WO2012103029A2 - Tamper-evident fastener - Google Patents

Tamper-evident fastener Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO2012103029A2
WO2012103029A2 PCT/US2012/022256 US2012022256W WO2012103029A2 WO 2012103029 A2 WO2012103029 A2 WO 2012103029A2 US 2012022256 W US2012022256 W US 2012022256W WO 2012103029 A2 WO2012103029 A2 WO 2012103029A2
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
fastener
lid
coupled
axis
break
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US2012/022256
Other languages
French (fr)
Other versions
WO2012103029A3 (en
Inventor
Frank Dean Weber
Christoph Potakowskyj
Johannes POLLHAMMER
Original Assignee
Carefusion 303, Inc.
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Carefusion 303, Inc. filed Critical Carefusion 303, Inc.
Priority to AU2012209333A priority Critical patent/AU2012209333B2/en
Priority to EP17169785.7A priority patent/EP3225768B1/en
Priority to ES12738810.6T priority patent/ES2643388T3/en
Priority to BR112013018518-0A priority patent/BR112013018518B1/en
Priority to CA2825297A priority patent/CA2825297C/en
Priority to EP12738810.6A priority patent/EP2668355B8/en
Publication of WO2012103029A2 publication Critical patent/WO2012103029A2/en
Publication of WO2012103029A3 publication Critical patent/WO2012103029A3/en

Links

Classifications

    • GPHYSICS
    • G07CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07FCOIN-FREED OR LIKE APPARATUS
    • G07F17/00Coin-freed apparatus for hiring articles; Coin-freed facilities or services
    • G07F17/0092Coin-freed apparatus for hiring articles; Coin-freed facilities or services for assembling and dispensing of pharmaceutical articles
    • EFIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E05LOCKS; KEYS; WINDOW OR DOOR FITTINGS; SAFES
    • E05BLOCKS; ACCESSORIES THEREFOR; HANDCUFFS
    • E05B17/00Accessories in connection with locks
    • E05B17/0054Fraction or shear lines; Slip-clutches, resilient parts or the like for preventing damage when forced or slammed
    • EFIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E05LOCKS; KEYS; WINDOW OR DOOR FITTINGS; SAFES
    • E05BLOCKS; ACCESSORIES THEREFOR; HANDCUFFS
    • E05B39/00Locks giving indication of authorised or unauthorised unlocking
    • EFIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E05LOCKS; KEYS; WINDOW OR DOOR FITTINGS; SAFES
    • E05BLOCKS; ACCESSORIES THEREFOR; HANDCUFFS
    • E05B65/00Locks or fastenings for special use
    • E05B65/46Locks or fastenings for special use for drawers
    • EFIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E05LOCKS; KEYS; WINDOW OR DOOR FITTINGS; SAFES
    • E05GSAFES OR STRONG-ROOMS FOR VALUABLES; BANK PROTECTION DEVICES; SAFETY TRANSACTION PARTITIONS
    • E05G1/00Safes or strong-rooms for valuables
    • EFIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E05LOCKS; KEYS; WINDOW OR DOOR FITTINGS; SAFES
    • E05GSAFES OR STRONG-ROOMS FOR VALUABLES; BANK PROTECTION DEVICES; SAFETY TRANSACTION PARTITIONS
    • E05G1/00Safes or strong-rooms for valuables
    • E05G1/02Details
    • E05G1/04Closure fasteners
    • EFIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E05LOCKS; KEYS; WINDOW OR DOOR FITTINGS; SAFES
    • E05YINDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBCLASSES E05D AND E05F, RELATING TO CONSTRUCTION ELEMENTS, ELECTRIC CONTROL, POWER SUPPLY, POWER SIGNAL OR TRANSMISSION, USER INTERFACES, MOUNTING OR COUPLING, DETAILS, ACCESSORIES, AUXILIARY OPERATIONS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR, APPLICATION THEREOF
    • E05Y2800/00Details, accessories and auxiliary operations not otherwise provided for
    • E05Y2800/40Physical or chemical protection
    • E05Y2800/424Physical or chemical protection against unintended use, e.g. protection against vandalism or sabotage
    • E05Y2800/426Physical or chemical protection against unintended use, e.g. protection against vandalism or sabotage against unauthorised use, e.g. keys
    • EFIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E05LOCKS; KEYS; WINDOW OR DOOR FITTINGS; SAFES
    • E05YINDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBCLASSES E05D AND E05F, RELATING TO CONSTRUCTION ELEMENTS, ELECTRIC CONTROL, POWER SUPPLY, POWER SIGNAL OR TRANSMISSION, USER INTERFACES, MOUNTING OR COUPLING, DETAILS, ACCESSORIES, AUXILIARY OPERATIONS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR, APPLICATION THEREOF
    • E05Y2800/00Details, accessories and auxiliary operations not otherwise provided for
    • E05Y2800/67Materials; Strength alteration thereof
    • E05Y2800/684Strength alteration by weakening, e.g. by applying grooves
    • YGENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10TTECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T292/00Closure fasteners
    • Y10T292/08Bolts
    • Y10T292/1043Swinging
    • YGENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10TTECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T292/00Closure fasteners
    • Y10T292/08Bolts
    • Y10T292/1043Swinging
    • Y10T292/1075Operating means
    • Y10T292/1078Closure

