycle. Air is exhausted from the rear of the cabinet 100 rather than from the front, which may be preferable for user comfort. Second, the airflow under the insulation panel 504 can evaporate and expel condensation that may form under the insulation panel 504. The standoffs 702 can hold the rear cover away from the insulation panel 504, allowing at least a small amount of air 703 to flow substantially across the underside of the insulation panel 504.

FIG. 8 shows an upper rear perspective view of the drawer 107 according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 8 is a diagram similar to FIG. 4 in which the upper heat insulating panel 801 is added. The upper insulation panel 801 may be shaped and sized to slide into an open recess left on top of the drawer 107 by other components. For example, the upper insulation panel 801 may fit between the tops of the side insulation panels 501 and may come into contact with the front insulation panel 503 if the upper insulation panel 801 is fully installed on the drawer 107. The upper insulation panel 801 may be in contact with the rear insulation panel 502 (not visible in FIG. 8) so that the interior of the drawer 107 is substantially wrapped in insulation. The upper insulation panel 108 is preferably attached to the cabinet 100 so that the upper insulation panel 801 remains within the cabinet 100 when the drawer 107 is opened so as not to interfere with access to the compartment of the drawer 107. When the drawer 107 is closed, the upper insulation panel 801 automatically covers the drawer 107 again.

In another embodiment, the top insulation panel 801 can be moved with the drawer 107 when the drawer 107 is opened, and the user simply slides the top insulation panel 801 backwards towards the cabinet 100 to pull out. You can access the inside of 107.

The upper insulation panel 801 may be made of any suitable material, for example, a material similar to or different from that of other insulation panels.
FIG. 9 shows a partial view of a cabinet 100 having a heat insulating panel 801 at a predetermined position above the drawer 107. The drawer directly above the drawer 107 has been removed. When the drawer 107 is opened and closed, the insulation panel 801 stays in place so that the interior of the drawer 107 is accessible when the drawer 107 is open, but completely when the drawer 107 is closed. It is insulated. In the example of FIG. 9, the bracket 901 holds the insulation panel 801 in place within the cabinet 100, and the drawer 107 slides under the insulation panel 801. However, other arrangements are possible.

For example, FIG. 10 shows another embodiment in which the insulation panel 801 is slidably trapped in a groove 1001 on the side surface of the drawer 107. The insulation panel 801 may be attached to the rear wall of the cabinet 100 so that the insulation panel 801 does not slide out of the cabinet 100 when the drawer 107 is opened. In other embodiments, the insulation panel 801 may simply be pushed back by the user to expose the interior of the drawer 107 when the drawer 107 is open.

Since the interior of the drawer 107 is cold, it may be desirable to keep the electronic and electromechanical components as far away from the interior of the drawer 107 as possible to avoid potential cold problems. For example, FIG. 11 shows an upper perspective view of the top of the drawer 107 from which many components have been removed to clarify the mechanism for achieving computer control of access to the individual storage bins of the drawer 107. .. FIG. 12 shows a part of FIG. 11 in more detail. In this example, the lid 1101 includes a lever 1102 configured to rotate with the lid 1101 about a shaft 1103. At the position shown, the blade 1104 connected to the armature of the solenoid 1105 prevents the lever 1102 from rotating, and thus the lid 1101 from rotating. In this state, the bin under the lid 1101 is locked.

However, when energy is applied to the solenoid 1105, for example under the control of the controller 103, the blade 1104 is retracted, allowing the lever 1102 and lid 1101 to rotate to the open position. FIG. 13 shows the lid 1101 in the open position. For example, the user can use the finger pull 1301 to lift the lid 1101 when the solenoid 1105 releases the lid. When the user finishes accessing the bin under the lid 1101, the user can simply push the lid 1101 back into the closed position. The lever 1102 interacts with the slanted top of the blade 1104 to deflect the blade 1104 downwards, allowing the lever 1102 to pass through. When the lever 1102 passes through the blade 1104, the blade 1104 returns to its normal upper position under the action of a spring (not visible in FIG. 13) and can lock the lid 1101 to the closed position.

Solenoid 1105 is just one example of the type of actuator that can be used to control access to the compartment of the drawer 107 and is another type of actuator, such as a magnetic actuator, a motor with a suitable link mechanism, or the like. Types of actuators can be used.

The architecture of the drawer 107 can at least partially protect the solenoid 1105 and its driving electronics from the cold environment inside the drawer 107. FIG. 14 shows an upper rear perspective view of the drawer 107 with some components removed, and FIG. 15 shows a partial enlarged view of FIG. The printed circuit board 1401 is attached to the side surface 1402 of the drawer 107. A plurality of solenoids 1105 are attached to the circuit board 1401 and connected to another circuit (not shown) via the connector 1501 and finally to the controller 103. Similar components may be attached to the inner surface of the opposite side surface 1403 of the drawer 107, but are not visible in FIG.

