Dispensing device, dispensing device control system and control method

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a dispensing device including a housing for containing items to be dispensed, a first locking device for holding a first item to be dispensed in a first predetermined position and capable of releasing the first item to be dispensed from the first predetermined position, and a second locking device for holding a second item to be dispensed, which is sleeved with the first item to be dispensed, in a second predetermined position and capable of releasing the second item to be dispensed held in the second predetermined position. The present disclosure also provides a dispensing device control system and a control method.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a dispensing device, a dispensing device control system, and a control method. Background Technology

[0002] In recent years, with the implementation of garbage sorting, different types of garbage require different garbage bins, and the number of garbage bins used has increased significantly.

[0003] In waste sorting projects, a common practice is to have residents use standardized trash cans and to centrally inspect and record the trash can usage. In practice, the community is equipped with a batch of standardized trash cans, and residents pick up a trash can at a designated location each day, sort and collect their trash at home, and return the trash can to the same location.

[0004] Current methods of distributing trash cans often rely on manual labor, which is very time-consuming. Furthermore, tracking and recording the users of each trash can is even more complex and often difficult to implement.

[0005] Furthermore, the use of trash cans needs to be managed in a self-service manner. Summary of the Invention

[0006] To solve at least one of the above-mentioned technical problems, this disclosure provides a dispensing device, a dispensing device control system, and a control method.

[0007] The dispensing device, dispensing device control system, and control method disclosed herein are implemented through the following technical solutions.

[0008] According to one aspect of this disclosure, a dispensing device is provided, comprising: a housing for receiving an article to be dispensed; a second locking device for holding a second article to be dispensed fitted with a first article to be dispensed in a second predetermined position and capable of releasing the second article to be dispensed held in the second predetermined position; and a first locking device for holding a first article to be dispensed in a first predetermined position and capable of releasing the first article to be dispensed from the first predetermined position.

[0009] According to at least one embodiment of the dispensing device of the present disclosure, an article dispensing outlet is formed on the housing, and the first sequentially dispensable article can be taken out through the article dispensing outlet after being released from the first predetermined position by the first locking device.

[0010] According to at least one embodiment of the dispensing device of the present disclosure, a viewing window is formed on the housing, through which the item to be dispensed inside the housing can be observed.

[0011] According to at least one embodiment of the dispensing device of this disclosure, the second locking device is located above the first locking device, and the second locking device has the same structure as the first locking device.

[0012] According to at least one embodiment of the dispensing device of the present disclosure, the second locking device includes a third clamping part and a fourth clamping part disposed opposite to the third clamping part, the third clamping part and the fourth clamping part being driven to hold the second sequential items to be dispensed or to release the second sequential items to be dispensed.

[0013] According to at least one embodiment of the dispensing device of the present disclosure, the first locking device includes a first clamping part and a second clamping part disposed opposite to the first clamping part, wherein the first clamping part and the second clamping part are driven to hold a first sequence of items to be dispensed or to release the first sequence of items to be dispensed.

[0014] According to at least one embodiment of the dispensing device of this disclosure, the second locking device further includes a third driving unit and a fourth driving unit, the third driving unit being used to drive the third clamping unit, and the fourth driving unit being used to drive the fourth clamping unit, the third driving unit and the fourth driving unit driving the third clamping unit and the fourth clamping unit synchronously.

[0015] According to at least one embodiment of the dispensing device of the present disclosure, the first locking device further includes a first driving unit and a second driving unit, the first driving unit being used to drive the first clamping unit, the second driving unit being used to drive the second clamping unit, and the first driving unit and the second driving unit driving the first clamping unit and the second clamping unit synchronously.

[0016] The dispensing device according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure further includes a control device that controls the locking and unlocking of the second locking device and the first locking device.

[0017] The dispensing device according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure further includes a dispensing device card reader, and the control device is capable of controlling the locking and unlocking of the second locking device and the first locking device based on the card information read by the dispensing device card reader.

[0018] The dispensing device according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure further includes a plurality of casters that enable the dispensing device to move.

[0019] The dispensing device according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure further includes a rechargeable battery and / or a solar panel, such that the dispensing device does not require an external power source during operation.

[0020] According to at least one embodiment of the dispensing device of this disclosure, the control device controls the second locking device and the first locking device to perform the following operations: when the first locking device releases the first sequential item to be dispensed, the second locking device is in a locked state, holding the second sequential item to be dispensed at the second predetermined position; after the first locking device releases the first sequential item to be dispensed, the first locking device returns to the locked state, and the second locking device releases the second sequential item to be dispensed, causing the second sequential item to enter the first predetermined position, become the first sequential item to be dispensed, and be held at the first predetermined position by the first locking device in the locked state; the second locking device returns to the locked state and holds the new second sequential item to be dispensed at the second predetermined position.

[0021] The dispensing device according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure further includes a dispensing device ID information storage unit, which is used to store the ID information of the dispensing device.

[0022] According to at least one embodiment of the dispensing device of the present disclosure, the dispensing device ID information storage unit is a device capable of displaying a QR code.

[0023] According to at least one embodiment of the dispensing device of the present disclosure, the information storage unit of the dispensing device is a QR code disposed on the outer wall of the housing.

[0024] The dispensing apparatus according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure further includes a data transmission unit for transmitting data with a device other than the dispensing apparatus.

