U.S. patent application number 13/746521 was filed with the patent office on 2013-05-30 for system for tracking reusable items.
This patent application is currently assigned to TOWEL TRACKER, LLC. The applicant listed for this patent is TOWEL TRACKER, LLC. Invention is credited to Chad A. Davis, Jeffrey A. Davis, Steven J. Lilly, Steven P. Molewyk, Jack E. Spaans, Kirk S. Thomas.
Application Number | 20130134843 13/746521 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 48466192 |
Filed Date | 2013-05-30 |
United States Patent
Application |
20130134843 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Molewyk; Steven P. ; et
al. |
May 30, 2013 |
SYSTEM FOR TRACKING REUSABLE ITEMS
Abstract
A system for dispensing, receiving, and tracking towels or other
items includes a cabinet structure having first and second interior
spaces. An access door provides access to the first interior space,
and a return door permits items to be returned to the second
interior space. An RFID system conducts read operations to
determine how many items having RFID tags are disposed in the first
and second interior spaces. The system determines what items have
been removed from the first interior space, and associates removed
items with specific users. The RFID system conducts read operations
as items are returned to the second interior space and credits the
user.
Inventors: |
Molewyk; Steven P.; (Marne,
MI) ; Spaans; Jack E.; (Sparta, MI) ; Lilly;
Steven J.; (Wyoming, MI) ; Davis; Chad A.;
(Grand Rapids, MI) ; Thomas; Kirk S.; (Belding,
MI) ; Davis; Jeffrey A.; (Wayland, MI) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
TOWEL TRACKER, LLC; |
Grand Rapids |
MI |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
TOWEL TRACKER, LLC
Grand Rapids
MI
|
Family ID: |
48466192 |
Appl. No.: |
13/746521 |
Filed: |
January 22, 2013 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
12814631 |
Jun 14, 2010 |
8362878 |
|
|
13746521 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
312/198 |
Current CPC
Class: |
D06F 93/00 20130101;
A47F 10/00 20130101; A47F 2010/025 20130101; H04Q 2213/095
20130101; A47F 10/02 20130101; A47B 81/00 20130101; A47F 2010/005
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
312/198 |
International
Class: |
A47B 81/00 20060101
A47B081/00 |
Claims
1. A dispensing and receiving system for dispensing items to be
used for receiving used items, the system comprising: a wall
structure having a first portion defining a first interior space
configured to have items to be used disposed therein, and a second
portion defining a second interior space configured to have used
items disposed therein, the wall structure having an enlarged first
opening providing access to the first interior space, and an
enlarged second opening providing access to the second interior
space; the wall structure including a first main door that is
movable between an open position providing access to the first
interior space through the enlarged first opening, and a closed
position wherein the first main door closes off the enlarged first
opening, the first portion of the wall structure having a first
access opening that provides access to the first interior space to
thereby permit a user to reach through the first access opening
when the first main door is in the closed position, and a closed
position that prevents access to items to be used in the first
interior space; an access door movably mounted to the first portion
of the wall structure for movement between an open position
permitting a user to reach through the first access opening when
the first main door is in the closed position, and a closed
position that prevents access to items to be used in the first
interior space; the wall structure including a second main door
movable between an open position providing access to the second
interior space through the enlarged second opening, and a closed
position wherein the second main door closes off the enlarged
second opening, the second portion of the wall structure having a
second access opening to the second interior space; a return door
movably mounted to the second portion of the wall structure for
movement between an open position that permits one or more used
items to pass through the second access opening into the second
interior space, and a closed position preventing access to the
second interior space; a powered lock selectively preventing
movement of the access door to the open positions; a plurality of
items to be dispensed and returned, the items including a data
storage device; a communication system configured to receive data
from the data storage devices when the items are disposed in the
first interior space and when the items are disposed in the second
interior space; wherein the communication system is configured to
perform read operations whereby the communication system receives
data from the data storage devices such that a number of items
disposed in the first and second interior spaces can be determined;
and a control system operably interconnected to the powered lock
and the communication system, wherein the control system is
configured to actuate the control system and generate a first data
set corresponding to a number of items in the first interior space
upon opening and/or closing of the first main door, and wherein the
control system is configured to actuate the communication system
and generate a second data set corresponding to a number of items
in the first interior space, such that a number of items removed
from the first interior space can be determined by taking a
difference between the first and second data sets.
2. The dispensing and receiving system of claim 1, wherein: the
data storage devices comprise RFID tags, and the communication
system comprises an RFID reader.
3. The dispensing and receiving system of claim 2, wherein: The
RFID reader comprises first and second antennas configured to
generate and receive electromagnetic energy in the first and second
interior spaces, respectively.
4. The dispensing and receiving system of claim 3, wherein: during
read operations electromagnetic energy from the first RFID antenna
does not enter the second interior space, and the electromagnetic
energy from the second RFID antenna does not enter the first
interior space.
5. The dispensing and receiving system of claim 4, wherein: the
controller is configured to actuate the RFID system to perform a
read operation of the first interior space only if the access door
is in a closed position.
6. The dispensing and receiving system of claim 5, wherein: the
controller is configured to control the powered lock such that the
access door cannot be opened when the RFID system is performing a
read operation of the first interior space.
7. The dispensing and receiving system of claim 6, including: a
sensor configured to generate a signal from which it can be
determined if the access door is in the open or closed
positions.
