U.S. patent application number 11/174990 was filed with the patent office on 2007-01-11 for monthly system for dispensing medication/supplements.
Invention is credited to Howard J. Buller.
Application Number | 20070007162 11/174990 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 37617313 |
Filed Date | 2007-01-11 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070007162 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Buller; Howard J. |
January 11, 2007 |
Monthly system for dispensing medication/supplements
Abstract
A monthly system of dispensing medications/supplements. The
device includes a housing unit, paper chart attaching devices,
divided tray that holds a plurality of semi-transparent storage
containers, a removable time clock alarm system, a detachable paper
caddy with writing instrument holder and a detachable cup or
beverage holder. A lip extends below each side of the rectangle
base of the housing unit enabling additional housing units to be
securely stacked above on the housing unit top or below each
housing unit. Preprinted reminding disks can be used in a container
corresponding to a desired date.
Inventors: |
Buller; Howard J.;
(Amarillo, TX) |
Correspondence
Address: |
NATIONAL IP RIGHTS CENTER, LLC;SCOTT J. FIELDS, ESQ.
550 TOWNSHIP LINE ROAD
SUITE 400
BLUE BELL
PA
19422
US
|
Family ID: |
37617313 |
Appl. No.: |
11/174990 |
Filed: |
July 5, 2005 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
206/534 ;
206/528; 206/570 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61J 7/0069 20130101;
A61J 7/04 20130101; A61J 7/0409 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
206/534 ;
206/528; 206/570 |
International
Class: |
B65D 83/04 20060101
B65D083/04; B65D 85/42 20060101 B65D085/42 |
Claims
1) A dispensing device, holding a month's supply of medications or
supplements comprising: paper chart attaching device; a divided
tray forming a plurality of semi-transparent storage containers; at
least one reminding disk having a diameter less then the width of
said divided tray; a locking device; a removable time clock alarm
system; and securing strap.
2) A dispensing device as in claim 1 wherein said disk has a
written reminder inscribed thereon.
3) A dispensing device as in claim 1 wherein said Strap is pliable
material with loops on each end that prevents spillage and renders
the dispensing device child proof.
4) A dispensing device as in claim 1 further comprising a beverage
holder.
5) A dispensing device as in claim 1 further comprising a
detachable paper caddy and a writing instrument holder.
6) A dispensing device as in claim 1 wherein said device further
comprises a rectangular base, said rectangular base having a lip
extending below each side of said rectangular base and enabling
additional devices to be to be securely stacked above or below said
rectangular base.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims benefit to provisional application
60/585,136, filed on Jul. 2, 2004, entitled "Monthly System for
Dispensing Medication/Supplements", which is incorporated by
reference herein in its entirety.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates generally to pill boxes and
more specifically it relates to a monthly system for dispensing
medications or supplements, enhancing the manageability for
dispensing medications/supplements on a time of day basis much
easier and less burdensome in administration by recharging
containers once per month, elimination of confusion through the use
of a timer with clock alarm system, reminding disks, additionally
to facilitating charting doses taken, and in general making the
task of taking single or multiple medications or supplements on a
time of day dosage more manageable thereby giving the user peace of
mind in knowing that suggested or prescribed usages have been
followed.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PRIOR ART
[0003] It can be appreciated that pillboxes have been in use for
years. Typically, pill boxes are comprised of strips of molded
compartments with lids, boxes with movable dividers, disks with
dividers, pouches that close at one end, containers with four
divided compartments, containers that snap into corresponding days
on a wall mounted calendar which must be changed, cubes with
fifteen compartments on one side and fifteen on the opposite side,
octagon vials that snap into a tray in a hinged box, and automated
pill dispensing machines.
[0004] The main problem with conventional pills boxes is that they
are too limited in usage and/or too high in cost for the normal,
low or fixed income user who does not need continuously monitored
care. Another problem with conventional pillboxes are they do not
provide a reminder of time to take pills nor do they provide access
to information readily available about the medications/supplements
or the case of charting progressive dispensing. Another problem
with conventional pill boxes are although some are transportable
they do not allow the user to easily carry single doses with them
or combinations of doses desired by the user.
[0005] While these devices may be suitable for the particular
purpose to which they address, they are not as suitable for
enhancing the manageability for dispensing medications or
supplements on a time of day basis nor do they make it much easier
and less burdensome in administration by recharging containers once
per month, elimination of confusion through the use of reminder
disks, a time with clock alarm system in additional to facilitating
charting dose taken, and in general making the task of taking
single or multiple medications/supplements on a time of day dosage
more manageable thereby giving the user peace of mind in knowing
that suggested or prescribed usages have been followed.
[0006] In these respects, the monthly system for dispensing
medications/supplements according to the present invention
substantially departs from the conventional concepts and designs of
the prior art, and in so doing provides an apparatus primarily
developed for the purpose of enhancing the manageability for
dispensing medications/supplements on a time of day basis much
easier and less burdensome in administration by recharging
containers once per month, elimination of confusion through the use
of a timer with clock alarm system, reminding disks, in addition to
facilitating charting doses taken, and in general making the task
of taking single or multiple medications/supplements on a time of
day dosage more manageable thereby giving the user peace of mind in
knowing that suggested or prescribed usages have been followed.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] In view of the foregoing disadvantages inherent in the known
types of pill boxes now present in the prior art, the present
invention provides a new monthly system for dispensing
medications/supplements construction wherein the same can be
utilized for enhancing the manageability for dispensing
medications/supplements on a time of day basis much easier and less
burdensome in administration by recharging containers once per
month, elimination of confusion through the use of a timer with
clock alarm system and reminding disks, in addition to facilitating
charting doses taken, and in general making the task of taking
single or multiple medications/supplements on a time of day dosage
more manageable thereby giving the user peace of mind in knowing
that suggested or prescribed usages have been followed.