Multiple sensors 1502 may be provided to provide positive feedback when one of the lids 308, lever 1102, is in the closed position. A light emitting diode (LED) 1503 may be present to visually indicate the status of a particular compartment through a light pipe 1504 extending above the drawer 107 and may be controllable by the controller 103.

With the printed circuit board 1401 including the solenoid 1105 in place, the insulation of the drawer 107 can be placed in place as shown in FIG. For example, the side insulation panel 501 includes a plurality of recesses 1601 for accommodating a printed circuit board 1401 and components above it, including a solenoid 1105. When the side insulation panel 501 is in place on the drawer 107, the printed circuit board 1401 and related components are located outside the refrigerated interior of the drawer 107. The various slots 1602 of the insulation panel 501 are as small as possible to provide access to the components on the circuit board 1401 and not unnecessarily impair the insulation effect of the insulation panel 501.

In some embodiments, a manual override mechanism is provided to manually unlock the compartment of the drawer 107 without relying on the controller 103. This feature can be useful, for example, in the event of a power outage or other occasions when the controller 103 is unable to open the compartment. 17 and 18 show an example of an override mechanism. The override plate 1701 fits under the insulation (not shown) at the bottom of the drawer 107 and includes a riser 1702 on the side of the drawer 107 corresponding to the solenoid 1105. The riser 1702 may extend into the temperature-controlled interior of the drawer 107 and pass through a slit in the lower insulation panel. The override plate 1701 may be accessible from the bottom of the drawer 107. For example, the user can insert a finger through the hole 1703 in the bottom plate 1704 of the drawer 107 to actuate the override plate 1701 against the spring 1705.

As best seen in FIG. 18, when the override plate 1701 is activated, the tilt mechanism 1801 of each riser 1702 interacts with the pin 1802 on the armature 1803 of the corresponding solenoid 1105, pulling the armature 1803 and the blade 1104 downward. .. With the blade 1104 retracted, the corresponding lid is unlocked as described above and shown in FIG.

In another embodiment, the distributor uses a thermoelectric refrigeration system rather than a refrigeration system with a compressor and condenser as described above.
FIG. 19 shows a basic thermoelectric module 1900. The plurality of columns 1901 are made of alternating N-type and P-type semiconductors. The column 1901 is electrically connected in series between the electrodes 1902 and is thermally parallel between the high temperature side plate 1903 and the low temperature side plate 1904. When a DC voltage is applied to the electrode 1902, heat is transferred from the low temperature side plate 1904 to the high temperature side plate 1903, cooling the low temperature side plate 1904 and warming the high temperature side plate 1903. The plates 1903 and 1904 are made of a thermally conductive material. Module 1900 can be used alone or in combination with other similar modules to cool or heat the space. Thermoelectric cooling has the advantage that no moving parts are required. Thermoelectric modules such as the Module 1900 may be capable of transporting up to about 15-30 watts or more of heat per square inch (645.16 square millimeters) of the module, measured at zero temperature difference.

FIG. 20 shows a cooling unit 2000 according to an embodiment of the present invention for cooling the space 2001 on one side of the panel 2002. The plurality of thermoelectric modules 1900 are thermally contacted and sandwiched between the finned low temperature side heat sink 2003 and the finned high temperature side heat sink 2004. The thermoelectric module 1900 is arranged to transport heat from the low temperature side heat sink 2003 to the high temperature side heat sink 2004 and is energized, thereby cooling the low temperature side heat sink 2003. The low temperature side fan 2005 is configured to forcibly send air from the cooled space 2001 to the fins of the low temperature side heat sink 2003. The air is cooled by contact with the cold heat sink 2003 (cooled by the thermoelectric module 1900), discharged through the fins of the cold heat sink 2003, and returned to the cooled space 2001. Therefore, the air in the cooled space 2001 is further cooled.

The high temperature side fan 2006 is configured to draw air from the fins of the high temperature side heat sink 2004. The air is heated by contact with the high temperature side heat sink 2004 and is discharged to the high temperature side space of the system through the fins of the high temperature side heat sink 2004.

It will be appreciated that the direction of airflow through either or both of the fans 2005 and 2006 can be reversed from the direction shown in FIG.
FIG. 21 shows a drawer 2100 that uses a thermoelectric cooling unit 2000 to cool the inside of a drawer according to an embodiment of the present invention. The drawer 2100 is in many respects similar to the drawer 107 described above in that the drawer 2100 is configured to be inserted into a distribution cabinet such as the distribution cabinet 100. The drawer 2100 has a plurality of compartments for storing items, the compartments being covered with individually lockable lids 2101. Any suitable number of compartments may be provided, depending on the size of the drawer 2100 and the size of the items to be stored in the drawer 2100. The compartments may be of different sizes or all may be the same size.

