GB2568700A - Tablet dispenser - Google Patents

Abstract

A tablet dispenser 10 is supported on a structure 12, 32 so that it can stand on a table with a glass 14 under it. Ideally the stand can have a pivotal base 20 to support the glass. The tablets 22 can be stacked in a cartridge 16 with a dispensing means 1 adjacent an open end of the cartridge. The tablets can be retained in the cartridge by one or two arms 40b covering its end but leaving two opposed side openings. The dispensing mechanism can be a cam 28; a wheel with peripheral recesses to receive the tablets; or a rotating or longitudinally reciprocating plate with apertures to receive the tables. Such devices can engage the tablets at the end of the cartridge, push them through the side opening of the cartridge and move them to an outlet opening of the dispenser. The wheel or plate could be as thick as the tablet or thinner and could rotate about an axis 26 parallel or perpendicular to the stacking direction and could pass between the arms of the cartridge. The dispenser could move under the force of a motor 24 or spring, possibly via a cam or crank.

Description

TABLET DISPENSER

Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a device for dispensing tablets. The present invention is particularly applicable, but by no means limited, for use in dispensing denture cleaning tablets. Other possible applications are envisaged for dispensing other kinds of tablets (e.g. medical/pharmaceutical tablets).

Background to the Invention

Dentures are removable false teeth that fit over a person’s gums, to replace missing teeth. Dentures must be cleaned regularly, typically as often as natural teeth, to remove debris and bacteria to prevent dental problems and promote dental hygiene. Moreover, certain substances, such as red wine, tea, coffee and tobacco, are prone to stain dentures, and it is desirable to remove such stains for aesthetic reasons.

Denture cleaning tablets are commonly used to clean dentures. In use, a denture cleaning tablet is dissolved in water (typically warm water), in a glass, mug or the like, to produce a cleaning solution (which is usually effervescent) in which the dentures are then placed for cleaning (typically for 10-30 minutes for light cleaning and antibacterial action, or longer, e.g. overnight, to combat heavier staining).

As is apparent from the labelling on commercially-available tubes of denture cleaning tablets, the tablets should be handled with care. The chemical composition of the tablets (typically sodium hypochlorite, and/or other cleaning/bleaching agents) can be caustic and therefore not for ingestion by humans, and can also be irritating to the eyes. Moreover, manufacturers of denture cleaning tablets advise immediate and thorough washing of the hands after touching the tablets, and to avoid touching the eyes or mouth after handling the tablets.

Thus, there is a desire to minimise (and preferably avoid) contact with denture cleaning tablets - particularly when transferring a tablet into a glass or the like, to prepare the cleaning solution.

Devices for dispensing denture cleaning tablets have been proposed, e.g. in US 2014/0339250 A1, but do not fully address the above issues, and/or have other shortcomings.

Summary of the Invention

According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a table-top device for dispensing a tablet, the device comprising: means for retaining a plurality of tablets; a dispensing mechanism comprising means for moving a said tablet and thereby dispensing the tablet into a glass or the like; and a support structure configured to support the dispensing mechanism such that said glass or the like can be located below the dispensing mechanism for receiving the tablet.

The expression “glass or the like” should be interpreted broadly, so as to encompass any suitable vessel into which a tablet may be dispensed. For dispensing denture cleaning tablets a drinking glass would typically be used, but alternatively a mug, cup or other vessel may be used instead.

By virtue of the support structure being configured to support the dispensing mechanism such that said glass or the like can be located below the dispensing mechanism, the tablet may be dispensed into the glass or the like without the user needing to handle the tablet. Accordingly, this removes the risk of the user subjecting their hands (and, in turn, eyes or mouth, etc.) to potentially harmful constituents within the tablet, when transferring the tablet into the glass.

In the presently-preferred embodiments, the means for retaining the plurality of tablets is configured to hold the tablets in a stack. This advantageously enables successive tablets to move controllably into a position from which they may be dispensed, one at a time, by the dispensing mechanism.

In various embodiments the means for retaining the plurality of tablets comprises a cartridge, or means for receiving a cartridge. The use of a cartridge to retain the tablets provides a straightforward way to simultaneously introduce a plurality of tablets to the device. Such a cartridge may be supplied pre-filled with tablets by a manufacturer/supplier, again removing the need for the user to handle them. In alternative embodiments the user may fill the cartridge with tablets, taking any necessary precautions, following which the tablets can be dispensed without the user needing to handle them. In yet other embodiments a commercially-available off-the-shelf tube of tablets may be inserted into the cartridge, or may itself serve as the cartridge. Such a cartridge may advantageously be removable from the dispensing device, to facilitate replenishment of tablets.

In certain embodiments, the cartridge comprises an opening at an end proximal to the dispensing mechanism, and means for holding a tablet within the opening such that the dispensing mechanism can act on the tablet and remove the tablet from the cartridge.

The cartridge may be open-ended at the end having the opening. However, in such a case, the tablets may be at risk of falling out of the cartridge when the cartridge is upturned.

Thus, in some embodiments the means for holding the tablet to be dispensed comprises an arm extending from a sidewall of the cartridge, across at least part of the width of the cartridge; wherein the opening is defined by a gap between the arm and the sidewall, through which gap each tablet passes when being dispensed. The gap has a depth corresponding to a thickness of the tablet, or a fraction of the thickness of the tablet more. Accordingly, the tablets within the cartridge can be supported by the arm prior to being dispensed, but each tablet is able to pass sideways through the gap when being dispensed - e.g. when pushed sideways by part of the dispensing mechanism, as discussed in greater detail below. In a particularly-preferred embodiment the arm extends across the full width of the cartridge. Further, the arm may be attached at both of its ends to the cartridge.

In a variant of the above arrangement, the arm is a first arm, and the cartridge further comprises a second arm extending from another part of the sidewall (e.g. opposing the first arm). The second arm is arranged to provide a space between the inner ends of the first and second arms and, in conjunction with the first arm, to support the tablets to be dispensed. The opening is defined by a gap between the arms and the sidewall, through which gap each tablet passes when being dispensed. The gap has a depth corresponding to a thickness of said tablet, or a fraction of the thickness of the tablet more. Accordingly, the tablets within the cartridge can be supported by the first and second arms prior to being dispensed, but each tablet is able to pass sideways through the gap when being dispensed. The space between the inner ends of the first and second arms can allow a wheellike part of the dispensing mechanism to act on a tablet in the opening, to convey the tablet out of the cartridge in an arcuate manner, as discussed in greater detail below.

In certain embodiments, the dispensing mechanism comprises a rotating element arranged to move the tablet to be dispensed sideways. Such rotating elements are well-suited to being driven by an electric motor.

In some embodiments the rotating element comprises a pushing member arranged to push the tablet to be dispensed. In alternative embodiments the rotating element may be arranged to pull the tablet to be dispensed (e.g. by hooking around the tablet to be dispensed and then pulling it).

For completeness, it should be noted that, in other embodiments, the dispensing mechanism may comprise a non-rotating element arranged to push or pull the tablet sideways. For example, the element may be arranged to act in a linear manner.

Preferably the thickness of such pushing members is equal to or less than the thickness of the tablet to be dispensed.

In certain embodiments which use a rotating element as a pushing member, the pushing member is arranged to rotate about an axis parallel to the stack of tablets. Moreover, if a cartridge is used to contain the tablets, the pushing member may be arranged to push the tablet to be dispensed, through a sideways gap at the end of the cartridge proximal to the dispensing mechanism. The shape of the pushing member may for example be cam-like, although other shapes and configurations of the pushing member are also possible.

