U.S. patent application number 08/935091 was filed with the patent office on 2001-12-27 for automatic empty carrier storage, retrieval and distribuition system.
Invention is credited to VALERINO, FRED M. SR..
Application Number | 20010056311 08/935091 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 25466581 |
Filed Date | 2001-12-27 |
United States Patent
Application |
20010056311 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
VALERINO, FRED M. SR. |
December 27, 2001 |
AUTOMATIC EMPTY CARRIER STORAGE, RETRIEVAL AND DISTRIBUITION
SYSTEM
Abstract
The present invention relates to pneumatic tube systems
generally. More specifically, it relates to an automated system for
the storage and distribution of empty carriers for a pneumatic tube
system. The system comprises an easy to use one-touch process and
includes the following apparatus: storage cabinets and pneumatic
tube system comprising a blower, controller, retrieval cabinets,
and main station. According to the invention there is provided an
automated storage and distribution system comprising a pneumatic
tube system, a first diverter with blower, and a storage cabinet
with a second diverter. The system comprises several methods which
are currently in the market place, and is useful in many places,
such as hospitals, where the automated processing of pharmaceutical
products via robot devices is used. Such a system is disclosed in
co-pending application Parenteral Products Automation System
(PPAS), application Ser. No. 08/513,569.
Inventors: |
VALERINO, FRED M. SR.;
(TIMONIUM, MD) |
Correspondence
Address: |
JOHN F WARD
WARD AND OLIVO
708 THIRD AVENUE
NEW YORK
NY
10017
|
Family ID: |
25466581 |
Appl. No.: |
08/935091 |
Filed: |
September 25, 1997 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
700/214 ; 406/1;
700/218; 700/230 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65G 51/40 20130101;
B65G 51/46 20130101; B65G 51/06 20130101; B65G 51/32 20130101; B65G
51/34 20130101; B65G 51/26 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
700/214 ;
700/218; 700/230; 406/1 |
International
Class: |
G06F 019/00; B65G
051/40 |
Claims
We claim:
1. A storage and distribution system for the automatic storage and
distribution of pneumatic tube carriers within a pneumatic tube
system, said storage and distribution system comprising: at least
one computer having a database capable of receiving information and
transmitting said information within said pneumatic tube system; a
pneumatic tube carrier storage means; a distribution means for
transporting said carriers to said pneumatic tube system; a
plurality of said carriers, said carriers being generally
cylindrical and disposed about a longitudinal axis; and a control
means for coordinating transportation of said carriers from said
storage and distribution system to said pneumatic tube system;
wherein said storage means is connected to said pneumatic tube
system by conventional pneumatic tube means.
2. A storage and distribution system according to claim 1, wherein
said storage and distribution system comprises an auto-indexing
unit.
3. A storage and distribution system according to claim 1, wherein
said storage means comprises a plurality of compartments.
4. A storage and distribution system according to claim 3, wherein
each of said compartments can store a plurality of said
carriers.
5. A storage and distribution system for the automatic storage and
distribution of pneumatic tube carriers within a pneumatic tube
system, said storage and distribution system comprising: at least
one computer; a storage means; a distribution means; a plurality of
said carriers; and a control means; wherein said computer has a
database capable of receiving information and transmitting said
information within said storage and distribution system; wherein
said storage means is connected to said pneumatic tube system by
conventional pneumatic tubes; and wherein said control means
coordinates said distribution of said carriers from said storage
means system to said pneumatic tube system.
6. A storage and distribution system according to claim 5, wherein
said storage and distribution system further comprises: an
auto-indexing device.
7. A storage and distribution system according to claim 5, wherein
said storage means comprises a plurality of compartments.
8. A storage and distribution system according to claim 7, wherein
each of said compartments can store a plurality of said
carriers.
9. A method for providing a storage and distribution system for the
automatic storage and distribution of pneumatic tube carriers
having a computer, a plurality of carriers, a pneumatic tube system
and a carrier storage device, said method comprising the steps of:
inputting information into said computer, wherein said computer
controls said storage and said distribution in accordance with said
information; storing said carriers in said carrier storage device;
transmitting said information from said computer to said carrier
storage device and said pneumatic tube system; transporting said
carriers from said carrier storage device to said pneumatic tube
system; wherein said carrier storage device is connected to said
pneumatic tube system by conventional pneumatic tube means.
10. A method for providing a storage and distribution system
according to claim 9, wherein said carrier storage device comprises
conventional tubing for pneumatic tube systems.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of application
Ser. No. 08/513,569, filed Aug. 10, 1995.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The present invention relates to pneumatic tube systems
generally. More specifically, it relates to an automated system for
the remote storage and automatic distribution of empty carriers for
a pneumatic tube system. The system comprises an easy to use
one-touch process which includes the following apparatus: storage
pipes and pneumatic tube system comprising a blower, a controller,
diverters, and a main zone diverter. Further, the system comprises
the ability to use a process whereby empty carriers can be stored
for later automatic retrieval and distribution from individual
storage units housed in retrieval cabinets which have separate
pneumatic tube blowers, integrated controllers, and a robotics
interface, all contained within a pneumatic tube system.
