Method and apparatus for dispensing diagnostic test strips

摘要

An apparatus for storing and dispensing a test strip includes a container configured to store a stack of test strips. The container maintains appropriate environmental conditions, such as humidity, for storing the test strips. An engaging member is disposed in the container and is adapted to contact one test strip of the stack of test strips. An actuator actuates the engaging member to dispense the one test strip from the container. Since one test strip is dispensed at a time, the remaining test strips are not handled by the user. Accordingly, the unused test strips remain free of contaminants such as naturally occurring oils on the user's hand.

主权项

1. An apparatus for storing and dispensing test strips, comprising:
a container configured to store a stack of test strips; a lid connected to the container by a hinge; and a linkage assembly operatively connected to the lid, the linkage assembly comprising a contacting member for contacting an edge of ne test strip of the stack of test strips; wherein when the lid is opened, a test strip is dispensed; wherein members of the linkage assembly remain in contact with each other during operation of the apparatus; wherein movement of the contacting member is guided by lateral contact between the linkage assembly and a wall of the container during dispensing of the test strip; wherein the linkage assembly comprises a lifting member, said lifting member comprising the contacting member; and wherein the linkage assembly comprises:
a first arm member connected to the lid;a second arm member hingedly connected to the first arm member; anda third arm member hingedly connected to the second arm member, the third arm member comprising the lifting member and contacting the one test strip so that the test strip is dispensed when the lid is opened.