Operating device, beverage supply device, and operating method

Abstract

To provide an operation device which can be hygienically operated and can suppress erroneous determination on whether or not an operation is performed.SOLUTION: An operation device comprises: a non-contact type operation unit which includes an optical sensor that emits detection light in a prescribed wavelength and outputs a detection signal in the magnitude according to the light reception state of light in the prescribed wavelength; an operation determination unit which determines that an operation is performed to the non-contact type operation unit when the magnitude of the detection signal is equal to or greater than a determination threshold; and an erroneous determination suppression unit which suppresses erroneous determination in the operation determination unit. The erroneous determination suppression unit increases the determination threshold in a case where a difference between the magnitude of the detection signal in the standby time of the operation and the determination threshold is less than a change reference value.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 13

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an operating device, a beverage supply device, and an operating method.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, a beverage supply device for supplying beverages has been known (see, for example, Patent Document 1). The beverage supply device described in Patent Document 1 includes eight beverage selection buttons, a display unit, and a menu switching button. The beverage selection buttons are arranged in four on each of the left and right sides of the display unit. The display unit is composed of a liquid crystal panel and displays information indicating the beverages that can be selected by operating each beverage selection button. Each time the menu switching button is operated, the beverage supply device displays eight main menus or eight sub-menus on the display unit and assigns a main menu or a sub-menu to each beverage selection button, so that 16 types of beverages can be supplied.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] An object of the present disclosure is to provide an operating device, a beverage supply device, and an operating method that can be hygienically operated and suppress misjudgment as to whether an operation has been performed.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] The operating device of the present disclosure comprises: a non-contact operating unit having a photosensor that emits detection light of a predetermined wavelength and outputs a detection signal of a magnitude corresponding to the reception state of the light of the predetermined wavelength; an operation determination unit that determines that an operation has been performed on the non-contact operating unit when the magnitude of the detection signal is equal to or greater than a determination threshold; and a false determination suppression unit that suppresses false determinations in the operation determination unit, wherein the false determination suppression unit increases the determination threshold when the difference between the magnitude of the detection signal and the determination threshold during standby for the operation is less than a change criterion value. Furthermore, if the difference is less than the change criterion value, and the value obtained by adding the first increment value to the judgment threshold is equal to or greater than the set upper limit value of the judgment threshold, the misjudgment suppression unit changes the judgment threshold to the set upper limit value, and instructs the notification unit to notify at least one of the following: that there is a possibility of misjudgment of the operation when changing the judgment threshold to the set upper limit value, and that it is urged to block out ambient light. . The operating device of the present disclosure comprises: a non-contact operating unit having a photosensor that emits detection light of a predetermined wavelength and outputs a detection signal of a magnitude corresponding to the reception state of the light of the predetermined wavelength; an operation determination unit that determines that an operation has been performed on the non-contact operating unit when the magnitude of the detection signal is equal to or greater than a determination threshold; a misjudgment suppression unit that suppresses misjudgments in the operation determination unit; and a plurality of the non-contact operating units used for stepwise operation. The misjudgment suppression unit increases the determination threshold when the difference between the magnitude of the detection signal and the determination threshold during standby for the operation is less than a change criterion value. The operation determination unit and the misjudgment suppression unit perform processing based on the detection signal from the non-contact operating unit that is the target of the operation, but do not perform processing based on the detection signal from the non-contact operating unit that is not the target of the operation. The operating device of the present disclosure includes a non-contact operating unit having a photosensor that emits detection light of a predetermined wavelength and outputs a detection signal of a magnitude corresponding to the light reception state of the light of the predetermined wavelength; an operation determination unit that determines that an operation has been performed on the non-contact operating unit when the magnitude of the detection signal is equal to or greater than a determination threshold; and a misjudgment suppression unit that suppresses misjudgments in the operation determination unit, wherein the misjudgment suppression unit increases the determination threshold when the difference between the magnitude of the detection signal and the determination threshold during standby for the operation is less than a change reference value, and the photosensor is positioned such that the direction in which the detection light is emitted and the direction in which the light-receiving surface faces are inclined with respect to the virtual movement trajectory of the user's fingers or object when the operation is performed.

[0006] The beverage supply device of this disclosure comprises an operating device and a beverage supply unit that supplies beverages in response to operations on the operating device, wherein the operating device comprises a non-contact operating unit having a photosensor that emits detection light of a predetermined wavelength and outputs a detection signal of a magnitude corresponding to the reception state of the light of the predetermined wavelength, an operation determination unit that determines that an operation has been performed on the non-contact operating unit when the magnitude of the detection signal is equal to or greater than a determination threshold, and a misjudgment suppression unit that suppresses misjudgments in the operation determination unit, wherein the misjudgment suppression unit increases the determination threshold when the difference between the magnitude of the detection signal and the determination threshold during standby for the operation is less than a change criterion value Furthermore, if the difference is less than the change threshold value and the magnitude of the detection signal during standby is greater than or equal to the supply interruption threshold, the misjudgment suppression unit performs at least one of the following: a process that prevents the operation determination unit from performing the operation determination process, and a process that causes the notification unit to notify that the supply of the beverage corresponding to the operation will be interrupted. .

[0007] The operation method of the present disclosure is an operation method performed by a non-contact operation unit having a photosensor that emits detection light of a predetermined wavelength and outputs a detection signal of a magnitude corresponding to the reception state of the light of the predetermined wavelength; an operation determination unit that determines that an operation has been performed on the non-contact operation unit when the magnitude of the detection signal is equal to or greater than a determination threshold; and a false determination suppression unit that changes the determination threshold, wherein the false determination suppression unit increases the determination threshold when the difference between the magnitude of the detection signal and the determination threshold during the standby period for the operation is less than a change reference value. Furthermore, if the difference is less than the change criterion value and the value obtained by adding the first increment value to the judgment threshold is equal to or greater than the set upper limit value of the judgment threshold, the misjudgment suppression unit changes the judgment threshold to the set upper limit value, and when the judgment threshold is changed to the set upper limit value, the misjudgment suppression unit notifies the notification unit of at least one of the following: that there is a possibility of misjudgment of the operation, and that it is urged to block out ambient light. . The operation method of the present disclosure is an operation method performed by a non-contact operation unit having a photosensor that emits detection light of a predetermined wavelength and outputs a detection signal of a magnitude corresponding to the reception state of the light of the predetermined wavelength; an operation determination unit that determines that an operation has been performed on the non-contact operation unit when the magnitude of the detection signal is equal to or greater than a determination threshold; a false determination suppression unit that changes the determination threshold; and a plurality of the non-contact operation units used for stepwise operation, wherein the false determination suppression unit increases the determination threshold when the difference between the magnitude of the detection signal and the determination threshold during standby for the operation is less than a change reference value, and the operation determination unit and the false determination suppression unit perform processing based on the detection signal from the non-contact operation unit that is the target of the operation, but do not perform processing based on the detection signal from the non-contact operation unit that is not the target of the operation. The operation method of the present disclosure is an operation method performed by a non-contact operation unit having an optical sensor that emits detection light of a predetermined wavelength and outputs a detection signal of a magnitude corresponding to the light reception state of the light of the predetermined wavelength; an operation determination unit that determines that an operation has been performed on the non-contact operation unit when the magnitude of the detection signal is equal to or greater than a determination threshold; and a false determination suppression unit that changes the determination threshold, wherein the false determination suppression unit increases the determination threshold when the difference between the magnitude of the detection signal and the determination threshold during standby for the operation is less than a change reference value, and the optical sensor is positioned such that the direction in which the detection light is emitted and the direction in which the light-receiving surface faces are inclined with respect to the virtual movement trajectory of the user's fingers or object when the operation is performed. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the operating device, beverage supply device, and operating method of the present disclosure, hygienic operation can be achieved, and misjudgment as to whether an operation has been performed can be suppressed.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0009] [Figure 1] Front view of the beverage supply device according to the embodiment [Figure 2] Front view of the operating device according to the embodiment [Figure 3A] Cross-sectional view of the upper display body in a state where the movable shaft portion according to the embodiment is not pressed [Figure 3B] Cross-sectional view of the upper display body in a state where the movable shaft portion according to the embodiment is pressed [Figure 3C] Exploded perspective view of the upper display body in a state where the fixed shaft portion according to the embodiment is removed [Figure 3D] Exploded perspective view of the upper display body in a state where the cover according to the embodiment is removed [Figure 4A] Perspective view of the upper display portion according to the embodiment when viewed from the front [Figure 4B] Perspective view of the upper display portion when viewed from the rear in a state where the motor support plate according to the embodiment is open [Figure 5A] Schematic diagram of the upper menu label according to the embodiment [Figure 5B] Schematic diagram of the upper center menu label according to the embodiment [Figure 5C] Schematic diagram of the lower center menu label according to the embodiment [Figure 5D] Schematic diagram of the lower menu label according to the embodiment [Figure 6A] Front view of the upper operation portion according to the embodiment [Figure 6B] Vertical cross-sectional view of the upper operation portion according to the embodiment [Figure 7] Graph showing the relationship between the distance from the operation detection portion to the pseudo-operation portion and the voltage value of the detection signal according to the embodiment [Figure 8A]Schematic diagram showing the detection range of the operation detection unit when detection light is emitted forward in the horizontal direction according to the embodiment [Figure 8B] Schematic diagram showing the detection range of the operation detection unit when detection light is emitted obliquely downward and forward according to the embodiment [Figure 9] Block diagram of the operation device according to the embodiment [Figure 10] Perspective view of the container installation part and the beverage supply part according to the embodiment when viewed from the front side and the upper right oblique side [Figure 11] Block diagram of the beverage supply device according to the embodiment [Figure 12] Flowchart showing the setup process of the beverage supply device according to the embodiment [Figure 13] Flowchart showing the false determination suppression process according to the embodiment [Figure 14] Schematic diagram showing the state in which the standby message according to the embodiment is displayed on the operation device [Figure 15] Flowchart showing the beverage supply process according to the embodiment [Figure 16] Flowchart showing the beverage providing process according to the embodiment [Figure 17] Flowchart showing the beverage providing process according to the embodiment [Figure 18] Flowchart showing the beverage selection process according to the embodiment [Figure 19] Flowchart showing the beverage selection process according to the embodiment [Figure 20A] Schematic diagram showing the display content of the operation device in the beverage selection process according to the embodiment [Figure 20B] Schematic diagram showing the display content of the operation device in the beverage selection process according to the embodiment [Figure 20C] Schematic diagram showing the display content of the operation device in the beverage selection process according to the embodiment [Figure 20D] Schematic diagram showing the display content of the operation device in the beverage selection process according to the embodiment [Figure 20E] Schematic diagram showing the display content of the operation device in the beverage selection process according to the embodiment [Figure 20F]A schematic diagram showing the display content of the operating device in the beverage selection process according to the embodiment. [Figure 20G] A schematic diagram showing the display content of the operating device in the beverage selection process according to the embodiment. [Figure 20H] A schematic diagram showing the display content of the operating device in the beverage selection process according to the embodiment. [Figure 20I] A schematic diagram showing the display content of the operating device in the beverage selection process according to the embodiment. [Figure 20J] A schematic diagram showing the display content of the operating device in the beverage selection process according to the embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] [Embodiment] An embodiment of this disclosure will be described below.