8. The dispensing and receiving system of claim 7, wherein: the
controller is configured to cause the RFID system to perform a read
operation and generate data concerning a number of items in the
second interior space if the return door has been opened and/or
closed.
9. The dispensing and receiving system of claim 8, wherein: the
powered lock comprises a first powered lock, and including: a
second powered lock selectively retaining the return door in the
closed position, and wherein: the controller is configured to
prevent opening of the return door during a read operation of the
second interior space.
10. The dispensing and receiving system of claim 1, wherein: the
control system is configured to cause the communication system to
perform a read operation and generate initial data concerning a
number of items disposed in the second interior space if the second
main door is moved from the closed position to the open position
and/or the second main door is moved from the open position to the
closed position; and the controller is configured to cause the
communication system to perform a read operation and generate
initial data concerning a number of items disposed in the first
interior space if the first main door is moved from the closed
position to the open position and/or the second main door is moved
from the open position to the closed position.
11. The dispensing and receiving system of claim 1, wherein: the
wall structure comprises a cabinet configured to be supported on a
floor surface; and including: a mobile storage rack having a
plurality of vertically spaced-apart horizontal support surfaces,
and a plurality of rollers adapted to movably support the storage
rack on a floor surface; and wherein the enlarged first opening is
configured to permit the storage rack to be rolled into the first
interior space and out of the first interior space when the cabinet
is positioned on a floor surface in an upright position.
12. The dispensing and receiving system of claim 1, wherein: the
wall structure comprises a first cabinet forming the first interior
space, and a second cabinet forming the second interior space, and
wherein the first and second cabinets are spaced-apart to form a
gap therebetween.
13. The dispensing and receiving system of claim 1, including: a
user verification device that collects data that can be used to
identify a user; and wherein: the control system selectively
controls the powered lock to unlock the access door based, at least
in part, on data from the user identification device.
14. The dispensing and receiving system of claim 13, wherein: the
dispensing and receiving system is configured to be used in a
health club, and the computer is configured to process information
concerning specified individuals who are authorized to use at least
some of a health club's facilities based on predefined criteria;
and the computer is programmed to associate any unreturned items
with specified individuals based on predetermined criteria.
15. The dispensing and receiving system of claim 14, wherein: the
user verification device comprises a card reader mounted adjacent
the first main door, and wherein the card reader is configured to
read an optical barcode on a card.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 12/814,631, filed Jun. 14, 2010, and entitled
"TOWEL TRACKING SYSTEM," the entire disclosure of which is
incorporated herein by reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Athletic facilities at universities, colleges, and other
athletic facilities, as well as health clubs, gyms, spas, and other
such businesses or entities may provide clean towels for users of
the facilities. Similarly, hotels, resorts, and the like may also
provide clean towels to users. The users are typically expected to
return the used towels prior to leaving the facility, and the
towels are laundered and made available for users. Also, hospitals
or other such medical facilities may provide clean garments for
various personnel that are returned to the facility for laundering
and redistribution to the personnel. Uniforms or other garments may
be distributed to users in a variety of settings and returned for
laundering. Still further, a variety of items from a storage area
may be provided to users for a period of time. For example, in a
machine shop, production facility, or construction site, a number
of tools may be stored at a "tool crib" or other facility, and
individual workers can remove the tools for use for a period of
time. In such cases, a system for tracking the tools or other
articles may be utilized. Similarly, libraries typically include a
system to check out books or other articles to users and generate
notices and/or charges if a book has not been returned within a
specified period of time.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0003] One aspect of the present invention is a dispensing and
receiving system for dispensing clean towels or other items. The
system includes a cabinet structure having a first portion defining
a first interior space configured to have clean towels or other
items to be dispensed therein, and a second portion defining a
second interior space configured to have used towels or other items
disposed therein upon return by a user. The first and/or second
interior spaces may be heated and/or cooled if required for a
particular application. The cabinet structure also has an enlarged
first opening providing access to the first interior space and an
enlarged second opening providing access to the second interior
space.
[0004] A first main door is movably mounted to the cabinet
structure for movement between an open position providing access to
the first interior space through the enlarged first opening, and a
closed position wherein the first main door closes off the enlarged
first opening. The first main door has a first access opening to
provide access therethrough, and an access door is movably mounted
to the first main door for movement between an open position
permitting a user to reach through the first access opening when
the first main door is in the closed position, and a closed
position that prevents access to clean towels or other items in the
first interior space.
[0005] A second main door is movably mounted to the cabinet
structure for movement between an open position providing access to
the second interior space through the enlarged second opening, and
a closed position wherein the second main door closes off the
enlarged second opening. The second main door has a second access
opening therethrough. A return door is movably mounted to the
second main door for movement between an open position that permits
towels to pass through the second access opening into the second
interior space, and a closed position. A first powered lock
selectively prevents movement of the access door to the open
position. An optional second powered lock may be utilized to
selectively retain the return door in the closed position.
[0006] The dispensing and receiving system further includes an RFID
system including at least a first RFID antenna configured to
provide electromagnetic waves in the first interior space, and at
least a second RFID antenna configured to provide electromagnetic
waves in the second interior space. The RFID system is configured
to perform read operations during which at least one of the first
and second antennas generate electromagnetic energy and receive
return energy from RFID tags disposed in the first and second
interior spaces, whereby a number of towels disposed in the first
and second interior spaces can be determined. During a read
operation, electromagnetic energy from the first RFID antenna does
not enter the second interior space, and electromagnetic energy
from the second RFID antenna does not enter the first interior
space, such that the RFID system can obtain an accurate read of the
items in the first interior space and in the second interior space.