[0003] Pneumatic tube transportation systems are currently used to
transfer Pharmaceuticals, blood samples, medicines, intravenous
bags, viral samples or other biological or chemical matter between
locations within a hospital, laboratory, etc., quickly and
reliably. Manual delivery can be slow and unreliable, causing a
number of problems, such as harm to patients in hospitals. Thus, it
is an object of this invention to combine the pneumatic tube system
with an automated storage and distribution apparatus to provide a
complete automated system for the efficient operation of a
pneumatic tube system. Another object of this invention is to
provide an automatic storage, retrieval and distribution system for
empty pneumatic tube carriers from a central storage area to either
a robotics interface or a predetermined staion within the pneumatic
tube system, all without any manual intervention.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0004] According to the invention there is provided an automated
storage and distribution system comprising a pneumatic tube system,
a connecting diverter with blower, and storage piping with
diverters. The system comprises several methods which are currently
in the market place, and is useful in many places, such as
hospitals, where the automated processing of pharmaceutical
products via robot devices is used. Such a system is disclosed in
co-pending application Parenteral Products Automation System
(PPAS), application Ser. No. 08/513,569. There, a system is
disclosed wherein robot devices are employed having gripping means
presentable to a plurality of stations, each station being adapted
to cooperate with the robot device in a sequence of operations such
as to produce a measured pharmaceutical dose from a supply of a
pharmaceutically acceptable substances, and one of the stations
comprising means for locating in parallel a plurality of medical
hypodermic syringes for containing a said substance and for
operating said syringe. The substance might comprise a medication
to be administered to a patient, or a potentially biologically
damaging substance, such as a radionuclide or a cytotoxin. The
measured dose might be retained in a said syringe, or in a medical
vial. Preferably, means are provided for controlling the apparatus
in a predetermined sequence of operations.
[0005] Sterility is an essential characteristic of injectable and
ophthalmic pharmaceutical products. This characteristic is imparted
to the product by virtue of the type of manufacturing process. If
during the process, all components, solutions and equipment are
pre-sterilized and assembled aseptically, that is, using techniques
which exclude microorganisms, the product is deemed an "aseptic
fill". Other injectable products, in addition to the aseptic
processing, undergo sterilization when in the final container,
typically using steam under pressure. This procedure, if properly
designed and executed, results in a terminally sterilized
product.
[0006] One solution to the problems incurred through human
contamination is through automation of the processing procedure. A
paper entitled, "A Robotics System for the Sterility Testing of
Injectables," Barbara J. Zlotnick and Michael L. Franklin,
Pharmaceutical Technology, May 1987, describes a robotics system
for sterility testing of vials. According to this paper a robot is
used to perform sterility testing and minimize the manipulations
performed by the analyst, thereby reducing the potential for
technical contamination attributable to personnel. Since human
intervention is minimized during testing, the environment of the
test remains cleaner with respect to viable particulate matter.
There is a lower level of human activity and less potential for
contamination from shedding or from disruption of the laminarity of
the air flow under the hood. A cleaner environment can then be used
for a greater proportion of the work day.
[0007] In general, robotics dispensing devices known in the art
include a dispensing apparatus comprising a base, and a robot
device on the base. A number of stations are located on the base
which cooperate with the robot device in a sequence of operations
such as to produce a measured pharmaceutical dose from a supply of
pharmaceutically acceptable substances. Robotics dispensing
apparatus systems are used for the rapid and efficient processing
of a wide variety of pharmaceutical products, as well as perform
various mechanical functions. Further, use of the robot device
provides an efficient manner in which to maintain a sterile
environment to produce the pharmaceutical products.
[0008] The transporting of articles via pneumatic tubes is old and
well known. Basically, an object is placed within a container which
is then transported by air under either positive or negative
pressure from one destination to another. The transport is moved
within a closed tube. The interior of the closed tube and the outer
dimension of the carrier form a seal, so that the carrier can be
propelled between the destinations by a vacuum.
[0009] In general, pneumatic tube systems known in the art include
a closed continuous passageway having a predetermined inner
cross-sectional dimension where the passageway includes a plurality
of curves or bends having a predetermined radius. A fluid, such as
air, is controllably forced through the passageway in a loop to
move a carrier through the passageway. In order for the carrier to
move freely through the passageway, the dimensions, and in
particular the length, of the carriers being used have been limited
by the inner cross-sectional dimension and curvature radius of the
passageway. Pneumatic delivery systems are used extensively for the
rapid and efficient transportation of a wide variety of articles.
These delivery systems are used in a number of business operations,
including banks, hospitals, office buildings, industrial plants,
and truck terminals as a few examples.
[0010] One area of commerce which currently uses the pneumatic tube
and the transporting of material via the pneumatic tube on a fairly
regular basis is the hospital or biomedical research/manufacturing
industry. One particular application of this technology is in the
area of transporting blood samples, medicines, intravenous bags,
viral samples or other biological or chemical matter between
locations within a hospital or laboratory.
[0011] In that environment, for example, test tubes or vials of
liquids are placed within a tube carrier, and are typically secured
by foam or clamps within the carrier. The purpose of securing the
samples (which are often contained within glass test tubes with
rubber stoppers) is to help prevent breakage. When glass breaks or
stoppers become dislodged (as can happen when hospital workers fail
to properly secure the stoppers in the first place), chemical or
biological substances can leak into the interior of the carrier. In
turn, said substances can leak out of the interior of the carrier,
thereby contaminating the interior walls of the tube system.
[0012] The vials or vessels of liquids, solids or gasses within the
carrier can move or shift during transport, which can also lead to
breakage. This problem is especially acute, as the carriers are
often traveling at speeds in excess of 25 feet per second. Because
of the rapid acceleration and deceleration of pneumatic tube
carriers, the carrier contents can easily become dislodged, and can
break within the carrier, if not for clamps, foam securing means,
and the like. Nonetheless, accidents can happen, whereby despite
the best efforts toward securing or protecting the interior
vessels, they can break, or their stoppers can become dislodged. In
fact, dislodged stoppers are a primary problem, due mainly to
workers who may inadvertently fail to secure them properly in the
first place.