In another embodiment which uses a rotating element as a pushing member, the rotating element comprises a wheel-like member having a recess in its outer edge for holding the tablet and conveying the tablet in an arc.

Preferably the depth of the recess is equal to or less than the thickness of the tablet to be dispensed.

Supplementary to the wheel-like member, the device may further comprise an arcuate surround disposed around at least part of the wheel-like member, for constraining the tablet in the recess during rotation of the wheel-like member (for instance as the tablet moves into a vertical position from which it could otherwise fall).

Preferably the wheel-like member is arranged to rotate about an axis perpendicular to the stack of tablets.

Moreover, if a cartridge is used to contain the tablets, the wheel-like member may be arranged to act on a tablet through a space between the inner ends of first and second arms which support the tablet, to convey the tablet in an arc away from the cartridge.

In other embodiments the dispensing mechanism comprises a carrier plate having an aperture, the carrier plate being adapted to receive the tablet in the aperture and to move the tablet into a dispensing position.

In one such embodiment the carrier plate is arranged to move in a reciprocating manner between a first position in which it receives the tablet in the aperture, and a second position in which it dispenses the tablet.

Biasing means (e.g. one or more springs) may be arranged to return the carrier plate from the second position to the first position. By virtue of the biasing means returning the carrier plate to the first position, the next tablet may be automatically preloaded into the carrier plate, ready to be dispensed when the user next requires one.

In an alternative embodiment, the carrier plate may be arranged to rotate and thereby move the aperture from a first position in which the aperture receives the tablet, to a subsequent position in which the tablet is dispensed from the aperture.

In various embodiments which use a carrier plate, the carrier plate may be mounted above a static lower plate, the lower plate being arranged to support the tablet between being received by the carrier plate and being dispensed. The lower plate may incorporate an aperture through which the tablet is dispensed.

Further, a static upper plate may be mounted above the carrier plate, the upper plate having an aperture through which the tablet is received by the carrier plate, the aperture in the upper plate being offset relative to the aperture in the lower plate, the carrier plate being configured to move the tablet from a position aligned with the aperture in the upper plate to a position aligned with the aperture in the lower plate. A tube or cartridge of tablets may be aligned with (and potentially located in) the aperture in the upper plate, to provide the tablets to be dispensed.

Optionally the dispensing device may further comprise a diagonal chute along which the tablet travels whilst being dispensed. By virtue of such a chute, if the tablet lands in a glass with water in it, the chute protects the tablets remaining in the device from splashes of water, or effervescent solution, with which the tablets could otherwise react.

Optionally the device further comprises a base for supporting the glass or the like. Such a base may be pivotally mounted, in particular to enable the base to be folded into a more compact position when not in use (e.g. for the sake of more efficient packaging, transportation and storage).

Optionally, any of the above dispensing mechanisms can be motorised. Such a motorised dispensing mechanism may be of particular benefit to elderly people with arthritis, for instance, who may lack the ability to work a manually-operated dispensing mechanism. By being motorised, the device may be configured to dispense the tablet in a simple manner, e.g. by pressing a button or activating a sensor.

The above dispensing mechanisms which incorporate a rotating element may be motorised by providing a motor to drive the rotating element. In the case of dispensing mechanisms which incorporate a linear pushing member or a reciprocating carrier plate, a cam or crank arrangement may be employed to convert the rotational motion of the motor into linear motion of the pushing member or carrier plate.

In certain embodiments the device may further comprise processing means (e.g. a suitably programmed microprocessor) configured to control the operation of the motor. The device may also further comprise electronic display means controlled by the processing means, for indicating one or more of: the number of tablets remaining in the dispenser; the number of tablets dispensed by the dispenser; a fault with the dispenser; power supply information; an alert to prompt the user to use the dispenser; an alert to prompt the user to replenish the tablets; and potentially other matters.

The tablets may be denture cleaning tablets. Alternatively, the device may be used (or adapted for use) with other types of tablets, such as medical/pharmaceutical tablets.

According to a second aspect of the invention there is provided a method of dispensing a tablet, comprising using the device according to the first aspect of the invention.

According to a third aspect of the invention there is provided a cartridge for containing a plurality of tablets to be dispensed by a dispensing device having a dispensing mechanism, the cartridge comprising an opening at one end, and means for holding a tablet within the opening such that the dispensing mechanism can act on the tablet and remove the tablet from the cartridge. The dispensing device, with which the cartridge is for use, may be as outlined above. Optional features of the cartridge are also outlined above.

Such a cartridge may be supplied pre-filled with a plurality of tablets, such as denture cleaning tablets. The cartridge may be a replaceable consumable product (in a similar manner to ink/toner cartridges for printers, for example), for use with a compatible dispensing device.

Brief Description of the Drawings

Embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, and with reference to the drawings in which:

Figure 1 illustrates an external perspective overview of a first embodiment of a table-top device for dispensing denture cleaning tablets;

Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of the embodiment of Figure 1, showing a first dispensing mechanism incorporating a cam-like pushing member, and a cartridge for holding a plurality of tablets in a stack;

Figure 3 illustrates a close-up of the dispensing mechanism of Figure 2, with the cam-like member pushing a tablet;

Figures 4a and 4b illustrate perspective overviews from two different angles of a cartridge for holding a plurality of tablets (as inserted into the top of the dispenser of Figure 1);

Figure 5 illustrates an external perspective overview of a second embodiment of a table-top device for dispensing denture cleaning tablets;

Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of the embodiment of Figure 5, showing a second dispensing mechanism incorporating a wheel-like member;

Figure 7 illustrates a close-up of the dispensing mechanism of Figure 6, with the wheel-like member holding a tablet in a recess of the wheel-like member, prior to moving the tablet;

Figure 8 illustrates a chute arrangement (applicable to any of the embodiments described herein);

Figure 9 illustrates a perspective overview of a third embodiment of a table-top device for dispensing denture cleaning tablets, in which the dispensing mechanism comprises a manually-operated reciprocating carrier plate;

Figure 10a illustrates, in cross-section, the embodiment of Figure 9 at rest, and

Figure 10b illustrates, in cross-section, the embodiment of Figure 9 in use, dispensing a tablet;

Figure 11a illustrates, in cross-section, a fourth embodiment of a table-top device for dispensing denture cleaning tablets, in which the dispensing mechanism comprises a manually-operated rotating carrier plate, at rest, and

Figure 11b illustrates, in cross-section, the embodiment of Figure 11a in use, with the carrier plate having been rotated anti-clockwise from the position shown in Figure 11a, to dispense a tablet;

Figure 12 illustrates a plan view from above of the carrier plate of the embodiment of Figures 11a and 11b;

Figure 13 schematically illustrates a motorised variant of the embodiment of Figures 9, 10a and 10b, including a motor-driven cam arranged to push the carrier plate;

Figure 14 illustrates a motorised variant of the embodiment of Figures 11a and 11b;

Figure 15a is a schematic illustration of electrical circuitry for use in motorised variants of the present embodiments, in an arrangement in which operation of the drive motor is directly dependent on the user actuating a switch; and

Figure 15b is a schematic illustration of electrical circuitry for use in motorised variants of the present embodiments, in an arrangement in which operation of the drive motor is controlled by a microprocessor in response to the user actuating a switch, and also showing an optional indicator display.

In the figures, like elements are indicated by like reference numerals throughout.