The first and second interior spaces may be isolated from one
another by a sheet of electrically conductive material or other
suitable barrier, or the first and second interior spaces may
comprise two separate free-standing metal cabinets that can be
repositioned relative to one another. Alternately, the cabinet
structure may comprise a polymer or fiber-reinforced composite
material that preferably includes a conductive layer or
coating.
[0007] The dispensing and receiving system also includes a user
verification device that collects data that can be used to identify
a user. The user verification device may comprise an optical card
reader that reads a barcode on a membership card, or it may
comprise a card reader that reads an electromagnetic strip on a
membership card, or other suitable verification device such as a
keypad or the like that provides for input of a password. The
dispensing and receiving system also includes a control system that
is operably interconnected to the first and second powered locks,
and to the first and second RFID antennas. The control system is
configured to actuate the RFID system and generate a first data set
corresponding to a number of towels in the first interior space.
This read operation is performed upon opening and/or closing of the
first main door, which typically occurs when the first interior
space is restocked with clean towels. In this way, the control
system is able to generate an inventory of the towels in the first
interior space. As discussed in more detail below, the control
system generates additional read operations of the first interior
space upon opening and/or closing of the access door when a user
removes towels and associates the towels removed from the first
interior space with the particular user identified by the user
verification device. The control system is also configured to
selectively control the first powered lock to unlock the access
door based, at least in part, on data from the user identification
device. In this way, the control system prevents unauthorized users
from opening the access door to take towels from the first interior
space. The control system may also be configured to cause the RFID
system to perform a read operation of the towels in the second
interior space upon opening and/or closing of the second main door
as occurs when the second main door is opened to remove used
towels. The control system causes the RFID system to conduct a read
operation of the second interior space upon opening and closing of
the return door to determine if towels previously removed from the
first interior space have been returned to the second interior
space. The control system may be configured to generate a list of
towels that have been taken out by each individual user, and towels
may be removed from the list if the control system determines, via
the RFID system, that the towels have been returned to the second
interior space. The control system may be configured to prevent
opening of the access door and/or the return door during a read
operation to ensure that an accurate read operation is performed.
The system may include a mobile rack or shelf unit that can be
rolled into and out of the first interior space through the
enlarged first opening when the first main door is in an open
position such that the first interior space can be readily
restocked with clean towels. The system may also include a mobile
bin or the like that can be disposed in the second interior space
to receive used towels.
[0008] These and other features, objects, and advantages of the
present invention will become apparent upon reading the following
description thereof together with reference to the accompanying
drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0009] FIG. 1 is a partially fragmentary isometric view of a system
for dispensing and receiving items according to one aspect of the
present invention;
[0010] FIG. 2 is a partially fragmentary isometric view of the
system of FIG. 1, wherein the first and second main doors are shown
in an open position;
[0011] FIG. 3 is a front elevational view of the system of FIG. 1,
with the first and second main access doors in open positions;
[0012] FIG. 4 is a partially fragmentary isometric view of a
portion of the second main door and the return door and chute;
[0013] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of a system for dispensing and
receiving items according to one aspect of the present invention;
and
[0014] FIG. 6 is an exploded isometric view of a towel and RFID tag
according to one aspect of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0015] For purposes of description herein, the terms "upper,"
"lower," "right," "left," "rear," "front," "vertical,"
"horizontal," and derivatives thereof shall relate to the invention
as oriented in FIG. 1. However, it is to be understood that the
invention may assume various alternative orientations and step
sequences, except where expressly specified to the contrary. It is
also to be understood that the specific devices and processes
illustrated in the attached drawings and described in the following
specification are simply exemplary embodiments of the inventive
concepts defined in the appended claims. Hence, specific dimensions
and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments
disclosed herein are not to be considered as limiting, unless the
claims expressly state otherwise.
[0016] With reference to FIG. 1, an article dispensing and tracking
system 1 includes a wall structure such as cabinet structure 2
having a first cabinet or portion 3 and a second cabinet or portion
4. In the illustrated example, the cabinet structure 2 comprises
two discreet cabinet structures that are not structurally
interconnected. However, the cabinet structure 2 could comprise a
single cabinet having first and second portions, or it could
comprise partition walls, architectural walls, or other suitable
structure. According to one aspect of the present invention, first
cabinet 3 is configured to dispense articles, such as clean towels,
and cabinet 4 is configured to receive used towels that are
returned.
[0017] With further reference to FIG. 2, the first cabinet 3
defines a first interior space 10, and the second cabinet 4 defines
a second interior space 11. As discussed in more detail below,
clean towels 12 may be positioned on a mobile rack or shelf unit 13
that can be moved into and out of first interior space 10 through
an enlarged first opening 15 of first cabinet 3. Similarly, a
mobile bin 16 can be moved into and out of second interior space 11
through an enlarged second opening 17 in second cabinet 4 to
thereby remove used towels 18 from second cabinet 4. A first main
door 20 is movably mounted to the first cabinet 3 for movement
between an open position (FIG. 2) to provide access to the first
interior space 10 through the enlarged first opening 15, and a
closed position (FIG. 1) wherein the first main door 20 closes off
the enlarged first opening 15. The first main door 20 has a first
access opening 21 that provides access to the clean towels 12 or
other articles disposed in the first interior space 10 when the
first main door 20 is in the closed position (FIG. 1). An access
door 22 is movably mounted to the first main door 20 for movement
between an open position (FIG. 1) permitting a user to reach
through the first access opening 21 when the first main door 20 is
in the closed position, and a closed position (22A) that prevents
access to the clean towels 12 or other items in the first interior
space 10. A second main door 30 is movably mounted to the second
cabinet 4 of the cabinet structure 2 for movement between an open
position (FIG. 2) providing access to the second interior space 11
through the enlarged second opening 17, and a closed position (FIG.