[0008] The general purpose of the present invention, which will be
described subsequently in greater detail, is to provide a new
monthly system for dispensing medications/supplements that has many
of the advantages of the pill boxes mentioned heretofore and many
novel features that result in a new monthly system for dispensing
medications/supplements which is not anticipated, rendered obvious,
suggested, or even implied by any of the prior art pill boxes,
either alone or in any combination thereof.
[0009] To attain this, the present invention generally comprises a
housing unit with a top that has paper or chart attaching devices,
a divided tray that holds a plurality of semitransparent storage
containers, one of which may contain reminding disks a detachable
adjustable securing strap with a detachable handle, a locking
device, a removable timer clock alarm system, a detachable paper
caddy with writing instrument holder and a detachable cup or
beverage holder. The housing unit consists of a rectangle base with
three walls rising up from the two short sides and one long side of
the housing unit base to a height sufficient to exceed the tray of
containers it holds, constructed to facilitate a detachable cup or
beverage container holder, a detachable timer with clock alarm
device, a detachable paper caddy with writing instrument holder. A
lip extends below each side of the rectangle base of the housing
unit enabling additional housing units to be securely stacked above
on the housing unit top or below each housing unit. The top of the
housing unit is a rectangle plane that is attached to the three
walls of the housing unit and is designed to facilitate securing
another housing unit or units on top of it for stationary stacking.
The top of the housing unit has chart or paper attaching devices to
facilitate charting of medications/supplements or notes on various
contents stored within the housing unit. The try consists of a
rectangle base with walls rising up from all sides. The front wall
is somewhat shorter than the other three walls and is designed with
an easily graspable front to enable it to be easily slid into and
out of the front of housing unit. The tray is constructed in such a
way as a divider separates the first row of containers it holds
from the other containers thereby allowing the ease of opening the
first row of eight containers thereby allowing the ease of opening
the first row of eight containers with one hand. The containers are
cylindrical or cubical in shape, semi-transparent, with attached or
hinges lids and are designed to be easily opened and closeable.
Reminding disks are smaller in diameter than the storage
containers, may contain pre-printed messages or may be a write-on
devices that may be added to a storage container to provide a
reminder of events as the user desires. The securing strap is a
flexible device designed to attach to and surround the housing unit
or units when stacked and join together in a manner allowing the
use of a locking device that not only inhibits spillage but enables
the housing unit or units to be made child proof. The detachable
handle is made of pliable material with loops on each end to allow
it to be affixed to the adjustable securing device to aid in
transportation. The timer with clock alarm system is composed of an
alarm function tat is set to a large faced LCD digital clock. The
buttons and switches are large, easily understood for setting the
various functions or alarms and designed specifically to be user
friendly to provide notification of times for pill dispensation.
The paper caddy is designed to be a readily available storage place
for notes on medications/supplements, additional charts, note
paper, and a writing instrument. It consists of a rectangular solid
structure that may be detached from the housing unit. The cup or
beverage holder, that is detachable from the housing unit, provides
a base with adjustable arms that securely holds a beverage
container as desired by user. The device connects through the
openings provided in the ends of the securing strap to secure the
housing unit, aid in ease of transportation, and prevent
spillage.
[0010] There has thus been outlined, rather broadly, the more
important features of the invention in order that the detailed
description thereof may be better understood, and in order that the
present contribution to the art may be better appreciated. There
are additional features of the invention that will be described
hereinafter.
[0011] In this respect, before explaining at least one embodiment
of the invention in detail, it is to be understood that the
invention is not limited in its application to the details of
construction and to the arrangements of the components set forth in
the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The
invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced
and carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that
the phraseology and terminology employed herein are for the purpose
of the description and should not be regarded as limiting.
[0012] A primary object of the present invention is to provide a
monthly system for dispensing medications/supplements that will
overcome the shortcomings of the prior art devices.
[0013] An object of the present invention is to provide a monthly
system for dispensing medications/supplements for enhancing the
manageability for dispensing medications/supplements on a time of
day basis much easier and less burdensome in administration by
recharging containers once per month, elimination of confusion
through the use of a timer with clock alarm system in addition to
facilitating charting doses taken, and in general making the task
of taking single or multiple medications/supplements on a time of
day dosage more manageable thereby giving the user peace of mind in
knowing that suggested or prescribed usages have been followed.
[0014] Another object is to provide a monthly system for dispensing
medications/supplements that gives the user a system of storage,
dispensing, charting, and reminding of time of day dosing for
medications/supplements that ma be childproof, transportable, and
expandable, with ease of administration on a monthly or other
basis.