[0025] According to at least one embodiment of the dispensing apparatus of this disclosure, the data transmission unit is a Bluetooth module.

[0026] The dispensing device according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure further includes a support frame that supports the second locking device and the first locking device within the housing.

[0027] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a dispensing device control system is provided to control the dispensing device described in any of the above claims, comprising: a server, the server storing dispensing device ID information of a plurality of dispensing devices and storing an item ID information queue of items contained in each dispensing device; and a portable terminal, the portable terminal being capable of reading the dispensing device ID information stored in the dispensing device ID information storage unit of the dispensing device and sending the read dispensing device ID information to the server, the server retrieving the item ID information queue corresponding to the dispensing device ID information based on the dispensing device ID information sent by the portable terminal, binding the item ID information of a first-order item to be dispensed with the user information of the portable terminal, and sending an unlocking command to the portable terminal; the portable terminal sending the unlocking command to a control device of the dispensing device, the control device controlling the first locking device to release the first-order item to be dispensed.

[0028] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a dispensing device control system is provided to control the dispensing device described in any of the above claims, comprising: a server, the server storing dispensing device ID information of multiple dispensing devices and storing an item ID information queue of items contained in each dispensing device; and a card, the card information of which is read by the dispensing device card reader of the dispensing device, the dispensing device sending the dispensing device ID and the card information to the server, the server verifying the user permissions of the user identity information corresponding to the card information and the status of the dispensing device, if the item can be dispensed, the server sending an item dispensing instruction back to the dispensing device via the network, the control device of the dispensing device receiving the item dispensing instruction, and the control device controlling the first locking device to unlock to release the first sequence of items to be dispensed.

[0029] According to at least one embodiment of the dispensing device control system of this disclosure, after the control device controls the first locking device to release the first sequential item to be dispensed from its locked state, the control device controls the second locking device and the first locking device to perform the following operations: the first locking device returns to its locked state, the second locking device releases the second sequential item to be dispensed, such that the second sequential item to be dispensed enters the first predetermined position and becomes the first sequential item to be dispensed, and is held in the first predetermined position by the first locking device in its locked state; the second locking device returns to its locked state and holds the new second sequential item to be dispensed in the second predetermined position.

[0030] According to at least one embodiment of the dispensing device control system of this disclosure, the unlocking command is sent to the control device via Bluetooth or a wireless communication network.

[0031] According to at least one embodiment of the dispensing device control system of the present disclosure, the control device is a microcontroller or an FPGA.

[0032] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a method for controlling a dispensing device is provided, controlling the dispensing device described in any of the above claims, comprising: storing dispensing device ID information of a plurality of dispensing devices and an item ID information queue of items contained in each dispensing device in a server; based on the dispensing device ID information stored in the dispensing device ID information storage unit of the dispensing device read and sent by a portable terminal, the server retrieves the item ID information queue corresponding to the dispensing device ID information, binds the item ID information of a first-order item to be dispensed with the user information of the portable terminal, and sends an unlocking command to the portable terminal; based on the unlocking command sent by the portable terminal, the control device of the dispensing device controls the first locking device to release the first-order item to be dispensed.

[0033] According to at least one embodiment of the dispensing device control method of this disclosure, after the control device controls the first locking device to release the first sequential item to be dispensed from its locked state, the control device controls the second locking device and the first locking device to perform the following operations: the first locking device returns to its locked state, the second locking device releases the second sequential item to be dispensed, such that the second sequential item to be dispensed enters the first predetermined position and becomes the first sequential item to be dispensed, and is held in the first predetermined position by the first locking device in its locked state; the second locking device returns to its locked state and holds the new second sequential item to be dispensed in the second predetermined position.

[0034] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a method for controlling a dispensing device is provided, which loads items onto the dispensing device described in any of the above claims, comprising: S1, the dispensing device is connected to an item loading device outside the dispensing device via a data transmission unit; S2, the item loading device reads the ID of the dispensing device and enters an item loading working state; S3, the item loading device reads the ID of an item to be loaded, places the item into the dispensing device, and uploads the dispensing device ID + item ID as a data entry to a server; and S4, the server updates the item queue corresponding to the dispensing device ID it maintains, and adds the newly added item ID to the end of the queue.

[0035] The dispensing device control method according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure further includes: S5, repeating steps S3-S4 until the dispensing device is full or stops dispensing items. Attached Figure Description

[0036] The accompanying drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the description thereof, serve to explain the principles of the present disclosure. These drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the present disclosure and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification.