Detailed Description of Preferred Embodiments

The present embodiments represent the best ways known to the Applicant of putting the invention into practice. However, they are not the only ways in which this can be achieved.

In the description that follows, and in the discussion of the drawings above, embodiments of the invention are described primarily in relation to the dispensing of denture cleaning tablets. However, as those skilled in the art will appreciate, the principles of the present invention are by no means limited to such an application, and variants may be produced for dispensing other types of tablets (e.g. medical/pharmaceutical tablets).

Overview

By way of an initial overview, the present embodiments are freestanding table-top devices for dispensing denture cleaning tablets. In each case, the device comprises means (e.g. a cartridge, hopper, channel or other means) for retaining a plurality of denture cleaning tablets; a dispensing mechanism for dispensing a tablet into a glass or the like; and a support structure configured to support the dispensing mechanism above the table-top such that the glass or the like can be located below the dispensing mechanism for receiving the tablet, without the user needing to handle the tablet. In general terms, the means for retaining the tablets and the dispensing mechanism are provided by an upper part of the device, and the support structure is provided by a lower part of the device.

It will of course be appreciated that the glass or the like is not part of the device, and can be freely introduced to, and removed from, the device by a user. The glass or the like may however be supplied with the device. Alternatively, the user may use their own glass or the like, of a suitable size (typically between about cm and about 15 cm in height, although smaller or larger glasses, or other vessels, are also possible).

A first embodiment of the device is shown in overview in Figures 1 and 2, a second embodiment is shown in overview in Figures 5 and 6, and further embodiments are shown in Figures 9 to 14.

With regard to the device 10 of the first embodiment (see Figures 1 and 2), a dispensing mechanism 1 (Figure 2) is held in an elevated position by a support structure formed by the walls of the device (including wall region 20), providing a space 21 beneath the dispensing mechanism 1 into which a glass 14 or the like (which may contain water 15) can be positioned, for receiving a dispensed tablet 22a from a plurality of tablets 22.

Likewise, in the device 50 of the second embodiment (see Figures 5 and 6), a dispensing mechanism 2 (Figure 6) is held in an elevated position by a support structure formed by the walls of the device (including wall region 20), again providing a space 21 beneath the dispensing mechanism 2 into which a glass 14 or the like (which may contain water 15) can be positioned, for receiving a dispensed tablet 22a from a plurality of tablets 22.

Similarly, in the further embodiments of Figures 9 to 14, dispensing mechanisms 3, 4, 5 and 6 are held in elevated positions by respective support structures, in each case providing a space 21 into which a glass 14 or the like can be positioned, for receiving a dispensed tablet 22a from a plurality of tablets 22 retained above the dispensing mechanism.

The present embodiments and their respective dispensing mechanisms will now be described in more detail.

First embodiment, in which the dispensing mechanism comprises a pushing member

Figure 1 illustrates an external view of the tablet dispenser device 10 of the first embodiment. The device 10 has an outer casing 12, which may be made of a suitable plastic material, for example - e.g. by injection moulding. A recessed space 21 is provided in the device 10, for receiving a glass 14 or the like (which may contain water 15), into which a tablet is to be dispensed. The outer casing 12 houses the internal components of the device 10, including the dispensing mechanism 1, and provides support for the internal components. The outer casing 12 (including wall region 20) holds the dispensing mechanism in an elevated position, above the glass 14.

The dispensing mechanism is motorised, powered by electricity. Buttons 18a and 18b for operating the device 10 are mounted on the outer casing 12. In the illustrated embodiment a first button 18a is operable to switch the device 10 on and off, and a second button 18b is operable to drive the dispensing mechanism and thereby cause a tablet to be dispensed. However, in alternative embodiments a single button may be provided that, when pressed, both provides power to and drives the dispensing mechanism.

The illustrated device 10 includes a cartridge 16 which is removable from the device 10, and which contains a plurality of denture cleaning tablets 22 (see also Figure 2) in a stack, to be dispensed over time. Thus, the cartridge 16 acts as means for retaining the tablets. In the illustrated embodiment the tablets 22 are inserted directly into the cartridge 16, e.g. by the manufacturer/supplier of the cartridge/tablets, or, if the cartridge is refillable, as a preparatory step by the user. In alternative embodiments a commercially-available tube of tablets may be inserted into the cartridge 16 by the user. The cartridge 16 is arranged to provide the tablets, one at a time, to the dispensing mechanism. Detailed features of the cartridge 16, and the way in which it cooperates with the dispensing mechanism, are described in greater detail below.

Figures 2 and 3 illustrate the internal components of the device 10, including the dispensing mechanism 1. From Figure 2 it can also be seen that a plurality of transverse bracing members 30 are provided within the outer casing 12, to provide structural rigidity to the outer casing 12 and also to define a channel into which the cartridge 16 is inserted. The illustrated embodiment also includes a base 32 having an outer (circumferential) support 32a and inner support ribs 32b. The supports 32a, 32b may be rubberised or otherwise treated to cause the device 10 to grip the surface (e.g. a kitchen worktop or bedside table) on which it is placed. A platform 38 for supporting the glass 14 is provided above the base 32.

A plurality of tablets 22 are retained within the cartridge 16, in a stack, to be dispensed one at a time from an opening at the lower end of the cartridge 16, proximal to the dispensing mechanism 1.

In this embodiment, the dispensing mechanism 1 comprises a pushing member 28 that is rotatably driven by an electric motor 24. In this embodiment the pushing member 28 is cam-like, although in other embodiments it may take the form of an arm (straight or curved), a paddle, or some other shape. The pushing member 28 is driven (i.e. rotated) by the electric motor 24 by means of an axle 26. The pushing member 28 is located alongside the bottom of the cartridge 16, next to the opening at the lower end of the cartridge 16, and is arranged to act on the lowermost tablet 22a in the stack of tablets 22, to push the lowermost tablet 22a sideways and cause it to be dispensed.

More particularly, the pushing member 28 is arranged so as to rotate in the plane of the lowermost tablet 22a in the stack of tablets 22, the thickness of the pushing member 28 being equal to or less than the thickness of each tablet. It will be appreciated that, in this embodiment, the axis of rotation of the axle 26 and the pushing member 28 is parallel to the stack of tablets 22. The pushing member 28 has a resting position when not performing its dispensing function, in which resting position the pushing member 28 is alongside the tablet 22a to be dispensed, but does not displace the tablet 22a.

As shown in close-up in Figure 3, the cam-like pushing member 28 of this embodiment has an extended part 28a that is shaped to push the lowermost tablet 22a sideways as the cam-like pushing member 28 rotates (in a clockwise manner in the illustrated view). However, in other embodiments, such sideways pushing may be achieved by other geometries of the pushing member 28.

In use, to dispense a single tablet 22a, the motor 24 causes the pushing member 28 to perform a single revolution. As the pushing member 28 rotates (moving from its resting position) it pushes the lowermost tablet 22a of the stack sideways, out of and away from the cartridge 16, such that the tablet 22a can then fall under gravity into the glass 14. The time taken for the pushing member 28 to perform a revolution and thereby dispense the tablet 22a may be of the order of a second, or less, with the motor 24 driving the pushing member 28 in a steady manner, so as to push the tablet 22a in a controlled way rather than abruptly impacting it, thereby avoiding cracking or fragmenting the tablet.