[0011] <Configuration of the beverage supply system> First, let's explain the configuration of the beverage dispenser. Figure 1 is a front view of the beverage dispenser. In the following explanation, "front" refers to the side of the beverage dispenser that the user faces, and "rear" refers to the opposite side of the front. "Right" refers to the right side from the perspective of the user facing the beverage dispenser, and "left" refers to the opposite side of the right. "Top" refers to the top side when the beverage dispenser is installed on a horizontal plane, and "bottom" refers to the opposite side of the top.

[0012] As shown in Figure 1, the beverage dispenser 1 comprises a housing 10, an operating device 20, a container mounting section 30, and a beverage supply section 40. The beverage dispenser 1 supplies the beverage selected by the user through the operation of the operating device 20 to container C. Examples of container C include cups prepared by employees or managers (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "employees, etc.") of the store or facility where the beverage dispenser 1 is installed, or tumblers, water bottles, or cups brought in by the user of the beverage dispenser.

[0013] A container loading / unloading opening 10A is formed on the front of the housing 10 for loading and unloading container C into and out of the housing 10. A loading / unloading door 11 for opening and closing the container loading / unloading opening 10A is located on the front of the housing 10. The loading / unloading door 11 is arranged to be rotatable, for example, around its left end. An opening / closing sensor 12 is located above the container loading / unloading opening 10A. The opening / closing sensor 12 is composed of a distance measuring sensor and detects when an object (user's hand) is located within a predetermined range in front of the opening / closing sensor 12 and outputs a signal corresponding to the detection result.

[0014] The operating device 20 is located on the upper part of the front of the housing 10. The operating device 20 is used for selecting beverages. A detailed explanation of the operating device 20 will be given later.

[0015] The container mounting section 30 is located on the lower side inside the housing 10. Container C is installed in the container mounting section 30. A detailed explanation of the container mounting section 30 will be provided later.

[0016] The beverage supply unit 40 is located mainly in the upper part of the interior of the housing 10. The beverage supply unit 40 supplies the beverage selected by the user to the container C installed in the container installation unit 30. A detailed explanation of the beverage supply unit 40 will be given later.

[0017] Next, the detailed configuration of the operating device 20 will be described. First, regarding the configuration of the operating device 20 as seen by the user, Figure 2 is a front view of the operating device.

[0018] As shown in Figure 2, the operating device 20 comprises a surface plate 21, a display unit 22, and an operating unit 23.

[0019] The front panel 21 is fixed to cover an opening formed on the front of the housing 10. The front panel 21 includes upper display windows 211, upper central display window 212, lower central display window 213, and lower display window 214, each arranged in four rows horizontally. The upper display windows 211, upper central display window 212, lower central display window 213, and lower display window 214 are arranged from top to bottom in this order. Each display window 211, 212, 213, and 214 may or may not be closed by a transparent member. The display unit 22 and the operation unit 23 are fixed to the rear surface of the front panel 21.

[0020] The upper display window 211 and the upper central display window 212 are examples of the first opening of this disclosure. The lower central display window 213 is an example of the second opening of this disclosure. The lower display window 214 is an example of the third opening of this disclosure. The portion of the surface plate 21 including the upper display window 211 and the upper central display window 212 constitutes the first display body portion of this disclosure. The portion of the surface plate 21 including the lower central display window 213 constitutes the second display body portion of this disclosure. The portion of the surface plate 21 including the lower display window 214 constitutes the third display body portion of this disclosure.

[0021] The display unit 22 displays beverage menus and operating instructions for the beverage dispenser 1. The display unit 22 comprises an upper display unit 221, an upper central display unit 222, a lower central display unit 223, and a lower display unit 224. The upper display unit 221, upper central display unit 222, lower central display unit 223, and lower display unit 224 are arranged in this order from top to bottom.

[0022] The upper display unit 221 comprises an upper display body 221A. As will be described in detail later, the upper display body 221A is formed in a cylindrical shape. The upper display body 221A is arranged such that a portion of its circumferential region is exposed to the outside through four upper display windows 211. The upper central display unit 222, the lower central display unit 223, and the lower display unit 224 each comprise an upper central display body 222A, a lower central display body 223A, and a lower display body 224A, respectively. Each display body 222A, 223A, and 224A is also arranged such that a portion of its circumferential region is exposed to the outside through four display windows 212, 213, and 214, respectively, similar to the upper display body 221A. The upper display body 221A and the upper central display body 222A are examples of the first display body of this disclosure. The lower central display body 223A is an example of the second display body of this disclosure. The lower display element 224A is an example of the third display element of this disclosure.

[0023] As will be explained in more detail later, the upper display window 211 and the lower display window 214 display either operating instructions for the beverage dispenser 1 or a beverage menu. The upper center display window 212 displays a beverage menu. The lower center display window 213 displays either operating instructions for the beverage dispenser 1 or a selection of container sizes. When beverage menus are displayed in each of the display windows 211, 212, and 214, each display window will show a different menu.

[0024] The operating unit 23 comprises three upper operating units 231, four upper central operating units 232, four lower central operating units 233, and four lower operating units 234. The upper operating units 231, upper central operating units 232, lower central operating units 233, and lower operating units 234 are composed of non-contact operating units. The upper operating units 231 and upper central operating units 232 are examples of the first operating units of this disclosure. The lower central operating unit 233 is an example of the second operating unit of this disclosure. The lower operating unit 234 is an example of the third operating unit of this disclosure.

[0025] The upper control units 231 are located above the first, second, and fourth upper display windows 211 from the left, one at a time. The leftmost upper control unit 231 is operated when the user wants to receive a hot beverage. The second upper control unit 231 from the left is operated when the user wants to receive an iced beverage. The rightmost upper control unit 231 is operated when returning to the previous operation.

[0026] The upper central control unit 232 is located below each of the four upper display windows 211, one at a time. The upper central control unit 232 is operated when the user selects a beverage displayed in the upper display window 211 located above the upper central control unit 232. The lower central control unit 233 is located below each of the four upper central display windows 212, one at a time. The lower central control unit 233 is operated when the user selects a beverage displayed in the upper central display window 212 located above the lower central control unit 233. The lower control unit 234 is located below each of the four lower central display windows 213, one at a time. The lower control unit 234 is operated when the user selects a container size displayed in the lower central display window 213 located above the lower control unit 234. The lower control unit 234 is also operated when the user selects a beverage displayed in the lower display window 214 located below the lower control unit 234.

[0027] Each of the operating sections 231, 232, 233, and 234 is equipped with a simulated operating section 231A, 232A, 233A, and 234A. The simulated operating sections 231A to 234A are formed in a cylindrical shape, for example, to evoke the user's perception of a physical button. Above the simulated operating sections 231A, 232A, 233A, and 234A are operating detection sections 231B, 232B, 233B, and 234B. The operating detection sections 231B to 234B detect the user's finger located near the simulated operating sections 231A to 234A. In a front view, LEDs 231C, 232C, 233C, and 234C are positioned in the center of the simulated operating sections 231A, 232A, 233A, and 234A. LEDs 231C to 234C turn off when the respective control units 231 to 234, including LEDs 231C to 234C, are inoperable, blink when they are operable, and light up when they are operated.

[0028] Next, the configuration of each display unit 221 to 224 will be described. Since each display unit 221 to 224 has the same configuration, only the upper display unit 221 will be described. Figure 3A is a cross-sectional view of the upper display unit when the movable shaft is not pressed. Figure 3B is a cross-sectional view of the upper display unit when the movable shaft is pressed. Figure 3C is an exploded perspective view of the upper display unit with the fixed shaft removed. Figure 3D is an exploded perspective view of the upper display unit with the cover removed. Figure 4A is a perspective view of the upper display unit from the front. Figure 4B is a perspective view of the upper display unit from the rear with the motor support plate open.

[0029] As shown in Figures 3A, 3B, and 3C, the upper display body 221A, which constitutes the upper display unit 221, comprises a cylindrical body 241. A fixed shaft portion 242 is detachably fixed to one end of the body 241 in the axial direction. A driven gear 242A is arranged on the fixed shaft portion 242. On the side of the body 241 opposite to the driven gear 242A, a display control disk 242B, which constitutes an optical display control encoder, is arranged. Three (only two shown in Figure 3C) display control notches 242B1 are formed on the display control disk 242B. The three display control notches 242B1 are formed at 90° intervals along the outer circumference of the display control disk 242B. On the side of the display control disk 242B opposite to the driven gear 242A, a shaft body 242C is arranged.

[0030] A movable shaft portion 243 is located at the other axial end of the main body 241. The movable shaft portion 243 includes a movable body 243A, part of which is located inside the main body 241. The movable body 243A is configured to move along the axial direction of the main body 241. The movable body 243A is biased toward the other end (outside) of the main body 241 by a spring 240 located inside the main body 241. With this configuration, when the movable shaft portion 243 is pushed by an employee or the like from the state shown in Figure 3A, it moves inward from the main body 241, as shown in Figure 3B. An origin disk 243B, which constitutes an optical origin encoder, is located on the part of the movable body 243A that is located outside the main body 241. An origin notch 243B1 is formed in the origin disk 243B. The origin notch 243B1 is formed such that, for example, when the upper display unit 221A is viewed from one end in the axial direction, the origin notch 243B1 and the three display control notches 242B1 are arranged at 90° intervals along the outer circumference of the main body 241. The shaft 243C is located on the opposite side of the main body 241 from the origin disk 243B.