[0037] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of a dispensing device (barrel dispenser) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] Figure 2 This is a perspective structural schematic diagram of a dispensing device (dispensing barrel device) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0039] Figure 3 This is an external side view of a dispensing device (dispensing barrel device) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0040] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the installation structure of the locking device of a dispensing device (dispensing barrel machine device) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0041] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the locking device of a dispensing device (dispensing drum machine) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0042] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the control principle of a dispensing device (dispensing machine device) control system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0043] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0044] 100 dispensing device

[0045] 101 housing

[0046] Item 102 exit

[0047] 103 Second Locking Device

[0048] 1031 Third Clamping Section

[0049] 1032 Fourth Clamping Section

[0050] 1033 Third Drive Unit

[0051] 10331 drive lever

[0052] 1034 Fourth Drive Unit

[0053] 1035 Third Clamping Part Housing

[0054] 1036 Fourth Clamping Part Housing

[0055] 104 First locking device

[0056] 1041 First Clamping Section

[0057] 1042 Second Clamping Section

[0058] 1043 First Drive Unit

[0059] 1044 Second Drive Unit

[0060] 1045 First clamping part housing

[0061] 1046 Second clamping part housing

[0062] 105 View

[0063] 106 Support Frame

[0064] 107 Issuance Device ID Information Storage Department

[0065] 108 Data Transmission Department

[0066] 110 control device

[0067] 200 portable terminals

[0068] 300 server. Detailed Implementation

[0069] The present disclosure will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure. Furthermore, it should be noted that, for ease of description, only the parts relevant to the present disclosure are shown in the accompanying drawings.

[0070] It should be noted that, where there is no conflict, the embodiments and features described in this disclosure can be combined with each other. The technical solutions of this disclosure will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments.

[0071] Unless otherwise stated, the exemplary implementations / embodiments shown are to be understood as providing exemplary features of various details that provide ways in which the technical concepts of this disclosure can be implemented in practice. Therefore, unless otherwise stated, the features of various implementations / embodiments may be additionally combined, separated, interchanged and / or rearranged without departing from the technical concepts of this disclosure.

[0072] The use of crosshairs and / or shading in the accompanying drawings is generally used to clarify the boundaries between adjacent components. Thus, unless otherwise stated, the presence or absence of crosshairs or shading does not convey or indicate any preference or requirement for the specific material, material properties, dimensions, proportions, commonalities between the illustrated components, or any other characteristics, properties, etc., of the components. Furthermore, in the accompanying drawings, the dimensions and relative dimensions of components may be exaggerated for clarity and / or descriptive purposes. When exemplary embodiments can be implemented differently, a specific process sequence may be performed in a different order than that described. For example, two consecutively described processes may be performed substantially simultaneously or in the reverse order of their description. Furthermore, the same reference numerals denote the same components.

[0073] When a component is referred to as being "on" or "above" another component, "connected to," or "joined to" another component, the component may be directly on, directly connected to, or directly joined to the other component, or there may be intermediate components. However, when a component is referred to as being "directly on" another component, "directly connected to," or "directly joined to" another component, there are no intermediate components. Therefore, the term "connection" can refer to a physical connection, an electrical connection, etc., and may or may not have intermediate components.

[0074] For descriptive purposes, this disclosure may use spatial relative terms such as “below,” “under,” “below,” “down,” “above,” “above,” “higher,” and “side (e.g., in a “sidewall”)” to describe the relationship between one component and another component as shown in the accompanying drawings. In addition to the orientations depicted in the drawings, the spatial relative terms are also intended to encompass different orientations of the device during use, operation, and / or manufacture. For example, if the device in the drawings is flipped, a component described as “below” or “under” another component or feature would subsequently be positioned “above” said other component or feature. Thus, the exemplary term “below” can encompass both “above” and “below” orientations. Furthermore, the device may be otherwise positioned (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), thus interpreting the spatial relative descriptive terms used herein accordingly.

[0075] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms “a” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well. Furthermore, when the terms “comprising” and / or “including” and variations thereof are used in this specification, it indicates the presence of the stated features, integrals, steps, operations, parts, components, and / or groups thereof, but does not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integrals, steps, operations, parts, components, and / or groups thereof. It should also be noted that, as used herein, the terms “substantially,” “about,” and other similar terms are used as approximate terms rather than as terms of degree, thus explaining the inherent biases in measurements, calculated values, and / or provided values ​​that would be recognized by one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0076] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of a dispensing device 100 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2 This is a perspective structural diagram of a dispensing device 100 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 3 This is an external side view of a dispensing device 100 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the installation structure of the locking device of the dispensing device 100 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the locking device of a dispensing device 100 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0077] The following text combines Figures 1 to 5 The dispensing device 100 disclosed herein will be described in detail.

[0078] like Figures 1 to 5 As shown, the dispensing device 100 includes: a housing 101 for containing items to be dispensed; a second locking device 103 for holding a second item to be dispensed that is fitted with a first item to be dispensed in a second predetermined position, and for being able to release the second item to be dispensed that is held in the second predetermined position; and a first locking device 104 for holding a first item to be dispensed in a first predetermined position, and for being able to release the first item to be dispensed from the first predetermined position.

[0079] Multiple items form a queue of items to be distributed in the dispensing device disclosed herein. The queue of items to be distributed falls naturally under the action of gravity, ensuring the continuity of item distribution.

[0080] The shell 101 can be a rectangular shell, and its upper end can have a shell cover. Figures 1 to 5 (Not shown in the image).

[0081] Preferably, the housing cover and housing 101 can be locked together by a locking device, such as a mechanical lock, to prevent items in the dispensing device 100 from being removed in an abnormal manner. Normal item retrieval can be achieved by the item-loading device controlling the dispensing device to unlock via Bluetooth, or by a staff member using a dedicated unlocking program to control the dispensing device to unlock via Bluetooth.

[0082] The items to be dispatched can be trash cans, safety helmets, or other stackable items.

[0083] For example, Figure 1 The dispensing device 100 dispenses trash cans, meaning the items to be dispensed are trash cans, which can hold various types of trash, especially kitchen waste.