1) wherein the second main door 30 closes off the enlarged second
opening 17. The second main door 30 has a second access opening 31
(see also FIG. 4) through the second main door 30. A return door 32
is movably mounted to the second main door 30 by a hinge 33 (FIG.
4) or other suitable arrangement for movement between an open
position (32A in FIG. 4) that permits used towels to pass through
the second access opening 31 into the second interior space 11, and
a closed position (FIG. 1) preventing access to the second interior
space 11. A first powered lock 23 selectively prevents movement of
the access door 22 to the open position (FIG. 1). An optional
second powered lock 34 (FIG. 4) may be utilized to selectively
retain the return door 32 in the closed position.
[0018] The dispensing and receiving system 1 also includes an RFID
system 40 including one or more RFID antennas 41, 42 that are
configured to provide electromagnetic waves in the first interior
space 10, and one or more RFID antennas 43, 44 that are configured
to provide electromagnetic waves in the second interior space 11.
According to another aspect of the present invention, three RFID
antennas may be disposed in one of the interior spaces 10 and 11,
and one RFID antenna may be disposed in the other of the interior
spaces 10 and 11. It will be understood that the specific
configuration of the RFID antennas may be selected according to the
requirements of a particular application. The RFID system 40 is
configured to perform read operations during which at least one of
the RFID antennas 41-44 generate electromagnetic energy and receive
return energy from RFID tags 45 (see also FIG. 6) disposed in the
clean towels 12 or used towels 18 disposed in the first and/or
second interior spaces 10 and 11, respectively. As discussed in
more detail below, a number of clean towels 12 disposed in first
interior space 10 and/or a number of used towels 18 disposed in
second interior space 11 can be determined based on the data
received from the RFID read operation.
[0019] A user verification device, such as a card reader 55,
collects data that can be used to identify a user. In the
illustrated example, the user verification device comprises a card
reader 55 that reads membership cards 56 having bar codes disposed
thereon. However, other user verification devices could also be
utilized. In general, card reader 55 is selected to read membership
cards 56 that are also utilized by a health club or other facility
to identify members at the time they enter the facility. If the
system 1 is utilized to track uniforms at a workplace, the card
reader 55 may be configured to identify employees or other
authorized users. The article dispensing and receiving system 1
also includes a control system 50 that may include a controller 52
that is mounted to first main door 20 and other components 53
mounted to a movable support or tray 54 disposed in first cabinet
3. Controller 52 may comprise a PC, a PLC, or other suitable
controller. Controller 52 may be mounted to tray 54 or other
suitable location other than door 20. Some of the control system
components may also be mounted in second cabinet 4. For example, a
first controller may be mounted in cabinet 3, and a second
controller may be mounted in cabinet 4. Also, as discussed in more
detail below in connection with FIG. 5, control system 50 may
include additional components, such as a server 60 and optional
host computer system 61 that are operably interconnected by a
network 62 that may comprise a wireless network including a
plurality of antennas 64-66 and associated hardware and software.
In the illustrated example, cabinets 3 and 4 are interconnected by
one or more power and/or data lines 57. In the illustrated example,
a single electrical power line 67 with a conventional 110 volt plug
68 supplies power to a power supply/transformer 69. One or more of
the lines 57 may comprise a power line that supplies power from
cabinet 3 to cabinet 4. However, cabinets 3 and 4 can also be
separately powered. Cabinets 3 and 4 may be remotely positioned
relative to one another, with the cabinets 3 and 4 being operably
interconnected by a wireless network, a data communication line, or
other suitable arrangement. The control system 50 is operably
interconnected with the first powered lock 23 to selectively
actuate the lock 23 to control access through access door 22. If
system 1 includes a second powered lock 34, control system 50 may
be operably connected to lock 34 to control access through return
door 32. Control system 50 is also operably connected to the RFID
antennas 41-44, and the control system 50 is configured to actuate
the RFID system 40 to generate a first data set corresponding to a
number of clean towels 12 in the first interior space 10 upon
opening and/or closing of the first main door 20. The first data
set may comprise an initial inventory corresponding to the number
of clean towels 12 disposed in the first interior space 10 of first
cabinet 3 after mobile rack 13 and clean towels 12 are moved into
the first interior space 10, but prior to removal of any clean
towels 12 by a user. The control system 50 selectively controls the
first powered lock 23 to unlock the access door 22 based, at least
in part, on data from the user identification device or card reader
55. Control system 50 is configured to actuate the RFID system 40
and generate a second data set corresponding to a number of towels
12 in first interior space 10, such that a number of towels 12
removed from first interior space 10 can be determined by taking a
difference between the first and second data sets.
[0020] Referring again to FIGS. 1 and 2, in the illustrated
example, first cabinet 3 has generally upright opposite sides 72
and 73, and upright front and rear sides 74 and 75, respectively.