[0013] If the leaking substance is of a sufficient quantity, the
substance (often a fluid) can leak out of the carrier. In that
case, the entire tube transport system could become contaminated
with the substance. For example, if fluids containing a virus or
bacteria sample (for example, the HIV virus or the Ebola bacteria)
were to leak out of a carrier, the interior of the vacuum transport
tubes could become breeding grounds for the biological
specimens--thus contaminating the exteriors of all carriers that
pass through the system. Also equally important is that fluids
escaping from the carrier can "gum up" the interior of the vacuum
tubes, making the smooth passage of the carrier difficult,
resulting in enhanced downtime, increased maintenance expense, and
increased power consumption (that is, friction would increase
within the tube system).
[0014] Of course, other problems can result. For example, a
hospital worker may cut his or her hands on a broken vial or
syringe when they proceed to open the carrier, and dangerous
substances contained within the carrier may come in contact with
the hospital worker. Also, in the case where toxic, aromatic
substances such as toluene or benzene are being transported within
vessels contained within the carriers, obviously, the worker would
be placed in great danger if he or she opened the carrier under
those circumstances. Basically, if a hospital worker opens a
carrier expecting to remove sealed vessels and/or containers, and
conversely, is presented with spilled contents (which may often be
accompanied by broken glass, for example), then, the possibility of
infecting the hospital worker or the overall tube system is great.
For that reason, a watertight or airtight carrier could facilitate
containing the hazardous substances within the carrier, so that
vessels that may break or become unsealed in the transport process
are contained within the carrier. Of course, problems can still
result if workers open a carrier without knowledge of the hazardous
circumstances within. To safeguard against that event, the carrier
could contain an indicator on its exterior that notifies the
carrier handler of the interior circumstances--before the carrier
is opened. In that case, if the interior contents are, for example,
toxic gasses, the carrier may be opened in a controlled, safe
environment.
[0015] It is preferable in the present invention to use a carrier
with suitable watertight and airtight properties, such that matter
from within the carrier cannot escape to the outside, and matter
that has become uncontrollable within the carrier can activate a
warning indicator on the exterior of the carrier, so that hospital
or other workers who use the carriers will not open carriers with
uncontrolled contents (without ample warning that proper measures
should be taken). That could be facilitated by a warning signal
indicative of a spill or other abnormal condition within the
carrier. Such a warning signal may even be a digital output, which
can be decoded, to indicate what type of hazard lies within the
carrier. Such a warning signal could also trigger a locking
mechanism, making the opening of a carrier with spilled interior
substances impossible, without authorization and a form of key,
electronic or otherwise. Also, based on the contents of the
carrier, the locking mechanism may be activated so that only
certain parties may be able to open the carrier, regardless of
whether an uncontrolled substance is contained within. For example,
if a dangerous controlled substance such as morphine is being
transported, the carrier may be locked, and only certain authorized
persons would be able to open the carrier.
[0016] Pneumatic tube carriers for use with the present invention
as well as in such pneumatic tube systems come in a wide range of
sizes and shapes to accommodate the physical articles to be
transported in the system. As an example, pneumatic carriers are
provided for transporting cash, messages, stock transaction slips,
letters, blueprints, electronic data processing cards, x-rays,
pharmaceutical supplies, blood samples, narcotics, viral and
bacteria cultures, and a variety of other small physical
objects.
[0017] In the past, various mechanisms have been utilized as
closure devices for pneumatic tube carriers. For example, many such
carriers include an end cap that is hinged with respect to a
cylindrical hull on one side of the hull and which has a latch that
fastens the end cap to the opposite side of the hull in a closed
position. Such carriers employ a variety of fasteners, such as snap
fasteners, elastic straps with holes that fit over hooks, or straps
that may be secured to bendable posts.
[0018] Other types of pneumatic tube carriers are of the side
opening variety. One conventional form of such a carrier employs
two generally semi-cylindrical sections that are hinged along one
longitudinal edge. The hinged sections may be swung toward or away
from each other to effectuate opening and closing of the carrier
hull. Locking is achieved by virtue of the end caps, which may be
twisted to effectuate threaded engagement of the caps onto the
carrier hull ends when the hinged hull sections have been closed.
That is, the end caps are rotated in such a fashion as to be drawn
towards each other onto the ends of the hull, thereby immobilizing
the hull sections relative to each other. Rotation of the end caps
in the opposite direction releases the hull sections and allows
them to be opened.
[0019] One preferable configuration is that of a side opening,
wherein the two sides are hinged together, and the two sides are
held together when the carrier is closed by use of a hook, or
detent or indented type locking lip. Such carriers include latching
mechanisms to prevent the door from coming ajar or opening during
transit, which could cause the carrier to become lodged in the
pneumatic tubes and would also allow the contents of the carrier to
spill out into the tube system. In addition, the instructions for
latching such side opening containers or carriers are simple to
follow, so that the container can be easily placed within the tube
system. Such hinging and locking mechanisms make waterproofing or
sealing the carrier a particularly difficult task, as the hinges
and locks are embedded within the mold of the carrier, which is
generally formed of plastic.
[0020] In another type of side opening pneumatic carrier, the
access to the carrier is gained by simultaneously pulling and
twisting the ends of the carrier to allow the side opening door to
be opened. The instructions for such a two-step process are often
difficult for many users to follow, and the physical effort and
manual dexterity needed to simultaneously pull and twist both ends
of the carrier against a spring resistance is often troublesome for
many hospital workers.