Definitions

  • the present disclosure generally relates to apparatus and methods for controllably securing a container, and more particularly, to providing physical evidence of unauthorized access to the container.
  • Securable medication dispensing cabinets that seek to address these risks often use individually securable containers in order to lock medication in the containers. These securable containers, however, if accessed inappropriately, often do not indicate any evidence of inappropriate or unauthorized access. For example, when a container lid is subjected to enough force, certain lid fasteners can temporarily deform to an extent that access to the securable container is gained without permanently damaging the fastener. The lack of evidence of damage to the fastener or any other evidence of unauthorized access can be a problem where, for example, incorrect medications are added to or replaced within a container, or medications are stolen from a container in a low traffic area where detection of the unauthorized access will not be identified for extended periods of time.
  • the devices disclosed herein include containers that provide physical evidence of unauthorized access.
  • the containers include fasteners that physically break from the lid of the container due to unauthorized access gained from using physical force to open the lid.
  • the containers also include sensors that detect when the fastener has broken, and issue an alert upon the detection.
  • a container includes a receptacle, a lid, and a fastener.
  • the receptacle includes a latch, and the lid, which is coupled to the receptacle, is configured for movement between an open position allowing access to the receptacle and a closed position restricting access to the receptacle.
  • the fastener is coupled to the lid and configured to fasten the lid to the receptacle when the lid is in the closed position.
  • the fastener includes a first portion, coupled to the lid, which extends along a first axis that is perpendicular to a plane of the lid when the lid is in the closed position.
  • the fastener also includes a second portion, coupled to the first portion, which extends along a second axis that is perpendicular to the first axis.
  • the fastens* fur her includes a third portion, coupled to the second portion, which extends along an axis that is parallel to the first axis.
  • the fastener yet further includes a fourth portion, coupled to the third potion, that includes a contact member configured to couple to the latch.
  • a cabinet includes a plurality of drawers, each drawer including at least one container.
  • the container includes a receptacle, a lid, and a fastener.
  • the receptacle includes a latch, and the lid, which is coupled to the receptacle, is configured for movement between an open position allowing access to the receptacle and a closed position restricting access to the receptacle.
  • the fastener is coupled to the lid and configured to fasten the lid to the receptacle when the lid is in the closed position.
  • the fastener includes a first portion, coupled to the lid, which extends along a first axis that is perpendicular to a plane of the lid when the lid is in the closed position.
  • the fastener also includes a second portion, coupled to the first portion, which extends along a second axis that is perpendicular to the first axis.
  • the fastener further includes a third portion, coupled to the second portion, which extends along an axis that is parallel to the first axis.
  • the fastener yet further includes a fourth portion, coupled to the third potion, that includes a contact member configured to couple to the latch.
  • a method for detecting unauthorized access to a container includes providing a plurality of drawers, each drawer including at least one container.
  • the container includes a receptacle, a lid, and a fastener.
  • the receptacle includes a latch, and the lid, which is coupled to the receptacle, is configured for movement between an open position allowing access to the receptacle and a closed position restricting access to the receptacle.
  • the fastener is coupled to the lid and configured to fasten the lid to the receptacle when the lid is in the closed position.
  • the fastener includes a first portion, coupled to the lid, which extends along a first axis that is perpendicular to a plane of the lid when the lid is in the closed position.
  • the fastener also includes a second portion, coupled to the first portion, which extends along a second axis that is perpendicular to the first axis.
  • the fastener further includes a third portion, coupled to the second portion, which extends along an axis that is parallel to the first axis.
  • the fastener yet further includes a fourth portion, coupled to the third potion, that includes a contact member configured to couple to the latch.
  • the method includes breaking at least one of the two intentional break points of the fastener by applying a pull force to the lid parallel to the first axis in a direction distal to the fastener when the contact member is coupled to the latch.
  • FIG. 1 is a partially exploded view of a lidded container according to certain aspects of this disclosure.
  • FIG. 2 depicts a tamper evident fastener coupled to a latch of the lidded container of FIG. 1 according to certain aspects of this disclosure.
  • FIG. 3 illustrates an isolated view of the fastener of FIG. 2.
  • FIG. 4A illustrates the effect of the shape of the fastener of FIG. 2 when unauthorized or forceful access is attempted.
  • FIG. 4B illustrates how the fastener of FIG. 2 deforms when force is used to gain access to the container.
  • FIGS. 4C and 4D illustrate the fastener of FIG. 2 broken at a first intentional break point and a second intentional break point, respectively.
  • FIG. 4E depicts the forces created within the fastener of FIG. 2 by the deformation shown in FIG. 4B.
  • FIG. 4F depicts the forces within the fastener of FIG. 2 at an intentional break point below the corner between the second portion and third portion of the fastener.
  • FIG. 4G is an enlarged view of a portion of FIG. 4F.
  • FIG. 5 illustrates a sensor configured to detect when the fastener has broken from the lid of the lidded container of FIG. 1.
  • FIG. 6 illustrates an exemplary automated dispensing machine (ADM) that includes removable lidded containers that include the fastener of FIG. 2.
  • ADM automated dispensing machine
  • FIG. 1 is a partially exploded view of a lidded container 1 according to certain aspects of this disclosure.
  • the container 1 comprises a body 2 (or “receptacle”) and a lid 50 that is coupled to the body 2, although not in this exploded view.
  • the lid 50 is hingedly attached to body 2 through engagement of pivot pins 50A with the pin capture features 1A.
  • lid fastener 52 hereinafter “tamper evident fastener” or just “fastener”
  • a front cover plate of body 2 has been omitted to make visible the latch release mechanism 10.
  • FIG. 2 depicts the latch release mechanism 10 according to certain aspects of this disclosure.
  • the latch release mechanism 10 is configured to retain lid 50 in a closed position when the lid fastener 52 is coupled to the latch hook 4A in the position shown in FIG. 2.
  • Latch release mechanism 10 is attached to body 2 (not shown in this view) and fixed in position and orientation relative to the lid 50.
  • latch lever 4 has been rotated in a clockwise direction about a fixed pivot 5 such that latch hook 4A, which is located on the end of one of the arms of latch lever 4, has engaged a contact member 54 of lid fastener 52.
  • Spring 7 applies a force to latch lever 4 that causes a clockwise torque about pivot 5 to be applied to latch lever 4, maintaining the latch lever 4 in the position shown in FIG. 2.
  • FIG. 3 illustrates an isolated view of the fastener 52.
  • the fastener 52 includes a first portion 56, a second portion 58, a third portion 66, and a fourth portion 60.
  • the first portion 56 is coupled to the lid 50 and extends substantially along a first axis 62 that is perpendicular to the plane of the lid 50.
  • the second portion 58 is coupled to the first portion 56 and extends substantially along a second axis 64 that is perpendicular to the first axis 62.
  • the third portion 66 is coupled to the second portion 64 and extends substantially in parallel to the first axis 62.
  • the fourth portion 60 is coupled to the third portion 66 and includes a contact member 54 configured to couple to the latch hook 4A.
  • the contact member 54 is a hook, such as illustrated, for example.
  • FIG. 4A illustrates the effect of the shape of the fastener 52 when unauthorized or forceful access is attempted.
  • a first applied force 402 occurs in a direction distal to the contact member 54 because the attempt to force open the lid 50 is in the direction distal to the contact member 54.
  • a second applied force 404 occurs in the direction distal to the lid 50 because the fastener 52 is restrained by the latch hook 4A (not illustrated).
  • the geometry of fastener 52 creates a moment arm 406 between applied forces 402 and 404.
  • the combination of the applied forces 402 and 404 and the moment arm 406 creates a moment in the second portion 58 and third portion 66 of the fastener 52, as shown in FIG. 4E.
  • the moment induces a deflection in the second and third portions 58 and 66 that creates the shape shown (not to scale) in FIG. 4B.
  • the moment arm 406 and/or the stiffness of the first portion 56, the second portion 58, and the third portion 66 can be configured to either provide a net positive rotation of the fourth portion 60 to increase the engagement of the contact member 54 of the fourth portion 60 with the latch hook 4A as the force 402 is increased, or can give a net zero rotation as shown in figure 4B.
  • the deflection of fastener 52 attempts to rotate the contact member 54 clockwise with respect to the latch hook 4A (not illustrated), increasing the engagement of the contact member 54 and latch hook 4A.
  • a straight vertical fastener would allow the contact member 54 to rotate counterclockwise under the applied forces 402 and 404 and result in the contact member 54 slipping off the latch hook 4A, thereby allowing the lid 50 to open without evidence of tampering.
  • FIGS. 4C and 4D illustrate the fastener 52 broken at a first intentional break point 414 or a second intentional break point 416 due to sufficient force being applied to the container 1 to force open the lid 50 and gain access.
  • the fastener 52 is broken because the surface of the contact member 54 did not rotate due to the load force required to break the fastener 52. This occurs because the offset geometry of the fastener 52 decouples the applied moment 406 and applied forces 402 and 404 from the latch hook 4A (not illustrated), and configuration of the geometry to facilitate intentional break points 414 and 416 ensures that the fastener 52 will break before the lid 50 opens.