[0031] As shown in Figures 3C and 3D, a transparent cover 244 is detachably attached to the main body 241. The cover 244 has the function of protecting the menu label (see Figures 5A to 5D) which is placed between the cover 244 and the main body 241. As shown in Figure 3D, the main body 241 has four projections 241A that extend in the axial direction. The four projections 241A are formed at equal intervals along the outer circumference of the main body 241.

[0032] As shown in Figures 4A and 4B, the upper display unit 221 further comprises a support unit 246 that rotatably supports the upper display body 221A. The support unit 246 has a main body 246A. The main body 246A comprises two bearings 246A1 and four display openings 246A2. The shafts 242C and 243C of the upper display body 221A are inserted through the two bearings 246A1, respectively. The four display openings 246A2 are formed so that four different regions located in the left-right direction of the upper display body 221A are exposed to the outside, similar to the upper display window 211 of the surface plate 21. The four display openings 246A2 are formed so that they are located in approximately the same position as the upper display window 211 when the upper display unit 221 is fixed to the surface plate 21.

[0033] The upper display unit 221 further includes a motor support plate 247. The motor support plate 247 is rotatably attached to the support unit 246. A display control motor 248 is fixed to the motor support plate 247. The motor support plate 247 is fixed to the support unit 246 by screws, facing the upper display unit 221A, and with the drive gear 248A of the display control motor 248 meshing with the driven gear 242A of the upper display unit 221A.

[0034] Furthermore, a display control photosensor 249, which constitutes a display control encoder, and a home point photosensor 250, which constitutes a home point encoder, are fixed to the motor support plate 247. The display control photosensor 249 and the home point photosensor 250 are each provided with recesses 249A and 250A. The display control photosensor 249 and the home point photosensor 250 are fixed so that when the motor support plate 247 is fixed to the support part 246, the display control disk 242B and the home point disk 243B can be positioned within the recesses 249A and 250A. The display control photosensor 249 and the home point photosensor 250 detect the display control notch 242B1 of the display control disk 242B and the home point notch 243B1 of the home point disk 243B, which are located within the recesses 249A and 250A. In this way, by arranging the display control photosensor 249 and the origin photosensor 250 on the motor support plate 247, when the motor support plate 247 is opened relative to the support portion 246, the display control photosensor 249 and the origin photosensor 250 can be separated from the display control disk 242B and the origin disk 243B. Therefore, the upper display unit 221A can be easily removed from the support portion 246.

[0035] Next, the menu labels for each display unit 221A to 224A will be described. Figure 5A is a schematic diagram of the upper menu label. Figure 5B is a schematic diagram of the upper center menu label. Figure 5C is a schematic diagram of the lower center menu label. Figure 5D is a schematic diagram of the lower menu label.

[0036] As shown in Figure 5A, the upper menu label M1 comprises a rectangular first label M11, a second label M12, a third label M13, and a fourth label M14. The length of the long side of each label M11 to M14 is approximately the same as the length of the main body 241. The sum of the lengths of the short sides of each label M11 to M14 is approximately the same as the circumference of the main body 241. Each label M11 to M14 is made of a material such as paper or plastic that can be attached to the main body 241 which constitutes the first display unit 221A. With each label M11 to M14 positioned between adjacent protrusions 241A (see Figure 3D) of the main body 241, the cover 244 is attached to the main body 241.

[0037] As shown in Figures 5B, 5C, and 5D, the upper central menu label M2, the lower central menu label M3, and the lower menu label M4 each comprise a first label M21, M31, M41, a second label M22, M32, M42, a third label M23, M33, M43, and a fourth label M24, M34, M44, respectively. The first labels M21, M31, M41, the second labels M22, M32, M42, the third labels M23, M33, M43, and the fourth labels M24, M34, M44 of each menu label M2, M3, M4 have the same configuration as the first label M11, the second label M12, the third label M13, and the fourth label M14 of the upper menu label M1, and are arranged between the main body 241 and the cover 244 that constitute the second, third, and fourth display units 222A, 223A, 224A. Each menu label M1 to M4 is an example of a display member of this disclosure.

[0038] In this embodiment, the first to fourth labels M11 to M14 of each menu label M1 to M4 have characters indicating the following content written on them using methods such as printing or handwriting. Hot beverages and iced beverages are examples of items offered that belong to different categories in this disclosure. Note that "blank" means that no characters are displayed. Furthermore, the content displayed on each menu label M1 to M4 is not limited to those exemplified below. • Upper menu label M1 • Label 1 M11: Instructions to set the container (cup) in the beverage dispenser. • Second label M12: Instruction to select either a hot or cold beverage (an example of a type selection instruction in this disclosure) • Third label M13: Hot beverage menu (an example of the first menu in this disclosure) • Label 4 M14: Menu of iced beverages (an example of the first menu in this disclosure) • Top center menu label M2 • Label 1 M21: Blank • Second label M22: Hot beverage menu (an example of the first menu in this disclosure) • Third label M23: Menu of iced beverages (an example of the first menu in this disclosure) • Label 4 M24: Blank • Bottom center menu label M3 • Label 1 M31: Blank • Second label M32: Instruction to select a beverage (an example of an instruction to select an item to be offered in this disclosure) • Third label M33: Options for container size (an example of the quantity provided in this disclosure) • Label 4 M34: Blank • Lower menu label M4 • Label 1 M41: Blank • Second label M42: Instructions to select container size (an example of instructions for selecting the quantity to be provided in this disclosure) • Third label M43: A beverage menu subdivided by type of tea (an example of the second menu in this disclosure) • Label 4 M44: A beverage menu subdivided into types of beverages other than coffee and tea (an example of the second menu in this disclosure)

[0039] Each menu label M1 to M4 is positioned on the main body 241 of each display unit 221A to 224A such that when each display unit 221A to 224A rotates due to the drive of the display control motor 248 and stops at the position (origin position) where the origin photo sensor 250 detects the origin notch 243B1, the first labels M11 to M41 are exposed to the outside through the display opening 246A2 of the support unit 246 and the display windows 211 to 214 of the surface plate 21. When the menu labels M1 to M4 are arranged in this manner, and the display units 221A to 224A stop at a position where the display control photosensor 249 detects different display control notches 242B1, the second labels M12 to M42, the third labels M13 to M43, or the fourth labels M14 to M44 are exposed to the outside through the display opening 246A2 and the respective display windows 211 to 214. For example, the upper menu label M1 may be made of a single component on which the display contents of each label M11 to M14 are written, and this single component may be made of a single component and wrapped around the main body 241 of the first display unit 221A.

[0040] Next, the configuration of each operation unit 231 to 234 will be described. Since each operation unit 231 to 234 has the same configuration, only the upper operation unit 231 will be described. Figure 6A is a front view of the upper operation unit. Figure 6B is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the upper operation unit. Figure 7 is a graph showing the relationship between the distance of the operation detection unit to the pseudo-operation unit and the voltage value of the detection signal. Figure 8A is a schematic diagram showing the detection range of the operation detection unit when the detection light is emitted horizontally forward. Figure 8B is a schematic diagram showing the detection range of the operation detection unit when the detection light is emitted diagonally downward and forward.

[0041] As shown in Figures 6A and 6B, the operation detection unit 231B, which constitutes the upper operation unit 231, is composed of a distance measuring sensor, which is an example of an optical sensor in this disclosure. The operation detection unit 231B includes a light-emitting unit 231D that emits detection light L of a predetermined wavelength, and a light-receiving unit 231E that receives reflected light of the detection light L from an object. Laser light can be exemplified as the detection light L. The operation detection unit 231B outputs a detection signal of a voltage value corresponding to the light-receiving state of the reflected light in the light-receiving unit 231E to the operation control unit 27 (see Figure 9), which will be described later. The detection signal from the operation detection unit 231B is used for object detection processing in the operation control unit 27. The light-emitting unit 231D is positioned above the pseudo-operation unit 231A and emits detection light L diagonally downward and forward. The light-receiving unit 231E is positioned so that the light-receiving surface 231E1 faces diagonally downward and forward. In other words, the operation detection unit 231B is positioned to detect objects diagonally downward and in front of it. As shown in Figure 7, the operation detection unit 231B is configured to output a detection signal with a voltage value that increases as the distance D increases when the distance D from the operation detection unit 231B to the object is between 0 mm and D0, and to output a detection signal with a voltage value that decreases as the distance D increases when the distance D exceeds D0.

[0042] Here, we will explain why the operation detection unit 231B is positioned to detect objects diagonally downward and in front. For example, if the operation control unit 27 determines that the upper operation unit 231 has been operated when the voltage value of the detection signal is equal to or greater than the determination threshold Vs, the operation control unit 27 determines that the upper operation unit 231 has been operated when the distance D from the pseudo-operation unit 231A to the object is greater than or equal to the first distance D1 and less than or equal to the second distance D2.

[0043] As shown in Figures 8A and 8B, when the upper operating unit 231 is operated, the expected virtual movement trajectory of the user's finger or object is a straight line that passes through the center of the simulated operating unit 231A and is parallel to the horizontal direction, when the upper operating unit 231 is viewed from the side. As shown in Figure 8A, when the light-emitting unit 231D emits detection light L horizontally forward from inside the simulated operating unit 231A (when the optical axis of detection light L is horizontal with respect to the horizontal direction), the horizontal length of the object detection range G2 is the difference between the second distance D2 and the first distance D1. On the other hand, as shown in Figure 8B, when the light-emitting unit 231D emits detection light L diagonally downward and forward from above the simulated operating unit 231A, that is, above the virtual movement trajectory of a finger, etc. (when the optical axis of detection light L is diagonally downward and forward), the horizontal length of the object detection range G1 is longer than the detection range G2. Thus, in order to increase the detection range of the user's finger located in front of the simulated operation unit 231A, the operation detection unit 231B is positioned such that the direction of emission of the detection light L (optical axis) and the direction in which the light receiving surface 231E1 faces are inclined with respect to the virtual movement trajectory.

[0044] Furthermore, by positioning the operation detection unit 231B to detect objects diagonally downward and forward, it is possible to suppress direct sunlight from above the beverage supply device 1 from entering the light-receiving surface 231E1, thereby suppressing an increase in the dark voltage value, which will be described later.

[0045] Next, other components of the operating device 20 will be described. Figure 9 is a block diagram of the operating device. As shown in Figure 9, the operating device 20 further comprises a setup operation display unit 25, an operation control storage unit 26, and an operation control unit 27.