Similarly, cabinet 4 includes opposite sides 76 and 77 and upright
front and rear sides 78 and 79, respectively. With further
reference to FIG. 3, cabinets 3 and 4 may be spaced-apart to form a
gap 80 between the cabinets 3 and 4 with the cabinets 3 and 4 being
positioned adjacent one another on a floor surface 5. In a
preferred embodiment, each cabinet 3, 4 has a total height of about
80 inches, a side-to-side width of about 40 inches, and a
front-to-back depth of about 34-35 inches. However, it will be
understood that the dimensions of the cabinet structure 2 may be
configured as required for dispensing articles other than towels,
and to accommodate the needs of different facilities utilizing the
dispensing and tracking system 1. For example, the dispensing and
tracking system 1 may be utilized to track uniforms, sheets,
blankets, or almost any other item. In general, RFID tags are
attached to the items being tracked as required for a particular
application. Cabinets 3 and 4 may, alternately, comprise a single
structural unit defining the first and second interior spaces 10
and 11. Cabinets 3 and 4 are preferably made of a relatively thin
sheet metal material that prevents escape of signals from RFID
antennas 41-44. First interior space 10 is isolated by cabinet
structure 2 from second interior space 11. This prevents RFID
antennas 41 and 42 from receiving signals from RFID tags on used
towels 18 disposed in second interior space 11. Similarly, RFID
antennas 43 and 44 of second cabinet 4 do not receive signals from
RFID tags of clean towels 12 disposed within interior space 10.
[0021] In a preferred embodiment, elongated seals 81 extend around
enlarged first and second openings 15 and 17 of first and second
cabinets 3 and 4, respectively. Seals 81 comprise commercially
available seals configured to prevent escape of electromagnetic
signals from RFID antennas and/or RFID tags when the first and
second main access doors 22 and 30 are in their respective closed
position relative to the other portions of the cabinet structures 3
and 4, respectively. RFID seals may also be utilized at first
access opening 21 of first cabinet 3 and second access opening 31
of second cabinet 4. In a preferred embodiment, access door 22
includes a light-transmitting sheet, such as a glass sheet 82.
Glass sheet 82 may comprise commercially available glass having a
conductive layer or other properties that cause it to prevent
transmission of RFID signals therethrough.
[0022] The main doors 20 and 30 are preferably pivotally mounted to
first and second cabinet structures 3 and 4, respectively, by one
or more hinges 83 or other suitable arrangement. One or more locks
84 selectively lock main doors 20 and 30 in their respective closed
positions to prevent unauthorized access to the first and second
interior spaces 10 and 11, respectively. Locks 84 may comprise
mechanical locks which require use of a key by authorized
personnel. Locks 84 could comprise powered locks that are operably
connected to the control system 50, and control system 50 may be
configured to prevent locks 84 from being actuated if the RFID
system 40 is conducting a read operation. Also, if locks 84
comprise powered locks, control system 50 may be configured to
prevent actuation/release of locks 84 unless appropriate
authorization is detected by control system 50 from card reader 55
or other authorization input device.
[0023] Referring again to FIG. 3, cabinet 3 preferably includes a
relatively thin (i.e., low height) lower member 88 disposed
immediately adjacent floor surface 5 and extending across enlarged
first opening 15. Similarly, cabinet 4 preferably includes a
relatively thin horizontal member 89 extending across a lower
portion of enlarged second opening 17. Mobile rack 13 and mobile
bin 16 include a plurality of rollers or casters 90, such that the
mobile rack 13 and mobile bin 16 into and out of interior spaces 10
and 11, respectively. In the illustrated example, mobile rack 13
includes a plurality of horizontal support surfaces, such as
shelves 91, that support stacks of clean towels 12. In use, control
system 50 may be configured to generate a signal when the number of
clean towels 12 in first interior space 10 falls below a predefined
number of towels 12, and/or if the RFID system 40 indicates that no
towels 12 are presently disposed in first interior space 10. Upon
receiving a "low towel" or "empty" signal, a user can open first
main door 20, roll a first mobile rack 13 out of first interior
space 10, and roll a second mobile rack 13 (not shown) having a
large number of clean towels 12 thereon into first interior space
10. If a relatively small number of clean towels are disposed on
the first mobile rack 13 at the time it is removed from first
interior spaced 10, a user can transfer the clean towels 12 to the
second mobile rack 13 if there is sufficient space on the second
mobile rack 13. This way, one or more additional mobile racks 13
can be preloaded with clean towels 12 at a central laundry
processing facility (not shown) to permit rapid restocking of first
cabinet 3 with clean towels 12.
[0024] Mobile bin 16 can be rolled into and out of second interior
space 11 and additional mobile bins 16 (not shown) may be provided.
Controller 50 may be configured to generate a signal to a user if a
number of used towels 18 detected by RFID system 40 is at or
exceeds a predefined number. A user can then open second access
door 30, roll a mobile bin 16 and used towels 18 out of second
interior space 11, and immediately roll an empty mobile bin 16 into
interior space 11. Door 30 can then be closed and locked.