[0015] Another object is to provide a monthly system for dispensing
medications/supplements that unlike prior art is a stackable
housing unit which may provide stability to additional stacked
units and the top of which may provide a writing surface with
securing devices for notepaper or charts, that contains a tray of
semitransparent containers which slides in and out of the front
opening of the housing unit.
[0016] Another object is to provide a monthly system for dispensing
medications/supplements that unlike prior art, allows the operation
with the use of only one hand and holds a divided tray which may
contain a plurality of semi-transparent containers, that may be
used to store a complete months supply of medications/supplements
that are taken by the user at a particular time of a day, and one
of which may be used to store articles as desired by user.
[0017] Another object is to provide a monthly system for dispensing
medications/supplements that is a semi-transparent container,
either cylindrical or other shape with an easily opened lid, which
stores a time of day dose of medications/supplements or other items
desired by user.
[0018] Another object is to provide a monthly system for dispensing
medications/supplements that has a detachable timer with clock
alarm system with a minimum of two alarms that allow the user to
select sound, vibration, or light notification or combination of
same.
[0019] Another object is to provide a monthly system for dispensing
medications/supplements that has a detachable paper caddy with
writing instrument holder and detachable cup or beverage container
holder.
[0020] Another object is to provide a monthly system for dispensing
medications/supplements that utilizes a detachable securing device
to secure units stacked upon each other and/or to prevent the
spillage of contents stored within, to provide ease of
transportation by a detachable handle and is designed to connect in
a method so as to allow the use of a securing device to child proof
the contents.
[0021] Other objects and advantages of the present invention will
become obvious to the reader and it is intended that these objects
and advantages are within the scope of the present invention.
[0022] To the accomplishment of the above and related objects, this
invention may be embodied in the form illustrated in the
accompanying drawings, attention being called to the fact, however,
that the drawings are illustrative only, and that changes may be
made in the specific construction illustrated.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0023] Various other objects, features and attendant advantages of
the present invention will become fully appreciated as the same
becomes better understood when considered in conjunction with the
accompanying drawings, in which like reference characters designate
the same or similar parts throughout the several views, and
wherein:
[0024] FIG. 1 is top perspective view of the present invention.
[0025] FIG. 2 is an exploded front view of the present
invention.
[0026] FIG. 3 is an exploded rear view of the present
invention.
[0027] FIG. 4 is a cut away view of the present invention.
[0028] FIG. 5 is a top front view of the housing unit.
[0029] FIG. 6 is a bottom rear view of the housing unit.
[0030] FIG. 7 is a front view of the divided tray.
[0031] FIG. 8 is a top view of the divided tray.
[0032] FIG. 9 is a right and left side view of the divided
tray.
[0033] FIG. 10 is exploded view of storage container.
[0034] FIG. 11 is of the reminding disk.
[0035] FIG. 12 is the top and side views of the securing strap.
[0036] FIG. 13 is the top and side views of the detachable
handle.
[0037] FIG. 14 is the top, front, and side views of the timer with
clock alarm.
[0038] FIG. 15 is the top view, right and left side views, front
view, and rear view of the paper caddy with writing instrument
holder.
[0039] FIG. 16 is the top, side and front view of the cup or
beverage holder.
[0040] FIG. 17 is of the locking device.
[0041] FIG. 18 is of the pre-printed and blank labels.
[0042] FIG. 19 is of the blank reminder disks and adhesive
labels.
[0043] FIG. 20 is of the prescriptions chart.
[0044] FIG. 21 is of the time of day chart.
[0045] FIG. 22 is of the vital signs chart.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0046] Turning now descriptively to the drawings, in which similar
reference characters denote similar elements throughout the several
views, the attached figures illustrate a monthly system for
dispensing medications/supplements, which comprises a housing unit
with a top that has paper or chart attaching devices, a divided
tray that holds a plurality of semi-transparent storage containers,
one of which may contain reminding disks, detachable adjustable
securing strap with a detachable handle, a locking device, a
removable timer clock alarm system, a detachable paper caddy with
writing instrument holder and a detachable cup or beverage holder.
The housing unit consists of a rectangle base with three walls
rising up from the two short sides and one long side of the housing
unit base to a height sufficient to exceed the tray of containers
it holds, constructed to facilitate a detachable cup or beverage
container holder, a detachable timer with clock alarm device, a
detachable paper caddy with writing instrument holder. A lip
extends below each side of the rectangle base of the housing unit
enabling additional housing units to be securely stacked above on
the housing unit top or below each housing unit. The top of the
housing unit is a rectangle plane that is attached to the three
walls of the housing unit and is designed to facilitate securing
another housing unit or units on top of it for stationary stacking.
The top of the housing unit has chart or paper attaching devices to
facilitate charting of medications/supplements or notes on various
contents stored within the housing unit. The tray consists of a
rectangle base with walls rising up from all sides. The front wall
is somewhat shorter than the other three walls and is designed with
an easily graspable front to enable it to be easily slid into and
out of the front of housing unit. The tray is constructed in such a
way as a divider separates the first row of containers it holds
from the other containers thereby allowing the case of opening the
first row of eight containers with one hand. The containers are
cylindrical or cubical in shape, semi-transparent, with attached or
hinged lids and are designed to be easily opened and closeable.