[0046] The setup operation display unit 25 is used for the setup process when installing or relocating the beverage supply device 1 to a store or other location. The setup operation display unit 25 comprises an input unit used for setting input and a display unit for displaying various information. Since the setup process is not related to the user, it is preferable that the setup operation display unit 25 be placed in a location that is not visible to the user. The setup operation display unit 25 may be constructed separately from the housing 10, or it may be a portable terminal device for the person presenting the setup process.

[0047] The operation control storage unit 26 is configured to send and receive various data with the operation control unit 27. The operation control storage unit 26 stores the judgment threshold Vs, the default value of the judgment threshold Vs, the setting upper limit Vu, the change reference value Vc, the first addition value Va1, the second addition value Va2, and the supply interruption threshold Vd.

[0048] The default value is, for example, a voltage value set during the setup process when installing or relocating the beverage supply device 1 to a store or the like. The setting upper limit value Vu is the maximum voltage value that can be set as the judgment threshold Vs, as shown in Figure 7. The detection range G1 of the object identified based on the setting upper limit value Vu is the narrowest acceptable detection range. The change criterion value Vc, the first increment value Va1, and the second increment value Va2 are voltage values ​​used in the determination process to decide whether or not to change the judgment threshold Vs. The supply interruption threshold Vd is an example of a processing interruption threshold in this disclosure. The supply interruption threshold Vd is a voltage value used in the determination process to decide whether or not to perform a supply interruption process to interrupt the supply of beverages. The supply interruption threshold Vd is set to a value greater than the judgment threshold Vs and less than the setting upper limit value Vu, as shown in Figure 7. In this embodiment, the default value, setting upper limit value Vu, change reference value Vc, first addition value Va1, second addition value Va2, and supply interruption threshold value Vd are set to 1.8V, 2.2V, 1V, 0.15V, 0.5V, and 0.9V, respectively, but the values ​​are not limited to those described above. The judgment threshold value Vs may be set for each operation unit 231 to 234, but in this embodiment, the case in which the same judgment threshold value Vs is set for all operation units 231 to 234 is shown as an example.

[0049] The operation control unit 27 is configured to send and receive various signals between each display unit 221-224 and each operation unit 231-234. The operation control unit 27 has a CPU (Central Processing Unit), and the CPU executes programs stored in the operation control storage unit 26 to realize the functions of the operation control unit 27. The operation control unit 27 includes a setup processing unit 271, a display control unit 272, an operation determination unit 273, a status notification control unit 274, and a false determination suppression unit 275.

[0050] The setup processing unit 271 performs the setup process for the beverage supply device 1.

[0051] The display control unit 272 controls the display content of each display unit 221 to 224 by controlling the display control motor 248 based on the detection results from the display control photosensor 249 and the origin photosensor 250.

[0052] The operation determination unit 273 determines that each operation unit 231 to 234 has been operated if the voltage value of the detection signal from the operation detection unit 231B is equal to or greater than the determination threshold Vs, and determines that each operation unit 231 to 234 has not been operated if the voltage value is less than the determination threshold Vs.

[0053] The status notification control unit 274 controls LEDs 231C to 234C according to the operating status of each operation unit 231 to 234.

[0054] The misjudgment suppression unit 275 changes the judgment threshold Vs based on the voltage value of the detection signal from the operation detection unit 231B when each operation unit 231 to 234 is not being operated, that is, the dark voltage value of each operation unit 231 to 234 when it is in standby mode.

[0055] The detailed control performed by the setup processing unit 271, display control unit 272, operation determination unit 273, status notification control unit 274, and misjudgment suppression unit 275 will be described later.

[0056] Next, the detailed configuration of the container mounting section 30 will be described. Figure 10 is a perspective view of the container mounting section and beverage supply section as seen from the front and upper right.

[0057] As shown in Figure 10, the container installation section 30 includes a container lifting chamber 31. The container lifting chamber 31 is formed in the shape of a vertically elongated rectangular box with an open front. The interior of the container lifting chamber 31 constitutes a lifting space through which the container C moves up and down. A beverage through-hole 312 is formed in the center of the top plate 311 that constitutes the container lifting chamber 31 in the left-right direction. The beverage supplied from the beverage supply section 40 passes through the beverage through-hole 312 and is supplied to the container C in the container lifting chamber 31. A rack through-hole 313 is formed on the left side of the top plate 311. The rack through-hole 313 constitutes an opening through which the lifting rack section 51 passes.

[0058] The container installation section 30 further comprises a container holding section 32. The container holding section 32 holds the container C within the container lifting chamber 31 and moves up and down within the container lifting chamber 31. The container holding section 32 comprises a mounting section 33 and an adjustment section 34.

[0059] The mounting section 33 is formed in a box shape with openings on the front and top. The mounting section 33 is positioned to move up and down within the container lifting chamber 31. The container C is placed on the bottom plate 331 of the mounting section 33. The left side plate 332 of the mounting section 33 is provided with a lifting rack section 51 that extends from the lower end of the left side plate 332 to a position above the left side plate 332. The lifting rack section 51 is provided so that it can pass through the rack through hole 313 when the mounting section 33 is raised. The lifting rack section 51 constitutes the relative movement section 50.

[0060] The adjustment unit 34 adjusts the horizontal position of the container C by moving the container C horizontally in synchronization with the movement of the mounting unit 33. The adjustment unit 34 comprises a pair of contact members 341 and an interlocking control unit (not shown). The pair of contact members 341 are formed in a shape that extends in the front-rear direction and are arranged to sandwich the container C from the left and right. The interlocking control unit moves the pair of contact members 341 toward each other in synchronization with the rising of the mounting unit 33. The interlocking control unit is configured so that if the pair of contact members 341 come into contact with the container C during the rising of the mounting unit 33, the pair of contact members 341 will not move toward each other even if the mounting unit 33 rises further. The interlocking control unit also moves the pair of contact members 341 toward each other in synchronization with the lowering of the mounting unit 33.

[0061] The beverage supply device 1 further includes a relative movement unit 50 for raising and lowering the container holding unit 32. The relative movement unit 50 includes a lifting rack unit 51 and a lifting motor 52. A rack groove (not shown) is formed over almost the entire left main surface of the lifting rack unit 51. A drive gear (not shown) is arranged on the rotation axis of the lifting motor 52. The lifting motor 52 is positioned so that a part of the drive gear is located inside the container lifting chamber 31 through a gear through-hole (not shown) formed in the left side plate 314 of the container lifting chamber 31, and engages with the rack groove. The container holding unit 32 is raised and lowered when the lifting motor 52 is driven.

[0062] Next, the detailed configuration of the beverage supply unit 40 will be described. The beverage supply unit 40 supplies the beverage selected by the user to the container C installed in the container installation unit 30. The beverage supply unit 40 includes a beverage generating unit 41 (see Figure 11) that produces the beverage. The beverage generating unit 41 includes, for example, a mechanism for extracting coffee from coffee beans, a mechanism for producing powdered beverages by diluting powder or granules with water or hot water, a mechanism for supplying milk, and the like.

[0063] The beverage supply unit 40 further comprises a plurality of nozzles 42 (six in this embodiment), a nozzle holding unit 43, a guide unit 44, a nozzle moving unit 45, and a tray 46.

[0064] Each nozzle 42 is connected to a beverage generating unit 41 via piping (not shown) and dispenses the beverage generated in the beverage generating unit 41 into a container C. The six nozzles 42 consist of two coffee nozzles 42A, one milk nozzle 42B, and three powder beverage nozzles 42C. For example, one of the two coffee nozzles 42A dispenses espresso extracted from coffee beans, and the other dispenses drip-flavored coffee extracted from coffee beans. The milk nozzle 42B dispenses milk. The three powder beverage nozzles 42C each dispense a different powder beverage. Examples of powder beverages include cocoa, black tea, matcha, coffee, and strawberry drinks. In addition, the nozzles 42 may dispense hot water, cold water, or carbonated water.

[0065] Furthermore, of the coffee dispensed from the two coffee nozzles 42A and the powdered beverages dispensed from the three powdered beverage nozzles 42C, at least one of the powdered beverages will be sold in combination with milk.

[0066] The nozzle holding portion 43 holds the nozzle 42. The guide portion 44 guides the nozzle holding portion 43 so that it moves only in the front-back direction.

[0067] The nozzle moving unit 45 moves the nozzle holding unit 43 in the front-rear direction relative to the guide unit 44. The nozzle moving unit 45 comprises a reciprocating rack unit 451 and a reciprocating motor 452. The reciprocating rack unit 451 is formed to extend front-rear on the upper surface of the nozzle holding unit 43. The reciprocating motor 452 is fixed to the left side of the nozzle holding unit 43. A drive gear 453 that meshes with the reciprocating rack unit 451 is arranged on the rotation axis of the reciprocating motor 452. When the reciprocating motor 452 is driven, the nozzle holding unit 43 moves back and forth.

[0068] The tray 46 is formed in the shape of a rectangular box with an open top. A rectangular supply hole 461 is formed in the part of the tray 46 that is in front of the center in the front-to-back direction. The supply hole 461 is formed in such a way that one or two rows of nozzles 42, which are arranged in three rows front to back, are exposed to the bottom of the tray 46, while the remaining rows of nozzles 42 are not exposed to the bottom of the tray 46. Around the supply hole 461 in the tray 46, a receiving portion 462 is formed to receive droplets dripping from the nozzles 42 or cleaning liquid used to clean the nozzles 42.

[0069] Next, other components of the beverage supply device 1 will be described. Figure 11 is a block diagram of the beverage supply device. As shown in Figure 11, the beverage supply device 1 further comprises an opening / closing motor 13, a locking unit 14, a container detection unit 35, a lifting / lowering detection unit 36, a supply control storage unit 61, and a supply control unit 62.

[0070] The opening / closing motor 13 opens and closes the loading / unloading door 11 when driven. The locking unit 14 locks the loading / unloading door 11 in the closed position. The container detection unit 35 detects that a container has been placed on the container holding unit 32 and outputs a signal corresponding to the detection result to the supply control unit 62. The lifting / lowering detection unit 36 ​​detects that the container holding unit 32 is in the origin position and outputs a signal corresponding to the detection result to the supply control unit 62. The origin position is the lowest position within the movement range of the container holding unit 32. The lifting / lowering detection unit 36 ​​detects that the upper end of the container C held by the container holding unit 32 is in the upper limit position and outputs a signal corresponding to the detection result to the supply control unit 62.

[0071] The supply control storage unit 61 is configured to send and receive various types of data with the supply control unit 62. The supply control storage unit 61 stores various types of information necessary for the beverage dispensing process.