[0025] Referring again to FIG. 2, first cabinet 3 may include a
sensor 92 that is operably connected to the control system 50 and
second cabinet 4 may include a sensor 93 that is also operably
connected to the control system 50. Sensors 92 and 93 provide a
signal to the control system 50 indicating that main doors 20 and
30 are open or closed. As discussed in more detail below,
controller 50 may be configured to utilize information from sensors
92 and 93 to conduct read operations by RFID system 40 to determine
the number of towels 12 and 18 disposed in interior spaces 10 and
11, respectively.
[0026] Referring again to FIGS. 1 and 2, a sensor 95 is mounted to
first main door 20 of first cabinet 3. Sensor 95 is operably
connected to control system 50, and generates a signal enabling
controller 50 to determine if access door 22 is in the open or
closed position. With reference to FIG. 4, a sensor 96 is operably
connected to control system 50 by a line 97. Sensor 96 generates a
signal to the control system 50 enabling the control system 50 to
determine if return door 32 is in an open or closed position. In
the illustrate example, sensor 96 comprises a read switch that
generates a signal if a side edge 98 of return door 32 moves past
sensor 96 upon closing return door 32.
[0027] Referring back to FIG. 1, a user input device or panel 100
may be mounted to main door 20 of first cabinet 3. User input
device 100 includes a touch screen display 101 that is operably
interconnected with the control system 50 to permit input of
information by a user. The touch screen 101 may also be configured
to display prompts or other information to a user. With reference
to FIG. 2, PLC 52 may be mounted immediately adjacent card reader
55, and the PLC 52 may be operably interconnected with card reader
55 by communication lines 102. PLC 52 may be operably
interconnected with other components 53 of control system 50 by a
plurality of communication and/or power lines 103. Referring again
to FIG. 1, in use, a user swipes card 56 through card reader 55,
and server 60 of control system 50 compares data from the card 56
with a database of authorized users. If the card 56 is recognized,
a "open door" or other message or indicator appears on touch screen
101, and the powered lock is actuated by control system 50 to shift
the powered lock 23 to an open position. Control system 50 may be
configured to keep the powered lock 23 in an open position for a
predefined period of time (e.g. 3 seconds or 5 seconds). Control
system 50 may also be configured to provide other indicators or
signals to a user that lock 23 is in an unlocked position. For
example, control system 50 could be operably connected to a speaker
or other audio device that generates a buzzing sound or other audio
signal when lock 23 is in the retracted/unlocked position. Control
system 50 could also be operably connected to colored lights or
other suitable visual indicator that signals when lock 23 is
unlocked.
[0028] Referring again to FIG. 3, various electrical components and
the like 53 of the power supply and control system 50 may be
mounted to a movable mounting structure or tray 54. The tray
structure 54 has an overall shape that is somewhat similar to a
box, with a base side wall 125 and peripheral side walls 126-129
that extend transversely from side wall 125 to define a peripheral
edge 130 of tray 54. The tray 54 thereby defines a shallow cavity
or space 131 in which various electrical and power components 53
are mounted. Tray 54 is movably mounted to an upper structural
portion 132 of cabinet 3 by hinges or the like, such that tray 54
can pivot to an open position (FIG. 3) for servicing of components
53 and the like mounted in tray 54. Tray 54 may also be pivoted to
a closed position when the components are not being serviced. When
tray 54 is in the closed position, side wall 125 is in a
substantially horizontal position adjacent upper structure 132 of
cabinet 3, such that the cavity or space 131 of tray 54 is
substantially closed off relative to first interior space 10 of
cabinet 3. It will be understood that the components 53 may
comprise components of the RFID system 40, control system 50,
and/or components of the power supply system 69. In the illustrated
example, a wireless antenna 65 and communication module 135 may be
mounted to an upper structure 136 of cabinet 4. Alternately,
wireless antenna 65 and communication module 135 may be mounted in
cabinet 3. As discussed above, one or more communications and/or
power lines 57 may be utilized to interconnect cabinets 3 and 4. As
discussed in more detail below, antenna 65 may be utilized to
interconnect cabinets 3 and 4 to other computers and/or servers to
thereby operably interconnect control system 50 to one or more host
computers or systems.
[0029] Referring again to FIG. 2, an interface 140 is preferably
disposed on a rear side of first cabinet 3. Interface 140 includes
various ports that enable a lap top computer or the like to be
operably interconnected with control system 50. The interface 140
preferably includes an RS232 port, a USB port, and an Ethernet
port. Interface 140 also preferably includes a conventional 110
volt receptacle whereby a lap top or the like can be readily
interconnected during servicing or the like of dispensing and
tracking system 1. In general, interface 140 may be utilized to
provide software updates to control system 50, perform diagnostic
tasks, and the like. Alternately, software updates, diagnostic
tasks, and the like may be performed by server 60, host computer
61, or other components that are operably interconnected by
wireless network 62 (FIG. 5).
[0030] Referring again to FIG. 2, a chute 105 extends downwardly
and inwardly from an inner side 106 of second main door 30
immediately adjacent second access opening 31 and return door 32.
With further reference to FIG. 4, chute 105 has a generally
U-shaped cross section including a lower web or wall 107 and
upwardly extending side webs or walls 108 and 109. Side webs or
walls 108 and 109 are preferably spaced-apart a dimension that is
greater than a width of return door 32, such that the chute 105
does not interfere with return door 32 as it pivots inwardly to the
position designated 32A (FIG. 4). The chute 105 ensures that used
towels 18 inserted through second access opening 31 slide inwardly,
and drop into mobile bin 16. A frame 110 extending around and
defining second access opening 31 preferably has a height and width
that is somewhat less than the dimensions of the return door 32,
such that peripheral edge portions 111-113 of return door 32
overlap frame 110 when return door 32 is in a closed position. This
prevents return door 32 from pivoting outwardly away from outer
side face 36 (FIG. 1) of second main door 30.
