Pill counting machine

Claim 1

A combined counter and dispenser for a plurality of discrete objects comprising: a. a first elongated trough to receive a quantity of the said objects, said trough having an open exit end thereon, b. vibration imparting means coupled to the first trough to advance the objects therealong, c. a second elongated trough having a substantially arcuate cross-sectional shape and an open exit end thereon, disposed so as to receive the objects coming from the first elongated trough, d. a second vibration imparting means coupled to the second trough to advance the objects therealong, e. elongated openings in the bottom portion of the second trough disposed in the path of the objects, whereby dust or particulate matter on the objects may be removed from the second trough, f. a counter assembly including a source of light which generates a beam directed across the path of the objects as they leave the exit end of the second trough, a photosensitive device positioned adjacent to the second trough exit end, g. a manually operated start means for said counter, said start means including a first lever secured to a start handle, a magnetically releasable latch armature for latching the first lever into a start position, a bell crank coupled to the first lever including a first and a second arm, and a switch connected in series between a source of electrical power and a clutch winding in the counting means, said switch positioned in line with the second arm for actuation when the bell crank is operated by the start handle, and h. an electric counter coupled to the photosensitive device.