[0072] The supply control unit 62 is configured to send and receive various signals between the open / close sensor 12, the open / close motor 13, the locking unit 14, the container detection unit 35, the lifting / lowering detection unit 36, the beverage generation unit 41, the lifting / lowering motor 52, and the forward / backward motor 452. The supply control unit 62 has a CPU, and the functions of the supply control unit 62 are realized by the CPU executing a program stored in the supply control storage unit 61. Detailed control performed by the supply control unit 62 will be described later.

[0073] <Operation of the beverage dispenser> Next, the operation of the beverage supply device 1 will be described.

[0074] <Setup process> First, we will explain the setup process for installing or relocating the beverage dispenser 1 in a store or other location. Figure 12 is a flowchart showing the setup process for the beverage dispenser. In this embodiment, we illustrate the case where the setup processing unit 271 performs the setup process, but for example, the supplier of the beverage dispenser 1 or an employee may perform the setup process manually.

[0075] The setup processing unit 271 of the operation control unit 27, which constitutes the operation device 20, detects that the setup process should be started based on the operation of the setup operation display unit 25 by an employee or the like, and acquires solar movement trajectory information as shown in Figure 12 (step S1). The solar movement trajectory information includes, for example, content representing the movement trajectory of the sun over one day. The setup processing unit 271 acquires the solar movement trajectory information for the installation area and installation date of the beverage supply device 1, which has been set based on the operation of the setup operation display unit 25, from an external source, for example, via a communication network.

[0076] Next, the setup processing unit 271 determines whether the installation orientation of the beverage dispenser 1, that is, the direction in which the front of the beverage dispenser 1 faces, has been determined (step S2). The installation orientation is determined by an employee or the like operating the setup operation display unit 25. If the setup processing unit 271 determines that the installation orientation of the beverage dispenser 1 has been determined (step S2: YES), it specifies the installation orientation (step S3).

[0077] On the other hand, if the setup processing unit 271 determines that the installation orientation of the beverage supply device 1 has not been determined (step S2: NO), it proposes an optimal installation orientation (step S4). In the process of step S4, the setup processing unit 271 calculates the optimal installation orientation that minimizes the dark voltage value of the operation detection unit 231B during the daytime, based on, for example, the solar trajectory information, the wavelength of sunlight, and the wavelength of the detection light L of the operation detection unit 231B, and displays the calculated optimal installation orientation on the setup operation display unit 25.

[0078] Employees who have received a suggestion for the optimal installation orientation install the beverage dispenser 1 in that optimal orientation. After that, when the employee determines the installation orientation by operating the setup operation display unit 25, the setup processing unit 271 identifies the installation orientation (step S3). After performing the process in step S3, the setup processing unit 271 sets the judgment threshold Vs (step S5). In the process of step S5, the setup processing unit 271 sets the judgment threshold Vs for the time period when direct sunlight does not affect the detection of the operation detection unit 231B to the default value. On the other hand, the setup processing unit 271 increases the judgment threshold Vs for the time period when direct sunlight affects the detection of the operation detection unit 231B, that is, when the dark voltage value of the operation detection unit 231B is relatively high, to a value higher than the default value. For example, the setup processing unit 271 increases the judgment threshold Vs for the time period when direct sunlight affects the detection of the operation detection unit 231B by 0.15V compared to the default value. The setup processing unit 271 associates the set judgment threshold Vs with the time period and stores it in the operation control storage unit 26. In this way, by making the judgment threshold Vs for the time period in which direct sunlight affects the detection of the operation detection unit 231B larger than the judgment threshold Vs for other time periods, it is possible to suppress misjudgments of operations caused by the dark voltage value exceeding the judgment threshold Vs.

[0079] When the setup processing unit 271 completes the process in step S5, it displays points to note regarding the completion of the setup of the beverage dispenser 1 on the setup operation display unit 25 (step S6). Examples of points to note include a suggestion to close the store's curtains to suppress misjudgments of operation due to the effects of direct sunlight. With this, the setup process for the beverage dispenser 1 is completed.

[0080] <Processing to suppress misjudgments during supply standby> Next, we will explain the misjudgment suppression process during the supply standby period as part of the operation of the beverage supply device 1. The misjudgment suppression process is performed at regular intervals or at set times during the supply standby period to suppress misjudgments of operations caused by direct sunlight. As will be explained in more detail later, the misjudgment suppression process is also performed when selecting a beverage menu. Figure 13 is a flowchart of the misjudgment suppression process.

[0081] The false detection suppression process during supply standby is performed based on the dark voltage value of the operation detection unit 231B that constitutes at least one of the multiple operation units 231 to 234. When performing the false detection suppression process based on the dark voltage values ​​of multiple operation detection units 231B, the process may be performed based on the largest voltage value among the multiple dark voltage values, the average value of the multiple dark voltage values, or each of the dark voltage values ​​individually. In addition, the amount of direct sunlight hitting a typical-sized beverage supply device 1 may be approximately the same for each operation unit 231 to 234. In this case, the false detection suppression process may be performed based on a predetermined dark voltage value of one operation detection unit 231B. The dark voltage value of the operation detection unit 231B is simply referred to as the "dark voltage value".

[0082] When the misjudgment suppression unit 275 of the operation control unit 27, which constitutes the operation device 20, determines that it is time to perform the misjudgment suppression process, it determines whether the value obtained by subtracting the dark voltage value from the judgment threshold Vs at the current time is equal to or greater than the change reference value (1V in this embodiment), as shown in Figure 13 (step S11). If the misjudgment suppression unit 275 determines that the value obtained by subtracting the dark voltage value from the judgment threshold Vs is equal to or greater than the change reference value (step S11: YES), it terminates the warning process described later (step S12). The misjudgment suppression unit 275 then terminates the misjudgment suppression process. If the warning process has not been performed, the misjudgment suppression unit 275 terminates the misjudgment suppression process without performing the process in step S12. In this way, if the value obtained by subtracting the dark voltage value from the judgment threshold Vs is equal to or greater than the change reference value, misjudgment of operation due to direct sunlight can be suppressed without changing the judgment threshold Vs.

[0083] On the other hand, if the false judgment suppression unit 275 determines that the value obtained by subtracting the dark voltage value from the judgment threshold Vs is less than the change reference value (step S11: NO), it determines whether the value obtained by adding a first increment value (0.15V in this embodiment) to the judgment threshold Vs at the current time is equal to or greater than the set upper limit value (2.2V in this embodiment) (step S13). If the false judgment suppression unit 275 determines that the value obtained by adding a first increment value to the judgment threshold Vs is less than the set upper limit value (step S13: NO), it determines whether the value obtained by adding a second increment value (0.5V in this embodiment) to the dark voltage value is equal to or greater than the judgment threshold Vs (step S14).

[0084] If the false determination suppression unit 275 determines that the value obtained by adding the second increment value to the dark voltage value is less than the determination threshold Vs (step S14: NO), that is, if it determines that the value obtained by subtracting the dark voltage value from the determination threshold Vs exceeds the second increment value, it performs the process in step S12 without changing the determination threshold Vs. On the other hand, if the false determination suppression unit 275 determines that the value obtained by adding the second increment value to the dark voltage value is greater than or equal to the determination threshold Vs (step S14: YES), that is, if it determines that the value obtained by subtracting the dark voltage value from the determination threshold Vs is less than or equal to the second increment value, it changes the determination threshold Vs to the value obtained by adding the second increment value to the dark voltage value (step S15). In other words, the false determination suppression unit 275 replaces the determination threshold Vs stored in the operation control storage unit 26 with the value obtained by adding the second increment value to the dark voltage value. After that, the false determination suppression unit 275 performs the process in step S12.

[0085] Furthermore, if the false determination suppression unit 275 determines that the value obtained by adding a first increment value to the determination threshold Vs is equal to or greater than the set upper limit value (step S13: YES), it determines whether the dark voltage value is equal to or greater than the supply interruption threshold (1.9V in this embodiment) (step S16). If the false determination suppression unit 275 determines that the dark voltage value is equal to or greater than the supply interruption threshold (step S16: YES), it starts the supply interruption process (step S17). The supply interruption process is the process of interrupting the supply of beverages. Examples of the supply interruption process include at least one of the following: a process that prevents the operation determination unit 273 from performing the operation determination process, and a process that causes the LEDs 231C, 232C, 233C, and 234C constituting the operation unit 23 to notify that beverages will not be supplied (processes corresponding to the operations of each operation unit 231 to 234). An example of a method for notifying that beverages will not be supplied is to light up or blink a predetermined LED in a predetermined state. When the above notification process is performed, LEDs 231C, 232C, 233C, and 234C function as notification units according to this disclosure. The false judgment suppression unit 275 then terminates the false judgment suppression process. If the supply interruption process has already been performed, the false judgment suppression unit 275 terminates the false judgment suppression process while continuing the supply interruption process.

[0086] On the other hand, if the false determination suppression unit 275 determines that the dark voltage value is less than the supply interruption threshold (step S16: NO), it changes the determination threshold Vs to the set upper limit value (step S18). In other words, the false determination suppression unit 275 replaces the determination threshold Vs stored in the operation control storage unit 26 with the set upper limit value.

[0087] Next, the misjudgment suppression unit 275 starts a warning process (step S19). If a warning process has already been performed, the misjudgment suppression unit 275 continues the warning process. Here, the warning process is a process that notifies the user that there is a possibility of misjudgment of operation due to the influence of direct sunlight, and that the user should block sunlight (external light) by closing curtains or other means. The notification method can be the same as the method exemplified in the supply interruption process.

[0088] Subsequently, the misjudgment suppression unit 275 terminates the supply interruption process (step S20) and ends the misjudgment suppression process.

[0089] <Effects of misclassification suppression processing> As described above, each of the operating units 231 to 234 of the beverage supply device 1 is a non-contact operating unit. Therefore, the user can operate each of the operating units 231 to 234 hygienically. If the misjudgment suppression unit 275 determines that the value obtained by subtracting the dark voltage value of each operating unit 231 to 234 from the judgment threshold Vs is less than the change reference value (step S11: NO), it increases the judgment threshold Vs by processing in step S15 or step S18. Therefore, compared to not changing the judgment threshold Vs, the difference between the judgment threshold Vs and the dark voltage value can be increased, and misjudgments of operation due to direct sunlight can be suppressed.