[0084] Preferably, the items to be shipped are equipped with an item ID information storage device, such as a QR code or RFID chip.

[0085] The dispensing device 100 of this embodiment dispenses items to be dispensed through the cooperation of the second locking device 103 and the first locking device 104.

[0086] The first predetermined position is located below the second predetermined position. The first predetermined position is at a predetermined distance from the bottom of the dispensing device 100.

[0087] The first item to be sent is the item at the bottom, and the second item to be sent is the item immediately next to the first item to be sent.

[0088] Multiple items to be distributed are placed in the dispensing device. Taking trash cans as an example, multiple trash cans are in the open position so that multiple trash cans can be inserted into one another.

[0089] According to a preferred embodiment of the present disclosure, an article dispensing outlet 102 is formed on the housing 101 of the dispensing device 100. After the first sequential article to be dispensed is released from the first predetermined position by the first locking device 104, it can be taken out through the article dispensing outlet 102.

[0090] According to a preferred embodiment of this disclosure, a viewing window 105 is formed on the housing 101 of the dispensing device 100. Through the viewing window 105, the status of the items to be dispensed inside the housing 101 can be observed. For example, users or staff can observe the number of remaining items in the dispensing device 100 through the viewing window 105. Or, if the dispensing device malfunctions, staff can observe or read the ID of the remaining items to confirm the abnormal situation.

[0091] In the above embodiments, the second locking device 103 is located above the first locking device 104, and the second locking device 103 has the same structure as the first locking device 104.

[0092] According to a preferred embodiment of the present disclosure, the second locking device 103 of the dispensing device 100 includes a third clamping part 1031 and a fourth clamping part 1032 disposed opposite to the third clamping part 1031. The third clamping part 1031 and the fourth clamping part 1032 are driven to hold the second sequential items to be dispensed or to release the second sequential items to be dispensed.

[0093] According to a preferred embodiment of the present disclosure, the first locking device 104 of the dispensing device 100 includes a first clamping part 1041 and a second clamping part 1042 disposed opposite to the first clamping part 1041. The first clamping part 1041 and the second clamping part 1042 are driven to hold the first order of items to be dispensed or to release the first order of items to be dispensed.

[0094] According to a preferred embodiment of the present disclosure, the second locking device 103 further includes a third driving part 1033 and a fourth driving part 1034. The third driving part 1033 is used to drive the third clamping part 1031, and the fourth driving part 1034 is used to drive the fourth clamping part 1032. The third driving part 1033 and the fourth driving part 1034 drive the third clamping part 1031 and the fourth clamping part 1032 simultaneously.

[0095] According to a preferred embodiment of the present disclosure, the first locking device 104 further includes a first driving part 1043 and a second driving part 1044. The first driving part 1043 is used to drive the first clamping part 1041, and the second driving part 1044 is used to drive the second clamping part 1042. The first driving part 1043 and the second driving part 1044 drive the first clamping part 1041 and the second clamping part 1042 simultaneously.

[0096] Figure 5 The structure of the third clamping part 1031 and the third driving part 1033 of the second locking device 103 is shown as an example.

[0097] The following text combines Figure 4 and Figure 5 The locking device of this disclosure will be described in detail.

[0098] According to a preferred embodiment of the present disclosure, the third clamping part 1031 is connected to the drive rod 10311 of the third driving part 1033, and the third driving part 1033 drives the third clamping part 1031 through the drive rod 10311. The drive can be an extension operation or a pull-back operation.

[0099] Preferably, the third clamping part 1031 is disposed within the third clamping part housing 1035. The third clamping part 1031 can move relative to the third clamping part housing 1035 under the drive of the third driving part 1033. The third clamping part housing 1035 has a shape matching the third clamping part 1031 and can be detachably fixedly mounted on the outside of the third driving part 1033. The third clamping part 1031 includes at least two wheels (…). Figure 5 The diagram shows four wheels (arranged symmetrically in pairs). By providing at least two wheels, the third clamping part 1031 moves more smoothly relative to the third clamping part housing 1035.

[0100] The end face of the third clamping part 1031 used for clamping the item is an arc-shaped end face.

[0101] Preferably, the fourth clamping part 1032 is disposed within the fourth clamping part housing 1036. The fourth clamping part 1032 can move relative to the fourth clamping part housing 1036 under the drive of the fourth driving part 1034. The fourth clamping part housing 1036 has a shape that matches the fourth clamping part 1032 and can be detachably fixedly installed on the outside of the fourth driving part 1034. The fourth clamping part 1032 includes at least two wheels (preferably four wheels, symmetrically arranged in pairs). By providing at least two wheels, the relative movement of the fourth clamping part 1032 relative to the fourth clamping part housing 1036 is smoother.

[0102] The end face of the fourth clamping part 1032 for clamping the item is an arc-shaped end face.

[0103] Preferably, the first clamping part 1041 is disposed within the first clamping part housing 1045. The first clamping part 1041 can move relative to the first clamping part housing 1045 under the drive of the first driving part 1043. The first clamping part housing 1045 has a shape that matches the first clamping part 1041. The third clamping part housing 1045 can be detachably and fixedly installed on the outside of the first driving part 1043. The first clamping part 1041 includes at least two wheels (preferably four wheels, symmetrically arranged in pairs). By providing at least two wheels, the relative movement of the first clamping part 1041 relative to the first clamping part housing 1045 is smoother.