FIG. 22 shows an exploded view of the drawer 2100. The interior of the drawer 2100 is preferably lined with insulation 2201 to reduce the amount of energy required to cool the interior space. The thermoelectric cooling unit 2000 is attached to any convenient wall of the drawer 2100, in this example the rear wall 2202. The thermoelectric cooling unit 2000 draws its power from the electronic equipment (not shown) of the drawer 2100 and finally draws its power from the cabinet 100. The thermoelectric cooling unit 2000 is arranged so as to transport heat from the inside of the drawer 2100 to the space outside the drawer 2100. The fan of the thermoelectric cooling unit 2000 circulates the air inside the drawer 2100 to cool the inside of the drawer 2100, provides an air flow to the outer heat sink of the thermoelectric cooling unit 2000, and discharges heat to the outside of the drawer 2100. To work.

In some embodiments, the fans of the cooling unit 2000 outside the drawer 2100 are arranged, ducted, or otherwise arranged to provide airflow under or around the insulated space of the drawer 2100. Can be configured. For example, in addition to providing airflow over the heat sink of the thermoelectric cooling unit 2000, the fan provides airflow under the insulated space of the drawer 2100, similar to the airflow shown in FIG. It can help prevent condensation on the bottom of the drawer 2100. 29 and 30 show an embodiment in which the cooling unit 2000 is encapsulated in a shroud 2901, the shroud 2901 being connected to a plenum 3001 under insulation 2201 at its lower end 2902. The external fan of the cooling unit 2000 creates an air flow 2903 outside the shroud 2901. FIG. 30 shows a lower view of the drawer 2100 with the bottom cover removed. As seen in FIGS. 29 and 30, the airflow 2903 passes under the insulation 2201 and then ducts upwards to the shroud 2901 and exits the surrounding environment.

Any other suitable configuration can be used to generate airflow under or around the insulated space of the drawer 2100. For example, in other embodiments, two separate fans can be provided, one for creating airflow under or around an insulated space, and one for heat from the cooling unit 2000. Is for discharging.

Referencing FIG. 22 again, compartment 2203 is enclosed separately. In the example of drawer 2100, compartment 2203 is molded into unit 2204, but any suitable method of defining individual compartment spaces may be used. The walls of the compartment 2203 may be perforated by openings such as the openings 2205 so that air can pass through the walls and compartments and circulate within the drawer 2100. The lower surface of the lid 2101 may include a downward rib 2206 that projects into the compartment when the lid 2101 is closed. Therefore, the rib 2206 prevents complete filling of the compartment 2203. The top of the compartment remains substantially open, allowing air flow throughout the drawer 2100.

As in other embodiments, the temperature sensor in the drawer 2100 preferably provides a controller, such as controller 103, with a signal indicating the temperature of the drawer 2100. The temperature sensor can be submerged in a glycol bottle or other buffer if desired. The controller 103 can cycle the power to the thermoelectric cooling unit 2000 as needed to maintain an essentially constant temperature in the drawer 2100.

The drawers that embody the present invention can be used for any purpose, but may be particularly suitable for storing vaccines. US federal guidelines stipulate that vaccines should be stored at temperatures between 2 ° C and 8 ° C.

The configurations of FIGS. 21 and 22 can have several beneficial aspects. For example, thermoelectric cooling systems are easy to install and operate, have no moving parts other than fans, and do not contain liquids that could leak and cause damage in the event of a failure. In addition, the thermoelectric cooling unit 2000 is smaller than the compressor-based system described above, so thermoelectrically cooled drawers are larger than comparable size drawers cooled using a compressor-based system. It can have a large storage capacity.

FIG. 23 shows an exploded view of a drawer 2300 having a cooling system according to another embodiment. The drawer 2300 includes a thermoelectric cooling unit 2301 similar to the thermoelectric cooling unit 2000, but the drawer 2300 may not have a fan. Rather than cooling the interior of the drawer with circulating cooling air, the drawer 2300 includes a cooling loop 2302 filled with heat transfer fluid. For example, the cooling loop 2302 may be filled with carbon dioxide (CO ₂ ) at a pressure such that the boiling point of carbon dioxide (CO ₂ ) is approximately drawn to the desired temperature inside the 2300, or slightly lower. It can be a closed loop of other tubes. In some embodiments, the pressure of CO ₂ in the cooling loop 2302 can be about 40 bar (about 40 atmospheres) such that the boiling point of CO ₂ is about 5 ° C. Therefore, the cooling loop 2302 can form a passive heat pipe cooler.