[0090] If the false determination suppression unit 275 determines that the dark voltage value is less than the supply interruption threshold (step S16: NO), it changes the determination threshold Vs to the set upper limit (step S18). This process in step 18 increases the determination threshold Vs, which narrows the detection range G1. However, compared to not changing the determination threshold Vs, it is possible to increase the difference between the determination threshold Vs and the dark voltage value, thereby suppressing false determination of operations caused by direct sunlight.

[0091] The misjudgment suppression unit 275 starts the warning process when the judgment threshold Vs is changed to the set upper limit. If the judgment threshold Vs is changed to the set upper limit, it will not be possible to further increase the judgment threshold Vs thereafter. However, by having employees take measures to lower the dark voltage value, such as closing curtains, based on the warning process, the difference between the judgment threshold Vs and the dark voltage value can be increased, thereby suppressing misjudgments of operations due to the influence of direct sunlight.

[0092] If the false judgment suppression unit 275 determines that the value obtained by adding a second sum to the dark voltage value is greater than or equal to the judgment threshold Vs (step S14: YES), it changes the judgment threshold Vs to the value obtained by adding a second sum to the dark voltage value (step S15). As a result of the process in step S15, the judgment threshold Vs becomes larger, which narrows the detection range G1. However, compared to not changing the judgment threshold Vs, the difference between the judgment threshold Vs and the dark voltage value can be increased, thereby suppressing false judgments of operations caused by direct sunlight.

[0093] If the misjudgment suppression unit 275 determines that the dark voltage value is equal to or greater than the supply interruption threshold (step S16: YES), it starts the supply interruption process (step S17). If the dark voltage value is equal to or greater than the supply interruption threshold, that is, if the difference between the set upper limit and the dark voltage value is small, there is a risk of misjudgment of the operation even if the judgment threshold Vs is changed to the set upper limit. However, by starting the supply interruption process when the dark voltage value is equal to or greater than the supply interruption threshold, it is possible to prevent the user from being served a beverage they do not want due to misjudgment of the operation.

[0094] <Beverage supply processing> Next, the beverage supply process will be described as the operation of the beverage supply device 1. Figure 14 is a schematic diagram showing the state in which a standby message is displayed on the control device. Figure 15 is a flowchart of the beverage supply process. Note that in Figure 14, each control unit 231 to 234 is shown as a circular shape, and the other components of the control device 20 are also shown in shapes that differ from the actual ones. In the following explanation, the first, second, and third upper control units 231 from the left may be referred to as the "hot button 231H," the "ice button 231J," and the "back button 231K," respectively. Each control unit 231 to 234 that is in a selectable state may be referred to as a "selectable button," each control unit 231 to 234 that has been selected may be referred to as a "selected button," and each control unit 231 to 234 that has not been selected may be referred to as a "non-selected button." Regardless of whether they are selectable or not, each of the operation units 232-234 may be referred to as "sale buttons 232-234". When the LEDs 231C-234C of each button are lit, off, or blinking, it may be referred to as "the button is off, lit, or blinking".

[0095] First, before the beverage supply process begins, each of the display units 221A to 224A constituting the display unit 22 of the operating device 20 is stopped at the origin position, and as shown in Figure 14, the characters of the first label M11 to M41 are displayed on each of the display units 221 to 224 of the operating device 20. In other words, the operating device 20 displays only an instruction to set a container (cup) in the beverage supply device (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the "standby message"). By displaying such a standby message, the user of the beverage supply device 1 can easily recognize that they need to set a container C first in order to receive a beverage. Also, while the standby message is displayed, the hot button 231H and the ice button 231J are lit, while the back button 231K and the sales buttons 232 to 234 are off.

[0096] As shown in Figure 15, the supply control unit 62 of the beverage supply device 1 determines whether or not the user has opened the loading / unloading door 11 based on the output state of the signal from the opening / closing sensor 12 while the container holding unit 32 is waiting at the origin position (step S31). If the supply control unit 62 determines that the loading / unloading door 11 has not been opened (step S31: NO), it repeats the process of step S31. On the other hand, if the supply control unit 62 determines that the loading / unloading door 11 has been opened (step S31: YES), it performs a beverage supply process to provide the beverage to the container C (step S32). The beverage supply process includes the process until the container C containing the beverage is removed from the beverage supply device 1. Details of the beverage supply process will be described later.

[0097] When the beverage dispensing process in step S32 is completed, the supply control unit 62 controls the lifting motor 52 based on the output state of the signal from the lifting detection unit 36 ​​to move the container holding unit 32 to the origin position (step S33). The supply control unit 62 controls the locking unit 14 to release the lock on the loading / unloading door 11 (step S34).

[0098] The status notification control unit 274 of the operating device 20 turns off all buttons (each operating unit 231-234) (step S35). The display control unit 272 controls the display control motors 248 of each display unit 221-224 to display a standby message on the operating device 20 (step S36). The status notification control unit 274 turns on the hot button 231H and the ice button 231J (step S37). With these steps, the beverage supply process is completed.

[0099] Next, the beverage serving process in step S32 will be described. Figures 16 and 17 are flowcharts of the beverage serving process.

[0100] As shown in Figure 16, the supply control unit 62 controls the opening / closing motor 13 to open the loading / unloading door 11 (step S41), and determines whether or not container C has been placed on the container holding unit 32 based on the output state of the signal from the container detection unit 35 (step S42). If the supply control unit 62 determines that container C has not been placed on the container holding unit 32 (step S42: NO), it repeats the process of step S42. On the other hand, if the supply control unit 62 determines that container C has been placed on the container holding unit 32 (step S42: YES), it closes the loading / unloading door 11 (step S43).

[0101] The supply control unit 62 locks the loading / unloading door 11 (step S44) and controls the lifting motor 52 based on the detection result from the lifting / lowering detection unit 36 ​​to move the container holding unit 32 to the upper limit position (step S45). After this, the operating device 20 performs a beverage selection process (step S46). Details of the beverage selection process will be described later.

[0102] When the beverage selection process in step S46 is completed, the supply control unit 62 controls the reciprocating motor 452 to move the nozzle holding unit 43 to the supply position in order to supply the beverage selected in the beverage selection process (step S47). When the nozzle holding unit 43 moves to the supply position, the nozzle 42 that dispenses the selected beverage is exposed downward from the supply hole 461 of the tray 46. The supply control unit 62 controls the beverage generating unit 41 to dispense the beverage from the nozzle 42 and supply it to the container C (step S48). The supply control unit 62 moves the nozzle holding unit 43 to the standby position (the position before the process in step S47) (step S49).

[0103] As shown in Figure 17, the supply control unit 62 unlocks the loading / unloading door 11 (step S50) and opens the loading / unloading door 11 (step S51). Based on the output status of the signal from the container detection unit 35, the supply control unit 62 determines whether or not container C has been removed from the container holding unit 32 (step S52). If the supply control unit 62 determines that container C has not been removed (step S52: NO), it repeats the process in step S52. On the other hand, if the supply control unit 62 determines that container C has been removed (step S52: YES), it closes the loading / unloading door 11 (step S53) and locks the loading / unloading door 11 (step S54). With this, the beverage dispensing process is completed.

[0104] Next, the beverage selection process in step S46 will be described. Figures 18 and 19 are flowcharts of the beverage selection process. Figures 20A to 20J are schematic diagrams showing the display contents of the operating device during the beverage selection process.

[0105] As described above, the beverage selection process in step S46 is performed when the dispensing door 11 is opened while the hot button 231H and ice button 231J are lit (see Figure 14). As shown in Figure 18, the status notification control unit 274 makes the hot button 231H and ice button 231J blink to prompt the user to select either the hot button 231H or the ice button 231J (step S61). As a result of the process in step S61, as shown in Figure 20A, the hot button 231H and ice button 231J blink as selectable buttons, while the back button 231K and sales buttons 232-234 remain off as unselectable buttons. The display control unit 272 controls the display control motor 248 of the upper display unit 221 to display a selection instruction for a hot beverage or an iced beverage, as shown in Figure 20A (step S62).

[0106] The operation determination unit 273 determines whether the user has selected either the hot button 231H or the ice button 231J (step S63). In step S63, the operation determination unit 273 determines that a selection operation has been performed if the voltage value corresponding to the detection signal from the operation detection unit 231B of the selectable buttons 231H and 231J to be operated becomes equal to or greater than the determination threshold Vs stored in the operation control storage unit 26. On the other hand, the operation determination unit 273 does not determine that a selection operation has been performed even if the voltage value corresponding to the detection signal from the operation detection unit 231B of the non-selectable buttons 231K, 232 to 234 to be not operated becomes equal to or greater than the determination threshold Vs.

[0107] If the operation determination unit 273 determines that neither the hot button 231H nor the ice button 231J is selected (step S63: NO), it repeats the process in step S63. On the other hand, if the operation determination unit 273 determines that either the hot button 231H or the ice button 231J is selected (step S63: YES), the status notification control unit 274 lights up the selected button among the selectable buttons 231H and 231J, while turning off the unselected button (step S64). For example, if the hot button 231H is selected, the process in step S64 will cause the hot button 231H to light up while the ice button 231J turns off, as shown in Figure 20B.

[0108] The misjudgment suppression unit 275 performs misjudgment suppression processing for the second and lower central operation units 232 and 233, which are selectable buttons in the following procedure (step S65). In the misjudgment suppression processing in step S65, the misjudgment suppression unit 275 performs the processing of steps S11 to S20 of the misjudgment suppression processing during supply standby shown in Figure 13, based on the dark voltage value of the operation detection unit 231B that constitutes the upper central operation unit 232 and the lower central operation unit 233 (upper and lower central operation units 232 and 233).

[0109] The display control unit 272 determines whether or not the supply interruption process has been initiated as a result of the misjudgment suppression process (step S66). If the display control unit 272 determines that the supply interruption process has been initiated (step S66: YES), it terminates the beverage supply process as shown in Figure 15. In this case, the supply control unit 62 performs the processes shown in steps S50 to S54 in Figure 17 and steps S33 and S34 in Figure 15, and returns the container C, which has not been supplied with beverage, to the user.

[0110] On the other hand, if the display control unit 272 determines that the supply interruption process has not been started (step S66: NO), it controls the display control motors 248 of the upper display unit 221 and the upper central display unit 222 to display the selected hot beverage or iced beverage menu on each display unit 221, 222 (step S67). For example, if a hot beverage is selected, the process in step S67 will display the hot beverage menu on each display unit 221, 222 as shown in Figure 20C. If an iced beverage is selected, the process in step S67 will display the iced beverage menu on each display unit 221, 222 as shown in Figure 20D.

