A47F2003/066

ITEM DISPENSING APPARATUS
20180065652 · 2018-03-08 ·

Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to a dispenser configured for securely storing a plurality of items within a cart and providing access to a subset of the plurality of items to authorized users. According to various embodiments, the dispenser generally includes a housing defining an interior portion dimensioned to receive a storage cart having an array of receptacles each configured to hold one or more items, a laterally sliding access door configured to provide restricted access to the cart stored within the dispenser, and an item access mechanism configured to provide selective access to a subset of the plurality of items stored within the cart. The dispenser additionally comprises a cart guide mechanism and a cart locking mechanism configured to guide the cart into the housing and to secure the cart in an appropriate location within the housing for use with the item access mechanism.

Shelf-stocking unit

A cart system is provided that includes a storage cart, a track, and, optionally, a shelf unit. The cart system is designed to allow a user to quickly and easily restock depleted products provided to consumers via the shelf unit. When the storage cart is coupled to the track, the motion of the cart may be guided or restricted by the track. Generally, the track may be provided with at least one linear portion and at least one T-shaped portion that define a predetermined path about which the storage cart may travel. Further, when coupled to the track, the storage cart may rotate such that the user can access the shelf unit or stow the cart substantially flush against or near the shelf unit.