When CO ₂ is cooled by the thermoelectric cooling unit 2301 (via a suitable heat exchanger), the CO ₂ condenses and drops by gravity into a loop located on the floor of the drawer 2300. When CO ₂ circulates through the drawer 2300, the CO ₂ absorbs heat from the inside of the drawer 2300 and boils, cooling the inside of the drawer 2300. The gaseous CO ₂ rises again towards the thermoelectric cooling unit 2301 where it is cooled again to continue the cycle. As in other embodiments, the temperature sensor in the drawer 2300 can provide a signal indicating the temperature in the drawer 2300, whereby the controller cycles the thermoelectric cooling unit 2301 on and off. The desired temperature can be maintained.

Although slightly more complex than the air cooling system of drawer 2100 described above, the system of drawer 2300 can have certain advantages. For example, because it does not depend on the air circulation of the entire drawer 2300, it is not necessary to make a hole in the compartment 2303 and it can be filled to a higher level, so that the dead space is reduced and the capacity of the drawer 2300 is increased. Therefore, lids 2304 may not require ribs on their bottom surfaces to prevent complete filling of compartments 2303.

Other cooling fluids may be used, but CO ₂ or similar substances only release harmless gas to the atmosphere if leaked in the system and are therefore stored in storage cabinet electronics or drawers 2300. It may have the advantage of not damaging the material. Also, the placement of the cooling loop 2302 at the bottom of the drawer 2300 is only an example of a proper loop placement. In other embodiments, the cooling loop 2302 may include a line passing between the compartments 2303, a line along the sides of the drawer 2300, or a line passing through another location or combination of locations. In some embodiments, the cooling loop 2302 may be formed as a roll bond unit similar to the evaporator 506 described above.

It can be noted that during the design of the drawer, condensation may be present on the cold surface of the drawer or near it, regardless of how the drawer according to the embodiments of the present invention is cooled. Condensation tends to form on cold surfaces exposed to air and can be harmful to electronics, electromechanical actuators, or other electrical or mechanical components. Preferably, the insulation surrounding the interior of the drawer is sufficiently insulating so that its outer surface remains above the dew point of the surrounding atmosphere. In that case, any circuit board, electromechanical actuator, or other electrical or mechanical component outside the cooled space has minimal cold air leaks and other insulation gaps. As long as it remains substantially safe against condensation.

However, lids such as the lid 2101 or 2304 must necessarily operate in a cooled space and must operate automatically. In embodiments of the present invention, any electromechanical actuator is placed outside the cooled space and the actuator is coupled to a lid in the cooled space, preferably to minimize cold air leakage. Measures are taken.

FIG. 24 shows one method that allows the lid to be opened in the drawer according to an embodiment of the present invention. Some support structures, wiring, etc. are omitted from the figure for clarity. In this example, the actuator, such as solenoid 2401, may be located outside the cooled space 2402 defined by insulation 2403. Each solenoid 2401 operates electrically in response to a signal from the controller and has a plunger 2404 associated with a linear potentiometer 2405. In the "locked" position, the plunger 2404 extends from the solenoid 2401 and impedes the movement of the slider 2406 of the linear potentiometer 2405. The link mechanism 2407 connects the slider 2406 to the lever 2408 of the lid 2409. If the movement of slider 2406 is blocked, the lid 2409 cannot be opened.

FIG. 25 shows the system of FIG. 24 with the lid 2409 open. The plunger 2404 of the solenoid 2401 is retracted by the action of the solenoid 2401 and releases the slider 2406 so that when the user lifts the lid 2409, it can be moved by the link mechanism 2407. A signal from the linear potentiometer 2405 indicating that the lid 2409 is open may be transmitted to the controller.

Each lid can be provided with a similar solenoid-potentiometer-linkage configuration. In this configuration, the solenoid 2401 and potentiometer 2405 stay outside the cooled space 2402 and are therefore substantially protected from possible condensation. Since only the link mechanism 2407 penetrates the heat insulating material 2403, the opening of the heat insulating material 2403 is small and does not significantly affect the heat insulating effect of the heat insulating material 2403.

The linear potentiometer 2405 may have the advantage of being able to indicate the exact state of the associated lid, eg, the degree to which the lid is open. In other embodiments, a simple light circuit breaker with open or closed lid or other simple binary indicator may be used.

FIG. 26 shows the solenoid configuration of FIG. 24 in more detail. The tilt 2601 of each plunger 2404 allows the slider 2406 to push the plunger 2404 back into the solenoid 2401 when the corresponding lid is closed and is latched in the closed state. In addition, a manual release lever 2602 may be provided on each solenoid, which allows the user to disable (override) the lid locking mechanism and manually open the lid in the event of a power outage or other failure. it can. The manual release lever 2602 may preferably be accessible from the outside of the drawer 2300.