  • the load at which the intentional break points 414 and 416 fail is chosen to ensure that the fastener 52 breaks before the fastener 52 deforms enough to release the contact member 54, thereby ensuring that the lid 50 cannot be opened without evidence of the event.
  • the strengths of the first portion 56, the second portion 58, the third portion 66, and the fourth portion 60 are configured such that the load at which the intentional break points 414 and 416 fail (e.g., break) is such to ensure that the fastener 52 breaks before the latch lever 4 breaks or deforms enough to release the contact member 54, thereby ensuring that the lid 50 cannot be opened without evidence of the event.
  • FIG. 4C illustrates the fastener 52 broken at the first intentional break point 414.
  • the first intentional break point 414 is located at the third portion 66 of the fastener 52 proximal to where the third portion 66 couples to the second portion 58.
  • the contact member 54 is coupled to the latch 4A (not illustrated)
  • a pull force 418 is applied to a portion of the lid 50 parallel to the first axis in a direction distal to the fastener 52 and proximal to the first portion 56 of the fastener 52 and distal to the third portion 66 of the fastener 52 (e.g., by an unauthorized user pulling on the left side of the lid 50)
  • the fastener 52 is configured to break at the first intentional break point 414.
  • FIG. 4D illustrates the fastener 52 broken at the second intentional break point 416.
  • the second intentional break point 416 is located at the first portion 56 of the fastener 52 proximal to where the first portion 56 couples to the second portion 58.
  • the contact member 54 is coupled to the latch 4A (not illustrated)
  • a pull force 420 is applied to a portion of the lid 50 parallel to the first axis in a direction distal to the fastener 52 and proximal to the first portion 56 of the fastener 52 and distal to the third portion 66 of the fastener 52 (e.g., by an unauthorized user pulling on the right side of the lid 50)
  • the fastener 52 is configured to break at the second intentional break point 416.
  • FIG. 4E depicts the forces created within the fastener 52 by the deflection shown in FIG. 4B, wherein fastener 52 has been sectioned at plane 450 to reveal the forces and moments at complementary faces 420A and 420B.
  • FIG. 4F depicts the forces within fastener 52 at the intentional break point 442 below the corner between second portion 48 and third portion 66.
  • the fastener 52 has been sectioned at plane 430 to reveal the forces 432A and 432B and moments 434A and 434B at complementary faces 430A and 430B.
  • FIG. 4G is an enlarged view of face 430B, wherein the force 432B is shown as an even distribution of tension forces across the face 430B, wherein the net vertical force of moment 434B is zero.
  • the sum of the distributed forces of force 432B and moment 434B creates the force distribution 440. It can be seen that a maximum tension force is created at point 442 on the inside edge of face 430B.
  • the design of fastener 52 is such that this force will exceed the material strength of the fastener 42 and breaks the fastener 52 before the fastener 52 deforms further and disengages from latch hook 4A.
  • the fastener 52 prior to opening the lid 50 forcibly, the fastener 52 will be damaged at one of the intentional break points 414 and 416. As described below, in certain embodiments, such breaks can be detected with a sensor 502.
  • FIG. 5 illustrates a sensor 502 configured to detect when the fastener 52 has been broken.
  • the sensor 502 is a photointerrupter, although other types of sensors can be used.
  • fastener 52 includes a flag 504. If the fastener 52 breaks from the lid 50 (e.g., at one of the intentional break points 414 and 416), the fastener 52 and flag 504 fall in the direction 506 away from the lid 50 and towards the latch hook 4A.
  • the optical path of the sensor 502 is opened by the falling flag 504, putting the sensor 502 into a "lid-open state.”
  • the lid-open state triggers an audible, visible, and/or electronic communication alert to indicate that the lidded container 1 is no longer secure due to unauthorized access.
  • the signal can be sent to a controller/remote server 500 of an ADM 100 (see FIG. 6), and also or alternatively, to a central server or security station to alert other personnel of the forcible and potentially unauthorized access.
  • FIG. 6 illustrates an exemplary ADM 100 that includes removable lidded containers 1 that include fasteners 52 according to certain aspects of this disclosure.
  • the ADM 100 includes a cabinet 105 with a controller 1 15 that is, in this example, housed in the top structure of the ADM 100.
  • the controller 115 includes a processor with a memory (not shown), a display, a keyboard and touch screen input devices, a power supply (not shown), and communication modules (not shown) that couple the processor to the internal components of the ADM 100 and to external networks.
  • the ADM 100 includes a barcode scanner (not shown) that is fixedly or removably mounted to the top structure or cabinet.
  • the ADM 100 also includes a drawer 1 10 that is configured to accept the lidded containers 1 from FIG. 1, wherein the lidded containers 1 and the drawer 1 10 both include complementary mating connectors that couple the lidded containers 1 to the controller 115 when the lidded containers 1 are accepted by the drawer 110.
  • the drawer 110 has multiple locations 1 12 configured to accept a lidded container 1.
  • the lidded containers 1 are attached to fixed parts of the cabinet 105, such as a shelf or inclined surface.
  • the lidded containers 1 are not separate from the structure of the cabinet 105, wherein the equivalent to the body 2 of FIG. 1 is integrally formed into the structure of the cabinet 105. In certain embodiments, the equivalent to the body 2 of FIG.
  • the cabinet 105 is a smaller structure having only a few drawers 110, wherein the storage capacity of the ADM 100 is suitable for a single patient rather than a plurality of patients.
  • the cabinet 105 is mounted to and supported by a wall.
  • the disclosed fastener 52 provides physical evidence of unauthorized access because the fastener 52 is configured to break at intentional break points 414 and 416 if sufficient force is used to open the lid 50 to gain access to the lidded container 1.
  • the fastener 52 is configured to break at the predetermined intentional break points 414 and 416 due to the unique geometry of the fastener 52, which is configured to deform in a shape that requires the fastener 52 to break in order for unauthorized access to the lidded container 1 to be achieved.
  • a container includes a receptacle, lid, and fastener.
  • the receptacle includes a latch.
  • the lid is coupled to the receptacle and moves between an open and a closed position.
  • the fastener is coupled to the lid and fastens the lid to the receptacle.
  • the fastener includes first, second, third, and fourth portions.
  • the first portion is coupled to the lid and extends along a first axis that is perpendicular to a plane of the lid when the lid is in the closed position.
  • the second portion is coupled to the first portion and extends along a second axis that is perpendicular to the first axis.
  • the third portion is coupled to the second portion and extends along an axis that is parallel to the first axis.
  • the fourth portion is coupled to the third potion and includes a contact member that couples to the latch.
  • a container comprising:
  • a receptacle comprising a latch
  • a lid coupled to the receptacle, and configured for movement between an open position allowing access to the receptacle and a closed position restricting access to the receptacle;
  • a fastener coupled to the lid, and configured to fasten the lid to the receptacle when the lid is in the closed position, the fastener comprising:
  • a first portion coupled to the lid, extending along a first axis that is perpendicular to a plane of the lid when the lid is in the closed position;
  • a second portion coupled to the first portion, extending along a second axis that is perpendicular to the first axis;
  • a third portion coupled to the second portion, extending along an axis that is parallel to the first axis;
  • a fourth portion coupled to the third potion, comprising a contact member configured to couple to the latch.
  • a cabinet comprising:
  • each drawer comprising:
  • At least one container comprising:
  • a receptacle comprising a latch
  • a lid coupled to the receptacle, and configured for movement between an open position allowing access to the receptacle and a closed position restricting access to the receptacle;
  • a fastener coupled to the lid, and configured to fasten the lid to the receptacle when the lid is in the closed position, the fastener comprising:
  • a first portion coupled to the lid, extending along a first axis that is perpendicular to a plane of the lid when the lid is in the closed position;
  • a second portion coupled to the first portion, extending along a second axis that is perpendicular to the first axis;
  • a third portion coupled to the second portion, extending along an axis that is parallel to the first axis; and a fourth portion, coupled to the third potion, comprising a contact member configured to couple to the latch.
  • a method for detecting unauthorized access to a container comprising:
  • each drawer comprising:
  • At least one container comprising:
  • a receptacle comprising a latch
  • a lid coupled to the receptacle, and configured for movement between an open position allowing access to the receptacle and a closed position restricting access to the receptacle; a fastener, coupled to the lid, and configured to fasten the lid to the receptacle when the lid is in the closed position, the fastener comprising:
  • a first portion coupled to the lid, extending along a first axis that is perpendicular to a plane of the lid when the lid is in the closed position;
  • a second portion coupled to the first portion, extending along a second axis that is perpendicular to the first axis;
  • a third portion coupled to the second portion, extending along an axis that is parallel to the first axis;
  • a fourth portion coupled to the third potion, comprising a contact member configured to couple to the latch;
  • breaking at least one of the two intentional break points of the fastener by applying a pull force to the lid parallel to the first axis in a direction distal to the fastener when the contact member is coupled to the latch.