Once the tablet 22a has been dispensed and as the pushing member 28 returns to its resting position, the next tablet 22b to be dispensed falls into place alongside the pushing member 28. In this embodiment, as each tablet is dispensed, the remaining tablets move downwards in the cartridge 16, towards the pushing member 28, solely due to the effect of gravity. However, in alternative embodiments, a spring, weight or other urging means can be provided at the upper end of the cartridge 16, distal from the pushing member 28, to urge the tablets in the stack towards the pushing member 28.

The electric motor 24 (and the device 10 overall) may be powered by any suitable source of electric power. In the illustrated embodiment the source of electric power is a battery 29a (which is preferably rechargeable) that is held in a battery holder 34 having terminals 36 that are connected by appropriate circuitry (not shown) to the motor 24 and the switches 18a, 18b. In addition (or alternatively) electric power may be drawn via a USB (universal serial bus) port 29b. In the illustrated embodiment power from the USB port 29b may be used to recharge the battery 29a. In alternative embodiments a mains power supply (optionally incorporating a transformer) may be used to provide electrical power to the device, to operate it, or to recharge the battery 29a. These sources of electrical power are also applicable to the subsequent motor-driven embodiments described herein.

As discussed above, the cam-like pushing member 28 is configured to dispense one tablet (e.g. tablet 22a in Figures 2 and 3) with one complete revolution of the pushing member 28. However, other configurations of the pushing member are possible, e.g. in which the pushing member has two or more angularly-separated pushing arms, such that only a partial revolution of the pushing member is required to dispense a tablet. In such a case, the extent of the partial revolution, in degrees, required to dispense a single tablet may be given by 3607η, where n is the number of angularly-separated pushing arms possessed by the pushing member. (This assumes that the pushing arms are equally spaced.) Moreover, the upper surface of the pushing member may be configured to support the next tablet in the stack (e.g. tablet 22b in Figures 2 and 3), whilst the tablet to be dispensed (tablet 22a in Figures 2 and 3) is pushed sideways.

Second embodiment, in which the dispensing mechanism comprises a wheel-like member

Figure 5 illustrates an external view of the tablet dispenser device 50 of the second embodiment. As with the above-described first embodiment, the device 50 has an outer casing 52, which may be made of a suitable plastic material, for example - e.g. by injection moulding. A recessed space 21 is provided in the device 50, for receiving a glass 14 or the like (which may contain water 15), into which a tablet is to be dispensed. The outer casing 52 houses the internal components of the device 50, including the dispensing mechanism 2, and provides support for the internal components. The outer casing 52 (including wall region 20) holds the dispensing mechanism in an elevated position, above the glass 14.

The dispensing mechanism is motorised, powered by electricity. Buttons 18a and 18b for operating the device 50 are mounted on the outer casing 52. In the illustrated embodiment a first button 18a is operable to switch the device 50 on and off, and a second button 18b is operable to drive the dispensing mechanism and thereby cause a tablet to be dispensed. However, in alternative embodiments a single button may be provided that, when pressed, both provides power to and drives the dispensing mechanism.

A flap 58 is provided on the top of the device 50. When the flap 58 is lifted, tablets may be inserted into the device 50, to be dispensed over time. The tablets may be introduced by means of a removable cartridge 57 (see Figure 6; similar in some respects to the cartridge 16 of the first embodiment) containing a stack of tablets 22. Thus, the cartridge 57 acts as means for retaining the tablets. In the illustrated embodiment the tablets 22 are inserted directly into the cartridge 57, e.g. by the manufacturer/supplier of the cartridge/tablets, or, if the cartridge is refillable, as a preparatory step by the user. In alternative embodiments a commercially-available tube of tablets may be inserted into the cartridge 57 by the user. The cartridge 57 is arranged to provide the tablets, one at a time, to the dispensing mechanism.

The illustrated embodiment also includes a pivotally-mounted base 54, having a pivot axis 56 (see Figure 7). This enables the base 54 to be folded upwards, within the recessed space 21, to make the overall device more compact when not in use (e.g. for the sake of more efficient packaging, transportation and storage). The pivotally-mounted base 54 may lock into position when in the “in-use” configuration of Figure 5, e.g. by the action of a detent mechanism.

Figures 6 and 7 illustrate the internal components of the device 50, including the dispensing mechanism 2. From Figure 5 it can also be seen that a plurality of transverse bracing members 30 are provided within the outer casing 52, to provide structural rigidity to the outer casing 52 and also to define a channel into which the cartridge 57 is inserted.

A plurality of support ribs 54a are provided on the underside of the pivotallymounted base 54. The support ribs 54a may be rubberised or otherwise treated to cause the device 50 to grip the surface (e.g. a kitchen worktop or bedside table) on which it is placed. The base 54 acts as a platform for supporting the glass 14.

A plurality of tablets 22 are retained within the cartridge 57, in a stack, to be dispensed one at a time from an opening at the lower end of the cartridge 57, proximal to the dispensing mechanism 2.

In this embodiment, the dispensing mechanism 2 comprises a wheel-like member 60 that is rotatably driven by an electric motor 64 in a given direction (e.g. clockwise; or in an alternative embodiment, anticlockwise). The wheel-like member 60 is driven (i.e. rotated) by the electric motor 64 by means of an axle 61. The wheel-like member 60 is located under the cartridge 57, beneath the opening at the lower end of the cartridge 57, and is arranged to act on the lowermost tablet 22a in the stack of tablets 22.

More particularly, the wheel-like member 60 comprises at least one recess 62 in its outer edge (four such recesses 62 are provided in the illustrated embodiment, at 90° intervals around the wheel-like member 60). The/each recess 62 is shaped so as to receive the lowermost tablet 22a from the cartridge 57 (the depth of the/each recess being equal to or less than the thickness of each tablet). It will be appreciated that, in this embodiment, the axis of rotation of the axle 61 and the wheel-like member 60 is perpendicular to the stack of tablets 22.

In use, to dispense a single tablet, the motor 64 causes the wheel-like member 60 to rotate. This causes each tablet to be conveyed in an arc about the axis of rotation of the axle 61, from a receiving position at the top of the wheel-like member 60, ultimately to a dispensing position at the bottom of the wheel-like member 60. In general, during use, the extent of rotation, in degrees, of the wheel-like member required to dispense a single tablet may be given by 3607η, where n is the number of recesses in the outer edge of the wheel-like member. (This assumes that the recesses are equally spaced, as illustrated, and that any intermediate recesses after the receiving position and before the dispensing position are occupied by a tablet.) The time taken for the wheel-like member 60 to rotate and thereby dispense a tablet may be of the order of the second, or less, with the motor 64 driving the wheel-like member 60 in a steady manner.

In the illustrated embodiment a pair of arcuate surrounds 63 are provided around the wheel-like member 60, for constraining the tablets in the recesses 62 during rotation of the wheel-like member 60 (i.e. so that the tablets do not fall out of the recesses when in an intermediate, e.g. vertical, position). Although a pair of arcuate surrounds 63 are illustrated in Figure 6, one on each side of the wheel-like member 60, it will be appreciated that only one arcuate surround 63 may be required, on one side of the wheel-like member 60, depending on the direction of rotation of the wheel-like member 60, as any given tablet is only carried 180° of the full rotation of the wheel-like member 60.

Once the wheel-like member 60 has conveyed a tablet (e.g. tablet 22a in Figure 6) away from the bottom of the cartridge 57, the next tablet to be dispensed falls into a returning empty recess 62 in the wheel-like member 60, for dispensing on a future occasion. In this embodiment, as each tablet is dispensed, the remaining tablets move downwards in the cartridge 57, towards the wheel-like member 60, solely due to the effect of gravity. However, in alternative embodiments, a spring, weight or other urging means can be provided at the upper end of the cartridge 57, distal from the wheel-like member 60, to urge the tablets in the stack towards the wheel-like member 60.