FIG. 27 shows another technique for locking and unlocking the lid of a distribution drawer according to another embodiment of the invention. Rather than using a mechanical link mechanism with rigid components, the system of FIG. 27 uses a covered cable 2701 to connect the lid 2409 to other components of the system. The coated cable 2701 includes a coating 2702, which can penetrate the insulation 2403 and be secured to the insulation 2403. Covered cable 2701 also includes a movable inner wire or cable 2703 that can move axially within the coated 2702. The coated cable 2701 can be of the type often used for bicycle shifters and brake cables. In FIG. 27, the lid 2409 is in the closed position. The stopper 2704 of the cable 2703 is held behind the plunger 2404 of the solenoid 2401 to prevent the lid 2409 from opening. The end of the cable 2703 is wound around a capstan 2705, which is connected to a constant load spring 2706 and a rotary encoder 2707. The constant load spring 2706 maintains the tension of the cable 2703 and holds the lid 2409 in its closed position.

Upon receiving the command to unlock the lid 2409, the solenoid 2401 is energized to retract the plunger 2404. The user can then lift the lid 2409 against the tension of the constant load spring 2706 and remove the desired item from the compartment under the lid 2409. Encoder 2707 can send a signal to the controller that also indicates the position of the capstan 2705, and thus the position of the lid 2409. In other embodiments, a simple light circuit breaker or other binary sensor may be used. Encoders such as the encoder 207 may have the advantage that encoder readings at the closed position of the lid can be recorded after each use, for example when the drawer is returned to the inside of the cabinet. In this way, drift or other effects from cable length can be adjusted, for example with firmware.

FIG. 28 shows the system of FIG. 27 with the lid 2409 in the open position. The plunger 2404 of the solenoid 2401 is retracted, allowing the stopper 2704 to pass through the plunger 2404 when the lid 2409 is opened. Some of the cables 2703 are not wound around the capstan 2705. When the user closes the lid 2409, the spring 2706 helps retract the cable 2703. The stopper 2704 is stationary behind the plunger 2404 and can prevent the lid 2409 from opening until another actuation of the solenoid 2401. Preferably, each lid 2409 has a mechanical detent that holds the lid in its open position despite the tension induced in the cable 2703 by the spring 2706.

Although only one solenoid 2401 and covered cable 2701 are shown in FIGS. 27 and 28, it will be appreciated that a similar configuration can be provided for any lockable lid of the distribution drawer. In addition, support structures, fasteners, and other items have been omitted from FIGS. 27 and 28 for clarity.

The systems of FIGS. 27 and 28, which use a coated cable such as a coated cable 2701, say that the coating 2702 does not need to move relative to the insulation 2403 and therefore can be tightly sealed against the insulation 2403. Can have advantages. In addition, the flexibility of the coated cable 2701 may provide design freedom in the placement of other components, such as solenoid 2401 or other actuators.

FIG. 31 shows an exploded view of the refrigerated drawer 3100 according to another embodiment of the present invention. In some of the above embodiments, individual actuators are located along each of the drawer compartments, for example, as shown in FIGS. 14 and 15. This separates the compartments from each other in the anterior-posterior direction of the drawer, as seen in FIG. 22, creating unused space between the compartments. The use of the types of remote actuators shown in FIG. 24 or 27 allows the compartments to be closer to each other and, as a result, more available in the drawer 3100 compared to some other embodiments. Storage space may be obtained.

In the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 31, the bin is formed by a tray 3101 with a simple, thin partition 3102. The partition 3102 may slide into the groove or notch 3106 of the tray 3101 or may be otherwise arranged. The partition 3102 may be permanently fixed to the tray 3101 or may be removable, for example by solvent binding or permanent snap fitting. In other embodiments, the tray 3101 may be formed with an integral partition, for example by injection molding.

The tray 3101 and partition 3102 may preferably be perforated by an opening such as an opening 3103 so that air can circulate within the drawer 3100 and pass through the walls and compartments of the tray 3101. The lid 3104 of the drawer 3100 may include a downward rib 3105 that projects into the compartment when the lid 3104 is closed. Therefore, the rib 3105 prevents complete filling of the compartment. The top of the compartment remains substantially open, allowing air flow throughout the drawer 3100.

The lids 3104 may be placed closer to each other in the anteroposterior direction of the drawer 3100 than in some other embodiments. The thinness of the partition 3102 allows the resulting compartment in the tray 3101 to be larger than in other embodiments, increasing the storage capacity of the drawer 3100.