[0031] Referring again to FIG. 4, an optional second powered lock
34 includes a movable extension 35 that is operably connected to a
solenoid (not shown) or other powered actuator of second powered
lock 34. When the extension 35 of second powered lock 34 is in the
extended position shown in FIG. 5, return door 34 is locked in a
closed position, such that it cannot move either inwardly or
outwardly. Second powered lock 34 may include a spring (not shown)
or other biasing device that biases extension 35 into the extended
potion, and the solenoid or other powered actuator of second
powered lock 34 may be configured to retract extension 35 when
power is supplied to second powered lock 34 by power/data lines
114. The second powered lock 34 is operably connected to control
system 50 and power supply 69 by power and communication lines 114.
A magnetic latch 115 releasably retains return door 32 in the
closed position. In use, if the control system 50 is in an on
position, control system 50 will generate a signal causing
extension 35 of second powered lock 34 to be in a retracted
position unless predefined operating conditions are present.
Specifically, in use, a user may cause return door 32 to pivot
inward as used towels 18 are returned. As the return door 32 moves
back to the closed position, movement of return door 32 relative to
switch 96 causes switch 96 to generate a signal to control system
50. Once the return door 32 moves back to the closed position,
controller 50 causes the RFID system 40 to conduct a read operation
of second interior space 11. During the read operation, controller
50 causes extension 35 to remain in the extended position, thereby
preventing return door 32 from being opened during a read
operation. After completion of the read operation, controller 50
causes extension 35 of second powered lock 34 to retract, thereby
permitting return of additional used towels 18 through second
access opening 31.
[0032] With further reference to FIG. 6, the towels 12 and 18 may
comprise a conventional towel 116, and an RFID tag 45 may be
secured to towel 116 by use of a small patch 117 or the like that
is sewn or otherwise secured to towel 116. RFID tag 45 is
preferably a commercially available RFID tag that is configured to
withstand laundering and the like.
[0033] Referring again to FIG. 5, the article dispensing and
tracking system 1 may include cabinet structure 2, a server 60, and
a host computer 61 that are operably interconnected by a wireless
network 62 or other suitable network. Host computer 61 may comprise
a preexisting computer previously utilized by a health club or
other such facility to store information concerning members,
generate billing information, etc. It will be apparent that access
door 22 could be mounted to other portions of the cabinet structure
2 other than first main door 20. Similarly, return door 32 may be
mounted to other portions of cabinet structure 2 other than second
main door 30. As discussed above, the powered locks and open/closed
sensors for first and second main doors 20, 30, and for access door
22 and return door 32 are operably connected to control system 50,
which may include a controller 52. Controller 52 may comprise a
PLC, PC, or other suitable unit. Communications modules 135 may
also be operably interconnected with control system 50. The
communication modules 135 may include a Local Area Network (LAN)
137, a wireless bridge 138, and an RF module 139. A server 60 may
be positioned remote from cabinet structure 2. Server 60 may
comprise a PC 145 including software utilized by a health club or
the like to verify data received from a card reader 146 or the like
positioned at a front desk of the facility. In general, server 60
may include a printer 147 utilized for printing reports concerning
the number of unreturned towels associated with a particular user,
and other such uses. An uninterruptable power supply (UPS) 148 may
also be utilized in connection with server 60. A conventional data
entry and access unit 149 may also be utilized. The unit or
components 149 may comprise a computer screen, keyboard, computer
mouse and/or other such components. Server 60 may also include a
Network Interface Card (NIC) module 152 and a LAN communications
module 153. An optional computer host system 61 may also be
operably interconnected with the other components by a wireless
network 62 or the like.
[0034] In use, cabinet 3 is initially stocked with a plurality of
clean towels 12. This is accomplished by unlocking locks 84,
opening first main door 20, and rolling mobile rack 13 with clean
towels 12 into first interior space 10. First main door 20 is then
returned to a closed position. Controller 50 is configured to
actuate RFID system 40 to perform a read operation when sensor 92
generates a signal indicating the first main door 20 has been
opened and closed. Control system 50 thereby generates an initial
inventory list of all clean towels 12 disposed in first interior
space 10. In general, RFID tags 45 (FIG. 6), each have a unique
code, such that control system 50 can generate an inventory
concerning not only the total number of clean towels 12 disposed in
first interior space 10 but can also generate an inventory of the
specific clean towels that are initially disposed in first interior
space 10. In the illustrated example, a clean towel inventory of
clean towels disposed in cabinet 3 is stored in a controller/memory
unit of RFID system 40.
[0035] Also, during initial set up of dispensing and tracking
system 1, an empty mobile bin 16 is positioned in cabinet 4. This
is accomplished by unlocking locks 84, opening second main access
door 30, and rolling mobile bin 16 into second interior space 11.
Control system 50 is configured to actuate RFID system 40 to
conduct a read operation when sensor 93 generates a signal
indicating that second main door 30 has been opened and closed.
Control system 50 then generates an inventory of any used towels 18
that may be disposed in second interior space 11. In the
illustrated example, a used or returned towel inventory of towels
18 disposed in cabinet 4 is stored in a controller/memory unit of
RFID system 40.