[0021] The present invention displays a preference for a pneumatic
carrier which can be easily opened, but which also maintains a
watertight and airtight seal. Also, the carrier should be able to
maintain its air and water tightness, despite the fact that it is
subjected to a vacuum transport system, and despite the fact that
it will be subjected to extreme environmental conditions, such as
repeated use, frequent drops, dust and dirt particles, high speed
travel and acceleration, and the like. The carrier should also have
a supplemental sensor mechanism to indicate that abnormal interior
conditions have developed.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0022] The present invention relates to an automated system for the
storage and distribution of empty carriers for a pneumatic tube
system. The system comprises an easy to use one-touch process and
includes the following apparatus: storage piping and pneumatic tube
system comprising a blower, controller, diverters, and a main zone
diverter.
[0023] Pneumatic tube transportation systems are currently used to
transfer Pharmaceuticals, blood samples, medicines, intravenous
bags, viral samples or other biological or chemical matter between
locations within a hospital, laboratory, etc., quickly and
reliably. Manual delivery can be slow and unreliable, causing a
number of problems, such as harm to patients in hospitals. Thus, it
is an object of this invention to combine a conventional pneumatic
tube system with an automated storage and distribution apparatus to
provide a completely automated system for the efficient operation
of a pneumatic tube system.
[0024] According to the invention there is provided an automated
storage and distribution system comprising a pneumatic tube system,
a connecting diverter with blower, and a storage cabinet with
diverter. The system comprises several methods which are currently
in the market place, and is useful in many places, such as
hospitals where the automated processing of pharmaceutical products
via robot devices is used. There, robot devices are employed having
gripping means presentable to a plurality of stations, each station
being adapted to cooperate with the robot device in a sequence of
operations such as to provide a measured dose of a specific
pharmaceutical substance. The substance might comprise a medication
to be administered to a patient, or a potentially biologically
damaging substance, such as a radionuclide or a cytotoxin. The
measured dose might be retained in a said syringe, or in a medical
vial. Preferably, means are provided for controlling the apparatus
in a predetermined sequence of operations.
[0025] In the present invention, a computer interface provides
bi-directional communication between the storage piping, pneumatic
tube system, peripheral devices and a computer. The storage piping
employed by the system are responsive to computer commands and
capable of holding a plurality of carriers per pipe. Also attached
to the storage piping may be a carrier auto-indexing unit which
would catalog the carrier activity, keep record of the carriers in
storage, i.e., how many are currently stored there along with their
identification numbers, the users who request carriers, etc. The
system described will receive its instructions from a computer
interface established at the facility where the invention is in
place. These instructions would be communicated to the storage
piping located at the processing stations.
[0026] Although the embodiment of the present invention will be
further described as used in hospitals to supply parenteral
products, it is not limited to such a use. Other expressions of its
use include dietary, laboratory and central supply systems.
Additionally, motorized carts may be used for the transport of the
empty pneumatic tube carriers from the storage cabinets to the
receiving station or nurses' station or some other designated
location.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0027] The invention will be better understood with reference to
the drawings, in which:
[0028] FIG. 1 shows functional block diagram of the present
invention;
[0029] FIG. 2 shows a perspective diagrammatic representation of an
automatic specimen receiving station;
[0030] FIG. 3A shows a perspective diagrammatic representation of
an automatic pharmacy distribution system for injectable
products;
[0031] FIG. 3B shows a perspective diagrammatic representation of
an automatic pharmacy distribution system for oral/solid
products;
[0032] FIG. 4 shows a block diagram of the pneumatic tube carrier
loading station using a turret style loader;
[0033] FIG. 5 shows a pneumatic tube loading carousel with a
capacity of 50 carriers, a 4 zone inbound and outbound line
system;
[0034] FIG. 6 shows an overall view of a carrier suitable for use
with the present invention;
[0035] FIG. 6A shows a cross-section of both the end and side views
of a preferable carrier for this invention;
[0036] FIG. 7A shows the interiors of both halves of a preferable
carrier for use with the present invention;
[0037] FIG. 7B is a side view of a half of a carrier for use with
the present invention, which shows a latch to lock the carrier in
its closed position, and an indicator for signaling conditions
interior to a carrier;
[0038] FIG. 7C is an end view of a carrier for use with the present
invention, which shows an end bumper, and an end opening which
allows the photo eyes to detect the contents of the carrier;
[0039] FIG. 8 is a perspective diagrammatic representation of a
multi-zone pneumatic tube system.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0040] The purpose of the present invention is to provide a secure
storage and retrieval system for pneumatic tube carriers, in a
plurality of different compartments wherein the carriers can be
retrieved from any compartment.
[0041] Referring now to FIG. 1, an schematic overview of the
present invention is shown, including a representation of how it
may be positioned within an overall pneumatic tube system. FIG. 1
shows the present invention comprising, first, storage compartment
18 which comprises diverter 20, empty line 22, stored carriers 24,
and auto-indexing unit 26. Connecting storage compartment 18 to the
pneumatic tube system 10, an example of such system is shown in
FIG. 8, are blower 14 and diverter 16. Optionally, an
AutoaceptorTube (as described in Application Ser. No. 08/632,020)
with pneumatic tube interface 12 can be used to include an
automatic inspection station as well as an automatic product
insertion/removal station.
[0042] The present invention includes blower 14 and diverter 16
which are necessary to coordinate and direct the transportation of
carriers 24 from storage compartment 18 to pneumatic tube system
10, and vice versa. Within storage compartment 18 there are a
plurality of storage lines 22, each of which can store at least ten
carriers 24. Also, auto-indexing unit 26 allows the system to
recognize and keep track of every carrier that is stored in storage
compartment 18, including the time of storage, the name of the user
who stored carrier 24, and any other information pertinent to the
storage and retrieval of carrier 24.