FIG. 32 shows how two actuators can be attached to the outside of the insulation 3201 of the drawer 3100 to actuate two of the lids 3104.
In other embodiments, a magnetic latching system can be used for the lid of a refrigerated drawer. FIG. 33 shows a compartment 3301 with a lid 3302. The electromagnet 3303 is attached to one corner of the compartment 3301, and the permanent magnet 3304 is attached to the lid 3302. When the lid 3302 is closed, the permanent magnets 3304 are placed on the electromagnets 3303, preferably in contact with the electromagnets 3303. In the absence of current through the electromagnet 3303, the lid 3302 remains closed by the magnetic attraction between the permanent magnet 3304 and the electromagnet 3303. The permanent magnet 3304 is preferably strong enough that the lid 3302 can be considered locked. For example, the permanent magnet 3304 can be attracted to the electromagnet 3303 with a force of up to 5 pounds (2.268 kilograms) or more, making it difficult to open the lid 3302 without tools.

In order to unlock the lid 3302, a controller such as the controller 103 causes an electric current to flow through the electromagnet 3303 in a direction that causes a repulsive force against the permanent magnet 3304. With sufficient current, the permanent magnet 3304 can overcome the attractive force on the electromagnet 3303 and the lid 3302 can be easily lifted. In some embodiments, the current level is chosen to be slightly less than the current required to completely overcome the attractive force, so that the lid 3302 can be opened with only a small lifting force. In other embodiments, the current is high enough to completely overcome the attractive force between the two magnets and the lid 3302 can be opened by the repulsive force of the electromagnet 3303.

In some embodiments, the positions of the electromagnet 3303 and the permanent magnet 3304 can be reversed. In other embodiments, permanent magnets may not be needed. Rather, the permanent magnet 3304 can be replaced with a simple plate made of ferromagnetic material, and the lid 3302 can be locked by passing an electric current through the electromagnet 3303. To unlock the lid 3302 in this configuration, simply stop the flow of current. However, while this alternative configuration may be feasible, it has the drawback of always carrying current except when the lid is unlocked. In addition, the lid can be unlocked in the event of a power outage. In a preferred embodiment of FIG. 33, which includes a permanent magnet 3304, the lid is locked by default and does not carry current in the locked state.

As mentioned above, it may be possible to use a tool to force the lid 3302 out of its locked state. Preferably, a detection circuit is provided to detect such intrusion. For example, a Hall effect sensor may be placed near the electromagnet 3303 to detect the magnetic field of the permanent magnet 3304 when the lid 3302 is closed. If the sensor detects that the magnetic field has disappeared (or has decreased sufficiently) when the electromagnet 3303 is not energized, it can be assumed that the lid 3302 has been pried open and an alarm or warning can be issued. For example, an audible alarm may be sounded at the location of the cabinet, or an electronic message may be forwarded via the controller 103 to the appropriate contact for investigation.

In other embodiments, the electromagnet 3303 may be loosely attached to the compartment 3301, so that the lid 3302 can be lifted slightly while the compartment 3301 remains locked. The permissible movement is preferably sufficient to be detected by any detection circuit, but not sufficient to allow access to the locked compartment. This feature can be used in "replenishment" mode. A user authorized to do so, such as a pharmacy technician responsible for replenishing the compartment, can put the cabinet in replenishment mode. In this mode, a slight lift of one of the lids informs the controller via a sensor that the technician wants to open that particular compartment for refilling. The controller then unlocks the compartment. This feature allows replenishment technicians to quickly open compartments as needed without having to enter information into the controller. When the replenishment is complete, the technician preferably exits the replenishment mode, whereby the compartment remains locked until the distribution of the item is properly requested by the user.

The configuration of FIG. 33 places at least some electrical or electronic components in a refrigerated space. For example, the electromagnet 3303 is in a refrigerated drawer and can be mounted on a printed circuit board under compartment 3301. The substrate may also hold closure sensors, lights, or other elements. Preferably, any printed circuit board and associated electronic components are wrapped in a waterproof conformal coating to avoid degradation or damage due to condensation.

It should be understood that all feasible combinations of features disclosed herein are also considered to be disclosed.
The present invention has been described in detail for the purpose of clarification and understanding. However, it will be understood that certain changes and amendments may be made within the appended claims.