Reminding disks are smaller in diameter than the storage
containers, may contain pre-printed messages or may be a write-on
devices that may be added to a storage container to provide a
reminder of events as the user desires. The securing strap is a
flexible device designed to attach to and surround the housing unit
or units when stacked and join together in a manner allowing the
use of a locking device that not only inhibits spillage but enables
the housing unit or units to be made child proof. The detachable
handle is made of pliable material with loops on each end to allow
it to be affixed to the adjustable securing device to aid in
transportation. The timer with clock alarm system is composed of an
alarm function that is set to a large faced LCD digital clock. The
buttons and switches are large, easily understood for setting the
various functions or alarms and designed specifically to be user
friendly to provide notification of times for pill dispensation.
The paper caddy is designed to be a readily available storage place
for notes on medications/supplements, additional charts, note
paper, and a writing instrument. It consists of a rectangular solid
structure that may be detached from the housing u nit. The cup or
beverage holder, that is detachable from the housing unit, provides
a base with adjustable arms that securely holds a beverage
container as desired by user. The locking device may be either key
or keyless. It may be of metal, plastic, or other material. The
device connects through the openings provided in the ends of the
securing strap to secure the housing unit, aid in case of
transportation, and prevent spillage.
[0047] The housing unit consists of a rectangle base with three
walls rising up from the two short sides and one long side of the
housing unit base to a height sufficient to exceed the tray of
containers it holds, constructed to facilitate a detachable cup or
beverage container holder, a detachable timer with clock alarm
device, a detachable paper caddy with writing instrument holder. A
lip extends below each side of the rectangle base of the housing
unit enabling additional housing units to be securely stacked above
on the housing unit top or below each housing unit. The top of the
housing unit is a rectangle plane that is attached to the three
walls of the housing unit and is designed to facilitate securing
another housing unit or units on top of it for stationary stacking.
The top of the housing unit has chart or paper attaching devices to
facilitate charting of medications/supplements or notes on various
contents stored within the housing unit. The housing unit 20 (FIGS.
1,2,3,4,5 and 6) is rectangular in shape, preferably injection
molded plastic, consists of a bottom (24), top (22), and three
walls (26,28 and 30) that have attaching notches 27, 29, 31. The
bottom or base (24) is a rectangle plane with two openings or slots
(FIGS. 4 and 5) (34) to allow the threading of the securing strap
(FIGS. 1,2,3,4 and 12) (100). The slots (34) are parallel to the
back (FIGS. 3 and 6) (26) and front long side (FIGS. 1,2,4 and 5)
(21) and perpendicular to the right (FIGS. 1,2,4 and 5) (30) and
left (FIGS. 3 and 6) (28) short sides of the housing unit (20). A
lip (FIGS. 1,2,3,4,5 and 6) (32) extends downward from each side of
the base. The right (30), left (28) and back (26) walls extend
upward from the respective sides of the base or bottom (24) of the
housing unit (20) and are attached to the underside corresponding
edges of the top (22) of the housing unit. The top (22) has two
attaching nodes (FIGS. 1,2,4,5 and 6) (36) and a paper attaching
device (FIGS. 1,2,4 and 5) (38) on each of the four sides of the
top rectangular plane. The paper attaching devices (38) are entered
at the midpoint of each side edge and extend perpendicular form the
edge inward toward the center of the top. The material from which
the "HOUSING UNIT" (20) is constructed may be of wood, metal, or
other suitable material other than plastic. The shape could be
changed to any configuration that would allow the accommodation of
thirty-two containers. There are many ways that additional "Housing
Units" could be attached to each other in a stacking manner. One
would be to have feet extend from each of the bottom four corners
of the housing unit (20) and fit into receiving openings on each
corner of the top (24). The top (24) could be made as a separate
reversible piece of the housing unit (20). During transportation or
choice of the user it could be turned upside down so the paper
attaching devices would be on the inside o the unit. It is
recognized that there are many different paper attaching devices
that could be used to secure charts, note paper, or directions for
use to the top of the unit. Some of these could be various spring
loaded clips made of metal, plastic or other material.
[0048] The tray consists of a rectangle base with walls rising up
from all sides. The front wall is somewhat shorter than the other
three walls and is designed with an easily graspable front to
enable it to be easily slid into and out of the front of housing
unit. The tray is constructed in such a way as a divider separates
the first row of containers it holds from the other containers
thereby allowing the case of opening the first row of eight
containers with one hand. The divided tray (FIGS. 1,2,3,4,7,8 and
9) (40), also preferably injection molded plastic, has a rectangle
shaped base or bottom (48) with front (42), right (50), left (52),
and back (54) walls rising up on each side and a divider (46)
rising up from the base to a height somewhat less than the
thirty-two storage containers (FIGS. 1,2,4,7,8,9 and 10) (60) held
within. The right (50), left (52), back (54) walls and the divider
(46) are all the same height. The front (42) wall is shorter and
has a tongue (44) centered in it that extends perpendicular out and
away from the exterior of the front (42) wall. The divider (46)
spans the width of the tray (40) and is attached to the right wall
(50) and left wall (52). The divider (46) is constructed
approximately one fourth the distance from the inside front wall
(42) toward the back wall (54). The "DIVIDED TRAY" (40) may also be
made fro wood, metal, fiberglass, or other composite material. It
could contain more dividers than the preferred embodiment (FIG. 8)
(46). The additional dividers could be five in number with three
being vertical or parallel the right (50) and left (52) sides. The
additional two dividers would be horizontal or parallel to the
front (42) and back (54) walls thereby forming a plurality of
compartments for the thirty-two storage containers (60). The
divided tray could also contain no dividers but this would not
allow support for the storage containers to be opened with one
hand.