[0043] By means of a touch key, only authorized employees can send
to and retrieve from this storage cabinet. Even when the cabinet is
installed in an unsecured location, the carriers cannot be
retrieved by anyone, thus creating a secure storage unit. Several
applications and locations for the present invention are available,
such as large supermarkets, department stores or even where the
storage of valuable goods or paperwork is crucial.
[0044] To better understand the present invention, it is helpful to
look at through an example of a toll plaza. A tool plaza is a
collection point on a highway where money has to be paid to cross a
certain section of that road. A toll plaza comprises a main
building and several toll booths, for example ten. Similarly, the
present invention comprises a "main building" and several "toll
booths".
[0045] Here, most of the equipment, the blower, the controller, the
retrieval cabinet and the main/rejection station is located in the
"main building". The "toll booths" each have a send/receive tube, a
box with a PSMA/PLCD-T card and a touch key reader. These all
operate together to provide enhanced security for the storage and
retrieval of the carriers.
[0046] The system of the present invention works by the user
initializing a touch key. Before the start of a shift, the user
gets a touch key with a destination number and an entrance level.
An entrance level is described as an access level providing for
security within the system. For example, there may be three
entrance levels, such as "User Level", "Operator Level" and
"Supervisor Level". Each level would grant certain access rights or
capabilities. For example, someone with access under any level may
send a carrier from the stations, while the "User Level" and
"Operator Level" may be restricted to only opening the retrieval
compartment when the destination number on the touch key is the
same as the user number on the compartment. "Supervisor Level",
however, would not be restricted, and could access any compartment.
Similarly, with respect to the controller of the storage cabinets,
the "User Level" would be restricted the most, only allowing
viewing of the "overall look" of the system, while the "Operator
Level" could, in addition, do the manual and the full purge, as
well as look at the unit information. Of course, the "Supervisor
Level" would then have full access rights to all the menus of the
controller.
[0047] For further security, a specific usernumber could be
designated and programmed in an operator touch key to prevent a
user from opening any compartment, something such as "000".
Additionally, the various levels assigned to each touch key, as
well as the names of each of the designated users, can be
programmed by the touch key program through any personal
computer.
[0048] After the touch key initialization, the user can then make a
shipment. First, the user loads the carriers with f.e. coins, and
sends the carrier to either the main station or to an individual
compartment. If it is to the main station, then, on the touch
keypad, the user dials the destination code of the main station,
and loads the carrier in the send/retrieve tube. The system then
asks for the user to touch the touch key to read the name of the
user. After this, the carrier will be sent automatically and the
transmission list of this shipment will be recorded with the name
of the user on the touch key.
[0049] If, on the other hand, shipment is to the individual
compartment, the process is slightly varied. First, after each
shipment, the destination code will be updated to "000". When this
code appears on the screen and the user is loading the carrier in
the send/retrieve tube, the system will ask for the users touch key
to read the destination of the user's compartment, as well as the
name of the user. Then, the carrier will be sent automatically and
the transmission list of this shipment will be recorded with the
name of the user on the touch key.
[0050] With the above described procedure, it is irrelevant which
"toll booth" station the user made the shipment from, the carrier
will always go to his own compartment. In the embodiment of the
present invention, a maximum of ten carriers can be stored per
compartment. When more than ten carriers are sent to an individual
compartment, the station will indicate that the compartment is full
and that the carrier must be sent to the main station. In another
embodiment, the system may automatically send the carrier to the
main station when it determines the compartment to be full, while
notifying the user of said action.
[0051] The next step involved is the retrieval process. After the
user's shift, the user goes to the retrieval compartment and
touches the reader on the compartment with his touch key. When the
destination code in the touch key is equal with the usernumber of
the compartment, the door will be opened and the carriers will roll
out. When all of the carriers are out, the user touches the reader
with his touch key again, and the compartment door closes. All of
the actions of the cabinet are recorded with the date/name and the
name on the touch key. When the compartment is opened and closed,
the controller will reset the counter of that compartment to "0"
and new carriers can be sent to the compartment.
[0052] The supervisor can open any compartment and is allowed to
open the cabinet itself. On a side of the cabinet is provided an
extra touch key reader which activates, after reading a supervisor
key, two solenoids which keep the door of the cabinet closed. Of
course, every interference of a supervisor will be recorded in the
transmission list.
[0053] Additionally, a printer or personal computer can be
connected on the controller to store and view the transmission list
and maintenance information. This can provide recordings of the
time and location of the origination and destination of all
shipments made. Also, a modem can be connected to the controller
for immediate service response.
[0054] Referring now to FIG. 2, shown is an automatic receiving
station 28 for use in conjunction with the present invention. FIG.
2 shows an automatic receiving station 28 for receiving products
sent through a pneumatic tube system in a carrier. Like FIG. 3A and
3B, FIG. 2 shows an automated system comprising three stages, here,
a carrier opening stage 30, a product removal stage 32, and a
carrier closing stage 34. The empty carrier first enters the
opening stage 30, after coming from the pneumatic tube system, and
is opened. The carrier is then moved to the removal stage 32 where
the appropriate product is automatically removed from the carrier.
Once the product is removed from the carrier, the carrier is moved
to the third stage where the carrier can be inspected and closed
securely. The carrier would then be sent back to the empty carrier
storage cabinet 18 of the present invention.
