A network-controlled dispensing device is provided. The dispensing device may include a display, a scannable device identifier (e.g., QR code, RFID tag, etc.) that uniquely identifies the dispensing device to a scanning device, and a network device to establish communications with a server based, at least in part, on the scannable device identifier. The dispenser includes a controller to control dispensing of a product based on one or more product selections received from the server. The controller generates a dispense code in response to receiving one or more product selections from the server and presents the dispense code on the display. If the code received from the server matches the dispense code, the controller dispenses a product based on the one or more product selections received from the server.

A wearable payment device, such as a finger ring worn by a user, communicates payment data to a payment reader that uses the payment data in order to request a payment transaction. Such wearable payment device may be conveniently carried by and accessible to the user such that utilization of the payment device for the payment transaction is less burdensome for the user, thereby encouraging use of the payment device for payments. Indeed, in some cases, such as when the payment device is implemented as a finger ring or other type of jewelry, the user may be encouraged to carry the payment device in an exposed manner such that it is readily available for the payment transaction without the user having to search in a wallet, pocket, or purse.

A wearable payment device, such as a finger ring worn by a user, communicates payment data to a payment reader that uses the payment data in order to request a payment transaction. Such wearable payment device may be conveniently carried by and accessible to the user such that utilization of the payment device for the payment transaction is less burdensome for the user, thereby encouraging use of the payment device for payments. Indeed, in some cases, such as when the payment device is implemented as a finger ring or other type of jewelry, the user may be encouraged to carry the payment device in an exposed manner such that it is readily available for the payment transaction without the user having to search in a wallet, pocket, or purse.

An access control system includes an identification unit having an infrared (IR) transmitter, an IR detector that receives reflected IR radiation from one or more body parts of the user, one or more signal processing components to determine a temperature of the user, a hand sanitization unit that sanitizes hands of the user when the hands are placed in a palm placement area, and an identification device to receive identification information of the user. The access control system also includes a processor that receives the reading of the user, instructs a door lock controller to unlock a door when the temperature is below the threshold temperature or the temperature is within the temperature range. The processor sends an alert when the temperature is above the threshold temperature or the temperature is outside the temperature range, and sends identification information of the user to one or more network devices.

A system can include a processor and a computer-readable storage device storing instructions which, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to perform operations. The operations can include receiving an identification of a local device having a control module that manages a reader component and a locking mechanism and transmitting an authorized list to the local device that identifies authorized users that can gain access to the local device via the locking mechanism through interacting with the reader component. The control module on the local device can manage multiple functions of the local device including management of the reader component and the locking mechanism.

Systems and methods are provided for managing medical devices. In one embodiment, medical device usage data is stored on the medical device to indicate the usage, health, and alarm or error codes. The usage data is electronically read and assessed against one or more thresholds to determine if the medical device is operating properly and, hence, can be inventoried for reuse, or is need of service or repair. Other embodiments are also disclosed wherein the medical device wirelessly scan its environment to ensure, for example, the device is used with approved accessories or components and personnel. In yet other embodiments, medical devices are provided that can configure themselves for operation by scanning any connected components for component-specific operational data. The operational data is then used to configure the medical device to operate with the component.

A blending system and method are described for preparing a blended mixture. The blending system includes a control system having at least a processor, and a computer-readable memory, wherein the memory contains software configured to receive a formula defining instructions for preparing a blended mixture. The blending system further includes: a plurality of receptacles to organize and store blending dye containers, the blending dye containers containing blending materials; a pumping system that pumps blending materials into a mixing bowl, wherein the pumping system is controlled by the control system; and a user input device that receives input regarding the preparation of the blended mixture. The control system monitors a weight on the scale as blending materials are added to a mixing bowl on the scale, wherein a desired batch size of the blended mixture is prepared and added to the mixing bowl on the scale.

An asset identification system includes a tool having an axial dimension and a radial dimension. There are three RFID devices located on the tool, and the three RFID devices are located at equal angles with respect to each other in the radial dimension. The system further includes a storage apparatus configured to store the tool, and an RFID reader. At least one of the three RFID devices located on the tool is readable by the RFID reader regardless of the radial orientation of the tool with respect to the RFID reader.

An example system can include a battery-powered trash compactor or storage device that performs operations including receiving identification information via an external entity from a reader component. The reader component is connected to a control module that manages sensor components or other functions of the battery-powered storage device. The control module also controls a locking mechanism and reader component. Based on the identification information, via the control module, the battery-powered storage device unlocks the locking mechanism.

A system and method for tracking marine equipment is provided. Generally, the system and method of the present disclosure are designed to generate indicia corresponding to the inventory level of marine equipment used for a particular marine activity. To facilitate the assignment of indicia reflecting the inventory level of marine equipment used for a marine activity, the system and method of the present disclosure uses a plurality of equipment profiles having a defined lower limit and quantity associated with each piece of marine equipment. The lower limit may be manually input or automatically generated. The quantity may be tracked by the system using equipment transmitters and equipment sensors. In a preferred embodiment, the indicia indicate whether the quantity of a piece of marine equipment has fallen below a certain specified level as defined by the user. Users may purchase new marine equipment from third-party retailers via the user interface.