[0049] The containers are cylindrical or cubical in shape,
semi-transparent, with attached or hinged lids and are designed to
be easily opened and closeable. The storage container (FIGS.
1,2,4,7,8,9 and 10) (60) is a cylindrical shaped device made from
injection molded semi-transparent United States Food and Drug
Administration approved material for the storage of
medications/supplements. The body (FIG. 10) (62) is tubular with a
closed bottom (68) and a hinged (66) easily openable snap lid (64)
with a protruding lip (70). The exterior surface of the lid (72)
permits the attachment of a pre-printed adhesive labels (FIG. 18)
(74) to indicate the corresponding numbers of a thirty-one day
calendar month or blank adhesive write-on labels (FIG. 18) (88).
The "STORAGE CONTAINER" (FIG. 10) (62) could be made cubical in
shape and could be made to interlock with other containers either
horizontally or vertically or both. The material from which they
are made could be fiberglass, metal, and wood, a non food grade
plastic or composite material. The lids to the containers could be
screw on or twist off. The containers could be opaque and may be in
different colors. The containers may be used to store items as
selected by the user.
[0050] Reminding disks are smaller in diameter than the storage
containers, may contain pre-printed messages or may be a write-on
devices that may be added to a storage container to provide a
reminder of events as the user desires. Reminding disks (FIGS. 2
and 11) (80) are thin smooth edged (86) disk shaped devices,
preferably of poster board material, having both top (82) and
bottom (84) that are a smaller diameter than the storage containers
(60) and have either pre-printed (88) or blank write-on adhesive
labels (90) that may be marked in Braille and attached. The
"REMINDING DISKS" (FIG. 11) (80) may be made from plastic, wood,
metal, fiberglass, or other composite material. The shape could
vary from icons of animals, objects or common representations of
anything chosen to trigger an appropriate response from the user on
a given date. The icons could also be adhesive labels that attach
to the disks. The edges of the disks could be grooved, raised or
something other than smooth.
[0051] The securing strap is a flexible device designed to attach
to and surround the housing unit or units when stacked and join
together in a manner allowing the use of a locking device that not
only inhibits spillage but enables the housing unit or units to be
made child proof. The securing strap (FIGS. 1,2,3 and 12) (100),
preferably of extrusion molded plastic, having two ends (102) and
(104) is a thin elongated device having a top surface (106), a
bottom surface (108) with openings or holes inset on each and (110)
(112). The "SECURING STRAP" (FIG. 12) (100) could be made of nylon,
cotton, metal, polypropylene, polyester, or composite material. It
may also be elastic. Each end (102, 104) could have a plastic or
metal tip. The holes or openings (110, 112) could have grommets
attached for strength.
[0052] The detachable handle is made of pliable material with loops
on each end to allow it to be affixed to the adjustable securing
device to aid in transportation. The detachable handle (FIGS. 1,2,3
and 13) (120), preferably extrusion molded plastic, is a flat
elongated device having a top side (122) a bottom side (124) with a
slot or opening (126) (128) inset parallel to each end (130) (132).
The "DETACHABLE HANDLE" (120) could be made out of plastic tubing,
wood, metal, fiberglass, polypropylene, nylon, cotton, or a
composite material. The shape could also vary the detachable handle
could be cylindrical or round, ribbed, or grooved for gripping.
[0053] The timer with clock alarm system is composed of an alarm
function that is set to a large faced LCD digital clock. The
buttons and switches are large, easily understood for setting the
various functions or alarms and designed specifically to be user
friendly to provide notification of times for pill dispensation.
The time clock alarm system (FIGS. 1,2 and 14) (140) is a
rectangular shaped, preferably injection molded two part plastic
cased device with a thickness sufficient to house the circuitry,
speaker and power supply (not shown). The back (159) has an
attachment device (142) to connect it to the housing unit. The top
of the timer clock alarm case (151) has a light bulb (152) exposed
to provide a flashing light alarm, an hour setting switch (148), a
minute setting switch (149), and a clock set/on switch (146). The
front of the clock alarm system (141) has the LCD clock face (144),
alarm set/on switch (154), sound volume high/low switch (150),
seven position slide alarm selection switch (155), and light
notification on/off switch (156), sound notification on/off switch
(157), and vibration notification on/off switch (158). The dividing
line (143) bisects the top (151), right and (145), left end (147),
and bottom (153). The "TIMER CLOCK ALARM SYSTEM" (140) may be of
any shape, could have more than two divisible parts, and be made
from wood, metal, fiberglass, polypropylene, or other composite
material. The attachment device (142) on the back (159) may be a
snap, hook, hook and eye, or other easily attachment device to
secure the time clock alarm system (140) to the housing unit (FIGS.
1,2,3,5, and 6) (20). The configuration of the switches on the top
of the timer clock alarm case (151) may be changed to the sides
(145 and 147) of the case or to the front (141). The clock face
(144) could be a standard dial face with hands. The number of sound
alarms may be more or less than seven. The configuration of the
switches and the type of switches used may be changed to smaller or
larger size. Some switches may even be eliminated thereby changing
the number of functions.