[0055] FIG. 3A shows an automatic loading and inspection station
for injectable products to be loaded into carrier and sent to their
destinations through the pneumatic tube system. FIG. 3A shows an
automated system comprising a carrier opening stage 36, a carrier
loading stage 38, and an inspection/closure stage 40. The empty
carrier first enters the opening stage 36, after coming from the
empty carrier storage and distribution system, where it is opened.
The carrier is then moved to the loading stage 38 where the
appropriate injectable product is automatically placed into the
carrier. The injectable product is brought to the carrier via an
incoming conveyor 42 from the product production station. The
product enters the carrier through an opening in the top of the
system. Once the product is loaded into the carrier, the carrier is
moved to the third stage where the product and carrier are
inspected. If approved, the carrier is closed securely and sent
into the pneumatic tube system where it is delivered to the proper
location.
[0056] Similarly, FIG. 3B shows an automatic loading and inspection
station for oral/solid products to be loaded into carrier and sent
to their destinations through the pneumatic tube system. Like FIG.
3A, FIG. 3B shows an automated system comprising a carrier opening
stage 36', a carrier loading stage 38', and an inspection/closure
stage 40'. The empty carrier first enters the opening stage 36',
after coming from the empty carrier storage and distribution system
18, and is opened. The carrier is then moved to the loading stage
38' where the appropriate oral/solid product is automatically
placed into the carrier. The oral/solid product is brought to the
carrier via a robot system 42' which selects the appropriate
oral/solid product from a product storage station. The robot system
42' then inserts the oral/solid product into the carrier through an
opening in the top of the system. Once the product is loaded into
the carrier, the carrier is moved to the third stage where the
product and carrier are inspected. If approved, the carrier is
closed securely and sent into the pneumatic tube system where it is
delivered to the proper location.
[0057] FIG. 4 represents a fifty carrier carousel loading station
for the pneumatic tube system. It shows a fifty carrier carousel
50, conveyor 44, loading dock 52, four outbound tubes 54, four
inbound tubes 56, and photo eyes 58. The transport bin containing
the prepared product is transported to loading dock 52 via conveyor
44 from the inspection station. There a carrier 10 is presented to
loading dock 52 as the fifty carrier carousel rotates past loading
dock 52. A carrier 10 is presented to loading dock 52 in a closed
position where photo eyes 58 verify that the carrier is the
appropriate style carrier, that the carrier has an insert, and that
the carrier insert is empty. If verified, the carrier 10 is removed
from the carousel and the product is inserted into carrier 10.
Carrier 10 is then inserted into an open member of carousel 50,
which then rotates to the appropriate position to send carrier 10
containing the product to its proper destination via the pneumatic
tube system.
[0058] However, if rejected, carousel 50 rotates so the photo eyes
can check the next carrier, while keeping record of the rejected
carrier and the reason for the rejection. This process continues
until a useful carrier 10 is found. The system could notify the
control system of the reject status of any carrier through a
numbering or other labeling system distinguishing each carrier 10,
and any rejected carrier 10 could be sent to a predetermined
location to correct the defective condition.
[0059] FIG. 5 represents an alternative loading station for the
system. It shows a loading device with a rotating turret 48. The
transport bin containing the prepared product is transported to
loading dock 52 via conveyor 44 from the inspection station. There
a carrier 10 is selected from the rotating turret 48 after being
verified as described above. Once verified, the carrier 10 is
removed from turret 48 and the product is inserted into carrier 10.
Carrier 10 is then inserted back into an open member of turret 48,
which then rotates to the appropriate position to send carrier 10
and product to its proper destination via the pneumatic tube
system.
[0060] Turret 48 can have a single rotatable turret with access to
all zone of the pneumatic tube system, or it can have multiple
rotatable turrets each corresponding to a single zone within the
pneumatic tube system. Also, each turret can have the capacity to
hold many carriers at a time.
[0061] In each of the above described loading systems (as shown in
FIG. 4 &5), a robot arm could be used as the means for removing
the carrier from the turret, inserting the product into the
carrier, and returning the carrier to the appropriate turret
opening. Further, in the case of syringe products, a plunger style
loading system could be used wherein the robot arm or other device
can insert the syringe into the appropriate carrier through an
opening in its end without having to remove it from either the
turret or the carousel.
[0062] Once the product and carrier are loaded, the carousel
rotates to the appropriate outbound pneumatic tube. Four of such
tubes could be used in this invention, one for each zone in the
system. The carrier is then inserted into the tube and then sent to
its predetermined destination. A series of diverters present in the
system allow inter-zone communication, thus allowing the pneumatic
tube system to be used for station to station delivery.
[0063] FIG. 6 is an overall view of carrier 60 preferred for use
with the present invention. It shows carrier 60 consisting of first
and second shells 62, 62' which extend longitudinally and which are
interconnected by hinges 64 and rod locking members 68. Members 68
lock the rod in place, so that hinges 64 can provide for the
opening and closing of the carrier 60 halves 62 and 62'. The
carrier 60 halves 62 and 62' are formed of plastic, for example,
and raised areas are formed along the exterior surface, around the
transverse perimeter of the carrier, as shown as glide or travel or
accelerator rings 66. Two accelerator or glide or travel rings 66
are use for each carrier 60, and may consist of Velcro.RTM. secured
plastic or rubber strips. A suitable felt material or Neoprene.RTM.
material may also be used to make the seals 66, which may also be
cut from a sheet of the material such that moisture will tend to
cause dimension changes substantially in the direction longitudinal
with respect to the carrier, rather than radially. The seals 66 may
be adhesively attached to the shells 62 and 62' at respective
raised portions. The purpose of the rings 66 is so that carrier 60
forms a tight, consistent and secure fit within the interior of the
carrier tubes, so that the carrier 60 may travel effectively
through the carrier tubes. As the carriers 60 often reach speeds in
excess of 25 feet per second, the rings 66 serve to form an air
barrier around the carrier 60, so that the carrier 60 does not jam.