Landscapes

  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Closures For Containers (AREA)
  • Cartons (AREA)

Abstract

A container is described. The container includes a receptacle, lid, and fastener. The receptacle includes a latch. The lid is coupled to the receptacle and moves between an open and a closed position. The fastener is coupled to the lid and fastens the lid to the receptacle. The fastener includes first, second, third, and fourth portions. The first portion is coupled to the lid and extends along a first axis that is perpendicular to a plane of the lid when the lid is in the closed position. The second portion is coupled to the first portion and extends along a second axis that is perpendicular to the first axis. The third portion is coupled to the second portion and extends along an axis that is parallel to the first axis. The fourth portion is coupled to the third potion and includes a contact member that couples to the latch.

Description

TAMPER-EVIDENT FASTENER
BACKGROUND
Field
[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to apparatus and methods for controllably securing a container, and more particularly, to providing physical evidence of unauthorized access to the container.
Description of the Related Art
[0002] It is well known in the medical community, and in particular, in hospitals, to store medications in a centralized area or station for dispensing and administering the medications to patients. In the past, these stations were often unsecured, allowing access to unauthorized persons. There are several risks associated with unsecured and uncontrolled stations, such as the wrong type or amount of medication being administered to a patient (e.g., such as when medication is taken from an incorrect container in the station), the medication being stolen, or the mixing of medications.
[0003] Securable medication dispensing cabinets that seek to address these risks often use individually securable containers in order to lock medication in the containers. These securable containers, however, if accessed inappropriately, often do not indicate any evidence of inappropriate or unauthorized access. For example, when a container lid is subjected to enough force, certain lid fasteners can temporarily deform to an extent that access to the securable container is gained without permanently damaging the fastener. The lack of evidence of damage to the fastener or any other evidence of unauthorized access can be a problem where, for example, incorrect medications are added to or replaced within a container, or medications are stolen from a container in a low traffic area where detection of the unauthorized access will not be identified for extended periods of time. SUMMARY
[0004] The devices disclosed herein, according to certain embodiments, include containers that provide physical evidence of unauthorized access. The containers include fasteners that physically break from the lid of the container due to unauthorized access gained from using physical force to open the lid. In certain embodiments, the containers also include sensors that detect when the fastener has broken, and issue an alert upon the detection.
[0005] According to certain embodiments of the present disclosure, a container is disclosed. The container includes a receptacle, a lid, and a fastener. The receptacle includes a latch, and the lid, which is coupled to the receptacle, is configured for movement between an open position allowing access to the receptacle and a closed position restricting access to the receptacle. The fastener is coupled to the lid and configured to fasten the lid to the receptacle when the lid is in the closed position. The fastener includes a first portion, coupled to the lid, which extends along a first axis that is perpendicular to a plane of the lid when the lid is in the closed position. The fastener also includes a second portion, coupled to the first portion, which extends along a second axis that is perpendicular to the first axis. The fastens* fur her includes a third portion, coupled to the second portion, which extends along an axis that is parallel to the first axis. The fastener yet further includes a fourth portion, coupled to the third potion, that includes a contact member configured to couple to the latch.
[0006] According to certain embodiments of the present disclosure, a cabinet is disclosed. The cabinet includes a plurality of drawers, each drawer including at least one container. The container includes a receptacle, a lid, and a fastener. The receptacle includes a latch, and the lid, which is coupled to the receptacle, is configured for movement between an open position allowing access to the receptacle and a closed position restricting access to the receptacle. The fastener is coupled to the lid and configured to fasten the lid to the receptacle when the lid is in the closed position. The fastener includes a first portion, coupled to the lid, which extends along a first axis that is perpendicular to a plane of the lid when the lid is in the closed position. The fastener also includes a second portion, coupled to the first portion, which extends along a second axis that is perpendicular to the first axis. The fastener further includes a third portion, coupled to the second portion, which extends along an axis that is parallel to the first axis. The fastener yet further includes a fourth portion, coupled to the third potion, that includes a contact member configured to couple to the latch.
[0007] According to certain embodiments of the present disclosure, a method for detecting unauthorized access to a container is disclosed. The method includes providing a plurality of drawers, each drawer including at least one container. The container includes a receptacle, a lid, and a fastener. The receptacle includes a latch, and the lid, which is coupled to the receptacle, is configured for movement between an open position allowing access to the receptacle and a closed position restricting access to the receptacle. The fastener is coupled to the lid and configured to fasten the lid to the receptacle when the lid is in the closed position. The fastener includes a first portion, coupled to the lid, which extends along a first axis that is perpendicular to a plane of the lid when the lid is in the closed position. The fastener also includes a second portion, coupled to the first portion, which extends along a second axis that is perpendicular to the first axis. The fastener further includes a third portion, coupled to the second portion, which extends along an axis that is parallel to the first axis. The fastener yet further includes a fourth portion, coupled to the third potion, that includes a contact member configured to couple to the latch. The method includes breaking at least one of the two intentional break points of the fastener by applying a pull force to the lid parallel to the first axis in a direction distal to the fastener when the contact member is coupled to the latch.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0008] The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide further understanding and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate disclosed
embodiments and together with the description serve to explain the principles of the disclosed embodiments. In the drawings:
[0009] FIG. 1 is a partially exploded view of a lidded container according to certain aspects of this disclosure.
[0010] FIG. 2 depicts a tamper evident fastener coupled to a latch of the lidded container of FIG. 1 according to certain aspects of this disclosure. [0011] FIG. 3 illustrates an isolated view of the fastener of FIG. 2.
[0012] FIG. 4A illustrates the effect of the shape of the fastener of FIG. 2 when unauthorized or forceful access is attempted.
[0013] FIG. 4B illustrates how the fastener of FIG. 2 deforms when force is used to gain access to the container.
[0014] FIGS. 4C and 4D illustrate the fastener of FIG. 2 broken at a first intentional break point and a second intentional break point, respectively.
[0015] FIG. 4E depicts the forces created within the fastener of FIG. 2 by the deformation shown in FIG. 4B.
[0016] FIG. 4F depicts the forces within the fastener of FIG. 2 at an intentional break point below the corner between the second portion and third portion of the fastener.
[0017] FIG. 4G is an enlarged view of a portion of FIG. 4F.
[0018] FIG. 5 illustrates a sensor configured to detect when the fastener has broken from the lid of the lidded container of FIG. 1.
[0019] FIG. 6 illustrates an exemplary automated dispensing machine (ADM) that includes removable lidded containers that include the fastener of FIG. 2.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0020] In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth to provide a full understanding of the present disclosure. It will be obvious, however, to one ordinarily skilled in the art that the embodiments of the present disclosure may be practiced without some of these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and techniques have not been shown in detail so as not to obscure the disclosure.
[0021] FIG. 1 is a partially exploded view of a lidded container 1 according to certain aspects of this disclosure. The container 1 comprises a body 2 (or "receptacle") and a lid 50 that is coupled to the body 2, although not in this exploded view. In certain embodiments, the lid 50 is hingedly attached to body 2 through engagement of pivot pins 50A with the pin capture features 1A. When the lid 50 is closed, lid fastener 52 (hereinafter "tamper evident fastener" or just "fastener"), which is coupled to the lid 50, passes through the hole 2A in body 2 and comes into proximity with the latch release mechanism 10 that is visible in FIG. 1 within a front compartment of body 2. A front cover plate of body 2 has been omitted to make visible the latch release mechanism 10.