[0054] The paper caddy is designed to be a readily available
storage place for notes on medications/supplements, additional
charts, note paper, and a writing instrument. It consists of a
rectangular solid structure that may be detached from the housing
unit. The paper caddy (FIGS. 1,2,3 and 15) (160) with writing
instrument holder (162), preferably extrusion molded plastic, is a
rectangular device with a long front wall (166), a long back wall
(168) that has an attaching notch (164) to attach to the housing
unit (20), a dividing partition (170), and two short walls (172)
(174). The device is open on both the top and bottom of the
rectangle. A dividing partition (170) between the front and back
walls of the device separates the paper holding compartment (176)
from the writing instrument holder (162). The "PAPER CADDY" (FIG.
15) (160) could be molded by injection or other process and be
constructed from metal, wood, fiberglass, composite or other
material. The attaching notch (164) could be a hook that attaches
to the housing unit (20), a hook and eye attaching method, snaps,
or other means of securing the paper caddy to the housing unit. The
bottom of the paper caddy (160) may be closed or have a bottom
thereby limiting the size of paper that could be held within it.
The paper caddy itself may be molded as a part of the housing
unit.
[0055] The cup or beverage holder, that is detachable from the
housing unit, provides a base with adjustable arms that securely
holds a beverage container as desired by user. The cup or beverage
container holder (FIGS. 1,2,3 and 16) (180), preferably injection
molded plastic, is a device that has an elongated rectangular spine
or back support (182). Attached to the bottom or lower end of the
back support (182) is a circular base or bottom support (186) that
extends out and away from the bottom front of the spine or back
support (190) and has two flexible beverage container surrounding
circular holding arms (188) attached to the top of the sides of the
spine or back support that also extend out and away from the spine
or back support. The back of the spine or back support (194) has an
attaching notch (184). The "CUP OR BEVERAGE CONTAINER HOLDER" (FIG.
16) (180) could be made from metal, wood, fiberglass,
polypropylene, a composite, or combination of all these materials.
The bottom support (186) could be hinged to fold upward toward the
back or spine support (182) when not in use. The flexible beverage
container surrounding circular holding arms (188) could be hinged
to fold down when not in use. The attaching notch (184) could be
changed to a hook that would attach to the housing unit (FIGS.
1,2,3,4,5 and 6) (20) or other attaching methods such as hook and
dye, or snaps could be used.
[0056] The locking device may be either key or keyless. It may be
of metal, plastic, or other material. The device connects through
the openings provided in the ends of the securing strap to secure
the housing unit, aid in easy of transportation, and prevent
spillage. The locking device (FIGS. 1,2,3 and 17) (200) is a
standard metal padlock. The "LOCKING DEVICE" (FIG. 17) (200) could
be made of plastic or composite material. It could be a combination
lock.
[0057] The housing unit (FIGS. 1,2,3,4,5 and 6) (20), rectangular
in shape, preferably injection molded plastic, serves as the base
of operations for the invention. The housing units consists of a
top (FIGS. 1,2,4 and 5) (22) that has paper attaching devices
(FIGS. 1,2,4 and 5) (38) for holding charts, notes on medications,
or other paper, also attaching notes (FIGS. 1,2,4,5 and 6) (36)
that are part of and directly connected to the housing unit to
facilitate the attachment of additional housing units if desired
upon the top of the base housing unit for expandability, a bottom
(FIGS. 1,2,3,5 and 6) (24) that has two slots or openings (34)
parallel to the front edge of the bottom (23) to allow the
attachment of the securing strap (FIGS. 1,2,3,4 and 12) (100), a
right wall (FIGS. 1,2,4 and 5) (30) with an exterior attaching
notch (31) to connect to the attaching notch (142) that is located
on the exterior back (159) of the timer clock alarm system (FIGS.
1,2 and 14) (140), a left wall (FIGS. 1,2,3,5 and 6) (28) with an
exterior attaching notch (29) to connect to the attaching notch
(184) on the exterior back of the spine or support (194) of the cup
or beverage holder (FIGS. 1,2,3 and 16) (180), and a back wall
(FIGS. 3,4,5 and 6) (26) with an exterior attaching notch (27) to
connect to the attaching notch (164) on the exterior back wall
(168) of the paper caddy with writing instrument holder (FIGS.