[0104] The end face of the first clamping part 1041 for clamping the item is an arc-shaped end face.

[0105] Preferably, the second clamping part 1042 is disposed within the second clamping part housing 1046. The second clamping part 1042 can move relative to the second clamping part housing 1046 under the drive of the second driving part 1044. The second clamping part housing 1046 has a shape that matches the second clamping part 1042 and can be detachably fixedly installed on the outside of the second driving part 1044. The second clamping part 1042 includes at least two wheels (preferably four wheels, symmetrically arranged in pairs). By providing at least two wheels, the relative movement of the second clamping part 1042 relative to the second clamping part housing 1046 is smoother.

[0106] The end face of the second clamping part 1042 for clamping the item is an arc-shaped end face.

[0107] Preferably, the dispensing device 100 further includes a support frame 106, which supports the second locking device 103 and the first locking device 104 within the housing 101.

[0108] According to a preferred embodiment of the present disclosure, the dispensing device 100 further includes a control device 110, which controls the locking and unlocking of the second locking device 103 and the first locking device 104.

[0109] According to a preferred embodiment of the present disclosure, the dispensing device 100 further includes a dispensing device card reader, and the control device 110 is capable of controlling the locking and unlocking of the second locking device 103 and the first locking device 104 based on the card information read by the dispensing device card reader.

[0110] According to a preferred embodiment of this disclosure, the dispensing device 100 further includes a plurality of casters, which enable the dispensing device 100 to move.

[0111] According to a preferred embodiment of this disclosure, the dispensing device 100 further includes a rechargeable battery and / or a solar panel, so that the dispensing device 100 does not require an external power source when in operation.

[0112] Preferably, the control device 110 controls the second locking device 103 and the first locking device 104 to perform the following operations:

[0113] When the first locking device 104 releases the first sequential item to be dispatched, the second locking device 103 is in a locked state, keeping the second sequential item to be dispatched in a second predetermined position.

[0114] After the first locking device 104 releases the first sequential item to be sent, the first locking device 104 returns to the locked state, and the second locking device 103 releases the second sequential item to be sent, so that the second sequential item to be sent enters the first predetermined position and becomes the first sequential item to be sent, and is held in the first predetermined position by the first locking device 104 which is in the locked state.

[0115] The second locking device 103 returns to the locked state and holds the new second-order items to be dispatched in the second predetermined position.

[0116] Preferably, such as Figure 3 As shown, the dispensing device 100 also includes a dispensing device ID information storage unit 107, which is used to store the ID information of the dispensing device.

[0117] The ID information storage unit 107 for the issuing device can be a device capable of displaying a QR code, such as a display screen.

[0118] The information storage unit 107 of the dispensing device can also be a QR code affixed to the outer wall of the housing 101. For example, the QR code can be affixed to the outer wall of the housing 101 by means of plastic sealing.

[0119] According to a preferred embodiment of the present disclosure, the dispensing device 100 further includes a data transmission unit 108, which is used to transmit data with devices other than the dispensing device.

[0120] The data transmission unit 108 can be a Bluetooth module, or it can be, for example, a USB device, a wired serial port, or a wireless serial port. The data transmission unit 108 is preferably a Bluetooth module.

[0121] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the control principle of a dispensing device control system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0122] like Figure 6 As shown, the dispensing device control system controls the dispensing device 100 of any of the above embodiments, including:

[0123] Server 300 stores the dispensing device IDs of multiple dispensing devices, and a queue of item IDs for the items contained in each dispensing device (corresponding sequentially to the physically contained items); and

[0124] The portable terminal 200 can read the dispensing device ID information stored in the dispensing device ID information storage unit 107 of the dispensing device 100, and send the read dispensing device ID information to the server 300. The server 300 retrieves the item ID information queue corresponding to the dispensing device ID information based on the dispensing device ID information sent by the portable terminal 200, binds the item ID information of the first order of items to be dispensed with the user information of the portable terminal 300, and sends an unlocking command to the portable terminal 200. The portable terminal 200 sends the unlocking command to the control device 110 of the dispensing device 100 (preferably, the portable terminal 200 sends the unlocking command to the control device 110 of the dispensing device 100 via the data transmission unit 108 of the dispensing device 100). The control device 110 controls the first locking device 104 to release the locking state to release the first order of items to be dispensed.

[0125] For example, the control flow of the dispensing device control system is as follows:

[0126] 1. The portable terminal 200 (e.g., a user's mobile phone) uses a program (app or mini-program) to scan the QR code on the dispensing device 100, read the dispensing device ID, generate an item retrieval request and send it to the server. At this time, the Bluetooth module of the portable terminal 200 (e.g., a user's mobile phone) automatically connects with the Bluetooth module of the dispensing device 100.

[0127] 2: Server 300 verifies the user's permissions and the status of the dispensing device 100. If the item can be dispensed (e.g., the user's permissions are verified and the dispensing device 100 is in a dispensing state), then server 300 sends a dispensing instruction back to portable terminal 200 (user's mobile phone) via the network (e.g., wireless communication network, 4G network, etc.).

[0128] 3: The portable terminal 200 sends the item dispensing instruction to the dispensing device 100 via Bluetooth module.