[0022] FIG. 2 depicts the latch release mechanism 10 according to certain aspects of this disclosure. The latch release mechanism 10 is configured to retain lid 50 in a closed position when the lid fastener 52 is coupled to the latch hook 4A in the position shown in FIG. 2. Latch release mechanism 10 is attached to body 2 (not shown in this view) and fixed in position and orientation relative to the lid 50. To reach the illustrated position, latch lever 4 has been rotated in a clockwise direction about a fixed pivot 5 such that latch hook 4A, which is located on the end of one of the arms of latch lever 4, has engaged a contact member 54 of lid fastener 52. Spring 7 applies a force to latch lever 4 that causes a clockwise torque about pivot 5 to be applied to latch lever 4, maintaining the latch lever 4 in the position shown in FIG. 2.
[0023] FIG. 3 illustrates an isolated view of the fastener 52. The fastener 52 includes a first portion 56, a second portion 58, a third portion 66, and a fourth portion 60. The first portion 56 is coupled to the lid 50 and extends substantially along a first axis 62 that is perpendicular to the plane of the lid 50. The second portion 58 is coupled to the first portion 56 and extends substantially along a second axis 64 that is perpendicular to the first axis 62. The third portion 66 is coupled to the second portion 64 and extends substantially in parallel to the first axis 62. The fourth portion 60 is coupled to the third portion 66 and includes a contact member 54 configured to couple to the latch hook 4A. In certain embodiments, the contact member 54 is a hook, such as illustrated, for example.
[0024] FIG. 4A illustrates the effect of the shape of the fastener 52 when unauthorized or forceful access is attempted. A first applied force 402 occurs in a direction distal to the contact member 54 because the attempt to force open the lid 50 is in the direction distal to the contact member 54. A second applied force 404 occurs in the direction distal to the lid 50 because the fastener 52 is restrained by the latch hook 4A (not illustrated). The geometry of fastener 52 creates a moment arm 406 between applied forces 402 and 404. The combination of the applied forces 402 and 404 and the moment arm 406 creates a moment in the second portion 58 and third portion 66 of the fastener 52, as shown in FIG. 4E. The moment induces a deflection in the second and third portions 58 and 66 that creates the shape shown (not to scale) in FIG. 4B. The moment arm 406 and/or the stiffness of the first portion 56, the second portion 58, and the third portion 66 can be configured to either provide a net positive rotation of the fourth portion 60 to increase the engagement of the contact member 54 of the fourth portion 60 with the latch hook 4A as the force 402 is increased, or can give a net zero rotation as shown in figure 4B. The deflection of fastener 52 attempts to rotate the contact member 54 clockwise with respect to the latch hook 4A (not illustrated), increasing the engagement of the contact member 54 and latch hook 4A. By comparison, a straight vertical fastener would allow the contact member 54 to rotate counterclockwise under the applied forces 402 and 404 and result in the contact member 54 slipping off the latch hook 4A, thereby allowing the lid 50 to open without evidence of tampering.
[0025] FIGS. 4C and 4D illustrate the fastener 52 broken at a first intentional break point 414 or a second intentional break point 416 due to sufficient force being applied to the container 1 to force open the lid 50 and gain access. The fastener 52 is broken because the surface of the contact member 54 did not rotate due to the load force required to break the fastener 52. This occurs because the offset geometry of the fastener 52 decouples the applied moment 406 and applied forces 402 and 404 from the latch hook 4A (not illustrated), and configuration of the geometry to facilitate intentional break points 414 and 416 ensures that the fastener 52 will break before the lid 50 opens. The load at which the intentional break points 414 and 416 fail (i.e., break) is chosen to ensure that the fastener 52 breaks before the fastener 52 deforms enough to release the contact member 54, thereby ensuring that the lid 50 cannot be opened without evidence of the event. The strengths of the first portion 56, the second portion 58, the third portion 66, and the fourth portion 60 are configured such that the load at which the intentional break points 414 and 416 fail (e.g., break) is such to ensure that the fastener 52 breaks before the latch lever 4 breaks or deforms enough to release the contact member 54, thereby ensuring that the lid 50 cannot be opened without evidence of the event. [0026] FIG. 4C illustrates the fastener 52 broken at the first intentional break point 414. The first intentional break point 414 is located at the third portion 66 of the fastener 52 proximal to where the third portion 66 couples to the second portion 58. When the contact member 54 is coupled to the latch 4A (not illustrated), and when a pull force 418 is applied to a portion of the lid 50 parallel to the first axis in a direction distal to the fastener 52 and proximal to the first portion 56 of the fastener 52 and distal to the third portion 66 of the fastener 52 (e.g., by an unauthorized user pulling on the left side of the lid 50), the fastener 52 is configured to break at the first intentional break point 414.
[0027] FIG. 4D illustrates the fastener 52 broken at the second intentional break point 416. The second intentional break point 416 is located at the first portion 56 of the fastener 52 proximal to where the first portion 56 couples to the second portion 58. When the contact member 54 is coupled to the latch 4A (not illustrated), and when a pull force 420 is applied to a portion of the lid 50 parallel to the first axis in a direction distal to the fastener 52 and proximal to the first portion 56 of the fastener 52 and distal to the third portion 66 of the fastener 52 (e.g., by an unauthorized user pulling on the right side of the lid 50), the fastener 52 is configured to break at the second intentional break point 416.
[0028] FIG. 4E depicts the forces created within the fastener 52 by the deflection shown in FIG. 4B, wherein fastener 52 has been sectioned at plane 450 to reveal the forces and moments at complementary faces 420A and 420B. There is a shear force 422 parallel to the plane 420 resulting in shear forces 422A and 422B applied to faces 420A and 420B respectively. There is also a moment created within second portion 58 that results in moments 424A and 424B applied to faces 420A and 420B respectively.
[0029] FIG. 4F depicts the forces within fastener 52 at the intentional break point 442 below the corner between second portion 48 and third portion 66. The fastener 52 has been sectioned at plane 430 to reveal the forces 432A and 432B and moments 434A and 434B at complementary faces 430A and 430B. FIG. 4G is an enlarged view of face 430B, wherein the force 432B is shown as an even distribution of tension forces across the face 430B, wherein the net vertical force of moment 434B is zero. The sum of the distributed forces of force 432B and moment 434B creates the force distribution 440. It can be seen that a maximum tension force is created at point 442 on the inside edge of face 430B. The design of fastener 52 is such that this force will exceed the material strength of the fastener 42 and breaks the fastener 52 before the fastener 52 deforms further and disengages from latch hook 4A.
[0030] Hence, with the above embodiments, prior to opening the lid 50 forcibly, the fastener 52 will be damaged at one of the intentional break points 414 and 416. As described below, in certain embodiments, such breaks can be detected with a sensor 502.
[0031] FIG. 5 illustrates a sensor 502 configured to detect when the fastener 52 has been broken. In certain embodiments, the sensor 502 is a photointerrupter, although other types of sensors can be used. In certain embodiments, fastener 52 includes a flag 504. If the fastener 52 breaks from the lid 50 (e.g., at one of the intentional break points 414 and 416), the fastener 52 and flag 504 fall in the direction 506 away from the lid 50 and towards the latch hook 4A. The optical path of the sensor 502 is opened by the falling flag 504, putting the sensor 502 into a "lid-open state." In certain embodiments, the lid-open state triggers an audible, visible, and/or electronic communication alert to indicate that the lidded container 1 is no longer secure due to unauthorized access. The signal can be sent to a controller/remote server 500 of an ADM 100 (see FIG. 6), and also or alternatively, to a central server or security station to alert other personnel of the forcible and potentially unauthorized access.
[0032] FIG. 6 illustrates an exemplary ADM 100 that includes removable lidded containers 1 that include fasteners 52 according to certain aspects of this disclosure. The ADM 100 includes a cabinet 105 with a controller 1 15 that is, in this example, housed in the top structure of the ADM 100. The controller 115 includes a processor with a memory (not shown), a display, a keyboard and touch screen input devices, a power supply (not shown), and communication modules (not shown) that couple the processor to the internal components of the ADM 100 and to external networks. In certain embodiments, the ADM 100 includes a barcode scanner (not shown) that is fixedly or removably mounted to the top structure or cabinet. The ADM 100 also includes a drawer 1 10 that is configured to accept the lidded containers 1 from FIG. 1, wherein the lidded containers 1 and the drawer 1 10 both include complementary mating connectors that couple the lidded containers 1 to the controller 115 when the lidded containers 1 are accepted by the drawer 110. The drawer 110 has multiple locations 1 12 configured to accept a lidded container 1. In certain embodiments, the lidded containers 1 are attached to fixed parts of the cabinet 105, such as a shelf or inclined surface. In certain embodiments, the lidded containers 1 are not separate from the structure of the cabinet 105, wherein the equivalent to the body 2 of FIG. 1 is integrally formed into the structure of the cabinet 105. In certain embodiments, the equivalent to the body 2 of FIG. 1 is integrally formed into the structure of the drawer 110, wherein the compartments formed by the bodies 2 in such a structure have individual lids 50 mounted to the common drawer structure. In certain embodiments, the cabinet 105 is a smaller structure having only a few drawers 110, wherein the storage capacity of the ADM 100 is suitable for a single patient rather than a plurality of patients. In certain embodiments, the cabinet 105 is mounted to and supported by a wall.