Claims (55)

A device for distributing items
With the cabinet
A drawer in the cabinet, the drawer containing one or more compartments for storing items, and a drawer.
A refrigerating system in the drawer, the refrigerating system is configured to keep the one or more compartments of the drawer at a temperature lower than the temperature of the environment surrounding the cabinet. When,
A device comprising insulation on the sides of the drawer and insulation under the one or more compartments. The device of claim 1, further comprising a computerized controller coupled to the drawer, wherein the controller controls access to the drawer. A temperature probe is further provided in the drawer, which provides a signal indicating the temperature in the drawer to the computerized controller, which provides information about the temperature of the drawer. The device according to claim 2, provided to the user of the device. The device of claim 3, further comprising a temperature buffer surrounding the temperature probe. It further comprises one or more actuators that are controllable by the computerized controller and are coupled to the lids of each of the one or more compartments, the one or more actuators being the sides of the drawer. 2. The device of claim 2, located outside the interior of the drawer as defined by the insulation in and the insulation under the one or more compartments. The device of claim 5, wherein the one or more actuators include one or more solenoids. The one or more actuators are located outside the interior of the drawer as defined by the insulation on the sides of the drawer and the insulation under the one or more compartments. The apparatus according to claim 5, which is attached to the printed circuit board of the above. Further comprising one or more lights corresponding to at least some of the one or more compartments, the controller determines that a particular compartment should be accessed.
Actuating one of the actuators corresponding to the particular compartment to unlock the particular compartment.
The device of claim 7, wherein the device is configured to illuminate one of the lights corresponding to the particular compartment. 8. The device of claim 8, further comprising an override mechanism accessible from the outside of the drawer, wherein the override mechanism mechanically moves the one or more actuators to manually unlock the compartment. A heat insulating panel is further provided in the cabinet, the heat insulating panel is arranged above the drawer when the drawer is closed and is in the cabinet, and the heat insulating panel is open when the drawer is open. The device of claim 1, which remains in the cabinet. The device of claim 1, further comprising an upper insulation panel coupled to the drawer, wherein the upper insulation panel is slidable relative to the drawer so as to expose the one or more compartments. The refrigeration system comprises a compressor and condenser located at the rear of the drawer and evaporation placed between the one or more compartments of the drawer and the insulation under the one or more compartments. The device according to claim 1, which includes a container. The apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the evaporator is a roll bond evaporator. 12. The device of claim 12, further comprising a fan, wherein the fan moves air from outside the drawer through the condenser. The drawer defines an air flow path through which the fan drives air, which surrounds the cabinet on the front side surface of the cabinet so that air enters the air flow path at the front of the cabinet. 14. The device of claim 14, wherein the fan is open to the environment and exhausts the air from the rear of the cabinet. 15. The device of claim 15, wherein the air flow path is at least partially defined in insulation under the one or more compartments. The device of claim 1, further comprising one or more additional drawers, wherein at least one of the one or more additional drawers is not refrigerated. It ’s a drawer,
With the outer shell
Insulation that defines the temperature-controlled interior of the drawer and
A refrigerating system having a compressor and a condenser located in the drawer but outside the temperature-controlled interior of the drawer and having an evaporator located inside the temperature-controlled interior of the drawer.
With a partition defining one or more compartments inside the drawer's temperature controlled
With one or more lids covering the one or more compartments,
An electrical interface for receiving power and control signals,
With one or more actuators coupled to said one or more lids to lock and unlock said one or more compartments in response to control signals received via said electrical interface. With a drawer. 18. The drawer of claim 18, wherein the one or more actuators are located outside the temperature-controlled interior of the drawer. 18. The drawer of claim 18, further comprising one or more lights corresponding to the one or more compartments, the lights responding to control signals received via the electrical interface. The air intake at the front of the drawer
With an air flow path that is at least partially located in an insulating panel underneath the temperature controlled interior of the drawer,
18. The drawer of claim 18, further comprising a fan that draws air into the air intake and exhausts the air from the rear side surface of the drawer through the air flow path and through the condenser. 21. The drawer according to claim 21, wherein the air intake is hidden in a handle on the front surface of the drawer. It ’s a drawer,
With the outer shell
With the insulation defining the insulated interior of the drawer,
The air intake on the first surface of the drawer and
The exhaust port on the second surface of the drawer and
With a fan, the fan draws air into the intake port, exhausts the air from the exhaust port, and the air is at least partially defined by the heat insulating material between the intake port and the exhaust port. A drawer that flows through the air flow path. 23. The drawer of claim 23, further comprising a refrigeration system that cools the insulated interior of the drawer, the fan allowing air from the outside of the drawer to flow through the condenser of the refrigeration system. 23. The drawer according to claim 23, wherein the first surface of the drawer is the front portion of the drawer, and the air intake is hidden in a handle on the front side surface of the drawer. A device for distributing items