[0036] If a user desires to remove clean towels 12 from cabinet 3,
the user provides control system 50 with user verification data. In
the illustrated example, a user swipes a membership card 56 through
card reader 55, and server 60 of control system 50 compares the ID
input data to a database of authorized users stored on server 60.
If the data entered satisfies predefined criteria for authorized
users, control system 50 causes first powered lock 23 to unlock for
a predefined period of time, and control system 50 may also
generate a signal causing touch screen 101 or other device to
provide the user with a signal that the powered lock 23 is
unlocked. For example, touch screen 101 may provide a "open door
and remove towels" signal, or a buzzer, light, or the like may be
used to indicate to the user that the access door 22 may be opened.
A user then opens door 22 and removes the desired number of clean
towels 12 from first interior space 10 through first enlarged
opening 15, and closes access door 22. Control system 50 is
configured to cause RFID system 40 to conduct a read operation of
first interior space 10 if control system 50 determines that access
door 22 has been opened and closed. Control system 50 then updates
the clean towel inventory list for first interior space 10 to
account for towels that have been removed by a user, and server 60
associated with control system 50 stores data concerning the towels
removed and assigns the removed towels to a user identified
utilizing the user data entered using membership card 56 just prior
to actuation of powered lock 23. In the illustrated example, PLC 52
of control system 50 causes RFID system 40 to conduct a read
operation upon opening and closing of door 22. RFID system 40
stores the results of this read operation as the "new" clean towel
inventory, and also takes the difference between the prior clean
towel inventory and the "new" clean towel inventory to generate a
list of towels that have been removed from cabinet 3. The RFID
system 40 transmits the list of towels that were removed from
cabinet 3 to PLC 52, and PLC 52 transfers the list to server 60
which assigns or associates the list of remove towels with a
specific user based on the user ID information obtained from card
reader 55 just prior to unlocking powered lock 23. The list of
removed towels and corresponding user ID information may be
transmitted from server 60 to system 61, or it may be stored in
memory of server 60.
[0037] To return used towels 18, a user pushes on return door 32,
placing the used towels 18 in chute 105 (see also FIG. 4). The used
towels 18 then slide down chute 105 and drop into mobile bin 16.
When return door 32 returns to the closed position, sensor 96 (FIG.
4) generates a signal, and control system 50 then causes RFID
system 40 to conduct a read operation of second interior space 11.
If system 1 includes a second powered lock 34, control system 50
may be configured to cause second powered lock 34 to remain in the
locked position during the read operation of second interior space
11. Control system 40 compares data from a read operation that has
just been conducted to data from a prior read operation (e.g. a
returned towel inventory) and determines which used towels 18 have
just been returned to return cabinet 4. Server 60 may then update
the data stored by system 61 concerning towels that had been
checked out/associated with a specific user previously identified
from membership card 56, and also replaces the prior returned towel
inventory with data from the most recent read operation. In the
illustrated example, the returned to inventory list is stored in a
controller/memory unit of RFID system 40.
[0038] Server 60 of control system 50 may be configured to
automatically generate a list of users who have unreturned towels
for more than a specified period of time. For example, server 60 of
control system 50 may be configured to generate a list of users who
have had towels for an unacceptably long period of time. For
example, if towels taken out by a specific user have not been
returned by the end of the day in which the towels were removed,
server 60 may generate a list of unreturned towels associated with,
or assigned to, specific users. Alternately, server 60 of control
system 50 may be configured to generate such a list of towels based
on a longer period of time to provide for situations in which a
user returns the towels at a later time. Also, server 60 of control
system 50 may be configured to generate a list only if other
criteria are also present, for example, server 60 of control system
50 may be configured to generate a list of users who have had
towels or other items removed for an unacceptably long period of
time only if more than a predefined number of towels or other items
have been unreturned for a predefined period of time. For example,
server 60 of control system 50 may be configured to generate a list
of users who have had five or more towels or other items for more
than 30 days. Still further, server 60 of control system 50 may be
configured to generate a signal to the computer 61 at a front desk
of a health club or the like, such that employees of the facility
receive a signal on computer screen 149 or the like if a user
having unreturned towels or other items utilized card reader 146
(FIG. 5) at the time a member entered the facility. Also, server 60
of control system 50 may be configured to interface with accounting
and billing software systems of the facility, such that members are
automatically billed if the individual members have had a specified
number of unreturned towels or other items for a specified period
of time.
[0039] According to another aspect of the present invention, server
60 of control system 50 may be operably interconnected to a central
data storage/processing center utilizing a global computer network.
A plurality of health clubs or other such facilities having one or
more dispensing and receiving systems 1 may be operably connected
to the central data storage/processing center to thereby process
information concerning members of a plurality of facilities. The
data storage/processing center utilizes data from each system 1 to
generate invoicing or other reports concerning individual members
or users of the systems 1 in the network.
[0040] It will be understood that the system 1 may be utilized to
track almost any type of item, and the present invention is not
therefore limited to tracking towels. Furthermore, the present
invention is not limited to RFID systems, and other types of data
storage devices, readers, and related components may be utilized.
Still further, the present system could utilize architectural walls
or other structures to form the interior spaces 10 and 11.
[0041] It will become apparent to those skilled in the art that
various modifications to the preferred embodiment of the invention
as described herein can be made without departing from the spirit
or scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.
* * * * *