Test strip dispenser

Abstract

In one aspect, a method of dispensing a test strip is provided in which the dispensed test strip remains stationary while the inner housing moves within an outer housing. In another embodiment, a test strip dispenser is provided that dispenses one test strip at a time. The test strip dispenser includes a movable inner housing nested inside an outer housing. A test strip dispensing system is also described.

1 - 16 . (canceled) 
     
     
         17 . A system for dispensing test strips, the system comprising:
 a plurality of test strips;   a test strip dispenser comprising:
 an inner housing having an interior volume to store the plurality of test strips, the inner housing having an aperture through which a test strip is dispensed, the inner housing including a groove; 
 a spring that biases the inner housing in a first direction; and 
 an outer housing having an opening in substantial alignment with the aperture of the inner housing to allow for passage of the test strip, the outer housing having a guide member that mates with the groove of the inner housing so that the test strip remains stationary when the inner housing is moved along the guide member of the outer housing in a direction generally opposite the first direction; and 
   a meter comprising:
 a strip port configured to engage the inner housing of the test strip dispenser; and 
 a strip port connector disposed in the strip port so that when the strip port connector engages the test strip, the inner housing of the dispenser is moved along the guide member. 
   
     
     
         18 . The system of  claim 17 , wherein the strip port protrudes from a proximal end of the test meter and is configured to engage the test strip dispenser in one orientation. 
     
     
         19 . The system of  claim 18 , wherein the strip port comprises a D shaped member. 
     
     
         20 . The system of  claim 17 , further comprising a spring that biases the plurality of test strips in a direction orthogonal to the first direction.