As with the first embodiment, in this embodiment the electric motor 64 (and the device 50 overall) may be powered by any suitable source of electric power. The examples of power sources discussed in relation to the first embodiment are equally applicable to this embodiment.

In the illustrated embodiment the cartridge 57 is open-ended proximal to the wheel-like member 60, to enable the wheel-like member 60 to act on the lowermost tablet 22a in the cartridge. However, alternative cartridge designs may be used instead - such as a modified version of the cartridge 16 of Figures 1-3, as described below.

Cartridges for holding a plurality of tablets in a stack, in particular (but not exclusively) for use with the first and second embodiments

Figures 4a and 4b illustrate perspective overviews from two different angles of an elongate cartridge 16 for holding a plurality of tablets 22 in a stack. The illustrated cartridge 16 is particularly configured for use with the tablet dispenser 10 of the first embodiment (Figures 1-3). A modified version can be used with the tablet dispenser 20 of the second embodiment (Figures 5-7). Other versions can be used with the tablet dispensers of the other embodiments described below.

The body of the cartridge 16 is essentially a hollow tube for containing a plurality of denture cleaning tablets 22 (see also Figure 2) in a stack. The geometry of the internal bore of the cartridge 16 preferably corresponds to the geometry of the tablets 22, so as to confine the tablets in a stack formation and prevent (or at least impede) them from rotating within the cartridge. As a consequence, in use, the tablets 22 are kept in a stack formation as they progressively move towards the dispensing mechanism over time.

The tablets 22 may be inserted into the cartridge 16 by the manufacturer/supplier of the cartridge/tablets, or, if the cartridge is refillable, by the user, prior to inserting the cartridge 16 into the tablet dispenser 10. A lid 42 is provided at one end of the cartridge 16 (distal from the dispensing mechanism in use), to close the cartridge and retain the tablets therein. If the tablets 22 are inserted into the cartridge 16 by the manufacturer/supplier of the cartridge/tablets, the lid 42 may be permanently fixed to the body of the cartridge, to prevent (or at least impede) the cartridge from being refilled. Alternatively, if the cartridge 16 is refillable by the user, the lid 42 may be reversibly removable from the body of the cartridge.

At the opposite end of the cartridge 16 from the lid 42 (i.e. at the end of the cartridge 16 that is proximal to the dispensing mechanism in use) an opening 44 is provided in which each tablet to be dispensed is held in turn, in such a manner that the dispensing mechanism can extract the tablet from the cartridge. This is achieved by the cartridge 16 having means for holding a tablet to be dispensed within the opening 44, such that the dispensing mechanism can act on the tablet and remove the tablet from the cartridge 16.

In the illustrated embodiment of the cartridge 16, for use with the tablet dispenser 10 of Figures 1-3 (and for cooperating with the pushing member 28 in particular), the means for holding a tablet to be dispensed comprises an arm arrangement 40 extending longitudinally from the sidewalls of the cartridge 16 and across the width of the cartridge.

In more detail, the arm arrangement 40 as illustrated comprises three portions, namely a short longitudinally-extending arm portion 40a which extends from the sidewall, a longer transverse arm portion 40b (perpendicular to portion 40a) which spans the cartridge and which supports the tablet to be dispensed, and a short longitudinally-extending arm portion 40c which extends from the sidewall on the opposite side of the cartridge from arm portion 40a. The length of the longitudinally-extending arm portions 40a and 40b corresponds to the thickness of the tablet to be dispensed, or a fraction of the thickness of the tablet more.

Accordingly, the gap between the sidewalls of the cartridge and the transverse arm portion 40b corresponds to the thickness of the tablet to be dispensed, or a fraction of the thickness of the tablet more. As a consequence, one tablet (but not two or more) is able to pass sideways through the gap between the sidewalls of the cartridge and the transverse arm portion 40b, when pushed by the pushing member 28 (as illustrated most clearly in Figure 2).

Preferably (but not essentially) the gap between the sidewalls of the cartridge and the transverse arm portion 40b is large enough to accommodate the thickness of the pushing member 28; or, in other words, the thickness of the pushing member 28 is sufficiently thin to pass into said gap.

As a tablet is dispensed from the cartridge, the next tablet in the cartridge (e.g. tablet 22b in Figure 2) drops (or is urged) down onto the transverse arm portion 40b, to be dispensed on a future occasion.

In variants of the cartridge 16 the longitudinal and transverse arm portions may be broader than the bar-shape as illustrated. In particular, the transverse arm portion 40b may be broader than illustrated, to provide a greater degree of support for the tablets. Indeed, the transverse arm portion 40b may have a shape approaching, or the same as, the overall cross-section of the cartridge 16 or the tablets 22 (e.g. disc-shaped, or near-disc-shaped). Also, in alternative embodiments, the arm arrangement 40 may have only one longitudinally-extending arm portion (e.g. arm portion 40a) to support the transverse arm portion 40b; the second arm portion (e.g. arm portion 40c) may essentially be omitted.

The cartridge 16 of Figures 4a and 4b may be modified for use with the tablet dispenser 50 of Figures 5-7 (and for cooperating with the wheel-like member 60 in particular). For such a purpose, the transverse arm portion 40b (which is continuous in Figures 4a and 4b) may essentially be replaced by two partial transverse arm portions respectively extending inwards from the longitudinal arm portions 40a and 40c, with a space being provided between the partial transverse arm portions through which the wheel-like member 60 can rotate and act upon the lowermost tablet within the cartridge, said tablet being supported by the transverse arm portions. Thus, in this case, the two partial transverse arm portions do not extend across the full width of the cartridge. The two partial transverse arm portions may be aligned with one another, although this is not essential. The two partial transverse arm portions may extend inwards from opposing sides of the cartridge, although again this is not essential.

With the illustrated cartridge 16 for use with the dispenser 10 of Figures 1-3, and with the modified version for use with the dispenser 50 of Figures 5-7, the cartridge is preferably provided with means for ensuring its rotational alignment relative to the dispensing mechanism when inserted in the dispenser. For example, with the dispenser 10 of Figures 1-3, the pushing member 28 should not foul or be impeded by the arm arrangement 40 of the cartridge 16. Similarly, with the dispenser 50 of Figures 5-7, the wheel-like member 28 should not foul or be impeded by the modified arm arrangement of the cartridge. This may be achieved by the cartridge having a specific cross-sectional shape and the dispenser having a channel of a corresponding cross-sectional shape, with the cross-sectional shape of the cartridge and dispenser channel being such that the cartridge can only be inserted in one rotational position; or possibly in two rotational positions, 180° apart. That is to say, the cross-sectional shape of the cartridge may have 1fold or 2-fold rotational symmetry. Optionally one or more longitudinal ridges may be provided on the outside of the cartridge, configured to engage with (i.e. slot into) a corresponding longitudinal recess within the dispenser channel. Alternatively, one or more longitudinal recesses may be provided on the outside of the cartridge, configured to engage with (i.e. receive) a corresponding longitudinal ridge within the dispenser channel.

It will be appreciated that the above cartridges may be supplied pre-filled with tablets, with each cartridge being a replaceable consumable product (in a similar manner to ink/toner cartridges for printers, for example), for use with a reusable dispensing device.