1,2,3 and 15) that are all part of the housing unit and directly
connected. The housing unit (20) is directly connected to the
divided tray (FIGS. 1,2,3,4,7,8 and 9) (40) that slides in and out
of the front opening of the housing unit (FIGS. 1,2,4 and 5) (26),
the securing strap (FIGS. 1,2 and 14) (100) connected to the
housing unit (20) through the slots (FIGS. 3,5 and 6) (34) in the
bottom (FIGS. 1,2,3,5 and 6) (24), the timer clock alarm system
(FIGS. 1,2 and 14) (140) by an attaching notch on the timer alarm
system (FIG. 14) (142) that attaches to an attaching notch on the
housing unit (FIGS. 2 and 5) (31), the paper caddy (FIGS. 1,2,3 and
15) (160) by an attaching notch on the paper caddy (FIGS. 2 and 15)
(164) that attaches to an attaching notch on the housing unit
(FIGS. 3 and 6) (27), and the cup or beverage holder (FIGS. 1,2,3
and 16) (180) by an attaching notch on the cup or beverage holder
(FIGS. 1,2,3 and 16) (184) that attaches to the attaching notch on
the housing unit (FIGS. 3 and 6) (29). Indirectly the housing unit
is connected also to the storage containers (FIGS. 1,2,4,7,8,9 and
10) (60) through the divided tray (40) that holds them, the
reminding disks (FIGS. 2 and 11) (80) that are held by the storage
containers (60), the detachable handle (FIGS. 1,2,3 and 13) (120)
that connects to the securing strap (100) through the openings at
each end of the detachable handle (FIGS. 1,2,3 and 13) (126 and
128) to aid in transportation, and the locking device (FIGS. 1,2,3
and 17) (200) that connects through the openings (FIG. 13) (110 and
112) of the securing strap (100) when the user chooses to child
proof or prevent spillage during transportation of the housing
unit. The top of the housing unit (FIGS. 1,2,3,4 and 5) (22)
provides the writing space for charting medications/supplements
taken and the paper attaching devices (FIGS. 1,2,4 and 5) (38) hold
the paper in place for easier writing or to prevent it from
slipping. With the attaching notes (FIGS. 1,2,3,4 and 5) (36) on
the top (FIGS. 1,2,3,4 and 5) (22) additional housing units may be
attached securely on the top (22) of the housing unit (20). This is
an important feature of the invention in that each housing unit
(20), divided tray (40), and storage containers (60) with reminding
disks (80) are intended to be used for a single time of day dosing.
The attaching lip (FIGS. 1,2,3,4,5 and 6) (32) around the edges of
the bottom (FIGS. 3,5 and 6) (24) of the housing unit (20) connects
securely into the attaching notes (22) of another housing unit.
This provides the user with a significant feature to allow
expandability in order to better manage multiple times per day
dosing of medications/supplements. The divided tray (FIGS.
1,2,3,4,7,8 and 9) (40) is directly connected to the housing unit
(20) be being housed by it and sliding in and out of the front
opening of the housing unit (26) to provide easy access to the
storage containers (60) and the stored contents. The tongue or pull
(FIGS. 1,2,4,7,8 and 9) (44) which protrudes outwardly
perpendicular to the exterior front wall of the divided tray (40)
is directly connected and part of the divided tray and intended to
easy the removal or insertion of the divided tray (40) within the
housing unit (20). The storage containers (FIGS. 1,2,4,7,8,9 and
10) (60) that are directly connected to but not part of the divided
tray and indirectly connected to the housing unit (20) are held
within the divided tray front (42), back (54), left (52), and right
(50) interior walls that are directly connected and a part of the
divided tray. The divider (46) that is directly connect to and part
of the divided tray separates the first row of storage containers
(60) from the remaining containers to enable the opening of the
plurality of storage container's (FIG. 10) easily openable hinged
(66) lids (64) by the use of the lip (70) with one hand. The
reminding disks (FIG. 11) (80) and the pre-printed (88) or write on
(90) adhesive backed labels that may be attached to the reminding
disks (80) are directly connected to the storage container (60) by
being contained in one or more of the storage containers as desired
or needed and indirectly connected to the divided tray (40) which
holds the storage containers (60). The pre-printed adhesive backed
labels (FIG. 10) (74) are directly connected to the storage
containers (60) when the user chooses to affix them to the outer
surface of the lid (72) and indirectly connected to the divided
tray (40). The securing strap (FIGS. 1,2,3,4 and 12) (100) made of
molded plastic, is directly connected to the housing unit through
the slots in the bottom of the housing unit. It is designed to e
wrapped around the housing unit directly connecting it to the
divided tray and preventing it from sliding out of the front
opening of the housing unit when a securing or locking mechanism
(FIGS. 1 and 17) (200) is directly attached through the holes or
openings near each end of the securing strap (FIGS. 1,2,3,4 and 12)
(110 and 112). The detachable handle (FIGS. 1,2 and 13) (122) is
directly connected to the securing strap by having the securing
strap passed through the slots near each end of the handle (FIG.
13) (126 and 128) and is indirectly connected to the housing unit
by the securing strap passing through the slots in the bottom of
the housing unit and around it to be secured by the locking device
or padlock that connects the two ends of the securing strap by
passing through the openings or holds near each end of the securing
strap. The detachable handle is indirectly connected to both the
divided tray and the locking device. The timer clock alarm is
directly connected to the housing unit by attaching directly to it
in such a way that it may be removed and carried with the user as
they may choose. The paper caddy with writing instrument holder is
directly connected to the housing unit. The cup or beverage holder
is directly connected to the housing unit. The locking device is
directly connected to the securing strap when passed through the
holes or openings located near each end of the securing strap. The
locking device is indirectly connected to the housing unit through
the securing strap, the detachable handle, and the divided tray.
The housing unit could have a detachable top that would be affixed
to the unit in some manner as to allow the paper attaching devices
and notes to be attached to the bottom side of the top of the
housing unit. Additional housing units could be attached to the
base unit through the use of a different type of latching device.