[0111] Subsequently, the status notification control unit 274 causes the upper and lower central operation units 232 and 233 to flash as selectable buttons, as shown in Figure 20C or Figure 20D (step S68). This flashing control allows the user to easily recognize the selectable buttons 232 and 233.

[0112] As shown in Figure 19, the operation determination unit 273 determines whether the user has selected one of the selectable beverage buttons 232, 233 (step S69). In the process of step S69, the operation determination unit 273 determines that a selection operation has been performed if the voltage value corresponding to the detection signal from the operation detection unit 231B of the selectable buttons 232, 233 to be operated on is equal to or greater than the determination threshold Vs. On the other hand, the operation determination unit 273 does not determine that a selection operation has been performed even if the voltage value corresponding to the detection signal from the operation detection unit 231B of the selected button 231 and the unselectable buttons 231, 234 to be operated on is equal to or greater than the determination threshold Vs.

[0113] If the operation determination unit 273 determines that no beverage selectable buttons 232, 233 have been selected (step S69: NO), it repeats the process in step S69. On the other hand, if the operation determination unit 273 determines that a beverage selectable button 232, 233 has been selected (step S69: YES), the status notification control unit 274 lights up the selected button among the selectable buttons 232, 233, while turning off the unselected buttons (step S70). For example, if the selectable button 232 corresponding to hot coffee is selected, the process in step S70 will cause the selectable button 232 corresponding to hot coffee to light up as the selected button, as shown in Figure 20E, while the selectable buttons 232, 233 corresponding to beverages that were not selected will turn off as unselected buttons.

[0114] The misjudgment suppression unit 275 performs misjudgment suppression processing on the lower operation unit 234, which is a selectable button in the following step (step S71). In the misjudgment suppression processing in step S71, the misjudgment suppression unit 275 performs misjudgment suppression processing similar to the processing in step S65 based on the dark voltage value of the operation detection unit 231B that constitutes the lower operation unit 234.

[0115] The display control unit 272 determines whether or not the supply interruption process has been initiated as a result of the misjudgment suppression process (step S72). If the display control unit 272 determines that the supply interruption process has been initiated (step S72: YES), it terminates the beverage supply process as shown in Figure 15. In this case, the supply control unit 62 performs the same processing as when it was determined in step S66 that the supply interruption process had been initiated, and returns the container C, which does not contain beverage, to the user.

[0116] On the other hand, if the display control unit 272 determines that the supply interruption process has not been started (step S72: NO), it controls the display control motors 248 of the lower central display unit 223 and the lower display unit 224 to display the container size or a further subdivided menu of beverages of the selected beverage type on each display unit 223, 224 (step S73).

[0117] For example, if hot coffee is selected, the process in step S73 will cause the container size to be displayed in the lower central display unit 223, as shown in Figure 20F, and the container size selection instruction will be displayed in the lower display unit 224. If a beverage other than hot tea or another beverage, or iced tea or another cold beverage is selected, the container size and selection instruction will also be displayed in the respective display units 223 and 224.

[0118] Furthermore, if hot tea is selected, the process in step S73 displays a menu of beverages further subdivided from the type of tea, as shown in Figure 20G, on the lower display unit 224, and a menu selection instruction is displayed on the lower central display unit 223. If iced tea is selected, the same beverage menu and selection instruction as in Figure 20G are displayed on the respective display units 223 and 224. Furthermore, if other hot beverages are selected, the process in step S73 displays a menu of beverages further subdivided from other beverages, as shown in Figure 20H, on the lower display unit 224, and a menu selection instruction is displayed on the lower central display unit 223. If other cold beverages are selected, the same beverage menu and selection instruction as in Figure 20H are displayed on the respective display units 223 and 224. The descriptions of tea and other beverages on the upper central display unit 222A are an example of the second menu display requirement of this disclosure.

[0119] The status notification control unit 274 causes the lower operation unit 234 to blink as a selectable button, as shown in Figures 20F, 20G, or 20H (step S74). This blinking control allows the user to easily recognize the selectable button 234.

[0120] The operation determination unit 273 determines whether the user has selected one of the selectable container size or beverage buttons 234 (step S75). In step S75, the operation determination unit 273 determines that a selection operation has been performed if the voltage value corresponding to the detection signal from the operation detection unit 231B of the selectable button 234 to be operated on is equal to or greater than the determination threshold Vs. On the other hand, the operation determination unit 273 does not determine that a selection operation has been performed even if the voltage value corresponding to the detection signal from the operation detection unit 231B of the selected buttons 231, 232, 233 or the unselectable buttons 231, 232, 233 to be unoperated is equal to or greater than the determination threshold Vs. This type of determination control can suppress user errors.

[0121] If the operation determination unit 273 determines that the container size or beverage selection button 234 has not been selected (step S75: NO), it repeats the process of step S75. On the other hand, if the operation determination unit 273 determines that the container size or beverage selection button 234 has been selected (step S75: YES), the status notification control unit 274 lights up the selected button among the selectable buttons 234, while turning off the unselected button (step S76).

[0122] For example, if the selectable button 234 corresponding to container size M is selected, the process in step S76 will cause the selectable button 234 corresponding to container size M to light up as a selected button, as shown in Figure 20I, while the selectable buttons 234 corresponding to the remaining sizes will turn off as unselected buttons. If the selectable button 234 corresponding to matcha latte is selected, the process in step S76 will cause the selectable button 234 corresponding to matcha latte to light up as a selected button, as shown in Figure 20J, while the selectable buttons 234 corresponding to the remaining sizes will turn off as unselected buttons. In this way, by lighting up the selected buttons 231, 232, 233, and 234 and displaying the beverage menu, the user can easily recognize the beverage they will be served. This completes the beverage selection process.

[0123] <Effects of beverage supply processing> In the beverage supply process described above, the beverage supply device 1 is configured to switch the content displayed via each display window 211 to 214 by moving each display unit 221A to 224A. Therefore, unlike the device described in Patent Document 1, the beverage menu can be changed or added in a simple manner by only changing the content displayed on each display unit 221A, 222A, and 224A, without developing a user interface.

[0124] Furthermore, each display unit 221 to 224 is composed of a main body 241, each menu label M1 to M4, and 2. Therefore, the beverage menu can be changed or added in a simple manner by simply changing each menu label M1 to M4 according to the type of beverage being offered. For example, when changing the upper menu label M1, the motor support plate 247 is opened from the state shown in Figure 4A, as shown in Figure 4B. Next, by pushing the upper display unit 221A to the left in Figure 4B, the spring 240 is deformed, and the shaft body 242C of the fixed shaft unit 242 is removed from the bearing 246A1 of the support unit 246, thereby removing the upper display unit 221A from the support unit 246. After this, as shown in Figure 3C, the fixed shaft unit 242 is removed from the main body 241, and then as shown in Figure 3D, the cover 244 is removed from the main body 241, and the upper menu label M1 is changed. After that, the cover 244 and the fixed shaft portion 242 are attached to the main body 241, the upper display unit 221A is attached to the support portion 246, and then the motor support plate 247 is closed.

[0125] In step S62, the display control unit 272 displays a selection instruction for hot or iced beverages on each of the display units 221 and 222. This allows the user to easily recognize that they need to select either the hot button 231H or the ice button 231J. Furthermore, in step 67, the display control unit 272 switches the display content of the upper display unit 221 from a selection instruction for hot or iced beverages to a menu of hot or iced beverages. This eliminates the need to provide a separate area on the operating device 20 to display only the selection instruction for hot or iced beverages, thus preventing the operating device 20 from becoming larger.

[0126] In step S63, the operation determination unit 273 determines that a selection operation has been performed if the voltage value corresponding to the detection signal from the operation detection unit 231B of the selectable buttons 231H and 231J of the target of operation becomes equal to or greater than the determination threshold Vs stored in the operation control storage unit 26. However, it does not determine that a selection operation has been performed even if the voltage value corresponding to the detection signal from the operation detection unit 231B of the non-selectable buttons 231K, 232-234 of the non-operable target becomes equal to or greater than the determination threshold Vs. This type of determination control can suppress user error.

[0127] In step S69, the operation determination unit 273 determines that a selection operation has been performed if the voltage value corresponding to the detection signal from the operation detection unit 231B of the selectable buttons 232 and 233 of the target of operation becomes equal to or greater than the determination threshold Vs. However, it does not determine that a selection operation has been performed even if the voltage value corresponding to the detection signal from the operation detection unit 231B of the selected button 231 and the unselectable buttons 231 and 234 of the target of operation becomes equal to or greater than the determination threshold Vs. This type of determination control can suppress user errors.

[0128] In step S73, the display control unit 272 displays the container size options on the third display unit 223. This allows for the provision of a beverage dispenser 1 capable of supplying quantities of beverage corresponding to multiple container sizes. Specifically, the display control unit 272 displays the container size options and selection instructions on each of the display units 223 and 224. Therefore, the user can easily recognize that they need to select a container size.

[0129] In step S73, the display control unit 272 displays a container size selection instruction on the lower display unit 224 when the container size is to be displayed on the lower central display unit 223, while displaying a beverage menu on the lower display unit 224 when the beverage menu is to be displayed on the lower display unit 223, displays a menu selection instruction on the lower central display unit 223. Therefore, it is not necessary to provide separate areas on the operating device 20 for displaying only the menu selection instruction or only the container size selection instruction, and the size of the operating device 20 can be suppressed.

[0130] [Differentiation] Needless to say, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described herein, and various modifications can be made without departing from its spirit.

[0131] For example, if the false determination suppression unit 275 determines that the value obtained by subtracting the dark voltage value from the determination threshold Vs is less than the change reference value (step S11: NO), it may change the determination threshold Vs to a value obtained by adding a predetermined value to the said determination threshold Vs without performing the processing in steps S12 to S20.

[0132] If the false judgment suppression unit 275 determines that the value obtained by adding the first increment value to the judgment threshold Vs is less than the set upper limit (step S13: NO), it may change the judgment threshold Vs to the set upper limit without performing the process in step S16 (step S18). In this case, the false judgment suppression unit 275 does not need to perform the supply interruption process.

[0133] Although the example shows that the misjudgment suppression unit 275 performs processing based on detection signals from the target operation units 231-234 at each stage of the operation (for each process in steps S63, S69, and S75), while not performing processing based on detection signals from the non-target operation units 231-234, it is also possible to perform processing based on detection signals from both the target and non-target operation units 231-234 regardless of the stage of the operation.