Other variants of the cartridge 16 are possible. In particular, certain refillable cartridges may be configured to hold a commercially-available tube of tablets (which contains health and safety warnings that would be otherwise disposed of). A clip may be provided inside the cartridge to hold such a tube in place. With other refillable cartridges, the user may simply transfer a plurality of tablets from a commercially-available tube or packet into the cartridge.

In other embodiments, a commercially-available tube of tablets may itself act as the cartridge.

Further embodiments, in which the dispensing mechanism comprises a carrier plate

Third embodiment, incorporating a manually-operable linearly-reciprocating carrier plate

Figures 9, 10a and 10b illustrate an embodiment of a tablet dispenser device 100 having a manually-operated dispensing mechanism 3. The body of the device includes a back plate 102, top plate 101, base plate 116, upper guide plate 104, lower guide plate 108, and side plates 20, all of which are in static, fixed positions. These plates may be made of a suitable plastic material, for example.

A movable carrier plate 106 (having a handle 112) is slidably mounted between the upper guide plate 104 and the lower guide plate 108. The upper guide plate 104, moveable carrier plate 106 and lower guide plate 108 together form the dispensing mechanism 3 (see Figure 10a), which is supported in an elevated position such that a glass 14 or the like can be accommodated in the space 21 beneath the dispensing mechanism 3, on the base plate 116, for receiving a dispensed tablet in use.

In more detail, the top plate 101 includes an aperture 101a, and the upper guide plate 104 includes an aperture 104a. As shown in Figures 10a and 10b, the apertures 101a and 104a may be circular holes. The apertures 101a and 104a are aligned with one another and configured to hold a tube or cartridge 114 containing a plurality of tablets 22. The dimensions of the apertures 101a and 104a correspond to the external dimensions of the tube or cartridge 114.

In this embodiment, the tube or cartridge 114 may be a commercially-available offthe-shelf tube of denture cleaning tablets. One advantage of this is that any health and safety notices on the tube may remain visible to the user during use of the device.

A further aperture 108a is provided in the lower guide plate 108, through which, in use, tablets may be dispensed into the glass 14 or the like, one tablet at a time.

The aperture 108a is offset relative to the aperture 104a in the upper guide plate 104.

The carrier plate 106 includes an aperture 106a that is slightly smaller than apertures 101a and 104a, and shaped to receive a tablet 22 from the tube/cartridge 114. The carrier plate 106 is manually moveable, in a linearlyreciprocating manner, between a first position (a tablet-receiving position, as shown in Figure 10a) in which the aperture 106a is aligned with the aperture 104a in the upper guide plate 104, and a second position (a tablet-dispensing position, as shown in Figure 10b) in which the aperture 106a is aligned with the aperture 108a in the lower guide plate 108.

A pair of compressible springs 110 act as biasing means between the carrier plate 106 and the back plate 102. When at rest, the carrier plate 106 is biased into the first position, in which its aperture 106a is aligned with the aperture 104a of the upper guide plate 104. When a pushing force is applied to the carrier plate 106 (via the handle 112), against the action of the springs 110, the carrier plate 106 moves into the second position, in which its aperture 106a is aligned with the aperture 108a of the lower guide plate 108. When the pushing force is removed from the carrier plate 106, the action of the springs 110 causes the carrier plate 106 to return to the first position.

As shown in Figure 10a, in the first position, in which the aperture 106a of the carrier plate 106 is aligned with the aperture 104a of the upper guide plate 104, the lowermost tablet 22a in the tube/cartridge 114 falls through the aperture 104a, into the aperture 106a in the carrier plate 106. Whilst in the aperture 106a in the carrier plate 106, the tablet 22a is supported by the lower guide plate 108 - until, in use, it is moved to a position in which it can fall through the aperture 108a in the lower guide plate 108.

To cause the tablet 22a to be dispensed, the user pushes the carrier plate 106 using handle 112, moving the carrier plate 106 into the position shown in Figure 10b and causing the springs 110 to be compressed. When the aperture 106a in the carrier plate comes into alignment with the aperture 108a in the lower guide plate 108, the tablet 22a drops through the aperture 108a and is dispensed into the glass 14 or the like, in the space 21 beneath the dispensing mechanism 3.

When the handle 112 is released the carrier plate 106 returns to its resting position, illustrated in Figure 10a, by the action ofthe springs 110.

A constraint (such as an upturned lip from the lower guide plate 108) may be provided along the front edge of the carrier plate 106 (i.e. along the opposite edge of the carrier plate 106 from the springs 110) to restrain the extent of the motion of the carrier plate 106 to the positions shown in Figures 10a and 10b (i.e. preventing the carrier plate 106 from coming forwards, out of the channel formed by the guide plates 104, 108).

The base 116 (or one or more feet thereof) may be rubberised or otherwise treated to cause the device 100 to grip the surface (e.g. a kitchen worktop or bedside table) on which it is placed, to provide sufficient frictional resistance to counteract the force exerted by the user when pushing the carrier plate 106.

Fourth embodiment, incorporating a rotating carrier plate

Figures 11a and 11b illustrate a further embodiment of a tablet dispenser device 150 having a manually-operated dispensing mechanism 4. The casing 152 has some features in common with the dispenser device 100 of Figures 9, 10a and 10b, including an upper guide plate 154 and a lower guide plate 158 (both of which are static). The upper guide plate 154 includes an aperture 154a configured to receive a tube/cartridge 114 containing a plurality of tablets 22. The lower guide plate 158 includes an aperture 158a through which tablets are dispensed, one at a time. An aperture-containing carrier plate 156 is mounted between the upper guide plate 154 and the lower guide plate 158. In this case, however, the carrier plate 156 is rotatable, rather than linearly-reciprocating.

In more detail, the carrier plate 156 is circular and manually rotatable about an axis 162. The carrier plate 156 has an outer edge 157 which protrudes through an opening 153 in the casing 152. The protruding outer edge 157 of the carrier plate 156 is pushable by the user, to cause the carrier plate 156 to rotate. The outer edge 157 may be knurled or provided with ridges or other gripping means, to facilitate the user rotating the carrier plate 156. As illustrated in Figures 11a and 11b, the outer edge 157 of the carrier plate 156 may be thinner than the central part of the carrier plate 156.

The upper guide plate 154, moveable carrier plate 156 and lower guide plate 158 together form the dispensing mechanism 4, which is supported in an elevated position such that a glass 14 or the like can be accommodated in the space 21 beneath the dispensing mechanism 3, on the base plate 116, for receiving a dispensed tablet in use.

As shown in plan view in Figure 12, the carrier plate 156 may have a plurality of apertures 156a-e, for receiving tablets 22 one at a time from the tube/cartridge 114 and conveying them, by rotation of the carrier plate, to the aperture 158a in the lower guide plate 158, through which they are dispensed. Although the illustrated carrier plate 156 includes a plurality of apertures, in alternative embodiments only one aperture may be provided.

Whilst in the apertures in the carrier plate 156, the tablets are supported by the lower guide plate 158 - until, in use, they are moved to a position in which they can fall through the aperture 158a in the lower guide plate 158.

In general, during use, the extent of rotation, in degrees, of the carrier plate required to dispense a single tablet may be given by 3607η, where n is the number of tablet-containing apertures in the carrier plate. (This assumes that the apertures are equally spaced, as illustrated, and that any apertures after the receiving position and before the dispensing position are occupied by a tablet.)

The rotating carrier plate 156 may be provided with a detent mechanism configured to divide rotation of the carrier plate 156 into discrete increments, each corresponding to the extent of rotation required to cause a single tablet to be dispensed.