With the cabinet
A drawer in the cabinet, the drawer containing one or more compartments for storing items, and a drawer.
A cooling system within the drawer, wherein the cooling system is configured to keep the one or more compartments of the drawer at a temperature lower than the temperature of the environment surrounding the cabinet. When,
A device comprising insulation on the sides of the drawer and insulation under the one or more compartments. The device of claim 1, wherein the cooling system includes a compressor, a condenser, and an evaporator. The device according to claim 1, wherein the cooling system is a thermoelectric cooling system. 28. The apparatus of claim 28, wherein the thermoelectric cooling system further comprises a fan configured to circulate air in the drawer. 28. The apparatus of claim 28, wherein the thermoelectric cooling system further comprises a fan configured to dissipate heat from the thermoelectric cooling unit and create an air flow under or around the insulation of the drawer. 29. 29, wherein at least some of the compartments are partially defined by a perforated wall, which allows circulating air to pass through the wall and the compartment. The device described. 31. The device of claim 31, wherein the lid of at least some compartments in which the wall is perforated comprises a downward rib that projects into the compartment when the lid is closed. 28. The device of claim 28, further comprising a computerized controller coupled to the drawer, the controller controlling access to the drawer. 33. The apparatus of claim 33, further comprising a temperature probe in the drawer, the temperature probe providing a signal indicating the temperature in the drawer to the computerized controller. It further comprises one or more actuators that are controllable by the computerized controller and are coupled to the lids of each of the one or more compartments, the one or more actuators being the sides of the drawer. 33. The apparatus of claim 33, which is located outside the interior of the drawer as defined by the insulation in and the insulation under the one or more compartments. 33. The device of claim 33, further comprising magnetic latches in at least some of the compartments, which are controlled by the computerized controller to lock and unlock the lids of the respective compartments. .. Each of the magnetic latches includes a permanent magnet fixed to the lid of the respective compartment and an electromagnet fixed to the wall of the compartment so that the permanent magnet contacts the electromagnet when the lid is closed.
36. The device of claim 36, wherein the controller unlocks the compartment by passing an electric current through the electromagnet so that the electromagnet repels the permanent magnet. 35. The apparatus of claim 35, wherein the one or more actuators include one or more solenoids. 35. The apparatus of claim 35, further comprising one or more sensors configured to sense the position of each lid of the one or more compartments. Each of the sensors is located outside the interior of the drawer as defined by the insulation on the side of the drawer and the insulation under the one or more compartments and is coupled to its respective lid. The device according to claim 39. 40. The device of claim 40, wherein each of the sensors is coupled to their lid via a link mechanism through the insulation of the drawer. 40. The device of claim 40, wherein each of the sensors is coupled to their lid via a covered cable that passes through the insulation of the drawer. Further comprising one or more lights corresponding to at least some of the one or more compartments, the controller determines that a particular compartment should be accessed.
Actuating one of the actuators corresponding to the particular compartment to unlock the particular compartment.
35. The apparatus of claim 35, which is configured to illuminate one of the lights corresponding to the particular compartment. A claim that further comprises an override mechanism accessible from the outside of the drawer, which mechanically moves the one or more actuators to manually unlock one or more of the compartments. Item 35. 28. The device of claim 28, wherein the thermoelectric cooling system comprises a closed cooling loop that includes a heat transfer fluid. 45. The apparatus of claim 45, wherein the heat transfer fluid is maintained at a pressure such that its boiling point is approximately the desired temperature inside the drawer. 46. The apparatus of claim 46, wherein the heat transfer fluid is maintained at a pressure such that its boiling point is between 2 ° C and 8 ° C. The device according to claim 45, wherein the heat transfer fluid is carbon dioxide. 45. The device of claim 45, wherein the thermoelectric cooling system comprising the closed cooling loop and the heat transfer fluid forms a heat pipe that operates by natural convection. It ’s a drawer,
With the outer shell
Insulation that defines the temperature-controlled interior of the drawer and
A thermoelectric cooling system located on the side wall of the drawer and configured to keep the inside of the drawer at a temperature lower than the temperature of the environment surrounding the drawer.
With a set of walls defining one or more compartments inside the drawer's temperature controlled
With one or more lids covering the one or more compartments,
An electrical interface for receiving power and control signals,
With one or more actuators coupled to said one or more lids to lock and unlock said one or more compartments in response to control signals received via said electrical interface. With a drawer. The drawer of claim 50, wherein the one or more actuators are located outside the temperature-controlled interior of the drawer. The drawer of claim 50, further comprising one or more lights corresponding to the one or more compartments, wherein the lights respond to a control signal received via the electrical interface. The drawer of claim 50, wherein the thermoelectric cooling system is configured to circulate cooled air inside the drawer. The drawer of claim 50, wherein the thermoelectric cooling system includes a closed cooling loop that includes a heat transfer fluid. 54. The drawer of claim 54, wherein the heat transfer fluid is carbon dioxide maintained at a pressure such that its boiling point is between 2 ° C and 8 ° C.