[0129] 4. The control device 110 of the dispensing device 100 receives the dispensing instruction, controls the locking device to unlock, and completes the dispensing process. If the dispensing is successful, the portable terminal 200 returns a successful dispensing notification to the server 300, and the server 300 updates the item queue data it maintains in the dispensing device 100. If the dispensing fails, the item queue data in the dispensing device 100 on the server 300 is not updated, and the user can use the portable terminal 200 to scan the code again to receive the item, or abandon the dispensing process.

[0130] According to a preferred embodiment of this disclosure, after the control device 110 controls the first locking device 104 to release the first sequential item to be dispatched, the control device 110 controls the second locking device 103 and the first locking device 104 to perform the following operations: the first locking device 104 returns to the locked state, the second locking device 103 releases the second sequential item to be dispatched, so that the second sequential item to be dispatched enters the first predetermined position and becomes the first sequential item to be dispatched and is held in the first predetermined position by the first locking device 104 which is in the locked state; the second locking device 103 returns to the locked state and holds the new second sequential item to be dispatched in the second predetermined position.

[0131] Preferably, the unlocking command is sent to the control device 110 via Bluetooth or a wireless communication network.

[0132] The control device can be a microcontroller or an FPGA, etc.

[0133] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the status information of the dispensing device (remaining battery power, number of remaining items, ID of the current first item to be dispensed, etc.) is maintained on a server. After scanning the ID of the dispensing device, the portable terminal 200 sends the ID of the dispensing device and the item retrieval request to the server 300. The server 300 returns the corresponding control command (unlock command or unlock command) to the dispensing device 100. The control device 110 of the dispensing device 100 controls the first locking device and the second locking device to perform corresponding actions. The control device 110 of the dispensing device 100 sends the status of the dispensed item (success or failure) and the status information of the dispensing device to the server 300 via the portable terminal (i.e., through the network of the portable terminal). The server 300 updates the status information of the dispensing device.

[0134] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the dispensing device can enable users to swipe cards to retrieve items by setting up a card reader. For example, users without mobile phones or those who have difficulty operating mobile phones (such as the elderly and children) can retrieve items by swiping their cards.

[0135] Card information can be linked to user identity information in the following way: Specifically, user identity information can be linked to one or more cards (such as contactless IC cards, insert IC cards, etc.) through a smartphone used to retrieve items at home.

[0136] The binding process is as follows: The portable terminal 200 (e.g., a mobile phone) connects to the issuing device 100 through the data transmission unit 108. The portable terminal 200 enters the card adding state (cards can be added by operating an app or mini-program). The card reader of the issuing device reads the card information. The issuing device 100 sends the read card information (e.g., card number) to the server 300 via the portable terminal 200. The server 300 adds the card information under the user's identity information, thus realizing the binding of user identity information and card information.

[0137] When using a card to retrieve an item, the card reader of the dispensing device 100 reads the card information. The dispensing device 100 sends the dispensing device ID and card information to the server 300 via the data transmission unit 108 (e.g., a wireless network communication module). The server 300 verifies the user's identity information corresponding to the card information and the status of the dispensing device 100. If the item can be dispensed (e.g., user authorization verification is successful and the dispensing device 100 is in a dispensing-ready state), the server 300 sends a dispensing instruction back to the dispensing device 100 via a network (e.g., a wireless communication network, 4G network, etc.). The control device 110 of the dispensing device 100 receives the dispensing instruction and controls the locking device to unlock, completing the dispensing process. If the dispensing is successful, the dispensing device 100 returns a successful dispensing message to the server 300, and the server 300 updates the item queue data it maintains in the dispensing device 100. If the dispensing fails, the item queue data in the server 300 for that dispensing device 100 is not updated, and the user can either swipe their card again to retrieve the item or abandon the request.

[0138] Those skilled in the art will understand that the data transmission unit 108 of the dispensing device can be a separate Bluetooth module or a separate wireless network communication module. Preferably, the data transmission unit 108 of the dispensing device includes both a Bluetooth module and a wireless network communication module.

[0139] This disclosure also provides a method for controlling the dispensing device.

[0140] One embodiment of the dispensing device control method disclosed herein controls the dispensing device 100 of any of the above claims, comprising:

[0141] The device ID information of multiple dispensing devices and the item ID information of the items contained in each dispensing device are queued and stored on server 300.

[0142] Based on the dispensing device ID information stored in the dispensing device ID information storage unit 107 of the dispensing device 100 read and sent by the portable terminal 200, the server 300 retrieves the item ID information queue corresponding to the dispensing device ID information, binds the item ID information of the first order of items to be dispensed with the user information of the portable terminal 300, and sends the unlocking command to the portable terminal 200.

[0143] Based on the unlocking command sent by the portable terminal 200, the control device 110 of the dispensing device 100 controls the first locking device 104 to release the first order of items to be dispensed.

[0144] Preferably, after the control device 110 controls the first locking device 104 to release the first sequence of items to be dispatched, the control device 110 controls the second locking device 103 and the first locking device 104 to perform the following operations:

[0145] The first locking device 104 returns to the locked state, and the second locking device 103 releases the second sequential item to be sent, so that the second sequential item to be sent enters the first predetermined position to become the first sequential item to be sent and is held in the first predetermined position by the first locking device 104 which is in the locked state.