The base 116 (or one or more feet thereof) may be rubberised or otherwise treated to cause the device 150 to grip the surface (e.g. a kitchen worktop or bedside table) on which it is placed, to provide sufficient frictional resistance to counteract the force exerted by the user when pushing (rotating) the carrier plate 156.

Motorised variant of the third embodiment

Figure 13 schematically illustrates a tablet dispenser device 200 that is a motorised variant of the device 100 of the above-described third embodiment. The dispensing mechanism 5 of the motorised device 200 includes a motor-driven cam 204 arranged to rotate around an axis 206 and to act against the handle 112 (which essentially acts as a cam follower). The motor-driven cam 204 may be activated by a user (e.g. by pressing a button), upon which it performs a single rotation. The extended part of the motorised cam 204 is of sufficient length to move the carrier plate 106 from the first position, in which aperture 106a is aligned with the aperture 104a of the upper internal plate 104, to the second position, in which aperture 106a is aligned with the aperture 108a of the lower internal plate 108, thereby causing the tablet 22a to be dispensed with minimal action on the part of the user. The carrier plate 106 is returned to the first position by the action ofthe springs 110.

Alternative variants may use other motorised, electromechanical or electromagnetic arrangements to move the carrier plate between the first and second positions. For example, a crank arrangement may be used, to convert the rotational motion of a motor into linear motion ofthe carrier plate.

Motorised variant of the fourth embodiment

Figure 14 schematically illustrates a tablet dispenser device 250 that is a motorised variant of the device 150 of the above-described fourth embodiment. In this variant, within the dispensing mechanism 6, the manually-rotatable carrier plate 156 of the above-described fourth embodiment is replaced by a motor-driven rotatable carrier plate 256 (in this case having a single aperture 256a for conveying a tablet).

The rotatable carrier plate 256 is driven by an electric motor 254 having an axle 255, arranged to rotate the plate 256 about axis 162. It will be appreciated that the illustration of the motor 254 is merely schematic, and that a suitable support, housing, etc. would be provided in practice.

The motor 254 may be activated by a user (e.g. by pressing a button), upon which, in this example, it causes the carrier plate 256 to perform a single rotation, thereby conveying a tablet from under the cartridge/tube 114 to the aperture 158a, through which the tablet is dispensed into the glass 14 or the like. It will be appreciated that, if the carrier plate 256 has a plurality of tablet-containing apertures, as in the manual variant of Figure 12, then the motor 254 need only cause the carrier plate 256 to perform a partial rotation to dispense a single tablet.

It will also be appreciated that, in this variant, the carrier plate 256 does not require the knurled or ridged edge features 157 of the manual variant. Moreover, in this variant, the carrier plate 256 is entirely contained with the device 250, rather than protruding through an opening in the casing.

Electrical circuitry

Figure 15a is a schematic illustration of electrical circuitry for use in any of the above-described motorised embodiments or variants. As shown, the electrical circuitry may include a power supply 300, a switch 302 and a drive motor 304.

As discussed in relation to the embodiment of Figures 1-3, the power supply 300 may comprise a battery, a USB port, or any other power supply such as a mains power supply (in any combination).

The switch 302 may be in the form of a button, as in the embodiments of Figures 1 and 5 (e.g. button 18b).

As in the above-described motorised embodiments or variants, the drive motor 304 is operable to cause a tablet to be dispensed (see e.g. motors 24, 64 and 254).

In this illustration, operation of the drive motor 304 is directly dependent on the user actuating the switch/button 302 (e.g. holding the button down for an appropriate length of time). Such actuation of the switch/button 302 causes power to be transferred from the power supply 300 to the drive motor 304.

Figure 15b illustrates an enhanced version of the circuitry of Figure 15a, including a microprocessor 301 programmed to drive the drive motor 304 a pre-determined amount when the switch/button 302 is actuated. Accordingly, the user need only touch the switch/button 302 for a short or unspecified length of time. The microprocessor 301 causes power to be transferred from the power supply 300 to the drive motor 304 for an appropriate length of time, so as to cause a single tablet to be dispensed.

The switch/button 302 may be replaced by one or more sensors. For example, a sensor may be arranged to detect the introduction of a glass into the space beneath the dispensing mechanism. In response to the sensor detecting the introduction of a glass, the microprocessor 301 may automatically cause a single tablet to be dispensed.

Optionally an indicator display 306 may be provided. The indicator display 306 is connected to, and under the control of, the microprocessor 301, and may be located on the outside of the dispenser device. The indicator display 306 may comprise, for example, one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs) or liquid crystal display (LCD) elements, or an array of LED or LCD pixels. The indicator display 306 may for example provide the user with a visual indication in respect of one or more of:

the number of tablets remaining in the dispenser;

the number of tablets dispensed by the dispenser;

a fault with the dispenser (e.g. a jammed tablet);

power supply information (e.g. battery level, recharging status, mains power supply status, etc.);

an alert to prompt the user to use the dispenser (e.g. a daily reminder);

an alert to prompt the user to replenish the tablets.

The microprocessor may also be provided with means for transmitting data over a network, e.g. to automatically order a replacement cartridge of tablets when the number of tablets remaining in the present cartridge drops below a threshold.

Possible modifications and alternative embodiments

Detailed embodiments have been described above, together with some possible modifications and alternatives. As those skilled in the art will appreciate, a number of additional modifications and alternatives can be made to the above embodiments whilst still benefiting from the inventions embodied herein.

For example, as illustrated in Figure 8, in variants of the above embodiments a diagonal chute 90 may be provided, e.g. supported by a wall 92 of the device behind the glass 14, for conveying the tablet 22a being dispensed into the glass

14. By virtue of such a chute 90, if the glass 14 contains water when the tablet 22a is dispensed, then, when the tablet enters the glass, splashes or effervescent solution from the glass are prevented from reaching (and potentially dissolving) the remaining tablets in the device.

In the embodiment of Figures 1-3, the rotating element comprises a pushing member 28 arranged to push the tablet 22a to be dispensed. However, in alternative embodiments the rotating element may be arranged to pull the tablet to be dispensed (e.g. by hooking around the tablet to be dispensed and then pulling it sideways).

With any of the above embodiments or variants in which a motor is employed, step-down gearing may be provided between the motor and the axle connected to the dispensing mechanism (e.g. axle 26 in Figures 2 and 3, axle 255 in Figure 14, etc.). Such gearing may be particularly useful as, when dispensing a single tablet, the axle connected to the dispensing mechanism may only be required to perform a single revolution or a partial revolution, and it can be difficult to control the rotor of an electric motor to perform only a single revolution or a partial revolution itself. Moreover, step-down gearing also slows the rotation of the axle connected to the dispensing mechanism, and also provides greater torque, thereby enabling the tablet on which the dispensing mechanism is acting to be dispensed (e.g. pushed) in a steady, controlled manner.

With any of the above embodiments or variants in which a motor is employed, in other variants the motor may be replaced by an axle that extends through the outer casing of the device, attached to a manually-turnable handle or knob, the operation of which causes tablets to be dispensed.

In the above embodiments the support structure of the dispensing mechanism is formed by certain walls of the device. However, in alternative embodiments the support structure of the dispensing mechanism may be provided by one or more legs, or a stand arrangement.

In some of the illustrated embodiments a motor is shown as being part of the dispensing mechanism, above the glass. However, the motor should not be considered as an essential part of the dispensing mechanism per se, and need not be positioned above the glass. For example, with the embodiment illustrated in Figure 2, the motor 24 could alternatively be located alongside the USB port 29b, behind the glass 14. The dispensing mechanism would still comprise the pushing member 28, though, and the pushing member 28 would still be positioned above the glass 14.