[0134] The operation detection unit 231B constituting each operation unit 231 may be arranged as shown in Figure 8A, such that the light-emitting unit 231D emits detection light L horizontally forward from inside the pseudo-operation unit 231A, or it may be arranged so that the detection light L emits from the right, left, or bottom side of the pseudo-operation unit 231A toward the virtual movement trajectory of a finger or object.

[0135] The misjudgment suppression unit 275 does not need to perform a warning process.

[0136] Although an example configuration has been shown in which the operation determination unit 273 and the false determination suppression unit 275 perform processing based on the dark voltage value, processing based on the dark current value may also be performed. At least one of the operation determination unit 273 and the false determination suppression unit 275 may not be provided on the operation device 20, but may be connected to the operation device 20 via wireless or other means to enable communication.

[0137] Although beverages are given as an example of what is provided based on the operation of the operating device of this disclosure, other items such as food products may also be provided. [Industrial applicability]

[0138] This disclosure can be applied to operating devices, beverage supply devices, and operating methods. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0139] 1 Beverage dispensing equipment 10 cabinets 10A Container opening 11. Entrance / Exit Door 12 Open / Close Sensor 13 Opening / closing motor 14 Locking mechanism 20 Operating device 21 Surface plate 22 Display section 23 Control section 25 Setup operation display unit 26 Operation control memory unit 27 Operation Control Unit 30 Container installation part 31 Container Lifting Room 32 Container holding part 33 Mounting section 34 Adjustment section 35 Container detection unit 36 Lifting / Lowering Detection Unit 40 Beverage supply section 41 Beverage production department 42 nozzles 42A Coffee Nozzle 42B Milk nozzle 42C Powder Beverage Nozzle 43 Nozzle holding part 44 Guide section 45 Nozzle movement section 46 trays 50 Relative moving part 51 Lifting rack section 52 Lifting motor 61 Storage unit for supply control 62 Supply Control Unit 211 Upper display window 212 Upper center display window 213 Lower center display window 214 Lower display window 221 Upper display section 221A Upper display 222 Upper center display 222A Upper center display 223 Lower center display 223A Lower center display 224 Lower display 224A Lower display 231 Upper operation section 231A Pseudo operation section 231B Operation detection unit 231C LED 231D Lighting Unit 231E Light receiving section 232 Upper center control section 232A Pseudo operation section 232B Operation detection unit 232C LED 233 Lower center control section 233A Pseudo operation section 233B Operation detection unit 233C LED 234 Lower operation section 234A Pseudo operation section 234B Operation detection unit 234C LED 240 springs 241 Main unit 241A Protrusion 242 Fixed shaft part 242A Driven Gear 242B Display control disk 242B1 Notch for display control 242C shaft body 243 Movable shaft part 243A Movable body 243B Origin disk 243B1 Origin notch 243C shaft body 244 Cover 246 Support part 246A Main Unit 246A1 bearing 246A2 Display aperture 247 Motor support plate 248 Display control motor 248A Drive Gear 249 Photosensor for display control 249A, 250A recess 250 Origin Photo Sensor 271 Setup Processing Unit 272 Display Control Unit 273 Operation judgment section 274 Status Notification Control Unit 275 Misjudgment suppression unit 311 Top plate 312 Beverage through hole 313 Through-holes for racks 314 Left side plate 331 Bottom plate part 332 Left side plate 341 Contact member 451 Movement rack section 452 Reverse motor 453 Drive Gear 461 Supply hole 462 Receiving part C container D0 distance D1 1st distance D2 2nd distance G1, G2 detection range L light detection M1 Upper menu label M2 Top center menu label M3 Bottom center menu label M4 Lower Menu Label M11, M21, M31, M41 1st label M12, M22, M32, M42 Second Label M13, M23, M33, M43 3rd label M14, M24, M34, M44 4th Label

Claims

1. A non-contact operation unit having an optical sensor that emits detection light of a predetermined wavelength while outputting a detection signal of a magnitude corresponding to the light reception state of the predetermined wavelength, An operation determination unit determines that an operation has been performed on the non-contact operation unit if the magnitude of the detection signal is equal to or greater than a determination threshold, The operation determination unit includes a misjudgment suppression unit that suppresses misjudgments, The misjudgment suppression unit increases the judgment threshold if the difference between the magnitude of the detection signal and the judgment threshold during the standby period of the operation is less than the change reference value. The aforementioned misjudgment suppression unit is If the difference is less than the change threshold value, and the value obtained by adding the first increment value to the judgment threshold is equal to or greater than the set upper limit value of the judgment threshold, the judgment threshold is changed to the set upper limit value. When the judgment threshold is changed to the set upper limit, the notification unit shall notify the user that there is a possibility of misjudging the operation, and that the user should block out ambient light. Operating device.

2. The aforementioned misjudgment suppression unit is If the difference is less than the change reference value, the value obtained by adding the first increment value to the judgment threshold is less than the set upper limit value, and the calculated value obtained by adding the second increment value to the magnitude of the detection signal during standby is greater than or equal to the judgment threshold, the judgment threshold is changed to the calculated value. The operating device according to claim 1.

3. A non-contact operating unit having an optical sensor that emits detection light of a predetermined wavelength and outputs a detection signal of a magnitude corresponding to the light reception state of the light of the predetermined wavelength, An operation determination unit determines that an operation has been performed on the non-contact operation unit if the magnitude of the detection signal is equal to or greater than a determination threshold, The operation determination unit includes a misjudgment suppression unit to suppress misjudgments, It comprises a plurality of non-contact operating parts used for step-by-step operation, The misjudgment suppression unit increases the judgment threshold if the difference between the magnitude of the detection signal and the judgment threshold during the standby period of the operation is less than the change reference value. The operation determination unit and the misjudgment suppression unit perform processing based on the detection signal from the non-contact operation unit of the target of operation at each stage of the operation, while not performing processing based on the detection signal from the non-contact operation unit of the target of non-operation. Operating device.

4. A non-contact operating unit having an optical sensor that emits detection light of a predetermined wavelength and outputs a detection signal of a magnitude corresponding to the light reception state of the light of the predetermined wavelength, An operation determination unit determines that an operation has been performed on the non-contact operation unit if the magnitude of the detection signal is equal to or greater than a determination threshold, The operation determination unit includes a misjudgment suppression unit that suppresses misjudgments, The misjudgment suppression unit increases the judgment threshold if the difference between the magnitude of the detection signal and the judgment threshold during the standby period of the operation is less than the change reference value. The light sensor is positioned such that the direction of emission of the detected light and the direction in which the light-receiving surface faces are inclined with respect to the virtual movement trajectory of the user's fingers or an object when the operation is performed. Operating device.

5. The light sensor is positioned above the virtual movement trajectory, such that the direction of emission of the detected light and the direction in which the light-receiving surface faces are diagonally downward. The operating device according to claim 4.

6. Operating device and The system includes a beverage supply unit that supplies beverages in accordance with the operation of the aforementioned operating device, The aforementioned operating device is A non-contact operation unit having an optical sensor that emits detection light of a predetermined wavelength while outputting a detection signal of a magnitude corresponding to the light reception state of the predetermined wavelength, An operation determination unit determines that an operation has been performed on the non-contact operation unit if the magnitude of the detection signal is equal to or greater than a determination threshold, The operation determination unit includes a misjudgment suppression unit that suppresses misjudgments, The misjudgment suppression unit increases the judgment threshold if the difference between the magnitude of the detection signal and the judgment threshold during the standby period of the operation is less than the change reference value. The aforementioned misjudgment suppression unit is If the difference is less than the change threshold value, and the magnitude of the detection signal during standby is greater than or equal to the supply interruption threshold, at least one of the following processes is performed: preventing the operation determination unit from performing the operation determination process, and causing the notification unit to notify that the supply of the beverage corresponding to the operation will be interrupted. Beverage dispensing equipment.

7. A non-contact operation unit having an optical sensor that emits detection light of a predetermined wavelength while outputting a detection signal of a magnitude corresponding to the light reception state of the predetermined wavelength, An operation determination unit determines that an operation has been performed on the non-contact operation unit if the magnitude of the detection signal is equal to or greater than a determination threshold, An operation method performed by a false judgment suppression unit that changes the judgment threshold, The misjudgment suppression unit increases the judgment threshold if the difference between the magnitude of the detection signal and the judgment threshold during the standby period of the operation is less than the change reference value. The misjudgment suppression unit changes the judgment threshold to the set upper limit if the difference is less than the change criterion value and the value obtained by adding the first increment value to the judgment threshold is equal to or greater than the set upper limit value of the judgment threshold. When the judgment threshold is changed to the set upper limit, the misjudgment suppression unit causes the notification unit to notify at least one of the following: that there is a possibility of misjudgment of the operation, and that it is urged to block out external light. How to operate.

8. A non-contact operating unit having an optical sensor that emits detection light of a predetermined wavelength and outputs a detection signal of a magnitude corresponding to the light reception state of the light of the predetermined wavelength, An operation determination unit determines that an operation has been performed on the non-contact operation unit if the magnitude of the detection signal is equal to or greater than a determination threshold, A false judgment suppression unit that changes the judgment threshold, An operating method performed by a plurality of non-contact operating units used for step-by-step operations, The misjudgment suppression unit increases the judgment threshold if the difference between the magnitude of the detection signal and the judgment threshold during the standby period of the operation is less than the change reference value. The operation determination unit and the misjudgment suppression unit perform processing based on the detection signal from the non-contact operation unit of the target of operation at each stage of the operation, while not performing processing based on the detection signal from the non-contact operation unit of the target of non-operation. How to operate.

9. A non-contact operating unit having an optical sensor that emits detection light of a predetermined wavelength and outputs a detection signal of a magnitude corresponding to the light reception state of the light of the predetermined wavelength, An operation determination unit determines that an operation has been performed on the non-contact operation unit if the magnitude of the detection signal is equal to or greater than a determination threshold, An operation method performed by a false judgment suppression unit that changes the judgment threshold, The misjudgment suppression unit increases the judgment threshold if the difference between the magnitude of the detection signal and the judgment threshold during the standby period of the operation is less than the change reference value. The light sensor is positioned such that the direction of emission of the detected light and the direction in which the light-receiving surface faces are inclined with respect to the virtual movement trajectory of the user's fingers or an object when the operation is performed. How to operate.

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