Also, by minimizing air leakage around the carrier, rings 66 can
minimize the air required to propel carrier 60. Felt insert is
provided, as well, so that the rings 66 appear as continuous
concentric circles--and no air can escape the seal the rings 66
form in relation to the interior of the carrier tubes, even where
the hinge assemblies 64 are concerned. Ends of the carrier are
defined by respective resilient bumpers 72. Each of the bumpers 72
is preferably larger than half the diameter of the pneumatic tube
to avoid possible jamming of one carrier 60 with a second carrier
within the pneumatic tube. The shells 62 and 62' are substantially
identical in shape and are preferably molded in the same or a
similar mold form from a suitable plastic material such as
LEXAN.RTM. (a trade mark for a polycarbonate plastic sold by GE
Plastics). Because the shells 62 and 62' are substantially
identical and can often be made from even the same mold, molding
costs can be significantly reduced.
[0064] In order to simplify this description, parts of shell 62
will be described, but it should be understood that corresponding
parts of shell 62' also may exist, as desired. The shell 62 is
generally semi-cylindrical over the major portion of its length,
with the exception, for example, of the raised portions under rings
66. Those raised portions may also correspond to internally concave
zones, which may contribute to the overall structural integrity of
the carrier 60.
[0065] The portions of carrier 60 that support the seals 66 are
positioned intermediate the ends of the carrier 60 at positions
which maximize the available length and diameter dimensions of the
carrier. The shells 62 and 62' further includes tapered or
frusto-conical end portions 70.
[0066] Hinge assemblies 64 are preferably molded as a part of the
shells 62 and 62' and the pivot points of the hinges 64 are offset
from mating edges of the shells 62 and 62' to permit the ends of
the rings 66 and shells 62 and 62' to securely mate together when
closed, without damage to the seal halves 66. The hinges 64 are
preferably located so that they will not contact the interior of
the carrier tube walls. Although the carrier tube walls are often
made of steel, and the carriers 60 are often made of plastic, it is
generally desirable to have only smooth, continuous surfaces
contacting the interior of the carrier tube walls. For example, if
a metallic hinge 64 were to scratch the interior of the carrier
tube wall, ruts could result, which will facilitate air seepage,
and a loss of system efficiency, as air passes through said
ruts.
[0067] FIG. 7A shows the interiors of both halves (62 and 62') of a
preferred carrier 60 for use with the present invention. FIG. 7B is
a side view of a half of a carrier 60 according to the present
invention, which shows a latch 66' to lock the carrier 60 into its
closed position, and an indicator for signaling conditions interior
to a carrier 60. FIG. 7C is an end view of a carrier 60 according
to the present invention, which shows the bumper, and openings 76
and 78 for use with the photo eyes.
[0068] Shells 62 and 62' form an internal cavity when closed
together. That internal cavity is the usually the entire reason why
the carrier 60 exists in the first place. However, certain
exceptions may exist. For example, carrier 60 may be not a cavity
bearing carrier at all, but rather a sophisticated monitoring
vehicle, which contains video or other sensors, to inspect the
interior workings of a pneumatic system. In that case, carrier 60
would be sent through a tube system, and could transmit or record
information indicative of the interior walls of the pneumatic tube
system. More usually, the carrier 60 with its internal cavity in
place will be used to carry articles between remote points.
[0069] Carrier 60 is capable of carrying papers, such as drawings,
business documents, cash, X-ray negatives and the like. Carrier 60
is often used to carry vessels, wherein the vessels often contain
liquid, solid or gaseous materials that should ideally remain
within the vessels. That is, the carrier 60, which moves at high
speeds, is often used to carry vessels that contain various liquid
substances, which are prone toward leaking out of the carrier 60,
if the vessels should break within the carrier 60, or should the
vessels become opened in transit (because, for example, a rubber
stopper was not securely seated in the first place, or otherwise
failed). Specifically, when the carrier 60 is used within the
hospital environment, problems can result when vessels break or
open within the carrier 60. The vessels in hospitals often include
test tube with rubber stoppers, intravenous ("IV") bags, blood
samples, viral or bacteria cultures, chemicals or other drugs,
medicines, acids, or other materials that must be controlled or
contained at all times. Indeed, the vessels may even contain
biohazardous materials, such as HIV infected blood, cultures of
various viral infections, toxic chemicals such as cyanide, and the
like.
[0070] Naturally, whenever fragile objects (such as glass test
tubes) are to be placed in the carrier 60, these objects are
typically mounted in a container or retaining unit, which has been
formed to fit snugly within the cavity defined by the interior
surfaces of shells 62 and 62', thereby limiting the possibility of
damage to the contents as the carrier passes through the pneumatic
tube system. To safeguard against the leakage of such materials,
and others, the carrier 60 according to the present invention has
been designed with an internal perimeter wall 74. Perimeter wall
provides an additional layer of protection against exposure to the
outside world.