[0146] The second locking device 103 returns to the locked state and holds the new second-order items to be dispatched in the second predetermined position.

[0147] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, a method for controlling a dispensing device is provided, comprising:

[0148] S1. The dispensing device is connected to the loading device outside the dispensing device via a data transmission unit;

[0149] S2. The loading equipment reads the ID of the dispensing device and enters the loading operation state.

[0150] S3. The item loading device reads the ID of an item to be loaded, places the item into the dispensing device, and uploads the dispensing device ID + item ID as a data entry to the server; and

[0151] S4. The server updates the item queue corresponding to the distribution device ID it maintains, and adds the newly added item ID to the end of the queue.

[0152] S5. Repeat steps S3-S4 until the dispensing device is full or stops dispensing items.

[0153] Preferably, the issuing device ID is stored not only on the issuing device ID information storage unit 107 (e.g., a QR code and / or an RFID chip), but also within the control device 110.

[0154] By way of example, the dispensing device 100 of this disclosure dispenses articles through the following steps:

[0155] 1: The dispensing device 100 connects to the loading device (which can be a dedicated loading device such as a workbench, or a loading mobile phone that uses a program to load items) via the data transmission unit 108 (e.g., Bluetooth / USB / serial port) to load items.

[0156] 2: The loading equipment reads the ID of the dispensing device 100 and enters the loading operation state.

[0157] 3: The item loading device reads the ID of an item to be loaded, places the item into the dispensing device 100, and uploads the dispensing device ID + item ID as a data entry to the server 300.

[0158] 4: Server 300 updates the item queue corresponding to the distribution device ID it maintains, adding the newly added item ID to the end of the queue.

[0159] 5: Repeat steps 3-4 until the dispensing device 100 is full or stops dispensing items.

[0160] 6: Disconnect the dispensing device 100 from the loading device.

[0161] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment / mode," "some embodiments / modes," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment / mode or example is included in at least one embodiment / mode or example of this disclosure. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment / mode or example. Moreover, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments / modes or examples. Furthermore, without contradiction, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments / modes or examples described in this specification, as well as the features of different embodiments / modes or examples.

[0162] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of that feature. In the description of this disclosure, "a plurality of" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0163] Those skilled in the art should understand that the above embodiments are merely for illustrating the present disclosure and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure. Those skilled in the art can make other changes or modifications based on the above disclosure, and these changes or modifications still fall within the scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A dispensing device, characterized in that, include: A housing for containing items to be dispatched, including a trash can; A first locking device is used to hold a first sequence of items to be dispatched in a first predetermined position and is capable of releasing the first sequence of items to be dispatched from the first predetermined position. The second locking device is used to hold the second sequential item to be dispatched, which is fitted into the first sequential item to be dispatched, in a second predetermined position, and is capable of releasing the second sequential item to be dispatched held in the second predetermined position. Control device; The card reader of the dispensing device, and the control device are capable of controlling the locking and unlocking of the second locking device and the first locking device based on the information of the card read by the card reader of the dispensing device; The first locking device includes a first clamping part and a second clamping part disposed opposite to the first clamping part. The first clamping part and the second clamping part are driven to hold the first order of items to be sent or to release the first order of items to be sent. The second locking device includes a third clamping part and a fourth clamping part disposed opposite to the third clamping part, wherein the third clamping part and the fourth clamping part are driven to hold the second sequential item to be dispatched or to release the second sequential item to be dispatched. The first clamping part, the second clamping part, the third clamping part and the fourth clamping part each include at least two wheels; The first clamping part is disposed inside the housing of the first clamping part, and the first clamping part can move relative to the housing of the first clamping part under the drive of the first driving part; The second clamping part is disposed inside the housing of the second clamping part, and the second clamping part can move relative to the housing of the second clamping part under the drive of the second driving part; The third clamping part is disposed inside the housing of the third clamping part, and the third clamping part can move relative to the housing of the third clamping part under the drive of the third driving part; The fourth clamping part is disposed inside the housing of the fourth clamping part, and the fourth clamping part can move relative to the housing of the fourth clamping part under the drive of the fourth driving part.

2. The dispensing device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The housing has an item dispensing outlet, and after the first sequential item is released from the first predetermined position by the first locking device, it can be taken out through the item dispensing outlet.

3. The dispensing device according to claim 1, characterized in that, A viewing window is formed on the housing, through which the items to be dispatched inside the housing can be observed.

4. The dispensing device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second locking device is located above the first locking device, and the second locking device has the same structure as the first locking device.

5. The dispensing device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second locking device further includes a third driving unit and a fourth driving unit. The third driving unit is used to drive the third clamping unit, and the fourth driving unit is used to drive the fourth clamping unit. The third driving unit and the fourth driving unit drive the third clamping unit and the fourth clamping unit synchronously.

6. The dispensing device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first locking device further includes a first driving unit and a second driving unit. The first driving unit is used to drive the first clamping unit, and the second driving unit is used to drive the second clamping unit. The first driving unit and the second driving unit drive the first clamping unit and the second clamping unit synchronously.

7. The dispensing device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, It also includes multiple casters that enable the dispensing device to move.

8. The dispensing device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, It also includes a rechargeable battery and / or a solar panel, so that the dispensing device does not require an external power source when in operation.