[0033] In summary, the disclosed fastener 52 provides physical evidence of unauthorized access because the fastener 52 is configured to break at intentional break points 414 and 416 if sufficient force is used to open the lid 50 to gain access to the lidded container 1. The fastener 52 is configured to break at the predetermined intentional break points 414 and 416 due to the unique geometry of the fastener 52, which is configured to deform in a shape that requires the fastener 52 to break in order for unauthorized access to the lidded container 1 to be achieved.
[0034] While certain aspects and embodiments of the invention have been described, these have been presented by way of example only, and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Indeed, the novel methods and systems described herein may be embodied in a variety of other forms without departing from the spirit thereof. The accompanying claims and their equivalents are intended to cover such forms or modifications as would fall within the scope and spirit of the invention.
[0035] All elements, parts and steps described herein are preferably included. It is to be understood that any of these elements, parts and steps may be replaced by other elements, parts and steps or deleted altogether as will be obvious to those skilled in the art. [0036] Broadly, this writing discloses the following: a container. The container includes a receptacle, lid, and fastener. The receptacle includes a latch. The lid is coupled to the receptacle and moves between an open and a closed position. The fastener is coupled to the lid and fastens the lid to the receptacle. The fastener includes first, second, third, and fourth portions. The first portion is coupled to the lid and extends along a first axis that is perpendicular to a plane of the lid when the lid is in the closed position. The second portion is coupled to the first portion and extends along a second axis that is perpendicular to the first axis. The third portion is coupled to the second portion and extends along an axis that is parallel to the first axis. The fourth portion is coupled to the third potion and includes a contact member that couples to the latch.
CONCEPTS
[0037] This writing has disclosed at least the following concepts.
Concept 1. A container comprising:
a receptacle comprising a latch;
a lid coupled to the receptacle, and configured for movement between an open position allowing access to the receptacle and a closed position restricting access to the receptacle;
a fastener, coupled to the lid, and configured to fasten the lid to the receptacle when the lid is in the closed position, the fastener comprising:
a first portion, coupled to the lid, extending along a first axis that is perpendicular to a plane of the lid when the lid is in the closed position;
a second portion, coupled to the first portion, extending along a second axis that is perpendicular to the first axis;
a third portion, coupled to the second portion, extending along an axis that is parallel to the first axis; and
a fourth portion, coupled to the third potion, comprising a contact member configured to couple to the latch.
Concept 2. The container of Concept 1, wherein the fastener is configured to break at at least one of two intentional break points in response to application of a first force on the fastener.
Concept 3. The container of Concept 2, wherein, when the contact member is coupled to the latch and a pull force is applied to the lid parallel to the first axis in a direction distal to the fastener, the fastener is configured to break at at least one of the two intentional break points.
Concept 4. The container of Concept 3, wherein a first break point of the at least two intentional break points is located at the first portion of the fastener, and wherein a second break point of the at least two intentional break points is located at the third portion of the fastener proximal to where the third portion couples to the second portion.
Concept 5. The container of Concept 4, wherein when the pull force is applied to a portion of the lid proximal to the first portion of the fastener and distal to the third portion of the fastener, the fastener is configured to break at the first break point.
Concept 6. The container of Concept 4, wherein when the pull force is applied to a portion of the lid distal to the first portion of the fastener and proximal to the third portion of the fastener, the fastener is configured to break at the second break point.
Concept 7. The container of Concept 1, further comprising a sensor configured to detect when the fastener has broken.
Concept 8. The container of Concept 1, wherein the contact member comprises a hook.
Concept 9. A cabinet comprising:
a plurality of drawers, each drawer comprising:
at least one container, comprising:
a receptacle comprising a latch;
a lid coupled to the receptacle, and configured for movement between an open position allowing access to the receptacle and a closed position restricting access to the receptacle;
a fastener, coupled to the lid, and configured to fasten the lid to the receptacle when the lid is in the closed position, the fastener comprising:
a first portion, coupled to the lid, extending along a first axis that is perpendicular to a plane of the lid when the lid is in the closed position;
a second portion, coupled to the first portion, extending along a second axis that is perpendicular to the first axis;
a third portion, coupled to the second portion, extending along an axis that is parallel to the first axis; and a fourth portion, coupled to the third potion, comprising a contact member configured to couple to the latch.
Concept 10. The cabinet of Concept 9, wherein the fastener is configured to break at at least one of two intentional break points in response to application of a first force on the fastener.
Concept 11. The cabinet of Concept 10, wherein, when the contact member is coupled to the latch and a pull force is applied to the lid parallel to the first axis in a direction distal to the fastener, the fastener is configured to break at at least one of the two intentional break points.
Concept 12. The cabinet of Concept 11, wherein a first break point of the at least two intentional break points is located at the first portion of the fastener, and wherein a second break point of the at least two intentional break points is located at the third portion of the fastener proximal to where the third portion couples to the second portion.
Concept 13. The cabinet of Concept 12, wherein when the pull force is applied to a portion of the lid proximal to the first portion of the fastener and distal to the third portion of the fastener, the fastener is configured to break at the first break point.
Concept 14. The cabinet of Concept 12, wherein when the pull force is applied to a portion of the lid distal to the first portion of the fastener and proximal to the third portion of the fastener, the fastener is configured to break at the second break point.
Concept 15. The cabinet of Concept 9, further comprising a sensor configured to detect when the fastener has broken.
Concept 16. The cabinet of Concept 9, wherein the contact member comprises a hook.
Concept 17. A method for detecting unauthorized access to a container comprising:
providing a plurality of drawers, each drawer comprising:
at least one container, comprising:
a receptacle comprising a latch;
a lid coupled to the receptacle, and configured for movement between an open position allowing access to the receptacle and a closed position restricting access to the receptacle; a fastener, coupled to the lid, and configured to fasten the lid to the receptacle when the lid is in the closed position, the fastener comprising:
a first portion, coupled to the lid, extending along a first axis that is perpendicular to a plane of the lid when the lid is in the closed position;
a second portion, coupled to the first portion, extending along a second axis that is perpendicular to the first axis;
a third portion, coupled to the second portion, extending along an axis that is parallel to the first axis; and
a fourth portion, coupled to the third potion, comprising a contact member configured to couple to the latch;
breaking at least one of the two intentional break points of the fastener by applying a pull force to the lid parallel to the first axis in a direction distal to the fastener when the contact member is coupled to the latch.
Concept 18. The method of Concept 17, wherein a first break point of the at least two intentional break points is located at the first portion of the fastener, and wherein a second break point of the at least two intentional break points is located at the third portion of the fastener proximal to where the third portion couples to the second portion.
Concept 19. The cabinet of Concept 18, wherein when the pull force is applied to a portion of the lid proximal to the first portion of the fastener and distal to the third portion of the fastener, the fastener is configured to break at the first break point.
Concept 20. The cabinet of Concept 18, wherein when the pull force is applied to a portion of the lid distal to the first portion of the fastener and proximal to the third portion of the fastener, the fastener is configured to break at the second break point.