[0071] Perimeter wall 74 outlines the entire perimeter of carrier
60--more specifically, the boundaries of shells 62 and 62', as set
forth in FIG. 7A. Also as shown in FIG. 7A, projections and
receptors 72 (on both shells 62 and 62') are adapted to engage each
other, as opposed on the opposing shells 62 and 62'), to retain the
shells 62 and 62' in a closed position as shown in FIG. 6, with the
use of detent latches or locks (not shown). The projections 72 have
respective inclined leading faces for deflecting the projections
radially inwards as the shells 62 and 62' are brought together. As
the shells 62 and 62' move into a closed position, the projections
and receptors 72 move radially outward into respective openings, to
retain the shells 62 and 62' in the closed position. One major
advantage of this arrangement is that the closing of the shells 62
and 62' is a natural action and requires no teaching. Anyone
wishing to close the carrier 60 will naturally bring the shells 62
and 62' together resulting in a snap-action as the detent or
interlocking latches move into their mating openings. Respective
longitudinal edges of the shells 62 and 62' define interlocking
recesses and projections indicated generally by the numerals 72.
These edges locate the shells 62 and 62' relative to one another
when the shells are in the closed position. Also, because of their
shape, the projections/receptors 72 align corresponding edges of
the shells on closing the carrier and also prevent closing the
carrier unless the contents are entirely inside the shells. Further
advantages of these projections 72 include increased torsional
stability because of the interlocking arrangement; and an
incidental advantage that because a carrier which is not completely
closed will not fit into a pneumatic tube, an operator is forced to
ensure that none of the contents project out of the carrier.
[0072] In use, it will be evident that unless the shells 62 and 62'
are closed, the carrier 60 cannot be entered into a pneumatic tube.
This is a significant advantage of the carrier because in the past,
if carriers are entered into a tube without first closing the
carrier, the result may be to lose the contents of the carrier 60
within the pneumatic tube system or in fouling the system to the
extent that it no longer functions satisfactorily. Once the shells
62 and 62' are brought together so that the projections 72 engage
in respective openings, the carrier 60 can be locked by inserting a
key in, for example, a tumbler lock 66' (shown in FIG. 7B) and
turning a key, or setting a combination. The carrier 60 can then be
opened only by further use of the key. However, reference is again
made to FIG. 7B to describe the lock switch 66'. Alternatively,
only authorized persons having a key for an actual lock 66' could
be established, to open the carrier, for example, if a controlled
substance such as morphine is contained within the carrier 60.
[0073] As shown in FIG. 7B, latch switch (or lock) 66' is used to
depress the detent locking mechanism, so that the shells 62 and 62'
can be separated, and the carrier 60 opened. Locking latches 66'
are provided for retaining shells 62 and 62' in the closed
position. In addition, electronically activated locks with pins
(not shown) may be disposed between shells 62 and 62', so that
latch switch 66' may be overridden, or defeated, so that the user
of a carrier 60 will not open it if a vessel has become opened or
broken in travel. To facilitate this function, an indicator is
provided on the exterior of the carrier 60. The indicator is
connected to internal sensor unit. The indicator will serve to
inform the user that a spill or leak has occurred within the cavity
of carrier 60. When the sensor unit detects the presence of a leak
or spill (blood, gas, chemicals, liquids, etc.), the indicator,
which may be a digital display, LED, or even an RS 232
communications port, will inform the user or an external computer,
that something has become uncontrolled within the carrier 60. Then,
proper precautions may be taken when opening the carrier 60. For
example, if toluene has become released within carrier 60, the
sensor will identify it as such (via, for example, gas
chromatography), and will output its result to the indicator. Then,
the indicator, which may be an LED, series of LEDs (which may
indicate, for example, the severity of the interior condition), or
an RS 232 port, can then output the result to a computer (not
shown). In automated carrier tube systems, the carrier could even
inform the receiving station (the opening to the vacuum tubes) of
the condition, so that a user will be presented by, for example, a
warning light, so that they will not open the carrier 60 until, in
the case of toluene, the carrier 60 is brought to a ventilation
hood, so that hazardous fumes may be vented safely away.
[0074] It will be appreciated that although the above parenteral
products automation system description is limited to use in a
hospital, the invention is not limited to such use. For instance,
if found suitable, the invention could be used in other businesses
or enterprises. While the foregoing embodiments of the invention
have been set forth in considerable detail for the purposes of
making a complete disclosure of the invention, it will be apparent
to those of skill in the art that numerous changes may be made in
such details without departing from the spirit and the principles
of the invention.
[0075] FIG. 8 is an overall view of a pneumatic tube system 80. It
shows a three-zone system comprising one blower package 84 per
zone, pneumatic tubes 88, inter-zone diverters 86, computer 82, and
receiving stations .sup.90, all connected via single transmission
tubing. Carriers move through the system shown in FIG. 8 under
vacuum or pressure as supplied by blower package 84. As the
carriers move through the system, the diverters 86 change position
to change the direction of the carrier. Also, diverters 86 make
inter-zone communications possible.
[0076] Although FIG. 8 demonstrates a three zone system with a
limited number of receiving stations 90, a system with numerous
zones and virtually unlimited stations 90 is possible.
[0077] It will be appreciated that although the above description
is limited to a system for use in a hospital pharmacy, the
invention is applicable for other similar purposes. For instance,
the invention may be used with dietaries, laboratories, central
supply areas, etc. While the foregoing embodiments of the invention
have been set forth in considerable detail for the purposes of
making a complete disclosure of the invention, it will be apparent
to those skilled in the art that numerous changes may be made in
such details without departing from the spirit and the principles
of the invention.
[0078] Although the invention herein has been described with
reference to particular embodiments, it is to be understood that
these embodiments are merely illustrative of the principles and
applications of the present invention. It is therefore to be
understood that numerous modifications may be made to the
embodiments described herein and that other arrangements and
techniques may be devised without departing from the intended scope
of the present invention as defined by the appended claims.
* * * * *