In the above-described embodiments, the cartridge containing the plurality of tablets is mounted vertically, above the dispensing mechanism, such that, as one tablet is dispensed, the other tablets move downwards, towards the dispensing mechanism, solely under the effect of gravity. However, in alternative embodiments, a compressed spring or other urging means can be provided within the cartridge, at the end of the cartridge distal from the dispensing mechanism, to 5 urge the tablets in the stack towards the dispensing mechanism. This removes the need for the cartridge to be mounted vertically, above the dispensing mechanism. For example, a variant of the embodiment of Figures 5-7 may be realised in which the cartridge is mounted horizontally, feeding the tablets sideways towards the wheel-like member of the dispensing mechanism.

Claims (44)

1. A table-top device for dispensing a tablet, the device comprising: means for retaining a plurality of tablets;

a dispensing mechanism comprising means for moving a said tablet and thereby dispensing the tablet into a glass or the like; and a support structure configured to support the dispensing mechanism such that said glass or the like can be located below the dispensing mechanism for receiving the tablet.

2. The device according to claim 1, wherein the means for retaining the plurality of tablets is configured to hold the tablets in a stack.

3. The device according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the means for retaining the plurality of tablets comprises a cartridge, or means for receiving a cartridge.

4. The device according to claim 3, wherein the cartridge comprises an opening at an end proximal to the dispensing mechanism, and means for holding a tablet within the opening such that the dispensing mechanism can act on the tablet and remove the tablet from the cartridge.

5. The device according to claim 4, wherein the means for holding comprises an arm extending from a sidewall of the cartridge, across at least part of the width of the cartridge;

and wherein the opening is defined by a gap between the arm and the sidewall, through which gap the tablet passes when being dispensed.

6. The device according to claim 5, wherein the arm extends across the full width of the cartridge.

7. The device according to claim 6, wherein the arm is attached at both of its ends to the cartridge.

8. The device according to claim 5, wherein the arm is a first arm, wherein the cartridge further comprises a second arm extending from another part of the sidewall, and wherein the second arm is arranged to provide a space between the inner ends of the first and second arms and, in conjunction with the first arm, to support the tablet.

9. The device according to any preceding claim, wherein the dispensing mechanism comprises a rotating element arranged to move the tablet to be dispensed sideways.

10. The device according to claim 9, wherein the rotating element comprises a pushing member arranged to push the tablet.

11. The device according to any of claims 1 to 8, wherein the dispensing mechanism comprises a non-rotating element arranged to push or pull the tablet sideways.

12. The device according to claim 10 or claim 11, wherein the thickness of the pushing member is equal to or less than the thickness of the tablet.

13. The device according to claim 10 or claim 12 when dependent on claim 2, wherein the pushing member is arranged to rotate about an axis parallel to the stack of tablets.

14. The device according to any of claims 10 to 13 when dependent on claim 5, wherein the pushing member is arranged to push the tablet through the gap.

15. The device according to any of claims 10, 12, 13 and 14, wherein the pushing member is cam-like.

16. The device according to claim 9, wherein the rotating element comprises a wheel-like member having a recess in its outer edge for holding the tablet and conveying the tablet in an arc.

17. The device according to claim 16, wherein the depth of the recess is equal to or less than the thickness of the tablet.

18. The device according to claim 16 or claim 17, further comprising an arcuate surround disposed around at least part of the wheel-like member, for constraining the tablet in the recess during rotation of the wheel-like member.

19. The device according to any of claims 16 to 18 when dependent on claim 2, wherein the wheel-like member is arranged to rotate about an axis perpendicular to the stack of tablets.

20. The device according to any of claims 16 to 19 when dependent on claim 8, wherein the wheel-like member is arranged to act through the space between the inner ends of the first and second arms to convey the tablet away from the cartridge.

21. The device according to any of claims 1 to 4, wherein the dispensing mechanism comprises a carrier plate having an aperture, the carrier plate being adapted to receive the tablet in the aperture and to move the tablet into a dispensing position.

22. The device according to claim 21, wherein the carrier plate is arranged to move in a reciprocating manner between a first position in which it receives the tablet in the aperture, and a second position in which it dispenses the tablet.

23. The device according to claim 22, further comprising biasing means arranged to return the carrier plate from the second position to the first position.

24. The device according to claim 23, wherein the biasing means comprises one or more springs.

25. The device according to claim 21, wherein the carrier plate is arranged to rotate and thereby move the aperture from a first position in which the aperture receives the tablet, to a subsequent position in which the tablet is dispensed from the aperture.

26. The device according to any of claims 21 to 25, further comprising a static lower plate above which the carrier plate is mounted, wherein the lower plate is arranged to support the tablet between being received by the carrier plate and being dispensed.

27. The device according to claim 26, wherein the lower plate has an aperture through which the tablet is dispensed.

28. The device according to claim 27, further comprising a static upper plate mounted above the carrier plate, the upper plate having an aperture through which the tablet is received by the carrier plate, the aperture in the upper plate being offset relative to the aperture in the lower plate, the carrier plate being configured to move the tablet from a position aligned with the aperture in the upper plate to a position aligned with the aperture in the lower plate.

29. The device according to any preceding claim, further comprising a diagonal chute for the tablet to travel along whilst being dispensed.

30. The device according to any preceding claim, further comprising a base for supporting the glass or the like.

31. The device according to claim 30, wherein the base is pivotally mounted.

32. The device according to any preceding claim, further comprising a motor operable to drive the dispensing mechanism.

33. The device according to claim 32 when dependent on any of claims 22 to 24, further comprising a cam or crank driven by the motor and arranged to push the carrier plate.

34. The device according to claim 32 or claim 33, further comprising processing means configured to control the operation of the motor.

35. The device according to claim 34, further comprising electronic display means controlled by the processing means, for indicating one or more of:

the number of tablets remaining in the dispenser;

the number of tablets dispensed by the dispenser;

a fault with the dispenser;

power supply information;

an alert to prompt the user to use the dispenser;

an alert to prompt the user to replenish the tablets.

36. The device according to any preceding claim, wherein the tablets are denture cleaning tablets.

37. A method of dispensing a tablet, comprising using the device according to any preceding claim.

38. A cartridge for containing a plurality of tablets to be dispensed by a dispensing device having a dispensing mechanism, the cartridge comprising an opening at one end, and means for holding a tablet within the opening such that the dispensing mechanism can act on the tablet and remove the tablet from the cartridge.

39. The cartridge according to claim 38, wherein the means for holding comprises an arm extending from a sidewall of the cartridge, across at least part of the width of the cartridge;

wherein the opening is defined by a gap between the arm and the sidewall, through which gap a tablet passes when being dispensed.

40. The cartridge according to claim 39, wherein the arm extends across the full width of the cartridge.

41. The cartridge according to claim 40, wherein the arm is attached at both its ends to the cartridge.

42. The cartridge according to claim 39, wherein the arm is a first arm, wherein the cartridge further comprises a second arm extending from another part of the sidewall, and wherein the second arm is arranged to provide a space between the inner ends of the first and second arms and, in conjunction with the first arm, to hold a tablet.

43. The cartridge according to any of claims 38 to 42, containing a plurality of tablets.

44. The cartridge according to any of claims 38 to 43, wherein the tablets are denture cleaning tablets.