An alternative device could be used to connect eh securing strap to
an additional securing strap so both would wrap around the housing
unit. One securing strap would wrap vertically and the other would
wrap horizontally. The divided tray could have an additional two
horizontal dividers and/or three vertical dividers that would form
a separate compartment for each storage container or separate only
the rows or columns. The storage containers could be other shapes
than cylindrical and could be made to attach to each other either
vertically or horizontally or both. The detachable handle could be
made with hooks that slipped under the securing strap or attached
to it in a manner different than having the securing strap threaded
through it. The locking device could be one that is commonly
referred to as a combination lock rather than the traditional
padlock that is recommended.
[0058] The monthly system for dispensing medications/supplements
operates by the use of a housing unit with attachments. Each
housing unit holds a divided tray that in turn holds a plurality of
semi-transparent USDA approved food grade storage containers for
one time per day dosing for a complete month. A feature of the
housing unit is the expandability that allows multiple times of day
dosing not found in most all prior art. This is accomplished by the
lip located around the bottom of the housing unit being inserted
into the attaching nodes on the top of an additional housing unit.
As each housing unit is added an additional time of day doses for a
complete month are made available by the connecting of the units.
It is rare for a patient to need more than six separate time of day
doses but the current invention permits the flexibility for
individual time of day dosing from once per day to as many as the
user may need or want. Charting the history of doses taken daily is
of great assistance in the evaluation of ongoing use of
medications/supplements. The current invention promotes this
valuable tool by providing a readily available writing surface with
paper attachment devices on the top of the housing unit. The
housing unit also provides an attachment notch for a paper caddy
with writing instrument holder that may be utilized to hold various
charts them for better organization. These labels may correspond to
the numerals on a calendar or be written on to designate the
contents wish to be stored. The reminding disks that may be stored
in one of the storage containers may be thin flat disk or other
shaped devices that will allow the user to attach pre-printed or
unprinted plain write on adhesive backed labels. As the storage
containers are recharged for a month's supply of
medications/supplements some of the prescriptions will be exhausted
and need refilling. The user may place disks in advance of the need
for a refill to be ordered to remind them to order the refill or
use the disks to remind them where they run out of a certain
medication so when the new order of a medication is refilled, they
will not be confused or forget to add them to storage containers
that are missing that particular medication. Other uses for the
reminder disks could include reminding the user of doctor
appointments, birthdays, events, and etc. that may occur during a
month that the user wishes to be reminded of by placing a reminder
disk in the storage container which corresponds to the given date
on a calendar. The securing strap is attached to the housing unit
by threading it through the two slots in the bottom of the housing
unit. The operation of the securing strap is to aid the
transportation of the unit, to prevent possible spillage of the
contents, and to secure the contents by wrapping around the housing
unit as a locking device may be attached through the openings or
holds in the securing strap at or near each end. The detachable
handle attaches to the securing strap by threading the securing
strap through the openings or slots at the end of the detachable
handle.
[0059] This provides the user with an aid in transportation if
desired. When the user grasps the handle, it adjusts to the size of
their hand without loosening the securing strap and making the unit
or units much easier to transport. The timer clock alarm is affixed
to the housing unit by an attaching notch so it may be removed if
the user desires to carry it with them on their person. It's
primary purpose is to remind the user through the use of an alarm
that may be vibration, light or sound that it sis time for them to
take their medications supplements as directed. The use may easily
set the functions of the timer clock alarm through the use of
oversized switches and setting buttons. The timer clock alarm
utilizes a battery as a power source or may use electricity
converted through the use of a proper voltage converter. The alarms
may be adjusted in loudness or turned off completely. The timer
clock alarm may also be used as a traveling alarm clock or as a
reminder of various events during a day. The paper caddy with
writing instrument holder affixes to the outside of the housing
unit to allow it to be moved to a higher unit or taken off the
housing unit if desired by the user. The function of the paper
caddy is to conveniently hold needed charting supplies or
medication/supplement instructions or information and to make
readily available a place to sore a writing instrument. The cup or
beverage container holder affixes to the housing unit by an
attaching notch to provide the user with a convenience place to
store their liquid of choice for the use in the task of taking
store medications. The base of the holder provides a way to keep
moisture rings from forming on furniture where the housing unit may
sit. The adjustable arms of the holder keep the container in place.
The locking device is a common padlock that is used to secure the
ends of the adjustable securing strap or the tongue of the divided
tray to the housing unit to prevent tampering, possible accidental
spillage of the contents of the housing unit, and to child proof
the unit or units.
[0060] As to a further discussion of the manner of usage and
operation of the present invention, the same should be apparent
from the above description. Accordingly, no further discussion
relating to the manner of usage and operation will be provided.
[0061] With respect to the above description then, it is to be
realized that the optimum dimensional relationships for the parts
of the invention, to include variations in size, materials, shape,
form, function and manner of operation, assembly and use, are
deemed readily apparent and obvious to one skilled in the art, and
all equivalent relationships to those illustrated in the drawings
and described in the specification are intended to be encompassed
by the present invention.
[0062] Therefore, the foregoing is considered as illustrative only
of the principles of the invention. Further, since numerous
modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in
the art, it is not desired to limit the invention to the exact
construction and operation shown and described, and accordingly,
all suitable modifications and equivalents may be resorted to,
falling within scope of the invention.
* * * * *