Claims

CLAIMS WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:
1. A container comprising:
a receptacle comprising a latch;
a lid coupled to the receptacle, and configured for movement between an open position allowing access to the receptacle and a closed position restricting access to the receptacle;
a fastener, coupled to the lid, and configured to fasten the lid to the receptacle when the lid is in the closed position, the fastener comprising:
a first portion, coupled to the lid, extending along a first axis that is perpendicular to a plane of the lid when the lid is in the closed position;
a second portion, coupled to the first portion, extending along a second axis that is perpendicular to the first axis;
a third portion, coupled to the second portion, extending along an axis that is parallel to the first axis; and
a fourth portion, coupled to the third potion, comprising a contact member configured to couple to the latch.
2. The container of Claim 1, wherein the fastener is configured to break at at least one of two intentional break points in response to application of a first force on the fastener.
3. The container of Claim 2, wherein, when the contact member is coupled to the latch and a pull force is applied to the lid parallel to the first axis in a direction distal to the fastener, the fastener is configured to break at at least one of the two intentional break points.
4. The container of Claim 3, wherein a first break point of the at least two intentional break points is located at the first portion of the fastener, and wherein a second break point of the at least two intentional break points is located at the third portion of the fastener proximal to where the third portion couples to the second portion.
5. The container of Claim 4, wherein when the pull force is applied to a portion of the lid proximal to the first portion of the fastener and distal to the third portion of the fastener, the fastener is configured to break at the first break point.
6. The container of Claim 4, wherein when the pull force is applied to a portion of the lid distal to the first portion of the fastener and proximal to the third portion of the fastener, the fastener is configured to break at the second break point.
7. The container of Claim 1, further comprising a sensor configured to detect when the fastener has broken.
8. The container of Claim 1 , wherein the contact member comprises a hook.
9. A cabinet comprising:
a plurality of drawers, each drawer comprising:
at least one container, comprising:
a receptacle comprising a latch;
a lid coupled to the receptacle, and configured for movement between an open position allowing access to the receptacle and a closed position restricting access to the receptacle;
a fastener, coupled to the lid, and configured to fasten the lid to the receptacle when the lid is in the closed position, the fastener comprising:
a first portion, coupled to the lid, extending along a first axis that is perpendicular to a plane of the lid when the lid is in the closed position;
a second portion, coupled to the first portion, extending along a second axis that is perpendicular to the first axis;
a third portion, coupled to the second portion, extending along an axis that is parallel to the first axis; and
a fourth portion, coupled to the third potion, comprising a contact member configured to couple to the latch.
10. The cabinet of Claim 9, wherein the fastener is configured to break at at least one of two intentional break points in response to application of a first force on the fastener.
1 1. The cabinet of Claim 10, wherein, when the contact member is coupled to the latch and a pull force is applied to the lid parallel to the first axis in a direction distal to the fastener, the fastener is configured to break at at least one of the two intentional break points.
12. The cabinet of Claim 11 , wherein a first break point of the at least two intentional break points is located at the first portion of the fastener, and wherein a second break point of the at least two intentional break points is located at the third portion of the fastener proximal to where the third portion couples to the second portion.
13. The cabinet of Claim 12, wherein when the pull force is applied to a portion of the lid proximal to the first portion of the fastener and distal to the third portion of the fastener, the fastener is configured to break at the first break point.
14. The cabinet of Claim 12, wherein when the pull force is applied to a portion of the lid distal to the first portion of the fastener and proximal to the third portion of the fastener, the fastener is configured to break at the second break point.
15. The cabinet of Claim 9, further comprising a sensor configured to detect when the fastener has broken.
16. The cabinet of Claim 9, wherein the contact member comprises a hook.
17. A method for detecting unauthorized access to a container comprising:
providing a plurality of drawers, each drawer comprising:
at least one container, comprising:
a receptacle comprising a latch;
a lid coupled to the receptacle, and configured for movement between an open position allowing access to the receptacle and a closed position restricting access to the receptacle;
a fastener, coupled to the lid, and configured to fasten the lid to the receptacle when the lid is in the closed position, the fastener comprising:
a first portion, coupled to the lid, extending along a first axis that is perpendicular to a plane of the lid when the lid is in the closed position;
a second portion, coupled to the first portion, extending along a second axis that is perpendicular to the first axis;
a third portion, coupled to the second portion, extending along an axis that is parallel to the first axis; and
a fourth portion, coupled to the third potion, comprising a contact member configured to couple to the latch;
breaking at least one of the two intentional break points of the fastener by applying a pull force to the lid parallel to the first axis in a direction distal to the fastener when the contact member is coupled to the latch.
18. The method of Claim 17, wherein a first break point of the at least two intentional break points is located at the first portion of the fastener, and wherein a second break point of the at least two intentional break points is located at the third portion of the fastener proximal to where the third portion couples to the second portion.
19. The cabinet of Claim 18, wherein when the pull force is applied to a portion of the lid proximal to the first portion of the fastener and distal to the third portion of the fastener, the fastener is configured to break at the first break point.
20. The cabinet of Claim 18, wherein when the pull force is applied to a portion of the lid distal to the first portion of the fastener and proximal to the third portion of the fastener, the fastener is configured to break at the second break point.
PCT/US2012/022256 2011-01-24 2012-01-23 Tamper-evident fastener WO2012103029A2 (en)

Priority Applications (6)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
AU2012209333A AU2012209333B2 (en) 2011-01-24 2012-01-23 Tamper-evident fastener
EP17169785.7A EP3225768B1 (en) 2011-01-24 2012-01-23 Tamper-evident fastener
ES12738810.6T ES2643388T3 (en) 2011-01-24 2012-01-23 Tamperproof fastener
BR112013018518-0A BR112013018518B1 (en) 2011-01-24 2012-01-23 CONTAINER, CABINET AND METHOD FOR DETECTING UNAUTHORIZED ACCESS TO A CONTAINER
CA2825297A CA2825297C (en) 2011-01-24 2012-01-23 Tamper-evident fastener
EP12738810.6A EP2668355B8 (en) 2011-01-24 2012-01-23 Tamper-evident fastener

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US13/012,762 US8376478B2 (en) 2011-01-24 2011-01-24 Tamper-evident fastener
US13/012,762 2011-01-24

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2012103029A2 true WO2012103029A2 (en) 2012-08-02
WO2012103029A3 WO2012103029A3 (en) 2012-11-01

Family

ID=46364994

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/US2012/022256 WO2012103029A2 (en) 2011-01-24 2012-01-23 Tamper-evident fastener

Country Status (8)

Country Link
US (1) US8376478B2 (en)
EP (2) EP2668355B8 (en)
CN (1) CN202296051U (en)
AU (1) AU2012209333B2 (en)
BR (1) BR112013018518B1 (en)
CA (1) CA2825297C (en)
ES (1) ES2643388T3 (en)
WO (1) WO2012103029A2 (en)