9. The dispensing device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The control device controls the second locking device and the first locking device to perform the following operations: When the first locking device releases the first sequential item to be dispatched, the second locking device is in a locked state, keeping the second sequential item to be dispatched in the second predetermined position. After the first locking device releases the first sequential item to be dispatched, the first locking device returns to the locked state, and the second locking device releases the second sequential item to be dispatched, so that the second sequential item to be dispatched enters the first predetermined position, becomes the first sequential item to be dispatched, and is held in the first predetermined position by the first locking device in the locked state. The second locking device returns to the locked state and holds the new second-order items to be dispatched in the second predetermined position.

10. The dispensing device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, It also includes a dispensing device ID information storage unit, which is used to store the ID information of the dispensing device.

11. The dispensing device according to claim 10, characterized in that, The ID information storage unit of the issuing device is a device capable of displaying QR codes.

12. The dispensing device according to claim 10, characterized in that, The information storage unit of the dispensing device is a QR code set on the outer wall of the housing.

13. The dispensing device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, It also includes a data transmission unit, which is used to transmit data with devices other than the dispensing device.

14. The dispensing device according to claim 13, characterized in that, The data transmission unit is a Bluetooth module.

15. The dispensing device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, It also includes a support frame that supports the second locking device and the first locking device within the housing.

16. A dispensing device control system for controlling the dispensing device according to any one of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that, include: The server stores dispensing device ID information for multiple dispensing devices, and also stores a queue of item ID information for the items contained in each dispensing device. as well as A portable terminal is provided, capable of reading the dispensing device ID information stored in the dispensing device ID information storage unit of the dispensing device, and sending the read dispensing device ID information to the server. The server retrieves the item ID information queue corresponding to the dispensing device ID information based on the dispensing device ID information sent by the portable terminal, binds the item ID information of the first order of items to be dispensed with the user information of the portable terminal, and sends an unlocking command to the portable terminal. The portable terminal sends the unlocking command to the control device of the dispensing device, and the control device controls the first locking device to release the first order of items to be dispensed.

17. A dispensing device control system for controlling the dispensing device according to any one of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that, include: The server stores dispensing device ID information for multiple dispensing devices, and also stores a queue of item ID information for the items contained in each dispensing device; and The card information of the card is read by the card reader of the dispensing device. The dispensing device sends the dispensing device ID and the card information to the server. The server verifies the user's identity information corresponding to the card information and the status of the dispensing device. If the item can be dispensed, the server sends an item dispensing instruction back to the dispensing device via the network. The control device of the dispensing device receives the item dispensing instruction and controls the first locking device to unlock to release the first batch of items to be dispensed.

18. The dispensing device control system according to claim 16 or 17, characterized in that, After the control device controls the first locking device to release the first sequence of items to be dispatched, the control device controls the second locking device and the first locking device to perform the following operations: The first locking device returns to the locked state, and the second locking device releases the second sequential item to be dispatched, so that the second sequential item to be dispatched enters the first predetermined position and becomes the first sequential item to be dispatched and is held in the first predetermined position by the first locking device in the locked state. The second locking device returns to the locked state and holds the new second-order items to be dispatched in the second predetermined position.

19. The dispensing device control system according to claim 16 or 17, characterized in that, The unlocking command is sent to the control device via Bluetooth or a wireless communication network.

20. The dispensing device control system according to claim 16 or 17, characterized in that, The control device is a microcontroller or an FPGA.

21. A method for controlling a dispensing device, comprising controlling the dispensing device according to any one of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that, include: The device ID information of multiple dispensing devices and the item ID information of the items contained in each dispensing device are stored in a queue on the server; Based on the dispensing device ID information stored in the dispensing device ID information storage unit read and sent by the portable terminal, the server retrieves the item ID information queue corresponding to the dispensing device ID information, binds the item ID information of the first order of items to be dispensed with the user information of the portable terminal, and sends the unlocking command to the portable terminal. Based on the unlocking command sent by the portable terminal, the control device of the dispensing device controls the first locking device to release the first sequence of items to be dispensed.

22. The dispensing device control method according to claim 21, characterized in that, After the control device controls the first locking device to release the first sequence of items to be dispatched, the control device controls the second locking device and the first locking device to perform the following operations: The first locking device returns to the locked state, and the second locking device releases the second sequential item to be dispatched, so that the second sequential item to be dispatched enters the first predetermined position and becomes the first sequential item to be dispatched and is held in the first predetermined position by the first locking device in the locked state. The second locking device returns to the locked state and holds the new second-order items to be dispatched in the second predetermined position.

23. A method for controlling a dispensing device, comprising loading articles onto the dispensing device according to any one of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that, include: S1. The dispensing device is connected to the loading device outside the dispensing device via a data transmission unit; S2. The loading equipment reads the ID of the dispensing device and enters the loading operation state. S3. The item loading device reads the ID of an item to be loaded, places the item into the dispensing device, and uploads the dispensing device ID + item ID as a data entry to the server; and S4. The server updates the item queue corresponding to the distribution device ID it maintains, and adds the newly added item ID to the end of the queue.

24. The dispensing device control method according to claim 23, characterized in that, Also includes: S5. Repeat steps S3-S4 until the dispensing device is full or stops dispensing items.

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