Families Citing this family (13)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US9400873B2 (en) 2011-12-21 2016-07-26 Deka Products Limited Partnership System, method, and apparatus for dispensing oral medications
US9243427B2 (en) * 2011-01-24 2016-01-26 Carefusion 303, Inc. Self-aligning modular latch
US9131774B2 (en) * 2011-01-24 2015-09-15 Carefusion 303, Inc. Self-guiding insertion and bias mechanism
EP2890429A2 (en) * 2012-08-31 2015-07-08 Sanofi-Aventis Deutschland GmbH Medical device with fastening elements for internal components which allow for abrogation of the connection upon impact force above a threshold
US9410348B1 (en) * 2014-01-04 2016-08-09 Carlson Pet Products, Inc. Latch apparatus
DE102014012466B4 (en) * 2014-08-21 2016-03-10 Audi Ag Lock wedge system as a vehicle door lock
US9731827B2 (en) 2014-10-27 2017-08-15 C&D Zodiac, Inc. Overhead storage bin latch system
US9499272B2 (en) * 2014-10-27 2016-11-22 C&D Zodiac, Inc. Overhead storage bin latch system
US10871349B2 (en) 2015-01-05 2020-12-22 Crosman Corporation Firearm associated electronic device with acceleration resistant latch
CN104925437B (en) * 2015-05-07 2017-04-26 华中科技大学 Expansible intelligent warehousing system facing SMD
CA3004620C (en) 2015-11-13 2024-01-30 Humanscale Corporation A medical technology station and method of use
CA3079391A1 (en) * 2017-10-17 2019-04-25 Helmer, Inc. Undercounter refrigerator with access control
WO2023129155A1 (en) * 2021-12-29 2023-07-06 Carefusion 303, Inc. Patient safety device maintenance system

Citations (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20040069023A1 (en) 2002-10-10 2004-04-15 Masseth James E. Lockable latch with catch for a safe
US20040108795A1 (en) 2002-12-06 2004-06-10 Meek Robert B. High capacity drawer with mechanical indicator for a dispensing device

Family Cites Families (17)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US928904A (en) * 1909-03-23 1909-07-20 Henry W Rountree Trunk-lock.
US4768021C1 (en) * 1987-09-18 2002-07-23 Jmf Products Llc Safe for loaded hand gun
ATE87065T1 (en) * 1989-03-01 1993-04-15 Thomas Matouschek VALUABLES.
US5745366A (en) * 1994-07-14 1998-04-28 Omnicell Technologies, Inc. Pharmaceutical dispensing device and methods
US6011999A (en) * 1997-12-05 2000-01-04 Omnicell Technologies, Inc. Apparatus for controlled dispensing of pharmaceutical and medical supplies
US6116461A (en) * 1998-05-29 2000-09-12 Pyxis Corporation Method and apparatus for the dispensing of drugs
US6582036B2 (en) * 2001-07-23 2003-06-24 The Vendo Company Door retaining device
US6631805B2 (en) 2001-08-27 2003-10-14 Janice B. Bramen Medical pill dispenser
US7067737B2 (en) * 2003-09-16 2006-06-27 Mallen Kenneth J Cover plate
IL170755A (en) * 2005-09-08 2010-06-16 John Mcfarland Dispensing system for tools
DE102006034182A1 (en) * 2006-07-24 2008-02-07 Siemens Ag Object e.g. road map, storage compartment for use in motor vehicle, has hook for hanging objects arranged in area of opening, lying on base of compartment in resting position and pivotable into usage position and partially closes opening
DE202006016234U1 (en) 2006-10-19 2007-02-01 Ringfeder Vbg Gmbh Manual rapid connection element for vehicle electrics between vehicle and trailer has locking element to lock and unlock connecting element having both electrical and pneumatic or hydraulic connections
US7743935B2 (en) * 2006-12-15 2010-06-29 Maid Randy R Lock box
US7992746B2 (en) * 2008-02-11 2011-08-09 Carefusion 303, Inc. Method and apparatus for removing, inserting and securing receptacles in a receptacle tray
US8234008B2 (en) 2008-02-29 2012-07-31 Carefusion 303, Inc. Lidded drawer for single line item dispensing
KR101155000B1 (en) * 2009-02-02 2012-06-14 엘지전자 주식회사 Washing machine
US8335588B2 (en) * 2010-06-30 2012-12-18 Carefusion 303, Inc. Multi-lidded dispensing cartridge system

Patent Citations (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20040069023A1 (en) 2002-10-10 2004-04-15 Masseth James E. Lockable latch with catch for a safe
US20040108795A1 (en) 2002-12-06 2004-06-10 Meek Robert B. High capacity drawer with mechanical indicator for a dispensing device

Non-Patent Citations (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Title
See also references of EP2668355A4

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
EP2668355A2 (en) 2013-12-04
US20120187815A1 (en) 2012-07-26
US8376478B2 (en) 2013-02-19
AU2012209333A1 (en) 2013-08-15
WO2012103029A3 (en) 2012-11-01
BR112013018518A2 (en) 2018-09-04
EP2668355B1 (en) 2017-07-12
EP3225768A1 (en) 2017-10-04
CN202296051U (en) 2012-07-04
CA2825297C (en) 2018-10-30
EP3225768B1 (en) 2020-07-08
ES2643388T3 (en) 2017-11-22
CN102602636A (en) 2012-07-25
AU2012209333B2 (en) 2017-03-30
EP2668355B8 (en) 2017-10-25
EP2668355A4 (en) 2015-02-25
CA2825297A1 (en) 2012-08-02
BR112013018518B1 (en) 2020-07-14

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
CA2825297C (en) Tamper-evident fastener
EP2448542B1 (en) Weight-based dispensing system
CA2767765C (en) Rotating multi-latch release mechanism
US8262174B2 (en) Multi-latch release mechanism
EP3757952B1 (en) Single-item-access drawer
US8833115B2 (en) Antitheft device for a product display case
US8234008B2 (en) Lidded drawer for single line item dispensing
CN102862774B (en) Automatic article management and access device
CN205210915U (en) Use RFID automatic identification technique to store device of management to medical consumables article
CN203789462U (en) Intelligent drug storage equipment
JP2004528141A (en) Distribution method using wireless coupling
WO2007058048A1 (en) Storage system and stored article id management method
EP3493129A1 (en) Rfid scanning device
US20040177794A1 (en) Protective enclosure
US20190214123A1 (en) A method and a system for storing drugs in distribution packages, and a storage for drug distribution packages
JP2015144758A (en) delivery box system
CN209300482U (en) A kind of finance cabinet
KR20170131761A (en) A variable storage box
CN211380360U (en) Close-protection drawer for boxed medicine
US10858863B2 (en) Self-locking lock for merchandise security
CN102602636B (en) Comprise the method that the container of securing member, storage cabinet and detection container unauthorized are opened
TWM430917U (en) Burglarproof case
JP2011001110A (en) Fraudulent use preventing apparatus for unlocking apparatus in anti-theft apparatus
KR20130005126U (en) Chest for custody of things

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
121 Ep: the epo has been informed by wipo that ep was designated in this application

Ref document number: 12738810

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: A2

ENP Entry into the national phase

Ref document number: 2825297

Country of ref document: CA

REEP Request for entry into the european phase

Ref document number: 2012738810

Country of ref document: EP

WWE Wipo information: entry into national phase

Ref document number: 2012738810

Country of ref document: EP

NENP Non-entry into the national phase

Ref country code: DE

ENP Entry into the national phase

Ref document number: 2012209333

Country of ref document: AU

Date of ref document: 20120123

Kind code of ref document: A

REG Reference to national code

Ref country code: BR

Ref legal event code: B01A

Ref document number: 112013018518

Country of ref document: BR

ENP Entry into the national phase

Ref document number: 112013018518

Country of ref document: BR

Kind code of ref document: A2

Effective date: 20130719